CULLOWHEE — The "Hard Candy Christmas" Art and Craft Show  is celebrating its 25th year as a mountain Christmas tradition in Western North Carolina.This popular event has come a long way from the little show in the Slagle Memorial Building in Franklin, to the spacious Ramsey Center on the campus of Western Carolina University. The first show had eight craftsmen.Today you will see original work of more than 100 regional artisans.

Always held the Friday and Saturday after Thanksgiving, this year’s dates are November 23 and 24. The hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day. Admission is $4 for a weekend pass for adults, children under 12 free. There will be free parking and concessions available for purchase.

The show is the hard work and "dream come true" for artist Doris Hunter. She visits many ...