Your Rowan Holiday Guide, Part 2: Festivities, Family Fun & Christmas Cheer

The holidays are a time to make memories — and there’s no better place to celebrate than right here in Rowan County! From heartwarming family traditions to twinkling winter festivals, every corner of our community shines with Christmas cheer.

Whether you’re snapping photos with Santa, sipping cocoa by the lake, or hopping aboard a train, this is your guide to all the can’t-miss festivities happening across Rowan County this season.

🚂 THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride – N.C. Transportation Museum

1 Samuel Spencer Dr., Spencer, NC 28159 | November 7–December 23 (select dates)

“All aboard!” The N.C. Transportation Museum once again transforms into a magical holiday destination for THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride.

Set to the beloved movie soundtrack, families will enjoy hot chocolate and cookies while listening to a reading of The Polar Express on board a real train. The ride ends at the “North Pole,” where Santa greets each child and gifts them a sleigh bell — the first gift of Christmas!

This event sells out every year, so book tickets early at nctransportationmuseum.org.

❄️ Faith Frosty Fest

Downtown Faith, NC | Saturday, November 29 | 11 a.m.–7 p.m.

Bring the whole family to Faith Frosty Fest for a full day of holiday fun! Enjoy live music, local vendors, delicious food, and festive games throughout the day.

The highlight? The beloved Golf Cart Parade, followed by Christmas carols, community cheer, and a Tree Lighting Ceremony to close the evening.

It’s small-town charm and Christmas spirit all rolled into one magical day!

🎄 China Grove’s Festival of Trees 

210 Swink St | December 4 – January 1 | Trees will be lit nightly from dusk until 10 p.m.

A brand-new holiday tradition is taking root in China Grove! The First Annual Festival of Trees will turn Swink Street into a glowing winter wonderland all season long.

Local businesses, schools, churches, and community groups are coming together to decorate their own trees — each one uniquely themed and full of holiday spirit. Visitors can stroll through the display each evening to admire the creativity and enjoy the festive lights.

It’s the perfect way to celebrate community, showcase local pride, and make new memories in the heart of China Grove.

🌟 A Walk Through Bethlehem – Mount Hope Church

7004 Old Concord Rd., Salisbury, NC 28146 | December 5–7 | 5:30–8:30 p.m. | Free Admission

Step back in time and experience the story of Christmas at A Walk Through Bethlehem. Journey through a recreation of ancient Bethlehem — complete with bustling markets, Roman guards, townspeople, and a live nativity.

This free, immersive event is a beautiful reminder of the true meaning of the season. Golf cart transportation is available, and all are welcome.

A Rowan County tradition that captures the spirit of Christmas.

🎅 Holiday Night Out – Bell Tower Green

120 S. Church St., Salisbury, NC 28144 | Friday, December 5 | Evening event | Free Admission

Downtown Salisbury lights up for the biggest shopping night of the year! Holiday Night Out transforms the streets with snow, twinkling lights, and festive storefronts.

Enjoy free photos with Santa and the Grinch, live performances, and extended hours from local shops and restaurants.

Shop local, take in the holiday magic, and experience downtown Salisbury at its merriest!

​🎄 Winterfest – Town of Spencer

Downtown Spencer, NC | December 5–7 | Times vary

Soak up the sights and sounds of a European-style Christmas market right here in Rowan County! Winterfest in Spencer features a German-inspired marketplace with sparkling lights, festive trees, handmade crafts, and delicious seasonal food.

Enjoy live music, the lighting of the town tree, and skating at Spencer on Ice — plus plenty of family-friendly activities throughout the weekend.

It’s a weekend full of warmth, wonder, and winter joy!

🎄 Christmas in the Village – Historic Gold Hill 

755 St. Stephens Church Rd., Gold Hill, NC 28071 | December 6–7, 13 & 20 | Times vary

Step into a Hallmark movie setting at Christmas in the Village in Historic Gold Hill! The town’s quaint streets and shops are decked out in lights and holiday décor for four festive weekends.

Enjoy hayrides, roasting marshmallows, caroling, hot cocoa, and family fun while you shop for one-of-a-kind gifts from local artisans.

This charming event captures the nostalgia and joy of a classic country Christmas.

🎁 Christmas at the Lake – Granite Lake Park 

143 N. Salisbury GQ Ave., Granite Quarry, NC 28146 | Saturday, December 6 | 3–7 p.m. | Free Admission

Celebrate the holidays by the water at Christmas at the Lake in Granite Quarry! The park transforms into a winter wonderland filled with family games, craft vendors, warm treats, and live music.

Santa will be there to collect toy donations for local families, and the evening wraps up with the Annual Tree Lighting at dusk as part of the Festival of Trees — featuring beautifully decorated trees around the lake.

The F&M Trolley will run from several remote parking lots, making it easy for everyone to join in on the fun!

🔥 Campfire Christmas at the Lake – Lake Corriher Wilderness Park 

265 Tranquil Lake Dr., China Grove, NC 28023 | Saturday, December 13 | 4–6 p.m.

End your holiday season with a cozy outdoor celebration at Campfire Christmas at the Lake.

Gather around the campfire for s’mores, cookies, and cocoa while visiting with Santa, shopping at the General Store, and making kids’ crafts.

It’s the perfect family outing to wrap up a season filled with joy and togetherness — Rowan County style.

Celebrate the Magic of the Season

From dazzling lights and parades to cozy campfires and timeless traditions, Rowan County is bursting with holiday cheer. No matter where you go, you’ll find friendly faces, festive fun, and memories waiting to be made.

Continue your holiday adventure:
Part 1 – Parades, Lights & Tree Lightings »
Part 3 – Holiday Arts, Theatre & Performances »

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