A Season of Discovery

A Candlelight Celebration at Tryon Palace

This famed North Carolina tradition returns to Tryon Palace with beautiful decorations inspired by the four seasons and lots of holiday festivities and activities on the historic site grounds.

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Santa Clause gestures towards the camera as he stands between a christmas tree and a sleigh with five plastic reindeer.

The Polar Express

All aboard The Polar Express at the N.C. Transportation Museum. Inspired by the runaway hit movie, this holiday favorite comes to life as you and your family take a ride on The Polar Express.

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Holidays with the North Carolina Symphony

Join your North Carolina Symphony and a special guest star vocalist at this festive concert full of holiday favorites and traditional carols you know and love.

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This holiday season, the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources invites you to embark on a Season of Discovery — a festive exploration across the state’s most cherished parks, historic sites, aquariums, museums, and cultural attractions.

From candlelight tours and winter hikes to immersive art exhibits and holiday lights by the sea, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re seeking family fun, historical experiences, or serene escapes into nature, North Carolina’s holiday events offer unforgettable moments for visitors of all ages. Join us to celebrate the season in a way that only North Carolina can offer.

Let’s create your personalized DNCR Event Digest!

Looking for new things to do? We’d love to send a weekly list of upcoming events, customized just for you. Our DNCR Event Digest allows you to enter preferences such as location, special interests, type of event, and more. On the day of the week you choose, a list of DNCR events matching your interests will arrive in your inbox. Let’s get started!

Explore Holiday Events Across North Carolina

Find festive programs, tours, and seasonal celebrations happening at our parks, museums, historic sites, and more all season long.

Location Guide

North Carolina boasts nearly 100 state parks, museums, historic sites, aquariums, and other attractions. Use this tool to find places to visit by activity, theme, and region.

Featured Events

Executive Mansion Holiday Tours

The North Carolina Executive Mansion Holiday Open House is an annual opportunity to visit the home of our North Carolina First Family and experience the mansion beautifully decorated for the holidays. Each room features a uniquely themed North Carolina Christmas tree, and local musical groups will perform throughout the event, creating a truly festive atmosphere. No reservations are required; guests are received in the order of arrival.

Thursday, December 11: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Friday, December 12: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday, December 13: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

While guided tours are not offered during the Open House, knowledgeable docents will be stationed in each room to answer questions and share details about the mansion and its holiday décor. Please note that public access is limited to the house only, as the gardens will be closed for the season.

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Western Residence Holiday Tours

The Governor’s Western Residence Holiday Open House in Asheville invites visitors to enjoy a festive seasonal tour with free shuttle service from 143 Executive Park at the base of Town Mountain Road. No reservations are required. Guests are encouraged to bring canned food donations for MANNA Food Bank. Purses and personal bags are not permitted, though grocery bags for food donations are allowed. The Western Residence offers stunning views of Mt. Pisgah and downtown Asheville and has served 12 administrations since its construction in 1939.

Saturday, Dec. 13: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Sunday, Dec. 14: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

A video tour is available at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VgME7sw9uQY.