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.

Clayton Celebration of Lights 2023

Join in on a Christmas Light decorating contest. It’s free to enter for Clayton residents, and there are prizes available. Visit bit.ly/ClaytonLights2023 to sign up. Follow the event sponsor, Danielle Reichard, Realtor, Christy Mangum Team on Facebook for more details, including the map of the homes entered in the contest.

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 5-8 p.m. on December 1, 8, 15 and 22. Reservations are required. Visit www.downtownsmithfield.com/events/414-christmas-carriage-rides to learn more.

Live Nativity

Sonlight Farms, Bunn Road, Kenly

Local churches are combining to share the experience of the true meaning of Christmas. Check it out Dec. 1-3, from 5-8 p.m.

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 $5 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. Remember, Santa and his elves are extremely busy preparing for their Christmas Eve journey and need plenty of time to prepare these very important letters. Be sure to add your special letter recipient to Santa’s mailing list before the deadline — December 4 at 11:59 p.m. Santa’s helpers will send letters from the North Pole to cities across the USA by December 11. Proceeds will be used to purchase warm winter coats for children benefiting from the services of My Kids Club and Partnership for Children of Johnston County. 

Things to do

Friday, Dec. 1, 9 a.m.

UNC Health Johnston Festival of Trees

Johnston Medical Mall, Brightleaf Blvd., Smithfield

The Festival of Trees returns to the Johnston Medical Mall this December. They’re decking the mall to benefit the Johnston Health Foundation and invite you to take a festive stroll through the beautifully decorated trees. Admission is free. For more details, visit www.facebook.com/events/1750437705418316.

Friday, Dec. 1, 5 p.m.

Tinsel Tree Lane Kickoff Event

Town of Wilson Mills, Railroad Street 

Come out to Wilson Mills’ Tinsel Tree Lane Christmas event on Friday. Dec. 1. The event showcases local dance and choral groups throughout the night, features a countdown to the Tinsel Tree Lane Christmas tree lighting at 6 p.m. and offers vendors selling Christmas gifts, crafts and decor. There will be food trucks on site and a special visit from Santa! This event is free to the public. For more, visit www.facebook.com/events/1626362121219996.

Friday, Dec. 1, 5 p.m.

Benson’s Christmas On Main

Downtown Benson

An evening full of fun for the entire family. Shopping,tree lighting, entertainment, a parade, music show in the grove and visits with Santa. To learn more, visit www.benson-chamber.com/events/details/christmas-on-main-1109.

Friday, Dec. 1, 6 p.m.

Town of Pine Level Christmas Tree Lighting

Sam Godwin Park

Don’t miss the Town of Pine Level’s annual tree lighting. For more information, call 919-965-2284.

Friday, Dec. 1, 6 p.m.

Christmas Tree Lighting

Neuse Country Club, Birkdale Drive, Clayton

Come out and kick off the holiday season at The Neuse with their Christmas Tree Lighting, accompanied by Victorian Carolers in costume! The Neuse is proud to present its new outdoor ice skating rink, which will remain open for the entire month of December. More details on hours and renting skates will be added to our website soon. This event is sponsored by Decks Plus, LLC of Clayton. More details are available at www.facebook.com/events/255344607315353.

Saturday, Dec. 2, 8 a.m.

Pajamas and Pancakes with Santa

Kenly Fire Department, W. 1st Street, Kenly

Enjoy breakfast with a special guest on Saturday, Dec. 2, at the Kenly Fire Department. Children can come dressed in their favorite Christmas pajamas, and breakfast for parents will be available for purchase. For more information, contact the Kenly Chamber of Commerce at 919-284-5510.

Saturday, Dec. 2, 8 a.m.

7th Annual - West Johnston High School FFA Alumni Whobilation Vendor Show

West Johnston High, Raleigh Road, Benson

Who is ready for Christmas? Come out on December 2 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. to get lots of your Christmas shopping done. Help support our local vendors this holiday season by shopping small! Learn more at www.facebook.com/events/276896608606410.

Saturday, Dec. 2, 9 a.m.

Fifth Annual Christmas Craft Fair

Pace Family Farms, Buffalo Road, Clayton

Here’s another chance to knock out a bit of Christmas shopping. More details are available at www.facebook.com/events/688687039754240.

Saturday, Dec. 2, 10 a.m.

