10 things you need to do in and around Charlotte before the holiday season is over
Add Axios as your preferred source to
see more of our stories on Google.
christmas tree charlotte
Here are the events and holiday-themed activities you can’t miss this season – sorted chronologically, so you can hit them all. See you out there, and don’t forget to show us what you’re doing via #cltagenda.
The Polar Express Train Ride
Until December 22 | NC Transportation Museum | $30-36 | Tickets
Why you should go: The classic holiday story comes to life on an actual 1-hour+ long train ride filled with kids in pajamas, sweet treats and more. Each child will leave with the silver bell central to the story.
Charlotte Ballet’s Nutcracker
Until December 23 | Belk Theater | $25+ | Tickets
Why you should go: Jean-Pierre Bonnefoux’s take on the holiday classic includes fresh sets, stunning costumes and performances that will blow you away.
/2024/01/05/1704473875936.jpg)
Charlotte Christmas Village
Until December 24 | Romare Bearden Park | Free
Why you should go: The village is back for the second year in a row with glüwhein, fresh-fried mini doughnuts, German strudels and visits with Santa. See the Agenda’s take on how to experience the festival here.
Christmas Town USA
Until December 26 | McAdenville, North Carolina | Free
Why you should go: Take in 1.3 miles worth of beautifully decorated homes and yards from the comfort of your own car in this Charlotte-area tradition that’s going on 60+ years. Go on a weeknight if possible, as traffic increases tremendously Friday through Sunday.
/2024/01/05/1704473876693.jpg)
Gingerbread Lane
Until December 27 | The Ballantyne Hotel | Free
Why you should go: The display of handcrafted gingerbread houses isn’t restricted just to hotel guests. The public is welcome to visit any time until December 27 and vote on favorites for a minimum $1 donation. Proceeds benefit the Levine Children’s Hospital. While you’re there, enjoy hot chocolate, cider and toddies at the gingerbread hut.
/2024/01/05/1704473877062.jpg)
WinterFest
December 15-23, 26-30 | Carowinds | $22-28 | Tickets
Why you should go: Carowinds’ all-new holiday attraction includes sees the park transformed into a winter wonderland with over 5 million lights, ice skating, a cookie decorating station, live performances and tree lightings. Most rollercoasters are closed, but 16 kid-friendly rides are still open. See the Agenda guide here.
Holidays at the Garden
Until December 31 | Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden | $0-14.95 | Tickets
Why you should go: Take in the sight of the more than 600,000 lights spread across the grounds while you shop, enjoy live music, roast marshmallows and let the kids loose on the Holiday Discovery Trail. 5-9 p.m. daily.
/2024/01/05/1704473877619.jpg)
Speedway Christmas
Until December 31 | Charlotte Motor Speedway | $20-175 | Tickets
Why you should go: Drive under 3.5 miles of 3,000,000+ lights that have been programmed to a full lights-to-music experience before you visit the Christmas Village’s for the petting zoo, Bethlehem village and visits with Santa. Every Thursday through Sunday, park under the Speedway TV at 6:30 p.m. to enjoy holiday classics.
Holiday on Ice
Until January 7 | NASCAR Hall of Fame | $10+
Why you should go: The Uptown tradition is going on its 14th year, complete with hot chocolate, special events and more. See the Agenda guide here.
Winter Wonderland
Until January 8 | SouthPark Mall | $12-17 | Tickets
Why you should go: You’ll find plenty of holiday magic at the open-air ice skating rink, including holiday lights, Santa’s Pub, King of Pops’ Tree Elves, a carousel and more.
/2024/01/05/1704473878145.jpg)