Christmas Things To Do in Charlotte, NC - New for 2024
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Discover the best Christmas events in Charlotte, NC, with festive markets, light displays, holiday shows, ice skating, seasonal dining, and unique holiday experiences.
Things To Do in Charlotte for Christmas: (Jump To)
Winterfest at Carowinds
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: Various ticket bundles start at: Adults: $32.99; Kids and Seniors: $19.99
Dates: Nov. 15, 2024 - Jan. 4, 2025
Carowinds becomes a winter wonderland during Winterfest, with millions of lights, holiday shows, and seasonal activities. Take a spin on the ice rink, visit the cookie decorating station, and enjoy holiday-themed rides for all ages. Park restaurants feature seasonal treats and menu items like gingerbread funnel cake, eggnog parfait, and various turkey and ham dishes.
At 9 PM nightly Santa will visit as part of the WinterFest Wonderland Parade which also features decorated floats and other surprises. The entire park is decked out in holiday splendor, making it a perfect destination for family fun.
Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden’s Holidays at the Garden
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: Weekdays: Adults: $24; Seniors (60+): $22; Kids (2-12): $18 (Weekends additional)
Dates: Nov. 29 - Dec. 29, 2024 (Closed Mondays & Dec. 23-25)
Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden shines with Holidays at the Garden, featuring twinkling lights, a model train display, and holiday-themed displays. Wander through paths lined with lights and visit the Orchid Conservatory, decorated with poinsettias and holiday ribbons. Perfect for families and couples.
Santa will visit on Saturdays and Sundays in December (1st-22nd). Additional events like holiday wreath making, Santa Paws (a Christmas event for dogs), holiday jazz concerts, and more are scheduled throughout the holiday season.
Holiday cocktails will be served in the adults-only speakeasy ($5 fee applies). Popular area food trucks rotate nightly throughout the run of the event.
Speedway Christmas at Charlotte Motor Speedway
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost Per Vehicle: Monday-Wednesday: $35; Thursday-Sunday: $45
Dates: Nov. 22, 2024 - Jan. 5, 2025
Drive through millions of lights on a four-mile course at Charlotte Motor Speedway’s Speedway Christmas. The driving experience features synchronized displays set to holiday tunes. Drive along the racetrack to see all the amazing displays.
After your drive, you can visit the Infield Christmas Village with treats, Santa meet-and-greets, an illuminated walking trail, shopping, and holiday treats.
Plan to visit on a drive-in movie night to enjoy big-screen presentations of Christmas classics like Home Alone, Elf, and White Christmas. The adjacent Tubing Hill will also be open for tubing fun (a separate ticket is required).
A Holiday Spirit Experience at Supperland Speakeasy
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: $160 per person (Reservations required, 21+)
Dates: Nov. 14, 2024 - Jan. 11, 2025
Enjoy festive cocktails perfectly paired with creative seasonal dishes in an intimate speakeasy setting at Supperland. A Holiday Spirit Experience is offered twice nightly in two different seating times on select nights. While the menu varies over the course of the season each 2-hour dining experience includes 4 cocktails and 4 dishes. The intimate setting of the speakeasy, located in the basement of the Supperland bar
Miracle at Backstage Lounge
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: Menu Prices Vary
Dates: Nov. 20 - Dec. 29, 2024
Miracle at Backstage Lounge is a holiday-themed pop-up bar with whimsical decorations, Christmas-themed cocktails, and festive cheer. Enjoy classic holiday tunes and playful seasonal drinks. Be sure to check their Instagram to learn the secret password of the week.
McAdenville, Christmas Town USA
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: Free!
Dates: Dec. 2 - 26, 2024
For over 40 years the nearby town of McAdenville has been transforming into Christmas Town USA. Every December the town is alive with holiday flair with lights on every house, tree, and lamppost. Drive through or walk to enjoy the dazzling lights and decorated homes. Local shops and restaurants offer seasonal shopping and dining options.
The event begins with the annual tree-lighting ceremony at 5:30 pm on Dec. 2nd. The 76th annual Yule Log Parade is scheduled for the evening of Dec. 12th. Christmas Town USA is a beloved local tradition, offering festive holiday vibes and picture-perfect scenes around every corner.
Fourth Ward Holiday Home Tour
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: $30-$60
Dates: Dec. 5-8th, 2024
The Fourth Ward Holiday Home Tour invites you to step inside some of Charlotte’s historic homes, decked out in festive decor. Docents provide details on each home’s history, creating a blend of holiday charm and historical insight. Offerings include food and cocktail tastings on-site at neighborhood restaurants. Live music performances will help you get into the festive spirit.
