Holiday Things to Do During December in Uptown
December in Uptown Charlotte is packed with exciting activities, making it an ideal destination for entertaining family and friends. Whether you're hosting out-of-town relatives or planning family outings, there’s something for everyone. From sports events and immersive museums to holiday markets and dazzling light displays, here’s your ultimate guide to enjoying the Queen City in December:
Events:
Nov. 8 - Dec. 31
Nov. 26
Nov. 22 - Dec. 22
The Best Christmas Pageant Ever: The Musical at Children's Theatre of Charlotte
Nov. 27 – Jan. 3
Light the Knights Festival, which has taken place at Truist Field for the last two years, along with Charlotte Christmas Village, is significantly expanding its offerings for the 2024 holiday season. It will feature a regulation-size ice rink on the field and a 6-lane snow tubing slope in the outfield.
Nov. 29 - December 28
Holiday Laughs & Lights Tour (rated R)
Dec. 1
A Celtic Christmas by A Taste of Ireland at the Knight Theater
Dec. 4-7
Uptown Holiday Market on Levine Avenue of the Arts
Dec. 4
Christmas Market in the Plaza at 301 S. College Street
Dec. 5-7
Fourth Ward Holiday Home Tour and Sip and Stroll
Dec. 5
Cody Fry Christmas: A Holiday Pops Special at the Knight Theater
Dec. 6 - 7
Dec. 6 – DEC 22.
CLT Ballet presents Nutcracker. Full of costumes that sparkle, fairies that twirl in the Land of Sweets, and the party that you can bring the whole family to at Belk Theater.
Dec. 7
Charlotte Symphony: Holiday Pops at the Knight Theater
Dec. 12 - 22
Doggie On My Doorstep: A Holiday Tail at Children's Theatre of Charlotte
Dec. 13 - 14
Charlotte Symphony: Handel's Messiah at the Knight Theater
Dec. 14 - 15
Breakfast with Santa at The Asbury
Dec. 22
Vienna Light Orchestra Christmas Tour 2024 at First UMC, 501 N Tryon St
Dec. 24
Christmas Eve Dinner at The Asbury
Dec. 25
Christmas Day Dinner at The Asbury
Places:
1. Museum of Illusions
- Location: 601 S. Tryon St.
- If you're looking to kick off the month with a bit of mind-bending fun, head to the Museum of Illusions. With optical illusions, interactive exhibits, and quirky photo ops, the whole family will be both entertained and intrigued.
2. Bechtler Museum of Modern Art
- Location: 420 S. Tryon St.
- For a dose of culture, take the family to the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art. This accessible museum offers works from modern art icons like Picasso, sure to inspire curiosity and conversation, especially for art-loving family members.
3. Mint Museum Uptown
- Location: 500 S. Tryon St.
- The Mint Museum offers something for everyone, from art enthusiasts to curious kids. Their family-friendly ArtBreak tours encourage interactive exploration, and seasonal exhibits add a festive touch to your visit.
4. Harvey B. Gantt Center for African-American Arts + Culture
- Location: 551 S. Tryon St.
- This center is a wonderful way to explore African-American history and culture. With exhibits that bring stories to life, it’s both inspiring and informative, perfect for multi-generational family visits.
5. Levine Museum of the New South
- Location: 401 S. Tryon St.
- Visiting family can get a true taste of Charlotte's history here. This museum uses hands-on displays to teach about the South’s past, making it ideal for introducing kids to local history in a fun way.
6. Discovery Place Science
- Location: 301 N. Tryon St.
- Discovery Place is a favorite for kids and adults alike. From live demonstrations to immersive exhibits and even a rainforest habitat, this science museum is filled with interactive learning opportunities.
7. ImaginOn: The Joe & Joan Martin Center
- Location: 300 E. 7th St.
- Combine storytime, theater, and interactive games at ImaginOn. The unique space is perfect for young family members, with shows from the Children’s Theatre of Charlotte and a library designed to captivate children.
8. Children’s Theatre of Charlotte
- Location: Inside ImaginOn
- Known for its top-notch productions, the Children’s Theatre of Charlotte offers family-friendly performances that captivate audiences of all ages. It’s a perfect way to experience the magic of live theater together.
9. The Market at 7th Street
- Location: 224 E. 7th St.
- Grab a bite at this bustling food hall, which has something for every taste bud, from southern BBQ to vegan dishes. It’s also a great spot to pick up local souvenirs.
10. Famous Toastery Uptown
- Location: 330 S. Tryon St.
- Start a day of exploring with a delicious brunch at Famous Toastery. Their diverse menu offers everything from classic eggs and bacon to inventive breakfast dishes, ideal for fueling up before hitting the city.
11. Monarch Market
- Location: Near 7th St.
- Monarch Market is a cozy holiday market filled with handmade gifts and seasonal decorations from local artisans. Perfect for picking up unique holiday gifts and exploring with family.
12. Luminous Lane (Holiday Pop-up)
- Location: Various spots along Tryon St.
- Take a stroll down Luminous Lane, where holiday lights and art installations add a magical ambiance to Uptown Charlotte. It's a free, family-friendly activity that’s especially beautiful at night.
13. NASCAR Hall of Fame
- Location: 400 E. M.L.K. Jr Blvd.
- Any motorsports fans in the family? The NASCAR Hall of Fame features racing simulators, interactive exhibits, and behind-the-scenes insights into Charlotte’s motorsports heritage.
14. Charlotte Hornets Games
- Location: Spectrum Center
- Cheer on the Hornets with the whole family! With home games on November 6, 8, 16, 21, 25, 27, 29, and 30, it’s easy to find a game that fits your schedule
15. Light the Knights Festival (November 27 - January 3)
- Location: Truist Field
- Truist Field transforms into a holiday wonderland for the Light the Knights Festival, with festive lights, activities, and treats for all ages. It’s a magical experience that brings the holiday season to life.
16. Blume Studios and "The Infinite"
- Location: 904 Post St, Charlotte, NC 28208
- Wrap up your adventures with a visit to Blume Studios for “The Infinite,” an immersive art experience with incredible visual installations that captivate both kids and adults.
With so much to do in Uptown Charlotte, December offers endless ways to create unforgettable memories with family and friends. Whether you’re looking for interactive museums, holiday markets, or thrilling sports games, this guide will help you show off the best of Charlotte all month long!