Decorating, baking, entertaining, shopping— the holiday season is full of fun family activities that bring joy into our hearts. With information on festive happenings in the community, a touch of nostalgia, seasonal traditions, and more, the 33rd Annual Holiday Gift Guide is sure to help get you into the holiday spirit.
This special guide is full of ideas for the perfect gift, mouth-watering recipes, and general holiday information. We hope that it adds a bit more cheer to your holiday season. So go ahead and pour a cup of hot cocoa, turn on your favorite Christmas music, and enjoy the Tryon Daily Bulletin’s 33rd Annual Holiday Gift Guide. From our family to yours, Happy Holidays!
ON THE COVER:
Step into the charming world of Tryon Antique Mall & Marketplace, nestled in the scenic foothills of Western North Carolina—a delightful destination for lovers of history, style, and discovery. Located at 1005 S Trade St., in Tryon, this expansive 26,000-square-foot space welcomes you with more than 500 rented spaces featuring well over 250 dealers.
Open daily, you’ll find hours of operation Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and on Sundays from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.—the perfect schedule for planning both a quick stop or a relaxed outing. Here you will find a treasure trove of curiosities: think antiques and vintage gems, mid-century modern pieces, primitives, handcrafted artisan goods, and handpicked new arrivals that mingle seamlessly with the old. The atmosphere invites relaxed browsing, and whether you’re hunting for that perfect gift, a statement piece for your home, or simply exploring for inspiration, you’re in for a treat.
Accessibility and comfort are part of the experience: plenty of parking, clean restrooms, and wheelchair/ scooter-friendly pathways allow you to take your time and enjoy the hunt.
If your group is touring the region, the venue welcomes bus groups, church outings, and recreational clubs—making it more than just a shopping stop, but an outing in itself.
Set against the backdrop of a beautiful drive through Tryon’s scenic surroundings, the Antique Mall invites visitors to make a day of it. Whether you pop in for five minutes or spend an afternoon exploring every hidden nook, you’ll find friendly dealers, an eclectic selection, and the kind of variety that makes browsing fun rather than stressful. The welcoming ambiance pairs nicely with the nearby restaurants and lodging options, making it a convenient stop on your way or a destination in its own right.
Discover something special today at Tryon Antique Mall & Marketplace, where every visit uncovers a new story waiting to be told.
Genral Manager
Jeff Allison Marketing
Lynn Cromer
Stacey Cullen
Designer
Zeal Kadhikhaye
Distribution
Jamie Lewis
Austin Heffner
Administration
Jen Sattler
Local parades, strolls, and more!
A Touch of Nostalgia
We visit with members of the community to hear about their favorite holiday recollections
Letters to Santa What’s on your Christmas list?
Where to Find the Perfect Gift
From art lovers to the equine enthusiast in your family, we’ve got you covered.
Holiday Recipes
Gather around the table to enjoy some of our favorite holiday meals and treats.
Advertiser Index
Holiday Happenings
Nov. 28, 7 pm
Market Square 221 W. Rutherford St., Landrum
WINTERFEST
Drive-thru Lightshow / Holiday Village & Walk-thru Light Spectacular
Beginning Nov. 28
Tryon International www.resort.tryon.com/winterfest
2ND ANNUAL SALUDA HOLIDAY POP-UP MARKET
Nov. 29, 10 am to 2 pm McCreery Park Main Street, Saluda
LANDRUM CHRISTMAS PARADE AND STROLL
Dec. 4, 6 pm Downtown Landrum
TRYON
CHRISTMAS STROLL
Dec. 5, 5 to 8 pm
Downtown Tryon
4TH ANNUAL
CHRISTKINDLMARKT
CHRISTMAS MARKET
Dec. 6, 12 pm to 5 pm
Congregational Church of Tryon, UCC
210 Melrose Ave, Tryon
COLUMBUS
CHRISTMAS PARADE
Dec. 6, 5 pm
Mills St. Columbus
SALUDA
CHRISTMAS PARADE
Dec. 6, 4 pm
Main Street, Saluda
TUBACHRISTMAS CONCERT
Dec. 6, 1:30 pm
Polk County High School
1681 NC-108, Columbus
TubaChristmas.com
TRYON
CHRISTMAS PARADE
Dec. 10, 6 pm
Trade St., Tryon
A TOUCH OF NOSTALGIA
Story and photography by Linda List
The holiday season begins when we pull our first joyful Christmas card from the mailbox. It can come from a neighbor or an old friend who now lives miles away. Opening the envelope to reveal a colorful, sentimental greeting, we're suddenly humming Christmas carols and digging out our cookie recipes. Christmas isn’t Christmas without the cards. I’m on a mission to bring back Christmas cards.