Charlotte Ballet’s Nutcracker
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: $32-$164
Dates: Dec. 6-22, 2024
Enjoy a holiday classic with Charlotte Ballet’s Nutcracker at the Belk Theater. This enchanting ballet features beautiful costumes, impressive dance performances, and a score by Tchaikovsky.
Tree Lighting Festival at Bank of America Stadium
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: Free! (Free tickets required)
Dates: Nov. 26th
Join the annual tree lighting ceremony at Bank of America Stadium, where holiday lights, live music, and seasonal food create a festive atmosphere. The signature event, the lighting of the 50-foot-tall Christmas tree, will delight all in attendance.
This year vendors from the area of Western North Carolina, still recovering from Hurricane Helene will be showcased. Photo ops, crafts, seasonal treats, and entertainment will also be offered.
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The Gingerbread Lane at the Ballantyne Hotel
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: Free!
Dates: Dec. 15 - 28th, 2024 (Closed Christmas Day)
See impressive gingerbread houses at the Ballantyne Hotel’s Gingerbread Lane, where local chefs and amateur bakers showcase creative and detailed gingerbread designs. Vote for your favorite while soaking in the festive atmosphere and enjoy seasonal treats from the Gallery Restaurant. Additionally, the hotel offers a Holiday Tea experience which would pair nicely with a walk through the gingerbread display. Tea Prices start at $45 for children and $70 for adults.
Christmas at the Library (Billy Graham Library)
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: Free! Some activities have fees.
Dates: Dec. 2-23, 2024
Christmas at the Library features a live nativity, petting zoo, carriage rides, and light displays throughout the library grounds. The event includes caroling, storytelling, and an outdoor Christmas trail.
Holiday shopping is available at the onsite Ruth’s Attic store. A Christmas Dinner is served on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays with turkey, ham, and other seasonal favorites ($34.99 Adults, $17.99 Children).
The Journey of Faith tour is an introspective faith tour inspired by Billy Graham.
Twinkling Tides at Sea Life Aquarium
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: Adults: starting at $18.99; Kids (2-12): starting at $15.99
Dates: Dec. 6, 2024 - Jan. 5, 2025
Located just outside Charlotte at the Concord Hills Mall is the Sea Life Aquarium. For the holidays the aquarium offers a unique underwater Christmas experience. 10 holiday zones are decorated across the aquarium. The popular underwater ocean tunnel is also decorated with lights and festive displays.
A unique New Year’s Eve celebration for kids is part of the final days of Twinkling Tides. This kid-friendly celebration rings in the new year at noon so the kiddos don’t miss their bedtimes.
House of Krampus at Humbug
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: $10
Dates: Nov. 30th - Dec. 24th
For an alternative holiday twist, visit House of Krampus for a spooky Christmas experience. Inspired by European folklore, this event adds a dash of the dark side to holiday festivities. The two-hour event features a unique holiday drink menu, snacks, and other surprises.
Sippin' Santa at the Royal Tot
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: Drink prices vary
Dates: Early December – Christmas
Sippin’ Santa brings tiki-style holiday cocktails to the Royal Tot, featuring creative drinks and tropical decorations with a holiday twist. Their popular line of take-home Christmas tiki mugs are worth the visit alone.
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Ice Skating at Camp North Pole
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: Adults: $15; Kids (5 & Under): $10 (includes skate rental).
Dates: Nov. 22, 2024 - Jan. 5, 2025
Camp North End transforms into Camp North Pole, with a pop-up ice skating rink, holiday decor, and festive events. In addition to ice skating, the event includes fire pits where you can gather to enjoy seasonal beverages.
The Mistletoe Market is a great place to shop for gifts. On-site food trucks and live entertainment add to the allure. Camp North Pole is a fantastic spot to celebrate the season with friends or family.
UCity Lights Winter Celebration!
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: Free! (unwrapped Toys for Tots donations accepted).
Dates: Nov. 23rd 4-8 pm
The UCity Lights Winter Celebration brings a magical display to University City with twinkling lights and holiday decorations. The main event, the tree lighting, takes place at 7 pm. This one-night-only event allows visitors to enjoy local shops and restaurants.
Meet and greet opportunities with Santa and Mrs. Claus will be available along with crafts and other fun family activities. The event takes place at The Shoppes at University Place.
