Even with low temps, it’s worth it to get out of the house this weekend – and you’ll have cozy, door-to-door transportation thanks to Lyft.
Plus, get $5 off your first two Lyft rides using code LYFTWITHAGENDA.
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14
51. 100% chance of rain.
Food & Drink
A Cup on Us at Undercurrent Coffee: Show your Bumble app and get your favorite coffee drink or baked good for free. 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Free. Details.
Can Release at Red Clay Ciderworks: They’re releasing Cran Eye For The Orange Guy, a cranberry cider with orange zest and just a touch of coriander and fennel. 3-11 p.m. Free admission. Details.
Hands-on Mixology Class at Sweet Spot Studio CLT: In preparation for all of the hosting you’ll be doing over the holidays, learn how to make syrups, fruits and infusions to make the best cocktails. Class includes three full-size cocktails and cheese and charcuterie. 6:30-8:30 p.m. $70. Details.
Charlotte Vegan Drinks: December Edition at Salud Beer Shop: Meet up with fellow vegans and The Humane League and enjoy vegan drinks and the restaurant’s new vegan pizzas. 7-9 p.m. Free admission. Details.
Arts & Entertainment
“A Christmas Carol” at Theatre Charlotte: Theatre Charlotte’s holiday tradition is back for its 12th season with the classic tale of hard-hearted Ebenezer Scrooge who is visited by the ghost of his late partner, Jacob Marley and the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future. You once again meet such beloved characters as Fezziwig, Belle, Bob Cratchit, nephew Fred and, of course, Tiny Tim. 7:30 p.m. $28. Details.
“Nutcracker” at Belk Theater: Don’t miss the quintessential holiday experience with the sights and sounds of the Nutcracker. Join Clara, the Mouse King and the iconic Sugar Plum Fairy for a stunning performance of a holiday classic with breathtaking sets, costumes, choreography by Jean-Pierre Bonnefoux and music from the Charlotte Symphony. Pro tip: Agenda readers get $5 off per ticket in zones 1-4 with code AGENDA. 7:30 p.m. $25-$125 ($5 off with code AGENDA). Details.
Magic of Christmas at Knight Theater at Levine Center for the Arts: From snow falling in the theater to sing-alongs and Santa, this holiday performance is a can’t-miss for the whole family. 7:30 p.m. $19+. Details.
“The Best Christmas Pageant Ever: The Musical” at Children’s Theatre of Charlotte – Uptown at ImaginOn: Back by popular demand is Children’s Theatre of Charlotte’s most-popular holiday show. What happens when the “worst kids in the history of the world” find out about free food at Sunday school? Worse yet, what happens when they decide to audition for the annual Christmas pageant? This could be the worst pageant ever … if it even happens. This hilarious and heartfelt musical comedy, adapted from Barbara Robinson’s classic story, will have your family laughing and crying as you celebrate the holidays. 7:30 p.m. $15+. Details.
“Be A Lion The Musical” at Duke Energy Theater at Spirit Square: Find out what happened after Dorothy clicked her heals with this musical that picks up where the wiz left off. 8 p.m. $20. Details.
Penny Penniworth at FROCK Shop: The “lost epic of Charles Dickens” about crime and love is brought to life in an immersive production. 8-10 p.m. $25. Details.
Live for Music Masquerade AFSP Benefit Show at The Rabbit Hole: They’ll have live music performances from four different acts, comedy hosts, art vendors on site and more to benefit the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. 8 p.m. to 1 a.m. $10. Details.
Experience
Gingerbread Lane at The Ballantyne: Walk through rows of homemade gingerbread houses and donate at least $1 if you want to vote on your favorite. All day Free, $1+ to donate. Details.
Photos with Santa at SouthPark Mall at SouthPark Mall: Santa is here for the holiday season and it’s photo time at the SouthPark Mall. Pro tip: reserve your spot in advance so there’s no wait time. Varies Free. Details.
