Christmas Markets North Carolina 2025 Guide to Festive Events and Shopping

31) Sanford Holiday Market

Sanford, North Carolina, sets up a holiday market that brings local businesses and families together. Vendors show off handmade gifts—scarves, ornaments, crafts, you name it.

You can try seasonal foods and treats as you wander. The vibe’s lively but not too crowded, and there’s music, performances, and plenty for kids to do.

Some folks come for unique souvenirs, others just want to soak up the decorations and live music. You can show up with friends, bring the family, or even fly solo—there’s no wrong way to join in.

The focus stays on community and practical activities, with everyone involved. No admission fee here, and the crowds are usually easy to manage, so you can browse or relax at your own pace.

Event Details

Dates	December 7 – 8, 2025
Address	Downtown Sanford, NC
Times	10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Prices	Free Entry
Nearby Hotels	See places to stay near Sanford
Website	Christmas markets in Sanford 2025

The Sanford Holiday Market gives you a laid-back way to enjoy seasonal traditions in North Carolina—no fuss, just good times.

32) Fuquay-Varina Winter Market

The Fuquay-Varina Winter Market pops up in the Chamber of Commerce parking lot. Locals and out-of-towners gather here all through the holiday season.

This lively event lets you explore handmade products, quirky gifts, and seasonal bites. Vendors are proud of what they make, and you can chat with them while picking out fresh produce, crafts, or sweet holiday treats.

Walking through the market, you’ll notice a warm, welcoming vibe that draws in people of all ages. Some folks come for bakery treats or specialty finds, while others just soak up the festive buzz.

It’s a pretty easy way to support local businesses and discover things you won’t see at big box stores. Friends and families often use the market as a meetup spot, and honestly, it’s become a real staple in Fuquay-Varina’s winter scene.

Here’s what you’ll want to know before you go:

Dates	Address	Times	Cost	Where to Stay Nearby	Website
Saturdays, Apr 13 – Sep 7, 2025	121 N Main St., Fuquay-Varina, NC	Apr-May: 9am-1pm; Jun-Sep: 8am-12pm	Free	Fuquay-Varina Hotels	Full event details

33) Kinston Christmas Market 2025

Kinston’s Christmas market brings small-town tradition right to Broadway Street. Every year, you’ll see up to 60 booths with handmade crafts, local foods, and plenty of options for holiday gifts.

Vendors set up outside, so you can wander from stand to stand and see what grabs your attention. The holiday vibe really comes alive with two main events.

The Pink Hill tree lighting happens December 2 and 3, from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m., and the tree sparkles at 5:30 p.m. This ceremony draws a lot of families downtown, and it’s a real highlight.

The Holly Jolly Holiday Show is another seasonal draw. It runs November 22 and 23, with Friday night as adults-only Sip & Shop from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.—great if you want to shop without the crowds.

Saturday opens to everyone from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tickets run $8 in advance and $10 at the door, but kids 12 and under get in free.

Here’s a quick glance at the details:

Dates	Times	Address	Cost	Where to Stay Nearby	Website
Nov 22-23, 2025	Fri: 5–8 pm, Sat: 10 am–4 pm	Broadway St, Kinston, NC	$8–$10, Kids free	Find Hotels in Kinston	Christmas Market Details
Dec 2-3, 2025	3–7 pm (tree at 5:30 pm)	Broadway St, Kinston, NC	Free	Find Hotels in Kinston	Christmas Market Details

Parking’s straightforward, and families have easy access. The market’s a nice fit for a day trip or if you want to make a night of it.

34) Thomasville Holiday Bazaar

Stop by the Thomasville Holiday Bazaar for a festive shopping break. You’ll see handmade gifts, all crafted by local artisans.

If you’re after unique, high-quality finds you can’t get at big stores, this is your spot. Live music fills the air and adds to the holiday mood while you browse.

Want to make a memory? The on-site family portrait studio lets you snap a holiday photo with loved ones.

Kids can dive into hands-on holiday crafts, so they’re not left out. You don’t need a ticket—just show up and wander the stalls with friends or family.

Thinking about staying over? Booking.com has some decent Thomasville hotel options.

Date	Time	Address	Price	Nearby Hotels	Website
December 13, 2025	8:00 AM – 12:00 PM	21 East Guilford Street, Thomasville, NC, United States, North Carolina 27360	Free Entry	Booking.com Thomasville	More about the Thomasville Christmas Bazaar

35) New Bern Holiday Craft Market

What You Can Expect

The New Bern Holiday Craft Market sits right in downtown New Bern, North Carolina. Local artisans show off a huge range of handmade goods, and visitors come for unique ornaments, scarves, hats, and other winter gear.

Every stall brings something creative, and sellers usually love sharing the story behind their work. These chats add a real community feel and help you connect with the makers.

Downtown New Bern itself feels extra special, with streets decked out for the season. Shopping here supports small businesses, since most vendors live and work nearby.

If you want a relaxed shopping trip, this market’s pretty chill. It’s open during the day, so you can also hit up local shops or check out some of the historic sights.

Here’s the info you’ll need:

Date	Location	Hours	Admission	Where to Stay Nearby	Event Website
November 8, 2025	Downtown New Bern, NC	10:00 AM – 5:00 PM	Free	New Bern Hotels	New Bern Holiday Craft Market Info

36) Mooresville Holiday Market

What You Need to Know

The Mooresville Holiday Market lights up downtown on December 13, 2025. The fun runs from 5:00 to 9:00 p.m.

