Charlotte’s holiday season starts early this year. The Southern Christmas Show returns to The Park Expo and Conference Center, 800 Briar Creek Road, from Wednesday, November 11, through Sunday, November 22, 2026, filling the halls with twelve days of holiday shopping, decorated trees and festive family fun.
Shoppers can wander the enchanting Olde Towne village, where charming storefronts overflow with gifts, and stroll down Christmas Tree Lane to admire freshly cut North Carolina evergreens dressed up by local designers. Artisans and crafters from across the country show and sell treasures you will not find anywhere else, from handmade jewelry and cozy clothing to paintings, ornaments and entertaining toys, while the Décor Competition and designer displays serve up fresh ideas for your own holiday home.
Families will find plenty to love, too. The Tiny Trains roll through intricate miniature villages and country scenes, Santa is on hand for photos and holiday wishes, and the Holiday Morsels stands serve piping-hot strudel, melt-in-your-mouth cookies and other seasonal treats. Grown-ups can also sample North Carolina wines at the NC Wine Pavilion.
The show opens on Veterans Day, Wednesday, November 11, from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Thursday through Saturday hours are 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Sunday through Wednesday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Early Bird VIP shopping runs Saturday, November 14, from 8 to 10 a.m. General parking is $12, valet parking is $25, and group tickets for 20 or more are $16 per person in advance. For Happy City News readers, it is the happiest way to start the season in Charlotte.
Photo: Shoppers browse a festive vendor booth at the Southern Christmas Show. Photo courtesy of the Southern Christmas Show official website.
