40 Things to Do this Winter in Charlotte
Don’t hibernate until spring. These winter events and activities will keep you busy all season.
by Arielle Patterson Nov 17, 2025
Camp North End
This article is brought to you by Camp North End.
Charlotte’s mild weather and array of activities make the city an ideal destination for a winter getaway. Discover the whimsy of winter in the Queen City at these memorable events and seasonal activities.
Season-Long Activities
Explore Camp North End
Join Camp North End for endless cozy vibes, including ice skating now through Jan. 4, 2026 and Mistletoe Market the first three Saturdays in December. Cozy up by the heaters with a hot beverage in hand to take a break from exploring Camp North End’s 76-acre site. There will also be plenty of opportunities to eat, drink, shop and explore with the entire family throughout the season.
Go Ice Skating
Glide across the ice at venues in Charlotte. Truist Field transforms into an NHL-sized rink during the Light the Knights Festival. Head to the seasonal ice skating rink near Ford Factory at Camp North End. Take to the ice at the Whitewater Center. Grab a cup of hot cocoa and try a few spins at The Bowl at Ballantyne.
Watch the Charlotte Checkers Battle on the Ice
The Charlotte Checkers season is in full swing in winter, as the minor-league team takes on competitors in the American Hockey League. Browse the Checkers’ schedule to find out what home-game promotions are happening, like themed jerseys and discounted ticket nights, at Bojangles Coliseum.
Cheer on the Charlotte Hornets
The Charlotte Hornets take center court at the recently renovated Spectrum Center throughout winter. Mark your calendar for the Holiday Hoopla game on Dec. 23, HBCU Day on Feb. 28, 2026 and more themed nights that feature freebies for fans.
Root for the Carolina Ascent
Carolina Ascent FC continues the fall season at American Legion Memorial Stadium in the winter months. The women’s USL Super League team plays home matches all season long with promo events like Santa’s Holiday Festival on Saturday, Dec. 6 and 20.
Drink and Dine on a Heated Rooftop
Don’t let the cooler temperatures stop you from enjoying Charlotte’s rooftop bars and restaurants. Aura Rooftop's winter experience offers seasonal cocktails and firepit seating, while Merchant & Trade boasts standing heaters and a heated igloo so you can stay warm while sipping cocktails overlooking Uptown.
Toast to the Season with a Winter Beer
Charlotte breweries are trading pumpkin beers for full-body stouts, dark lagers and more. The winter season brings the return of NoDa Brewing’s Hoppy Holidays IPA, Olde Mecklenburg Brewery’s Dunkel dark lager and Birdsong Brewing’s Morning Trail oatmeal stout. Get a Charlotte Brewery Pass to save money as you explore the city’s beer scene.
Browse the Latest Exhibits at The Mint Museum
Beat winter’s chill by staying indoors. “Renaissance, Romanticism, and Rebellion” is on display at Mint Museum Uptown through Feb. 22, 2026, while “Future Now: Virtual Sneakers to Cutting-Edge Kicks” and “Central Impact: Skateboarding’s Art and Influence” are at the Mint Museum Randolph through Jan. 4, 2026.
Attend a Winter Concert
Concert venues in Charlotte are still jamming in the winter months, with national headliners like Fantasia with Anthony Hamilton and Nine Inch Nails making their way to the Queen City. Catch these performances, along with local and regional acts, on stages across the city this season.
Visit the Whitewater Center at Night
The days may be shorter, but winter at the Whitewater Center has plenty to offer after dark. Through mid-February, walk the Whitewater Center’s illuminated trails, with activities for kids at Wildwoods and dogs at Off Leash.
Have an Indoor Snow Day at Discovery Place Science
Discovery Place Science’s newest exhibit, “Snow Days,” brings a winter wonderland indoors. From Nov. 22 through Feb. 1, 2026, this family-friendly winter experience features a sock skating rink, snowflake art, aurora borealis experience and more.
