photos by: INGRID RUSSELL PHOTOGRAPHY
When December arrives in the Lake Norman area, this waterfront wonderland transforms into a magical holiday destination. From a legendary small town bathed in 600,000 lights to boats gliding across moonlit waters in festive splendor, here’s your insider’s guide to a few of the season’s many dazzling displays in our readership area. See our creative holiday articles and advertising throughout this month’s LKN Magazine for more imaginative ideas and engaging events.
Christmas Town USA: McAdenville
This is where holiday dreams come alive. Since 1956, the entire town has glowed with more than 600,000 lights, drawing more than half a million visitors each December. CBS Sunday Morning called it a “national treasure,” and one visit shows you why.
- December 1st-26th (5:30 – 10:00 p.m. nightly)
- Tree Lighting: December 1st at 5:30 p.m.
- Yule Log Parade: December 11th at 5:30 p.m. (a tradition since 1949)
Stroll past 250 illuminated evergreens, watch the color-changing fountain surrounded by floating Christmas trees, and let the church chimes transport you to a simpler time. The lake display with synchronized carols is pure enchantment.
Visit on weeknights for smaller crowds, and arrive early to grab dinner at Terra Mia Ristorante or craft beer at 115 Craft. Getting there from I-85, take Exit 26 (southbound) or Exit 22 (northbound) to 102 Main Street, McAdenville.
Lake Norman Lighted Holiday Boat Parade
Nothing says “Lake Norman Christmas” quite like dozens of boats decked out in dazzling lights, gliding across the water against a December night sky. On December 20, 2025 at 5:30 p.m., this annual event kicks off with the route taken starting from Blythe Landing to Ramsey Creek Park and ending at Duke Energy Explorium.
Watch from the shore as illuminated vessels create a floating light show, culminating with Santa’s grand arrival at the Explorium. But, here’s what makes this event truly special – it benefits TOYS for Little Smiles, a nonprofit delivering joy to children at Levine Children’s Hospital. Bring an unwrapped toy and help spread holiday cheer to kids who need it most. Every donation goes directly to a child in need. Perfect for a uniquely Lake Norman experience that combines spectacular views with meaningful giving.
Speedway Christmas at Charlotte Motor Speedway
Drive a NASCAR legend – surrounded by five million lights synchronized to holiday music. This four-mile journey around the iconic oval, pit road and infield is the southeast’s largest holiday light show. From November 21, 2025 – January 4, 2026 from 6:00 – 10:00 p.m. nightly, enjoy the awesome show.
Tune to 101.3 FM as lights dance to music around you. Stop at the Christmas Village, free with admission and open select nights for Santa visits, vendors and treats. Thursday through Sunday brings drive-in movies on the massive Speedway TV and the Cook Out Tubing Hill which is a separate ticket that incurs an additional cost.
Pricing: $35 Monday – Wednesday, $45 Thursday – Sunday (up to 15 passengers per vehicle). Save $5 with a Coca-Cola product at the gate. With the absolute best days to go being Sunday – Thursday evenings, or arrive right at 6:00 p.m. to beat the rush.
Holidays at the Garden at Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden
For something more serene, this walking wonderland weaves millions of lights through eight acres of botanical gardens. Located at 6500 S. New Hope Road, Belmont with free parking, it’s not just a light display – it is art. From November 28th through December 27th from 5:00 – 10:00 p.m., you can wander through illuminated formal gardens where fountains dance with color and trees come alive with light. Don’t miss the spectacular Orchid Tree outside the Great Hall – the ultimate photo backdrop. Warm up by outdoor fires while sipping hot cocoa, and explore model trains and fairy villages.
It is a walking tour, so dress warmly. Strollers and wheelchairs are welcome, and Big Leaf Café serves warm treats throughout the evening.
Botanical Garden Game Plan
- Weather-proof plans: All venues operate rain or shine – layer up for outdoor displays.
- Photo opportunities: The Orchid Tree at Daniel Stowe, McAdenville’s lake and the lighted boat parade offer frame-worthy moments.
Make a day of it: Combine experiences – skate at Birkdale, drive through McAdenville or pair the Botanical Garden with the Speedway Village.
