Winston-Salem Ultimate Holiday Events Guide

Through Jan. 1
Tanglewood Festival of Lights. 6–11 p.m. Held nightly from Nov. 14 to Jan. 1, Tanglewood's Festival of Lights features over 80 scenes and a million twinkling lights set along a 5-mile route at Tanglewood. Tickets are $20 cash / $23 credit card for family vehicles (cars, trucks, vans). Entrance fees are paid at the gate before entering Tanglewood Park. Visitors can also enjoy shopping and more at the Tanglewood Barn, located halfway through the festival route, home to Tanglewood's Gift Village and the S'moresville marshmallow roasting area. 

Through spring 2025
Public Ice Skating at the WS Fairgrounds Arena. With winter comes a full slate of public skate times at the W-S Fairgrounds Arena. Public skate times are offered nearly every day during the holiday season, including Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Admission is $12; skate rentals are $3. Group discounts are available.

Nov. 29-Dec.31 (various dates)
Carolina Thunderbirds Hockey. The Carolina Thunderbirds, Winston-Salem's hometown hockey team, will play seven games from late November through New Years Eve, starting with a Black Friday matchup against the Athens Rock Lobsters. Games are typically held Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays at the Winston-Salem Fairgrounds Arena. Start times vary by game. For times or to purchase tickets, visit the Thunderbirds website.

Nov. 26-Jan. 4
Christmas at Körner’s Folly. Experience "the strangest house in America" in full holiday splendor at Körner’s Folly in Kernersville. All 22 rooms are decked with Victorian-inspired décor. Visitors can enjoy self-guided holiday tours of the home Tuesday–Saturday, from 10 a.m.–4 p.m., and Sunday, 12–4 p.m., with the last entry at 3 pm. Self-guided tours take approximately 1 hour. While you're there, be sure to wander through the Körner’s Folly gift shop to find Victorian-inspired Christmas gifts. Tickets can be purchased online or onsite; $12 adults, $6 kids (6-18), free for kids 5 and under. Also mark your calendar for the home's Christmas By Candlelight evening tours Dec. 7 and 21.

Nov. 29-Dec. 29 (weekends)
Spectacular Holiday Blooms at Ciener Botanical Garden. 5:30–9 p.m. Looking for a unique (and upcycled) take on holiday light displays? Enjoy a stroll through the illuminated recycled tulips at Paul J. Ciener Botanical Garden in Kernersville. Each Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evening during the holiday season, the garden hosts this one-of-a-kind spectacle featuring illuminated trees, festive lights, and more than 10,000 'flowers.' Need a unique gift? Check out the garden's Merry Makers Market (Nov. 29-30).

Nov. 28, Dec. 7, 17
Wake Forest basketball. The Demon Deacons will play a number of exciting games at Joel Coliseum this month, including a Thanksgiving Day matchup against Florida (Nov. 28), followed by games against Boston College (Dec. 7) and James Madison (Dec. 17). For more info or to purchase tickets, go to wakeforestsports.com.

Nov. 29-Dec. 21 (Fridays and Saturdays)
Old Salem Joy of Christmas Evening Tours. These festive tours offer a rare chance to explore several historic buildings in Old Salem by lantern light. Costumed interpreters lead groups of 12 from stop to stop as you experience the sights, sounds, and stories of an 18th-century Salem Christmas. Tours last around an hour and are suitable for all ages. Tickets are $60 adults, $40 students.

Nov. 30, Dec. 7, 14, 21 
Salem Saturdays at Christmas. 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Held each Saturday from Nov 30 to Dec 21, the daylong events offer an elevated mix of special activities and attractions at Old Salem Museums & Gardens. An All-In-One Ticket grants you access to more than a dozen historic buildings, all adorned in period holiday decor. You can chat with period-dressed interpreters, watch festive craft and trade demonstrations, visit with St. Nick, and get hands-on with many Moravian holiday traditions. As a bonus, most Salem Saturday events are held in conjunction with other festive events happening in Old Salem, such as ChristmasFest on Dec. 14. 