Sending Christmas cards, like many old-timey customs, is beginning to fade away. I remember in the fifties, the post office added a second delivery in December to accommodate all the cards being sent. Now, the Christmas card display at the local Hallmark store is dwindling each year. Mailboxes hold only one or two cards a day here and there. Every fall, I hear someone say, “I'm not sending
Christmas cards this year.” There are probably many excuses cropping up to convince people that Christmas cards are dated and no longer a tradition. But I’m still a Christmas card sender. Fall arrives, and I start browsing catalogs and store shelves for a card whose message, colors, and design reflect my thoughts and the events of the past year. When I sign my name, lick the envelope seal, and add the latest Christmas stamp, I’m letting the recipient know I was thinking about them and remembering good times. This time of year is very nostalgic, and always a good time to reflect on special memories. I was recently fortunate to ask many of my friends about their favorite Christmas memories from their early years—as I chatted with various elders, heartfelt remembrances were offered, often involving difficult economic times. These childhoods were spent during the Depression years and the war years, and into the recovery of the 1950s.
An Electric Lionel Train Set was the Christmas wish for many
Bob: We made soap suds from Ivory flakes and put them on the tree to look like snow. Gifts were useful things, pajamas, socks, and one year, a desk. We didn't have Christmas stockings. My mother made fruitcake cookies and ambrosia.
Ken: My mother made cookies called fruit rocks. They were like a fruitcake cookie. I don't know why they were called rocks. I remember hoping I would never get just coal and ashes.
Harold: We could only afford one string of lights. During the year, my mother would buy us frozen pot pies that came in a little aluminum pie pan. She would save the pans. At Christmas, she would cut holes in the bottom of the pan. Then she would insert a light into the hole of each pan. It reflected the light and brightened up our tree.
Lucy: Our bank offered Christmas Clubs. Every week, our mother would take us to the bank to deposit 25 cents. In December, the bank would send us a $12.50 check. We thought it was a lot of money and we could buy presents. We would go to Woolworths and buy our mother a small bottle of Lilies of the Valley perfume. Back then, it was called “toilet water.” In December, the post office was so busy delivering Christmas cards that we would get two deliveries each day.
Chuck: I grew up in Tennessee. My father was a physician and would make house calls back then. There were certain patients that he would select to receive a gift. On Christmas Eve, he would drive us kids around, and we would deliver the gifts. My mom displayed little china houses that looked like a Christmas village. My most exciting gift was when I was 18. I received the car keys to a Volkswagen Beetle. My buddy and I had to go to Germany to pick it up. Then we drove around Europe before we shipped it home.
Hazel: There were 13 kids in our family. We would receive a bag of fruit and nuts at Christmas. We would go to church Christmas Eve to learn about Jesus and watch a Christmas play. We decorated our tree with a popcorn garland. I only received one baby doll in my entire life. My sister got upset with me and broke its head. I cried for a long time.
This Santa ornament conjures up sentimental feelings
Letters to Santa
I hope you, Mrs. Claus, and all the reindeer are doing great! I’ve been trying hard to be good this year, even when my little brother steals my stuff. For Christmas, I’d really like a bike so I can ride with my friends, a new soccer ball, and maybe some cool stickers for my water bottle. I’ll leave extra cookies for you and some carrots for the reindeer!
