Downtown Roanoke Rapids is a charming, small town in North Carolina that becomes an old-fashioned Christmas town around this time of year. From the glamorous, twinkling lights on residences and businesses to organizing and donating to toy and food drives, you will feel love from these people as you enter their heartwarming place. Christmas on the Avenue will feature seasonal holiday events presented by Main Street Roanoke Rapids, Roanoke Rapids Parks and Recreation, and other local businesses throughout the season. The holiday fun kicks off on Friday, Dec. 1, 2023, offering activities in a few different locations. Let's see what the folks are planning for this exciting Roanoke Rapids Christmas.
Downtown Roanoke Rapids normally looks like this.
But around Christmastime, hold onto your hats, because the generous business owners spend extra money to decorate their buildings for the holidays.
With the contribution of the hardworking city employees, it all adds up to a magical holiday. Just look at that yuletide glow at this Roanoke Rapids Christmas!
On Dec. 1 at 6 p.m., a Christmas tree lighting ceremony will take place at Centennial Park and Roanoke Avenue, offering free hayrides, food trucks, a Beer and Wine Garden, gorgeous lights, and luminaries.
The Santa Square Marketplace will take place from 5:00 to 9:00 p.m. at 949 Roanoke Ave. featuring hand-crafted gift items, such as art, clothing, crystals, and yummy baked goods.
And 1026 Urban Green Space will again offer some festive lights and holiday activities.
Santa will linger around reading love letters at the Green Space at this Christmas festival in Roanoke Rapids.
In addition to the letters-to-Santa station, this cool space will be equipped with such activities as ornament-making, a selfie station, and a visit from the green ole' Grinch.
Afterward, head across the street to the Halifax County Arts Council where an arts and crafts event with live music awaits the children.
On your way there, notice the beautiful Christmas lights cheering you on and help support the local businesses by doing some shopping.
Stephens Outlet is the premier local flooring business for the Roanoke Valley, offering a wide variety of carpet, luxury vinyl tile, and more.
If you need an exquisite holiday gown for a great price, The V is the answer.
This is the shopping destination for fashion- and price-conscious customers.
The Quality Shop is an elegant, local icon for ladies who love to shop, offering the latest trends and lovely customer service.
Shop for a cause at Lily's Boutique, an important outreach business on The Avenue, where you can find beautiful inexpensive items at this resale store.
All proceeds benefit Transforming Lives & Restoring Hope Inc.
Hannah's Closet Thrift Store is another important nonprofit business on The Avenue. It offers a large selection of treasures, such as jewelry, housewares, vintage and second-hand clothing, art, and pocketbooks.
All proceeds go toward helping survivors of domestic violence
Rivertown Home is one of the warmest places you will ever go, offering an endless and eclectic selection of unique, one-of-a-kind finds, mixed in with high-end home furnishings, home decor, and gifts.
Even the employees are filled with the Christmas spirit at The Mill Coffee and Eatery, where the roasted red pepper soup is so creamy and delicious, you'll go back for more, but especially for the outstanding, sweet service, ice cream, and desserts.
And look for the heartwarming beef stew coming to ward off the winter chill.
Surely there are more events taking place in downtown Roanoke Rapids at Christmastime, so stay tuned by visiting the Main Street Roanoke Rapids Facebook Page. And while you're at it, learn about Historic Halifax, right down the road. Its second annual Yuletide by Lanternlight also takes place on Dec. 1, 2023, a candlelight tour that starts with a magical horse-drawn wagon ride. If you visit either place, please share your experiences in the comments below. Consider extending your stay in a cozy, waterfront Lake Gaston Vrbo as a gift to yourself.
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