Charlotte Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025

Step into a magical Christmas wonderland at the Billy Graham Library. Experience the wonder of a live nativity, enjoy enchanting horse-drawn carriage rides, and delight in festive story times. Explore the library's inspiring exhibits and find unique gifts at Ruth's Attic Bookstore. Admission and parking are free, making it a...

Step into a world of holiday magic at Carowinds' WinterFest. This beloved annual event transforms the amusement park into a festive wonderland with enchanting lights and seasonal cheer. Guests can enjoy extended park hours, allowing more time to experience thrilling rides alongside the holiday festivities. It's the perfect destination for...

Step into a winter wonderland at the 4th Annual Carolina Holiday Light Spectacular. This half-mile walking trail dazzles with over a million twinkling lights, interactive scenes, and enchanting snow globes. New this year, the Winter Wonderland Carnival offers thrilling rides, while Santa Claus is available for visits nightly. Explore the...

Experience the magic of Snowland at Great Wolf Lodge, an annual holiday celebration transforming the lodge into a winter wonderland. Families can enjoy festive events like dance parties, scavenger hunts, and games, along with visits from Santa Claus. The celebration also features special seasonal drinks for all ages, creating a...

SEA LIFE Charlotte-Concord transforms into an underwater winter wonderland for Twinkling Tides. Guests can wander through a stunning underwater tunnel adorned with thousands of holiday lights and explore over 10 festive zones. Don't miss the special Noon Year's Eve celebration on December 31st, featuring an early countdown and ball drop...

Huntersville rings in the holiday season with its beloved annual celebration! The festivities begin with the Town Tree Lighting ceremony, featuring a special lighting moment and live music. The following day, immerse yourself in a full day of holiday magic with free children's rides, stunning ice sculptures, festive performances, and...

Experience the magic of Speedway Christmas, the Southeast's largest drive-thru holiday light show. Journey through a four-mile course adorned with over 5 million dazzling lights, all synchronized to festive music. Step into the enchanting Christmas Village for photos with Santa, unique selfie stations, and explore charming holiday attractions.

Step into a magical winter wonderland at Holidays at the Garden, where millions of lights illuminate the landscape. This enchanting event features dancing fountains, festive music, and a warm, inviting atmosphere. Indulge in delicious holiday bites and warm beverages, and discover unique gifts at the Big Leaf Café. Capture unforgettable...

McAdenville, North Carolina, transforms into the enchanting Christmas Town U.S.A.® each December. This beloved tradition draws visitors from across the nation to witness over 500,000 lights illuminating the town. Experience the magic of the Christmas Light Display from December 1-26, 2025, with festivities running nightly from 5:30 PM to 10:00...

Join the festive celebration at The Lighting of Birkdale Village for an unforgettable holiday kickoff. Experience a magical evening with live music, captivating performances, and family-friendly activities. Witness Santa's grand arrival during the festive parade, followed by the dazzling tree lighting ceremony. Enjoy ice skating, local brews, and a vibrant...

Step into a prehistoric winter wonderland at Dino Nights & Holiday Lights. This unique event combines the awe of dinosaur encounters with the magic of holiday illuminations. Drive through a spectacular display where ancient creatures meet festive cheer, creating an unforgettable experience for all ages.

Experience the magic as Rock Hill "Lights the Night" at their spectacular Christmas Parade! This beloved annual event features a dazzling array of illuminated entries, from creative floats and walking groups to energetic marching bands and festive mascots, all coming together to usher in the holiday season with a vibrant...

After seven years as an authentic European Christmas market in Uptown Charlotte, they have evolved into the city's premier holiday pop-up retailer. Discover their curated shops, including Village Bakery, World of Christmas, and Hans and Heidi's Holiday Haus, featured at various local events like Light the Knights at Truist Field...

The Southern Christmas Show is North America's largest holiday shopping event, offering a one-stop destination for all your festive needs. Discover unique gifts, apparel, home décor, gourmet foods, and more from over 400 vendors. Be inspired by beautifully decorated Christmas trees, designer rooms, and a lively entertainment stage. It's the...

Experience the magic of the OMB Christmas Market, a festive celebration spanning four weekends at both brewery locations. Stroll through a charming biergarten transformed with twinkling lights, featuring over 50 local vendors offering unique gifts and crafts. Enjoy traditional Gluhwein, holiday beers, and delicious food while warming up by cozy...