Love, Jackson
Dear Santa Claus,
I am very excited for Christmas this year! I have tried to be polite and help my grandma whenever she needs me. For Christmas, I would like a wooden train set, some puzzles, and maybe a soft blanket to keep on my bed. Please tell the elves thank you for all their hard
Dear Santa
I can’t believe it’s almost Christmas again! I’ve tried my best to be kind and work hard in school. For gifts, I’d love some art supplies, a comfy bean bag chair, and maybe a few mystery novels. Please tell the elves they’re amazing—I know they’re working hard!
With love, Oliver
Hi Santa Claus
Merry almost Christmas! I’ve been helping my teacher and doing my chores without being asked. Could I please have a doll that talks, a sparkly sweater, and some new books to read before bed? I also hope you can bring something nice for my grandma—she’s been really good too.
Clara
Thank you so much!
Dear Santa
I’ve been really good this year! Could I please have a Lego Star Wars set and some new markers? I’ll leave cookies and milk for you and Rudolph.
Love, Ethan
Dear Santa,
I’ve been kind and done my chores. I’d love a dollhouse and some fairy books—and a bunny plush for my sister!
Sophie
Santa
I’m excited for Christmas! Could I get Super Mario Wonder for my Switch and a cool hoodie? Brownies will be
From, Noah
Yo
Santa
I want a skateboard with flames, new sneakers, and wireless headphones. Hope you like chocolate chip cookies!
Dear Santa Claus
Hope you and the elves are doing great! I’d love a Polaroid camera and maybe a record player like my dad’s.
Your friend, Lila
Peace, Jayden
Merry Christmas
I’ve worked really hard this year, and I think I’ve been pretty good. I’d like a brand new Deering 5-string banjo with a shiny gold rim. Mama will leave peanut butter cookies for you!
Jeff
Dear Santa,
I’ve been really good this year! Can I please have a new skateboard and some cool stickers for my laptop?
Thanks, Mason
Hi Santa
Hope it’s not too cold up there at the North Pole. I’ve been extra nice this year (my mom says so!). For Christmas, I’d love a karaoke machine, some nail polish, and maybe a microphone. I’ll make sure the cookies are fresh this time!
Love, Riley
Dear Santa Claus,
I’m so excited for Christmas! I’ve helped my dad shovel snow and even cleaned my room. Could you please bring me a remote-control drone and some puzzles? I’d also like treats for my puppy, Luna. She’s been mostly good too.
Merry Christmas, Grayson
Dear Santa Claus,
I’ve tried my best at school. Could I get a remote-control car and some headphones?
Aiden
This year went by fast! I’ve been kind (most of the time) and got good grades. Could I have a basketball, a hoodie, and some wireless earbuds? Thanks for making Christmas so fun every year.
See you soon, Emma
Hey Santa,
I want a big Lego set and a basketball. Don’t forget some treats for my dog!
From, Sofia
Hi Santa
I’d love a Nintendo Switch 2. I’ll leave you cookies and milk!
Love, Chloe
Dear Santa,
I’ve been working really hard in school this year! For Christmas, could I please get a tablet, some fuzzy socks, and a new backpack? My brother wants a football, so if you could fit that in your sleigh too, that’d be awesome. I’ll leave out chocolate chip cookies and milk for you!
Mall & Marketplace
19 Pearson Falls Rd., Saluda 828 769-9063
earthlymindsgallery.squarespace.com
WHERE TO FIND GIFTS FOR ART LOVERS
Do you have an art lover on your holiday shopping list? Our area has no shortage of art galleries and gift shops where you can find that perfect piece to add to their collection. Pick up a painting by a local artist in Tryon, a unique piece of decorative glass in Saluda or a one-of-a-kind creation in Landrum.
You are sure to find that perfect gift at one of these local galleries or gift shops!
