KidsOutAndAbout Weekly Newsletter |
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Dear KidsOutAndAbout readers:
When my husband and I started planning a family, we talked a lot about the kind of parents we hoped to be. Naturally, we looked back on our own childhoods. David had story after story about his parents—their quirks, what they cared about, who they were. But when I tried to do the same, I came up oddly blank. I could tell you what I loved as a kid, but not much about what made my own
parents’ hearts sing. I remembered that my dad had a garden when I was little, but I couldn’t say whether he enjoyed digging in the dirt, liked making things grow, or was just trying to save money on vegetables. That realization stuck with me. I didn’t want my kids to grow up seeing me as a blur in the background of their story; I wanted them to see me clearly: as someone who had favorite things, real interests, and a sense of enjoyment they could understand. I wanted them to
grow up expecting that adulthood could be full of that, too... all of the vivid experiences that make up the inner life of a regular person, especially the joys. I started using the phrase "live what you love" as a kind of parenting guidepost. Our kids are always watching, taking cues about what adulthood looks like. If all they ever see is grownups stressed, rushing, and tired, they’ll assume that’s the default. But if they also see us delighted by a song, energized by a
game, inspired by something we've learned, genuinely laughing with people we love... that’s powerful. It shows them that joy isn’t something you age out of, it’s something you grow into. The holidays are packed with tasks and to-do lists, but they’re also full of opportunities for joy. So tune your radar to what YOU love, and if you catch yourself smiling at paper snowflakes or belting out a corny carol, don’t downplay it. Let yourself have that moment. When your kids see the
joy you've just pushed into the room; it's a gift to their present and to their future.
—Debra Ross, publisher
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KidsOutAndAbout.com: Discover more. Do more. Connect more. If you like my publisher's column, you can easily scroll through past columns in the "Notes from Deb" section of our site. |
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Capture the Magic this holiday season when the 4th Annual Holiday Walk-Thru Experience arrives in Ballantyne - November 28-December 30th, 5:30pm-10:00pm! Tickets start at $10. Immerse yourself in the wonder of the season with over a million Christmas lights along a half-mile walking trail, located in Ballantyne's Backyard. See spectacular Light Displays, dozens of oversized Snow Globes, Magical Interactive Wand Elements throughout the event, hundreds of decorated trees, an Illuminated Elf Playground, a 30’ x 40’ Ice Castle with a Princess Carriage, and a brand new Winter Wonderland Carnival. See Ballerinas and other performers every night. Santa will be there nightly through December 23rd.
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Clara’s Trip: A Cirque & Dance Nutcracker Story is Charlotte’s homegrown holiday classic! Join Clara on a whimsical adventure filled with breathtaking aerial dance, acrobatics, and laughter as her holiday party takes an unexpected turn. Perfect for families, this contemporary spin on The Nutcracker blends circus arts and dance into a heartwarming story of friendship, courage, and holiday magic. Presented by Caroline Calouche & Co., Clara’s Trip returns to the Booth Playhouse December 12–14, 2025, with a special Children’s Show on December 13 & 14. Tickets start at $35 at carolinecalouche.org/clarastrip
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Holiday magic is back in Charlotte Youth Ballet’s 45th annual production of The Nutcracker! This family-friendly event showcases the artistry of local student dancers and professionals from around the world. CYB is a nonprofit organization led by Charlotte legend, Gay Porter, and Artist Director, Bridget Porter Young. Get your tickets HERE. General Admission shows: Friday, December 5 at 7pmSaturday, December 6 at 2pm and 7pmSunday, December 7 at 2:30pm
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Experience Christmas Eve in a new way -- where kids can be kids as carols set the scene for an interactive nativity in which the whole family can participate, followed by the Christmas story told in a way you have never seen before. Take in the wonder after the 1:00 worship hour at the live Nativity in the courtyard while petting animals and snagging the perfect family photo or hang out after the 2:30 & 4:30 services for family activities, s’mores, hot chocolate, treats for Santa & more. Check out seasonal events for ALL ages at MatthewsUMC.org/Christmas.
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Dive into the holiday spirit at SEA LIFE Charlotte’s SEAson of Trees! Wander through an underwater winter wonderland featuring over 20 uniquely themed Christmas trees sparkling throughout the aquarium. From ocean-inspired ornaments to festive sea creatures, it’s a magical celebration that brings holiday cheer beneath the waves!
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Bring the family for festive songs, singalongs, and more at Holiday Pops with the Charlotte Symphony Orchestra! On December 13, experience the magic of the holidays at Knight Theater in a special one-hour family performance with the Orchestra, the Charlotte Master Chorale, and special guests including Santa and friends! Songs like "The Twelve Days of Christmas" and "Santa Claus is Coming to Town" and traditional carols with sounds of bluegrass and blues will wrap you in the season's warmth and joy. Get your tickets now!
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The circus meets the Symphony at Cirque de Noël! Join the Charlotte Symphony Orchestra on December 19–21 for jaw-dropping feats as aerialists soar high above the Orchestra and awe-inspiring acrobatics unfold to holiday music at Knight Theater. Experience the wonder and joy of the holiday season in this magical event for the whole family. Get tickets now!
