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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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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.
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.
Winterfest at Tryon International
Roll down the windows as you cruise past the light-up snowmen, Christmas trees and reindeer that take over the equestrian resort each winter. When you finish your lap, lace up some ice skates and glide around the Tryon Stadium rink.
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 displays feature colorful native butterflies and winter wildlife with a special insect-themed lantern exhibit on view. Bonus: Meet six of Thomas Dambo's trolls in 2025, as they'll be experiencing the light show for themselves.
North Carolina Chinese Lantern Festival
The North Carolina Chinese Lantern Festival includes all-new displays, each one comprising hundreds of parts and thousands of LED lights. A variety of ticket options — including Twilight and Any Night — make planning your visit a breeze. A sensory-friendly night is also on the calendar for Dec. 2.
Skating at US National Whitewater Center
The US National Whitewater Center (20 minutes outside of Uptown Charlotte) offers a 17,000-square-foot ice rink with several different skating zones on the upper pond. A single-day activity pass is required to skate. Bonus: An on-ice Airstream offers craft beer, wine and hot cocoa.
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.
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.
Piedmont Winterfest
Bundle up and head to Piedmont Winterfest in downtown Greensboro at LeBauer Park. Rock those figure eights on the ice rink, and try your hand at curling on select nights.
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.
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. 13 and 20 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.
Santa on the Chimney
How could Santa resist a 315-foot granite monolith shaped like a chimney? For the 28th 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.
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.