Smoky Mountain Toy Run Rides for Kids
Motorcycle riders gathered in Asheville for the 46th annual event that collects gifts and donations for children in need during the holidays.
Updated on Nov. 7, 2026 in Philanthropy
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The 46th annual Smoky Mountain Toy Run took place Saturday, November 7, in Asheville, North Carolina. Riders bring a present or make a $20 donation to take part in the event.
Why it matters
The ride collects toys and money so children in need can receive gifts during the Christmas season. Its longevity makes it a long-running holiday fixture for the Asheville area.
The 46th annual ride marks the event's 46th consecutive year, and riders contribute either a present or a $20 donation. The total number of toys and funds raised has not been reported.
The players
The Salvation Army
The Salvation Army is an international Christian charitable organization that runs social service and emergency aid programs, and it is one of the groups distributing the toys collected by the ride.
Asheville Buncombe Community Christian Ministry (ABCCM)
ABCCM is a local nonprofit that provides shelter, food, and support services to people in need in Asheville and Buncombe County, and it helps distribute the event's toys.
Eblen Charities
Eblen Charities is a Western North Carolina nonprofit that focuses on serving children and families, and it helps distribute the toys gathered during the event.
The details
The Smoky Mountain Toy Run is the oldest toy run in North Carolina and one of the oldest on the East Coast. The Salvation Army, Asheville Buncombe Community Christian Ministry (ABCCM), and Eblen Charities distribute the collected toys to children.
Timeline
Saturday, November 7, 2026: 46th annual Smoky Mountain Toy Run held in Asheville.
Christmas 2026: Children receive gifts distributed from event donations.
Roadmap
The 46th annual Smoky Mountain Toy Run extends a tradition that has run for decades, making it the oldest toy run in North Carolina. Its longevity places it among the East Coast's established motorcycle charity rides that have sustained holiday giving over generations.
Riders who want to participate can bring a present or make a $20 donation, and the toys are distributed to local children through partner charities. Residents seeking to donate or receive help can contact the listed distributing organizations directly.
The takeaway
Small contributions, such as a single present or a $20 donation, add up across many participants to support children in need. Anyone interested in joining future rides can bring a gift or donation to the next event.
Further reading
Explore more Asheville philanthropy coverage to see how local giving efforts support families during the holidays.
Source note: This article includes information reported by WLOS.
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Would you support a local charity toy drive in your community this holiday season?