80Six Art Gallery
86 N. Trade St., Tryon 828-440-1162
Carri Bass Photography & Art Gallery
92 Pacolet St, Tryon 828 919-0033 carribass.com
Oberon Art Studio Gallery 22 N. Trade St. D, Tryon 828-817-5780
The Pottery 50 E. Main St., Saluda 828-713-5719
373 Harmon Field Rd., Tryon 828-859-8323 tryonartsandcrafts.org
Wood
Edward
jimcarson.net
WHERE TO FIND GIFTS FOR ANTIQUE AFICIONADOS
A re you looking for a last-minute gift for the antique aficionado in your life? Whether you are searching for heirloom antiques, collector’s items, things to upcycle and repurpose, fun holiday home decor, or quirky and offbeat “rare as a hen’s teeth” objects, you’ll find the antique shops here in the Foothills offer an abundance of choices.
Shop local, and check out one of these shops for that perfect gift!
Savvy Scavengers Antique Mall and Marketplace
105 S. Randolph Ave., Landrum 864-457-6710 Facebook.com/pickersloveus
Gardener’s Cottage & The Brass Latch
181 E. Main St., Saluda 828-749-4200
River Dog Run
46 E. Main St., Saluda
828-551-1461
Architectural Warehouse
151 Southern Mercerizing Road, Tryon
828-859-2297
Aarchitecturalwarehouse.com
Old Mill Market Square
151 Southern Mercerizing Rd., Tryon
828-859-5467
Oldmillmarketsquare.com
WHERE TO FIND GIFTS FOR HORSE LOVERS
If you’re looking for that perfect holiday gift for the horse lover in your life, why not stop by a local tack or feed store and get them what they really want? Our area is steeped in equestrian tradition, from the rolling hills of Hunting Country to the riding trails in Green Creek.
Consider picking up that perfect piece of attire or riding gear at one of these local spots, or even a new watering trough or feed from one of the area farm supply stores. They’ll be glad you did!
207 E Rutherford St. Landrum, SC 828-202-9811, rideequistyle.com
THE FARM HOUSE TACK SHOP
Tryon International Equestrian Center, Vendor Cabins 9&10, 828-817-6837 farmhousetack.com
SS Farm & Saddlery
2060 Lynn Rd., Suite 7, Columbus, NC 828-440-1510, ssfarmandsaddlery.com
Tim Edwards Farm & Landscaping Supplies
109 Post Office Rd., Mill Spring, NC 828-894-0741, timedwardslandscaping. com
Tractor Supply
651 W. Mills St., Columbus, NC 828-894-0560, tractorsupply.com
an individual or family membership to ever yone on your list and yourself as well
22341 Asheville Hwy., Landrum, SC, 864-4573557
Whether they prefer cooking at home or dining out whenever possible, you can find the perfect gift for the foodie on your holiday shopping list right here in the Foothills. The best locally sourced ingredients for their favorite meal, a delectable assortment of chocolates or even a gift card to a local restaurant they love would be a thoughtful gift for any food connoisseur.
Visit one of these markets or other locations in the area!
828-848-4060
Saludaoutfitters.com
CHRISTMAS CUPCAKES MAKE A PERFECT HOLIDAY TREAT
Alittle indulgence is par for the course during the holiday season—especially when it comes to baked goods. Cookies, cakes, and cupcakes inevitably find their way to office parties, family gatherings, and school festivities, bringing sweetness to every celebration. Treats are part of what makes this time of year so special. This holiday season, families can add a bit of homemade magic with this Lines+Angles recipe for Chocolate Christmas Cupcakes—a delightful, festive dessert that’s simple enough for weekday baking but elegant enough for a Christmas table.
Chocolate Christmas Cupcakes Makes 12 cupcakes
For the cakes:
8 tablespoons butter
1⁄3 cup caster sugar
2 tablespoons light brown sugar
2 eggs
1 cup flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1⁄3 cup cocoa powder
1⁄2 cup milk
1 cup chocolate chips
For the chocolate topping:
2⁄3 cup heavy cream
1 cup chopped plain dark chocolate (70%)
To decorate:
Icing sugar (confectioners’ sugar)
8 ounces white sugarpaste (fondant)
8 ounces green sugarpaste
4 ounces red sugarpaste
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. Beat butter until soft and light. Add both sugars and beat until fluffy.
