The weekend before Thanksgiving is here, and while there’s still lots left to do to prep for the big day, the weekend is packed with events to get out of the house (and keep any visiting in-laws entertained). Kick the weekend off with the opening nights for ice skating at Camp North End, Carowinds Winterfest, Speedway Christmas, plus several tree lightings, and much more.
THINGS TO DO THIS THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 21
Santa Photos at SouthPark Mall
November 7 – December 24
Time slots already booking up! Link thru to schedule yours today.
Seasonal sips and decor at VINYL
November 20 – January 6
For the third year, VINYL will be decked out with sparkling garlands, shimmering ornaments and warm holiday lights, setting the perfect stage for enjoying one of Beverage Director Henry Schmulling’s delightful winter cocktail creations.
The Melting Pot Midtown celebrates 35 years – celebrate and dine for a cause
THINGS TO DO THIS FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 22
Speedway Christmas
November 22 – January 5
Speedway Christmas is back at the Charlotte Motor Speedway! The 15th season of the Southeast’s largest drive-thru holiday light show will feature more than 5 million lights on a four-mile 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 every Thursday through Sunday night until Christmas.
Ice Skating at Camp North Pole
November 22 – January 5
Camp North End is being transformed this Friday 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 North End.
Carowinds Winterfest
Select nights, November 15 – January 4
Gather with friends and family to make lifelong memories at Carowinds’ WinterFest, the Carolinas’ most immersive holiday event. Celebrate with holiday light displays complete with millions of shimmering lights, ice skating, family activities, live entertainment, holiday-inspired comfort food and beverages, and select attractions. Find the perfect present at specialty holiday gift shops, play holiday-themed games, and catch the season’s festive live entertainment.
Piedmont Town Center Holiday Tree Lighting
Friday, November 22, 6 – 9p
Head to Piedmont Town Center for the 2024 Holiday Tree Lighting. There will be face painting, train rides, a festive photobooth, storytelling with Mrs. Claus, a visit with Santa, and lots of treats. Toys for Tots will also be there to collect unwrapped toys and accept donations.
THINGS TO DO THIS SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 23
Yoga at Sycamore Taproom
Saturday, November 23, 10 – 11a
Start your weekend fresh with Dani Vayo every Saturday. All levels are welcome, rain or shine. Bring your mat and good vibes for this free class. Stick around after for brunch and brews.
Thanksgiving Wines Tasting Arthurs Wine Shop @ Belk
Saturday, November 23, 11 am – 5 pm
Which wine pairs best with turkey? What about pumpkin pie? Find out at Arthur’s Thanksgiving Wine Tasting of hand-selected 12 wines that will be perfect for your Thanksgiving celebration. $10/person, no reservations needed.
The Lighting of Birkdale Village
Saturday, November 23, 2 – 7p
It’s officially Christmas time at Birkdale Village. Join them on Saturday for a festive time filled with holiday performances and activities for the whole family including Birkdale on Ice, the holiday parade, Birkdale Biergarten, dance performances, and more.
All is Bright at Blakeney Town Center
Saturday, November 23, 3 – 6p
Head to Blakeney in South Charlotte to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year. Kick off the night by watching the town center tree get lit up with a visit from Santa and Mrs. Clause. There will also be balloon artistry, face painting, crafts, delicious hot cocoa, falling snow, a Toy Drive, and more.
Rea Farms Holiday Magic
Saturday, November 23, 4 – 8p
Celebrate the holiday season at Rea Farms this Saturday. There will be free photos with Santa, cookie decorating, train rides, horse and carriage rides, hot cocoa and coffee, falling snow, and lots more.
THINGS TO DO THIS SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 24
Free Admission to the new exhibition of “Women of Land and Smoke: Photographs by Graciela Iturbide and Maya Goded” at Mint Museum Randolph. November 23-24 | FREE during museum hours. explores the works of two photographers from different generations, both rooted in Mexico City, who have captured the world through their lenses. Their powerful images examine contemporary life and its intersection with centuries-old traditions across North and South America. Over decades of exploring communities, whether urban or isolated, they have seen the resilience and strength of women emerge as a unifying force, holding these fragmenting societies together.
How to Style Your Tree & Mantel at Pottery Barn
Sunday, November 24, 10a
Get inspired with beautiful ways to bring home the holidays—from trimming the tree with whimsical ornaments to styling a magical mantel. Events are free but space is limited.
Save on Holiday Symphony Performances. Discounts end 11/30. SAVE 25% with code HOLIDAY24Â on select concert experiences through November 30 – like Muppet Christmas Carol, Holiday Pops, Handel’s Messiah, and more.
