Hello, North Carolina!
It’s that magical time of year again, and the Tar Heel State is gearing up to fill your weekends with all sorts of festive fun! As we transition from fall to winter, there’s no shortage of holiday spirit in the air. Check out these delightful activities to mark on your December calendar!
Winterfest at Carowinds
Ready to feel the holiday magic? Carowinds, the state’s beloved theme park, is transforming into a bona fide winter wonderland, and it kicks off this Friday, November 15th, 2024! Experience a dazzling lineup of activities, from ice skating to live entertainment, plus scrumptious holiday eats. And don’t forget the evening Winterfest Wonderland Parade—it’s sure to be a highlight with its gorgeous floats and festive tunes! This sparkling event runs until January 4, 2025. For tickets and all the info you need, check out their website.
Kannapolis Celebration of Lights
Prepare to be enchanted as Village Park in Kannapolis lights up with hundreds of thousands of dazzling lights starting Saturday, November 16th. This annual wonder is perfect for families, featuring the Winterland Express train, a charming Double Decker Carousel, and a warm spot to roast marshmallows. Plus, get creative with holiday crafts and enjoy live entertainment! Park admission is free, but rides on the train and carousel are just $2 each. It’s running through December 30th, so mark your calendars!
N.C. Chinese Lantern Festival
If you’re looking for a mesmerizing experience, head over to the Koka Booth Amphitheatre in Cary for the Chinese Lantern Festival starting Saturday, November 16th, 2024. For those who appreciate beautiful artistry, this is a must-see, with stunning light displays that showcase traditional Chinese culture. And as the icing on the cake, enjoy nightly performances! This festival lights up the scene until January 12, 2025.
The Southern Christmas Show
Calling all holiday shoppers! The largest Christmas show in North America is back at the Charlotte Expo Center from November 14th through November 24th. Mingle with local artisans, shop for one-of-a-kind gifts, and sip on a fine selection of wines while you wander through a sea of holiday decor. This festive tradition is not to be missed!
Hidden Battleship Tour
For those interested in a more adventurous outing, check out the Hidden Battleship Tour at the Battleship North Carolina happening this weekend. Experience a behind-the-scenes look at unrestored areas of the ship on November 16th. The tour is organized into small groups, allowing for a unique exploration of the vessel, but be prepared to navigate some tight spaces and ladders. Tickets are $60, and since these tours are limited, be sure to grab yours before they’re gone!
Yadkin Yuletide Sippin’ Tour
Wine lovers will be thrilled to hear about the Yadkin Yuletide Sippin’ Tour. Running through December 31st, this delightful event allows you to taste wines from nine different wineries in the beautiful Yadkin Valley. Tickets are $100 and include tastings at all participating wineries, plus a custom ornament! It’s the perfect way to explore the region known as North Carolina’s “mini Napa Valley.”
Carolina Renaissance Festival
Step into a different era at the Carolina Renaissance Festival in Huntersville, happening every weekend until November 24th. Indulge in classic entertainment like jousting knights and mesmerizing mermaid shows, alongside an open-air market filled with unique crafts. And, of course, you can enjoy tasty treats like turkey legs! This is a wonderful opportunity for families to immerse themselves in fun and history.
Reopening of State Parks
As a bonus, five state parks in North Carolina have reopened following closures from those pesky storms. Crowders Mountain, Gorges, Grandfather Mountain, Lake Norman, and Rendezvous Mountain State Parks are now welcoming visitors again, so be sure to enjoy the great outdoors!
There you have it—plenty of festive activities and events to bring the magic of the holidays to life right here in North Carolina! Make sure you gather your family and friends for some unforgettable weekend adventures!
