Smarty Scoop on Weekend Events: December 20-22

written by CSP Team December 18, 2013

Smarty Scoop is proudly sponsored by Discovery Place, Discovery Place KIDS – Huntersville and The Charlotte Nature Museum.

FRIDAY, December 20

The Chuckles Quartet
Birkdale Village Center Court
Sam Furr Road & Birkdale Commons Pkwy, Huntersville, NC (704) 895-8744
December 13 – December 31, All ages, Starting at 9:00am – 10:00pm every hour, Free
Summary: Chuckles, Grizzly Gus, Blu and Honey Bear perform every day, every hour on the hour from 9am – 10pm for 35 minutes! *Please note: The Chuckles Quartet is unable to perform if it is raining.

Davidson Community Players Presents: Miracle on 34th Street
Armour Street Theatre
307 Armour Street, Davidson, NC (704) 892-7953
December 5 – December 22, See website for days and times, All ages, $20
Summary: Based on the classic film, Miracle on 34th Street features a single mother and her daughter who wonder if a department store Santa might be the real Mr. Claus. Complete with sound effects and cleverly scripted commercials, DCP will transform the Armour Street Theater into a radio studio and invite the audience to become part of the magic. The actors playing multiple parts perform a radio version of the story. The universal theme of ‘hope in times of uncertainty’ makes Miracle on 34th Street one show not to miss!

Christmas at the Library
Billy Graham Library
4330 Westmont Drive, Charlotte, NC (704) 401-3200
December 2 – December 23, Mon-Thurs., 5-9pm; Fri.-Sat., 5-10pm, All ages, $10 for parking; $3-$7 for carriage rides
Summary: See a live nativity that offers a glimpse into the wonder of the first Christmas. (Begins at 5 p.m.)
Enjoy horse-drawn carriage rides ($7 for adults, $3 for children 12 and under) through beautiful light displays. (Begins at 5 p.m.)
Hear heartwarming sounds of joyful carolers and festive Christmas music. (Begins at 5 p.m.)
Don’t miss the Christmas story time for kids of all ages. (Begins at 5 p.m.)
Come early and pet the animals! (Noon–2 p.m.)

Huntersville Ice Rink
Downtown Huntersville
December 13 – December 15, Fri., 10am-8pm; Sat., 4-8pm; Sun., 10am-5pm, All ages, Free
Summary: What better way to get into the holiday spirit than outdoor ice skating…

Nutcracker
Belk Theater
130 N Tyron Street, Charlotte, NC (704) 372-1000
December 13 – December 22, Thurs-7:30pm; Fri-7:30pm; Sat-Sun 2pm;7pm
All ages, $25-$90, Donations Accepted
Summary: Nutcracker celebrates the sights and sounds of the holiday season! Come along for this holiday voyage featuring choreography by Artistic Director Jean-Pierre Bonnefoux, live music from the Charlotte Symphony and over 100 performers. Be there as the Nutcracker Prince triumphs over the evil Mouse King and as the Sugar Plum Fairy entertains Clara, her Nutcracker Prince and the audience with dazzling dancing sweets.

Christmas Town USA
McAdenville, NC
December 2 – December 26, Monday-Friday, 5:30pm – 9:30pm; Saturday – Sunday 5:30pm – 11:00pm, All ages, Cost: Free.
Summary: This tradition dates back to 1956 and started with nine decorated trees. Today there are nearly 400 decorated trees and it’s one of the most beautiful Christmas light displays you will ever see.