3. Beat in the eggs one at a time. Sift in flour, baking powder, and cocoa; fold gently to combine. Stir in milk and chocolate chips.
4. Spoon the mixture into the paper cases and bake 25 minutes, or until firm to the touch. Cool in the tin for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
5. For the topping, heat cream and chocolate in a saucepan over low heat until melted. Remove from heat and let cool until slightly thickened.
6. Spoon the topping over cupcakes and let set.
7. Roll out white sugarpaste on a surface dusted with icing sugar. Cut snow shapes and place on top.
8. Roll out green sugarpaste and cut two holly leaves for each cupcake. Attach with a dab of water.
9. Roll small red sugarpaste balls for berries and press into place.
These charming cupcakes make a merry addition to any dessert tray—and a fun holiday baking project for the whole family.
TASTY CHOCOLATE SQUARES MAKE A PERFECT PARTY OFFERING
Holiday parties help make the month of December a festive time of year. Office parties, family gatherings, and school functions dot many people’s social schedules during the holiday season, and that means hosts are forever on the lookout for tasty fare to serve their guests.
Many holiday gatherings are informal affairs where foods might be passed around a room or presented buffet-style. In such instances, it’s not uncommon to see a bevy of small bites on a kitchen countertop or dining room table. Hosts planning such events can offer guests a touch of everything, including something decadent like these “Chocolate Squares” courtesy of Lines+Angles.
Chocolate Squares
Makes 3 to 4 dozen
1⁄3 cup granulated sugar
7 tablespoons butter
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
3 tablespoons cocoa
3 teaspoons baking powder
2 eggs
2 tablespoons rum
2 pounds marzipan
1⁄3 cup icing sugar
1 teaspoon almond extract
1 cup apricot jelly
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Oil a rimmed cookie sheet.
2. Heat honey, sugar, and butter in a saucepan until sugar and butter are melted, stirring constantly. Let cool.
3. Mix flour, pumpkin pie spice, cocoa, and baking powder together and set aside.
2 cups chocolate, dark or milk
1 cup icing sugar
4 to 5 tablespoons milk or water
1 tablespoon butter
1⁄4 cup white chocolate, melted
4. In a large mixing bowl, beat together the eggs with the rum. Add the cooled honey mixture and mix. Slowly add in the flour mixture and mix until smooth.
5. Spread dough onto cookie sheet, approximately ½ inch thick. Smooth the top and bake for 20 to 30 minutes, or until a wooden toothpick inserted in the center of the cake comes out clean. Let cool.
6. To assemble, knead marzipan with 1⁄3 cup icing sugar and almond extract. If too soft, add a bit more icing sugar.
7. Roll out marzipan mixture between two layers of plastic wrap until it is the size of the cake.
8. Cut the cake horizontally to make two layers. Brush bottom layer with jelly or marmalade and then cover with marzipan.
9. Next, brush jelly or marmalade over the marzipan layer. Cover with the top cake layer. Cut into approximately 1-inch squares.
10. In a double boiler, melt chocolate and mix with 1 cup icing sugar, the water or milk, and butter.
Dip “dominosteine” in chocolate and let set on a cookie rack until the chocolate has hardened. Place melted white chocolate in a small piping bag and decorate the chocolate squares with dots of melted white chocolate for a domino decoration.
HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE
EGGNOG IS A
GO-TO HOLIDAY BEVERAGE
One of the most notable aspects of the holiday season is the return of foods and beverages that rarely make appearances at any other time of year. Eggnog certainly fits that description. Though it’s seldom served once December fades, this classic recipe for “Eggnog” from Lines+Angles makes a rich and comforting beverage that’s perfect for holiday gatherings.
Eggnog Makes 4 servings
Ingredients:
6 egg yolks
1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
1 1/2 cups milk
3/4 cup light cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup whiskey or rum
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1/3 cup icing sugar
1 teaspoon almond extract
1 cup apricot jelly
2 cups chocolate, dark or milk
1 cup icing sugar
4 to 5 tablespoons milk or water
1 tablespoon butter
1/4 cup white chocolate, melted
In a medium bowl, whisk the egg yolks until light in color. Add the confectioners’ sugar and whisk until fluffy. Set aside.
