It's officially December, and that means one thing: it's officially time to make the most of the holiday season before it's too late. Between shopping, decorating, preparing for parties, and getting ready for the big day, it seems time basically flies by in preparation. Don't find yourself on Christmas Eve wishing you had done more Christmasy things, this bucket list will help you make the season Merry & Bright in North Carolina.
1. Visit Biltmore Estate.
It doesn't feel like Christmas until you celebrate in a lavish, merry and bright fashion. Stroll the grounds and gardens then head inside to witness intricate decorations including 70 tress and all the fireplaces.
2. Shop for some Moravian sweet treats.
Maybe it's just the section of the state I grew up in - but Moravian cookies were a Christmas tradition and easy go-to for presents. It's also neat to experience the history like at the 200-year old WInkler Bakery in Winsotn-Salem or classic Dewey's Bakery.
3. Attend a Christmas flotilla.
We're right on the coast, and have plenty of large lakes throughout the state. From Lake Norman to Wrightsville Beach a 'Holiday Flotilla' is a classic way to celebrate the season right on the water. It is also a magical experience for the kids and makes for some amazing pictures!
4. Go to a Christmas parade in your hometown or current town.
Nothing rings in the spirit like a good ol' band version of 'Santa Claus is Coming to Town.'
5. Visit the gardens.
From Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden in Belmont to the enchanting Elizabethan Gardens in Manteo, strolling a garden decked to the nines with Christmas lights is romantic and beautiful.
6. Hop on board.
From the Polar Express offered through Great Smoky Mountains Railroad or even the Denton Christmas Train, get in the spirit (and enjoy seeing the little ones get into it) with an unforgettable train ride.
7. Visit a true 'Christmas Town.'
From the tried and true Christmas Town U.S.A, cozy Forest City, or the back-in-time luminaries at Dillsboro, North Carolina is filled with Christmas towns that have been plucked straight from a movie.
8. Shop till you drop.
Everyone has their shopping destination of choice - some go small and boutiquey while others hit the mall. South Park Mall in Charlotte is a great large-scale place to get some shopping done, while the smaller shops on the coast offer a more unique variety.
9. See the Nutcracker.
From professional ballet companies like Charlotte or Carolina Ballet, to School of the Arts, even to your niece's dance studio - catching the Nutcracker is a beloved tradition and a great way to ring in the season.
10. Hop in the car.
Throughout the state, you can find various 'festival of lights,' which include breathtaking drive-thru displays. If anything, it's always fun to hop in the car with friends and family to visit neighborhoods in your area and catch their light displays.
Now it truly feels 'a lot like Christmas!' If you're looking for more ways to celebrate the season, these 10 Christmas towns are simply magical and these light displays are breathtaking.
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