The first two Saturdays of December are some of the most magical days of the year at Chimney Rock at Chimney Rock State Park. That’s because Santa, the fat guy himself, with help from rock climbing professionals from Fox Mountain Guides,  rappels down the Chimney in preparation for his Christmas Eve deliveries at 11:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m. and 1:30 p.m.

“I love rappelling down the Chimney with my buddies from Fox Mountain Guides,” said Santa. “Practicing with them is one of my favorite ways to get ready for Christmas. After all, where else can you take in beautiful views of Lake Lure and the Gorge and visit with so many children at one time.”

At the top of every hour, Santa will take a break from climbing the Chimney, so that he and Mrs. Claus can visit with kiddos and their families. Timeless Journey Photography will be on site taking complimentary Santa photos for visitors.  Hi-resolution Santa photos will be available for parents to download from the Park’s Facebook page the day after each event.

Local poet, Eddie Cabbage, will also be available for kids who need help putting together their Christmas wish list. Using his vintage typewriter and pieces of parchment paper, Cabbage will type up one-of-a-kind, personalized wish lists that kids can give to Santa or keep as mementos of their time at the Rock.

Live holiday music will be provided from 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.  each day of the event. Lake Lure Classical Academy’s Acoustic Ensemble and Children’s Choir will perform on Saturday, Dec. 1, and Hendersonville Symphony Children’s Choir will sing on Saturday, Dec. 8.

An assortment of holiday craft stations and complimentary cookies and hot cocoa will be available during both days that Santa is on the Chimney.  Each event will end with a hike guided by an elf along the Great Woodland Adventure trail at 2p.m. During this hike families will get to go on a scavenger hunt with Santa’s helpers.

For more details about Santa on the Chimney events, visit ChimneyRockPark.com.