The City of Kannapolis is currently hosting its annual Celebration of Lights at Village Park, bringing a festive atmosphere with hundreds of thousands of lights and dozens of displays. The event, according to an announcement on the City of Kannapolis website, will run through December 30, though it will be closed on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. The village transforms into a winter wonderland from 6-9 p.m. Sundays through Thursdays, and 6-10 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, except for the mentioned holiday closures.
Visitors can fully embrace the spirit of the season, as they're invited to "ride one of our two Winterland Express trains and count down the 12 Days of Christmas as you view unique holiday light displays from the popular song." Tickets for attractions such as the carousel and the train can quickly be purchased on a first-come basis each evening. With tickets priced at just $2 per person, it's an opportunity for families to reasonably enjoy the festive offerings, as per the City of Kannapolis.
The Celebration of Lights also brings the opportunity to ride the Village Park Double Decker Carousel, a ride that radiates the joy of the season with its 1,800 lights and Venetian murals. Moreover, Santa Claus is set to make appearances every evening for children and families to visit and take free photos - an added delight for those crafting their Christmas memories.
For musical entertainment, Maestro Leonard Bearstein and his Leonard Bearstein Symphony Orchestra return this year with "their holiday magic in Kannapolis." The 18-piece animatronic bear ensemble entertains with holiday classics and instrumental charm. Nearby, the Kannapolis Singing Bears and the Chuckles Quartet will perform Christmas Carols, adding to the celebratory ambience, according to the City of Kannapolis.
Apart from the light dazzle and the amusement rides, the event also includes a holiday marketplace featuring local artisans. Throughout the month-long event, food trucks will also be on site, complemented by concessions offering holiday crafts and the classic experience of s’mores around a fire pit. The items reflective of the city’s festive cheer, including Christmas ornaments, are available for purchase at the concession stands.
For those looking to attend, admission to the Kannapolis Celebration of Lights at Village Park is free, though tickets for the train and carousel rides come at a minimal cost. Full event details and ticket reservations for the Winterland Express are available through the link provided by the city. Local organization Kinetic proudly supports as a Display Sponsor for this year's luminous festivities.