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

Smithfield Community Park, M. Durwood Stephenson Pkwy., Smithfield 

The Grinch Run is on Dec. 2 at 10 a.m., and there is also a 5K or a one-mile jog/walk. There is a best costume contest for kids, adults, dogs and duos or families. Strollers and dogs are welcome to come and enjoy the fun. The registration fee is a new unwrapped toy, and all the toys go to the children at Harbor (domestic violence relief) and to the Department of Social Services. For more, visit https://www.smithfield-nc.com/page/christmas_stink_stank_stunk. 

Saturday, Dec. 2, 10 a.m.

Santa's Workshop

Cleveland Elementary School, Cleveland Road, Clayton 

Come out for a huge Santa’s Workshop event! Santa himself will be there for pictures, and kids will have the chance to snag some adorable gifts for the family, tons of holiday crafts, bounce houses, local school band, fire trucks, games and more than 50 vendors and delicious food trucks! Tickets sold at the door. Contact clevelandelementarypta21@gmail.com for more information. 

Saturday, Dec. 2, 10 a.m.

Help Thy Neighbor JOCO Toy Run

Bulldog Harley Davidson, Outlet Center Drive, Smithfield 

The run starts at Bulldog Harley Davidson, second stop at Aversboro Restaurant and Sports Bar and ends at Plan B for food, 50/50 Raffle and music. Toy bins are located at Bulldog Harley Davidson, Plan B Bar, Aversboro Restaurant, TNT Fitness, JoCo Brewing and The Fainting Goat. There will be a special guest for the kids and the chance for pictures with the Grinch and CindyLou at all three stops. All toys and proceeds will go directly to families in need for Christmas! Learn more at www.facebook.com/events/6290934841028297.

Saturday, Dec. 2, 11 a.m.

Four Oaks Christmas Parade

Bring the family and come out for the Annual Four Oaks Christmas Parade down Main Street. Food trucks will be on hand as well.

Saturday, Dec. 2, 1 p.m.

Town of Princeton's Christmas Parade

Princeton holds its annual Christmas parade on the first Saturday of December. Don’t miss the holiday fun.

Saturday, Dec. 2, 3 p.m.

17th Annual Flowers Plantation Christmas Tree Lighting

All are welcome to come join Flowers Plantation and kick off the Christmas Season with its 17th Annual Christmas Tree Lighting! There will be crafts for kids and pictures with Santa located at the Dr. Watson Inn Outdoor Pavilion. The Christmas Tree lighting ceremony begins at the Flowers Parkway roundabout center! In the event of rain, the event will be moved to the following day.

Saturday, Dec. 2, 3 p.m.

Archer Lodge Christmas Celebration

This is a fun filled afternoon that begins with an exciting parade and followed by many fun activities at the Archer Lodge Community Center. Children get to talk to and take pictures with Santa, make reindeer food, go sledding and have some delicious cookies and hot chocolate. 

Dec. 2, 3 p.m.; Dec. 9, noon and Dec. 16, noon

Visit with Santa

Old North State Food Hall, Selma

Santa visits Old North State Food Hall on three Saturday afternoons in December. It’s the perfect photo opportunity and your chance to share your wish list with the jolly old elf.

Saturday, Dec. 2, 7 p.m.

Karaoke Ugly Sweater Party

Old North State Food Hall, Selma

Blitzen’s Tavern and Old North State Food Hall will host a Karaoke Ugly Sweater Party, led by DJ David Charles Price on Dec. 2. There is a $7 cover/bar minimum.

Saturday, Dec. 2, 8 p.m.

The Second City: What the Elf?

Celebrate the season with The Second City's holiday production, What the Elf? The Second City comedy troupe has been entertaining audiences for more than six decades and has served as a launching pad for comedians like Tina Fey, Bill Murray and Mike Myers, to name just a few. Don't miss this humorous and irreverent take on the traditional Christmas tale. (Suggested for audiences 17+). For more, visit www.theclaytoncenter.com/calendar.aspx?EID=1208.

Sunday, Dec. 3, 2 p.m.

Whoville Holiday Happening

Old North State Food Hall, Selma

Check out the Whoville Holiday Happening, a Grinch-themed event for children ages 5 and up. $10 per child includes crafts, activities and a special Grinch dessert from The Ice Storm.

Monday, Dec. 4, 7:30 p.m.

Celtic Angels Christmas

Paul A. Johnston Auditorium, Johnston Community College

Celtic Angels Christmas captivates audiences of all ages with the magic of the season. 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 more, visit www.johnstonccperformingarts.csstix.com/event-details.php?.

Tuesday, Dec. 5, 6 p.m.

Town of Selma Christmas Tree Lighting and Parade

The Selma Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting is the perfect way to begin the holiday season and create a fun tradition with family and friends. Watch as the parade makes its way down Raiford Street through the heart of Selma. See parade entries all lit up with twinkling lights and of course, watch for that most important visitor of all —- Santa Claus!

