The breeze is rolling in that cool, winter air already and with the mix of fall and winter activities all in one month, there is never a dull moment in Rowan County. Finish out the fall season on the farm or in a historic village, get some holiday shopping done with our local businesses at our holiday shopping events or get a head start on making holiday memories with the family. No matter your motive, join Rowan County in saying farewell to autumn and warmly welcoming the beginning to a holiday season full of magic and memories.
Patterson Farm Fall Fun on the Farm
September 24 - November 5
Each year when the air begins to cool and crisp leaves begin to collect on the ground, Patterson Farm opens its fields to families to make original fall memories at Patterson Farm's Fall Fun on the Farm event. This year, Patterson Farm has a variety of autumnal activities to help you to embrace the season. Visit Mount Ulla, N.C. this autumn to experience all the fall fun that awaits you on the farm.
The Polar Express Train Ride
November 11 - December 23
“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!
Staying overnight?
Be sure to Book a Stay in Rowan County to receive free tickets or gift certificates to the museum's gift shop while supplies last. Find out more about our Polar Express Stay & Play Package here.
Kannapolis Cruise-In
November 12
The Kannapolis Cruise-In is a locally famous cruise-in that takes place in Kannapolis on the N.C. Research Campus. It is not uncommon to see more than 500+ classic cars at this event. Join us in Kannapolis this November in viewing one-of-a-kind classic cars that you may never see anywhere else.
Lighting of the Fall Fires
November 19
Join us in Gold Hill for a delightful evening of entertainment, refreshments and warm holiday cheer, while strolling through Historic Gold Hill and it's quaint shops! The village and each shop will be decorated to the nines in festive lights, greenery and red bows. Sing carols on the street corners as you stroll along the wooden sidewalks, smell the smoke from the pot-belly stoves and warm your bones by the bonfires at this classic Gold Hill event.
Celebration of Lights & the Winterland Express
November 20 - December 30
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!
South Rowan Christmas Parade & Landis Tree Lighting
November 22
The 44th Annual Southern Rowan Christmas Parade will take place on Tuesday, November 22, 2022, beginning in Landis at 3:00 P.M. and restarting at approximately 4:00 P.M. in China Grove. Join the Town of Landis after the parade for some festive fun! Food and activities will be set up along N. Central Ave from 4:00 - 6:00 P.M.! Meet some favorite Holiday Characters, write a letter to Santa and make an ornament while you're there!
'Tis the Season Holiday Spectacular Parade & Celebration
November 23
Welcome in the holiday season with Downtown Spencer and Downtown Salisbury's 'Tis the Season Spectacular Parade & Celebration! This year's parade will be held Wednesday, November 23, 2022 and will be begin at 2 P.M. in Downtown Spencer and 3 P.M. in Downtown Salisbury. The parade will present musical acts, floats and more, and festivities will continue at Bell Tower Green with the band Too Much Sylvia performing live on stage. There will also be the community tree lighting, street performers, food trucks, and of course - Santa!
Holiday Night Out
November 25
The biggest shopping night of the year happens in Downtown Salisbury during Holiday Night Out! Shop the stores all day and night. Join us in Downtown Salisbury on November 25, 2022 form 5 P.M. to 9 P.M..
Kannapolis Annual Holiday Market
November 25 - 27
Begin your holiday shopping Thanksgiving weekend at the Holiday Market in Kannapolis, N.C.. Local vendors and artists will have plenty of holiday goodies to choose from stocking stuffers to those hard-to-find gift items. The market will be inside Kannapolis City Hall, 401 Laureate Way, Kannapolis, from 10 A.M. to 6 P.M. each day. Food and drinks will be on sale and admission is free!
Small Business Saturday
November 26
Continue a weekend of shopping at Small Business Saturday in Downtown Salisbury. This all-day shopping event will be accompanied by holiday caroling and a variety fun activities. Support local businesses and celebrate Small Business Saturday in Downtown Salisbury!
Find out all the fun activities in store for you this November on our event calendar.
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