Jolly old St. Nick missed his usual thrilling descent down 315-foot-high Chimney Rock last year. The area had been ravaged by floodwaters, including the bridge to Chimney Rock State Park. The park and the adjacent Village were closed to all except residents, but Santa was determined to show up anyway. So, on Dec. 14, he came to Lake Lure, where Chimney Rock held its 2024 Christmas celebration.

“Hurricane Helene devastated Western North Carolina’s economy. Let’s make sure our neighbors know we haven’t forgotten them.”

– Governor Josh Stein

Santa spread much needed holiday cheer and posed for pictures. Visitors were allowed to board buses for a brief look at the rebuilding efforts in Chimney Rock Village. Progress had been made over the past few months, but much remained to be done.

But earlier this year, the new Chimney Rock Village began to take shape. Rebuilt businesses were restocking and, on June 27, Chimney Rock State Park reopened on a limited basis.

“A lot has changed since Hurricane Helene, but what’s still here is the spirit of Chimney Rock and the people who care for it,” said Director and General Manager of Chimney Rock Management Emily Walker upon the reopening. “We’ve missed our guests and are thrilled to be able to welcome them back to this place they love.”

There were other hopeful signs. In the aftermath of widespread destruction, Chimney Rock could count a few blessings. The many helping hands lifted spirits. With the worst behind them, the “Mountain Strong” area’s focus on rebuilding shifted into high gear.

By the one-year anniversary of the flood, 80–90% of the businesses had reopened. Isolated spots still were without Internet and cell service, but progress was ongoing there, as well.

“Chimney Rock Village is back,” Village Mayor Peter O’Leary says. “We’re not 100% complete yet. We haven’t totally fixed everything, but we’re hard at work doing that.”

If you’re planning on coming to see Santa this year, be aware that some changes have been made. With construction ongoing, there is limited street parking, so park in the public area at the western end of the Village. NC 9 is the only road open to Chimney Rock at this time. Visit the park’s website to pay for and reserve your arrival window.

With the return of Santa and local stores open for Christmas shopping, there is a reason to be of good cheer this year. As Governor Josh Stein remarked when the park reopened, “Hurricane Helene devastated Western North Carolina’s economy. Let’s make sure our neighbors know we haven’t forgotten them.”