There’s something about the holidays in our incredible city that highlight all the things for which Winston-Salem’s known. From our historic roots to our vibrant arts scene and spirit of innovation, our city’s festive events and holiday markets showcase the very best of what makes Winston-Salem so special. Whether it’s celebrating in our charming downtown, enjoying unique local traditions, or experiencing the creative energy of our community, the holidays here are truly one-of-a-kind.
*Some events listed have limited ticket availability, so please check with the event venue before attending to confirm tickets are still available.
Holiday Events
Joy of Christmas Evening Tours
- When: November 28th-December 20th from 6:30-8:45 pm
- Where: Old Salem
- Details: Step into the magic of Old Salem with evening tours on Fridays and Saturdays from Thanksgiving weekend through December 20th, exploring the Miksch House, Vogler House, and Single Brother’s Workshop. Enjoy hands-on activities and storytelling that reveal the traditions of Christmas in Old Salem and transport you to the holiday spirit of the past. Reserve now, as availability is limited, and create unforgettable memories of a historic Christmas celebration.
Home Moravian Church Candle Tea
- When: December 3rd-6th, 11-13th at various times
- Where: Old Salem
- Details: Candle Tea heralds the start of Advent and Christmas for many, drawing thousands each year to the historic Single Brothers House in Old Salem. Guests are welcomed by costumed volunteers and a Moravian brass band, followed by carols on an 18th-century Tannenburg organ, candle-making demonstrations, coffee and sugar cake in the original kitchen, and a viewing of the Salem Putz and nativity scene. This sensory-rich experience immerses visitors in the sights, sounds, and traditions of Moravian Christmas, past and present.
Twin City Santa: TCS x KAD Holiday Gala & Toy Drive
- When: December 13th from 7:00-11:00 pm
- Where: Kaleideum
- Details: This year, Twin City Santa is partnering with Kaleideum After Dark for an adults-night out (21+) with dancing, live music, photos with Santa, drinks & hors d’oeuvres, karaoke and more. In addition to your entry fee of $30 (online), bring an unwrapped toy to support their Toy Drive, which benefits children right here in Forsyth County.
An Enchanted Christmas at Reynolda
- When: December 13th and 17th from 5:30-8:00 pm
- Where: Reynolda House
- Details: This family-friendly, after-hours event is sure to ignite the holiday magic! Take a self-guided tour through the historic house, beautifully decorated to reflect the first Christmas at Reynolda in 1917, with festive tunes playing on the original Aeolian organ. Warm up with a hot chocolate bar and get creative making holiday cards inspired by vintage designs from the Reynolds family collection.
18th Annual Christmas for the City
- When: December 20th from 1:00-6:00 pm
- Where: Benton Convention Center
- Details: Don’t miss this annual citywide Christmas celebration that will feature live music and dancing, international holiday traditions, lots of activities for kids, and a special visit from Santa Claus! It’s a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the diversity of the community and show support for the local nonprofits that work tirelessly year-round. This festive gathering is one holiday tradition that shouldn’t be missed…and the best part? It’s free!
