Christmas Things To Do in Charlotte, NC - New for 2025

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Written By Tony

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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.

Winterfest at Carowinds

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

Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden lights up for Holidays at the Garden with millions of lights, dancing fountain shows, and glowing paths across the 4-acre grounds. Snap a photo at the dazzling Orchid Tree, warm up by outdoor fires, and browse seasonal bites and gifts at Big Leaf Café. Kids get extra magic with the lit-up Prairie Castle Playground, the Four Seasons Light Show, and holiday trackless train rides on select Saturdays. Look for visits with Santa on select Friday and Saturday evenings and live music on select nights. Grown-ups can slip into the adults-only speakeasy for exclusive holiday cocktails (additional $5 cover). Tickets (including flex options) are on sale now, and the season adds special dates like Jazz at the Garden, wreath workshops, Merry Market, Santa Paws, and Morning with Santa.

Speedway Christmas at Charlotte Motor Speedway

Speedway Christmas presented by Atrium Health turns Charlotte Motor Speedway into the Southeast’s largest drive-thru light show, with more than 5 million lights along a four-mile route that circles the iconic oval, pit road, and infield road course. It runs nightly, rain or shine, from Friday, November 21, 2025 through Sunday, January 4, 2026, 6:00–10:00 pm, with lights synchronized to holiday music on 101.3 FM and drive-in movies on the gigantic Speedway TV.

After your lap, head into the infield’s Christmas Village—free with your event ticket—on select dates for photos with Santa, a Race Car Selfie Station, Santa’s Workshop, an Ice Maze, merchandise and food vendors (plus a bar), a Lighted Tree Pathway, and the Atrium Health 360 Camera.

Pro tip: Friday and Saturday nights in December are the busiest; for quicker entry, go Sunday–Thursday and arrive early.

Buddy's Cocktail Workshop at Supperland Speakeasy

Supperland turns its downstairs speakeasy into a holiday tasting—“Buddy’s Cocktail Workshop”—with a whimsical four-course pairing of cocktails and dishes in an intimate, two-hour experience. Set inside the restored mid-century church in Plaza Midwood, the speakeasy offers twice-nightly seatings on select dates and a prepaid price of $175 per person.

Note: the speakeasy is down a flight of stairs (they’ll recreate the tasting upstairs in the bar upon request). Reservations are required; limited walk-ins may be available.

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Miracle at Backstage Lounge

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

Christmas Town U.S.A., in nearby McAdenville, turns the mill town west of Charlotte into a glowing holiday village December 1–26, 2025, with red-green-white displays shining nightly from 5:30–10:00 pm.

Kick things off at the Tree Lighting Ceremony on Monday, December 1 at 5:30 pm, when a McAdenville Elementary student “flips the switch.”

Don’t miss the 76th Yule Log Parade on Thursday, December 11—arrive early to line up near 100 Main St.; community singing begins at 5:30 pm. Make an evening of it with dinner and browsing in downtown (think Terra Mia Ristorante, 115 Craft & The River Room, Mona’s Boutique, Revolver Records, and Life Is Sweet). Whether you walk or drive, expect small-town charm, bell carols, and picture-perfect streets all season long.

Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer at the Children's Theatre of Charlotte

  • Map: Google Maps

  • Website: Link

  • Dates: Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer: Nov. 22 - Dec. 23

Children’s Theatre of Charlotte rings in the season with Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, running November 22–December 23, 2025 at the McColl Family Theatre. This one-act (about 60 minutes) musical lifts the classic TV special onto the stage—complete with Santa, Hermey, Bumble, Clarice, Yukon Cornelius, and a show-opening moment where Rudolph “flies” above the audience. It’s designed for all ages, with sensory-friendly and ASL-interpreted performances available.

On Saturday, December 6, ImaginOn hosts “Super Saturday” activities, plus a 2:00 PM backstage tour add-on for the 3:00 PM show ($5 per person, limited capacity). Families can also save with the theatre’s bundle offer when purchasing three or more shows together.