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Christmas in Davidson, one of the Town of Davidson’s signature events, will return this year on Thursday, December 4; Friday, December 5; and Saturday, December 6 from 6 pm to 9 pm nightly. The official opening ceremonies will be on Thursday, December 4 at 6 pm with Santa Claus' arrival and the annual tree lighting ceremony on the Town Green. Guests can expect to enjoy a Holiday light show, roving entertainment, live nativity scenes, bubble snowflakes, unique gifts from the artisan village, a children’s craft area, and more!
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You're Invited to Our Merry Vendor Market! Join us at Benford Brewing for a festive day of shopping, community, and cheer! We'll have a vendor market, permanent jewelry, handcrafted goods, art, delicious treats, live music, a kids zone, face painting, balloons, petting zoo, and adult beverages! Bring your friends and family, and let’s kick off the holiday season together! Don’t miss out on the fun – we can’t wait to see you there!
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Carrying forward the legacy of New Orleans’ most storied jazz institution, the Preservation Hall Legacy All-Stars bring the Crescent City’s holiday spirit to the Queen City. Expect soulful carols, joyful swing, and the timeless sound of New Orleans traditional jazz in this festive holiday celebration for the whole family. This special weekend benefits our JazzArts Academy programs. New Orleans’ Preservation Hall was established in 1961 to honor one of America’s truest art forms – Traditional New Orleans Jazz. Operating as a venue, a touring band, and a non-profit organization, Preservation Hall continues its mission today as a cornerstone of New Orleans music and culture. The Preservation Hall All-Stars are the premiere ensemble of the most tenured artists from the greater Preservation Hall musical collective. Each performer bears a unique connection to the earliest practitioners of jazz itself, some by bloodline but all united by the sheer power of tradition. In addition to…
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Embrace the spirit of the season at the Winter Holiday Market and experience the best of winter with festive sites, sounds, flavors and gifts. 50 vendors will feature locally made goods, including home décor, candles, soaps, holiday gifts, family items and more. A donation-based gift-wrapping station will be onsite, making this a one stop shop for gifts for yourself or loved ones. Live music will keep you feeling jolly, a festive photo station to capture the spirit of the season, and firepits will keep your toes toasty and the magic of the season ablaze! Also onsite, the Greenway Canteen will be selling meals, snacks, s’mores kits and your favorite hot and cold beverages, including limited-time signature specials for the event.
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Join us for a full day of holiday magic in Downtown Huntersville at Veterans Park, filled with free children's rides, artisan ice sculptures, festive performances by local groups, classic carolers, face painters, balloon twisters, and roaming holiday characters. Capture the moment with pictures with Santa and shop from over 50 local vendors offering the perfect gifts for everyone on your list. Celebrate the season with us — it's all free and fun for the whole family!
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The 43rd Annual North Mecklenburg Holiday Parade will take place on Saturday, December 6, 2025, at 1 pm. The parade route is approximately two (2) miles long and follows Main Street (Hwy. 115) from the Town of Davidson ending at the intersection of North Main Street and Catawba Ave in the Town of Cornelius. After the parade, the Merry Main Street Tricycle Race will take place on Main Street in front of the Town Green. This annual event includes four-person trike teams sponsored by Davidson businesses that race through an obstacle course for all to enjoy.
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Step into the enchanting world of ChristmasVille 2025 – where magic fills the air and joy knows no bounds! Venture into the heart of Old Town Rock Hill from Thursday, December 4th, to Sunday, December 7th, and let the festivities whisk you away on a whimsical journey. Prepare to be dazzled as Santa himself descends from the North Pole during our grand Opening Ceremony, marking the beginning of four days brimming with merriment and wonder. With nearly 70 spellbinding events and activities awaiting you, there’s something for everyone to enjoy – from enchanting horse-drawn carriage rides to captivating historic tours, music, and even a gingerbread house contest that promises to ignite your creative spirit! And that’s not all! Indulge in scrumptious treats, and partake in multiple Santa-filled adventures that will warm your heart and ignite your festive spirit. Bring your loved ones and create cherished memories amidst the twinkling lights and festive cheer of ChristmasVille 2025…
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Face painters, holiday crafts, a winter maze, inflatable games, Curley the Clown balloon twisting, and SANTA makes an appearance for photos! Performances from community groups, and the lighting of the tree and all of Stumptown Park! At approximately 5:30 pm, the park lighting ceremony begins. Charlotte Academy of Music, School of Rock, Crestdale Middle School Chorus, Charlotte Dance Alliance, and Metrolina Christian Academy Choir will be performing on stage. Tree and park light at approximately 6:30 pm.
