Gastonia Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025
Your complete guide to the best christmas events in Gastonia and surrounding areas
For the festive season, Gastonia fills historic downtown and local parks with glowing Christmas lights and lively holiday activities, creating a community‑focused calendar of events. Highlights like Christmas Town U.S.A.®, Dino Nights & Holiday Lights, and holiday markets at The Grand Hall provide things to do for families, from tree lightings and parades to seasonal shopping and themed performances.
Find the best Gastonia Christmas happenings this year!
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Christmas Markets
23 eventsEvolved European market to holiday pop-up retailer.
Christmas Lights
15 eventsAmusement park transformed into a holiday wonderland
Christmas Shows
6 eventsLive orchestra and breathtaking choreography
Christmas Activities
22 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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Speedway Christmas
(Concord)
Southeast's largest drive-thru holiday light show.
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Statesville Christmas Parade
(Statesville)
Annual Christmas Parade with Santa Claus
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The Nutcracker by Charlotte Ballet
(Charlotte)
Live orchestra and breathtaking choreography
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Charlotte Christmas Village Pop-Up Retailer
(Charlotte)
Evolved European market to holiday pop-up retailer.
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Downtown Statesville Christmas Tree Lighting
(Statesville)
Christmas tree lighting with Santa and free train rides.
Events Happening Soon (6)
Christmas Parties Near Gastonia
Festive dining experiences, holiday parties, and Christmas-themed food and drink events in Gastonia.
Jazz at the Garden Holidays: Adam Hawley
Immerse yourself in a magical holiday evening with smooth jazz and dazzling lights....
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Latest News & Updates
Stay informed about holiday events and activities in Gastonia
- Gastonia Christmas Parade and City Celebration Published: Mon, Nov 17, 2025
- Mike Tramp Acoustic Christmas in Gastonia Published: Wed, Nov 12, 2025
Gastonia Christmas Events Map
See every Christmas event, light display, and market on one map.
Also Near Gastonia
Christmas Events Road Trips & Weekend Getaways
Worth the drive for more holiday events near Gastonia!
Gastonia Christmas FAQ
The biggest events include the Christmas in the City parade, tree lighting ceremony, and vendor market held downtown and at the Rotary Pavilion each December.
Gastonia features unique traditions like the Keep Gastonia Beautiful Tree Lighting and dinosaur-themed holiday exhibits at the Schiele Museum, blending local culture with festive fun.
Beloved neighborhood displays throughout Gastonia offer great spots for viewing Christmas lights, with some areas known locally for their festive community decorations.
Christmas markets and local artisans can be found at events like Christmas in the City at the Rotary Pavilion and various neighborhood markets near Gastonia throughout the holiday season.
Free activities include attending the Christmas parade, tree lighting, and exploring neighborhood light displays. Many markets and community events also offer free admission and entertainment.
Family-friendly options include Breakfast with Santa at Rankin Lake Park, Dino Nights & Holiday Lights at the Schiele Museum, and festive markets with crafts and entertainment suitable for children.