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The Latest Weekly Newsletter From Carolina Traveler: Wow Your Guests This Holiday Season

Ah, the holidays—the season of joy, togetherness, and silently screaming into your coffee mug while your in-laws debate the “right” way to carve a turkey. Luckily, the Carolinas are here to save the day (and your sanity). With crisp winter air, dazzling lights, and enough holiday activities to keep even the most opinionated family members distracted, you’ll find everything you need to make this season magical. Whether you’re trying to dazzle your in-laws or just hide from them in a scenic small-town café, the Carolinas have your back. From skating rinks to holiday light displays, there are plenty of ways to keep everyone entertained—and keep your sanity intact.

Dazzle Your In-Laws (or at Least Distract Them)

Hosting for Thanksgiving this weekend? Sure, Aunt Carol is already critiquing your gravy, and Uncle Bob’s been “fixing” your Wi-Fi since sunrise, but fear not—escape is just a sleigh ride away. Treat your family to the Carolinas’ best holiday adventures.

A Hallmark Holiday in Thomasville

Ever wanted to step into a holiday movie? Thomasville, NC is the place for you! With its cozy charm and streets dressed in their Christmas best, this little town will transport you into a winter wonderland. Sip hot cocoa, browse local shops, and take in the glow of festive lights. This is where the magic of the season feels as authentic as it looks.

The Best Holiday Events Around the Carolinas

There’s no shortage of holiday spirit here. From tree lightings and live performances to bustling craft fairs and parades, the Carolinas offer a lineup of events that make every weekend feel like a celebration. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly outing or a romantic evening out, you’ll find events that speaks to your holiday style.

Redfin Asked Us for Things To Do in Charlotte

Whether you’re looking to buy a house in Charlotte, NC, or rent an apartment or home in the area, you’ll find plenty of reasons to love this city. In this Redfin article, you’ll explore some of these unique things to do in Charlotte, NC that you’ll only find here:

7 Unique Things to Do in Charlotte, NC: The city to remember | Redfin

Win VIP Tickets to Holiday Light Spectacular 

Over one million lights, festive music, and a little holiday magic await—and you could win it all. Enter daily for your chance to score four tickets and make your holidays sparkle a little brighter.

Find the Perfect Holiday Hotel Deal

Heading out of town? The best trips always start with the best places to stay. Compare rates from hundreds of booking sites and find the hotel that fits your budget and your holiday vibe. Whether you’re splurging on luxury or cozying up in a charming inn, we’ve got you covered.


A Glow-Up for Your Holiday Nights

Whether you’re in the mood for nostalgia, magic, or just need something to outdo your neighbor’s inflatable Santa, we’ve got options:

  • The Polar Express Train Ride (Spencer, NC): All aboard for the most whimsical ride of the season.
  • Holiday Festival of Lights (St. Johns Island, SC): A stunning display that will leave you spellbound.
  • Wild Lights at Riverbanks Zoo (Columbia, SC): Think twinkling lights plus exotic animals—perfect for the kiddos.
  • Magic of Lights at Hollywild (Wellford, SC): A magical mix of lights and wildlife.
  • Holiday Lights Spectacular (Charlotte, NC): Charlotte pulls out all the stops with this dazzling event.

Save Big, Travel More

Got family coming into town? Or maybe you’re planning a holiday escape yourself? Carolina Traveler has the inside scoop on unpublished hotel rates that’ll stretch your vacation dollars. Become a Tripfox Travel Club member and start planning that extended stay—or just bank the savings for more eggnog.

More VIP Perks You’ll Love

What’s better than having fun? Doing it for free. When you become a Carolina Traveler VIP, you’ll score free tickets to events worth over $200 annually. This year alone, that includes:

  • Kaminski House Holiday Magic
  • Christmas Carousel Holiday Market
  • Holiday Lights Spectacular

Sound too good to be true? It’s not. Just sign up and start reaping the rewards..

Want more ideas? Subscribe to the Carolina Traveler newsletter and make sure you don’t miss a single event.

Here’s to making your holidays as merry and bright as they can be.

Learn how to join our Carolina Traveler Facebook group and become a subscriber to the Carolina Traveler magazine!

Score a Discount on Charlotte Hornets Tickets

Charlotte Hornets logo

This winter, enhance your Charlotte Hornets experience with an exclusive offer from Carolina Traveler! Whether you're planning a fun family outing or a night out with friends, we’ve teamed up with the Hornets to provide discounted tickets without the usual Ticketmaster fees. Get the offer here! 

This season, make time for the experiences that matter most. Whether you’re skating under the stars, soaking up the charm of a festive town, or sharing a laugh courtside, the Carolinas are ready to make this your most memorable holiday yet.

For more exciting adventures, sign-up for our newsletter!

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