Note: the long-running Winter Wonderland Shop has been sunset; the theatre is exploring new ways to create meaningful holiday experiences.

Fourth Ward Holiday Sip and Stroll Home Tour

Fourth Ward Holiday Sip & Stroll + Home Tour returns December 4–6, 2025, from 5–9 pm with a self-guided, porch-crawl through Historic Fourth Ward featuring complimentary food and cocktail tastings and seasonal live music. Choose Sip & Stroll only ($30 day-specific; $40 flex) or upgrade to include guided interior access to three decorated private homes ($45 day-specific; $60 flex). Check in at W. 9th & N. Poplar Streets to receive your required guidebook; the event is rain or shine and typically sells out. Kids are welcome (ticket required if not carried), but no strollers inside homes and please leave pets at home. Limited neighborhood parking—rideshare or light rail is recommended. Presented by Friends of Fourth Ward with support from local hospitality partners and sponsors.

Charlotte Ballet’s Nutcracker

Enjoy a holiday classic with Charlotte Ballet’s Nutcracker at the Belk Theater, bringing Clara’s Christmas Eve adventure to life with Jean-Pierre Bonnefoux’s choreography and Tchaikovsky’s score performed live by the Charlotte Symphony Orchestra. Expect snowflakes in perfect harmony, a dazzling Land of Sweets, and the Sugar Plum Fairy in all her sparkle. Tickets are on sale now, with special performances and planning info available. For an elevated evening, add the Nutcracker VIP Package for access to the Founder’s Room, private restrooms, a drink voucher, holiday treats, Clara’s Candy Shoppe, a photo with a ballerina, a kids’ craft, a gift bag, and complimentary parking (performance tickets sold separately).

Tree Lighting Festival at Bank of America Stadium

Tree Lighting presented by Belk at Bank of America Stadium returns Tuesday, November 18, 2025, from 5:30–9:00 p.m., uniting the Carolina Panthers and Charlotte FC for a free, family-friendly celebration (mobile tickets required). The evening kicks off with a stage show and the lighting of a 50-foot Norway spruce from Newland, NC at 6:30 p.m., followed by concourse festivities from 7:00–9:00 p.m. featuring letter writing, hot-chocolate stations, winter crafts, meet-and-greets with Santa, and more. Check in at the Mint Street security screening near Lot 1 and the Residence Inn (410 S. Mint St.); parking is available at nearby independent lots and garages.

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The Gingerbread Lane at the Ballantyne Hotel

  • Map: Google Maps

  • Website: Link

  • Dates: Ice Skating Nov. 22 - Jan 4, 2026; Toy Drive Nov. 27 - Dec. 25; Gingerbread Lane Dec. 14-28 (Closed Christmas Day)

Gingerbread Lane and Cocoa House at The Ballantyne transforms the hotel into a holiday showcase of intricate gingerbread creations, with guest voting donations benefiting Atrium Health Levine Children’s Hospital. Don’t miss the life-size Cocoa House, open daily 9:00 AM–6:00 PM from December 14–28 (closed Dec 25) for hot cocoa and festive beverages, plus parking validation with your vote donation.

Extend the outing with nearby Ice Skating at The Amp at Ballantyne (Nov 22–Jan 4; 11115 Upper Avenue, two blocks from the hotel). The Ballantyne is also hosting a Children’s Toy Drive with CMPD from November 27–December 25—drop off new, unwrapped toys to spread some cheer.

Christmas at the Library (Billy Graham Library)

Christmas at the Billy Graham Library runs December 1–23, 2025, with free admission and parking (Mon–Thu 5–9 pm; Fri–Sat 5–10 pm). Highlights include a live Nativity (same hours as the event), a petting zoo Thu–Sat from 11 am–1 pm, and horse-drawn carriage rides around the grounds (approx. 15–18 minutes; $12 adults, $6 children; advance reservations recommended). Kids can enjoy Story Time every 30 minutes starting at 5 pm, and carolers perform nightly.

