Holiday Guide

Things to see

Meadow Lights

Don’t miss “the original old-fashioned Christmas tradition and the largest and oldest Christmas attraction in Eastern North Carolina!” Visit the candy store, ride the train and visit with Saint Nick himself. For more information, visit www.meadowlights.com.

Lights on the Neuse

Boyette Family Farm, 1620 Loop Road, Clayton

Celebrate the holiday with an old-fashioned hayride at Lights on the Neuse this season. The hayride whisks you and your loved ones away to a transformed world of Christmas spirit. It’s open every Friday, Saturday and Sunday night through Christmas Eve, and other select nights as well. For the complete schedule, visit www.lightsontheneuse.com/schedule.

Dawn Avenue Lights

Stop by Dawn Avenue after Dec. 7 for a unique light show that’s more than worth the short drive to Four Oaks. Open from 7-10 p.m. nightly from Dec. 7 through Jan. 7.

Ready Set Escape

1304-D Market Street, Smithfield Check out “Santa’s Cabin,” their new 30-minute Christmas escape room experience.

Christmas Jubilee

Rudy Theatre, Selma

Capture the magic of the holiday season with the Christmas Jubilee at the Rudy Theatre. There are plenty of chances to catch the show, and you can visit www.rudytheatre.com/schedules to see all of the available dates.

Santa’s Workshop

Visit Santa in his Downtown Smithfield workshop located at Town Hall Park to make sure you're on the nice list! A big thank you to Leonard Buildings & Truck Accessories for providing Santa's Workshop! Dates are: Friday, Dec. 8, 4-8 p.m.; Saturday, Dec. 9, 10 a.m. to noon; Thursday, Dec. 14, 4-6 p.m.; Friday, Dec. 15, 4-8 p.m.; Saturday, Dec. 16, 10 a.m. to noon; Thursday, Dec. 21, 4-6 p.m.; Friday, Dec. 22, 4-8 p.m. and Saturday, Dec. 23, 10 a.m. to noon.

For more information, www.smithfield-nc.com/page/christmas_santas_workshop.

Things to Know

Carriage Rides

Downtown Smithfield is especially magical in December, when the storefronts are beautifully decorated for Christmas and the town decks the halls for the season! The Downtown Smithfield Development Corporation hosts Christmas Carriage Rides to give people a chance to enjoy the twinkling lights around downtown. Free carriage rides are available from 6-9 p.m. on December 6, 15 and 20. Reservations are required. Visit www.downtownsmithfield.com/events/414-christmas-carriage-rides to learn more.

Live Nativity

Hephzibah Baptist Church in Princeton will present its Live Nativity Drive Through program for three nights, December 11-13 from 7-9. From the warmth of your car, you will hear the story of the birth of Jesus through music and Biblical narration. See the story unfold as costumed individuals and live animals illustrate the narration. There is no cost, and the displays are weather permitting. For more, visit www.facebook.com/hbcprinceton or call 919-965-5886.

JWL's Letters from Santa

Santa Claus has given his elves at JWL a very special assignment: to help him spread holiday cheer to your loved ones, both the young and the young-at-heart. For each $7 donation, we will send a joy-filled personalized letter on Santa’s newest stationary to children, grandchildren, pets or any loved one using the information you provide. Be sure to add your special letter recipient to Santa’s mailing list before the deadline — December 2 at 11:59 p.m. Santa’s helpers will send letters from the North Pole to cities across the USA in time for Christmas. Proceeds will be used to purchase warm winter coats for children benefiting from the services of the Boys and Girls Club of Johnston County and Partnership for Children of Johnston County, as well as families affected by Hurricane Helene in Western North Carolina. 

Things to do

Tuesday, Dec. 3, 5 p.m.

CommWell Health Christmas Tree Lighting CeremonyU.S. 301, Four Oaks

Come out for the third-annual Eagle Foundation Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony. There will be light refreshments, snacks, photo opportunities with Santa and more.

Tuesday, Dec. 3, 5 p.m.

