Date/Time
Date(s) - 12/29/2024 - 01/22/2025
5:30 pm - 10:00 pm
Categories No Categories
Carolina Holiday Light Spectacular is back and brighter than ever! From December 5 – 29, this beloved annual event will once again transform Ballantyne’s Backyard into a dazzling wonderland, featuring an outdoor half-mile walking trail adorned with over a million spectacular lights, larger-than-life holiday scenes, and festive music that promises to enchant visitors of all ages.
After captivating over 52,000 visitors from across the region last December, this year’s event is set to be even more magical with several exciting new features and enhancements designed to elevate the visitor experience. Families can look forward to new kids’ playground areas that provide children with a fun and engaging space. The light castle, a stunning 30-foot by 40-foot structure that visitors can walk through and explore, immersing themselves in a magical, illuminated world, is a standout addition to the event.
With 30% more lights and expanded displays compared to last year, the event promises to be more breathtaking and vibrant than ever. Additionally, all pathways have been upgraded to concrete or decking for improved safety and accessibility, making them suitable for scooters, strollers, and wheelchairs, though some inclines are present.
Fan favorites are returning to the Carolina Holiday Light Spectacular, promising excitement and delight for guests of all ages. Thrill-seekers can once again experience the rush of the Alpine Avalanche Snow Tube Slide. At the same time, those looking for a bit of magic can explore interactive wand elements that reveal hidden surprises along the trail.
The charming Holiday Village will be bustling with boutiques, shops, and rotating food trucks, offering seasonal treats and unique gifts. Little ones will have plenty to enjoy with activities like a Moon Bounce and other fun attractions. And, of course, no holiday celebration would be complete without a visit from Santa, who will be making nightly appearances through December 23. On select evenings, the festive atmosphere will be enhanced by special performances from ballerinas and other entertainers, adding a touch of elegance and wonder to the experience.
Ticket Information:
Event hours typically run from 5:30 to 10 pm, with variations on select dates. Please refer to ncholidaylights.com for specific times and holiday closures.
- General Admission: Starting at $10 (Monday – Thursday, 8 – 10 pm)
- $15 from 5:30 – 8 pm, Monday – Thursday and 8 – 10 pm, Friday – Sunday
- $20 from 5:30 – 8 pm, Friday – Sunday
- $25 for Any Night General Admission tickets
- Free parking is available
- VIP Admission: $39 (Valid Monday to Sunday). Includes a souvenir Hot Chocolate Mug with bottomless hot chocolate, access to the VIP Lodge & Bar, VIP Washrooms, and a VIP Entrance.
Add-On Experiences:
- The Alpine Avalanche Snow Tube Slide: Unlimited slides for only $12.
- Magical Snowflake Wand: Interact with select scenes throughout the event for $20.
The Carolina Holiday Light Spectacular will run from December 5 to 29, opening nightly from 5:30 pm to 10 pm at Ballantyne’s Backyard in Charlotte, NC. Advance tickets are strongly encouraged, as they are first come, first served, and some dates and times will sell out quickly.
Schools are invited to join the ‘Light Up The Schools Program’ to raise funds while enjoying a magical holiday experience. Each participating school is given a unique code that provides a 10% discount on ticket purchases for parents, teachers, and community members. In addition, schools receive a 10% commission on all ticket sales made using their exclusive code.