Nov. 30-Dec. 21 (weekends)
Holiday Markets by Catbird Events. Catbird Events hosts a variety of pop-up markets throughout the holiday season, where you’ll find a great selection of goods sold by local vendors. Markets will be at Footnote Coffee (Dec. 7), Foothills Tasting Room (Dec. 8, 15), and Winston Junction Market (Nov. 30, Dec. 14, 21). set up at local breweries, the Winston Junction Market, Hanes Mall, and more. While you get to support local vendors and finish your holiday shopping, you can also support the small businesses where these pop-up markets are held. Whether you’re looking for locally-made art or handmade goods, you’ll find something unique at these events.

Dec. 1
“A Carolina Christmas” by the Winston-Salem Symphony. 3 p.m. The Winston-Salem Symphony is ringing in the holidays by performing your favorite Christmas carols and tunes alongside guest soprano Dee Donasco. Whether you are a classical music aficionado or just love live music, this annual show is a delight for all. Reynolds Auditorium, 301 N. Hawthorne Rd. Tickets start at $10. 

Dec. 4-6
Ardmore Moravian Candle Tea. While Home Moravian's Candle Tea gets a lot of attention (and rightfully so), it's not the only Candle Tea in town. Ardmore Moravian Church also hosts a Candle Tea that offers a different experience for tour-goers. You'll hear stories and holiday, see craft demonstrations, and enjoy Moravian cookies. Admission is free. Ardmore Moravian is at 1213 W Academy St., less than a mile from downtown. 

Dec. 4-14
Home Moravian Candle Tea. Held at the Single Brothers House in Old Salem for nearly a century, Home Moravian Church's annual Candle Tea lets you share in several Moravian holiday traditions, including carol singing, candle-making, enjoying coffee and sugar cake, and seeing an elaborate “putz” display and nativity scene. While walk-ins are admitted if possible, making reservations and pre-purchase your tickets is strongly advised. Tickets are $9 adults, $5 kids (3-12). 

Dec. 6
Lewisville Christmas Tree Lighting. 7 p.m. The town of Lewisville and the Lewisville Civic Club team up to host the Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony at Shallowford Square. There will be caroling, hot chocolate, Christmas cookies, kids’ activities, and a visit from Santa. 

Dec. 6-17 (various dates)
Holiday Events at Reynolda. One of Winston-Salem’s most beloved attractions, Reynolda House Museum of American Art features a variety of holiday programming that offers a glimpse into the Reynolds family and their holiday traditions. Many of the holiday offerings are included with the price of admission, such as Caroling Fridays in December (Dec 6, 13). One marquee event that does require a separate ticket is An Enchanted Christmas at Reynolda (Dec. 17), an after-hours event featuring holiday tours, music, a holiday hot chocolate bar, and other festive activities. Visitors can also take a festive stroll through the boutique shops and eateries at Reynolda Village or visit the newly reopened Reynolda Greenhouse and garden shop. 

Dec. 6-7, 13-15 
“Miracle on 34th Street” by Kernersville Little Theatre. Another traditional favorite, this family-friendly story follows Kris Kringle through a competency trial after he upends a Macy’s Department Store in New York City by sending customers elsewhere for their Christmas shopping. James Fitzpatrick Auditorium, 512 W. Mountain St., Kernersville. Show times vary. Tickets are $18 online/$20 at the door.

Dec. 7
YMCA Mistletoe Run. 7:30 a.m.–12 p.m. The 41st annual Mistletoe Run will include a 5k, 1-mile fun run, and half-marathon through Buena Vista. The race begins and ends at the William G. White YMCA, 775 West End Blvd. There will also be have bounce houses, music, cheerleaders, community mascots, donuts at the finish line, and more. Every participant will receive a race shirt.

Dec. 7
Christmas at Bethabara. 1–4:30 p.m. Experience Christmas at the first Moravian settlement in the South as Historic Bethabara Park transforms into a festive wonderland. Explore the 1788 Gemeinhaus, adorned with traditional decorations, and learn about Moravian holiday customs. Try your hand at dipping a candle and other seasonal crafts. Watch historic trades demonstrations, listen to carols from the Moravian Brass Band, and savor seasonal flavors with Moravian treats. Admission is free.