Christmas at the Library at The Billy Graham Library: Come celebrate the birth of Christ with fun, family activities at the Billy Graham Library. Enjoy light displays and Christ-centered festivities with families from across the Southeast who have made this an annual tradition. Most activities begin at 5 p.m. Free. Details.
Santa’s Workshop at Blakeney Shopping Centers: Visit Santa in his workshop for the perfect photo opportunity. 1-6 p.m. $20-$30. Details.
Winter Wonderland at SouthPark Mall: The holiday season is here and SouthPark’s own Winter Wonderland is Charlotte’s favorite open-air ice-skating rink, not to mention, the ultimate Instagram photo op. This year, the rink is 40 percent bigger and features fun for the entire family including a daily afternoon snowfall, holiday lights and decor, Santa’s Pub and more. Don’t miss the special events, guests and activities throughout the season, including 103.7 WSOC bringing a Country Christmas to the rink. 3 p.m. to midnight. $0+. Details.
Charlotte Christmas Village at Corner of 7th Street and North Tryon: Inspired by traditional European Christmas markets, there will be a German bakery, Austrian strudels and other festive treats. Wash it all down with German Glühwein, a mulled spiced wine. You can also expect trivia, live entertainment, a Santa Village, vendors and more. 3 p.m. Free. Details.
Weihnachtsmarkt at The Olde Mecklenburg Brewery: Shop more than 45 vendors selling great gifts at this traditional German Christmas market. They’ll also have festive beers and mulled wine served hot and fresh. 4-9 p.m. Free. Details.
Holidays in the Garden at Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden: Daniel Stowe’s annual Holidays in the Garden event includes about a mile of lights – some synchronized with music – a Christmas village display, visits from Santa and more. Explore the gardens and then sit by a fire pit to roast marshmallows and sip on something warm. 5-9 p.m. Price varies. Details.
WinterFest at Carowinds: The park will come alive with a nightly tree lighting, ice skating rink, decorations, performances and more. 5-10 p.m. $26. Details.
Holiday Carriage Rides at The Arboretum Shopping Center: Take a festive carriage ride through the center. Pick ups are at the patio by Mickey & Mooch. 6:30-8:30 p.m. Free. Details.
Ugly Christmas Sweater Party at Loft & Cellar: Put on your ugliest sweater and come jam out to Kelvin Little Djfuzz. 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. Free. Details.
Fitness
Plaza Midwood “Running of the Balls” 5K at Resident Culture Brewery Company: Run through the streets of historic Plaza Midwood under the lights from hundreds of decorative Christmas light balls. After the race, they’ll have a mixer at the brewery. 7-8 p.m. $0-$20. Details.
Learn Things
Charlotte Talks Local News Roundup Live at 7th Street Public Market: Join Mike Collins and the roundtable of reporters as they discuss the week’s top local news stories in a live recording. 9-10 a.m. Free. Details.
All Things Kubernetes at Skookum – 201 S. Tryon St. Floor 15: Kubernetes has been a popular technology for quite some time for managing and deploying applications, and there are many concepts and techniques to fully understand their power. Skookum’s Rizchel Dayao will give an in-depth view of Kubernetes from beginner to advanced level. As usual, enjoy free pizza while you learn. Noon to 1 p.m. Free. Details.
Adult Art Party: Hand-Marbled Papers at Mint Museum Uptown: Go on a private mini-tour, enjoy an adult beverage with a friend and create colorful works of art on paper. BYO and pre-registration required. 6-8:30 p.m. $40. Details.
Sports
Charlotte Hornets v. New York Knicks at Spectrum Center: Cheer on the Hornets as they take on the New York Knicks. The first 10,000 will get a bobblehead. 7 p.m. $15+. Details.
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 15
56. 40% chance of scattered showers
Food & Drink
Holiday Secrets & Appetizers at Upstream Seafood: Learn how to make six different appetizers and taste the wines the pair best with them. 10 a.m. $48. Details.
