The holidays are the most magical time of the year in Charlotte. Whether you’re searching for twinkling light trails, cozy Christmas markets, festive shows, or ice skating under the stars, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Here’s your ultimate 2025 holiday bucketlist across Charlotte and the surrounding areas.

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LIGHTS & HOLIDAY DISPLAYS

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Speedway Christmas

When: November 21, 2025 - January 4, 2026 | 6 PM - 10 PM
Where: Charlotte Motor Speedway, Concord, NC
The Southeast’s largest drive-thru light show returns with over 5 million lights spanning a 4-mile course. Tune into 101.3 FM for synchronized music, enjoy drive-in movies, and experience pure holiday magic.
Why You Should Go:

• 5 million lights across an iconic race track
• Family-friendly with synchronized holiday music
• Drive-in movies and festive atmosphere

More info: charlottemotorspeedway.com

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Carolina Holiday Light Spectacular

When: November 28 - December 30, 2025 | 5:30 PM - 10 PM
Where: Ballantyne’s Backyard, Charlotte, NC
This half-mile walk-through experience features over 1 million lights, interactive scenes, a Ferris wheel, and holiday rides. Tickets start at $10 and the event draws over 200,000 visitors each year.
Why You Should Go:

• Immersive light trail with carnival rides
• Over 1 million lights and snow globes
• Perfect for families and holiday photos

More info: ncholidaylights.com

Christmas Wonderland of Lights at Zootastic Park

When: November 21, 2025 - January 1, 2026 | Nightly
Where: Zootastic Park, Troutman, NC
A magical drive-through light show with an animal night safari, walk-through attractions, and zoo experiences. Admission is $15 and includes access to all activities.
Why You Should Go:

• Drive-through lights plus zoo encounters
• Animal night safari and holiday fun
• Affordable family-friendly outing

More info: zootasticpark.com

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Christmas Town USA (McAdenville)

When: December 1 - 26, 2025 | 5:30 PM - 10 PM
Where: Downtown McAdenville, NC
Known as one of the most famous small-town light displays in America, McAdenville glows with thousands of red, white, and green lights every night in December.
Why You Should Go:

• Iconic small-town light tradition
• Walk or drive through glowing streets
• Free admission and nostalgic holiday charm

More info: townofmcadenville.org

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UCity Lights Winter Celebration

When: November 22, 2025 | 4 PM - 8 PM
Where: The Shoppes at University Place, Charlotte, NC
Enjoy family fun, Santa visits, crafts, hot cocoa, and a lakeside tree lighting at 7 PM.
Why You Should Go:

• Free community event by the lake
• Santa visits and ornament crafts
• Tree lighting and live entertainment

More info: universitycitypartners.org

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ICE SKATING & WINTER ACTIVITIES

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Ice Skating at Camp North Pole

When: November 20, 2025 - January 4, 2026
Where: Camp North End, 300 Camp Rd, Charlotte, NC
Camp North End transforms into Camp North Pole with ice skating, fire pits, hot drinks, and local food vendors. Perfect for an evening out with friends or family.
Why You Should Go:

• Scenic outdoor rink and fire pit seating
• Local food and drink options on-site
• Festive photo ops at Charlotte’s creative hub

More info: camp.nc

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Winter at Whitewater Center

When: Mid-November through Winter 2025
Where: Whitewater Center, Charlotte, NC
Enjoy ice skating, winter trails, tree lots, races, and a pop-up market at this seasonal celebration.
Why You Should Go:

• Outdoor skating and adventure activities
• Family-friendly winter fun
• Market, lights, and cozy winter vibes

More info: whitewater.org

The Chutes at Crowders Spring

When: November 29, 2025 | Sessions at 6, 7, and 8 PM
Where: Crowders Spring, Gastonia, NC
An exhilarating snow tubing experience with three nightly sessions limited to 50 people each. Arrive early to check in and catch the safety video.
Why You Should Go:

• Snow tubing in the Charlotte region
• Small sessions for a personal experience
• Perfect family winter adventure

More info: crowderscamps.com

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MARKETS & SHOPPING EVENTS

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Southern Christmas Show

When: November 13 - 23, 2025
Where: The Park Expo & Conference Center, Charlotte, NC
The 58th Annual Southern Christmas Show returns with over 400 merchants, local treats, décor, and the Santa’s Workshop theme.
Why You Should Go:

• Largest holiday show in North America
• Over 400 merchants and festive shopping
• Great for gifts, décor, and family fun

More info: southernchristmasshow.com

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Mistletoe Market

When: December 6, 13, and 20, 2025 | 2 PM - 7 PM
Where: Camp North End, Charlotte, NC
Vintage Charlotte, Studio Cultivate, and CampFam host this beloved market for three Saturdays in December with vendors, bites, and seasonal surprises.
Why You Should Go:

• Holiday shopping and festive atmosphere
• Rotating local vendors each weekend
• Perfect for handmade gifts and seasonal fun

More info: camp.nc

OMB Christmas Market (LoSo & Ballantyne)