2013 Holidays at the Ballantyne Hotel and Lodge
10000 Ballantyne Commons Parkway, Charlotte, NC (704) 248-4055
December 4 – 29, see website for days, times and cost, All ages
Gingerbread Lane
Enjoy an enchanting collection of gingerbread creations throughout the holiday season. From Thursday, December 12 through Sunday December 29, the creative display is open daily from 9am to 5pm. Attendees may vote on their favorite gingerbread creation with a $1 minimum donation per vote. All proceeds will benefit Levine Children’s Hospital, dedicated to caring for the physical and emotional needs of children and their families.
Hot Chocolate & Toddies
Get cozy at the Veranda Friday – Sunday, December 6 through December 29, 2pm – 5pm throughout December. Enjoy hot chocolate with the option to add Godiva or any other liqueurs along with a selection of garnishes. The cost is $6 and $9 with liqueur.
Holiday Afternoon Tea
Join us for Holiday Afternoon Tea in the Lobby throughout December. A live harpist will be playing for your enjoyment during the hours of holiday tea. Holiday Tea includes a variety of seasonal loose leaf tea blends from Harney & Sons Teas and a selection of savory tea sandwiches, traditional confectionaries and holiday treats. Tea is served Wednesday – Sunday, December 4 through Sunday December 29, 1pm – 5pm. The cost is $32 for adults and $15 for children, ages 5-12, and complimentary for children ages 4 and under (plus tax & gratuity). A champagne tea is available for $40 per person. Reservations are required at 704.248.4100. Not available on Christmas Day.

Leonard Bearstein Symphony Orchestra
Founders Hall
100 N. Tryon Street, Charlotte, NC (704) 716-8469
November 25 – December 27, for schedule click here, All ages, Free.
Summary: One of Charlotte’s favorite traditions returns to Founders Hall – Leonard Bearstein Symphony Orchestra. The beloved Bears begin their concerts earlier this year, giving families an opportunity to visit during Thanksgiving weekend.

Miracle on 34th Street
McColl Family Theatre (ImagineOn)
300 E 7th Street, NC (704) 973-2780
November 22 – December 22, See website for schedule, 7:30, Ages 6+, $12+
Summary: Celebrate the holidays with this faithful adaptation of the classic 1947 film. When a white-bearded gentleman claiming to be THE real Santa Claus emerges in New York City, he spreads a wave of love throughout the city, fosters camaraderie between rival department stores Macy’s and Gimbels, and convinces a single mother, her skeptical young daughter and the entire state of New York that Santa Claus is no myth. The whole family will love this funny, poignant take on the cherished story.

The Ice Park
The Speedpark at Concord Mills
8461 Concord Mills Blvd. , Concord, NC (704)-KARTING
December 20 – January 20, See website for details, All ages, $12
Summary: Bringing North Carolina families, race fans and tourists an outdoor ice skating rink located at The Speedpark Concord Mills. This holiday season when shopping for gifts, take time to chill on ice and go ice skating at The Icepark. Located directly behind Concord Mills at The Speedpark, it’s the perfect pit stop with ice skating, go karts, mini golf and more for you and your family. The Icepark will be open the week before Thanksgiving thru out the holidays into January. Groups, holiday parties and birthday parties are welcome.Ice Skating tickets are just $12 and include skate rentals. Packages with mini golf and unlimited go karts are available.

Holiday on Ice
NASCAR Hall of Fame
400 E. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Charlotte, NC (704) 277-2636
November 22, 2013 – January 5, 2014, Wed-Fri,5pm-10pm; Sat., 10am-10pm; Sun., 10am-7pm, All ages, $9-$12 admission + $3 skate rentals
Summary: Holiday on Ice continues it’s tradition of bringing Charlotte the coolest place in the city, an outdoor ice skating rink in the heart of Uptown. It’s a holiday tradition for us to continue with you, your friends, and family. And we hope to see you there! We are located at the corner of MLK Blvd and Brevard on The NASCAR Hall of Fame Plaza.

Kid’s Christmas Party
Peek-a-boo Couture
19420 Jetton Rd. Suite 104, Cornelius, NC (980) 226-0267
December 20, 3:00pm – 6:00pm, All ages, $8 in advance, $10 at the door
Summary: Come join us for games, face painting, Christmas balloons, glitter tattoos, Win Prizes and MUCH MORE!

Holiday at the Garden
Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden
6500 New Hope Road, Belmont, NC (740) 825-4490
November 22 – December 31, 12:00pm – 9:00 pm, lights on at 5pm, All ages, $6-$12, children under 6 are free
Summary: Organic rhythms of nature and abundant fascinations come together to create a new holiday harmony this year at Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden. Explore the special tapestry we’ve woven–a natural winter wonderland that’s like no other. Our contemporary yet elegant lighting display will brighten your holidays and our fire pit will keep you and your loved ones warm while toasting marshmallows and making s’mores. The traditions continue in the Visitor Pavilion accented with natural displays — where the Orchid Tree stands sentinel over the Great Hall abuzz with Christmas cheer, as children visit with Santa (Thurs. – Sun.) or make a nature-based crafts with their family. All this and more await as the Holiday tradition continues at Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden.

