The Carolina Holiday Light Spectacular returns for its fourth year on Thursday, November 28, at Ballantyne’s Backyard. This year, the event will bring back its half-mile magical experience of light show and a new Winter Wonderland Carnival for its attendees.
Highlights
- Thousands of visitors will attend the Carolina Holiday Light Spectacular, as it has become a part of their family tradition.
- New Winter Wonderland Carnival with rides, games, and food will enhance the experience.
- Tickets are on a first-come, first-served basis, so people are advised to secure their spot at the earliest.
Fourth Carolina Holiday Light Spectacular Returns in November
The Carolina Holiday Light Spectacular will return to Ballantyne’s Backyard, starting the Thanksgiving weekend and running from Friday, November 28, through Monday, December 30, 2025. It is the fourth year of this spectacular holiday tradition.
The event brings holiday magic, memory-making moments, and more than a million lights to life. Thousands of families attend the festival each year, and organizers expect another strong turnout in 2025. Visitors can enjoy food trucks, local vendors, and festive treats throughout the festival.
Events and The Winter Wonderland Carnival
The month-long festival offers everything from dazzling light trails to interactive fun. Some of the returning attractions this year include:
- A half-mile walking trail featuring 40 percent more light displays and dazzling new scenes.
- The glowing walk-through Ice Castle and Princess Carriage.
- Frosty’s Fun Land with real snow and the illuminated Elf Playground.
- Magical interactive wand elements.
- Santa Claus will make nightly appearances through December 23.
- Life-sized snow globes and performances by ballerinas and live entertainers on select evenings.
- The Holiday Village features charming local boutiques, a changing lineup of food trucks, and festive drinks to warm both hands and spirits.
The biggest new attraction of the season, included with general admission, is the Winter Wonderland Carnival. It features the Sooper Jet kiddie coaster, the Bear Affair spinning ride, and a rapid slide sure to delight guests of all ages.
The classic Ferris wheel will elevate the fun for visitors with a $20 add-on. From kid-friendly rides to classic holiday fun, the Winter Wonderland Carnival delivers festive excitement for all ages.
Schools can join the Light Up the Schools Program, a fundraising initiative that brings holiday magic to students and families. Each participating school is assigned a unique code, which entitles it to a 10% discount on ticket purchases for parents, teachers, and community members.
Venue Details and Tickets
The venue for the Carolina Holiday Light Spectacular is at 11611 North Community House Road, Charlotte. The festival location will remain closed on December 25, 2025.
Free on-site parking is available for all attendees. The festival timings are from 5:30 pm to 10 pm. The hours will differ on Christmas Eve (December 24) as the event will wrap up at 7:30 pm.
Tickets are available now and are expected to sell quickly, so early booking is recommended.
- General admission:
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- Starting at $10 (Monday – Thursday, 8 to 10 p.m.)
- $15 from 5:30 to 8 p.m., Monday – Thursday, and 8 to 10 p.m., Friday – Sunday
- $20 from 5:30 to 8 p.m., Friday – Sunday
- $25 for Any Night General Admission tickets (these are limited and will sell out)
- VIP admission: $39, includes a keepsake mug with bottomless hot chocolate, access to HO HO Glow Lounge & Bar, private restrooms, and a dedicated entrance.
- Add-on experiences:
- Magical Snowflake Wand – $20
- Winter Wonderland Carnival Rides – $20
People can easily upgrade to VIP admission for a truly special night out and to skip the lines. All festival pathways are now paved for a smoother, stroller- and wheelchair-friendly experience.
