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 14, 2025
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!
The Polar ExpressTM Train Ride
Now - December 23, 2025
“Well, are you coming?” Inspired by the hit movie, this holiday favorite comes to life as you and your family take a magical trip on THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride at the N.C. Transportation Museum! Set to the sounds of the motion picture soundtrack, families are sure to enjoy their trip to the North Pole. Experience the joy of caroling and holiday entertainment that will surely become an annual family tradition. Children of all ages are encouraged to wear their pajamas for the ride and join in on the magic of Christmas!
The Polar ExpressTM Stay & Play Package
Be sure to Book a Stay in Rowan County to receive free tickets to The Polar Express or a VISA e-Gift Card while supplies last. Find out more about our Polar ExpressTM Stay & Play Package here.
Celebration of Lights & the Winterland Express
Now - December 30, 2025
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!
Arbor Hills Holiday Festival
Now - January 31, 2026
Experience the magic of the season at the Arbor Hills Holiday Festival, where more than 1 million lights, illuminated walking trails, and unlimited tubing runs create a winter wonderland for all ages. Families can enjoy reindeer rides, a bounce house, remote-controlled boats, food and coffee trucks, and special visits from Santa on select nights. With snowmaking beginning as temperatures allow (though tubing doesn’t require snow!), this festive celebration runs select nights from November 28 through January 31 in Cleveland, N.C.
Holiday Night Out/Free Photos with Santa & Grinch
December 5, 2025
Join us in Downtown Salisbury for FREE photos with Santa & Grinch, live music, and so much more. Plus, there’s a 100% chance of snow! Holiday Night Out is an annual tradition that takes place on E Fisher Street on Black Friday. Downtown businesses stay open later and the community is invited to share holiday cheer while shopping in our unique shops, boutiques, and restaurants.
Winterfest - A Christmas Marketplace
December 5-7, 2025
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!
Christmas in the Grove
December 6, 2025
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!
Holly Jolly Farm Days at Patterson Farm
December 6 & 7, 2025
Nothing says "happy holidays" more than festive days 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.
Historic Gold Hill Christmas in the Village
December 6 & 7, 13 & 14 & 20, 2025
The historic village of Gold Hill is once again transforming into a Christmas wonderland as the Gold Hill Merchants’ Association presents the annual Christmas in the Village celebration. Visitors are invited to enjoy the charm and nostalgia of a small-town holiday throughout three festive weekends in December.
Winterfest at the Cherry Treesort
December 7, 2025
Winterfest 2025 is the only time we open all 10 of our units for TOURS. They also have 45 kids that set up alongside our road and they have our Annual Young Entrepreneurs Fest. Kids come from all over the County and set up there stands and sell their products that they make. They also have Santa Joe that comes from 3-5 and takes FREE pictures with the family. Come spend the afternoon with them and enjoy Winterfest at the Cherry Treesort.
Scrooge's Christmas Trolley Tour
December 16 - 23, 2025
This annual holiday favorite returns to Lee Street theatre the winter of 2025! Hop on the the Trolley and be whisked back in time as we perform the Dicken's classic, all while touring the city!
Winter Train Rides at the N.C. Transportation Museum
December 26 - 31, 2025
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, 2025
Say goodbye to 2025 and ring in 2026 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.
Plan Your Visit this December
Pair your winter adventure with a cozy overnight stay at a participating Rowan County hotel. With our Christmas in Rowan County Stay & Play Package, you’ll receive a VISA e-Gift Card worth 50% of your stay, perfect for enjoying fall dining, local attractions, or unique shopping along the way. Or, from Thanksgiving through New Year’s, travelers can enjoy our $100 VISA Holiday Stay & Play Package. Book a qualifying stay using the widget, and we’ll automatically send you a $100 VISA e-Gift Card to use toward holiday shopping, meals, attractions, or even more winter fun during your visit. It’s the perfect way to create memories, explore Rowan County’s original holiday magic, and make your December even more special.
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.