Streets glow with festive lights and music, and booths are decked out for the season. Local makers sell jewelry, pottery, and all kinds of baked treats.

It’s a solid spot to grab classic seasonal snacks or a warm drink. Bring your crew and stroll Main Street—there’s no shortage of one-of-a-kind gifts or holiday spirit.

The crowd’s a mix of visitors and locals, and the vibe is friendly and upbeat. Here’s the rundown:

Date	Location	Time	Admission	Nearby Lodging	Website
December 13, 2025	413 North Main Street, Mooresville, NC 28115	5:00-9:00 p.m.	Free	Book a hotel nearby	Downtown Mooresville Events

37) Morganton Holiday Fest

Morganton Holiday Fest brings out the best of the season with a local craft fair twist. It’s set for December 3rd, 2025, from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm at 433 Lost Corner Road in Morganton, North Carolina.

Vendors show off handmade gifts, holiday decorations, and fresh baked goods—all ready for you to browse.

Lights and music make the setting extra cheerful. Food stalls tempt you with snacks and sweets, and the air smells amazing.

Kids can jump into simple games and activities, so families feel right at home. Admission’s free, so you don’t have to stress about tickets.

If you’re traveling, you’ll find plenty of hotels close by through booking.com. For updates or more info, check the official event website on the Morganton events calendar.

Date	Address	Times	Price	Where to Stay Nearby	Website Address
December 3rd	433 Lost Corner Rd, Morganton	10:00 am – 4:00 pm	Free	Hotels available on booking.com	Morganton events calendar: https://www.morgantonnc.gov/main-street/page/upcoming-events-0

38) Reidsville Seasonal Craft Fair

Each winter, Reidsville turns into a hub for handmade holiday gifts and festive activities. Local artists and makers show off their best crafts, from one-of-a-kind jewelry to creative holiday décor and baked treats.

When you visit, you can wander through different stalls and meet the people behind these creations. The highlight is the Holiday Market at the Penn House, a historic mansion decked out for the season.

Inside, tables overflow with handmade goods against the backdrop of old architecture and holiday lights. Smaller pop-up markets also pop up all around downtown.

If you’re searching for original gifts or want to support small businesses, these markets are worth a look. Music, twinkling lights, and the scent of holiday treats fill the air, making every visit feel special and rooted in local culture.

Entry to the main craft event won’t cost you anything. Details for planning your visit are below.

Event Name	Date	Address	Time	Price	Where to Stay Nearby	Event Website
Holiday Market	TBD	Penn House, 324 Maple Ave	5 hours	Free	Hotels in Reidsville	Holiday Market Information

You’ll find a friendly setting focused on handcrafted items and community spirit. If you’re into authentic holiday markets, this one’s a solid pick for your 2025 plans.

39) Lenoir Holiday Gathering

Key Information for Visitors

This annual event takes over downtown Lenoir. You can browse local booths selling handcrafted ornaments, winter clothing, and sweet treats.

Vendors share handmade wares and gifts that make for thoughtful holiday presents. As you walk through the celebration, live music from area musicians fills the air.

Choirs and small groups perform holiday songs throughout the day. If you’re craving something warm, grab a cup of cocoa and enjoy the performances.

Kids can meet Santa and join in on games designed just for them. There’s even an outdoor ice skating rink for anyone itching for a bit of winter fun.

The event runs all day into the evening, so you’ve got time to take it all in. Admission is free, so families can enjoy without worrying about extra costs.

For travelers, local hotels like Holiday Inn Express on Booking.com are nearby and comfy.

Dates	Location	Time	Admission	Nearby Hotel	Event Website
Dec 1–24, 2025	Downtown Lenoir, NC	10 AM–8 PM	Free	Holiday Inn Express Lenoir	Christmas in Lenoir

40) Kings Mountain Winter Market

Head to Patriots Park for the Kings Mountain Winter Market, where the park glows with over a million lights every evening. The market runs from November 22, 2025, to January 1, 2026, with lights shining each night from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM.

The Mistletoe Market pops up on December 7, featuring local vendors and artisans selling homemade crafts and holiday gifts. The Christmas Parade rolls through the same day at 3:00 PM, with floats, bands, and plenty of festive energy.

Santa’s Workshop opens on December 6, offering a fun spot for family photos and a chance to meet Santa. The annual tree lighting kicks off everything on November 22 at 6:00 PM.

Most events are free to attend. If you’re staying overnight, check out options like the Comfort Inn Kings Mountain on booking.com.

For updates and event details, visit the official city calendar.

Dates	Address	Times	Prices	Where to Stay Nearby	Website
Nov 22, 2025 – Jan 1, 2026	220 South Railroad Avenue	5:00 PM – 10:00 PM	Free	Comfort Inn Kings Mountain	https://cityofkm.com/Calendar.aspx?EID=458
Mistletoe Market Dec 7, 2025			Free
Tree Lighting Nov 22, 2025		6:00 PM	Free
Parade Dec 7, 2025		3:00 PM	Free

Want more about local festivities? Check out this Christmas Light Extravaganza guide.