CHARLOTTE (QUEEN CITY NEWS) — We are one week out from Christmas and the festivities are still in full-force across the Charlotte area. Here’s a list of event happening this weekend:
Friday, Dec. 19
Salisbury Symphony Holiday Concert
For the first time, the Salisbury Symphony’s ‘Home for the Holidays’ concert series will bring the sounds of the holiday season to the historic Swanee Theatre in Kannapolis. The concert is at 7 p.m.
Saturday, Dec. 20
Lake Norman Lighted Christmas Boat Parade
The 7th annual Lake Norman Lighted Christmas Boat Parade will make multiple stops along Lake Norman, starting at the Blythe Landing and ending at the Duke Energy Explorium, where Santa and food trucks will await attendees.
Volunteers will also be collecting unwrapped toys at every stop to support Little Smiles, a local charity helping children undergoing cancer treatment. Cash and online donations are also welcome.
Sunday, Dec. 21
Carolina Panthers v. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Photos: Carolina Panthers and Tampa Bay Buccaneers via Getty Images
It’s a must-win situation for the Panthers as they compete to secure their spot in the playoffs. After a devastating loss to the Saints for the second time this season, these next three games are crucial. The Bucs and Panthers both sit at 7-7 in the NFC South, with the Bucs favored for Sunday’s match. Kick off is set for 1 p.m. at Bank of America Stadium.
Happening Throughout December
Christmas Town U.S.A – McAdenville
McAdenville is officially open as Christmas Town USA on Dec. 1.
Every December since 1956, the town of McAdenville transforms into Christmas Town U.S.A., attracting visitors from across the country. Come out to experience the Christmas light display in the downtown area. Green, red and white lights will shine from 5:30 PM to 10:00 PM each night through Dec. 26.
Take a Ride on the Polar Express
Well, are you coming? Inspired by the iconic Christmas movie, this holiday favorite has come to life for your enjoyment and that of your family. Families can take a trip to the North Pole, with hot chocolate and cookies served aboard the train. The ride takes place completely on the North Carolina Transportation Museum grounds in Spencer.
Tweetsie Railroad Christmas
Queen City News
There’s a Wild West Christmas town at Tweetsie Railroad in Blowing Rock! Guests of all ages can enjoy a real train ride behind a historic steam locomotive, sing carols, and even take photos with Santa himself (until Christmas). The adventure is open every Friday, Saturday and Sunday evening through December 30 (except for Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day).
Kings Mountain Christmas Light Extravaganza
Kings Mountain is kicking off the holiday season by turning Patriots Park into a Christmas wonderland. The light extravaganza runs through New Year’s, from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Winterfest at Carowinds
Step into the wonderful world of Winterfest at Carowinds, complete with live shows, attractions, Santa Claus and holiday-themed food and drink. The festivities run through January 3 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Learn more and secure your tickets here.
Light the Knights Festival
The 6th Annual Light the Knights Festival is now open at Truist Field in Uptown Charlotte. Enjoy ice skating, snow tubing, and thousands of lights. The celebration runs through January 4. Visit the Charlotte Knights website for tickets.
A Speedway Christmas
Photo: Speedway Christmas/Charlotte Motor Speedway
The Southeast’s largest drive-thru holiday lights show is back open for the season at Charlotte Motor Speedway in Concord. More than 5 million lights across a four-mile course, encasing the iconic oval, pit road and infield road course. The event is open 6-10 p.m., rain or shine, through Jan. 4, 2026.
Winter at Whitewater
Ice Skating returns to the Whitewater Center Friday, Nov. 15.
Over 24,000 square feet of ice, illuminated winter trails, special events, and more can be found at the Whitewater Center through mid-February. The center has turned into a winter wonderland where you and your family can ice skate, enjoy a hot chocolate, and even pet a highland cow all in one place!
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