Our elves are already busy

11.06.2014 - Guest Periods, Our Programs

You may be surprised to know that we are making preparations now for Christmas at Kanuga. Ricky Varnadore, Kanuga’s director of property, says he has pulled together his list of what to order from a local tree farm for the Christmas season: 36 fresh-cut Christmas trees, 30 fresh evergreen wreaths and 100 feet of evergreen garland.

“We like to order from Grandy Mountain Christmas Tree Farm in Cashiers,” said Varnadore. “They cut them right there and load them up for us. We like getting the trees from a local farm, because you know they’re fresh and will last.”

As you might expect, the trees are destined to go in gathering spaces such as the Johnson Fireplace Lounge and Dining Halls in mid-December. What’s unusual and special at Kanuga during Christmas Guest Period, though, is that each Historic Cottage and Guest House will be outfitted with a fresh-cut Christmas tree. Guests at the Inn are not left out—each floor has a fresh tree waiting to be decorated when they arrive.

“Lights are provided for the trees, but guests are allowed to bring their own ornaments to decorate the trees,” said Varnadore. “That way, the tree is unique to the guest staying with us.”

Many of the wreaths and garland will be used for the traditional Hanging of the Greens in the Chapel of the Transfiguration. This is an annual tradition for those staying during Christmas Guest Period when guests gather in the Chapel several days before Christmas and decorate it, with the support of Kanuga’s staff.

Christmas Guest Period at Kanuga, Dec. 20–26, is an all-inclusive Christmas getaway that includes worship, decorating Christmas trees, Hanging of the Greens in the Chapel of the Transfiguration, visits with Santa, delivering gifts to local families in need, Christmas artisan workshops, and much more. Learn more about Christmas Guest Period.