Friday, November 28, 2025 - Wednesday, December 31, 2025
12:00 PM

Celebrate the Magic of Christmas in Elizabeth City!

There is something truly special about the holiday season in Elizabeth City. Whether you're a lifelong local or visiting for the season, there are so many ways to experienced the magic of Christmas right here in Elizabeth City.

 

November 28 – Holiday Celebration & Grand Illumination | 6 – 8 p.m. 

Join us downtown for our beloved Grand Illumination, the streets come alive with music and laughter, and the official lighting ceremony sets the holiday season in motion. Enjoy free hot cocoa and plenty of photo ops. There’s no better way to kick off Christmas in Elizabeth City than under a canopy of lights.

November 28 – January 3 – 5th annual Hot Cocoa Crawl 

Back by popular demand, the Hot Cocoa Crawl is your chance to explore downtown one cup at a time. Participating restaurants, coffee houses, and boutiques are serving up creative twists on everyone’s favorite winter drink from traditional rich blends to spiced, flavored, and whipped-cream-topped wonders.

November 29 – Small Business Saturday 

Support the heartbeat of our community by shopping local. Elizabeth City’s downtown boutiques, galleries, and specialty stores are pulling out all the stops for Small Business Saturday. Expect holiday goodies, and unique gift ideas you won’t find anywhere else.

December 7, December 13, December 20, December 27 

Join us for festive mule drawn carriage rides downtown from 4pm – 6 pm starting at the Pasquotank County Courthouse located at 206 East Main Street.  The rides are free but donations are appreciated to keep the tradition going.  On December 5^th from 4pm -7pm holiday carriage rides will be available starting at Hoppin Johnz 606 East Colonial Avenue.

December 1 – 31 – Holiday Window Decorating Contest 

Our downtown businesses are getting festive with a little friendly competition. As you shop, dine, and explore this December, take a moment to enjoy the beautifully decorated storefronts. Each window is a tribute to holiday creativity, some whimsical, some classic, all magical. Don’t forget to cast your vote for the best window online or in person!

December 5 – First Friday ArtWalk | 4 – 7 p.m.

Elizabeth City’s vibrant art scene takes center stage during First Friday ArtWalk. Enjoy an evening of culture and creativity as downtown businesses open their doors with local artwork and specialty items.

December 5 – Lighted Boat Parade | 7 – 8:30 p.m. 

Stick around after ArtWalk for one of our most magical traditions. The Lighted Boat Parade turns the Pasquotank River into a river of lights as boats decorated from bow to stern cruise past the waterfront. Bundle up, bring a chair, and enjoy a show that floats!

December 6 – SantaCon & Holiday Tree Beehive Hair Party | 1 – 5 p.m. 

Get ready for the quirkiest event of the season! SantaCon and Holiday Tree Beehive Hair Party are taking over downtown as a merry band of Santas and towering, tinsel-topped hairdos hit the streets spreading holiday cheer, laughter, and just the right amount of chaos.

December 6 – Annual Holiday Parade | 5:30 p.m. 

Stick around for the Elizabeth City Holiday Parade, a hometown tradition that lights up the streets with marching bands, decorated floats, dancers, local groups, and of course, Santa Claus himself. The parade begins at 5:30 p.m. and winds through downtown with holiday magic for the whole family.

December 31 – New Year’s Eve River Lights Lantern Parade | 6 – 8 p.m. 

Close out the season, and the year, with a peaceful and beautiful tradition. The River Lights Lantern Parade welcomes 2026 with handmade lanterns, and community togetherness. Walk along with your lantern or simply watch the glowing procession light up the night. It’s a serene and symbolic way to reflect and look ahead.

 

For a full list of events and updates, visit www.visitelizabethcity.com/Christmas

 

 

 

 

 

Admission: Free Admission

Purchase Tickets Online

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