Get a Seat at The Magicians Table
Mind-boggling illusions and craft cocktails come together for a magical evening during The Magicians Table. This tableside, close-up magic experience comes from London to Stage 2 at Blume Studios through Feb. 15, 2026
December Events & Activities
Celebrate the Holiday Season in Charlotte
The Queen City sparkles a little brighter during the holiday season. From dazzling light displays at Carowinds’ WinterFest to parades on land and on the water, check out these 30 ways to celebrate the holidays in Charlotte.
See a Holiday Show
‘Tis the season for merry performances and holiday sing-alongs. Throughout December, family-friendly holiday shows take center stage at venues across Charlotte, such as Charlotte Ballet’s “Nutcracker” from Dec. 5-21 at Belk Theater.
Finish Your Holiday Shopping
Charlotte has the stores that will help you cross everyone off your holiday gift list. Get to know the Charlotte shopping scene, from traditional and outlet malls to shopping centers throughout the city. This Queen City Gift Guide can help you find the perfect local gift or experience for someone in your life.
Sip Festive Cocktails at a Holiday Bar
Keep your spirits merry and bright at one of the holiday-themed bars in Charlotte. The holidays get a tropical twist at the Sippin’ Santa pop-up at The Royal Tot. Backstage Lounge is decked out from floor to ceiling in festive decorations during the Miracle pop-up.
Celebrate the Holidays at the NASCAR Hall of Fame
Rev up your holiday season with Holidays at the Hall. Throughout the month, the NASCAR Hall of Fame celebrates the season with fun for all ages, including hands-on engineering experiments and craft workshops.
Catch Some of Tennis’ Biggest Starts on the Court
The Charlotte invitational brings some of the biggest names in tennis to Spectrum Center. This year’s event, on Thursday, Dec. 4, features matchups between Venus Williams and Madison Keys, along with Frances Tiafoe and Taylor Fritz.
Watch Teams Compete at the ACC Football Championship
The top teams from the ACC face off in the ACC Football Championship at Bank of America Stadium. Kickoff is at 8 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 6, but weekend events include Fan Fest that features tailgate games, photo opportunities with mascots and giveaways.
Hear a Winter Symphony
For more holiday entertainment, Sarah Brightman returns with her new Christmas concert, “A Winter Symphony,” on Wednesday, Dec. 10 at Ovens Auditorium. Brightman’s dazzling vocals are accompanied by an orchestra and choir during this enchanting show.
Catch the Last Panthers Home Games
The Carolina Panthers close out the 2025 NFL season with two home games at Bank of America Stadium. Root for the team to “Keep Pounding” as the Panthers take on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Dec. 21 and the Seattle Seahawks on Sunday, Dec. 28.
Ring in the New Year in Charlotte
Say goodbye to 2025 and watch the lighting of the Queen City crown at CLT NYE in Uptown. Last year’s event featured access to the Light the Knights Festival and fireworks at Truist Field. Let the kids have some New Year’s Eve fun at noon at ImaginOn.
Find more ways to heat up your winter calendar.
January Events & Activities
Revamp Your Wardrobe at a Local Boutique
Start 2026 off with a refreshed wardrobe. Browse the racks at a thrift store or trendy boutique for new pieces that fit your style. Find apparel, jewelry, sneakers and more at local shops and boutiques in Charlotte.
Don’t Miss the Mayo Dump at the Duke’s Mayo Bowl
The Duke’s Mayo Bowl is the only bowl game that dumps mayonnaise on the winning team. Watch college football contenders from the SEC and ACC battle it out on the gridiron on Friday, Jan. 2, 2026 at Bank of America Stadium.
Hear a New Spin on the Story of Cinderella
Children’s Theatre of Charlotte kicks off 2026 with “Topsy-Turvy Cinderella.” The classic tale of Cinderella is turned upside down in this humorous, family-friendly show. Performances run Jan. 10-25, 2026 at Wells Fargo Playhouse.
Experience a Puccini Double Feature
Opera Carolina presents a double feature of two of Puccini’s beloved works, Jan. 16-18, 2026 at Belk Theater. “Suor Angelica” is a drama set to Puccini’s most beautiful music, while “Gianni Schicchi” offers a comedic take on family rivalry and greed.
