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There are several reasons the Christmas season is a wonderful time of year. Not only are you likely looking forward to holiday vacation and spending time with loved ones, but for several weeks leading up to Christmas Day (and after), many attractions across North Carolina become holiday destinations and winter wonderlands.
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Polar Express Train Ride (Spencer)
This holiday favorite comes to life as you and your family take a ride on The Polar Express at the NC Transportation Museum. Set to the music of the motion picture soundtrack, the trip to the "North Pole" features singing, dancing, a reading of the book, hot chocolate and cookies, and a visit from Santa. Passengers are encouraged to wear their pajamas for the ride.
The Polar Express
The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad had already achieved stardom by the time "The Polar Express" came out, but the animated film added to the luster with an annual excursion booked by thousands of passengers. The read-along ride features Chris Van Allsburg’s 1985 book, clips from the movie soundtrack, warm cocoa and a treat as the train of pajama-clad children clacks to the North Pole, where Santa awaits with a gift. Christmas carols will be sung as they return back to the Bryson City Depot.
Winter Lights at the North Carolina Arboretum
Experience this nightly tour of the arboretum's nationally known gardens, including its Quilt Garden and Bonsai Exhibition Garden. Designed to showcase the natural landscape, the "Forest Floor" and "Beneath the Riverbed" exhibits are just a couple of the displays.
Down Home Country Christmas
The heartwarming show at Duplin Winery combines stories and carols with a multicourse meal in the winery’s bistro. To make the most of your evening, schedule a wine tasting beforehand and try the cheese dip.
WinterLights at Elizabethan Gardens
Peacocks, butterflies, deer and other enchanting creatures take up temporary residence at the Elizabethan Gardens. Created with flowers, seeds and other natural elements, the lighted displays join permanent art elements — which include the world’s largest bronze statue of Queen Elizabeth I of England.
Meadow Lights
Meadow Lights has been a family-owned holiday tradition for more than 40 years. Displays stretch across 30-plus acres, topping out at 37 feet, and three trains loop through the glowing lights. Warm up at the Old Country Store with hot apple cider, then say hi to Santa or take a spin on the carousel. Round out your JoCo holiday outing with an Italian meal at Fiori beforehand and a seasonal cocktail at Quantum Toad afterward. Save time for DeWayne's, too — Tina and DeWayne Lee grew a roadside pumpkin stand into a shopping destination that has drawn shoppers for 35-plus years.
Speedway Christmas
One of America’s largest holiday light shows, Speedway Christmas features more than 5 million lights over a 4-mile course that includes the oval, pit road and infield road course.
Holidays at Tryon Palace
Overtaxed colonists had a bad case of humbug in December 1770, when Gov. William Tryon threw the first party at the fancy Georgian-style structure where he would live and run the government. Two-and-a-half centuries later, Tryon Palace historic site recreates the effect of the event with holiday-themed tours offered during the season. Plus, the annual Candlelight Nights take place Dec. 12 and 19 with festivities illuminated by the glow of candlelight and fireworks, along with traditional circus performers.
Kersey Valley Christmas
From the same folks who bring to life one of the top haunted attractions in the country comes Kersey Valley Christmas. This huge family-friendly event features a village of 2 million Christmas lights, train and wagon rides, jumping pillows, Santa’s workshop — and even a Grinch Cave. Pro tip: Purchase a photo package online beforehand to guarantee meeting both Santa and the Grinch, and join the virtual queue as soon as you arrive so you can spend more time exploring.
Tweetsie Christmas
Catch the arrival of Santa Claus as he enters on the train, or meet him in his home made of gingerbread and filled with candied furnishings. Enjoy holiday lights throughout the park and along the 3-mile track. Roast s'mores and devour other handmade goodies from Tweetsie Railroad's fudge shop.
WinterFest at Carowinds
One of the South's most popular theme parks, Carowinds transforms into WinterFest with thousands of shimmering lights, a large Christmas tree, lavish displays, live shows and strolling performers, and special holiday dishes and desserts fill the midways. For an extra charge, you can warm up in an igloo, take pictures with Santa and decorate cookies with Mrs. Claus.
Downtown Lights Up
A horse-drawn trolley ride is the next best thing to dashing through the snow in a one-horse open sleigh. The equine excursions begin at the annual Downtown Lights Up event on the Tuesday night before Thanksgiving.
Santa on the Chimney
How could Santa resist a 315-foot granite monolith shaped like a chimney? For the 29th year, the man in red will warm up for his Christmas Eve chimney-thon by rappelling down this iconic natural landmark. Visitors can meet Santa and Mrs. Claus, see critters, hike with an elf and enjoy live music, hot cocoa, cookies and kids’ activities.
Southport Winterfest Flotilla
Bring your lawn chair, blanket and hot chocolate for this maritime light show. Vessels adorned with bright holiday lights and decorations cruise past the waterfront, where local elementary school students decide on the best-decorated boat.
Christmas In Thomasville
Holiday cheer in Chair City (nicknamed for its furniture heritage) means a radiant parade with marching bands and festive floats, plus Chair City Christmas: a night of music, meeting Santa and Mrs. Claus, and free toys for kids.
Hundreds of great events are taking place this holiday season across North Carolina. Find the event that best fits the experience you're looking for by searching our calendar.