Christmas Events and Happenings Near Charlotte, North Carolina: Celebrate the Holidays 2010

There are plenty of Christmas and Holiday events near Charlotte, North Carolina. Make plans to visit and enjoy the season now.

The Fifth Annual Christmasville in Rock Hill, South Carolina is just around the corner, starting December 2 on Main Street in downtown Rock Hill. For three days, visitors are invited into the world of Vernon Grant, creator of the "Snap, Crackle and Pop" characters for Kellogg's Rice Krispies. In addition to the Vernon Grant Art Exhibit, festival goers can vote for their favorite Gingerbread House, attend the Lighting of the Village Opening Ceremonies and visit the Holiday Market Place. Just 30 miles from Charlotte. Contact and Directions

Waxhaw, North Carolina, about 19 miles from Charlotte, North Carolina, really knows how to celebrate with its 12 Days of Christmas in Waxhaw. From November 26 through December 19, the town has festive celebrations scheduled every Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

The Holiday Festival of Lights kicks off the celebrations at 5:30 p.m. November 26th when Waxhaw is lit up with 50,000 lights, has carriage rides, caroling, prizes and Santa Claus. The Christmas Parade is December 12 at 3 p.m. and ends with a Snack with Santa and the Amazing Grace Bake Sale. There are plenty of other activities to choose from, so make plans now to attend. Contact info.

The city of Belmont, North Carolina, just a few minutes from Charlotte on Interstate 85 South, has several Christmas events lined up this year. The city lights its official city Christmas Tree on December 5th at 5:30 p.m. at City Hall, and the 61st Annual Belmont Christmas Parade is Tuesday, December 7 at 4 p.m. Additionally, the Belmont Merchants Association will hold its Belmont Christmas Village December 18th on Main Street, with the festivities beginning at 6:30 p.m.

Belmont Abbey College will host "Christmas at the Abbey" on Saturday, December 4th from 8 to 10 p.m. at the Haid Theatre. This gathering will include music and festive readings to officially kick off the holiday season. Purchase tickets online or contact the box office.

Also in Belmont, Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden continues it holiday tradition with Holiday Lights at the Garden. The fun begins November 26 and ends December 31st (Closed on Christmas Day). Come see 600,000 lights, carriage rides, trains, carols and visits from Santa Claus. Tickets: $12 for adults, $11 for seniors and $6 for children ages 4 to 12. Contact Info.

Just down the road from Belmont is McAdenville, North Carolina. Also known as Christmas Town USA, the city will throw the light switch on December 1st and will keep it shining through December 26th. Since 1956, this small textile town has celebrated Christmas by draping itself in colorful lights and welcoming all to see.

Drive through and view the lights from the warmth and comfort of your car, or get out and walk for a closer look. It's a popular attraction, so prepare for long lines. Information and Directions. Free to all.

Get in the Christmas spirit by visiting some of these attractions in the Charlotte, North Carolina area.