The weekend before Thanksgiving has arrived, and while there’s plenty left to prep for the big feast, Charlotte’s calendar is packed with ways to get out of the house (and keep any early visitors entertained). From the return of ice-skating rinks and festive holiday markets to opening night at Speedway Christmas, tree lightings, and more, there are plenty of ways to jump into the holiday spirit this weekend.
THINGS TO DO THIS THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 20
Gardens on Green Holiday Open House
Thursday, November 20, 12 – 8p
Stop by Gardens on Green for their Holiday Open House, where festive inspiration fills every corner. From intricate handmade ornaments to fresh paperwhite bulbs, the garden shop is fully stocked with seasonal favorites. You may have to drive a ways to get to this new-ish business, but it’s worth the miles 🙂
Sip N Shop with Charlotte Skin & Laser
Thursday, November 20, 10a- 2p
Join the CS&L aesthetic team for an in-store Sip & Shop experience where you’ll receive personalized skincare guidance, curated product recommendations, and enjoy first access to exclusive seasonal savings. Enjoy light refreshments while getting help to build a simple, effective routine, and choose treatments that support your holiday glow. To reserve your complimentary skincare consultation* (a $75 value), call or text 704.333.9113.
Ice Skating at Camp North End Grand Opening
November 20 – January 4
Camp North End will transform into Camp North Pole for the holiday season with their annual ICE SKATING rink. After a round of ice skating, all are invited to relax by the fire pit, sip a hot seasonal beverage, enjoy local eats, and find the perfect gift for loved ones at Camp.
Sips and Succulents
Thursday, November 20, 6 – 8p
Enjoy an afternoon at Triple C Brewing with music, drinking, painting and arranging your very own succulent garden. Ticket price includes large terracotta planter pot, paint, soil, decorative rocks and your choice of 2 medium sized succulents.
Holidays for Heroes
November 10 – December 13
Support both active and veteran military families this holiday by providing a monetary donation at the Hall. With each donation made, guests will have the opportunity to honor a military member with a personalized message on the Toyota displayed in the Great Hall. Toyota will the match the final NASCAR Hall of Fame donations amount.
THINGS TO DO THIS FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 21
Speedway Christmas
November 21 – January 4
The Southeast’s largest drive-thru holiday light show is back with more than 5 million lights on a four-mile course circling the iconic oval, pit road and infield road course. The show is open 6-10 p.m., rain or shine, and features synchronized lights-to-music on 101.3 FM, plus drive-in movies on the gigantic Speedway TV.
Winter at Whitewater
Winter at Whitewater is now open, featuring ice skating, an illuminated winter trail, night activities, a Christmas tree lot and winter pop-up market, races, events and more.
THINGS TO DO THIS SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 22
Yoga at Sycamore Taproom
Saturday, November 22, 10 – 11a
Start your weekend fresh. All levels are welcome, rain or shine – yoga will be held on the lawn or in the lobby. Bring your mat and good vibes for this free class. Stick around after for brunch and brews.
Rail Trail Cleanup
Saturday, November 22, 10a – 1p
Spend your Saturday morning doing some good in the community at the Rail Trail Clean Up. Registration is FREE and will take place anytime between 10am-11am at the New Bern Light Rail Station. Small Groups will walk at their own pace & clean up trash along the Rail Trail & surrounding streets. Wooden Robot Brewery will host a Volunteer Appreciation Event, beginning at 12pm, to celebrate all of our volunteers’ efforts.
NoDa Pottery Market
Saturday, November 22, 10a – 4p
The perfect spot to pick up unique gifts and support local artists this season. The 9th annual Holiday Pottery Market will feature a group of seven talented Charlotte potters with handcrafted ceramics, live local music, and a community-first vibe, all with free on-street parking and a family-friendly atmosphere.
The Lighting of Birkdale Village
Saturday, November 22, 2 – 7p
Get in the holiday spirit with festive music, holiday performances and activities for the whole family. From Santa’s arrival to the magical tree lighting, there’s something fun for everyone.
Ice Skating at The Bowl
November 22 – January 4
This holiday season, The Bowl will transform into a winter wonderland with our very first outdoor ice skating rink! Lace up your skates, grab a cup of cocoa and make memories under the twinkling lights with family and friends from Saturday, November 22 to Sunday, January 4.
All is Bright at Blakeney Town Center
Saturday, November 22, 3 – 6p
Head to Blakeney in South Charlotte to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year. Bring the whole family and enjoy visits with Santa, hot cocoa, a DJ with games, face painting, balloon artists, interactive roaming entertainers, and a special performance by the Hawk Ridge Elementary 3rd Grade Choir.
Holiday Magic at Rea Farms
Saturday, November 22, 4 – 8p
Swing by Rea Farms for character meet-and-greets (hello Mickey, Minnie, and Frozen friends), story time with Buddy and Jovie, Santa photos, and a 7 p.m. tree lighting with guaranteed snow. Plus cookie decorating, hot cocoa, face painting, train rides, and horse-and-carriage fun. This is a free family-friendly event.
Snow Days: Winter Experience
Opening November 22
Step into a glowing, snow-dusted wonderland with the debut of Snow Days, a one-of-a-kind indoor winter experience, featuring fun activities such as a sock skating rink, an Aurora Borealis Experience, the chance to build a traditional-style igloo, design a virtual snowflake, and much more.
THINGS TO DO THIS SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 23
The Cashmere Sale
Through December 17
This once a year pop-up is back and can be found at Apex SouthPark. Shop everything cashmere from sweaters to wraps and accessories, for women and men alike, inspired by leading designers and today’s influential fashion arbiters. On Sunday, there’s a special treat – Fairy Hair!
Heist Brewery Crafted & Cozy Market
Sunday, November 23, 12 – 5p
Get cozy at this fall market where you can browse vendor booths, enjoy mimosa specials, snag some permanent jewelry, and dig into tasty eats. With indoor and outdoor seating and lots to do, it’s the perfect spot to spend a cozy autumn day.
November Kids Painting Class at Summit Coffee On the Plaza
Sunday, November 23, 3 – 4p
Local artist Aimee-Rose will be hosting a fall-themed Kids Painting Class at Summit Coffee on The Plaza. With step-by-step guidance from Aimee-Rose, kids will learn simple watercolor techniques while painting leaves, mushrooms, acorns, and other fun fall details. All supplies are provided, just bring your imagination.
Pet Photos With Santa
Sunday, November 23, 6:30 – 8:30p
Bring your pets to pose with Santa at SouthPark Mall. Your pets are part of the family too, so don’t miss this fun opportunity for them to see Santa too. Pet Photos will be located in Center Court. Photos will be taken and available for purchase at this event. Reservations are not required for this event.