Savor a traditional Christmas Dinner on Thu–Sat with two seatings (5 pm and 7 pm; reservations required), then explore The Journey of Faith tour (last tour starts 1.5 hours before closing). Don’t miss seasonal treats like Mother Graham’s pound cake and hot apple cider, and holiday shopping at Ruth’s Attic bookstore.

Twinkling Tides at Sea Life Aquarium

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.

Bah Humbug! at Humbug

Bah Humbug! at Humbug (Charlotte) leans into the mischievous, darker side of the holidays—in good fun. Your $10 ticket is the cover for a reserved, two-hour seating featuring a new themed menu, fresh décor, and moody holiday vibes. Seating may be bar seats, tables, or lounge (assigned at arrival), party size is limited to four, and there are no refunds.

Running on multiple dates and times Dec. 2–30, 2025, Bah Humbug! takes place at 2501 The Plaza, Suite 1, Charlotte, with on-site parking. Tickets are required for entry; book your time slot, settle in, and toast the season—Krampus optional.

Sippin' Santa at the Royal Tot

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

  • Dates: Nov. 20, 2025 - Jan. 4, 2026; Mistletoe Market: Dec. 6, 13, & 20, 2025

Camp North Pole at Camp North End returns November 20–January 4 with an outdoor ice rink at the Ford Factory (400 Camp Rd, Charlotte). Regular hours are Mon–Thu 4–9 pm, Fri 4–10 pm, Sat 11 am–10 pm, Sun 11 am–9 pm, with expanded hours over Thanksgiving (Nov 26–29) and Winter Break (Dec 21–Jan 2). General admission is $18 (ages 10 and under $15) including skate rental; sessions are one hour and require a digital waiver. Warm up by the fire pit, sip hot seasonal drinks, and explore on-site eats and shops across the 76-acre campus.

Parking is plentiful (first 2 hours free at 120 Razades Way; free surface lots at 1776 Statesville Ave and 1801 N. Graham St), but expect high demand during Mistletoe Market on Saturdays, December 6, 13, and 20 from 2–7 pm—walk, bike, or rideshare if you can. Note key rink rules (no re-entry after skates are returned; no food/drink on ice; rink closes during inclement weather). Camp North Pole is not ADA accessible for skating, but spectators are welcome throughout Camp North End.

UCity Lights Winter Celebration!

UCity Lights Winter Celebration returns to The Shoppes at University Place on Saturday, November 22, 2025, from 4–8 pm (tree lighting at 7 pm). Presented by Truliant Federal Credit Union, this free, family-friendly evening features meet-and-greets with Santa and Mrs. Claus, ornament decorating, hot cocoa, “Polar Express” rides, and even a little snow by the lake. Come early to explore local shops and restaurants, then help count down as the towering tree lights up University City.

Carolina Holiday Light Spectacular at Ballantyne's Backyard

Carolina Holiday Light Spectacular returns to Ballantyne’s Backyard with a half-mile walking trail glowing with 1+ million lights, 25+ interactive scenes, and giant snow globes. New for 2025, the Winter Wonderland Carnival adds a Ferris Wheel, Bear Affair, Sooper Jet kiddie coaster, and Rapid Slide, while the Holiday Village brings boutiques, rotating food trucks, and festive sips. Open nightly November 28–December 30, 2025, from 5:30–10 pm (early close Christmas Eve; closed Christmas Day), with Santa on site every night through December 23.

Paths are concrete or decked (stroller- and wheelchair-friendly; note some inclines) and parking is free. Tickets start at $10, with a $39 VIP option that includes a souvenir mug with bottomless hot chocolate, access to the heated HO HO GLOW Lodge, VIP restrooms, and a special entrance; optional add-ons include a $20 interactive Snowflake Wand and $20 bundles for four carnival rides.

