5 Fun Ways to Raise Christmas Cheer

Will Watson, Staff Writer

It’s that time of year! The Christmas season is here and there is plenty to do in Mecklenburg County. Looking for some seasonal activities to explore? Here are five classic ideas to make this, truly, the most wonderful time of the year.

Winterfest at Carowinds

Date(s): November 13th – January 9th (Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays)

Hours: 3p.m. — 11p.m. (varies)

Cost: $32

Most people know it as a fun summer activity, but in December the winter wonderland comes alive. Carowinds transforms its park into a full out Christmas theme. Ice skating, games, and, of course, riding roller coasters all come with the excitement that Winterfest brings. Wrap the night up with a festive parade filled with iconic Christmas characters. Bring friends and family to come and have a Christmas experience like no other.

Christmas in Davidson

Date(s): December 2nd, 3rd, & 4th

Hours: 5 – 9 pm

Cost: FREE (Bring cash for stores and food)

It’s a regular town during the day, but at night, Davidson turns into a Christmas extravaganza. Only one weekend of the year, Christmas in Davidson takes place on Main Street. The event includes shopping, hot chocolate, horse riding, and more activities that celebrate the holiday. Don’t worry, Covid isn’t stopping the Christmas cheer this year. Christmas in Davidson will be back to its festiveness.

Charlotte Christmas Village

Date(s): November 24th – December 23rd (Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays)

Hours: 12p.m. — 10p.m. (Varies)

Cost: $5 (Before 5 p.m.) $10 (After 5 p.m.)

Christmas meets Truist Field! Go to downtown Charlotte to enjoy a holiday spectacular at the Knights field. Buy gifts for family and friends at the gift shop. Enjoy delicious snacks such as soft pretzels, fudge, funnel cake, and much more. Watch the light show as Truist Field becomes absolutely lit. Keep an eye out for Santa and his helpers!

Ice Skating at the White Water Center

Date(s): November 11 – Mid February

Hours: 12:00 p.m. — 10:00 p.m.

Cost: $25

Ice skating is one of the top winter activities but can be hard to find a dependable cheap place. Look no further. Go to the White Water Center to become acquainted with Charlotte’s most prestigious ice skating rink. Become lost in the bliss of the light ice spraying in your face as you glide across the frozen water. Bring family and friends to experience the majesticness as well. 

Skiing/Snowboarding at Sugar Mountain

Date(s): November 15th – March 27th

Hour: 8:00 a.m. — 5.00 p.m.

Cost: Adults $31 and Children $22

There’s nothing like hitting the slopes on the beautiful mountains of North Carolina. Open seven days a week, Sugar Mountain Resort is a guaranteed fun time with fellow skiers. Available until March, don’t miss the chance to ride the glistening slopes of Sugar Mountain. Bring warm clothes because it can get chilly!