1. In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the milk, cream, and vanilla. Stir occasionally and gently heat for about 5 minutes. Increase the heat to medium and slowly bring to a boil. Remove from heat.
2. Slowly pour the hot milk mixture into the eggs, whisking constantly to avoid cooking the yolks. Continue whisking until thoroughly combined.
3. Return the mixture to the saucepan and heat over medium, stirring constantly, until slightly thickened, 3 to 5 minutes. Do not boil. Remove from heat.
4. Let cool for about an hour, then pour into a jar with a tight-fitting lid. Add the whiskey or rum, seal, and refrigerate for 8 hours or overnight.
5. When ready to serve, shake well, pour into glasses, and top with a sprinkle of cinnamon and nutmeg.
Tuba Christmas Concert
Saturday December 6, 2025 1:30 pm
Polk County High School Auditorium
Free admission – donations appreciated at the door
Dr. Jeff Key, Conductor
Bill Leidheiser, Coordinator
A LESS TRADITIONAL TAKE ON A FAMILY DINNER STAPLE
Fried foods are often considered guilty pleasures. While frying may not be the healthiest way to prepare a meal, there’s no denying the irresistible flavor that comes from crispy, golden perfection. Air frying offers a way to capture that same satisfying flavor and texture in a much healthier fashion. This holiday season, home cooks can turn to their air fryers to create flavorful meals with far fewer drawbacks than traditional frying. Even classic dishes like roast beef can get a modern twist. For a lighter take on a beloved family staple, try this air-fried “Roast Beef” recipe from Lines+Angles.
Roast Beef
Makes 4 to 6 servings
Ingredients:
1 2-pound beef roast, trimmed
2 tablespoons olive oil
Flaked sea salt Freshly ground mixed peppercorns
Red Mountain Hardware highest level of customer service. We take pride in providing quality tools and materials, coupled with
Directions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 360°F. Rub the beef roast with olive oil, then season generously with salt and mixed peppercorns.
2. Tie the roast at intervals with kitchen twine to help it hold its shape.
3. Lightly spritz the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place the beef roast inside and cook for about 45 minutes for mediumrare, adding 5-minute intervals for a more well-done roast.
4. Remove the beef from the air fryer, cover loosely with aluminum foil, and let rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
5. This modern take on roast beef delivers big flavor, tender texture, and a healthier edge—perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy Sunday dinners alike.
County’s Exclusive KAVU Dealer
GO BEYOND TRADITION WITH A GOURMET HOLIDAY ENTRÉE OFFERING
Tradition is central to the holiday season, from menorahs and Christmas trees to twinkling lights that make December feel magical. Food is another hallmark of holiday celebrations, and while turkey, ham, and cookies remain perennial favorites, cooks can delight guests with inventive dishes. This recipe for Stuffed Partridges Wrapped in Bacon from Lines+Angles offers a sophisticated twist on festive fare.
Stuffed Partridges Wrapped in Bacon
Makes six servings
Ingredients:
Six whole partridges, ready to roast
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Two bunches large thyme
Six bay leaves
Three clementines, halved
Two tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
Six strips bacon
Directions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F. Wash the partridges and pat dry thoroughly. Season the cavities with salt and pepper, then stuff with thyme, bay leaves, and clementine halves.
2. Arrange the partridges in a roasting pan and tie the legs securely with kitchen twine. Rub softened butter over the outside of each bird, then wrap each with a strip of bacon. Season the exterior with pepper.
3. Roast until the thickest part of the thighs reaches at least 165°F on a meat thermometer, about thirty to thirty-five minutes. If you do not have a thermometer, pierce a thigh with a skewer; the juices should run clear when the birds are done.
4. Remove the partridges from the oven and transfer to a serving platter. Cover loosely with aluminum foil and let rest for at least ten minutes before serving.
5. This elegant entrée pairs the rich flavor of bacon with the bright citrus aroma of clementines and fragrant herbs, making it a standout dish for holiday gatherings.
