CHARLOTTE, N.C. (WBTV) - The holidays have arrived: Southern Christmas Show, Charlotte Marathon and tree lightings around the community.
9 things to do in Charlotte this weekend is part of our new newsletter The Go Guide! Every week, get the scoop on the latest events and happenings around Charlotte right in your inbox. To subscribe, make sure to check “The Go Guide” in our newsletter page.
Here’s a list of things to do the weekend of Nov. 14-16, 2025:
Southern Christmas Show (Park Expo & Conference Center), opening weekend: It’s that time again! Experience the largest Christmas show in the country at the Southern Christmas Show. Returning for its 58th year, the Southern Christmas Show will get you in the festive spirit where you can shop for holiday gifts, décor, art, food and more. Shop from more than 400 vendors, many who are local, and get inspired by the Christmas décor found all around the hall. Admission is $20 for adults and $12 for children 6 to 12, more at the door.
Charlotte Marathon (S Tryon St.), Saturday 7:20 a.m.: Get those laces tied for one of the Queen City’s largest races. The Novant Health Charlotte Marathon is back for its 21st year for runners of all experiences. Whether it’s the Chick-Fil-A 5K, the half marathon or the full marathon, join thousands of fellow sprinters on a race that takes you all around Charlotte. Full marathons may qualify for the Boston marathon upon completing time requirements. Funds raised benefit Novant Health Hemby Children’s Hospital. Half marathon registration is $140 and the Chick-Fil-A 5K is $50.
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The Geekery Market (Cabarrus Arena), Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.: No matter your fandom, you are welcome to the Geekery Market. This isn’t your typical comic convention, with dozens of artists selling unique and one-of-a-kind “geeky” stuff. You’ll also find LEGOs, Nerf sword demos, caricatures, board games and plenty of geeky music. Admission is free but a donation to Second Harvest Food Bank is requested.
Romanian-American Festival (Stumptown Park, Matthews), Saturday 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.: The first ever Romanian-Americal Cultural Festival is happening this weekend at Stumptown Park in Matthews. Experience the cultures and traditions of Romanian-Americans with live music and dance performances, and authentic street food and desserts. Shop like a local and head to the market where you’ll find over 60 artisan and lifestyle vendors. Admission is free.
LangTree Lake Norman Tree Lighting Celebration (401 Langtree Road, Moorseville), Saturday 5 p.m.: The holidays are here in Lake Norman with a special tree lighting ceremony. Get ready to light the 40-foot tree with a festive evening full of fun for the whole family. Meet Santa and drop off your list at the North Pole Post Office. Plus, you’ll find face painting, craft vendors, holiday food and drinks, plus a live DJ and a performance from the LangTree Charter Academy Band. Admission is free.
Celebration of Lights & Tree Lighting Ceremony (Village Park, Kannapolis), Saturday 6 p.m.: It’s Christmas in Kannapolis this weekend with the kickoff to the Celebration of Lights with a special tree lighting ceremony. Once the switch is flipped, fireworks will light up the sky. Then, head to the Celebration of Lights where thousands of twinkling lights create holiday cheer. Bring your wish list to Santa and take a picture withhim, make holiday crafts or enjoy a delicious smore around the fire pit. Plus, get some holiday shopping in from local vendors and artisans. Admission is free.
NUTCRACKER! Magical Christmas Ballet (Ovens Auditorium), Saturday 8 p.m.: The Christmas tradition is now embarking on its 33rd tour. The NUTCRACKER! Magical Christmas Ballet is back to bring the wonder of the timeless classic live on stage. With professional dancers from all around the world including Ukraine, Japan, Italy and more, catch the breathtaking performance set to Broadway-style sets, costumes and music. Joining the cast of NUTCRACKER! Magical Christmas Ballet will be children from Charlotte’s very own Legacy Dance Company. Tickets start at $41.50.
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Rural Hill Sheepdog Trials & Dog Festival (4431 Neck Road, Huntersville), Saturday & Sunday: If you’ve ever wanted to watch sheepdogs in action, this is the festival for you. Get ready to watch as expert herding dogs do their thing in a series of challenges. You’ll also get to see other dogs perform exciting tricks and show off their training, as well as a chance to learn from the experts on how to train them. Bring your dogs for a fun afternoon of socializing with other dogs. Single day adult tickets start at $18.31 and kids 5-13 start at $9.91.
“The Polar Express” Train Ride (NC Transportation Museum), select weekends: All aboard The Polar Express! Step into the magical train as the animated classic comes to life. On your way to the North Pole, sip on hot chocolate and cookies while you hear a reading of the story and hear the music from the movie. Once at the North Pole, you’ll find Santa give the first gift of Christmas. Passengers are encouraged to wear pajamas. Tickets start at $43.25
Have an event you want to submit? I’m always looking for things to do around Charlotte. Send me your event to Carmichael.Cruz@WBTV.com.
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