December 17, 2025
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 a wide variety of places to eat.
Exit 49 is extraordinary at any time of year. During the holidays, these joyful activities make it a must-see.
All season 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 the Frosty Fest Family Dance Party. Enjoy the Snowland Scavenger Hunt, get creative with Arts & Crafts Kits, and get active with T’was the Night Before Snowland Yoga Tails. And of course, don’t forget visits from Santa Claus!
Mark your calendar and make your reservations! From November 24, 2025 to January 6, 2026, this magical holiday experience offers endless ways for you and your pack to make memories together.
Speedway Christmas at Charlotte Motor Speedway
In its 16th year, Speedway Christmas is the Southeast’s largest drive-thru holiday light show and features over six 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 4-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.
With more that 700 new elements in 2025 including a 1,000-foot illuminated walking trail, 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 p.m.-10 p.m. through January 4, 2026 but closed on Christmas Eve (December 24, 2025).
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. With special holiday shopping hours, it’s easy to complete your entire gift list.
Pick up a gift for everyone on your list and treat yourself with the savings! Santa arrived in November, 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. Add even more magic to trip to Concord Mills and expereince the underwater wonder at SEA LIFE Aquarium!
Plan A Magical Getaway
Find even more accommodations alongside the action at Exit 49 on this list of places to stay in Cabarrus County. For additional assistance planning your holiday getaway or staycation in Cabarrus County, contact us at 800-848-3740 or send a message to [email protected].