Christmas in Cleveland 2024

Cleveland, get ready to experience the magic of Christmas like never before. Savor delicious bites from some of the best food trucks in town, watch in awe as the festive parade lights up the streets, and make memories with Santa himself! For more, email info@clevelandvfd.org. 

Tuesday, Dec. 3, 6 p.m.

Selma Christmas Celebration & Parade

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Selma will host a tree lighting and have special entertainment in front of the Selma Finance Building at 6, and the parade will begin at 7.

Dec. 4-7

The Best Christmas Pageant EverSpiritual Twist Productions, Aversboro Rd, Garner

In this hilarious Christmas classic, a couple struggling to put on a church Christmas pageant is faced with casting the Herdman kids — probably the most inventively awful kids in history. For showtimes and ticket information, visit www.spiritualtwist.com.

Wednesday, Dec. 4, 7 p.m.

Eddie Miles Christmas SpecialRudy Theatre, Selma

Eddie Miles Eddie will be live on-stage to deliver an intimate solo performance of America’s most loved Christmas & Country music. For more, visit www.rudytheatre.com/schedules.

Thursday, Dec. 5, 5 p.m.

34th Annual Christmas Village & Tree LightingDowntown Clayton

Save the date for the 34th-annual Downtown Clayton Christmas Village and Tree Lighting, hosted by the Downtown Development Association and the Town of Clayton. There will be performances by local groups and entertainers, food trucks and a chance to visit with Santa.

Thursday, Dec. 5, 5:30 p.m.

Four Oaks Christmas Tree LightingDon’t miss the annual tree lighting in Barbours Grove Park, organized by the Four Oaks Chamber of Commerce, the Four Oaks Fire Department and the Town of Four Oaks. There will be performances from local schools and organizations and the chance to visit Santa.

Thursday, Dec. 5, 6 p.m.

Town of Princeton Christmas Tree Lighting

The Town of Princeton will host its second-annual Christmas Tree Lighting on Thursday December 5.

Thursday, Dec. 5, 7 p.m.

Kenly Christmas Parade

Get a little Christmas spirit under the stars in Kenly and check out its annual Christmas Parade.

Friday, Dec. 6, 5 p.m.

Christmas on MainDowntown Benson

Don’t miss the annual Christmas on Main event in Downtown Benson. You can get some shopping done, check out the Christmas Tree Lighting and Parade and even visit with Santa. There will be food trucks on Main Street and Fainting Goat Brewery will be open in the new social district.

Saturday, Dec. 7, 9 a.m.

Sixth Annual Christmas Craft Fair

Pace Family Farms, Buffalo Road, ClaytonHere’s another chance to knock out a bit of Christmas shopping. Visit www.pacefamilyfarms.com/christmas-craft-fair to learn more.

Saturday, Dec. 7, 10 a.m.

Stink, Stank, Stunk 5K Toy Run and Jingle Bell Jog

Check out the annual Stink, Stank, Stunk 5k Run and Jingle Bell Jog at Smithfield Community Park on Saturday, December 7. The participation fee is a new, unwrapped toy that benefits Harbor Shelter and the Johnston County DSS Angel Tree Project. For more, visit www.smithfield-nc.com/page/christmas_stink_stank_stunk.

Saturday, Dec. 7, 11 a.m.

Four Oaks Christmas Parade

Check out the annual Christmas Parade in Four Oaks!

Saturday, Dec. 7, 1 p.m.

Princeton Christmas Parade 2024

Save the date! More details to come at www.facebook.com/events/463716933385711.

Saturday, Dec. 7, 3 p.m.

Christmas Parade & Tree LightingArcher Lodge Community Center, Buffalo Road, Clayton

Enjoy an afternoon and evening of fun events, including a parade, tree lighting, vendor fair, chili cook off, visits with Santa and more.

Saturday, Dec. 7, 3:30 p.m.

Micro Christmas Parade

The parade route will start at the Micro Elementary School parking lot and travel down Main until Davis Street. For more details, email katymaegarcia@gmail.com.