Dec. 7
Sawtooth Spotlight’s Holiday Market. 11 a.m.–4 p.m. This holiday market pulls in artists from around the region to sell handmade items at Sawtooth School, located inside the Milton Rhodes Center for the Arts. You’ll find various items from ceramics, jewelry, and textiles to paintings, photography, and woodworking crafts. There will also be hands-on activities, craft demonstrations, food trucks, and more. The event is free and open to all, with a suggested $5 donation to support scholarships and community outreach. Sawtooth will also be selling locally made holiday gifts throughout the season at their onsite shop and gallery.

Dec. 7
Winston-Salem Holiday Parade and Tree Lighting. 5–8 p.m. Put on by the Winston-Salem Ambassadors, the city’s holiday parade starts at 5 p.m. and will travel down Fourth Street before making a right onto Liberty Street en route to Corpening Plaza. Once there, the Downtown Partnership will hold its annual tree-lighting. Admission to both events is free.

Dec. 8
Historic West End Holiday Homes Tour. Noon-5 p.m. See some of Winston-Salem's most beautiful and historic homes bedecked in holiday décor during this 23rd annual event. This year's tour features eight stops, many of which serve refreshments to tour-goers along the way. Advanced tickets are $20 (day-of tickets are $25) with proceeds going to the West End Neighborhood Association. Stop by Joymongers starting from noon to purchase tickets and pick up maps/brochures detailing the stops. 

Dec. 8
Wake Forest Christmas Lovefeast. 6–8 p.m. For more than 50 years, Wake Forest has held a Lovefeast that brings together students, faculty, alumni, and the community. The school will hold two services this year at Wait Chapel, with the earlier being geared toward families. Admission is free. 

Dec. 8
Kernersville Christmas Parade. 2:30–4:30 p.m. Downtown Kernersville will come alive during the town’s Christmas Parade, which starts at the corner of Pineview Drive and Highway 66 and continue down East Mountain Street to Kernersville Elementary. Admission is free.

Dec. 8
Community Christmas Festival at WinMock. 5–7 p.m. Celebrate the holiday season at the historic WinMock barn in Bermuda Run. There will be vendors selling community crafts and goods, live music, a bounce house, food truck, family photo area, carnival games, and more. All ages are welcome; admission is free.

Dec. 8
Christmas in the Coalpit. 12–4 p.m. Outside of Incendiary Brewing Co., in the historic Coalpit gathering space, there will be a holiday market with nearly three dozen local vendors. In addition to the vendors, there will be live music by William NeSmith and an opportunity for photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Pets welcomed.

Dec. 8, 29
Tour Pour Du Jour at Graylyn. 4–6 p.m. Guests can see Graylyn Estate dressed in its holiday finest during this month’s Tour Pour Du Jour events. Each event includes a guided tour of the estate, appetizers, and samples of select house wines. $25 per person. Graylyn, 1900 Reynolda Road.

Dec. 10
“Handel’s Messiah” by the W-S Symphony. 7:30 p.m. The symphony’s annual holiday concert spotlights one of the most famous oratorios, “Handel’s Messiah”  best known for its rousing “Hallelujah” chorus.  The concert will be in Wait Chapel (2625 Wake Forest Rd.) on the Wake Forest campus. Tickets start at $10.

Dec. 11 
4 Calling Birds Winter Tour. 7 p.m. Internationally acclaimed performers Ian and Eva Benjamin are teaming up with local favorites Erinn Dearth and Dan Beckmann for this uplifting concert on holiday tunes at Hanesbrands Theatre, 251 N. Spruce St. Tickets are $15.

Dec. 12-15, 19-22 (various times)
“White Christmas” by the Theatre Alliance. This wholesome musical is the story of two WWII veterans who follow a singing sister duo to their Christmas show at a lodge in Vermont. It features 17 Irving Berlin songs, including the beloved title track, “White Christmas.” All shows will be at the Winston-Salem Theatre Alliance stage, 650 W. Sixth St. Performance times vary. Tickets are $21.

Dec. 12-15, 19-22 (various times)
A Christmas Carol by the Little Theatre of W-S. The Little Theatre is bringing Charles Dickens’ holiday classic to life during two long weekends in mid-December. Shows will be at Reynolds Place Theatre inside the Milton Rhodes Center for the Arts, 251 N. Spruce St. Tickets start at $14.50. 

