December 2, 2020

Help Explore Asheville welcome our new President & CEO at our festive (online) holiday celebration next week

We’re not letting the pandemic stop us from hosting our annual holiday celebration!

While it won’t be exactly the same, we’re looking forward to seeing you (on our computer screens) on Wednesday, Dec. 9, from 4 to 5 p.m. We’re especially excited about introducing you to our new President & CEO, Victoria “Vic” Isley, who started at Explore Asheville on Dec. 1.

The virtual gathering will also include an announcement of this year's Explore Asheville Superstar Awards - plus a fun surprise or two!

Victoria "Vic" Isley

Toys for Tots Collection Goes Online

The Toys for Tots drive has always been a cherished tradition at Explore Asheville's holiday gathering. This year, the need for donations to serve our community's children is greater than ever. Though we won't be able to collect toys in person, you can still donate online here.

Join Us in a Welcome-to-Asheville Holiday Toast to Vic!

Before logging on for our 2020 Holiday Party, grab a snack and your favorite local beverage (or whip up a fresh 'n' festive craft cocktail, like this recipe from Sovereign Remedy's Charlie Hodge).

Whatever your beverage of choice, join us during the party for a holiday toast to our new President & CEO Vic Isley!

A SEASONAL RECIPE FOR THE HOLIDAY PARTY
(or anytime!)

• 1 mandarin orange, muddled
• 1-1/2 oz. Chemist South Slope Gin
• 1 oz. melted orange sorbet
• Juice from less than half of a lemon
• 1 oz. apple cider (optional)

Mix all ingredients with ice in a cocktail shaker. Pour into a glass with more ice. See complete directions & other inspired recipes here. 

Outdoor Winter Dining Guide

Are you a Buncombe County establishment offering outdoor winter dining? A new section on ExploreAsheville.com is designed to help bring customers to you. Let visitors and residents know how you're working to keep them warm, comfortable, and safe. Login to the Extranet and select the new "Outdoor Winter Dining" amenity in the "Business Continuity" section.

The Gift of Asheville

Although the pandemic is keeping many visitors and residents at home, the Handmade Holiday Gift Guide is designed to inspire online shopping with local businesses. Included is a section on the "Gift of Travel," offering opportunities for shoppers to purchase future experiences in Asheville.

Packages, Coupons & More, Oh My!

The "Packages & Deals" tab of ExploreAsheville.com is one of the most visited sections on the website. If your business has wintertime or seasonal specials, it's not too late to include them in this section. Learn how to upload your Offer in the Extranet here.

We're here to help

If you need assistance updating your online business information, the Community Engagement team can help. Contact us here.

Visited AshevilleCVB.com lately? Here's some of what you can find.

• COVID-19 Resource Page: Includes info on Gov. Cooper's recent extension of the Phase 3 Safer at Home executive order, which goes through at least Dec. 11, plus links to materials such as required mask and capacity signage.
• 3 W's Safety Campaign: Explore Asheville partnered with Buncombe County and the City of Asheville on a new campaign featuring a whimsical design by a local artist. Materials are free to local businesses.
• One-on-One Wednesdays: Have questions about your listing? Looking for some support to ensure you’re fully engaging with our team? One-on-One Wednesdays are an opportunity to speak directly to the Community Engagement Team. Go here to schedule your call.
  

We're grateful for these kind words from our partners...

Our thanks to the Buncombe County TDA for the Tourism Jobs Recovery Fund grant. This grant is allowing us to weather the pandemic with safety and grace and helping us stay resilient during these turbulent times by easing the financial burden of being a small business."

- Mike Karnowski & Gabe Pickard-Karnowski, Owners
Zebulon Artisan Ales, Weaverville