If you think it's beginning to look and feel a lot like Christmas in North Carolina, then just wait until you visit the largest drive-thru light show, the Charlotte Speedway Christmas lights, to celebrate Christmas in Charlotte, North Carolina! If you've been researching "holiday lights near me," look no further, friends. Beginning in November, light displays and other holiday attractions and activities start to appear throughout North Carolina, and we thought it was fitting to start with the biggest one out there. Check it out below and then add this fun family event to your list of activities this season. The biggest and best Christmas lights near Charlotte, N.C. are also in one of the most unique locations: the Speedway.
For some, driving through this signature location may be one of their other Christmas dreams come true! That's because several years ago, the Charlotte Motor Speedway started including the track (yes, that track) in their gigantic Christmas lights drive-thru display route. Prior to that, you may have passed over the track... but now, if you've ever dreamed of driving on the track at the Charlotte Motor Speedway, then you're in for an extra special holiday treat!
It's a fantastic and festive evening out for the family. If you're looking for things to do with the kids at Christmas in North Carolina, then this one is a must. Sure, there are many places to see a great holiday lights display in North Carolina, but driving on the Charlotte Motor Speedway is an unparalleled experience.
There are 4 million lights spread out over the speedway and the drive-thru route has grown to a full 3.75 miles, including most of the oval itself, as well as the infield. Whether you're a race fan or not, you'll enjoy the larger-than-life Christmas light displays and the accompanying holiday soundtrack that's coordinated with 101.3 FM. This may be the absolute best place to see Christmas lights in North Carolina.
When I took my children to experience these lights, the areas synchronized to music were my favorite parts. It's magical seeing the lights moving to the music, almost as though they are dancing and celebrating the most wonderful time of year! After making it through the lights, head over to the Christmas Village for a photo with Santa, hot chocolate, s'mores by the fire, and more. The Christmas Village is only open on select nights, so see the list of dates on the official website before booking your tickets in advance.
We also especially enjoyed the s'mores and horse-drawn carriage decked out with festive, colorful Christmas lights. Food, shopping, and more round out the most unique evening you can have at the Speedway Christmas event at Charlotte Motor Speedway.
This lights display ranked as a top Christmas experience ever for me, and I would highly recommend it for anyone who has never been before. I would go back again myself, even traveling from an adjacent state. We just make sure to grab some road trip snacks so no one gets too hungry before we get there!
The Charlotte Speedway holiday lights display is open seven nights a week; however, the Christmas Village is normally open only on select nights.
Have you visited the largest drive-thru light show as you celebrate Christmas in Charlotte, North Carolina in previous years? We'd love to hear about your experience! The best times to go, of course, are any night other than Friday or Saturday when traffic is at its highest. Keep in mind the Christmas Village is normally open only on select nights and check that information if you want to attend when it's open.
Speedway Christmas is located at Charlotte Motor Speedway. The prices vary based on the day of the week you attend as well as the type of vehicle you drive. There is also an option to purchase an Express Lane ticket to avoid some of the wait. Learn more on the official website for the Charlotte Speedway Christmas lights: Charlotte Motor Speedway including the dates and times the lights display and Christmas village will be open this season.
For more ways to get into the festive spirit of the season, head to these dreamy Christmas towns in North Carolina! And speaking of Christmas, be sure to check out our ultimate gift-giving guide for all the travel enthusiasts on your list this season.
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