Your Christmas Needs This Light Show

Your Christmas Needs This Light Show

The Carolina Holiday Light Spectacular (Nov 28–Dec 30) features one million lights, a Winter Wonderland Carnival, Santa, and accessible trails at Ballantyne’s Backyard.

Ballantyne’s Backyard, NC
December, 2025

Oh, the air is crisp, the goodwill is rising, and the scent of Christmas cookies and sugar plums is just waiting to be embraced! Forget the dreary winter blues, it’s time to don your warmest scarf, listen for the jingle of sleighbells, and follow the magnificent star! The beloved Carolina Holiday Light Spectacular is back for its 4th annual festival of pure, unadulterated holiday magic, and it promises more whimsical wonder than ever before.

From Friday, November 28 to Tuesday, December 30, 2025, Ballantyne’s Backyard will transform into a luminous canvas of twinkling delight. Imagine a journey down a half-mile trail where over one million radiant lights dance to festive music, guiding you past interactive scenes straight out of an elf’s dream.

First, there is a Winter Wonderland Carnival! Hop aboard the new Ferris Wheel, a perfect perch for seeing the lights or feel the festive rush on the kiddie roller coaster and rapid slide! It’s pure, sugary, candy-coated delight. Next, enjoy the Mystical Performances! Every single night, graceful ballerinas will twirl near those magnificent, oversized snow globes, creating a scene of absolute elegance and winter fantasy. And of course,  Santa & Ice Castles! Yes, August, Santa Claus himself will be there nightly through December 23rd! Plus, don’t miss the exquisite Ice Castle and its majestic Princess Carriage; it’s a sparkling dream! Finally, explore The Holiday Village! This charming stop is perfect for finding unique boutique gifts,
grabbing a gourmet treat from a rotating selection of food trucks, or simply soaking up the warm glow of fellowship. The organizers have wrapped up the experience like a perfect present, too!
The pathways are now concrete or decked, making this luminous land fully accessible to strollers and wheelchairs. And in the true spirit of goodwill, parking is absolutely FREE!

With tickets starting at a humble $10, this enchanting spectacle is the most brilliant way to capture the warmth and wonder of the season. So gather under the mistletoe, tie your brightest ribbons, and let the elves of the Carolina Holiday Light Spectacular fill your heart with Christmas cheer. a 

See you under the brightest star!


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