Looking for festive ways to stay active outdoors this holiday season? LKN Connect has you covered! While I normally highlight one of our amazing local trails or greenways in our area, this time of year offers unique walking activities that only come around once a year! Whether you are looking for ways to keep visiting relatives entertained, or just wanting to soak up the delights of the season yourself, don’t miss these unique events that are happening only for a limited time
Owl Prowl & S’mores
Select Fridays, from December 6th– January 31st , 6-7:30pm. $25-$35, ages 10+
Experience the Raptor Trail like never before! This unique guided tour will give you a closer look at these beautiful and intriguing nocturnal creatures, and includes evening-specific activities, complete with s’mores. Purchase tickets in advance at https://carolinaraptorcenter.org/.
Tues-Sun, from Nov 29th– Dec 29th, closed Dec 23-25 & Dec 30-Jan1
See website for ticket sales and Planning Your Visit
The Daniel Stowe Botanical Gardens come alive this time of year and is sure to enhance your holiday spirit! Highlights include a cozy outdoor fire, tasty treats, warm beverages, and unique gifts at the Garden Store. New for 2024, you will find trackless train rides, visits with Santa, and even an adults-only speakeasy with seasonal cocktails! See https://dsbg.com/ for tickets, advance tickets are highly recommended.
Available mid-Nov through mid-February
See website for Planning Your Visit – No WWC pass or reservation required
Winter at the Whitewater Center is chock full of outdoor activities! You may have known about the ice skating, but did you know there is a new expanded Winter Trail and the Wildwoods obstacle course is illuminated at night? An incredible place for adults and kids alike to enjoy. Go to https://center.whitewater.org/ for more information and to plan your visit.
You will definitely get your steps in at the Light the Knights Festival at Truist field in Charlotte! Snow tubing and ice skating are available as well. Walk the concourse to see the field all lit up! Shopping, food, and fun will keep you moving and staying warm! For more information go to https://www.milb.com/charlotte-knights/ballpark/christmas
At Village Park through Dec 30th
www.kannapolisnc.gov/christmas
Our neighbors in Kannapolis have created an incredible outdoor event for all to enjoy! The Celebration of Lights includes over 250,000 lights! Walk through the park to enjoy the light displays, ride an exquisite carousel or purchase a ticket for the Winterland Express train that takes you on a tour of the lights. S’mores, visits with Santa, and singing bears are some of the other activities available. Plan your visit at kannapolisnc.gov/winterland-express.