1st Can Release at Divine Barrel Brewing: They’ll be selling two beers, Cadillac Rainbows and Foamy Weather, in 4-packs for the first time, plus Villian Coffee Company will be brewing on site and Ego Food Co. will serve breakfast. 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Free admission. Details.
Donuts & Cocoa with Santa at RiverGate Shopping Center: Take photos with Santa, enjoy donuts and hot cocoa, and visit with the balloon artist. 10 a.m. to noon. Free. Details.
Bottle Release at NoDa Brewing Company: They’re releasing a very limited amount of Monstro, a deep brew with oats, vanilla, molasses and oak. They’ll have TIN Kitchen on site and a free brewery tour at 4 p.m. 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Free. Details.
Boozy Brunch at Que Onda Tacos Uptown: They’re launching booze with brunch for the first time and doing it right with bottomless food, $3 mimosas, $5 margaritas and more. 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. $20 for food, drinks extra. Details.
Beer Release at Triple C Brewing Company: They’re releasing their Resiliance IPA, brewed in honor of those in Butte County. One hundred percent of the sales will be donated to the Sierra Nevada Camp Fire Relief Fund. Noon to 10 pm. Free admission. Details.
Pet Nat, Pȃté and Price’s Fried Chicken at Vin Master Wine Shop: Enjoy Pet Nat wines, perfectly paired with Pȃté and Fried Chicken, plus a cooking demo. 3:30-5:30 p.m. $25. Details.
Vodka Latke 2018 at 1750 Camden Road: Join Torah on Tap, Moishe House Charlotte and other young Jewish professions as they try and cram 8 days into one night. They’ll have potato/sweet potato latkes, a variety of donuts and limited adult beverages. 8-11 p.m. $8 in advance. Details.
Arts & Entertainment
“The Best Christmas Pageant Ever: The Musical” at Children’s Theatre of Charlotte – Uptown at ImaginOn: Back by popular demand is Children’s Theatre of Charlotte’s most-popular holiday show! What happens when the “worst kids in the history of the world” find out about free food at Sunday school? Worse yet, what happens when they decide to audition for the annual Christmas pageant? This could be the worst pageant ever … if it even happens. This hilarious and heartfelt musical comedy, adapted from Barbara Robinson’s classic story, will have your family laughing and crying as you celebrate the holidays. 11 a.m. & 3 p.m. $15+. Details.
“Magic of Christmas” at Knight Theater at Levine Center for the Arts: From snow falling in the theater to sing-alongs and Santa, this holiday performance is a can’t-miss for the whole family. 11 a.m. & 7:30 p.m. $19+. Details.
“Nutcracker” at Belk Theater: Don’t miss the quintessential holiday experience with the sights and sounds of the Nutcracker. Join Clara, the Mouse King and the iconic Sugar Plum Fairy for a stunning performance of a holiday classic with breathtaking sets, costumes, choreography by Jean-Pierre Bonnefoux and music from the Charlotte Symphony. Pro tip: Agenda readers get $5 off per ticket in zones 1-4 with code AGENDA. 2 & 7 p.m. $25-$125 ($5 off with code AGENDA). Details.
Disney’s “The Little Mermaid” at Leving JCC: See the classic Disney fairytale brought to life on stage. 2 p.m. & 7 p.m. $12 in advance. Details.
“Be A Lion The Musical” at Duke Energy Theater at Spirit Square: Find out what happened after Dorothy clicked her heals with this musical that picks up where the wiz left off. 2:30 p.m. & 8 p.m. $20. Details.
“A Christmas Carol” at Theatre Charlotte: Theatre Charlotte’s holiday tradition is back for its 12th season with the classic tale of hard-hearted Ebenezer Scrooge who is visited by the ghost of his late partner, Jacob Marley and the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future. You once again meet such beloved characters as Fezziwig, Belle, Bob Cratchit, nephew Fred and, of course, Tiny Tim. 2:30 p.m. & 7:30 p.m. $28. Details.