Tuesday, Dec. 5, 7 p.m.

Christmas in Cleveland

Cleveland Fire Department, Cleveland Road, Clayton

Don’t miss Christmas in Cleveland on December 5 for the annual Christmas Parade, food truck rodeo and, of course, Santa!

Wednesday, Dec. 6, 7 p.m.

Eddie Miles in concert

Rudy Theatre, Selma

Eddie Miles will be performing songs from Elvis's No. 1 Christmas Album, which featured 12 songs and held the top spot on the Billboard Top Pop Albums chart for four weeks. It has since gone three times platinum. Presley's "Elvis' Christmas Album" remains the top-selling Christmas album of all time. For more, visit ci.ovationtix.com/35938/production/1170507.

Thursday, Dec. 7, 11 a.m.

Shopping Spree

The Clayton Center

Clayton Women in Networking presents an opportunity to cross some folks off your Christmas list while supporting area women entrepreneurs. Visit conta.cc/49yHsiv to learn more.

Thursday, Dec. 7, 7 p.m.

Kenly Christmas Parade

Don’t miss Kenly’s annual Christmas parade. The entry form is available at townofkenly.wufoo.com/forms/m7rwylu1gomgvx/.

Thursday, Dec. 7, 6 p.m.

Town of Smithfield Christmas Tree Lighting

Welcome the Holiday season with a Christmas Tree Lighting in Downtown Smithfield. Third Street transforms (from the Howell Theatre to Jewel's Formals) into "Candy Cane Lane." Festivities will include sweet treat food trucks, music, games, face painting and more. 

At 7, they'll light the town's Christmas Tree and a special guest from the North Pole will appear. It's the kickoff of Christmas in Smithfield and it's a fun family event you don't want to miss!

Thursday, Dec. 7, 7 p.m.

94.7 QDR Acoustic Christmas for the Kids

Singer and songwriter Randy Houser — who has been a fixture on the country music charts since 2008 — will headline the benefit concert, while being joined by Florida Georgia Line’s Brian Kelley and rising solo artist Morgan Evans. 94.7 QDR’s 2023 Acoustic Christmas for the Kids Concert marks a continuation of 94.7 QDR’s 20-year partnership with UNC Children’s Hospital. Reserved seating for 94.7 QDR’s Acoustic Christmas Concert will be priced $50 each and VIP tickets – which will offer a pre-show artist meet-and-greet event, heavy hors d’oeuvres, non-alcoholic beverages and a cash bar — will be priced at $100 each. One hundred percent of ticket sale revenue generated from the event will be donated to UNC Children’s Hospital. For more details, visit www.theclaytoncenter.com/calendar.aspx?EID=1250.

Friday, Dec. 8, 6 p.m.

Holiday Movie and Mingle Night

Old North State Food Hall, Selma

Don’t miss Holiday Movie & Mingle Night, featuring best-selling author Nancy Naigle, who will share her behind-the-scenes tales from Hallmark movie sets, along with a lively holiday movie bingo game with prizes. The $30 fee per ticket includes a $20 food and beverage gift card and a bingo card.

Saturday, Dec. 9, noon

Christkindl Market

Old North State Food Hall, Selma

Check out the Christkindl Market, hosted by Small Batch Craft Market, featuring hand-made gift items from local artisans and creators in an outdoor setting and entertainment inside the Food Hall.

Saturday, Dec. 9, 3 p.m.

Town of Clayton Christmas Parade

Clayton will hold its annual Christmas parade on Saturday, Dec. 9 at 3 p.m. For more details, visit www.claytonchristmasparade.org.

Saturday, Dec. 9, 4 p.m.

Micro Christmas Parade 

Micro will hold its annual Christmas Parade Saturday, Dec. 9 from 4-6 p.m. Join in as they celebrate their “Small Town with a Big Heart.” For more information, call the town office at 919-2842572 or visit townofmicro.com.

Sunday, Dec. 10, 3 p.m.

Pine Level Christmas Parade

The Town of Pine Level holds its Christmas parade annually on the second Sunday in December.

Dec. 10, 6 p.m. and Dec. 17, 10:45 a.m.

Bizzell Grove Pentecostal Holiness Church

Bizzell Grove Church Rd., Princeton

The annual Christmas cantatas will be held Sunday, Dec. 10, at 6 p.m. and Sunday, Dec. 17 during the 10:45 a.m. service.

Wednesday, Dec. 13, 7 p.m.

