When it comes to Christmas in Charlotte NC, the city has so much to offer. Whether you are looking for a new experience or want some festive favorites, there are plenty of options for everyone. So make plans to brave the cold and discover what is happening in Charlotte this December. It’s more fun than you can imagine!
A Cultural Christmas
If you’re looking for an unconventional way to spend Christmas, check out the Charlotte Ballet’s production of The Nutcracker. This is a ballet about a girl named Clara who receives a nutcracker for Christmas. (They say it was originally based on a German folktale.) The story is about a battle between the nutcracker and an army of mice led by the Rat King, who has stolen all the holiday toys from under the tree. It’s based on E.T.A Hoffmann’s 1816 short story “The Nutcracker and Mouse King”. To complement the ballet, check out Jazz Room Duke Ellingtons Nutcracker Swings at The Booth Playhouse. Or, for a modern take, The Hip Hop Nutcracker at Blumenthal Performing Arts is super cool and funky.
The Whitewater Center
The Whitewater Center has four skating areas, including ice trails and free skating areas. Zoom around the rinks, drink hot chocolate and take a walk along the trails lit up with fairy lights for a winter wonderland experience.
A Holiday Music Party
On December 19, the Tosco Music Holiday Party will put on an evening of festive music and singalongs at the Knights Theatre.
A Christmas Carol
A Christmas Carol is showing at Theatre Charlotte until December 18. Directed by Josh Logsdon, the holiday tradition is sure to be a hit in its 16th year with a cast and production team who have been rehearsing for months.
Christmas Market In Camp North End
Mistletoe Market is open on December 4th, 11th and 18th from 4 pm to 8 pm this year. The outdoor market is a festival of entertainment with pups in sweaters, marshmallows by the fire, live music and the whole place adorned with Christmas lights.
Holiday Symphony
Charlotte Symphony Cirque De Noel is an intriguing blend of symphony and circus talent that is sure to thrill festive audiences. Grab your tickets soon for the show that is only on for three consecutive nights starting on December 21.
Lake Norman Boat Parade
The Lake Norman Lighted Christmas Boat Parade sets sail from Blythe Landing and heads to Ramsey Creek Park and the Duke Energy Explorium on December 17.
Rooftop Igloos
The rooftop igloo with stunning views of the city at Merchant and Trade is a unique Christmas experience. Reservations for private dining are recommended as this is an in-demand romantic date for the holidays. Originally designed during Covid as a social distancing solution, it was so popular it’s here to stay.
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Holiday Pageant
Best Christmas Pageant Ever: The Musical by the Children’s Theatre of Charlotte is selling tickets for shows at McColl Family Theatre. through to 22nd December.
Olde Meck Market
The Olde Mecklenburg Brewery’s Christmas Market (Weihnachtsmarkt) is a fun way to spend a weekend. Over 40 vendors are expected, with plenty of beer, spiced wine, music, shopping and lights. If you ever wanted to see a German-style Christmas Village, this is your chance.
Holiday Movie Showings
See the classic Elf movie at the drive-in at Charlotte Motor Speedway. The 4-mile light show leading to the big screen is a great way to start the entertainment.
Lights At The Gardens
In the Christmas mood already, the Daniel Stowe Botanical Gardens has lights, decorations and an outdoor fire blazing, complete with Smores and a food truck. Christmas in Charlotte NC isn’t complete without seeing this spectacular light show!
Christmas In Other Countries
Holidays Around The World at The Schiele Museum is a festive event that looks at the astronomy of seasons and explores winter celebrations. You will also learn about holiday traditions in different places in the world.
Holiday Bar Fun
Sippin’ Santa At the Royal Tot goes right through December with tropical xmas vibes, including tropical drinks, a Christmas menu, theme nights and a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus on Saturdays.
Polar Express
This is one of our favorite Christmas in Charlotte NC activities! The Polar Express North Carolina Transportation Museum has Christmas-themed train rides right through the month of December. Enjoy hot chocolate and cookies as you listen to xmas songs and hear a reading of The Polar Express. At the end, Santa will be at Candy Cane Lane to greet you and hear if you’ve been naughty or nice.
More Skating
Tis’ the season to go ice skating at Birkdale On Ice in Huntersville. Skate sessions are for 75 minutes and reservations are recommended. It runs through until January 16.
Optimist Hall Christmas Festivities
The Billy Sunday Christmas Bar is open and with jolly staff serving up curated Christmas cocktails and delicious dishes. Cozy up and enjoy the great atmosphere.
Undock The Halls
Calling all Nascar fans for the Undeck The Hall Nascar Hall Of Fame event on December 27. To find out what it’s all about and for the free gift you need to be there!
Whether you’re looking for family-friendly activities or just want to get away from the hustle and bustle of life, Christmas in Charlotte NC will have something to offer you. The city has so much to see and do that we couldn’t fit it all into one article! But if you have time before Christmas arrives, we highly recommend checking out these places. You won’t regret it!
