Holiday Activities in Charlotte’s South End: 2023

From the return of Shop Small Saturday to seasonally themed cocktail classes, the holiday season is underway in South End. Within those offerings are new events and go-to favorites alike. Below, we’ve included a sampling of those activities, with both family-friendly and adults-only options:

Nov. 16-18 (6:30 p.m.-8 p.m.): Holiday Cocktails for Entertaining Class at The Cocktailery
This cocktail class includes cocktails like winter punches, sparkling fizzes, rich and creamy eggnogs, warm concoctions, and more. $90. The Cocktailery, 2000 South Blvd.

Nov. 20 (6:30 p.m.): Flower Workshop – Thanksgiving Centerpiece
Learn how to use fresh flowers and seasonal greens to craft your Thanksgiving Day centerpiece or host gift. Vin Master will provide wine and bites at this event, and all materials and supplies are included. $70. Vin Master Wine Shop, 2000 South Blvd.

Nov. 25 (11 a.m.-5 p.m.): Shop Small Saturday
Presented by Lowe’s Home Improvement, Shop Small Saturday is back in South End on Nov. 25, with open-air markets alongside unique retail at Atherton and along Camden Road. There will be more than 120 vendors, the South End Famer’s Market with 50+ vendors (8 a.m.-3 p.m.); and the chance to get a South End Tote Bag if you fill up a Shop Small Hero Card. Free.

Nov. 30 (4 p.m.-7 p.m.): Second Annual South End Holiday Tree Lighting at The RailYard
The Second Annual Holiday Tree Lighting at The Railyard includes live music, carolers, hot chocolate, treats, and more. Activities include ornament-making, yard games, and even appearance from Santa himself. The tree lighting arrives at dusk. Free. The RailYard, 1414 South Tryon St.

Dec. 3 (11 a.m.-2 p.m.): Free Holiday Photo + Essentials Drive Activation
Grab your friends, family, pet, or bring yourself to get a free holiday photo on the Rail Trail! The photos will take place in front of the Rail Trail Chalkboard, which will be decorated with a holiday-themed chalk mural. Then, get in the spirit of giving with an Essentials Drive hosted by Charlotte Center City Partners. Donations can include (but are not limited to) full-size body wash and body lotion, full-size shampoo and conditioner, laundry pods, dryer sheets, composition books, and journals. The Holiday Photo and Essentials Drive event is presented by U.S. Bank.

Dec. 3 (3 p.m.-5 p.m.): Wreath Making Class
Jach Flora and Charlotte Collective host this class, where you can learn step-by-step techniques in making wreaths and adorning them with lights, ornaments, and more. $55. Charlotte Collective, 110 West Blvd.

Dec. 7 (6 p.m.-8 p.m.): Pups, Paint, & Pints: Present Edition
Skiptown CLT hosts this event, during which attendees can paint a pet portrait as a present for loved ones. Registration includes supplies, a day pass at Skiptown, the canvas, and two hours of instruction from artist Seann Vicente. $50. Skiptown CLT, 222 Rampart St.

Dec. 9 (11 a.m.-2 p.m.): Santa Claus in South End at Trolley Barn Fermentory & Food Hall
Santa Claus returns to South End with an appearance at Trolley Barn Fermentory & Food Hall. Free. Trolley Barn Fermentory & Food Hall, 2104 South Blvd.

Dec. 14 (4 p.m.-6 p.m.): 100 Free Cupcakes with SWIRL Cupcakes
The first 100 people to come by SWIRL will receive a free, seasonally flavored cupcake. SWIRL, 2822 South Blvd., Unit B.

When you’re shopping in South End over the next month, also remember: From Nov. 27-Dec. 18, participating businesses will feature three limited-time South End stickers that shoppers can get for free with any purchase in the store. A new sticker will be available each week, releasing on the Monday of that week (Nov. 27, Dec. 4, Dec.11). Learn more here.

And that’s just a taste of what’s ahead for the season in South End. Head here for more upcoming holiday activities throughout November and December.