Whitewater Center Winter Activities

  • Map: Google Maps

  • Website: Link

  • Dates: Mid-November, 2025 - mid-February, 2026; dates vary by activity

Whitewater Center turns into Winter at Whitewater mid-November through mid-February, featuring Whitewater on Ice—a 24,000 sq ft rink with two ice trails, two free-skate zones, and an on-ice Airstream serving hot and cold beverages. Ice options include public skating (Single Activity pass from $25 or All-Access Day/Annual), 3-on-3 pond hockey, and Cask Curling (included with an Ice Skating pass; lane reservations required). For a splurge night, Craft & Curl pairs a three-course dinner with a curling session on select dates.

Off the ice, the illuminated Winter Trail winds through the woods with suspension bridges and family-friendly activities, while Night Pass favorites light up after dark—Wildwoods, Off Leash, skating, and Canyon Zips. Holiday shopping and sips pop up at the seasonal Outfitters Winter Pop Up at the Overlook (mid-November through December).

Polar Express at the North Carolina Transportation Museum

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.

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Check out our other posts about things to see and do in Charlotte or North Carolina!

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Truist Field Light the Knights Festival

Light the Knights Festival (Truist Field) returns for its 6th year with an NHL-sized outdoor ice rink, a 10-lane, 150-foot snow tubing hill, and a walk-through holiday light show set to music. Explore themed zones like Mrs. Claus’s Kitchen, Winter Wonderland, and Santa’s Workshop, then browse The Market in the outfield for gifts from local businesses, plus holiday treats and drinks throughout the ballpark.

All-Activities tickets (skate + tube) are sold in limited quantities each night and often sell out; once capacity is reached, only admission tickets remain. Advance purchase is strongly recommended. A waiver applies for skating and the ice slide; follow posted rules and “skate with care.”

The 79th Annual Novant Health Thanksgiving Parade

Novant Health Thanksgiving Eve Parade (Uptown Charlotte) steps off Wednesday, November 26, 2025 at 5:45 pm and airs live on WCCB at 6:00 pm. The route runs along Tryon Street from 9th Street to Good Samaritan Way, with food and drink vendors lining the street; the parade goes on rain or shine. Bring your own chairs for free curbside viewing or purchase VIP seating, and consider joining the fun as a volunteer balloon handler or costume walker. Ample Center City parking and transit options (LYNX Blue Line, CityLYNX Gold Line, B-cycle) make access easy.

Festival of Trees in Belmont, N.C.

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. Free to attend, open daily, and easy to pair with downtown shopping and dining.

Best Christmas Things To Do in Charlotte, NC:

  1. Winterfest at Carowinds  

  2. Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden’s Holidays at the Garden  

  3. Speedway Christmas at Charlotte Motor Speedway  

  4. Buddy's Cocktail Workshop at Supperland Speakeasy

  5. Miracle at Backstage Lounge  

  6. McAdenville, Christmas Town USA  

  7. Fourth Ward Holiday Sip and Stroll Home Tour

  8. Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer at Children's Theatre of Charlotte

  9. Charlotte Ballet’s Nutcracker  

  10. Tree Lighting Festival at Bank of America Stadium  

  11. The Gingerbread Lane at the Ballantyne Hotel  

  12. Christmas at the Library (Billy Graham Library)  

  13. Twinkling Tides at Sea Life Aquarium  

  14. Bah Humbug! at Humbug

  15. Sippin' Santa at the Royal Tot  

  16. Ice Skating at Camp North Pole  

  17. UCity Lights Winter Celebration  

  18. Carolina Holiday Light Spectacular at Ballantyne's Backyard  

  19. Whitewater Center Winter Activities  

  20. Polar Express at the North Carolina Transportation Museum  

  21. Truist Field Light the Knights Festival  

  22. The 79th Annual Novant Health Thanksgiving Parade

  23. Festival of Trees in Belmont, N.C.

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