Smoky Mountain Toy Run alters format in 44th year
Annual holiday campaign to feature car and motorcycle show, no ride through Swannanoa
Fred McCormick
The Valley Echo
October 28, 2024
The Smoky Mountain Toy Run will return to the Kearfott parking lot, Nov. 2, for its 44th year, while the annual motorcycle parade through Swannanoa will not take place, due to hazardous road conditions. Courtesy photo
An annual holiday tradition in which hundreds of motorcycle riders deliver toys to be distributed to local children in need will return to Black Mountain, from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 2.
The 44th Annual Smoky Mountain Toy Run, sponsored by Ingles and hosted in the Kearfott parking lot, will feature a classic car, motorcycle and side-by-side show, live music and food. The customary ride through Swannanoa, which suffered severe damage that created hazardous road conditions, will not take place.
Touted as “the oldest toy run in N.C.,” the fundraiser supports the Eblen Charities Saint Nicholas Project, which assists approximately 1,300 families with gifts, including toys and clothing, each holiday season. The Smoky Mountain Toy Run, allows participants to register vehicles for a toy valued at $20 or higher or a $20 cash donation.
The gathering began in Swannanoa in 1981, when 12 motorcycles assembled along U.S. 70 in sub-freezing temperatures. The following year, approximately 100 people joined the parade. The toy run’s most successful campaign featured 300 motorcycles delivering 2,000 toys.
A long line of motorcycles cruising through Swannanoa has attracted thousands of observers to the side of the road over the decades, but flood-damaged buildings, bridges and other infrastructure impacted by Tropical Storm Helene created an unsafe environment.
Dozens of local businesses, including Harley-Davidson of Asheville, Valley Truck Service, and Hall’s Towing & Recovery, are sponsoring the fundraiser in 2024.
The needs are “enormous,” following the devastation of the natural disaster, according to organizers.
Classic cars, trucks, motorcycles and side-by-sides will gather at Kearfott in Black Mountain, Nov 2, for the 44th Annual Smoky Mountain Toy Run. The fundraiser will support Eblen Charities Saint Nicholas Project. Courtesy photo
“Many have damaged homes, some are without a home and families need some relief from all we’ve witnessed and observed,” a release announcing the event stated. “Our children need the opportunity to experience joy and happiness.”
The entrance to the 44th Annual Smoky Mountain Toy Run will be on Grovestone Road.
Performances include Lori and the Freightshakers and DJ Cory. Local families who need support for the holidays are encouraged to attend the event, where Eblen Charities will sign them up to shop at the Saint Nicholas Project Toy Store in December.