Thanksgiving in North Carolina offers a delightful blend of festive events and activities suitable for all ages. From enchanting light displays to cultural celebrations, the state provides numerous opportunities to create lasting holiday memories.
Holiday Light Shows
• Winter Lights at the North Carolina Arboretum: Running from November 15 to December 31, 2024, in Asheville, this 3-acre nightly tour showcases the arboretum’s renowned gardens adorned with colorful native butterflies and winter wildlife displays.
• Tanglewood Park Festival of Lights: Located in Clemmons, this event features over 100 light displays along a nearly 5-mile route, offering attractions like “S’moresville,” tractor-pulled hayrides, and private horse-drawn carriages.
• WinterFest at Carowinds: On select dates from November 15, 2024, to January 4, 2025, in Charlotte, Carowinds transforms into a winter wonderland with thousands of shimmering lights, a grand Christmas tree, live shows, strolling performers, and festive culinary delights.
• Speedway Christmas: Held in Concord from November 22, 2024, to January 5, 2025, this event boasts over 5 million lights spanning a 4-mile course that includes the oval, pit road, and infield road course.
• Winter Wonderlights: From November 20, 2024, to January 5, 2025, in Greensboro, the Greensboro Science Center presents 12 magical realms filled with joyful sounds and shimmering lights.
Train Rides
• The Polar Express in Bryson City: Beginning November 7, this festive train ride brings the beloved story to life, offering a magical experience for families.
• The Polar Express in Spencer: Another rendition of the classic tale, this train ride provides a memorable holiday journey.
Cultural Celebrations
• North Carolina Chinese Lantern Festival: From November 16, 2024, to January 12, 2025, in Cary, this festival features all-new displays comprising hundreds of parts and thousands of LED lights, offering a mesmerizing experience.
• Holidays at Tryon Palace: Starting November 29, 2024, in New Bern, visitors can explore the palace adorned in holiday décor, providing a glimpse into historical celebrations.
Parades and Flotillas
• Thanksgiving Parade in Charlotte: This annual parade features festive floats, marching bands, and performances, marking the beginning of the holiday season.
• North Carolina Holiday Flotilla: Held in Wrightsville Beach, this event showcases a parade of beautifully decorated boats, followed by fireworks, creating a spectacular coastal celebration.
Ice Skating
• Piedmont Winterfest: Located in Greensboro, this outdoor ice-skating rink offers a fun activity for families and friends during the holiday season.
• Skating at U.S. National Whitewater Center: In Charlotte, visitors can enjoy ice skating amidst a scenic backdrop, adding a unique twist to traditional holiday activities.
For a comprehensive list of events and more details, visit Visit North Carolina’s official website.
Author: staff report
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