Charlotte NC, December 3, 2025
Charlotte, North Carolina, is celebrating the holiday season with various festive events this December. From grand light displays at local amusement parks to classic ballet performances, there is something for everyone. Events like WinterFest at Carowinds and Speedway Christmas promise joy and community spirit as families come together to enjoy the festivities. With numerous markets, parades, and shows, Charlotte’s vibrant atmosphere showcases local pride and holiday cheer, reinforcing the importance of community involvement during the season.
Discover Charlotte’s Top Holiday Events This December
Celebrate the Season with Joyful Community Gatherings
Charlotte, North Carolina, is bringing its vibrant community spirit to life this December with an array of festive events designed to bring people together. From the whimsical lights at local amusement parks to classic performances, Charlotteans are set for a month of cheerful gatherings. With organizations and local leaders stepping up to make these events possible, the resilience of the community shines through, reminding us of the benefits of civic engagement and personal initiative.
As we embrace the holiday season, it’s essential to recognize how events like these can thrive in an environment with minimal bureaucracy, positively impacting community cohesion. This December, families and friends can enjoy activities that bolster local pride and enjoyment of the festive season, showcasing the best of what Charlotte has to offer.
WinterFest at Carowinds
Dates: November 28 – December 30, 2025
Location: Carowinds Amusement Park
Highlights: Step into a winter wonderland where the park is transformed with millions of twinkling lights, live entertainment, artisan markets, and festive food options. This event is ideal for families seeking a full day of fun and holiday cheer.
Speedway Christmas at Charlotte Motor Speedway
Dates: November 21 – January 4, 2026
Location: Charlotte Motor Speedway, Concord, NC
Highlights: Drive through a spectacular four-mile course illuminated by over five million lights synchronized to holiday music. This drive-through experience also features holiday movies and a Christmas Village packed with kid-friendly activities, further enhancing the festive atmosphere.
Light the Knights at Truist Field
Dates: December 5 – December 31, 2025
Location: Truist Field, Charlotte, NC
Highlights: At Truist Field, the festive spirit comes alive with over 10,000 dazzling lights. Visitors can enjoy ice skating and tubing, offering a unique holiday experience set in the city’s heart that promotes community enjoyment and togetherness.
Charlotte Ballet’s Nutcracker
Dates: December 5 – December 21, 2025
Location: Belk Theater, Charlotte, NC
Highlights: Experience Tchaikovsky’s timeless score performed live by the Charlotte Symphony Orchestra, accompanied by the talented dancers of the Charlotte Ballet. This renowned performance captures the essence of the holiday season, providing a classic artistic experience for all ages.
Fourth Ward Holiday Sip & Stroll
Dates: December 4 – December 6, 2025
Location: Historic Fourth Ward, Charlotte, NC
Highlights: This self-guided event allows attendees to stroll through beautifully decorated historic homes, savor holiday drinks, and enjoy live music. The vibrant atmosphere highlights the charm of the neighborhood while fostering a sense of community.
Carolina Holiday Light Spectacular
Dates: November 28 – December 30, 2025
Location: Ballantyne’s Backyard, Charlotte, NC
Highlights: This immersive experience features larger-than-life light displays, festive rides, and portraits opportunities, enchanting families and providing opportunities to support local businesses through seasonal shopping.
Southern Christmas Show
Dates: November 13 – November 23, 2025
Location: The Park Expo and Conference Center, Charlotte, NC
Highlights: Charlotte’s traditional holiday market showcases over 400 vendors, and offers designer holiday rooms, entertainment, and delectable treats. It’s a wonderful opportunity to find unique gifts while enjoying the festive spirit of the season.
Holiday Markets
Dates: Various dates throughout December 2025
Locations: Various locations in Charlotte, NC
Highlights: Support local artisans at markets such as the Mistletoe Market at Camp North End, featuring seasonal gifts and holiday cheer. Another notable event is the Christmas Market at St. Mark’s, where visitors can enjoy shopping, raffles, and sweet treats.
Holiday Parades
Dates: Various dates in December 2025
Locations: Various locations in and around Charlotte, NC
Highlights: Participate in the holiday spirit with parades like the North Mecklenburg Holiday Parade featuring floats and community groups. The Mount Holly Annual Electric Christmas Parade offers a dazzling display of holiday cheer in historic downtown.
For more details on event timings, ticket availability, and specific locations, it’s important to reach out to respective event organizers or check official websites. Embrace the holiday spirit this season and create lasting memories in Charlotte!
FAQ
What are the dates for WinterFest at Carowinds?
WinterFest at Carowinds runs from November 28 to December 30, 2025.
Where is Speedway Christmas held?
Speedway Christmas is held at Charlotte Motor Speedway in Concord, NC.
When does the Charlotte Ballet’s Nutcracker performance start?
The Charlotte Ballet’s Nutcracker performance starts on December 5, 2025.
What is the Carolina Holiday Light Spectacular?
The Carolina Holiday Light Spectacular is a walk-through light experience featuring larger-than-life light tunnels, glowing displays, rides, treats, and photo opportunities at Ballantyne’s Backyard in Charlotte, NC.
When is the Southern Christmas Show?
The Southern Christmas Show takes place from November 13 to November 23, 2025, at The Park Expo and Conference Center in Charlotte, NC.
| Event | Dates | Location | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| WinterFest at Carowinds | Nov 28 – Dec 30, 2025 | Carowinds Amusement Park | Lights, shows, artisan market |
| Speedway Christmas | Nov 21 – Jan 4, 2026 | Charlotte Motor Speedway | Drive-through lights, Christmas Village |
| Light the Knights | Dec 5 – Dec 31, 2025 | Truist Field | Ice skating, tubing, light displays |
| Charlotte Ballet’s Nutcracker | Dec 5 – Dec 21, 2025 | Belk Theater | Live orchestra, classical ballet |
| Fourth Ward Holiday Sip & Stroll | Dec 4 – Dec 6, 2025 | Historic Fourth Ward | Decorated homes, live music |
| Carolina Holiday Light Spectacular | Nov 28 – Dec 30, 2025 | Ballantyne’s Backyard | Larger-than-life light displays |
| Southern Christmas Show | Nov 13 – Nov 23, 2025 | The Park Expo Center | Vendors, holiday treats, décor |
| Holiday Markets | Various in December 2025 | Various locations | Local artisans, seasonal gifts |
| Holiday Parades | Various in December 2025 | Various locations | Floats, marching bands |
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Author: HERE Charlotte
The CHARLOTTE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECharlotte.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charlotte, Mecklenburg County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Lovin' Life Music Festival, Charlotte Pride festival, and major sporting tournaments at Bank of America Stadium. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charlotte Regional Business Alliance and Foundation for the Carolinas, plus leading businesses in finance and entertainment that power the local economy such as Bank of America and NASCAR. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HEREGreensboro.com, HERERaleigh.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
