We’re asking you to Shine Your Light for our neighbors this winter, and what better way to celebrate the difference you make than to embrace the festivities of the holiday season. Here’s a collection of some of the best places to spend time with your family this season in or around Charlotte:
Explore Christmas Lights
There are dozens of places in and around Charlotte to see Christmas Lights. Walking trails or drive-thru paths provide plenty of opportunities for all families. Check out our list of favorites here!
Explore Camp North End
From shopping and good food to ice skating and artwork, Camp North End will transform into Camp North Pole. Family-friendly and something for everyone, it’s a wonderful place for an evening out.
Go Ice Skating
Across Charlotte, you’ll find a couple of different options for ice skating. Whether it is at Camp North End, Truist Field, or the Whitewater Center, get some skates and test your skills.
Catch a Charlotte Checkers Game
Charlotte’s local hockey team will take on the American Hockey League this winter. Make sure to catch a game and enjoy the energy of the rink.
Watch The Nutcracker at the Charlotte Ballet
The Nutcracker is a well-known holiday tradition with Charlotte Ballet. You won’t want to miss the talented dancers creating a show to remember. This year, the Charlotte Ballet is even offering sensory-friendly showings, making it accessible to all.
Attend a Menorah Lighting to Celebrate Hanukkah
Across Charlotte and surrounding cities, celebrate the holiday season by attending a Menorah lighting. In Huntersville, visit the Birkdale Village for an event with crafts, latkes, donuts, hot chocolate, and more. You can also check out Stonecrest’s Fountains Plaza with music, activities, and food. Make sure to look for other festivities as well.
Volunteer With Your Family
One way to celebrate the holiday season, get out of the house, and shine light for the community is to volunteer. Visit us at Crisis Assistance Ministry to help our neighbors access winter coats and other household essentials. Click here to sign up and learn more.
Visit the Southern Christmas Show
Hosted at the Park Expo and Conference Center, the Southern Christmas Show is one of the largest in North America. Get your holiday shopping done by visiting the hundreds of vendors gathered.
Explore Winterfest at Carowinds
Dive into a fully immersive holiday event at Carowinds. See thousands of sparkling lights while you enjoy ice skating, live entertainment and performances, caroling, and specialty shops to find the perfect gifts. Don’t miss the Winterfest Wonderland Parade before you head home.
Take a Winter Hike
One of the benefits of being in the south for winter is that the weather is cool, but not so cold that you can’t enjoy the outdoors. Visit the greenways, Canyon Night Trail at the Whitewater Center, or explore nearby Crowders Mountain for a hike to see beautiful wintery views.
Spread Warmth This Winter and Donate to Help Local Families Stay Housing & Warm
The holiday season can be bright and fun. While you enjoy all the adventures possible with your family, please consider making a direct contribution so our neighbors can also stay warm and stably housed this winter. Shine your Light with a gift to help Charlotteans pay rent, keep utilities on, and access winter essentials.