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Keeping a community tradition alive amidst Hurricane Helene damages

 

TRYON—Due to the ongoing closure of Chimney Rock at Chimney Rock State Park caused by Hurricane Helene, the 69th Annual Easter Sunrise Service tradition will take place on Sunday, April 20 at Tryon International Equestrian Center.

The public is invited to participate in this special event, which will take place at TIEC’s International Pavilion Stadium. The service will begin at 6:40 a.m., in time for a 6:50 a.m. sunrise. Attendees are encouraged to arrive as early as 5:30 a.m. to find seating and prepare for the service, which will be led by Foothills Village Chapel. The service will feature a Chimney Rock tradition, live music by the Chimney Rock Bagpipe Band.

Following the service, guests can enjoy a variety of family-friendly activities throughout the day. This includes a breakfast buffet and coffee, Easter egg hunts for all ages, and a pre-registered brunch at Legends Club. Chimney Rock’s park naturalists will also be hosting up-close encounters with their animal ambassadors and sharing insights into the area’s wildlife. Additionally, WNC Main Street will offer shopping opportunities to support local businesses, including those from Chimney Rock Village, impacted by the hurricane.

TIEC offers a range of pet-friendly lodging options, including cabins, hotels, and RV parking for those looking to make a weekend of the event.

Although Chimney Rock at Chimney Rock State Park remains temporarily closed, Tryon International is honored to host the beloved event. The Easter Sunrise Service, which began in the 1950s when the park was family-owned, has been a cherished tradition in Western North Carolina for nearly seven decades. Chimney Rock and TIEC are excited to continue it in this temporary location, bringing the community together during this year of recovery.

For those unable to attend in person, the event will be livestreamed on Chimney Rock’s Facebook starting at 6:40 a.m.

For more information email Maddy Kaniewski at communications@chimneyrockpark.com or call 828-532-4269.