There’s a certain kind of magic that descends upon the Allegheny Mountains when winter arrives. The kind that makes twinkling lights sparkle a little brighter and fires crackle a little warmer. At The Greenbrier, that magic transforms America’s Resort in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia, into a holiday wonderland where traditions old and new come alive, inviting guests to truly come “Home for the Holidays.”
From the moment you step through the grand front entrance, festooned in garland and ribbons, the scent of pine and gingerbread fills the air. Every hallway glows with the warm light of chandeliers reflecting off crimson and emerald décor, and the energy of the season is unmistakable, joyous, elegant, and undeniably Greenbrier.
The celebration begins in December with Weekends With Santa, a beloved tradition that captures the spirit of the season for guests of all ages. Each weekend brings a carefully curated mix of classic fun and grown-up indulgence, from bourbon, cocktails and wine tastings, to gingerbread house and wreath-making workshops. Families wander the resort grounds on festive scavenger hunts or gather for heartwarming photo opportunities beneath towering Christmas trees.
But the true highlight comes every December Saturday evening, when guests gather for theTree Lighting Ceremony on the front lawn. Children squeal with delight as Santa himself arrives to give the command to“light up The Greenbrier,”and suddenly, the historic façade shines under thousands of sparkling bulbs. With carolers singing and cookies in hand, it’s a moment that captures the essence of holiday nostalgia; timeless, joyful and utterly enchanting.
When the week of Christmas finally arrives, The Greenbrier feels like something from a storybook. Time-honored traditions, including cookie and craft workshops, elegant dinners, cantatas and the ceremonial lighting of the yule log, fill the days with festive cheer. Guests who book the Christmas Package enjoy a daily breakfast buffet in the MainDining Room, where holiday music drifts through the same elegant space that has served generations of distinguished guests since 1913. A resort credit included in the package invites even more exploration, from fine dining and spa treatments to a long list of winter activities.
And when it comes to activities, The Greenbrier doesn’t disappoint. With more than 55 indoor and outdoor experiences, every guest can find their perfect way to celebrate the season. Lace up your skates for a spin under the stars at the outdoor rink, or bundle up for a carriage ride or sleigh ride, if the snow obliges, through 11,000 scenic acres. For thrill-seekers, off-road driving in a Jeep Rubicon or Polaris RZR offers an unforgettable winter adventure, while those seeking tranquility can cast a line along Howard’s Creek or unwind at the world-famous mineral spa. Indoors, families challenge one another in the bowling alley or tackle an escape room, while shooters stay warm at the heated 5-stand at The Greenbrier Gun Club.
Of course, the season wouldn’t be complete without a grand finale, and The Greenbrier has been welcoming the new year in style for more than a century. This year’s New Year’s celebration includes a performance of The Nutcracker Ballet, family pickleball tournaments, cocktail mixology classes, a festive fun run and an elegant dinner leading up to the Countdown to 2026. As the clock strikes midnight, guests raise their glasses, the band strikes up a lively tune, and the ballroom comes alive with laughter, music and memories that will last long after the final toast.
At The Greenbrier, the holidays aren’t just celebrated, they’re cherished. Whether you’re skating under the lights, sipping bourbon by the fire or watching Santa light the great tree, one thing is certain: there’s no place quite like“Home for the Holidays."