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- First Fridays 2025 - Town of Pineville, NC - Main
Street, Pineville, NC 28134, Friday, December 5, 2025, 5 pm - 9 pm
- Winterfest & Tree Lighting - Town of Indian Trail - 315 Matthews-Indian Trail Rd, Indian Trail, NC 28079, Friday, December 5, 2025, 6 pm - 9 pm
- Kid's market at Indian Trail's Winterfest - 320 Chestnut Parkway, Indian Trail, NC 28079, Friday, December 5, 2025, 6:00 pm
- SCNP: Friday Fire and S'mores (drop-in) - Stevens Creek Nature Preserve, 15700 Thompson Road, Mint Hill, NC 28227, Friday, December 5, 2025, 10:30 am to 12:00 pm
- Holidays
In Huntersville: Tree Lighting - 201 Huntersville-Concord Road, Huntersville, NC, Friday, December 5, 2025, 6 pm
- The Merry Market at Benford Brewing Co. - Benford Brewing Company, Boxcar Rd, Lancaster, SC, Friday, December 5, 2025, 4 pm - 8 pm
- Annual Christmas Tree Lighting 2025 - Town of Harrisburg - Harrisburg Park, Sims Parkway, Harrisburg, NC, Friday, December 5, 2025, 6 pm - 8:30
pm
- Babes in the Woods - McDowell Nature Center, York Road, Charlotte, NC, Friday, December 5, 2025, 10 am - 11 am
- Christmas in Stallings Park - 340 Stallings Road, Stallings, NC 28104, Saturday, December 6, 2025, 3 pm - 6 pm
- Merry Pop-Up Market at New Sarum Brewing Company - 109 N Lee Street, Salisbury, NC 28144, Saturday, December 6, 2025,
11 am - 5 pm
- Holidays In Huntersville 2025 - 103 N Main St, Huntersville, NC, Saturday, December 6, 2025, 3 pm - 8 pm
- Christmas in Davidson 2025 - 118 S Main St, Davidson, NC, Saturday, December 6, 2025, 6 pm - 9 pm
- 43rd Annual North Mecklenburg Holiday Parade - Main Street, Davidson, NC 28036, Saturday, December 6, 2025, 1 pm
- Gnome for the Holidays - Main Street Children's Museum - Main Street Children's Museum, East Main Street, Rock Hill, SC, Saturday,
December 6, 2025 and Sunday, December 7, 2025, See website for details
- SCNP: World Wildlife Day (drop in) - Stevens Creek Nature Preserve, 15700 Thompson Road, Mint Hill, NC 28227, Saturday, December 6, 2025, 9:30 am to 11:30 am
- Cards of Cheer: Drop-In Holiday Thank-You Station - ImaginOn - ImaginOn: The Joe & Joan Martin Center, 300 East 7th Street, Charlotte, NC 28202, Saturday, December 6, 2025, All day
- Family Storytime: Holiday Celebration - ImaginOn - ImaginOn: The Joe & Joan Martin Center, 300 East 7th Street, Charlotte, NC 28202, Saturday, December 6, 2025, 10:30 am - 11 am
- Matthews Heritage Museum Presents: Victorian Tales and Traditions of Holidays Past - Matthews Library - Charlotte Mecklenburg Library - Matthews, 230 Matthews Station St, Matthews, NC 28105, Saturday, December 6, 2025, 2 pm - 2:45 pm
- Kwanzaa Charlotte Family Workshop - Allegra Westbrooks Regional Library - Allegra Westbrooks Regional Library - Beatties Ford Road, Beatties Ford Road, Charlotte, NC, Saturday, December 6, 2025, 12 pm - 2 pm
- Sensory Friendly Holiday Meet & Greet with the Big Green Guy! - Epworth United Methodist Church 1030 Burrage Rd NE, Concord,
NC 28025, Saturday, December 6, 2025, 11:00 am - 1:00 pm
- Sustainability Saturday - McDowell Nature Center, York
Road, Charlotte, NC, Saturday, December 6, 2025, 1:30 pm - 4:30 pm
- Winter Wonderlights - Matthews, NC - Stumptown Park, South Trade Street, Matthews, NC, Saturday, December 6, 2025, 3:30 pm - 6:30 pm
- 2025 Christmas Parade - Town of Indian Trail - 315 Matthews-Indian Trail Rd, Indian Trail, NC 28079, Sunday, December 7, 2025, 4 pm
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The Charlotte area offers a delightful selection of Christmas tree farms that bring the magic of the holiday season to life. Families can enjoy the cherished tradition of selecting the perfect tree while exploring picturesque landscapes and engaging in
festive activities.
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There are tons of opportunities for 2025 family holiday fun in the Charlotte, North Carolina area. Christmas concerts, lights, trees, Santa sightings, and more... plus activities for Chanukah and New Year's Eve.
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Click here to discover Birthday party locations in the Charlotte area. From Arcades to Ziplines our Big List will help you think outside the box and plan the party of your kids' dreams! KidsOutAndAbout has dozens of ideas!
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2025's Top 20 Places to Take Kids in the Charlotte Area, as voted by thousands of parents! Our Top 20 results page includes a list of your top picks, including winners in special categories like Top Arts Educator, Top Sports Educator, and Top STEM
Educator!
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Here's to seizing opportunities to learn wherever they appear!
Debra Ross
Publisher, KidsOutAndAbout.com
Mom of Madison and Ella |
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