November 4, 2024
2024 Holiday Happenings
These one-of-a-kind holiday events are sure to keep your family entertained, cozy and connected this season. From a superspeedway illuminated with over five million lights to snow showers inside the lobby of an indoor water park resort, here’s a round-up of this year’s holiday happenings in Cabarrus County.
For even more merriment across Cabarrus County this season, head over to our Events Calendar and filter by “Holiday Celebrations” to browse a full list of holiday happenings.
Seasonal Sips: A Holiday Wine Showcase – Nov. 10
With four vendors and 20 wines, this showcase event will feature sips of a variety of wines along with snacks and a seasonal wine glass. Take home the perfect pairing for your holiday meals.
Holiday Wine Tasting at Local Bottle Shop – Nov. 15
This tasting event will help you get in the holiday spirit and get ready for holiday season hosting. Sample six different wines to discover new favorites for your festive gatherings.
Kannapolis Tree Lighting Ceremony – Nov. 16
Kannapolis celebrates the start of the Christmas season and the beginning of their Celebration of Lights at Village Park with live music and entertainment, kid’s activities, and fireworks.
Kannapolis Celebration of Lights – Nov. 16-Dec. 30
The festivities continue at Village Park! Take in over 250,000 lights, go on a train ride through the illuminated park, see the Kannapolis Singing Bears perform a Christmas Carol, roast marshmallows for s’mores and visit with Santa!
27th Annual Concord Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony – Nov. 22
Along with the tree lighting, this free, family-friendly event in downtown Concord‘s Couthouse Plaza. has featured children’s activities like visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus, live music and dance, and fireworks.
Speedway Christmas – Nov. 22-Jan. 5
Charlotte Motor Speedway’s spectacular drive-through light course features over five million LED lights along a four-mile course around the legendary track, through the infield and under the concourse. Plus, enjoy the infield Christmas Village and catch drive-in holiday movies on the 16,000-square-foot Speedway TV every Thursday through Sunday night!
96th Annual Concord Christmas Parade – Nov. 23
Grab a seat along the parade route through historic downtown Concord to attend the oldest Christmas parade in North Carolina!
Snowland at Great Wolf Lodge – Nov 25.-Jan. 6
Great Wolf Lodge indoor waterpark resort transforms into a magical winter wonderland! Bring your pack to enjoy activities like visits with Santa, Snowflake Story Time, and Family Dance Party.
Small Business Saturday Holiday Trail – Nov. 30
Shop for one-of-a-kind gifts from over 100 vendors during this unique opportunity to support local and explore downtown Concord! Two trollies will transport shoppers between Gibson Mill, Southern Strain Brewing Company, and downtown. Plus, kids can write a letter to Santa at the Cabarrus Arts Council.
Photos with Santa at Concord Mills – Nov. 21-Dec. 24
Secure your spot for a photo with Santa during his time at Concord Mills, the state’s largest outlet and value retail shopping center.
Christmas in the Visitor Center – Throughout December
Make a pit stop at the cozy and festive Cabarrus County Visitor Center in Concord! Discover holiday fun across Cabarrus, shop for locally made gifts, and enjoy complimentary hot cocoa and classic Christmas movies.
Twinkling Tides at SEA LIFE Aquarium – Dec. 6-Jan. 5
The interactive aquarium located inside Concord Mills lights up with thousands of Christmas lights. Plus, view more than 10 zones transformed with festive holiday decor.
Town of Harrisburg’s Annual Christmas Tree Lighting – Dec. 6
Join in on an evening of holiday cheer at Harrisburg Park! See the official lighting of the Town’s Christmas Tree, enjoy food trucks, horse and carriage rides, local performances and so much more!
Holiday Market at ClearWater Arts Center & Studio – Dec. 7
For the second year, holiday shoppers will be able to browse and buy unique creations made by talented ClearWater Tenant Artists, the Cabarrus Art Guild, Southern Piedmont Woodturners, and other local artisans during this joyful holiday market.
Town of Mount Pleasant’s Annual Christmas Parade & Tree Lighting – Dec. 7
Join the Town of Mt. Pleasant as they kick off the holiday season with the Annual Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting to follow featuring food, music and crafts for kids.
Gaither Vocal Band Christmas Tour – Dec. 8
Experience an evening of uplifting music and fellowship at Cabarrus Arena & Events Center as the Bill Gaither & The Gaither Vocal Band are joined by special guests on stage.
Kannapolis Christmas Parade – Dec. 14
Thousands of lights decorate participating floats making this nighttime parade one of the holiday’s most special events. Join the festivities on the streets of downtown Kannapolis.
The Swanee Theatre Presents: The Embers – A Very Embers Christmas Show – Dec. 21
One of the Southeast’s most beloved bands will take the stage inside this historic theatre and treat the audience to an evening of festive fun and incredible music.
In Need of a Christmas Vacation?
Select a place to stay and start planning your holiday adventure to Cabarrus County, North Carolina.