Punk Rock Smackdown Holiday Special at Tommy’s Pub: They’ve got 10 bands lined up to perform at the ultimate punk rock showdown. 5 p.m. to 2 a.m. Free. Details.
“The Nutcracker” at Keppel Auditorium at Catawba College: See the production by the Piedmont School of Music & Dance and the Salisbury Symphony. 6:30 p.m. $25. Details.
Tribute to the 80’s at Neighborhood Theatre: The concert benefitting Levine Children’s Hospital will pay tribute to The Police, Hall & Oates, Tina Turner and more. 8 p.m. $10-$25. Details.
Penny Penniworth at FROCK Shop: The “lost epic of Charles Dickens” about crime and love is brought to life in an immersive production. 8-10 p.m. $25. Details.
Experience
Gingerbread Lane at The Ballantyne: Walk through rows of homemade gingerbread houses and donate at least $1 if you want to vote on your favorite. All day Free, $1+ to donate. Details.
Photos with Santa at SouthPark Mall at SouthPark Mall: Santa is here for the holiday season and it’s photo time at the SouthPark Mall. Pro tip: reserve your spot in advance so there’s no wait time. Varies Free. Details.
Restore Grand Opening at Restore Hyper Wellness + Cryotherapy – SouthPark: No appointments necessary so stop by and take advantage of their opening specials like free cryotherapy and compression and 20 percent off all other services. 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. $0+. Details.
Christmas at the Library at The Billy Graham Library: Come celebrate the birth of Christ with fun, family activities at the Billy Graham Library. Enjoy light displays and Christ-centered festivities with families from across the Southeast who have made this an annual tradition. Most activities begin at 5 p.m. Free. Details.
Winter Wonderland at SouthPark Mall: The holiday season is here and SouthPark’s own Winter Wonderland is Charlotte’s favorite open-air ice-skating rink, not to mention, the ultimate Instagram photo op. This year, the rink is 40 percent bigger and features fun for the entire family including a daily afternoon snowfall, holiday lights and decor, Santa’s Pub and more. Pop-up vendors will be on-site this day, too. 11 a.m. to midnight $0+. Details.
Charlotte Christmas Village at Corner of 7th Street and North Tryon: Inspired by traditional European Christmas markets, there will be a German bakery, Austrian strudels and other festive treats. Wash it all down with German Glühwein, a mulled spiced wine. You can also expect trivia, live entertainment, a Santa Village, vendors and more. 11 a.m. Free. Details.
West End Holiday Home Tour at West End neighborhood: Explore festive homes in the neighborhood that are on the market. Each stop will have activities like music, photos with Santa, s’mores, ugly sweater contests and more. 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Free. Details.
Paza Midwood Christmas Bar Crawl/QuietParty/Santacon Starting at The Rabbit Hole: Start the night off with a silent disco, then parade the neighborhood bars in your best holiday outfits. Noon to 6 p.m. $0+. Details.
Holidays at the Homesite at Charlotte Museum of History: Learn more about how the people of Charlotte have spent their Decembers over the past 250 years. They’ll have kids crafts, holiday-themed tours, live music and special guests. Noon to 4 p.m. $7-$10. Details.
Santa’s Workshop at Blakeney Shopping Centers: Visit Santa in his workshop for the perfect photo opportunity. 1-6 p.m. $20-$30. Details.
Holiday Magic at The Arboretum Shopping Center: Enjoy face painting, trackless trains, horse carriage rides, and meet-and-greets with Santa. 2-5 p.m. Free. Details.
Weihnachtsmarkt at The Olde Mecklenburg Brewery: Shop more than 45 vendors selling great gifts at this traditional German Christmas market. They’ll also have festive beers and mulled wine served hot and fresh. Santa will also be making an appearance this day. 2-9 p.m. Free. Details.
Wilson’s Stuff The Truck Wrap Party at Sugar Creek Brewing: School of Rock will be performing and they’ll be accepting monetary donations or unwrapped toys to benefit the Salvation Army. Plus, a Fender Guitar Kit is up for grabs in the raffle. 5-8 p.m. Donation. Details.