When: November 28 - December 21, 2025
Where: Olde Mecklenburg Brewery, Charlotte, NC
Two locations host this four-weekend market with 50+ vendors, Gluhwein, Santa appearances, and cozy biergarten lights.
Why You Should Go:

• Authentic German-style Christmas market
• Santa visits every Saturday
• Food, drinks, and local crafts

More info: ombbeer.com

VTGCLT Pop

When: November 14 - December 23, 2025
Where: 1942 East 7th Street, Charlotte, NC
The Vintage Charlotte holiday shop pops up with rotating local vendors, handmade gifts, and festive finds.
Why You Should Go:

• Local artisan holiday pop-up
• Great spot for unique gifts
• Extended hours through Christmas

More info: vintage-charlotte.com

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SHOWS & PERFORMANCES

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Nutcracker by Charlotte Ballet

When: December 5 - 21, 2025
Where: Belk Theater at Blumenthal Performing Arts Center
A timeless Charlotte tradition with live music by the Charlotte Symphony and Tchaikovsky’s classic score.
Why You Should Go:

• Iconic holiday ballet performance
• Live orchestra and stunning choreography
• Perfect festive night out downtown

More info: charlotteballet.org

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Christmas at The Carolina Theatre

When: November 22 - December 20, 2025
Where: The Carolina Theatre, Charlotte, NC
After decades, The Carolina returns for its first holiday season with live Christmas music, classic movies, and new productions.
Why You Should Go:

• Historic theater’s grand holiday return
• Live music and movie experiences
• Nostalgic and heartwarming Charlotte tradition

More info: thecarolina.com

FAMILY FUN & FESTIVALS

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Light the Knights Festival

When: November 26, 2025 - January 1, 2026
Where: Truist Field, Charlotte, NC
A family-favorite featuring ice skating, snow tubing, light displays, treats, and local shopping.
Why You Should Go:

• Ice skating and snow tubing downtown
• Holiday market and photo ops
• Perfect for families and date nights

More info: milb.com

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Holidays at the Garden

When: November 28, 2025 - January 4, 2026 | 5 PM - 10 PM
Where: Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden, Belmont, NC
Millions of lights, festive food, and glowing fountains create a magical winter escape at the gardens.
Why You Should Go:

• Stunning botanical light displays
• Warm drinks and cozy fire pits
• Perfect holiday date night destination

More info: danielstoweconservancy.org

High Seas Golf: Pirates Christmas

When: November 14, 2025 - January 1, 2026 | 5 PM - 10 PM
Where: High Seas Golf, Charlotte, NC
Mini golf meets holiday lights with over 500,000 sparkling bulbs creating a festive adventure.
Why You Should Go:

• 500,000 lights on a mini golf course
• Family-friendly activity every night
• Unique holiday twist on golf fun

More info: highseasgolf.com

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The Chickadee Hill Farms Annual Tree Festival

When: November 28 - December 14, 2025 | 4 PM - 8 PM
Where: Chickadee Hill Farms, Troutman, NC
A heartwarming experience with 60 raffle trees, Santa, carnival games, food vendors, and the Grinch Experience.
Why You Should Go:

• Win decorated Christmas trees
• Holiday lights, animals, and games
• Family tradition worth the drive

More info: chickadeehillfarms.com

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WinterFest at Carowinds

When: Select Dates, November 28, 2025 - January 3, 2026 | 11 AM - 7 PM
Where: Carowinds Amusement Park, Charlotte, NC
A seasonal transformation with rides, holiday shows, festive food, and the new Snoopy’s Racing Railway.
Why You Should Go:

• Thrill rides meet holiday magic
• Carolers, lights, and themed food
• Family fun all season long

More info: carowinds.com

TREE LIGHTINGS & COMMUNITY EVENTS

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Carolina Panthers & Charlotte FC Tree Lighting

When: November 18, 2025 | 5:30 PM - 9 PM
Where: Bank of America Stadium, Charlotte, NC
A beloved tradition featuring live entertainment, hot cocoa, and the lighting of a 50-foot Norway Spruce.
Why You Should Go:

• Iconic free Charlotte holiday event
• Live show and festive family fun
• Meet Santa and enjoy holiday crafts

More info: panthers.com

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Fourth Ward Holiday Sip and Stroll

When: December 4 - 6, 2025 | 5 PM - 9 PM
Where: Historic Fourth Ward, Charlotte, NC
A porch-crawl-style tour through decorated Victorian homes featuring cocktails, food tastings, and live music.
Why You Should Go:

• Beautiful historic holiday stroll
• Seasonal drinks and local bites
• Limited-time community favorite

More info: fourthwardclt.org

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POP-UP EXPERIENCES

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Christmas Pop-Up Bars (Stay Tuned)

Charlotte’s favorite Christmas pop-up bars are returning soon. From winter wonderlands to festive speakeasies, stay tuned for our full list of holiday bar takeovers coming this season.

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From sparkling light shows and ice skating rinks to cozy Christmas markets and timeless performances, Charlotte transforms into a winter wonderland each holiday season. Plan your adventures early, grab a hot cocoa, and make unforgettable memories all across the Queen City.

Follow @CLTBucketlist for more holiday events, festive guides, and local experiences around Charlotte.