Winter Wonderlights at Greensboro Science Center offers 12 magical realms of lights
Delight the kids with a virtual visit to Who-Seum-Ville at the Museum of the Albemarle in Elizabeth City
Biltmore goes all out for the holiday season, adding dozens of Christmas trees, hundreds of poinsettias and thousands of lights
Greensboro’s Downtown in December has pivoted to socially distanced events
With the glow of the gardens, holiday décor and fantastical displays, Winter Lights at The Elizabethan Gardens is a sight to behold
Take in Moravian Christmas decorations with a stroll through Old Salem (please note: only the grounds are open; the buildings are closed)
Travel back in time at Tryon Palace and see how the holidays were celebrated centuries ago in New Bern
Watch Santa prepare for his deliveries by rappelling down Chimney Rock
The flotilla is one of the highlights of Christmas in Downtown in Morehead City
Hop aboard the Polar Express in Bryson City and enjoy a read-along ride to the North Pole, where Santa greets children with gifts

Holiday

All is Merry and Bright

As the air turns crisp and vibrant foliage fades to twinkling lights, celebrate the season at socially distant holiday events across North Carolina. Mask up for 12 magical realms of shimmering lights at Winter Wonderlights in Greensboro and attend tree-lighting ceremonies around Thanksgiving. Hop a train and enjoy jovial Christmas rides in Blowing Rock or Bryson City. Watch a parade of colorful boats float past at the Holiday Flotilla in Morehead City, or peruse coastal gardens lit up for the season. No matter how you spend your days, return home to a hand-picked Christmas tree from the High Country, America’s Christmas Tree Capital.

Explore

Trip Tips

Be sure to arrive at least one hour before your departure on The Polar Express in Bryson City
Can't make it to the coast before the holidays? Winter Lights at the Elizabethan Gardens in Manteo extends all the way through Jan. 16, 2021
A musically orchestrated topiary display and illuminated prairie garden are highlights of Holidays at the Garden at Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden
Dress warm for Tweetsie Christmas at Tweetsie Railroad – the cars have open windows
Kites with Lights on Nov. 28 at Jockey’s Ridge features 19- to 30-foot holiday kites for a one-of-a-kind light display