Watch the Story of a Beloved Charlotte Baker
“The Change Baker” is a heartfelt documentary short following the life of Manolo Betancur, Saturday, Jan. 17, 2026 at Carolina Theatre. Discover his journey from Colombian immigrant to owner of Manolo’s Bakery and local activist.
Don’t Miss Broadway Favorite Spamalot
The Broadway hit, “Spamalot” is back on tour, making its way to Belk Theater from Jan. 20-25, 2026. This Tony Award-winning musical comedy is based on the 1975 film “Monty Python and the Holy Grail.”
Pay Tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Charlotte honors the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on Saturday, Jan. 17, 2026, as more than 100 community organizations, bands, and step and drill teams march down Tryon Street in the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday Parade.
Dine on a Discount during Queen’s Feast
Don’t miss the winter edition of Queen’s Feast: Charlotte Restaurant Week from Jan. 23 – Feb. 1, 2026, featuring three-course, prix-fixe menus ranging from $30 to $50 per person. This is your chance to enjoy your favorite restaurant at a discounted price or discover something new from Charlotte’s dining scene.
Honor the NASCAR Hall of Fame’s Class of 2026
Watch as a new class of racing legends is inducted into the NASCAR Hall of Fame. Kurt Busch, Harry Gant and Ray Hendrick make up the Hall of Fame’s 16th class. NASCAR Hall of Fame Induction Weekend takes place Jan. 22-24, 2026 and features a variety of events and special programming for racing fans to enjoy.
Hear 2000s Music Performed by an Orchestra
Orchestra Noir returns to Charlotte on Saturday, Jan. 31, 2026 for a brand-new Culture 2000 Tour. This immersive concert experience at Belk Theater blends the spirit of the early 2000s with the power of a live orchestra.
February Events & Activities
Celebrate Black History Month
Celebrate Black History Month in Charlotte by recognizing and honoring the contributions of the Black community. Browse murals that honor the Queen City’s Black history, dine at Black-owned restaurants and attend special events throughout the month.
Stroll Illuminated Art along the Rail Trail
Rail Trail Lights brings interactive light installations from local artists to South End’s Rail Trail walking path. During the month, browse this unique art, snap photos and explore more of the South End neighborhood, accessible via LYNX Blue Line light rail.
Have a Night of Hilarity with Hannah Berner
Comedian Hannah Berner brings her None of My Business tour to Charlotte, Sunday, Feb. 1, 2026. Don’t miss the podcaster’s latest stand-up show, where she performs her trademark humor and storytelling at Ovens Auditorium.
Witness a Superstar Smackdown at Spectrum Center
WWE Friday Night SmackDown returns to Charlotte, Feb. 6, 2026 at Spectrum Center. See your favorite WWE superstars, including undisputed WWE champion Cody Rhodes and WWE women’s champion Jade Cargill, put on a show.
Sample Craft Beer at the Queen City Brewers Festival
Charlotte is well known for the city’s craft beer scene. Sample more than 40 of these breweries at the Queen City Brewers Festival, Saturday, Feb. 7, 2026, at Tipsy Pickle. Wash down your ale with a bite from one of the on-site restaurant and snack vendors.
Enjoy a Romantic Valentine’s Day Dinner
Charlotte has several restaurants with the perfect menu and mood lighting to celebrate this holiday of love. Have a “Lady and the Tramp” moment with pasta at Ever Andalo or head to Customshop for craft cocktails and delectable desserts.
See a Performance by International Ballet Stars
World-renowned ballet artists from several countries share the stage at Knight Theater for a one-night-only performance of “Swan Lake.” This enchanting tale is told through choreography from Marius Petipa and Lev Ivanov, set to Tchaikovsky’s iconic score.
Laugh All Night with the Legends of Laughter
The Legends of Laughter tour, on Sunday, Feb. 21, 2026, brings a star-studded cast of comedians to Ovens Auditorium. Experience hilarious sets from Sommore, Lavell Crawford, Earthquake and Arnez J.
Find even more exciting things to do when you check out our event calendar.