Saturday, Dec. 7, 5 p.m.

"In Heavenly Peace" Christmas Open HouseBentonville Battlefield, Harper House Road, Four Oaks

Experience the Harper House as a family residence, not as a Civil War field hospital. This holiday season, you are invited to tour the home of John and Amy Harper as it may have during a Civil War Christmas.There is a $5 adult admission fee, but the event is free for kids under eight.

Saturday, Dec. 7, 6 p.m

Hopes-N-Dreams Christmas Dinner/DanceHickory Grove Advent Christian Church, Lassiter Road, Four Oaks

Go enjoy an awesome meal and dance your heart away. This is a family event and it’s free. For more information, text Dale at 919-618-3537.

Saturday, Dec. 7, 6 p.m.

Clayton WIN 2024 Festival of Trees

Don’t miss one of Clayton’s most beloved holiday traditions! The Festival of Trees Gala & Silent Auction is back for its 5th year, and it’s going to be more festive than ever! Enjoy an unforgettable evening of holiday cheer, delicious food, and entertainment, all while getting the chance to participate in a silent auction featuring over 35 beautifully themed trees, generously designed and donated by local businesses and organizations. This event is the official start of Clayton’s holiday season, and all proceeds go to benefit Clayton Women in Networking and its mission to empower and support the community. For more, visit www.claytonwin.com.

Sunday, Dec. 8, noon

Holiday BashRaleigh Brewing Distro, U.S. 70, Smithfield

Check out Raleigh Brewing Distro for its first-ever Holiday Bash Celebration. There will be a holiday drive benefitting OneCompassion, adoptable dogs from Carolina Animal Rescue and a whole lot more! Visit www.facebook.com/events/511575835039588 for the latest updates.

Sunday, Dec 8, 4 p.m.

Christmas Celebration presented by Johnston County ChorusThe Clayton Center

The Johnston County Chorus presents its 2024 holiday concert, "Christmas Celebration," on Sunday, December 8. Come on out and enjoy your favorite holiday songs, with performances by local vocalists and dancers. Visit www.theclaytoncenter.com/calendar.aspx?EID=1847 for ticket information.

Wednesday, Dec. 11, 7 p.m.

94.7 QDR Acoustic Christmas for the KidsThe Clayton Center

Check out Curtis Media's 94.7 QDR Acoustic Christmas for the Kids Concert. Join QDR at The Clayton Center on December 11 for a guitar pull featuring singer-songwriters Larry Fleet, Zach Top, Drew Baldridge and Anne Wilson. The concert benefits UNC Children’s Hospital. Ticket information is available at www.theclaytoncenter.com/calendar.aspx?EID=1821.

Thursday, Dec. 12, 5 p.m.

Ice Cream with the GrinchSisters II Ice Cream, Market St., Benson

Come grab your favorite Sundae or your favorite milkshake and mingle with the Grinch. He will be dropping by the Parlor. While the ice cream is sold separately, the meet and greet with the Grinch is free. 

Thursday, Dec. 12, 7 p.m.

Town of Smithfield Christmas Parade

Check out the annual Christmas Parade in Downtown Smithfield. For more, visit www.smithfield-nc.com/page/parks_special_events.

Friday, Dec. 13, 7:30 p.m.

Clayton Piano Festival Holiday GalaTwin Oaks Barn, Cornwallis Road, Garner

Indulge in the holiday spirit as you listen to delightful renditions of classic seasonal tunes and timeless favorites. Whether you’re a piano lover or simply looking for a delightful evening out, the Clayton Piano Festival Holiday Gala is the perfect way to celebrate the holiday season.

Friday, Dec. 13, 8 p.m.

Motown Sounds of Christmas - Pure Life TheatreThe Clayton Center

The Clayton Center and Pure Life Theatre Company collaborate to produce this joyful Motown show featuring some of the Triangle's finest singers and dancers. The Motown Sound of Christmas is perfect for the entire family and is complete with the most famous Hitsville USA music selections and extra surprises celebrating the holidays and Motown! Enjoy a unique holiday experience full of soul and joy, wrapped with a message of love and hope. Ticket information is available at www.theclaytoncenter.com/calendar.aspx?EID=1831.

