Festival of Lights in Greensboro 2024, North Carolina

Every winter, a holiday lights extravaganza kicks off the Christmas season in Downtown Greensboro, NC. The annual Festival of Lights has been Greensboro's favorite holiday tradition for over 40 years. Thousands of kids can't wait to meet Santa Klaus in Hamburger Square, drink a cup of hot chocolate, and roast s'mores. Crowd-pleasers also include carols, community sing-along, lighting of the Christmas tree in Center City Park, Santa, Santa visits, and live performances along Elm Street.

Tree Lighting Ceremony (December 6, 2024)

The Lighting Ceremony is the main highlight of the festival. The program is full of fun events and activities like musical performances, and holiday crafts for kids. Food vendors offer plenty of delicious treats throughout downtown. Also, many downtown merchants who will be open late for Festival of Lights.

The Festival of Lights runs from 5:30 to 9 pm. The live entertainment program in Center City Park begins at 5:30 pm, followed by the community tree lighting at 6:56 pm. Warm up at several warming stations in Downtown Greensboro and take a perfect family picture at a social photo booth. There are also many holiday treats in downtown cafes.

Greensboro Holiday Parade (December 7, 2024)

Another festive tradition is the Greensboro Holiday Parade, featuring guest bands and giant Macy's-style balloons. It is one of the few large Christmas Parades in the state. The event attracts over 60,000 spectators. The main attractions of the parade are spectacular professional floats, dance groups, and drill teams, as well as the region's best middle school, high school, and college marching bands as they march along the brightly illuminated streets of Downtown Greensboro. The parade runs from noon to 2 pm.

Santa at The Biltmore (December 2024)

During the holidays, the little ones can visit Santa at The Biltmore Hotel as a part of the Downtown in December Festival in Greensboro, presented by Allegacy Federal Credit Union. In 2024, Santa visits will take place on December 3, 9, 10, 16, 17, 22, and 23, from 11 am to 3 pm. Santa visits are free, and no advanced reservations are required.

Pedmont Winterfest Ice Rink (November 17, 2024-January 28, 2025)

Get into the Christmas spirit even more while skating at an outdoor ice rink during Piedmont Winterfest, running from mid-November through late January. The rink is located in LeBauer Park along N. Davie St. in downtown Greensboro. The ice rink area is equipped with spectator seating and plenty of photo opportunities. On Tuesday nights, the rink also features a curling league.