Carolina Holiday Light Spectacular at Ballantyne's Backyard
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: General Admission $15-$20
Dates: Dec. 5th - Dec. 29th, 2024
Stroll through a dazzling light display of more than 1 million lights at the Carolina Holiday Light Spectacular. The half-mile walking trail features large-scale installations, holiday scenes, snow globes, and interactive displays. This immersive experience is a family-friendly holiday adventure, perfect for photo ops and festive fun.
The Holiday Village features food trucks, holiday shopping, and festive food and beverage options. The snow tube slide and children’s moon bounce are popular activities before or after walking the trail. Santa is on hand nightly with additional holiday entertainment on select nights.
Whitewater Center Winter Activities
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: Prices vary by activity, see website
Dates: Throughout winter, dates vary
The Whitewater Center offers a variety of interesting winter activities. The Winter Trail combines a ropes course with a holiday light display with interactive elements. Other areas are illuminated in the evenings for nighttime fun including the zip lines, Wildwoods kid’s play area, and off-leash dog trails.
There are plenty of great options for fans of like ice skating including two ice trails and two free skating rinks. Hot and cold beverages are available on-site to enjoy after skating along the Catawba River. There is also a dedicated curling area.
The Winter Market is also open to buy freshly cut Christmas trees, gifts, and beverages.
Polar Express at the North Carolina Transportation Museum
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: $30-$50
Dates: Select Dates Nov. 8 - Dec. 23, 2024
Hop aboard the Polar Express for a magical train ride featuring hot cocoa, caroling, and a visit from Santa. The experience brings the story to life with beautiful scenery and holiday spirit, perfect for kids and families.
The 70-minute holiday celebration includes two stage performances and a magical train ride. The train arrives into Candy Cane Lane for a memorable finish.
Check out our other posts about things to see and do in Charlotte or North Carolina!
Or visit our Destinations page to be inspired.
Truist Field Light the Knights Festival
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: Admission $14.37; All Activities pass $44.40
Dates: Nov. 27, 2024 - Jan. 4, 2025
Truist Field transforms with holiday lights, seasonal food, an ice skating rink, and snow tubing. Kids can visit Santa’s Village, and adults can enjoy festive drinks at the holiday bars.
Different zones of the park will be decorated with themes so there will be plenty to discover. The nightly holiday light show synchronizes lights to holiday music, the perfect way to cap off the night.
Local businesses and restaurants fill The Market, a perfect place to buy gifts and get to know community businesses.
The 78th Annual Novant Health Thanksgiving Parade
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: Free!
Dates: Nov. 27th, 5:45pm
Kick off the holiday season with this beloved Thanksgiving parade in Uptown Charlotte, featuring elaborate floats, giant balloons, and live performers. The parade route follows Tryon Street between 9th Street and Good Samaritan Way. Food and drink vendors will line the street with tasty treats. The event is free to attend or to watch on local television. VIP tickets for bleacher seats in the performance area can also be purchased for $35.
Festival of Trees in Belmont, N.C.
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Cost: Free!
Dates: Dec. 2 - Dec. 30, 2024
Explore beautifully decorated trees displayed throughout downtown Belmont. Each tree is uniquely designed, making for a festive, family-friendly outing with photo ops galore.
The trees, located in Stowe Park are designed and decorated by local businesses and organizations who work hard to create a memorable scene and experience for each tree.
Belmont is located about 20 minutes drive from downtown Charlotte.
Best Christmas Things To Do in Charlotte, NC:
Winterfest at Carowinds
Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden’s Holidays at the Garden
Speedway Christmas at Charlotte Motor Speedway
A Holiday Spirit Experience at Supperland Speakeasy
Miracle at Backstage Lounge
McAdenville, Christmas Town USA
Fourth Ward Holiday Home Tour
Charlotte Ballet’s Nutcracker
Tree Lighting Festival at Bank of America Stadium
The Gingerbread Lane at the Ballantyne Hotel
Christmas at the Library (Billy Graham Library)
Twinkling Tides at Sea Life Aquarium
House of Krampus at Humbug
Sippin' Santa at the Royal Tot
Ice Skating at Camp North Pole
UCity Lights Winter Celebration
Carolina Holiday Light Spectacular at Ballantyne's Backyard
Whitewater Center Winter Activities
Polar Express at the North Carolina Transportation Museum
Truist Field Light the Knights Festival
The 78th Annual Novant Health Thanksgiving Parade
Festival of Trees in Belmont, N.C.
