October 18, 2023
Conveniently located along Interstate 85 just minutes north of Charlotte, Exit 49 in Concord offers a unique combination of exciting experiences you won’t find anywhere else in the state. Always buzzing with activity, the area is frequented by locals and travelers alike for its action-packed attractions, unmatched shopping and wide variety of places to eat.
All December long, this special stretch becomes a hub for holiday activities the whole family will enjoy. Get inspired by these festive happenings and create your own customized Christmas itinerary!
Snowland at Great Wolf Lodge
Beloved for its 80,000-square-foot indoor water park and fun family atmosphere, Great Wolf Lodge offers a whole host of kid-friendly activities and attractions throughout the property. For the holidays, the resort transforms into a magical winter wonderland during Snowland!
Connect with your pack as you enjoy hot cocoa and cozy activities like Snowflake Story Time. Enjoy the Snowfall Celebration, get creative with Arts & Crafts Kits, and get active with Snowland Yoga Tails! And of course, don’t forget visits from Santa Claus!
This magical holiday experience offers endless ways for you to and your pack to make memories together this season.
Speedway Christmas at Charlotte Motor Speedway
The Southeast’s largest drive-thru holiday light show features over 4 million LED lights around the legendary track, through the infield and under the concourse!
Tune your radio to the Speedway Christmas station and watch in wonder as hundreds of lights-to-music displays dance throughout the impressive 3.75-mile course. Plus, the merriment continues with at the infield Christmas Village and drive-in holiday movies on the giant 16,000-square-foot Speedway TV every Thursday-Sunday!
This annual favorite is a spectacular option for holiday fun! Be sure to arrive early and consider visiting on a weeknight for the smoothest traffic flow and quicker entry. Speedway Christmas is open nightly from 6-10pm (see the website for full details).
Holiday Shopping & Photos with Santa at Concord Mills
As North Carolina’s largest outlet and value retail shopping center, Concord Mills is home to over 200 stores, dining and entertainment options.
Pick up a gift for everyone on your list and treat yourself with the savings! Santa arrives on November 18 so before visiting, be sure to make a reservation for a photo with him. After your shopping adventure, outdoor fun awaits at The Speedpark with mini golf, go karts and more. Plus, keep reading for details on the underwater wonder at SEA LIFE Aquarium!
Sea of Lights at SEA Life Aquarium
Journey through thousands of holiday lights as they sparkle across 5,000 fishy friends! Located inside Concord Mills at Entry 7, SEA LIFE Aquarium features an awe-inspiring 180° ocean tunnel where tropical sharks and graceful rays glide overhead! Don’t miss the opportunity to journey through the illuminated aquarium and see over 30 decorated Christmas trees during Sea of Lights.
Exit 49 is extraordinary at any time of year and during the holidays, these joyful activities make it a must-see!
Find even more accommodations alongside the action at Exit 49 on this list of Places to Stay in Cabarrus County, NC. For additional assistance planning your holiday getaway or staycation in Cabarrus County, contact us at 800-848-3740 or send a message to hey@explorecabarrus.com.