Discovery Place
301 N. Tryon Street, Charlotte, NC (704) 372-6261
Summary: Step into a world where science is brought to life through interactive exhibits and explosive experiments during daily programs. Connect with the past and visit the future with groundbreaking exhibitions, larger-than-life IMAX Dome films and hands on activities that let you explore more. Plan your visit today. Click on the links below for detailed information on special events, featured exhibitions, featured shows and IMAX.

Featured Exhibitions: Animal Grossology, Fantastic Frogs
For more information on all featured exhibitions and exhibitions click here.
Featured Shows: Sub-Zero, Fired Up!, Sam Skunk and The Case of The Amulet of Midas
For more information on all featured shows and shows click here.
IMAX: Flight of the Butterflies, Jerusalem
For more information on all featured movies and showtimes click here.

Discovery Place Kids – Huntersville
105 Gilead Road, Huntersville, NC (704) 372-6261
Summary: Explore the theme of I CAN at Discovery Place KIDS-Huntersville. The children’s museum features developmentally-appropriate experiences that encourage imagination and offer the opportunity to build confidence while testing skills by trying new things. The exhibits, themed around a small town, allow children to learn through play.

Theme Areas: I CAN
For a complete description of all nine theme areas click here.
Featured Shows and Shows:
For a complete listing of all featured shows and shows click here.
Current and Upcoming Events:
For all current and upcoming events click here.

Charlotte Nature Museum
1658 Sterling Road, Charlotte, NC (704) 372-6261
Summary: Bring little ones for just an hour or the whole day and experience wildlife through live animal exhibits and interactive education programs. The Museum is easy to navigate with fun surprises around every corner. Kids can roam The Great Hall and visit Beginnings, an area filled with young animals and information on their lifecycles.

Featured Exhibitions & Exhibits: Beginnings, Fort Wild, Butterfly Pavilion, Our Big Backyard, Paw Paw Nature Trail, Creature Cavern, Insect Alley, Peetie’s Place
For complete details on exhibitions and exhibits click here.
Featured Shows: Don’t Make a Pet of Me, Turtles on the Twos, Autumn Woods, Animal Feedings & Encounters
For a complete schedule of show times click here.

Foodtruck Friday
Southend
1613 Camden Road Charlotte, NC
December 20, 5:00pm – 9:00pm, All ages, Free
Summary: Every Friday night, Charlotte’s favorite food trucks gather on the lot at the corner of Park and Camden in the Historic South End. These aren’t the roach coaches of yesteryear! The nationwide revolution of the food truck industry has hit Charlotte, and we’ve got an ever-growing community of trucks that cater to your every taste. From burgers to tacos to soul food to cupcakes to ice cream and everything in between…there’s something for everyone. Meeting every Friday night since February 2012, Food Truck Fridays have taken the city by storm. Periodically featuring entertainment as well, the crowds have swelled to over 1,000 each week. We’re family and dog-friendly, too! So bring a chair, bring a blanket, BYOB, bring the kids, take the dog…it’s a neighborhood night out in a relaxed, casual atmosphere. Most of the trucks accept credit cards as well as cash. Accessible by public transportation…take the light rail to Bland Station. A good time and great food are guaranteed!

SATURDAY, December 21

Holiday Fun at Promenade on Providence
Promenade on Providence
Providence Road & 485
December 14, 12:00pm, All ages, Free
Summary: Tis the season for free holiday fun! Visit Promenade on Providence during December for free holiday family fun. Bring the entire family and enjoy the sounds of roaming Dickens Carolers and take a trip around Promenade on a horse-drawn carriage. Children can visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus roaming the center and also enjoy a balloon creation from the Promenade balloon artist.

A Commedia Christmas Carol
Wells Fargo Playhouse
300 E. 7th Street, NC (704) 416-4600
December 14 – December 29, 11:00am, Ages 5+, $14+
Summary: When Ebenezer Scrooge is visited by his old friend Jacob Marley, a nostalgic adventure of endearing ghosts and yuletide escapades awaits. Will he find redemption from his miserly ways in time to join in the holiday merriment? Capture the spirit of the season, cleverly told in the Commedia dell’arte style by CTC’s Tarradiddle Players. The whole family will enjoy this timeless story.