The Embers Christmas Show, featuring Craig Woolard

Rudy Theatre, Selma

Don’t miss the Embers Christmas Show, featuring Craig Woolard. See Rudolf, Frosty and the magic of Christmas, live at the Rudy. For more, visit ci.ovationtix.com/35938/production/1148107?performanceId=11215188.

Thursday, Dec. 14, 6 p.m.

Christmas Trivia for a Cause

Old North State Food Hall, Selma

Trivia teams compete at Blitzen’s to win a donation to their favorite not-for-profit during Christmas Trivia for a Cause. Registration is $10 per person.

Thursday, Dec. 14, 7 p.m.

Smithfield Christmas Parade

It’s time to jingle and mingle with your friends and family as you witness a dazzling display of floats, colorful performers and more at this year’s Smithfield Christmas Parade. Let the vibrant energy of the parade fill you with holiday cheer and joy.

Friday, Dec. 15, 7:30 p.m.

Clayton Piano Festival Holiday Gala

Twin Oaks Barn, Cornwallis Road, Clayton

Clayton Piano Festival’s annual Holiday Gala Concert is always a favorite with our audience. This year’s gala brings a diverse array of musical acts, including New York City based Impromptuo, an innovative improvisation-focused duo made up of violinist Katherine Kyu Hyeon Lim and pianist Joey Chang, internationally touring tenor, Tyrone Chambers, David Richards and the Swingsters Union Band combining the triangle’s most talented Jazz stars, multi-genre vocalist, Angelique Alexander and CPF Artistic Director, Jonathan Levin. Come celebrate the season with us! Tickets are available at www.eventbrite.com/e/clayton-piano-festival-holiday-gala-tickets-715738472037.

Saturday, Dec. 16, 11 a.m.

Wreaths for Uncle

Selma Memorial Gardens, U.S. 301 and 70, Selma

Wreaths Across America volunteers are working hard across the nation to raise funding and awareness for the upcoming memorial event. Evey Morgan, a 15-year-old high school junior, is the local event coordinator and location organizer for the annual event held in Selma in memory of her Uncle LtC. Michael Fields, the “Wreaths for Uncle” ceremony is scheduled for

Saturday, December 16. To learn more, visit www.wreathsacrossamerica.org/pages/173766/overview.

Saturday, Dec. 16, Noon to 2 p.m.

Sweets-n-Treats With Santa

Parker Pharmacy, U.S. 301 S., Four Oaks

Drop by for cookies with Santa and fun activities for the kids.

Tuesday, Dec. 19, 7 p.m.

Deep River Brewing Company, Main St., Clayton

Christmas Movie Trivia

Come out for a fun night of Christmas movie trivia.

Saturday, Dec. 23, 10 a.m.

The Polar Express

Howell Theatre, 3rd Street, Smithfield

Catch a free showing of “The Polar Express” at Howell Theatre to soak up a bit of last-minute Christmas spirit.

Saturday, Dec. 30, 6 p.m.

Liquid Pleasure in concert

Benson Little Theater, E. Church St., Benson

Finish off 2023 on a high note with Liquid Pleasure, a salute to Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell, brought to you by the Benson Little Theater. For tickets and information, visit www.bensonlittletheater.com.

Sunday, Dec. 31, 9 p.m.

Happy New Year 2024

Rudy Theatre, Selma

Check out a tribute to Elvis Presley and Patsy Cline, with Travis Powell from Myrtle Beach as Elvis and Diane Bailey as Patsy Cline. Dayle Eason will also perform as the Country Crooner. It’s a three hour show, so bring in the New Year live at the Rudy Theatre.

Sunday, Dec. 31, 8 p.m.

New Year's Eve on The Farm at 95 feat. Band Of Oz

Come ring in 2024 with Band of Oz on 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 from Backyard Bistro, photo booth and access to the cash bar! This show is indoors! Complete details and pricing are at www.facebook.com/events/1805560913198573.

Sunday, Dec. 31, 8 p.m.

New Year's Eve Celebration featuring The Copper Piano-Dueling Pianos

Hinnant Family Vineyards, Pine Level

Bring in the New Year with Hinnant Family Vineyards! Join in the fun with The Copper Piano Dueling Pianos all night long. Dust off your cocktail attire and come bring in the New Year in style! If you've seen dueling pianos before, then you already know how much fun it will be! Imagine two pianos, your favorite song requests, a lot of singing, a ton of dancing and a bunch of laughter! Complimentary refreshments (a charcuterie grazing table) and a glass of Champagne to toast in the New Year will be provided. Pricing and details are at www.facebook.com/events/836096464311801.