Holidays in the Garden at Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden: Daniel Stowe’s annual Holidays in the Garden event includes about a mile of lights – some synchronized with music – a Christmas village display, visits from Santa and more. Explore the gardens and then sit by a fire pit to roast marshmallows and sip on something warm. 5-9 p.m. Price varies. Details.
WinterFest at Carowinds: The park will come alive with a nightly tree lighting, ice skating rink, decorations, performances and more. 5-10 p.m. $26. Details.
Deck the Bars Crawl at Vida Vida: Visit four bars with no covers and drink specials at each to get you in the holiday spirit. 5 p.m. to 2 a.m. $10. Details.
Holiday Carriage Rides at The Arboretum Shopping Center: Take a festive carriage ride through the center. Pick ups are at the patio by Mickey & Mooch. 6:30-8:30 p.m. Free. Details.
Up On The Rooftop at City Lights Rooftop: Come out to eat, drink and be merry in your ugliest sweater or most festive onesie. Santa and some other celebrities will be making an appearance and they’ll have festive cocktails. 8-10 p.m. $15. Details.
Ugly Christmas Sweater Party at Graham Street Pub & Patio: Show off your ugliest holiday sweater and you could be going home with $100 in cash (1st place) or Hornets tickets (2nd place). They’ll have a DJ and drink specials all night. 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. Free. Details.
Uptown Swagga’s Black & Red Holiday Gala at The Blue Line Event Center: See Charlotte’s preiere Go-Go band, Uptown Swagga, while you enjoy hors d’oeuvres and holiday drink specials. They’ll also be accepting donations and unwrapped toys. 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. $12-$85. Details.
Ugly Sweater Party at Blackfinn Ameripub: Wear your worst and get drink specials starting at $3. 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. Free. Details.
A Very MOVE Christmas at Crown Station: Experience the miracle of Christmas with nonstop House music all night. 21+. 11 p.m. to 2:30 a.m. $10. Details.
Fitness
Santa Run 8K and Snowman Dash at Romare Bearden Park: Don your favorite holiday costume and get in the holiday spirit with a run through uptown. Your registration includes some props to help you look your best. 9-11 a.m. $25-$45. Details.
We Believe Santa 5k and Dog Jog at USNWC: Take a brisk trot through the woods in your best red coat and white beard, and then afterwards take Fido for a spin. They’ll have a Santa look-alike contest and other giveaways after the run. Noon to 3 p.m. $30-$37. Details.
Learn-Sweat-Stretch at Lenny Boy Brewing Co.: Join Sweatnet for the last workout of the year with will include a muscle activation warm up, a sweat session with new equipment, and a yoga cool down. BYO mat and water. 1-2 p.m. Free. Details.
The Charlotte Pizza 5k Run at Mallard Creek Community Park: The only race where the carboloading happens during the race. You’ll eat one slice of pizza just before you start, and then another slice at the pizza station halfway through the course. Proceeds will benefit the charity Sassy Caps. 2-4 p.m. $20-$30. Details.
Sports
Hockey at Bojangles’ Coliseum: Cheer on the Checkers as they take on the Hartford Wolf Pack. Bring a teddy bear to donate and participate in the Teddy Bear Toss. 6 p.m. $18.50+. Details.
Charlotte Hornets v. Los Angeles Lakers at Spectrum Center: Cheer on the Hornets as they take on the Los Angeles Lakers. 7 p.m. $152+. Details.
Kids
A Day in the Life: Health Sciences and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Education at Discovery Place Science: Come and learn about the Carolinas College of Health Sciences and all the programs they offer students including nursing, medical laboratory scientists, histotechnologists and much more. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Included in admission. Details.
Holiday Craft and Story Time Event at Julia’s Café & Books: Bring the kids for crafting (making ornaments and bookmarks), story time with Erma the Bookworma and a visit from Santa. 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Free. Details.
