A Festive Stroll Through the Heart of Town
Cooleemee ushered in the holiday season with smiles, waves, and plenty of hometown pride as families lined the streets for the annual Christmas Parade on November 29th. From Cooleemee Elementary School to the historic Zachary House, neighbors bundled up, children giggled with excitement, and the community came together in the way only Cooleemee can.
Christmas the Cooleemee Way
After the last festive float rolled by, the celebration shifted to the Zachary House for the town’s treasured Old-Time Christmas gathering. Sponsored by the Cooleemee Historical Association (CHA), the Town of Cooleemee, and The Bridge Church, this holiday tradition felt like stepping back into a simpler, sweeter time.
Honoring Heritage, Traditions & Togetherness
Mayor Jeff Smith warmly welcomed everyone and shared heartfelt reflections on Cooleemee’s rich heritage. Established in 1898 and incorporated in 1985, the town proudly celebrates 40 years of incorporation this year—a milestone rooted in community, resilience, and shared memories.
He spoke about what makes Cooleemee special: the traditions that bring us together year after year—tasting homemade fudge, sipping hot cocoa, visiting with Santa, and catching up with friends you may not have seen since “the good ole days.” These moments, he shared, are what keep Cooleemee’s close-knit spirit alive.
Looking ahead, Mayor Smith also celebrated the excitement surrounding the upcoming groundbreaking of the new community center—a project that reflects the town’s motto: Preserving the Past, Building Our Future.
A Program Filled with Meaning and Merriment
Guests enjoyed a beautiful lineup of holiday favorites, including:
- A reading from the Book of Luke — Justin Blue, The Bridge Church
- ’Twas the Night Before Christmas — Lynn Vogler
- Visits and photos with Santa & Mrs. Claus
- Caroling and sweet moments of fellowship
A Delicious Tradition Lives On
No Cooleemee Christmas would be complete without the town’s beloved fudge contest—an event with a history as rich as the treats themselves. Created years ago by former Mayor John Chandler, and paired with former Mayor Steve Corriher’s vision for a local Christmas parade, these traditions continue to shape Cooleemee’s holiday season.
Congratulations to Cathy Cook, who won the fudge contest for the second year in a row with yet another mouthwatering creation!
A Celebration of Community Spirit
From the joyful parade to the timeless charm of Old-Time Christmas, this year’s celebration once again highlighted everything that makes Cooleemee such a wonderful place to call home. Rooted in history, filled with tradition, and always looking toward the future, Cooleemee continues to shine—especially at Christmastime.
Photos by KC Smith