The Lake Norman area is known for its scenic waterfront views, vibrant communities and charming small towns. During the holiday season, this area comes alive with some of the most impressive Christmas light displays and festive events in the state. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, here are some of the best Christmas light displays and events around Lake Norman that are sure to bring holiday cheer to everyone.
Christmas at Birkdale Village (Huntersville)
Birkdale Village, located in Huntersville, is a popular outdoor shopping center that transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season. The center is beautifully adorned with thousands of twinkling lights and festive decorations. Visitors can enjoy strolling through the area while listening to holiday music, and there’s a large Christmas tree in the center square that is a focal point of the display.
Highlights:
- A large, well-decorated Christmas tree
- Holiday lights on all the storefronts
- Visits with Santa Claus
- Birkdale on Ice: Ice skating rink
- Special events, including holiday markets and entertainment
Birkdale Village’s Christmas lights display is a favorite for families with its mix of retail therapy, beautiful light displays and family friendly activities.
McAdenville (The Christmas Town USA) – McAdenville
Just a short drive from the Lake Norman area, McAdenville is a hidden gem for those who love traditional Christmas displays. McAdenville, known as “Christmas Town USA,” has been a holiday destination for more than 60 years. The entire town, with its quaint homes and tree-lined streets, is lit up with more than 600,000 lights.
Highlights:
- More than 600,000 lights decorating homes, churches and the town’s landmark areas
- Tree Lighting Ceremony – December 2nd
- A Yule Log Parade – December 12th
- A lake full of floating Christmas trees
- Christmas music played in the town square
When to Visit: December 2nd through the 26th. The lights are turned on each night at 5:30 p.m.
McAdenville’s Christmas Town USA is one of the most iconic Christmas light displays in the Charlotte region, drawing thousands of visitors every year.
Charlotte Motor Speedway – Speedway Christmas (Concord)
While technically a bit outside the immediate Lake Norman area, Speedway Christmas at the Charlotte Motor Speedway is a must-see for those who enjoy large, immersive holiday light shows. It features the largest drive-through Christmas light show in North Carolina with more than five million lights on display.
Highlights:
- More than five million lights and themed light displays
- A drive-through experience that lets you explore the expansive light show at your own pace
- A walk-through Christmas village with Santa, food and festive activities
- A massive holiday tree and photo ops
- Special holiday events like movie nights and Santa’s Workshop
When to Visit: Speedway Christmas is typically open from late November through January 5th from 6:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. Be sure to check for event details and schedule.
This massive light display is a holiday tradition for many families, offering a memorable experience for those who want to explore a wide range of light displays and enjoy other holiday festivities.
Holidays at the Garden at Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden (Belmont)
Located just a short drive from Lake Norman, the Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden in Belmont offers a serene and breathtaking holiday display. The Holidays at the Garden features an enchanting display of lights set among the beautiful gardens. The light show is perfect for those who want a quieter, more peaceful experience amidst the natural beauty of the gardens.
Highlights:
- Thousands of twinkling lights set throughout the botanical gardens
- Festive decorations and seasonal displays in the gardens
- Holiday themed exhibits including model trains and an outdoor Christmas village
- Special holiday events like visits with Santa, trackless train rides and family activities
When to Visit: The festival runs from late November through December from 5:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. Tuesdays through Sundays.
The Lake Norman area offers a wide variety of spectacular Christmas light displays and festive events, from traditional town-wide displays like McAdenville to large-scale, immersive shows at places like the Charlotte Motor Speedway. Whether you prefer to drive through twinkling light tunnels, stroll through a winter wonderland or visit with Santa, there’s something for everyone in this scenic and festive region.
So, pack up the family, bundle up for the chilly nights and experience the magic of the season in the Lake Norman area. Whether you’re visiting or a local resident, these holiday displays are sure to make the Christmas season brighter!
