As if we weren’t in the spirit already, the holiday season is officially in full force in Cornelius, Davidson, Mooresville, Huntersville and beyond. From DIY classes to a lighted boat parade, here’s our day-by-day guide to this weekend around Lake Norman:
ALL WEEKEND
Tree Decorating Contest at NorthCross
Through December 25 |Â NorthCross Shopping Center
NorthCross’ second annual tree competition lets merchants compete for the title of best-decorated tree. So while you’re completing your holiday shopping, stop by to cast your vote for a chance to win a special prize. Winners will be announced on December 27th.
Holiday Light Spectacular
Through December 28 | 5:30 – 10 p.m.
Now through December 28, drive by or visit Downtown Mooresville’s Holiday Light Spectacular. The 150,000-light show includes twinkling snowmen, trees and more set to festive music.
Fine Art and Contemporary Craft Show
December 7 – 8 | 18315 Victoria Bay Dr, Cornelius
This annual art show features works by Ellie Lyle, Judith Kidd, Mary Tew and Erin Sherrill. In addition to shopping for the art lovers on your list, enjoy light refreshments and plenty of holiday cheer.
FRIDAY
DIY: Succulent + Eucalyptus Indoor Wreath
Brawley Garden Center, Mooresville | 5:30 p.m.
Make your own 16-inch wreath adorned with Fraser fir, fresh fresh eucalyptus and succulents with the help of gardening experts. $45 per person, including all supplies and instruction.
Un-Cover, Re-Cover Artist Reception
Cornelius Arts Center | 6:30 – 9 p.m.
Meet and hear from artist Paul Farmer and explore the Un-Cover, Re-Cover exhibition, which will be on display through January 11.
Horse-Drawn Wagon Rides, Santa Visits & More
Downtown Mooresville | 6 – 8 p.m.
Downtown Mooresville will be all-in on holiday cheer with visits with Santa, horse-drawn carriage rides, shopping, tasty treats and a life-size snow globe. A donation of non-perishable food items or cash is suggested.
Live music round-up:
The HC Oakes Trio
The Vinyl Pi, Huntersville | 8 p.m.
Matt Stratford
Corkscrew Birkdale, Huntersville | 8 p.m.
Mojo Mafia
Hangar33LKN, Mooresville | 9 p.m.
Capn Dar
Bacchus Wine & Tapas, Mooresville | 7 p.m.
Randall Sprinkle
The Barrel, Mooresville | 7 p.m.
SATURDAY
Lighted Boat Parade
Peninsula Yacht Club, Cornelius | 5 p.m.
The 22nd annual Lighted Boat Parade is a thrill to watch by boat or by land. See decorated boats illuminate the lake after visiting with Santa and enjoying concessions. Open to the public.
Christmas Open House at Main St. Antiques & Design Gallery
Main St. Antiques & Design Gallery | 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Main St. Antiques & Design Gallery’s annual Christmas Open House offers a chance to shop offerings from multiple vendors, visit with Santa, enjoy entertainment and refreshments, plus enter to win raffle prizes.
Huntersville Half Marathon and Huntersville Holiday 5k
Huntersville | 8 a.m.
This year, the favorite Huntersville race offers two chances to lace up: a 5k on Friday evening and the half marathon on Saturday. Both races boast cash prizes for winners. Benefits the Novant Health Foundation.
Candlelight Christmas Tour
Historic Latta Plantation, Huntersville | 6 p.m.
Experience the holidays by candlelight at Historic Latta Plantation including tours throughout the historic home followed by hot cider and cookies by the fire. $15 per person.
Christmas Cocktail Party Featuring The Breakfast Club
Boatyard Eats, Cornelius | 8 p.m.
The inaugural Christmas Cocktail Party at Boatyard Eats features live music by 80s tribute band The Breakfast Club. $10 per person in advance, $15 day of show. Proceeds benefit the Dave Thomas Adoption Foundation.
Annual Chili Cook Off
The Kilted Buffalo Langtree, Mooresville | 3 – 6 p.m.
This cook-off, sponsored by Sweetwater Brewery, is free to enter and free to sample. Bring a crockpot of your best recipe to compete for the title of best chili.
Live music round-up:
The Justin Mintun Band
The Vinyl Pi, Huntersville | 8 p.m.
Scott Moss
Primal Brewery, Huntersville | 7 p.m.
Poplar Tent Revival
Corkscrew Birkdale, Huntersville | 8 p.m.
Mike Nolan
Wine Maestro, Mooresvilel | 7 p.m.
Silver Train
Old Town Public House, Cornelius | 9 p.m.
Pomolas
Galway Hooker Irish Pub, Cornelius | 9 p.m.
SUNDAY
6th Annual LKNO Holiday Gala
Historic Langtree Plantation, Mooresville | 4:30 – 8:30 p.m.
Maestro Eduardo Cedeño leads the Lake Norman Orchestra in a celebration of the season, which also includes a catered dinner, auctions and raffles. $100+.
Sunday Jazz
Corkscrew Birkdale, Huntersville | 2 – 4 p.m.
Wind down your weekend with live music by George Hoar and Mike Zinna Jazz, plus wine picks from the professionals at Corkscrew.
Sunday Jazz Jam
Old Town Public House , Cornelius | 6 – 9 p.m.
Bring your own instrument to join in on the Sunday Jazz Jam at Old Town Public House. Hosted by Brian Burton and Scott McCloud.