Saturday, Dec. 14, 11 a.m.

Christkindl MarketOld North State Food Hall, JR Road, Selma

Check out an outdoor market with artisan vendors, seasonal drinks and festive cheer.

For details, visit onsfh.com/events.

Dec. 14 and 21, noon

Lunch with SantaOld North State Food Hall, JR Road, Selma

Enjoy lunch, cookie decorating and a photo with Santa! The cost is $20 per adult and $15 per child. For details, visit onsfh.com/events.

Saturday, Dec. 14, noon

A Clause for CelebrationParker Pharmacy, U.S. 301, Four Oaks

Don’t miss Parker Pharmacy’s annual Christmas event, featuring pictures with Santa, treats and activities for kids. For more details, email ekppharmd@gmail.com.

Saturday, Dec. 14, 3 p.m.

2024 Clayton Christmas Parade

The Clayton Rotary Club and the Town of Clayton, NC Government will hold the parade on Saturday, December 14 come rain, snow or shine! 

Monday, Dec. 16, 7 p.m.

Celtic Angels ChristmasPaul A. Johnston Auditorium, Johnston Community College

Celtic Angels Christmas is a joyous celebration from start to finish, encompassing vocal and instrumental Holiday and Irish favorites. Paired with show stopping world class champion Irish dancing and a fully live band, Celtic Angels Christmas is sure to awe and entertain. For ticket information, visit www.etix.com/ticket/p/34690310/celtic-angels-christmas-smithfield-the-paul-ajohnston-auditorium.

Tuesday, Dec. 17, 7:30 p.m.

Pam Tillis Belles & Bows Country ChristmasThe Clayton Center

Join country music legend Pam Tillis for a heartwarming evening filled with her greatest hits and timeless Christmas classics. "Belles and Bows" blends Tillis's iconic voice with the magic of the holiday season, delivering an unforgettable performance that celebrates the spirit of a country Christmas. For more, visit www.theclaytoncenter.com/calendar.aspx?EID=1830.

Thursday, Dec. 19, 6 p.m.

Christmas Trivia for a CauseOld North State Food Hall, JR Road, Selma

Form a team with your friends and colleagues and play Christmas Trivia for a Cause! Entry fees are $10 per person with a max team size of 6 players. The top two teams will split the winnings for their chosen not-for-profit cause or organization. For more, visit ticketscandy.com/e/christmas-trivia-for-a-cause-6968. 

Sunday, Dec. 22, 1 p.m.

Whoville Holiday HappeningOld North State Food Hall, JR Road, Selma

Whoville Holiday Happening, last year’s favorite holiday event for kids, is back at the food hall. Kids 6 and up can: Create Grinch-themed crafts and activities, watch the Grinch classic show, decorate Grinch cookies and meet the Grinch himself. Tickets are $10 per child. Register at www.ticketscandy.com/e/whoville-holiday-happening-6944. 

Tuesday, Dec. 31, 7 p.m.

Moonlight Swing Band, New Year CelebrationRudy Theatre, Selma

Formed in 2014, in a sense, the Moonlight Swing Band’s DNA goes back to the 1930s and 40s and the era of the big brass bands, Glenn Miller and Tommy Dorsey and the crooners who sang on top of them, like Ella Fitzgerald, Louis Armstrong and Frank Sinatra. For more, visit www.rudytheatre.com/schedules.

Tuesday, Dec 31, 8 p.m.

New Year's Eve on The Farm at 95, featuring Band Of Oz

Come ring in 2025 with Band of Oz at The Farm at 95! Tickets include entry into the event, a free champagne toast at midnight, a fun show from Band of Oz, light appetizers, a photo booth and access to the cash bar! This show is indoors. Ticket information can be found at www.thefarmnc.com/new-years-eve-2025.