Books, Boys and Bowties: A Literacy Luncheon at Charlotte Mecklenburg Library – University City Regional: This event will focus on empowering boys in both Elementary and Middle School through books while engaging them in discussions about other aspects of self-awareness through guest speakers, hands-on activities and food. 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. $25 for boys, $15 for parents. Details.
Sugar Plum Tea Party at Open Door Studios: Enjoy an afternoon tea with the Sugar Plum Queen and make an ornament keepsake to take home with you. Proceeds will benefit the Open Door Dance Foundation. Ages 4-8 recommended. Noon & 1:15 p.m. $15. Details.
Shopping
Uptown Flea at 700 N. Tryon St.: It’s the last installment of the year so come finish up your holiday shopping with local and vintage businesses. They’ll also have food trucks and live music on site. 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. $1. Details.
Holiday Market at NoDa Company Store: Come and buy locally made gifts and shop for your local produce at this combo holiday/farmer’s market. 9 a.m. to 3 p .m. (farmer’s market ends at noon) Free. Details.
Give Real Pop-Up Tour at 7th Street & N. Tryon: Aerie is popping up for a charity shopping event. 50% of all proceeds will be donated to Charlotte non-profit EmpowHERment, Inc., and they’ll have free gifts with purchase, including hot cocoa for the first 200 customers. No cash accepted. 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Free. Details.
Girl Tribe Pop Up at Girl Tribe Laboratory: Shop from more than 90 women-led businesses, take great photos, enjoy a cocktail bar by Sycamore brewing and get plenty of holiday surprises. VIP shoppers will receive a reusable Girl Tribe bag, a #GirlTribePopUp bracelet and more. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. $0-$20. Details.
Vape Showcase at The Park Expo and Conference Center: The massive showcase is making its way to the city for one weekend only. 2-7 p.m. Free. Details.
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 16
54. 40% chance of scattered showers.
Food & Drink
Three Years of Friends and Beer at Legion Brewing SouthPark: They’re celebrating three years in business with free photos with Santa (donations accepted), a birthday brunch, cookie decorating and hot cocoa for kids, and beer samples and a new colalboration whiskey for the adults. 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Free. Details.
Holiday Bake Sale at Sweet Spot Sudio CLT: Local bakeries and coffee shops are teaming up for a one-stop holiday shopping event with cookies, coffee, cocktails and more. 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Free. Details.
Resident Culture Brewing Company Beer Dinner at The Cellar at Duckworth’s: They’re pairing the brews with a chef-curated six-course menu using local produce. 1-4 p.m. $75. Details.
Wine Pairing at Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden: Join special guest Chef Chad Hutcheson of the String Bean in Belmont, six-time winner of the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence, for an afternoon of small bites and wine samples before Holidays at the Garden. 3-5 p.m. $65. Details.
Jolly Lollies Holiday Shindig at The Suffolk Punch: Enjoy crafts, drinks and food (including cookies from Cookie Cult), mischievous Elves, a screening of Charlie Brown Christmas and an appearance from Santa himself. 4:30-6:30 p.m. $8. Details.
5th Annual Chili Cook Off at The Unknown Brewing Company: All you need to do is show up, eat chili, drink beer, jam out to live music and decide who has the best chili in Charlotte. 2-6 p.m. $10. Details.
Arts & Entertainment
Classic Rock Benefit Concert at The Rabbit Hole: See the band Decarlo (the lead singer is also the current lead singer from BOSTON) while raising money for VictoryLife House. The organization helps women who are overcoming domestic violence. 4-7 p.m. $25 in advance. Details.
“The Best Christmas Pageant Ever: The Musical” at Children’s Theatre of Charlotte – Uptown at ImaginOn: Back by popular demand is Children’s Theatre of Charlotte’s most-popular holiday show! What happens when the “worst kids in the history of the world” find out about free food at Sunday school? Worse yet, what happens when they decide to audition for the annual Christmas pageant? This could be the worst pageant ever … if it even happens. This hilarious and heartfelt musical comedy, adapted from Barbara Robinson’s classic story, will have your family laughing and crying as you celebrate the holidays. 2 p.m. & 4 p.m. $15+. Details.
