Charlotte Welcomes Holiday Season with Exciting Events After Thanksgiving

Charlotte’s Holiday Weekend: Fun Awaits After Thanksgiving!

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The smell of turkey has faded, and holiday cheer is officially setting in! If you’re looking for ways to spend your weekend after Thanksgiving, you’re in luck—Charlotte has plenty to offer. So grab your friends and family, and let’s explore what’s happening in the Queen City!

Shop Small Saturday in South End

What better way to kick off the holiday shopping season than by supporting local businesses? Dive into the festive spirit at Shop Small Saturday in South End, featuring over 120 local vendors showcasing everything from handmade crafts to tasty treats! It’s a perfect opportunity to find unique gifts while making a positive impact on the local economy. Don’t miss out on this chance to shop small and make a big difference!

A Holiday Market with Thrift Pony

If vintage is more your style, head to the holiday market hosted by Thrift Pony. With over 50 second-hand and vintage vendors on hand, you’re sure to find one-of-a-kind treasures. The market takes place at the Ford Building from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m.. What could be better than shopping and discovering charming items while supporting local artisans?

Get Ready for Some Carolina Football!

For all the sports fans in the area, the Carolina Panthers are back at home! Join them at the Bank as they take on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Kickoff is at 4 p.m., and tickets start at only $53. Grab your crew, wear your Panthers colors, and cheer on your team! Who knows? This could be the game that turns the season around!

Light the Knights Festival: A Holiday Spectacle!

Ready for some holiday magic? Head to Uptown for the Light the Knights Festival! Experience enchanting light shows, live entertainment, delicious holiday treats, and of course, Santa! This festival captures the joy of the holiday season, with shopping opportunities and even snow! It’s fun for the whole family, so make sure to stop by and take in the festive atmosphere!

Speedway Christmas: A Dazzling Display!

Witness breathtaking holiday displays at Speedway Christmas—and we’re not talking about your average decorations! With over 4 million lights illuminating the Charlotte Motor Speedway, this is a must-see event. Bring your loved ones and enjoy the spectacle that truly captures the essence of the holidays!

Santa’s Back at Carowinds!

The magic continues with Santa Claus making a special appearance at Carowinds! Enjoy amusement park rides, live entertainment, and all the holiday cheer you can handle until January 4. With tickets starting at just $33, it’s a great way to spend a day with family and friends creating wonderful memories!

Ice Skating Returns to the Whitewater Center!

If you’re in the mood for some outdoor fun, lace up your skates because ice skating has returned to the Whitewater Center! The rink spans over 24,000 sq. ft., split into four distinct skating areas, including two ice trails and two free skate zones. Whether you’re a pro or a newbie, it’s time to glide and twirl your way into the season—this ice-skating fun is available through mid-February!

Get excited, Charlotte! With so many activities planned for this weekend, there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate the holiday season. Whether you’re shopping, cheering on your team, or enjoying festive gatherings, make the most of every moment!

So gather your loved ones, embrace the joy of the season, and head out to enjoy everything Charlotte has to offer!