Dec. 14
ChristmasFest in Old Salem. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Held in in the spirit of a traditional German Christmas market, this third annual event features a festive mix of offerings. Christmas carols will ring out throughout, performed by various choirs, bands, brass ensembles, and more. Other highlights include artist demos, holiday gift shopping, food/drink vendors, and various kid-friendly activities. (including an appearance by St. Nick himself.) Admission is free.

Dec. 14
Festive Family Friday at Kaleideum. 4:30–8:30 p.m. Head to Kaleideum in downtown for this holiday celebration for the whole family. Listen to live music, create festive holiday crafts and reindeer food, and visit with Santa (on the roof!) Tickets are $7 online, $10 at the door. For an extra-special holiday treat, add on the Cupcakes & Cocoa with Santa in the Digital Dome. For just $15 more per person, you can enjoy a delicious treat, a special craft, and a professional photo with Santa in a cozy holiday setting. (Pre-registration required for Cupcakes & Cocoa.)

Dec. 19
“Candlelight,” a Holiday Special by UNCSA. 8:45 p.m. A new offering this holiday season, this is a live, multi-sensory musical experience performed by the Listeso String Quartet. Amid the glow of candlelight, they will perform many holiday favorites, including pieces from “The Nutcracker,” as well as songs of Hanukkah. The concert will be at UNCSA’s Freedman Theatre, 1533 S. Main St. Tickets start at $33.

Dec. 20
Art Crush: Holiday Edition. 7–10 p.m. Held the third Friday of each month, this block party lets you experience the best of the Downtown Arts District with vendors, music, and extended gallery hours. This month will feature a special holiday theme with curated mix of decorations, holiday specials, festive performances, and a few special guests (including Santa himself). Stroll the block, mingle with fellow art crushers, and buy unique, handmade gifts while supporting local artists. ART Crush is at the corner of Sixth and Trade Streets. Admission is free.

Dec. 21
Christmas for the City. 1–6 p.m. Local churches, businesses, nonprofits and members of the arts community all come together at the Benton Convention Center for this citywide party that celebrates the diversity of our community. Highlights include live music, art performances, kids’ activities, a make-your-own toy workshop a visit from Santa, and more. Benton Convention Center, 301 W. Fifth Street. The event is free and open to the public.

Dec. 21
"A Christmas Carol" Drone Light Show. 6:30 p.m. The Dash are hosting the first-ever Holiday Drone Light Show in the Triad, bringing 500 drones to Truist Stadium to light up the sky with a rendition of the classic story, A Christmas Carol. The event is being done in partnership with Celestial, an industry-leading drone show art company. Tickets start at $20. 

Dec. 21
Motown Christmas featuring Envision. 7 p.m. Experience the magic of Motown with live music from local favorites Envision. Indulge in delicious food and a variety of drinks while enjoying the festive atmosphere and participating in a live auction.  This event is hosted by Delta Arts Center and held at UR Coliseum, 4421 Poindexter Road in Walkertown, NC.

Dec. 23
Vienna Light Orchestra. (two shows): 3:30 and 7 p.m. Get ready to be enchanted by the world-renowned Vienna Light Orchestra as they perform renditions of beloved holiday classics like "White Christmas," "O Holy Night," and "Ave Maria” amid holiday lights and falling snow. The concerts will be at Reynolds Auditorium, 301 N. Hawthorne Road. Tickets start at $45. 

Dec. 24
Christmas Eve Lovefeasts. Carols, coffee, and candlelight: simple traditions that have come to define the holiday season for many in Winston-Salem. They’re all components of the Christmas Eve Lovefeast, held annually at local Moravian churches. More than two dozen Moravian churches in our region hold Christmas Eve lovefeasts — with many holding multiple services throughout the day. Most churches also hold a Christmas Lovefeast the Sunday before Christmas Eve (Dec. 22). For specific service times, you’ll need to check individual church websites. (Here are the results of a quick search of Moravian churches in Winston-Salem.) 

Looking for more holiday events, shows, and spectacles? Check out our online Events Calendar for a guide to all the holiday happenings through New Year's Eve.