Fun Things to Do in Charlotte at Christmas

Charlotte, North Carolina is an enchanting holiday wonderland with plenty of family-friendly events and activities throughout the city and its surrounding area. From sparkly light displays to Christmas markets and winter-themed villages with delicious goodies and festive holiday beverages, there is something for everyone in the family. Whether you’re a local looking for something to do with the kids or you’re planning a family-friendly winter getaway, there are plenty of things to do in Charlotte at Christmas to make the holiday season a memorable one for years to come.

Things to do in Charlotte at Christmas

Charlotte is known not only for its Southern charm, but as the largest city in the state of North Carolina, it offers much in the way of arts, entertainment, dining, and fun activities for the whole family. Christmas in Charlotte is no different–there’s plenty do to no matter your interests.

Charlotte Motor Speedway

If you’ve ever wanted to drive along a racetrack, you’re in luck! From mid-November through early January, Charlotte Motor Speedway is the hub for all things Christmas. From a dazzling light spectacle featuring approximately 5 million Christmas lights and a fun Christmas village to explore, the speedway is one of the must-do things to do in Charlotte at Christmas. The lights match the radio soundtrack for a totally immersive experience.

Charlotte at Christmas – Carowinds WinterFest

Each November and December, Carowinds – on the North and South Carolina border – is a great place to celebrate the holiday season. Guests can ice skate, enjoy live entertainment, snack on delicious holiday-themed food, and experience special events and attractions. Even the most basic rides feel special during WinterFest!

Carolina Holiday Light Spectacular

With over a million lights placed throughout a half-mile, paved walking trail, the Carolina Holiday Light Spectacular is the perfect way to spend a winter night out with the family. Visit with Santa, take a ride on the snow tube slide, or immerse yourself in interactive magical displays throughout the trail. For those who are seeking things to do in Charlotte at Christmas with delicious food trucks, activities for the kids, shopping and a festive atmosphere, this experience located in Ballantyne’s Backyard can’t be beat!

Sea of Lights at SEA Life Aquarium

Combine your family’s love of all things marine life, with their love of the holiday season and Sea of Lights at SEA Life Aquarium is the place to be. You’ll be surrounded by twinkling holiday lights and the underwater world of the ocean; a magical display. Interactive displays and special activities and events make Christmas at SEA Life Aquarium an experience you won’t want to miss.

The Polar Express at N.C. Transportation Museum

All Aboard; to the North Pole, of course! That’s where you’ll be headed if you board The Polar Express Train Ride at the North Carolina Museum of Transportation. Located in Spencer – about 45 minutes from Charlotte – the museum is home to The Polar Express, where you and your family will ride to the North Pole, meet Santa and, if you really, truly believe, receive your very own sleigh bell to take home!

McAdenville Christmastown

McAdenville Christmastown began in 1956 as a fun holiday tradition. Residents lit up their homes with holiday lights as just a fun thing to do for the community. The town is now known all over as Christmas Town USA. Each December, McAdenville, near Charlotte, attracts visitors from all over. Millions of lights illuminate the downtown area, trees, lake, and homes. Stop on through for the Yule Log Parade or set up camp for the tree lighting ceremony. Whichever you choose, you can’t go wrong.

Holidays at the Garden

Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden lights up for a stunning display throughout the grounds. Visitors can explore the gardens, gather around the outdoor fire pits, roast marshmallows, make s’mores, or snack on treats from local food vendors.

Christmas Village of Charlotte

Rest assured, the Charlotte Christmas Village is set to return in 2024; visit the website for updates as the market works to find its new home this year!

Where to Visit Santa in Charlotte at Christmas

Is it truly the holidays if you haven’t visited Santa? Grab the family, don your matching Christmas sweaters, and head to one of these spots for a picture with Santa and preserve those special holiday memories.

BassPro Shops, 8181 Concord Mills Boulevard, Concord
Cabela’s, 1000 Cabela’s Drive, Fort Mill, SC
Santa Photo Experience at Concord Mills, 8111 Concord Mills Blvd.
South Park Mall, 4400 Sharon Road, Charlotte
Northlake Mall, 6801 Northlake Mall Drive, Charlotte
Carolina Place Mall, 11025 Carolina Place Parkway

Outdoor Ice Skating in Charlotte

Ice skating seems like the quintessential holiday activity no matter where you live. It just feels Christmasy! Here are some great spots in the Charlotte area if you want to take your family ice skating.

Ice Skating at Camp North Pole

Camp North Pole is a 76-acre complex full of shopping, dining, and fun events for the community. It’s also home to an outdoor ice skating rink that’s open during the holiday season. Take advantage of the outdoor ice skating rink or sit by the fire pit enjoying a delicious seasonal beverage with the family.

Whitewater Center

From mid-November through February, the Whitewater Center is home to an outdoor ice rink encompassing over 24,000 square feet. With four separate skating areas, there’s a place for everyone in the family.

Light the Knights Festival at Truist Field

Light the Knights Festival sees Truist Field converted into a winter wonderland. Featuring a regulation sized ice rink, food stalls, a Christmas Market, holiday displays, and a view of the skyline, it’s definitely full of festive family fun.

Sip hot cocoa by an outdoor fire, ice skate against an illuminated Christmas lights backdrop, or visit any number of the aforementioned fun things to do in Charlotte at Christmas. Whichever you choose, you’re sure to make family memories that will last a lifetime.