Things To Do in Charlotte This Weekend: December 12-December 14
The Charlotte weekend events in December 2025 offer a full lineup of festive entertainment, from classic holiday storytelling to enchanting ballet and bright, family-friendly celebrations.
The Charlotte weekend events in December 2025 offer a full lineup of festive entertainment, from classic holiday storytelling to enchanting ballet and bright, family-friendly celebrations. With shows such as "Scrooge! The Musical," "The Nutcracker," and the sparkling WinterFest at Carowinds, the season is packed with ways to enjoy music, tradition, and winter magic.
"Scrooge! The Musical" at Matthews Playhouse
- What: A classic, music-filled journey from misery to redemption
- When: Friday, Dec. 12, 2025, at 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, Dec. 13, 2025, at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.; and Sunday, Dec. 14, 2025, at 2 p.m. (additional dates and times are available through Sunday, Dec. 21, 2025)
- Where: Matthews Playhouse, 100 E. McDowell St., Matthews
- Cost: Adults Premium $30, Zone 2 $26, Zone 3 $23; Senior, Military, Students, Children Premium $27, Zone 2 $23, Zone 3 $20
"Scrooge! The Musical" returns with its joyful, heartfelt retelling of Charles Dickens' beloved classic. The show follows Ebenezer Scrooge, a hardened miser, as he is upended on Christmas Eve by three spirits who guide him through pivotal moments from his past, present, and future. With lively music, memorable characters, and a message of compassion and renewal, this production brings timeless holiday themes to the stage.
"The Nutcracker" by Charlotte Ballet
- What: A magical, music-filled holiday ballet tradition
- When: Friday, Dec. 12, 2025, at 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, Dec. 13, 2025, at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.; and Sunday, Dec. 14, 2025, at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. (additional days and times are available through Dec. 21, 2025)
- Where: Charlotte Ballet, 701 N. Tryon St., Charlotte
- Cost: Tickets start at $35
"The Nutcracker" by Charlotte Ballet is a delightful and beautiful holiday experience. Enjoy Tchaikovsky's music played live by the Charlotte Symphony Orchestra, along with the ballet based on the story of Clara's magical trip from her calm Christmas Eve celebration to the magical worlds of snow and candy. The costumes, sets, and sheer joy of "The Nutcracker" create a wonderful memory for all viewers during the holiday season.
WinterFest at Carowinds
- What: A dazzling, family-friendly holiday celebration
- When: Friday, Dec. 12 through Sunday, Dec. 14, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. (additional dates are available through Saturday, Jan. 3, 2026)
- Where: Carowinds, 14523 Carowinds Blvd., Charlotte
- Cost: Included in park admission, which starts at $32
WinterFest at Carowinds offers guests the opportunity to experience the park decorated with millions of sparkling lights and decorations. The event also offers fun shows, entertainment, holiday music, seasonal treats, and kid-friendly rides that capture the spirit of the holidays. Some of the additional magical moments include ice skating, cookie decorating, photos with Santa, and an amazing nightly parade.
Other Events
Charlotte's holiday season comes alive with festive markets, outdoor winter fun, and music-filled family traditions. From creative shopping experiences to lively cultural outings, the city offers plenty of ways to embrace the spirit of the season. Make sure to explore the variety of weekend activities in Charlotte with your friends and family:
- Mistletoe Market at Camp North End: Saturday, Dec. 13, 2025, from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Camp North End, 300 Camp Road, Charlotte
- Winter at Whitewater: Friday, Dec. 12 through Sunday, Dec. 14, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. at the U.S. National Whitewater Center, 5000 Whitewater Center Parkway, Charlotte
- "Holiday Pops Family": Saturday, Dec. 13, 2025, at 11 a.m. at Knight Theater, 430 S. Tryon St., Charlotte
