Cornelius Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025
Your complete guide to the best christmas events in Cornelius and surrounding areas
Cornelius comes alive for the holiday season as historic downtown fills with festive events, sparkling Christmas lights and family-friendly holiday attractions around Smithville and the waterfront. Don’t miss Light Up Cornelius Tree Lighting and the North Mecklenburg Holiday Parade for classic community cheer. Stroll holiday markets, join seasonal entertainment and enjoy activities that bring neighbors together in a warm lakeside setting.
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Christmas Markets
24 eventsEvolved European market to holiday pop-up retailer.
Christmas Lights
16 eventsAmusement park transformed into a holiday wonderland
Christmas Shows
10 eventsHoliday concert with jazz vocalist Tony DeSare and symphony orchestra.
Christmas Activities
34 eventsAnnual Christmas Parade with Santa Claus
Editor's Picks (6)
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Carowinds WinterFest
(Charlotte)
Amusement park transformed into a holiday wonderland
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Ardmore Moravian Church Candle Tea
(Winston-Salem)
A tour of traditional Moravian Christmas customs
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A Carolina Christmas: Home for the Holidays
(Winston-Salem)
Holiday concert with jazz vocalist Tony DeSare and symphony orchestra.
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Speedway Christmas
(Concord)
Southeast's largest drive-thru holiday light show.
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High Point Holiday Festival Parade
(High Point)
A historic holiday parade with over 100 entries
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Statesville Christmas Parade
(Statesville)
Annual Christmas Parade with Santa Claus
Events Happening Soon (6)
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Also Near Cornelius
Christmas Events Road Trips & Weekend Getaways
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Cornelius Christmas FAQ
The biggest annual Christmas events in Cornelius include the Light Up Cornelius celebration and the Christmas Extravaganza, both drawing large crowds for festive activities and shopping.
Cornelius is known for its community-focused tree lighting and visits from Santa, as well as beloved local traditions like horse-drawn carriage rides and model train displays during the holidays.
Downtown Cornelius and several residential neighborhoods are popular for their festive Christmas light displays, with many families decorating their homes for the season.
Christmas markets and local makers can be found at the annual Christmas Extravaganza, downtown vendor stalls, and community events throughout Cornelius.
Free or budget-friendly holiday activities in Cornelius include the tree lighting, community performances, and neighborhood light displays, all offering festive fun without a high price tag.
Families with kids enjoy the Light Up Cornelius event, sledding hill, trackless train rides, and visits with Santa, all designed to create memorable holiday moments for children.