As the winter chill starts to nip at our heels, the N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources is bringing back its roster of festive events perfect for families looking to get into the holiday spirit. From the grandeur of classical music performances to historical celebrations and train rides straight out of a storybook, there's something for every stripe of holiday reveler, and many of these spirited affairs come with little to no impact on the wallet – which is always a merry proposition.
According to the N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources, music aficionados can revel in the "Cirque Holiday Pops" event on Nov. 26 and 28, where acrobats will perform feats of wonder alongside the North Carolina Symphony, as noted in the events calendar. But if you're looking for something that caters to the little ones, then THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride at the North Carolina Transportation Museum, happening Nov. 28-30, might just be the ticket. Children are encouraged to don pajamas for this adventure, probably not unlike many of our Sunday routines, and join in on what promises to be an enchanting ride.
History buffs or fans of the more subdued may want to pencil in "Christmas by Candlelight" at the Horne Creek Living Historical Farm on Nov. 29, which will take visitors back in time to a 19th-century seasonal celebration. Or, if you're keen to see how Santa Claus ties in with maritime history, you're in luck. Fort Macon State Park is set to unravel the history of everyone's favorite jolly man in red on Dec. 4, free of entry, according to the NC Maritime Museum Beaufort's events page.
December is packed with events, ranging from candlelight tours at historic sites to hands-on colonial Christmas experiences at the Museum of the Albemarle. Plus, let’s not forget the ugly sweater aficionados. Yes, you get your very own "Ugly Sweater Holiday Pops" with the North Carolina Symphony on Dec. 13. Don your garish knits and enjoy a toe-tapping good time, because nothing quite says 'holiday cheer' like a symphony paired with an atrocious woolen pullover.
The N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources has put together a comprehensive package of events aimed at making this holiday season memorable for North Carolinians of all ages.
