7 Magical Must-Do's At The Light The Knights Festival 2025-2026: Your Ultimate Guide To Charlotte's Winter Wonderland
Get ready to experience the most dazzling holiday tradition in the Queen City! The spectacular Light the Knights Festival is officially set to return to Truist Field in Charlotte, North Carolina, transforming the home of the Charlotte Knights into a massive, unforgettable winter wonderland. This year, the 6th Annual festival, presented in partnership with Truist, promises an even bigger and brighter experience for families, couples, and holiday enthusiasts across the region.
As of today, December 19, 2025, the latest details confirm the festival will run from late November 2025 through early January 2026. This comprehensive guide breaks down everything you need to know about the 2025-2026 event, from the official dates and hours to the most exciting attractions that make this festival an essential part of your holiday season.
Light the Knights Festival 2025-2026: Dates, Location, and Essential Profile
The Light the Knights Festival has rapidly established itself as a premier holiday destination in Uptown Charlotte, drawing tens of thousands of visitors each season. It successfully repurposes the baseball stadium into a multi-faceted entertainment venue, offering unique winter activities that you won't find anywhere else in the city. The 2025-2026 edition is poised to be the most expansive yet, building on the success of previous years.
- Event Name: Light the Knights Festival (6th Annual)
- Location: Truist Field, 324 S Mint Street, Charlotte, NC 28202
- Host/Organizer: The Charlotte Knights (Minor League Baseball Team)
- Presenting Partner: Truist
- 2025-2026 Dates: Wednesday, November 26, 2025, through Sunday, January 4, 2026
- Primary Attractions: Ice Skating, Snow Tubing, Holiday Lights Displays, Santa Visits, Holiday Market, and Festive Treats
- Ticket Cost Range: $12 - $45 (Varies based on date, time, and package chosen)
The festival's hours vary significantly, so prospective visitors are strongly advised to check the official Charlotte Knights or Truist Field event calendar for the specific date they plan to attend, especially for peak weekends and holidays. Parking is typically available in surrounding Uptown Charlotte lots and decks, though it is not included in the ticket price.
The Top 7 Magical Attractions You Can't Miss
What sets the Light the Knights Festival apart is its unique combination of classic winter activities with the festive atmosphere of a major league stadium. Here are the seven main attractions that draw the biggest crowds and create the most holiday cheer:
1. The Regulation-Size Ice Skating Rink
At the heart of Truist Field, the baseball diamond is transformed into a massive, regulation-size ice skating rink. This is one of the most popular activities, offering a classic winter experience with the stunning backdrop of the Uptown Charlotte skyline. Whether you're a seasoned skater or a beginner, the rink provides a perfect opportunity for a fun, active outing. Skates are available for rental, making it easy for anyone to join the fun.
2. Thrilling Snow Tubing Runs
Forget driving to the mountains—you can experience the rush of snow tubing right in the city! The festival features dedicated snow tubing lanes that are a massive hit with both children and adults. Riders use tubes to slide down a specially constructed, icy slope. This high-energy attraction offers a unique, adrenaline-pumping break from the more traditional holiday activities and is a key feature that makes the festival stand out as a true winter wonderland.
3. The Tens of Thousands of Holiday Lights
The name "Light the Knights" comes from the breathtaking display of holiday lights and decor that blankets the entire stadium. Visitors can wander through various themed light displays, perfect for capturing stunning holiday photos. The sheer volume of lights—tens of thousands—creates a warm, glowing atmosphere that is the essence of the holiday season. The light displays are meticulously designed, offering a fresh visual experience each year.
4. Visits with Santa Claus in Claus' Kitchen
No holiday festival is complete without a chance to meet the big man himself. The festival features dedicated areas for Santa visits, often referred to as "Claus' Kitchen" or similar festive names. This provides a perfect, memorable opportunity for children to share their wish lists and for families to take professional holiday portraits. The setup is designed to be cozy and magical, away from the typical mall rush.
5. The Holiday Village and Shopping Experience
Beyond the rides and activities, a vibrant Holiday Village is set up for guests looking to find unique gifts. This market features local vendors, artisans, and small businesses selling crafts, apparel, and specialty holiday items. This shopping component supports the local Charlotte community while allowing visitors to find one-of-a-kind stocking stuffers and holiday decorations.
6. Festive Treats and Holiday Concessions
The culinary experience at Light the Knights is a major draw. Stadium concession stands are transformed to offer classic holiday treats and seasonal beverages. Visitors can warm up with hot cocoa, spiced cider, and indulge in holiday-themed snacks like roasted nuts, specialty cookies, and other festive fare. This adds an important sensory layer to the overall experience, making it feel truly like a holiday celebration.
7. Special Themed Nights and Community Events
The festival often partners with local organizations like Atrium Health to offer special community nights, discounted admissions, or themed events throughout its run. These nights might include live music, carolers, or specific promotions aimed at military families, first responders, or local youth groups. Checking the official schedule for these unique "event-within-an-event" nights is highly recommended for added value and a fresh experience.
Planning Your Visit to Charlotte's Premier Winter Event
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience at the Light the Knights Festival, keep these updated tips in mind for the 2025-2026 season:
- Book Early: Tickets for popular activities like ice skating and snow tubing often sell out, especially on weekends and the week leading up to Christmas. Purchasing tickets online and in advance is highly recommended to secure your spot and potentially save money.
- Check Packages: The festival often offers bundled packages that include admission plus an activity (like skating or tubing) for a single price. Compare these to purchasing activities a la carte.
- Dress Warmly: While Charlotte's winter is mild, the outdoor activities at Truist Field, especially the ice rink and snow tubing, can be quite chilly. Dress in layers, including hats, gloves, and warm socks.
- Parking Strategy: Allow extra time for parking, as the Uptown area can be busy during the holiday season. The Mint Street Parking Garage is a common option, but be prepared for a short walk to Truist Field.
The Light the Knights Festival is more than just a collection of activities; it's a cherished Charlotte tradition that brings the community together to celebrate the magic of the holiday season. Don't miss the 6th Annual event running from November 26, 2025, to January 4, 2026, for a truly memorable winter experience in North Carolina.
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