Holiday 2025 is officially here! From sparkling lights to festive activities, Lake Norman and the surrounding areas are popping with fun-filled events everyone is sure to enjoy. Here's your guide to the best holiday happenings around, near, and beyond Lake Norman!
The Lighting of Birkdale Village is a popular way to kick off the holiday season. The festivities start at 2pm, with a holiday parade at 4:30pm, followed by the tree lighting at 6pm. Mark your calendar for Saturday, November 22nd, and be sure to arrive early to find parking.
Christmas in Davidson is an annual event not to be missed. The idyllic Davidson Main Street is closed off to cars, and businesses and community organizations celebrate the season with live music, holiday shopping, and lights galore. The live nativity run by Davidson United Methodist Church is a truly unique experience! The event runs December 4th-6th, from 6pm-9pm each night.
The LKN community comes out for the North Meck Holiday Parade, happening this year on Saturday, December 6th at 1pm. Line up early to see marching bands, festive floats and, of course, Santa!
Birkdale on Ice, a picturesque skating rink in the middle of our local outdoor mall, runs November 22-January 18. Reservations are recommended. Huntersville
Santa at Birkdale, at the same outdoor mall, runs November 23-December 24. Reservations are recommended. Huntersville
Speedway Christmas at the Charlotte Motor Speedway features the Southeast's largest drive-thru holiday light show and a festive Christmas village. This event runs November 21-January 4. Advance tickets are available but not required. Drive-up passes are available at the gate. Concord
A Kannapolis Christmas at the quintessential Village Park runs November 15-December 30. In addition to their popular train and carousel rides, you will find a dazzling display of holiday lights, crackling fire pits, food trucks and craft vendors as well as the opportunity to visit Santa! Admission to the park and viewing of the lights is free; tickets are required to ride the carousel and train. Advance tickets are available. Kannapolis
Ice Skating at Camp North Pole runs November 20-January 4 at Camp North End in Charlotte. Enjoy ice skating, fire pits, seasonal beverages and holiday cheer. Tickets are available in advance and include skate rental.
Light the Knights Festival at the Charlotte Knights baseball stadium runs November 26-January 4. In addition to ice skating and a giant tubing hill, attendees can enjoy light displays, a winter market, and more. Advance tickets are recommended.
Carolina Holiday Light Spectacular runs November 28 through December 30 in Ballantyne. Experience an expansive walk-through lights display accessible for all, including wheelchairs and strollers. Other activities such as food trucks, local shops, live music, and visits with Santa are also available. Advance tickets are recommended.
Winter Trail, Ice Skating and Winter Market at the Whitewater Center runs mid-November through mid-February. Tickets are required for some activities and reservations are available. Charlotte
Christmas Town USA runs December 1-26. Visitors come from all around to walk or drive through the quaint town of McAdenville, which transforms each year into a delightful winter wonderland. No tickets or reservations are required, but bring your patience as this event attracts many! McAdenville
Holidays at the Garden at Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden runs November 28-December 27. A gorgeous holiday lights display is accompanied by fire pits for s'mores and warm beverages to savor as you take in the sights. Advance tickets are recommended. Belmont
Carowinds Winterfest runs November 28-January 3. Enjoy ice skating, fun family activities, live entertainment, holiday-inspired comfort food and beverages, and select attractions. Capped off by an extravagant nightly Christmas parade! Buy tickets online in advance. Charlotte
The Polar Express Train Ride runs on select dates in November and December. Be aware that tickets sell out fast, so book as early as possible! Spencer
As always, a cozy StayLakeNorman waterfront home is the perfect base from which to venture out and explore our festive community this winter. Book direct online or call our reservations team today 704.924.0510
StayLakeNorman offers vacation rentals with high-end amenities and concierge services that exceed expectations. If your stay leads to falling in love with the idea of living on the lake or investing in a property of your own, our real estate team will be your guide to making that dream a reality.
