Welcome to December in Rowan County, North Carolina—a season brimming with holiday cheer, community traditions, and festive fun. From magical Christmas celebrations to events steeped in history and charm, this guide will showcase the highlights of the month, ensuring your time in Rowan County is filled with joy, culture, and the true spirit of the holidays.
Patterson Farm's Winter Barn & Playground
Now- December 21, 2024
This winter, Patterson Farm is warming up for a chilly season without cooling down the fun. The barn and Paw Paw Carl's playground are both waiting for you to visit and play. Say hello to cows, chickens, goats and more, then hop on over to the playground to enjoy some original, farm fun!
Celebration of Lights & the Winterland Express
Now - December 30, 2024
Come to Village Park and enjoy all the beautiful lights and displays in celebration of the holidays. Bring your wish list for your visit with Santa and take a photo with him at no charge. Other activities include making a holiday craft, enjoying smore’s around the fire pit and much more. Local craft and artisans be on hand on the weekends, so come prepared to do your Christmas shopping!
Winterfest at the Cherry Treesort
December 1, 2024
Come join the Cherry Treesort for their 6th Annual Winterfest in China Grove, N.C.. They will open all 10 of the Treehouses and Hobbit Houses for tours so you can come and check it all out. Santa will be at the farm from 3-5 P.M. taking pictures with the kids.
Holly Jolly Farm Days at Patterson Farm
December 1, 7 & 8, 2024
Nothing says "happy holidays" more than festive Saturdays on the farm. Come get your kicks of the holiday season with tons of spectacular fun at Patterson's Holly Jolly Farm Days. Visit the farm this December, and start off this holiday season the fun, farm way.
Winterfest - A German Christmas Marketplace
December 6, 7 & 8, 2024
Soak up the sights and sounds of the holidays as you meander through the market of sparkling lights, trees and merry music in Spencer, N.C.. Wooden huts and market tents will be filled with holiday gifts, crafts and festive food. Watch with wonder at the lighting of the town tree or join in the skating at Spencer on Ice!
Historic Gold Hill Christmas in the Village
December 6-8, 14 & 21, 2024
Make Historic Gold Hill your holiday destination by visiting Santa and the Historic Gold Hill merchants. In the Village, you can step back in time and enjoy the season in a lovely, relaxed, quaint setting surrounded by unique specialty shops and Flynn's Village Grill.
Photos & Firetrucks with Santa & the Grinch
December 7, 2024
Each holiday season, Downtown Salisbury brings fun for everyone by inviting the Grinch and Santa Claus to town! Join them at Bell Tower Green Park for photos with Santa and the Grinch in the morning, and take a ride with them in the afternoon. Forget the sleigh, Antique Fire Trucks are the only way to travel during this event! Enjoy free rides on antique fire trucks with Santa and the Grinch, along with music, crafts, entertainment, and hot cocoa.
Christmas in the Grove
December 14, 2024
Celebrate the Christmas season with the annual Christmas in the Grove tradition in Downtown China Grove. See Santa Claus ride in on a firetruck, visit with Mr. and Mrs. Claus and enjoy tons of exciting holiday activities when you visit China Grove this holiday season!
Scrooge's Christmas Trolley Tour
December 18 - 23, 2024
This annual holiday favorite returns to Lee Street theatre the winter of 2024! Hop on the the Trolley and be whisked back in time as we perform the Dicken's classic, all while touring the city!
Winter Holiday Train Rides at the N.C. Transportation Museum
December 26 - 31, 2024
Join the museum for special train rides during the winter break between Christmas and the New Year! It is another seasonal tradition families love to do together, especially when children are on break from school.
New Year's Eve at the Bell Tower Green
December 31, 2024
Say goodbye to 2024 and ring in 2025 with your community! Bell Tower Green will be rocking with live music, refreshments, and community fellowship as we celebrate the start of a brand new year.
As December unfolds in Rowan County, the warmth of the season is reflected in every festive event and cherished tradition. Whether you're exploring holiday markets, enjoying dazzling light displays, or celebrating the spirit of the season with family and friends, there's something here for everyone to enjoy. We hope this guide inspires you to make the most of the holidays in Rowan County, creating memories that will last a lifetime. From our community to yours, we wish you a joyous holiday season and a happy New Year!
Discover all the events waiting for you when you #VisitRowanCountyNC on our event calendar.