Explore historic theaters and discover winter festivals this winter!
History Takes Center Stage at 3 Must-Visit Theaters
There’s something magical about stepping out for a night at the theater, especially when that theater is steeped in history. Picture this: You trade in your slippers for a pair of heels, throw on your coziest winter coat, and head out to a venue that has witnessed decades of performances. Whether you’re enjoying a classic play, a Broadway musical, or a live concert, these historic theaters offer more than just a show—they offer a glimpse into a past filled with drama, glamour, and unforgettable moments. So, why not embrace the old-world charm of these iconic theaters and make a night of it?
From GHM Archives. Mss.Collection 11 (O. Henry)
Series 11:16. Full House photos
Discover 3 Fun Winter Festivals
Winter in the Carolinas is brimming with exciting festivals that are perfect for those who want to embrace the chill instead of hibernating. From January 23 to 26, Blowing Rock Winterfest transforms the picturesque town into a winter wonderland, featuring ice sculptures, a heartwarming dog show, and thrilling activities like the Polar Plunge and the Fire & Ice Chili Cook-Off. Then, from January 30 to February 2, NC Smokies Ice Fest Weekend in Haywood County offers live ice carving, an ice slide, and a variety of winter events, including a quirky penguin release and scenic winter hikes. For something a bit warmer, head to Charlotte on February 1 for the Southern Oyster Wine and Beer Festival, where you can shuck oysters, sip wines, and enjoy live music, with a self-shucking station for those who want to test their skills. These winter festivals are the perfect way to make winter unforgettable—so layer up and dive in!
Discover Asheboro
Discover Unforgettable Winter Destinations
When winter rolls into the Carolinas, it brings a refreshing chance to explore the region’s attractions without the usual crowds. From coastal getaways to wildlife encounters, and cultural gems, there’s no better time to visit charming small towns and experience the beauty of the season. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or an action-packed adventure, the Carolinas offer an unforgettable winter escape, perfect for everyone—from nature lovers to foodies. Bundle up, pack your bags, and get ready to discover the best winter destinations in the Carolinas for 2025!
♛ VIP Free Tickets to the Southern Oyster Festival
Oysters are in season, and we’ve got the VIP tickets you need to enjoy the best of them! Head to Charlotte for the Southern Oyster Festival, where you can indulge in oysters served up hot and cold. Get your tickets while they’re HOT—and enjoy a seafood feast like no other. Read more to claim your free tickets!
Compare Hotel Rates & Save
Traveling doesn’t have to break the bank! Our newsletter gives you access to the best hotel rate comparisons, so you can save up to 40% on your next stay. Whether it’s a weekend getaway or a week-long retreat, we’ll help you find the best deal. Learn more and start planning your next trip today!
Travel Fearlessly
Traveling is an adventure, but sometimes things don’t go as planned. In this week’s issue, we share some expert tips on how to travel fearlessly and handle unexpected emergencies with ease. With the right preparation, you can enjoy your travels with peace of mind. Learn more about smart travel practices to ensure a safe, stress-free journey.
Upcoming Events
Here’s a quick look at upcoming events across the Carolinas—perfect for planning your next adventure:
- Blowing Rock Winterfest – Jan 23 to Jan 26 | Blowing Rock, NC
- NC Smokies Ice Fest Weekend – Jan 30 to Feb 2 | Haywood, NC
- Southern Oyster, Wine & Beer Festival – Feb 1 | Charlotte, NC ♛ VIP Free Tix
- Great Outhouse Races – Feb 15 | Sapphire Valley, NC
- Beaufort's Mardi Gras – March 1 to March 3 | Beaufort, NC
- Rumba On The Lumber – March 7 to March 8 | Lumberton, NC
- Hilton Head IrishFest – March 15 | Hilton Head Island, SC
These are just some of the incredible events happening around the Carolinas! For more details and updates, make sure to subscribe to our newsletter and stay in the loop. Let’s make 2025 a year to remember!
♛ VIP Free Tix!
It’s the ultimate holiday giveaway — enter daily for a chance to win four VIP tickets to a dazzling holiday wonderland! With over a million lights, this event is a true spectacle that will leave you in awe. Read more to find out how you can win these exclusive tickets!
Be Prepared with Good Sam
Holiday travel can be stressful, but don’t let car trouble ruin your festive fun. With Good Sam’s Roadside Assistance Plan, you can rest easy knowing you’ve got comprehensive coverage on the road. Find out how Good Sam can keep your holiday travel plans on track, no matter where you’re headed.
Plan an Epic Trip to the Outer Banks with These Tours and Experiences
Warmer weather will be here before you know it, so it's time to start planning your next getaway to the Outer Banks! These exciting tours offer a unique way to experience the Outer Banks, showcasing its beauty and diversity. Witness wild horses in their natural habitat, try out hang-gliding, or enjoy the natural beauty of Alligator River. The adventure never stops!
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. Join Tripfox 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.
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Score a Discount on Charlotte Hornets Tickets
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. Learn more about the Charlotte Hornets ticket discount.
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!