Christmas at the Library
Billy Graham Library
4330 Westmont Drive, Charlotte, NC (704) 401-3200
December 2 – December 23, Mon-Thurs., 5-9pm; Fri.-Sat., 5-10pm, All ages, $10 for parking; $3-$7 for carriage rides
Summary:
See a live nativity that offers a glimpse into the wonder of the first Christmas. (Begins at 5 p.m.)
Enjoy horse-drawn carriage rides ($7 for adults, $3 for children 12 and under) through beautiful light displays. (Begins at 5 p.m.)
Hear heartwarming sounds of joyful carolers and festive Christmas music. (Begins at 5 p.m.)
Don’t miss the Christmas story time for kids of all ages. (Begins at 5 p.m.)
Come early and pet the animals! (Noon–2 p.m.)

2013 Holidays at the Ballantyne Hotel and Lodge
10000 Ballantyne Commons Parkway, Charlotte, NC (704) 248-4055
December 4 – 29, see website for days, times and cost, All ages
Summary:
Gingerbread Lane
Enjoy an enchanting collection of gingerbread creations throughout the holiday season. From Thursday, December 12 through Sunday December 29, the creative display is open daily from 9am to 5pm. Attendees may vote on their favorite gingerbread creation with a $1 minimum donation per vote. All proceeds will benefit Levine Children’s Hospital, dedicated to caring for the physical and emotional needs of children and their families.

Hot Chocolate & Toddies
Get cozy at the Veranda Friday – Sunday, December 6 through December 29, 2pm – 5pm throughout December. Enjoy hot chocolate with the option to add Godiva or any other liqueurs along with a selection of garnishes. The cost is $6 and $9 with liqueur.

Holiday Afternoon Tea
Join us for Holiday Afternoon Tea in the Lobby throughout December. A live harpist will be playing for your enjoyment during the hours of holiday tea. Holiday Tea includes a variety of seasonal loose leaf tea blends from Harney & Sons Teas and a selection of savory tea sandwiches, traditional confectionaries and holiday treats. Tea is served Wednesday – Sunday, December 4 through Sunday December 29, 1pm – 5pm. The cost is $32 for adults and $15 for children, ages 5-12, and complimentary for children ages 4 and under (plus tax & gratuity). A champagne tea is available for $40 per person. Reservations are required at 704.248.4100. Not available on Christmas Day.

The Chuckles Quartet
Birkdale Village Center Court
Intersection of Sam Furr Rd. & Birkdale Commons Pkwy, Huntersville, NC (704) 895-8744
December 13 – December 31, All ages, Starting at 9:00am – 10:00pm every hour, Free
Summary: Chuckles, Grizzly Gus, Blu and Honey Bear perform every day, every hour on the hour from 9am – 10pm for 35 minutes! *Please note: The Chuckles Quartet is unable to perform if it is raining.

Leonard Bearstein Symphony Orchestra
Founders Hall
100 N. Tryon St., Charlotte, NC (704) 716-8469
November 25 – December 27, for schedule click here, All ages, Free.
Summary: One of Charlotte’s favorite traditions returns to Founders Hall – Leonard Bearstein Symphony Orchestra. The beloved Bears begin their concerts earlier this year, giving families an opportunity to visit during Thanksgiving weekend.

Holiday at the Garden
Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden
6500 New Hope Road, Belmont, NC (740) 825-4490
November 22 to December 31, 12:00pm – 9:00 pm, lights on at 5pm, All ages, $6-$12, children under 6 are free
Summary: Organic rhythms of nature and abundant fascinations come together to create a new holiday harmony this year at Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden. Explore the special tapestry we’ve woven–a natural winter wonderland that’s like no other. Our contemporary yet elegant lighting display will brighten your holidays and our fire pit will keep you and your loved ones warm while toasting marshmallows and making s’mores. The traditions continue in the Visitor Pavilion accented with natural displays — where the Orchid Tree stands sentinel over the Great Hall abuzz with Christmas cheer, as children visit with Santa (Thurs. – Sun.) or make a nature-based crafts with their family. All this and more await as the Holiday tradition continues at Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden.

