What’s new on the south Charlotte beat? We’re glad you asked. From Santa sightings to arts shows and new restaurants here’s your round up of South Charlotte scoop for December:
TASTE
Pancakes with Santa
December 9 | StoneCrest at Piper Glen
Before you hit the shops, stop to fuel up on pancakes with a very special guest. In addition to savory breakfast and lunch items (pancakes are just $1!), plan to enjoy kids activities and photos with Santa. Bring non-perishable food items to support Second Harvest Food Bank.
Smashburger opening in Fort Mill
651 Market Street
Smashburger is coming to Fort Millm and celebrating with a series of events leading up to the grand opening on December 7.
- December 4: Smashburger is hosting a “Pay What You Want” event at their new Fort Mill location. From 11am to 2pm, guests can pay as little as $1 for an entrée with 100 percent of the proceeds benefitting Ace & TJ’s Grin Kids. Then, later that evening from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., the “Pay What You Want” proceeds will go to local Orchard Park Elementary School.
- December 5: Smashburger’s second “Pay What You Want” day is from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. benefitting Children’s Attention Home.
- December 6: The first 100 customers in line at Smashburger’s Kingsley grand opening will win free regular Classic Smashburgers for a year. Even after the first 100 guests have arrived, all guests that day will receive one free regular Classic Smashburger (per customer) between 11 a.m. and 7 p.m.
- December 7 : Smashburger in the Kingsley Town Center will officially open with normal pricing and hours.
Whiskey Club at Ballantyne: Johnnie Walker Lounge
December 11 | The Ballantyne Hotel | 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.
National Scotch Educator Alastair Menzies will be joining the Ballantyne team to lead guests through tastings of Johnnie Walker 18 year as well as tastings through Johnnie Walker blends. RSVP by calling 704.248.4100.
The Liberty opens in Blakeney
9816 Rea Road
The South End staple has expanded to Blakeney. The newest location of The Liberty is open for dinner, and will be adding lunch and brunch service the week of December 4.
CELEBRATE
Wednesdays through December 20, indulge in some mid-week cheer at Waverly. Enjoy entertainment, music, a hot chocolate and cider tent, a snow globe perfect for selfies (post it for discounts from retailers during the event!) and a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus.
Santa’s Workshop and Paws & Claus
Dates through December 24 | Blakeney Shopping Center
Don’t miss your chance to wisper your wishlist to Santa or have your pup snap a picture with Mr. Claus. View the full schedule for both events here.
Gingerbread Lane
Thursday, December 7 through Wednesday, December 27 | The Ballantyne
While you’re there, get lost in a magical display of gingerbread creations on Gingerbread Lane. Vote for your favorite entries with a $1 minimum donation to Levine Children’s Hospital. Free to visit and open to the public.
Holiday Open House
December 9 | Ballantyne Village | 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Kick off the day with breakfast with Santa at Blackfinn, then continue the holiday festivities with free face painting, balloon artists, train rides, crafts, a photo booth and visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus. The first 500 kids receive a free goodie bag!
Village of Marvin Annual Tree Lighting Event
December 9 | Marvin-Efird Park | 4-6 p.m.
Kids young and old will delight in this festive event and tree lighting. Enjoy hot chocolate and cookies, live performances, a visit with Santa and a countdown to the tree lighting. Please bring a new unwrapped gift to the event or dropout off at Village Hall. Baby items and teen gifts are in particular need. The event is free and open to the public.
Photos with Santa and Carriage Rides
December 9 & 16 | Promenade on Providence | 3-5 p.m.
On December 9 and 16, bring the family to Promenade on Providence to meet with Santa, enjoy refreshments and hop aboard a horse-drawn carriage ride.
Chocolate Menorah at Stonecrest
December 13 | StoneCrest at Piper Glen | 5-7 p.m.
Join the Ballantyne Jewish Center for the lighting of a 9 foot chocolate Menorah. Activities, crafts, performances and food vendors begin at 5, followed by the Menorah lighting at 5:30 p.m.
Giant Gelt Drop & Menorah Lighting In Waxhaw
December 14 | Downtown Waxhaw | 5 p.m.
The third Annual Menorah Lighting in Waxhaw starts with family fun at 5 p.m. Enjoy a giant gelt drop, latkes and donuts, warm drinks and more ahead of the Menorah lighting.
Arboretum Holiday Magic Jubilee
December 16 | The Arboretum | 6-8 p.m.
This family-friendly event has all the makings of a festive evening: trains, carriage rides, face painting and of course, Santa!
Big View Diner Kid’s Christmas Night
December 20 | Big View Diner | 6 p.m.
All aboard for this special night at Big View Diner just for kids. Enjoy a special showing of The Polar Express, a kid’s buffet, hot chocolate and a visit with Santa.
EXPERIENCE
TAP Into the Arts
December 8 | Rock Hill Cotton Factory | 6:30 – 8 p.m.
Celebrate local art as TAP Into the Arts features work from area adults with intellectual disabilities who have participated in Rock Hill Parks, Recreation & Tourism’s therapeutic art programs. Browse and shop paintings, photography pottery, handmade items and more, plus enjoy a special performance from the Rock Hill Praise Dance Troupe at 7 p.m.
Charlotte Jingle Bell Run
December 9 | St. Matthew Catholic Church | 9 a.m.
Lace up (and fasten your jingle bells) for The Arthritis Foundation’s Jingle Bell Run. This race has something for everyone: a Children’s Reindeer Dash, certified 5k or 1-mile fun run/walk. Plus, plenty of festive costumes.