Additional Holiday Events
- November 29th
- Holiday Salem Saturdays Begin at Old Salem; also available every Saturday through Dec. 20th
- December 5th
- Festive Family Friday at Kaleideum
- Holiday Inn at Winston-Salem Theatre Alliance: Ihrie Theatre
- In-Home Holiday Concert with Dominic Armstrong from Piedmont Opera
- A Motown Christmas at Hanesbrands Theatre
- December 6th
- W-S Ambassadors Holiday Parade at Downtown Winston-Salem
- Christmas at Bethabara at Historic Bethabara Park
- Holiday Studio Visit with Artfolios at 629 North Trade Street
- Twas the Night Before Christmas at Winston-Salem Theatre Alliance: Ihrie Theatre; also available Dec. 13 & 20
- Christmas Wrapped in Brass with NC Brass Band at WFU: Brendle Recital Hall
- December 13th
- Handel’s Messiah with the Winston-Salem Symphony at Wait Chapel
- RiverRun Can Film Festival: Screening of How the Grinch Stole Christmas at Marketplace Cinemas: 2095 Peters Creek Parkway (Bring 2 cans to support Samaritan Ministries for entry)
- December 14th
- Craftin’ Around the Christmas Tree with live jazz music from The Matt Kendrick Quartet at Dabble Art Bar,
- December 16th
- Salem Brass Band Holiday Concert: Rejoice the Season! at Calvary Moravian Church
- December 21st
- Sunday School Cocktail Class: Holiday Cocktails at easytalk
December Holiday Markets
Ongoing (Each Saturday until Dec 20th)
- Salem Saturdays at Christmas | Old Salem
December 2nd
- Handcrafted Holiday Showcase | Fairgrounds Farmers
December 6th
- Annual Sawtooth Holiday Market | Milton Rhodes Center for the Arts
- The Moravian Market | Old Salem
- Winston Vintage Market | 675 W. 5th Street
- 5th Annual Sayso & Friends Winter Market | Sayso Coffee
December 7th
- Books & Brews Holiday Market | Fiddlin’ Fish
- Annual Wake Forest Lovefeast | Wait Chapel
December 13th
- German Christmas Market | Körner’s Folly
- Makers Market | West Salem Public House
Christmas Lights
Festival of Lights
- When: Now-January 1st, 6:00-11:00 pm
- Where: Tanglewood Park
- Details: Be a part of the festival’s 34th season and embark on a magical 5-mile journey through stunning light displays, oversized installations, and the festive spirit that fills the crisp night air.
- Bonus: Running of the Lights will start your New Year off right with a race through the Festival of Lights on midnight, December 31st.
A Christmas Carol Holiday Drone Light Show
- When: December 20th at 6:30 pm
- Where: Truist Stadium
- Details: The Dash are offering a second year of their Holiday Drone Light Show. Enjoy a one-of-a-kind display as 500 drones light up the sky, showcasing a festive rendition of A Christmas Carol, in partnership with Celestial. Tickets start at $20.
Vienna Light Orchestra
- When: December 23rd at 3:00 and 7:00 pm
- Where: RJ Reynolds Auditorium
- Details: Surrounded by glowing Christmas trees and the warm light of over two thousand flickering candles, the Vienna Light Orchestra Christmas Tour 2025 brings the magic of the season to life. Experience a breathtaking performance of holiday favorites by world-class musicians and vocalists from around the globe.
Where to Shop Locally
Fiddle & Fig Market
- Where: 107 S. Stratford Road *Online Shopping Available*
- Fantastic Finds: Amazing candles, home decor, furniture, throws
Louie & Honey’s Kitchen
- Where: West End, 401 West End Blvd.
- Fantastic Finds: Baked goods perfect for a gift basket (especially their massive Rice Krispy Treats and unforgettable Amish Cinnamon Rolls). Go downstairs to their curated market for gifts, preserved foods, kitchen wares and clothing.
Camel City Goods Co.
- Where: Online Only
- Fantastic Finds: Apparel and accessories featuring designs inspired by Winston-Salem. Special gifts you can’t find anywhere else.
The Bookhouse
- Where: Reynolda Village, 120 Reynolda Village
- Fantastic Finds: Wide variety of books, calendars, gifts
- Bonus: Enjoy coffee, wine or beer while shopping in this cozy, charming store.
Old Salem Museums & Gardens
- Where: Old Salem, *Online Shopping Available*
- Fantastic Finds: Moravian stars (a local holiday must-have), souvenirs, books.
Piedmont Craftsmen: The Craft Shop
- Where: Downtown, 601 N. Trade Street. *Online Shopping Available*
- Fantastic Finds: A stunning collection of handcrafted works by a variety of Exhibiting Artist Members, featuring a range of media. Perfect for the art-lover on your list.
Just Be
- Where: 131 W 4th Street, Winston-Salem, NC 27101 *Online Shopping Available*
- Fantastic Finds: A unique gift shop with a focus on handmade and fair trade items including jewelry, clothing, beauty, accessories and more.
Come experience the magic of the holidays in Winston-Salem! From dazzling light shows to local shopping, this season is the perfect time to explore all that our remarkable city has to offer. Support local businesses and create unforgettable memories—join us this holiday season for an unforgettable experience!