Located just 40 miles northwest of Charlotte, Lincolnton (pop. 11,000) is the perfect destination for a fun winter day trip or weekend getaway. Brimming with charming attractions and small-town hospitality, Lincolnton dons its best holiday finery in November and December.
“Lincolnton is a beautiful place to visit year-round, but we’ve really worked hard to build our reputation as a Christmas destination,” said Laura Morris, the city’s director of community relations.
Amid a full schedule of seasonal events, here are a few highlights worth planning a visit around.
Candy Land Christmas Nights | Nov. 30 to Dec. 23
New this year, a magical $100,000 display lights up First Federal Park with a huge walk-through ornament installation, Christmas trees and a 52-foot train.
“This Downtown Pocket Park will be completely transformed into a festive holiday plaza with a small stage area for live entertainment,” Morris said. “We’re very excited about the train, and there will be a giant lighted arch across Main Street at the stairs leading down to the rail trail and park.”
Visitors can also chat with St. Nick at the Santa House between 6 and 9 p.m., and everyone's favorite, the carriage and wagon rides also run between 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. departing from the 100 block of East Main.
Handmade for the Holidays | Nov. 17 and 18
Local artisans, vendors and makers strut their stuff at the Citizens Center during this annual craft fair sponsored by Lincoln Cultural Center. It’s a perfect opportunity to find unique gift items for family and friends on your holiday shopping list.
65th Annual Christmas Parade | Nov. 26, 4 to 7 p.m.
Find a spot along the 2-mile route to take in the sights and sounds of Lincolnton’s popular Christmas parade featuring more than 100 entries that include golf carts, walking teams, Scout troops and elaborate professional floats. Live entertainment starts at 5 p.m., then head over to Court Square for the town’s traditional tree lighting at 6 p.m.
Frozen Junior | Nov. 30 to Dec. 3
Princesses Elsa and Anna grace the Lincoln Cultural Center stage for Friday and Saturday evening performances, as well as Saturday and Sunday matinees, presented by the Lincoln Theatre Guild.
Breakfast with Santa | Dec. 2, 8:30 to 11 a.m.
What little one wouldn’t love to share a meal with jolly St. Nick himself at Lincoln Cultural Center? Photo ops and treats are all part of the package; reservations are required.
Nutcracker Children's Ballet | Dec. 8 to 10
The Sugar Plum Fairy and her Toy Soldiers pay a visit to the Citizens Center for Friday and Saturday evening shows and a Sunday matinee. Produced by the Lincoln Cultural Center, the production involves more than 150 youth participants from regional dance schools.
Apple Drop New Year′s Eve Street Party | Dec. 31, 5 to 8 p.m.
Bring the whole family and count down to 2024 on the lawn of South Court Square. This beloved annual party rings in the new year with a Blessing of the City, black powder gun-firing demonstrations by the Cherryville Traditional Shooters and plenty of kid-friendly activities. The event also collects food and supplies and raises funds for local ministries.
“We have a lot of new vacation accommodations for visitors who want to stay overnight in our downtown area,” Morris said. “Several are located right on Main Street in second-floor residential spaces.”
For more information, visit LincolntonNC.org/Christmas.
