The Latest From Carolina Traveler
Winter is on the horizon, in spite of the balmy 74 degree temperatures today in which we write to you. Nonetheless, the holidays are approaching, and we've done all the Christmas tree farm, holiday lights displays, and holiday activities in NC research so you don't have to. We're in the generous Christmas spirit like that!
Many of you have shared your love for family-friendly holiday activities in NC that take place in the Queen City, so we're devoting an entire section of the newsletter to things to do in Charlotte during the holiday season. **Don't worry, South Carolina, we're heading to Aiken for some “holiday horsin' around”…
Zip N Slip right back to your childhood with a ride down the Mars Hill slopes.
Can You Believe That There Are 10 Snow Tubing Parks In NC?! Try New Holiday Activities In NC
What we have here is proof that some things aren't too good to be true. More snow tubing parks have cropped up along the western NC mountain region. Requiring significantly less dexterity and risk than skiing or snow boarding, snow tubing offers a safer and more accessible way to encounter winter snow in an area of the nation typically averse to anything sturdier than sleet.
- Snow Tubing Near Me: Things To Know Before You Go
- Discover NC's 10 Snow Tubing Parks
- Is There Snow Tubing in SC?
- Review: Zip N Slip Snow Tubing Park in Mars Hill, NC
- Review: Jonas Ridge Snow Tubing
- Review: Hawksnest Snow Tubing and Zipline
Take a romantic stroll under illuminated walkways at the Carolina Holiday Light Spectacular.
Here's Your Romantic Charlotte Holiday Weekend In 5 Minutes
Charlotte is the Queen City, so you know it sets the standard for romantic holiday activities in NC. The best restaurants in Charlotte dazzle with tasting menus and other intriguing culinary experiences, while annual winter events like Holidays at the [Daniel Stowe Botanical] Garden, Charlotte Christmas Village, and Winter Wonderland South Park entertain locals and visitors alike.
Looking to make a lasting impression? Book a staycation or weekend away at one of the best hotels in Charlotte. Talk about luxurious holiday activities in NC– exceptional options with spas and other amenities exist throughout various Charlotte neighborhoods.
If it's not the case that you were able to book a weekend away from the kids, or you have no kids to worry about, or you have the magical ability to fuel romance with kids on vacation, check out our tried and true Carolina Traveler recommendations for things to do with kids in Charlotte. One of our favorite places to visit any time of year is Freedom Park — while it's a destination in and of itself, it's also a great “in-between” space, if you know what we mean. A place where you can enjoy a packed lunch and take in North Carolina's beautiful winter gifts with loved ones.
Check out these holiday lights at Carowinds!
We Know, You Need More To Satiate Your Holiday Lights Displays Fix!
What is it about driving through an obscenely lit up neighborhood or Christmas Village-type situation that just lights up the reward center in our brains? Paired with the smell of s'mores over an open fire, hot cocoa topped with mini marshmallows, and other Christmas goodies, lights displays offer a truly immersive experience for the senses. By now, we know you can't wait to dive into our recommendations for the best holiday light displays. It's one of our favorite holiday activities in NC!
Haha — South Carolina, you didn't think we'd leave you out, did you? Check out our additional suggestions for the top holiday lights displays in South Carolina.
Who's a good boy? A cuteness factor of 10, but we're not sure who had to clean the sap off the pups at Dogs wearing Christmas wreaths at Mehaffey Tree Farm in Waynesville NC.
Have A Woofin' Great Time At An NC Christmas Farm (Or Local Vendor!)
Look at these regal pups. They are ready to celebrate good tidings with some locally grown NC Christmas trees and wreaths. If you live in the western NC mountains, you're fortunate to be within an hour from a Christmas tree farm. Otherwise, the rest of us who occupy the Piedmont and coastal regions can find the same trees at local purveyors of NC Fraser firs. Going with family or friends to pick up an NC Christmas tree is one of many essential holiday activities in NC.
The size of the horses in the Hoofbeats & Christmas Carols Parade in Aiken, SC is mind-boggling!
A Stomping New Christmas Tradition In Aiken, SC
Carolina Travelers, we know you love a good parade. The months of November and December are peak parade season in the Carolinas, and we have another one to put on your radar: the annual Hoofbeats & Christmas Carols parade in Aiken, SC. This year, the event takes place December 16. Learn more.
Thirteen years in the making, the Hoofbeats & Christmas Carols Parade has evolved from a modest assembly of equines, canines, and festive enthusiasts to a magnificent spectacle. Now, nearly 300 horses and carriages, along with almost 100 adorned dogs, grace the event. Each participant, both human and hoofed, dons enchanting costumes, harmonizing Christmas Carols as they elegantly traverse the heart of Aiken, creating an equestrian celebration that embodies the spirit of the season.
Looking for more information on holiday things in to do in North Carolina and South Carolina? From a guide on what roller coasters to ride at Carowinds to local tips on how to see the wild horses on North Carolina's Outer Banks, you can read quintessentially Carolina content on a weekly basis. Sign up to join our Carolina Traveler Facebook group and become a subscriber to the Carolina Traveler magazine!