“Nutcracker” at Belk Theater: Join Clara, the Mouse King and the iconic Sugar Plum Fairy for a stunning performance of a holiday classic with breathtaking sets, costumes, choreography by Jean-Pierre Bonnefoux and music from the Charlotte Symphony. Pro tip: Agenda readers get $5 off per ticket in zones 1-4 with code AGENDA. 2 p.m. & 7 p.m. $25-$125 ($5 off with code AGENDA). Details.
“The Nutcracker: Remix” at Booth Playhouse at Blumenthal Performing Arts: This version brings a wide variety of styles including jazz, lyrical, contemporary, hip hop, tap and ballet to the classic holiday tale. 2 p.m. & 6 p.m. $10-$15 in advance. Details.
Disney’s The Little Mermaid at Leving JCC: See the classic Disney fairytale brought to life on stage. 2 p.m. $12 in advance. Details.
“A Christmas Carol” at Theatre Charlotte: Theatre Charlotte’s holiday tradition is back for its 12th season with the classic tale of hard-hearted Ebenezer Scrooge who is visited by the ghost of his late partner, Jacob Marley and the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future. You once again meet such beloved characters as Fezziwig, Belle, Bob Cratchit, nephew Fred and, of course, Tiny Tim. 2:30 p.m. & 6 p.m. $28. Details.
“The Nutcracker” at Keppel Auditorium at Catawba College: See the production by the Piedmont School of Music & Dance and the Salisbury Symphony. 2:30 p.m. $25. Details.
Magic of Christmas at Knight Theater at Levine Center for the Arts: From snow falling in the theater to sing-alongs and Santa, this holiday performance is a can’t-miss for the whole family. 3 p.m. & 7:30 p.m. $19+. Details.
“A Charlie Brown Christmas” at Ovens Auditorium: See your favorite holiday classic tale brought to life as the touring production comes to Charlotte. 7 p.m. $25-$65. Details.
Experience
Gingerbread Lane at The Ballantyne: Walk through rows of homemade gingerbread houses and donate at least $1 if you want to vote on your favorite. All day Free, $1+ to donate. Details.
Photos with Santa at SouthPark Mall at SouthPark Mall: Santa is here for the holiday season and it’s photo time at the SouthPark Mall. Pro tip: reserve your spot in advance so there’s no wait time. Varies Free. Details.
Winter Wonderland at SouthPark Mall: The holiday season is here and SouthPark’s own Winter Wonderland is Charlotte’s favorite open-air ice-skating rink, not to mention, the ultimate Instagram photo op. This year, the rink is 40 percent bigger and features fun for the entire family including a daily afternoon snowfall, holiday lights and decor, Santa’s Pub and more. Don’t miss the special events, guests and activities throughout the season, including 103.7 WSOC bringing a Country Christmas to the rink. 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. $0+. Details.
Charlotte Christmas Village at Corner of 7th Street and North Tryon: Inspired by traditional European Christmas markets, there will be a German bakery, Austrian strudels and other festive treats. Wash it all down with German Glühwein, a mulled spiced wine. You can also expect trivia, live entertainment, a Santa Village, vendors and more. 11 a.m. Free. Details.
Christmas In Candyland Tour at Victory Lane Karting: Experience the ultimate Christmas experience complete with photos with Santa, free toy giveaways, gift bags, festive bowling and go-karts and more. 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Free. Details.
Santa’s Workshop at Blakeney Shopping Centers: Visit Santa in his workshop for the perfect photo opportunity. Noon to 4 p.m. $20-$30. Details.
Christmas Party and Toy Drive at QueenCity Bicycles: Bring an unwrapped toy to donate and chow down on something hot off the grill. 1-5 p.m. Free. Details.
