The season glows through 2017 from Belmont to McAdenville’s Christmas Town USA
Illuminate your holiday this year with a visit to Belmont, N.C. From its small-town charm to dazzling streetscapes, twinkling gardens, boutique shopping and family-friendly festivities, the season shines bright just miles from Charlotte where the celebration kicks off before Thanksgiving even comes to a close.
The area boasts merry fun for kids of all ages – including kids at heart – when celebrating the season. Whether you seek a contemporary natural winter wonderland or a city that decks its halls in tradition, the Belmont region offers both to visitors — as well as several holiday activities, including music, parades, tree lightings and more.
Said Jim Hoffman, chairman of Belmont Tourism Development Authority, “Christmastime in Belmont truly shines. It’s not just local families gathering on our streets. People travel here from across the U.S. as well as internationally for the historic feel of our community, the comradery of a small town, and the lights and sounds that carry memories and traditions during the holidays.”
Memory-making begins Nov. 18 at Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden. Holiday spirit drips from twinkling trees and fountains at Holidays at the Garden, which features a towering tree of orchids, more than 600,000 lights and illuminated displays throughout the 400-plus acre venue. Gather around the crackling fire after you wander the various pathways and take in the sparkling sights. Bring the entire family, or venture to the Garden as a couple; take a horse-drawn carriage ride or enjoy a visit with Santa. Garden lights flicker on at 5 p.m. through Jan. 1.
A short drive from Belmont’s holiday festivities, discover the shimmer and fare of Christmas Town, USA, or McAdenville. Every year since 1956, this quaint community transforms into a holiday spectacle worthy of its nickname, welcoming thousands upon thousands of guests from near and far. Homeowners and the city come together to bring Christmas Town to life with street-lined lit homes, more than 375 decorated trees, 200 shining lamppost wreaths, chiming Christmas music, a life-size Nativity scene and a large gleaming lake fountain, reflecting its bright colors along the water. McAdenville’s unique display has warmed the hearts of millions for six decades. Festivities include its 4th Annual Christmas Town 5K, the Yule Log Ceremony – a town tradition since 1950 – and the Annual Christmas Town Festival. The Tree Lighting Ceremony starts the season on Dec. 1, running ‘til Dec. 26.
In historic downtown Belmont, the brick-lined sidewalks glisten with dazzling lights as well. While staying in the city, enjoy various activities including the Belmont Christmas Tree Lighting on Dec. 5, the Annual Christmas Parade on Dec. 6, and Downtown Christmas Village on Dec. 9. Additionally, at Belmont Abbey College, take in the sweet sounds of the Arts at the Abbey College Holiday Concert, Dec. 9 from 8-10 p.m. This event is held at the Abbey Basilica, a basilica of pilgrimage also listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1973.
“There are few places where you feel the same warmth, hope and joy at Christmastime as you do in Belmont,” said Ted Hall, president of the Chamber of Commerce. “Our community welcomes visitors here year-round, for dining, shopping and much more, but we especially welcome guests during this beautiful and magical season.”
