Time to make a list and check it twice! Aahhh Christmas in the Queen City. Charlotte has everything you need at Christmas from a night out to places to shop, fun traditions and tasty holiday drinks!
YOU NEED A NIGHT OUT
Cause’, well, family. They come and they stay and sometimes you need to get out of the house. I suggest taking in a Christmas show to give you a break from the frenzy of the Christmas season. Grab dinner out so no one has to do dishes and enjoy a few hours of distraction.
If you love the classic Charles Dickens’ ‘A Christmas Carol’ then head to Theatre Charlotte. They’ve been doing a version of the show for 13 years. It runs Dec. 6-15.
An alternative option: Take a semi-raunchy visit to ‘The Great American Trailer Park Christmas Musical’. Set in Armadillo Texas, this show by Actor’s Theatre of Charlotte includes songs such as “Christmas in My Mobile Home”. Dec. 3-22 at Hadley Theatre.
YOU NEED TO SHOP
Here’s where I repeat my favorite mantra. Shop Local! The Girl Tribe pop up makes it easy for you by bringing together more than 200 women-owned businesses. Stock up on gifts, or treat yourself at the Charlotte Convention Center. Tickets are just $5 in advance. $10 at the door. December 14-15.
Bonus shopping tip. If you don’t want to shop among a crowd here are 13 holiday gift ideas made by women entrepreneurs in Charlotte.
YOU NEED A DRINK
I love the vibe of a local neighborhood pub any time of year. But if you want something a little more special for the holidays check out famed bartender Bob Peters at the Punch Room at the Ritz Carlton. You can bet he’ll have a few holiday drinks you won’t find anywhere else. If you prefer, make a special cocktail at home with friends then walk around your neighborhood and look at the Christmas lights.
YOU NEED A TRADITION
Pick one. There are a million in Charlotte from tree lightings to special performances. Holidays at the Hall has a little something for everyone. The NASCAR Hall of Fame Plaza is turned into a winter wonderland this time of year complete with elves and reindeer. A few dates to note: Magical Morning(sensory-friendly), December 15, and Breakfast with Santa December 21 and 22.
YOU NEED SOMETHING FREE
I know the Holidays are a killer on the wallet. Fortunately for you, you live in Charlotte and there are plenty of ways to enjoy the holiday without spending a dime. One of the classics is the Leonard Bearstein Symphony Orchestra inside Founders Hall Uptown. The 45-minute performances are a great way to kill some time with the littles. Plus, Uptown has great energy this time of year.
YOU NEED A TREE
North Carolina ranks second in the United States for a number of Christmas trees harvested each year. If you are looking for a worthwhile day Christmas day trip to out tradition your neighbor, head to the Carolina mountains for a cut your own experience. If you want to stay local you’ll see your ‘hoods corner tree tent. Here are a few worth checking out.
https://www.cltchristmasvillage.com/
http://www.snowflakevillage.org/