Christmas Party at Tyber Creek Pub: Celebrate the holidays the Irish way with kids activities (bounce house, visits with Santa and crafts), mulled wine, raffles, carols, Irish Christmas treats and more. 2 p.m. Free. Details.
Holidays in the Garden at Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden: Daniel Stowe’s annual Holidays in the Garden event includes about a mile of lights – some synchronized with music – a Christmas village display, visits from Santa and more. Explore the gardens and then sit by a fire pit to roast marshmallows and sip on something warm. 5-9 p.m. Price varies. Details.
WinterFest at Carowinds: The park will come alive with a nightly tree lighting, ice skating rink, decorations, performances and more. 5-10 p.m. $26. Details.
Fitness
Sunday Funday Runday For The Animals at Flying Biscuit Cafe: They’ve got a full day planned with four different run times with different distances at each plus a raffle benefitting the Humane Society. 6:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Free/Donation. Details.
Ri Ra 5K Santa Run at Ri Ra’s Uptown: We know you’ve always dreamed of running through Uptown as Santa and now is your chance. Register for the Ri Ra 5K Santa Run where 100 percent of profits will be donated to the Patriot Military Family Foundation. Registration includes a Santa suit, t-shirt, a beer and ceremony after the race with live entertainment. 3 p.m. $40. Details.
Annual Holiday Lights Run at Omega Sports: Wear your most festive running outfit and run among the lights. Afterward, they’ll have food, drinks, raffles and more. 6-8 p.m. Free. Details.
Do Good
Jingle Bell Adoption Day at Pet People (Waverly): Give a dog the ultimate gift: a home for the holidays. 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Free. Details.
Shopping
Vape Showcase at The Park Expo and Conference Center: The massive showcase is making its way to the city for one weekend only. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Free. Details.
Pop Up Shops at SouthPark Mall: Shop local at the mall so that you can get all of your holiday shopping done in one spot. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Free. Details.
Shop Drop ‘N Roll Winter Market at NoDa Brewing Company: This seasonal market will be focused on all things crafting, so you can shop hand-crafted goods from tons of local businesses. They’ll also have giveaways and a portion of all proceeds will be donated to a local charity. Noon to 5 p.m. Free. Details.
Pop Up Gift Event at Ballantyne Village: Shop local handmade artisans to round out your holiday shopping and the Charlotte Hornets Nest Girl Scout Troup 702 will provide free gift wrapping. Noon to 4 p.m. Free. Details.
Just in time for Christmas Vendor’s Extravaganza at Banquet 49: Shop all of your favorite vendors selling things like jewelry, cosmetics, decor, baked goods and more. 2-5 p.m. Free. Details.
Pop-Up Bake Sale in the North Polaroid at Wooden Robot Brewery: Take polaroid pictures with Santa and enjoy baked goods from local bakeries. 2-6 p.m. Free. Details.
ON THE AGENDA
New Year’s Eve Block Party in NoDa: Crêpe Cellar, Growlers Pourhouse, and Haberdish will be throwing an all-night party with a cocktail hour, four-course dinner with paired drinks, a champagne toast and an after-party. You’ll choose your dinner location in advance and then you can roam freely between the restaurants for the rest of the night. They’ll also have live entertainment, photo ops and DJs throughout the night. December 31.
2019 Official Onesie Bar Crawl in Uptown: Keep warm and go out in style and comfort! Pull on your favorite onesie and hit some of the best bars in Uptown. Ticket includes an LED bracelet that will guide you through the crawl, a souvenir cup, drink specials and access to bars with DJs, photographers, swag and more. January 12.
Bulldog Beauty Pageant at Lucky Dog Bark & Brew: Bullies from all over will come dressed in their best and vie for titles like Best Butt Wiggle, Mr. & Mrs. Congeniality, Best Smile and more. Proceeds from the event will benefit benefit Bullies 2 The Rescue. December 26.
See all the upcoming events here.
