Wilkesboro NC Christmas 2026 Top Events and Things to Do
Wilkesboro NC Christmas Events 2026
Wilkesboro, North Carolina is the best of both worlds, with one foot in the mountains of the NC High Country and one foot in the Yadkin Valley! Visit Wilkesboro this holiday season. Wilkesboro NC can have milder weather in the winter and is great for hiking and outdoor activities such as fishing, hiking and biking year round! Here is our list of the best Christmas events and Wilkesboro parks to visit over the holidays:
Light up Downtown
Friday, November 20, 2026: 6-9pm
Late hours for stores, Christmas lights and music and a visit from Santa Claus are planned in downtown North Wilkesboro. Both downtowns are being decorated for Christmas, including a large Christmas tree on the Wilkes Heritage Museum front lawn in Wilkesboro.
Horse-drawn carriage rides through downtown North Wilkesboro. Celebrate the season with family and friends and enjoy twinkling lights and festive window displays. Be sure and bring a comfy blanket to keep you and yours warm for the ride. Find details HERE
Wilkesboro NC Christmas 2026 Parade
Saturday, December 5, 2026: 3-4:30pm
This year's theme is: "A Patriotic Christmas." Enjoy community entries, marching bands, and holiday displays celebrating the seasonal theme, following by Santa kicking off the season!
The parade route begins on Main Street at 6th Street in North Wilkesboro, travels west on Main Street to 10th Street, follows 10th Street to D Street, turns left onto CBD Loop, turns onto Wilkesboro Blvd, and crosses the Mid-Way Bridge to Main Street in Wilkesboro.
Find more details HERE
Christmas in the Commons
Saturday, December 5, 2026: 3:30-8pm
Fun and festive Christmas events will fill the Carolina West Wireless Community Commons and Heritage Square at this free event!
- 3:30 PM: Food Trucks & Activities Open along North Bridge Street, Heritage Square, and the Carolina West Wireless Community Commons.
- Family Activities: Enjoy a festive photo booth, the Little Mountain Railroad Christmas Train, a giant snowman bounce house, snow-making effects, and holiday activities hosted by the Wilkes County Public Library.
- 5:30 PM – 8:00 PM: Santa & Mrs. Claus arrive for photos and visits with children of all ages.
- 7:00 PM: The official Heritage Square Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony takes place on the front lawn of the Wilkes Heritage Museum, featuring seasonal greetings from town leadership.
Stone Mountain State Park
This park offers over 18 miles of hiking trails and more than 20 miles of designated trout waters. Hike to the Hutchinson Homestead, a restored mid-19th century mountain farm for an education outing with the children. The park also has picnic shelters so you can take advantage of some winter warmth. For more information, CLICK HERE
Kerr Scott Reservoir
The reservoir offers pristine lake views in the winter and three trail systems for hiking and mountain biking at all skill levels. For more information, CLICK HERE
