This holiday season, return to traditions and twinkling lights in Belmont, N.C. From small-town celebrations to family-friendly festivities that shimmer and shine, our region shares ample charm and memory-making through the New Year.
“The holidays provide a perfect opportunity for Belmont to proudly display its commitment to community, history and tradition,” said Ted Hall, chairman of Belmont Tourism Development Authority. “Belmont’s small town charm glistens as brightly as the colorful bulbs. We cannot wait to welcome families to our city for another year of Christmas cheer.”
Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden ushers in its annual Holidays at the Garden, Nov. 26 to Jan. 2. Experience magic and whimsy among festive blooms at this family-friendly event. The exhibition returns with traditions and topiary displays, sparkling cherry trees and rolling lights across the Piedmont Prairie. Festivities also include wintertime tunes, food truck fare, holiday beverages and seasonal shopping. Significant COVID-19 precautions are in place at the Garden throughout the holidays, such as staggered entry times to reduce crowding. Advance tickets are required and available at dsbg.org.
Continue celebrating the holidays in nearby Christmas Town U.S.A. as McAdenville, N.C., transforms for a 66th year. Nostalgia and traditions ring loudly in Christmas Town, which presents more than 150 decorated homes alongside sparkling streetscapes from Dec. 1-26, 5:30-10 p.m. each night. In addition to memorable
strolls and drives throughout town, the ChristmasTown 5k, Tree Lighting Ceremony and Yule Log Parade return to the McAdenville merriment this year.
In Belmont, the holidays unfold brightly beginning in November. Shop Small Saturday on Nov. 27 offers a chance to experience the city’s brick-lined sidewalks and quaint boutiques while finding those perfect presents. On Nov. 29, the City of Belmont Tree Lighting Ceremony kicks off the season’s glow as well as the fourth annual Festival of Trees, a jolly display of Christmas trees across historic downtown that runs until Jan. 3. The 72nd Annual Belmont Christmas Parade – Nov. 30, 3:30 p.m. – ushers in festive floats, marching bands, tradition, joy and Santa Claus! And on Dec. 4, in the heart of downtown, Belmont Christmas Village evokes the holiday spirit with s’mores stations, holiday music, horse-drawn carriage rides and more. Also on Dec. 4, nearby Belmont Abbey College presents its annual “Christmas at the Abbey” with two show times featuring secular and sacred music, poignant readings and lighthearted comedy.
“Everyone can use a bit of holiday cheer this year,” added Hall. “Belmont is ready to deck the halls with it.”