Discover WinterFest in Downtown Matthews, a vibrant holiday market set to take place at The Hangar. This event brings together over 50 small businesses, offering a fantastic opportunity to find unique gifts and complete your holiday shopping. Attendees can also enjoy a selection of craft brews and delicious local food,...

Join the festive Holiday Mingle and Jingle for an enchanting evening filled with Christmas spirit. Families can enjoy a special screening of 'The Grinch,' savor treats from local food trucks, and take delightful free train rides around the park. Over 30 vendors will offer unique handmade gifts at the Christmas...

Step into the enchanting world of ChristmasVille 2025 in Old Town Rock Hill, a festival celebrating two decades of holiday magic. Experience nearly 70 events, from creative contests and festive food to horse-drawn carriage rides and live entertainment. Inspired by artist Vernon Grant, the town transforms into a whimsical village...

Discover the 4th Annual Christmas Extravaganza, a vibrant holiday market in Concord, NC. This two-day indoor event features over 150 local vendors, offering a unique selection of crafts, artisanal goods, and holiday gifts. Stroll through a magical Christmas Tree Display, enter exciting giveaways, and enjoy seasonal treats. It's the perfect...

Experience the enchantment of A Classic Christmas in Mooresville on December 12, 2025. This festive event transforms Downtown Mooresville into a winter wonderland with twinkling lights, local artisans, and a variety of traditional holiday activities. Enjoy ice skating, horse-drawn wagon rides, Santa visits, and live entertainment, all while savoring warm...

Embark on an enchanting adventure this holiday season with Charlotte Ballet's spectacular production of The Nutcracker. Follow young Clara as her Christmas Eve transforms into a magical journey through swirling winter landscapes and into the dazzling Land of Sweets. Accompanied by the Nutcracker Prince, she encounters dancing snowflakes and waltzing...

Dr. Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical brings the classic holiday tale to life with enchanting sets, vibrant costumes, and beloved songs. Follow the Grinch's journey from stealing Christmas to discovering its true meaning, all within the whimsical world of Whoville. This heartwarming production is a perfect festive...

Immerse yourself in the grandeur of Handel's Messiah, presented by the esteemed Charlotte Symphony. This iconic oratorio is a cornerstone of classical music, promising a powerful and moving performance that resonates with the spirit of the season. Experience the masterful execution of this timeless masterpiece by a full orchestra and...

Get ready for a soulful holiday celebration with A Motown Christmas! This spectacular show features The Motortown All-Stars, including former members of The Miracles and The Contours, delivering Motown's greatest hits alongside cherished holiday classics. Prepare for an evening of dazzling choreography, unforgettable harmonies, and that signature Motown sound that...

Experience the magic of the holiday season with Candlelight concerts at the Great Aunt Stella Center. This special performance features beloved Christmas carols, festive medleys, and the iconic "The Nutcracker" suite by Tchaikovsky, all performed by the talented Charlotte Strings. The enchanting atmosphere, illuminated by candlelight, creates an unforgettable multi-sensory...

Immerse yourself in the magic of the season with 'The Real Christmas Story,' a spectacular live theatrical event. This production brings the timeless Christmas narrative to life with dazzling sets, captivating performances, and even live animals. Before the show, indulge in a delicious, traditional Christmas dinner served right at your...

Experience the magic of the holiday season with the Fourth Ward Holiday Sip & Stroll. This charming outdoor event invites you to wander through the historic Victorian heart of the neighborhood, beautifully illuminated for the holidays. Enjoy a delightful evening filled with festive decorations, seasonal live music, and an array...

Get ready for the 12th annual Parranda Navideña Venezolana, Charlotte's premier celebration of Venezuelan Christmas traditions. This vibrant party features live gaitas music, a traditional Christmas dinner, and exciting cultural customs. Headlined by the renowned Los Cardenales del Exito, it's an unforgettable night of sabor, gaitas, and tradition.

Immerse yourself in a magical holiday evening with smooth jazz and dazzling lights. Acclaimed guitarist Adam Hawley and his band will perform live, offering a preview of the spectacular 'Holidays at the Garden' light display. Enjoy festive beverages and snacks from on-site bars and food trucks.

Get ready for Nashville Noel: A Country Christmas Spectacular, a dazzling holiday show that brings a unique country music flair to the festive season. This event promises a heartwarming and entertaining experience, perfect for embracing the spirit of Christmas with a touch of Nashville charm.