Miracle on 34th Street
McColl Family Theatre (ImagineOn)
300 E 7th Street, NC (704) 973-2780
November 22 to December 22, See website for schedule, 7:30, Ages 6+, $12+
Summary: Celebrate the holidays with this faithful adaptation of the classic 1947 film. When a white-bearded gentleman claiming to be THE real Santa Claus emerges in New York City, he spreads a wave of love throughout the city, fosters camaraderie between rival department stores Macy’s and Gimbels, and convinces a single mother, her skeptical young daughter and the entire state of New York that Santa Claus is no myth. The whole family will love this funny, poignant take on the cherished story.

Holiday on Ice
NASCAR Hall of Fame
400 E. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Charlotte, NC (704) 277-2636
November 22, 2013 to January 5, 2014, Wed-Fri,5pm-10pm; Sat., 10am-10pm; Sun., 10am-7pm, All ages, $9-$12 admission + $3 skate rentals
Summary: Holiday on Ice continues it’s tradition of bringing Charlotte the coolest place in the city, an outdoor ice skating rink in the heart of Uptown. It’s a holiday tradition for us to continue with you, your friends, and family. And we hope to see you there! We are located at the corner of MLK Blvd and Brevard on The NASCAR Hall of Fame Plaza.

Christmas with the Charlotte Children’s Choir and Charlotte Bronze http://charlottechildrenschoir.org/
Myers Park Baptist Church
1900 Queens Road, Charlotte, NC (704) 374-1892
December 21, 7:00pm, All ages, $10-$12
Summary: The perfect way to sit back and let the glorious sounds of the children’s voices and the brilliant ringing of the bells put you in to the holiday spirit. This concert will feature familiar music of Christmas arranged by nationally known director/composer Tim Waugh and founding director of Charlotte Bronze. A treasure in the Queens City that needs to be a part of your holiday celebration!

Speedway Christmas
Charlotte Motor Speedway
5555 Concord Pkwy. S., Concord, NC (704) 455-3200
November 23 to December 30, 6:00pm -10:00pm, All ages, $20/vehicle
Summary: See more than 3 million Christmas lights while driving on the track and enjoy the Christmas Village in the infield, plus movie nights on the world’s largest HDTV every Friday and Saturday night during the show.

SUNDAY, December 15

Christmas at the Library
Billy Graham Library
4330 Westmont Drive, Charlotte, NC (704) 401-3200
December 2 – December 23, Mon-Thurs., 5-9pm; Fri.-Sat., 5-10pm, All ages, $10 for parking; $3-$7 for carriage rides
Summary:
See a live nativity that offers a glimpse into the wonder of the first Christmas. (Begins at 5 p.m.)
Enjoy horse-drawn carriage rides ($7 for adults, $3 for children 12 and under) through beautiful light displays. (Begins at 5 p.m.)
Hear heartwarming sounds of joyful carolers and festive Christmas music. (Begins at 5 p.m.)
Don’t miss the Christmas story time for kids of all ages. (Begins at 5 p.m.)
Come early and pet the animals! (Noon–2 p.m.)

Holiday on Ice
Holiday on Ice
NASCAR Hall of Fame
400 E. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Charlotte, NC (704) 277-2636
November 22, 2013 to January 5, 2014, Wed-Fri,5pm-10pm; Sat., 10am-10pm; Sun., 10am-7pm, All ages, $9-$12 admission + $3 skate rentals
Summary: Holiday on Ice continues it’s tradition of bringing Charlotte the coolest place in the city, an outdoor ice skating rink in the heart of Uptown. It’s a holiday tradition for us to continue with you, your friends, and family. And we hope to see you there! We are located at the corner of MLK Blvd and Brevard on The NASCAR Hall of Fame Plaza.

Speedway Christmas
Charlotte Motor Speedway
5555 Concord Pkwy. S., Concord, NC (704) 455-3200
November 23 – December 30, 6:00pm -10:00pm, All ages, $20/vehicle
Summary: See more than 3 million Christmas lights while driving on the track and enjoy the Christmas Village in the infield, plus movie nights on the world’s largest HDTV every Friday and Saturday night during the show.

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