Charlotte’s December Delights: Your Holiday Event Guide
Charlotte truly shines during December, transforming into a festive wonderland filled with dazzling lights, unique markets, and heartwarming performances. Whether you’re seeking family fun, a romantic evening, or a dose of holiday cheer, the Queen City offers an abundance of events to make your season bright.
Dazzling Light Displays & Festive Experiences
Prepare to be enchanted as Charlotte’s iconic venues illuminate the night with spectacular holiday light displays and immersive experiences. Each location offers a unique way to celebrate the season.
Speedway Christmas
Get ready for a thrilling drive-through lights experience at the Charlotte Motor Speedway, running from November 17 to January 7. Beyond the impressive light show, families can enjoy an ice skating rink, a petting zoo, and carnival rides. This expansive event is a holiday staple, offering something for every age.
Carowinds WinterFest
Select nights from November 17 to January 1, Carowinds transforms into a magical WinterFest. Visitors can enjoy holiday-themed rides, live entertainment, stunning decorations, and a towering Christmas tree. Ice skating is also available, making it a comprehensive holiday theme park experience.
Light the Knights Festival & Charlotte Christmas Village
From November 22 to December 31, Truist Field in Uptown hosts the Light the Knights Festival. This event combines a dazzling light display with a holiday market, ice skating, and snow tubing. Within the festival, you’ll find the Charlotte Christmas Village, offering German-inspired food, crafts, and festive goods.
Holidays at the Garden
Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden glows from November 24 to December 31. This enchanting walk-through experience features twinkling lights, festive displays, and crackling fire pits for s’mores. Enjoy a ride on the popular Twinkle Train, perfect for younger guests and a charming way to see the lights.
Christmas Town USA (McAdenville)
Just a short drive from Charlotte, McAdenville transforms into Christmas Town USA from December 1-26. This charming town is renowned for its spectacular, free drive-through light display, attracting visitors from all over the region to witness its festive splendor.
Winter WonderFEST
Catch the magic at Promenade on Providence with Winter WonderFEST from December 1-3. This short but sweet event brings fake snow, caroling, and a visit from Santa, creating a festive atmosphere for the whole family.
To help you choose, here’s a quick comparison of Charlotte’s major light-centric holiday attractions:
| Event Name | Key Attractions | Family Friendly | Cost Factor |
|---|---|---|---|
| Speedway Christmas | Drive-thru lights, ice skating, petting zoo | High | Medium-High |
| Carowinds WinterFest | Theme park rides, live shows, ice skating | High | High |
| Light the Knights Festival | Walk-thru lights, ice skating, snow tubing, market | High | Medium-High |
| Holidays at the Garden | Walk-thru lights, twinkle train, s’mores | Medium-High | Medium |
| Christmas Town USA | Drive-thru lights, charming town atmosphere | High | Low (Free entry) |
Charming Holiday Markets
Find unique gifts, local crafts, and delicious treats at Charlotte’s festive holiday markets, perfect for last-minute shopping or simply soaking in the seasonal cheer.
Christkindlmarkt at The Olde Mecklenburg Brewery
Weekends from November 17 to December 17, The Olde Mecklenburg Brewery hosts its popular German-inspired Christkindlmarkt. Enjoy authentic German food, beer, and a variety of vendors selling handcrafted goods in a lively outdoor setting.
VTGCLT Pop & Mistletoe Market
Camp North End is a hub for local makers and vintage finds. VTGCLT Pop runs from November 24 to December 23, offering a curated selection of gifts. Additionally, the Mistletoe Market on December 2, 9, and 16 provides an outdoor shopping experience with local vendors and holiday spirit.
Enchanting Performances
Immerse yourself in the arts with classic holiday performances, bringing stories and music to life on Charlotte’s stages.
The Nutcracker by Charlotte Ballet
A beloved holiday tradition, Charlotte Ballet’s “The Nutcracker” graces the Knight Theater stage from December 8-23. Experience the magic of Clara’s journey with the Sugar Plum Fairy and the Land of Sweets, accompanied by live orchestral music.
Miracle on 34th Street
Catch the heartwarming stage adaptation of “Miracle on 34th Street” at CPCC’s Dale F. Halton Theater, running from December 1-17. This classic tale reminds us of the true spirit of Christmas through Santa Claus’s quest to prove his identity.
Amahl and the Night Visitors by Opera Carolina
Opera Carolina presents Gian Carlo Menotti’s “Amahl and the Night Visitors” from December 7-9 at CPCC’s Parr Center. This enchanting one-act opera tells the story of a young shepherd boy and his mother who host the Three Kings on their journey to Bethlehem.
Unique Excursions & Family Fun
Venture a little further for memorable experiences that add an extra spark to your holiday season.
Magic of Christmas at N.C. Transportation Museum
Located in Spencer, NC, a short drive from Charlotte, the N.C. Transportation Museum hosts its “Magic of Christmas” on select dates from December 2-23. Enjoy a festive train ride, meet Santa, and explore holiday-decorated exhibits, perfect for train enthusiasts and families.
FAQs
- Are most holiday events in Charlotte family-friendly?
Yes, a vast majority of Charlotte’s December events, particularly the light displays and markets, are designed with families in mind, offering attractions for all ages. - Do I need to buy tickets in advance for popular events?
For ticketed events like Carowinds WinterFest, The Nutcracker, or Light the Knights, purchasing tickets online in advance is highly recommended, especially for weekend dates, to secure your spot and often save time. - What are the best options for outdoor holiday activities?
Outdoor options abound, including Speedway Christmas (drive-through), Light the Knights (ice skating, snow tubing), Holidays at the Garden (walk-through lights), McAdenville (drive-through), and the various outdoor holiday markets. - Are there any free holiday events in Charlotte this December?
Yes, Christmas Town USA in McAdenville offers a free drive-through light experience. Many smaller community events or portions of markets might also offer free entry with shopping opportunities.
With such a vibrant array of events, December in Charlotte promises memorable moments for everyone. Plan ahead, embrace the festive spirit, and enjoy all the Queen City has to offer this holiday season!
Charlotte December Delights Guide
