Ushering in the Holidays the North Carolina Way

Thanksgiving is one of those special holidays that give everyone a chance to reconnect with family, both near and far. It’s a chance to stuff yourself with absurd amounts of food and spend quality time with those you love most. While a good majority of people celebrate in the comfort of their own homes, others choose to go out, travel, and take in the holidays from a new city. For those of you visiting Great Wolf Lodge-Concord, North Carolina indoor water park location, here are a few can’t miss events that really help us North Carolinians kick off the holiday season!

Speedway Christmas (Nov 19-Dec 31) This light show is considered to be one of the largest and most magical light shows in the United States. Located in Concord, this light spectacle features more than 3 million lights in 800 displays along 3.1 miles and a 1.5 mile drive along the super speedway. In addition to this, the Christmas Village, located on the infield, is filled with live actors, a petting zoo, and Santa’s Workshop. During the length of the Speedway Christmas event, you and your family can watch holiday movies in style on the largest HDTV, Fridays and Saturdays.

Polar Express (Nov 11 –Jan 1) Taking place in the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad, this is a signature premiere event for those in North Carolina, locals and visitors alike. Adapted after the book and further propelled by the movie, Polar Express enthralls children and children at heart. This interactive, read along ride features clips from the book, and scenes from the movie while songs from the movie soundtrack play softly in the background. The train ride takes you to the recreated North Pole, where Santa, his elves, and all of their presents await. It’s truly a magical experience that helps usher in the holiday season.

Piedmont Winterfest (Nov. 18- Jan 29) Watch as Greensboro is transformed into a winter wonderland. A crowd favorite, the Piedmont Winterfest in downtown Greensboro’s LeBauer Park, comes alive in a winter lover’s dream of ice slides, snow play boxes, and an ice rink to show off those figure eights. On Friday and Saturday nights, join in the fun with synchronized ice skating.

The holidays are meant to be spent with the family and creating memories that last a lifetime. North Carolina truly embodies the holiday spirit. If you are in the area, be sure to check out one of these highly rated events and usher in the holiday season with your family.