Experience the joy of the holiday season at the Stake Christmas Concert, a special event for all. This concert features a joint performance with Empowered Love Ministries, offering a heartwarming musical celebration. Attendees can look forward to an evening of uplifting performances and festive cheer.

Transform the upper pond into a winter wonderland with the Southeast's largest outdoor ice skating center. They offer a vast 24,000 sq ft ice surface, featuring two scenic ice trails and two free skate zones. Enjoy festive beverages from an on-ice Airstream bar, and for a bit of friendly competition,...

Experience a winter wonderland at the US National Whitewater Center's 'Winter at Whitewater' event. This seasonal celebration transforms the center into a hub of cold-weather fun, featuring the largest outdoor ice rink in the Carolinas. Enjoy ice skating across over 24,000 square feet of ice, try your hand at Cask...

Experience the magic of the holiday season at the Mint Hill Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting. Watch as the festive parade makes its way through downtown, culminating in a heartwarming tree lighting ceremony at Town Hall. Children can share their wishes with Santa Claus at his special mailbox, making it...

Lace up for the third annual Bright Lights 5K and Fun Run, a festive race through the illuminated Daniel Stowe Conservancy. This unique event offers a chance to experience the 'Holidays at the Garden' light display during a special sneak peek party before it officially opens. It's the perfect way...

Get ready for a merry time as festive floats, marching bands, and jolly performers fill the streets with holiday cheer! This beloved community event is the perfect way to kick off the season with the whole family. Experience the true spirit of the holidays as the parade brings joy and...

Lace up your skates and glide into the holiday spirit at Birkdale on Ice! This popular outdoor ice skating rink returns to Birkdale Village for the season, offering 75-minute sessions for all to enjoy. Advance booking is highly recommended to secure your spot on the ice.

Join the Town of Waxhaw and the Ballantyne Jewish Center for a heartwarming Menorah lighting ceremony. This special event celebrates the Festival of Lights and brings the community together under the glow of the Big Oak Tree bandstand.

Join the community for the annual Light Up Cornelius tree lighting ceremony. Thousands gather for an evening of festive fun, featuring live performances, a thrilling sledding hill, and enchanting trackless train rides. Children can visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus, while everyone can enjoy delicious food, warm s'mores, and a...

Get ready for a day of holiday magic at the Indian Land Christmas Parade & Tree Lighting! This beloved annual event kicks off with a 5K run and fun walk, followed by a charming Christmas Village. As dusk settles, the highlight is the spectacular parade, bringing Santa's workshop to life...

Experience the heartwarming holiday traditions of Concord with the 28th Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony and the historic 97th Concord Christmas Parade. These beloved, free events bring the community together for festive fun, featuring a magical tree lighting, a vibrant parade, live music, children's activities, and a spectacular fireworks finale. It's...

Light up the night at the ChristmasVille Classic, an exciting glow-in-the-dark disc golf tournament winding through Old Town Rock Hill. This unique 18-hole adventure features glowing baskets and neon discs, creating a vibrant holiday atmosphere. Players can snag exclusive deals from local businesses at various holes, while spectators are welcome...

Join the festive kickoff to ChristmasVille as Santa Claus makes his grand arrival in Old Town. This magical ceremony at Fountain Park features dazzling performances by the Rock Hill Rockhettes and Showtime Theatre, setting a joyful tone for the holiday season with skits, singing, and dancing.

Experience the magic of the holiday season at A Holly Jolly Christmas Show. This event promises a festive atmosphere filled with holiday cheer. Details about specific attractions and activities are still to be announced, so check back for updates on this exciting Christmas celebration.

Experience the magic of the 81st Annual Mooresville Christmas Parade, a cherished tradition since 1944. This festive event features a grand entrance by local First Responders, followed by a vibrant procession of floats, marching bands, and dance troupes. Keep an eye out for the Grinch and, of course, Santa Claus...

Unleash your inner artist at this festive Christmas paint class. Participants will follow along with an instructor to create a unique holiday-themed painting, perfect for decorating or gifting. It's a wonderful opportunity to enjoy a creative and cheerful experience during the holiday season.

Gather at Lake Corriher Wilderness Park for a magical evening at Campfire Christmas. This event offers a delightful experience with Santa visits, s'mores by the campfire, and festive treats like cookies and hot cocoa. Children can enjoy creative crafts, and there's an opportunity to write letters to Santa.