Charlotte Parent Charlotte Dec 2019

December 2019 • Free

Screens and Sleepovers DO THEY MIX?

LASTMINUTE GIFTS MERRY MEMBERSHIPS NYE WITH KIDS HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS

6

HOLIDAY DO’S & DON’TS

TAME

Tantrums charlotteparent.com | DECEMBER 2019

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CONTENT › DECEMBER 2019

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Last-Minute Holiday Gift Ideas So good, they will think you’ve been planning for months

16

Merry Memberships Gift a membership of experiences that lasts all year long

18

Ring in the New Year as a Family Whether at home or out-and-about, this is your guide to celebrating with kids

IN EVERY ISSUE 2 5 8 10 11 21 33

Editor’s Letter FYI Growing Up Thrive Families Managing Media Excursion Daddy Derek

12 21

CALENDAR 22 23 24 28 32

Our Picks Daily Calendar On Stage Holiday Happenings Holiday Events for Children With Special Needs

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16 charlotteparent.com | DECEMBER 2019

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EDITOR’S NOTE

What’s in a Decade?

I

morrismedianetwork.com

started 2010 with a 4-monthold baby — my first baby. That baby is now looking ahead

to middle school. We bought a house and moved, renovated a kitchen, and added another child to our family. That child is now a determined 4-year-old who loves all things superheroes. And we have a four-legged furry family member that came along in 2017.

A lot can happen in 10 years. Charlotte’s skyline has changed dramatically with new towers and apartments. Mecklenburg County’s population now exceeds 1 million. Toll lanes opened on I-77. Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools made assignment changes that moved many students and families to different schools.

New school board and city council members represent the everchanging demographic of Charlotte. The past decade has seen two presidents with very different perspectives, and a presidential impeachment inquiry.

Through all the changes, the innocence, curiosity and love in the hearts of children stays strong. It’s innate. Through the years, it seems we, as adults, can loose some of our child-like spirit. Stress and reality take their toll, but when life feels overwhelming, the care-free, can-do attitudes of children is something to emulate. Happiness, kindness and silliness are forever worthy attributes.

The holiday season is a good time to slow down and regroup. It’s a time to unite as a community, reach out to neighbors and share in the spirit of the season. Santa is making his rounds, holiday decorations and lights are

EDITOR Michele Huggins

ART DIRECTOR Melissa Stutts

DIGITAL CONTENT DIRECTOR Andy Smith • andy.smith@morris.com

MEDIA CONSULTANTS Kathy Thompson • kathy.thompson@morris.com

MORRIS MEDIA NETWORK DIRECTOR OF MANUFACTURING Donald Horton

DIRECTOR OF PUBLISHING SERVICES Karen Fralick

PRODUCTION COORDINATOR Cher Wheeler

CONTACT US charlotteparent.com 214 W. Tremont Ave., Suite 302, Charlotte, NC 28203 phone: 704-344-1980 • fax: 704-344-1983 email: info@charlotteparent.com advertising@charlotteparent.com Circulation 35,000. Distribution of this magazine does not constitute an endorsement of information, products or services. Charlotte Parent reserves the right to reject any advertisement or listing that is not in keeping with the publication’s standards. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited.

sparkling around town, and the choices of where to go to enjoy the holiday are extensive. Check out our calendar for all the holiday performances and happenings around town. And to round out your holiday gift list, be sure to read the story Merry Memberships on page 16 for some ideas on local museums and venues that serve up fun all year long.

I hope you and yours can find time to slow down and revel in the moments of holiday magic this month, and relax before you hit a new decade running in 2020.

HAVE IDEAS TO SHARE? Email editor@charlotteparent.com.

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DECEMBER 2019 | charlotteparent.com

A Publication of the Visitor Publications Division of Morris Communications Company, L.L.C. 725 Broad St., Augusta, GA 30901 Chairman President & CEO William S. Morris III William S. Morris IV

Holiday Hoopla Parades, tree-lightings and Santa sightings. There’s a lot to love about holidays in the Queen City. Let us help you stay up to date with all the holiday cheer for families.

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December 2019 • Free

Screens and Sleepovers DO THEY MIX?

LASTMINUTE GIFTS MERRY MEMBERSHIPS NYE WITH KIDS HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS

6

HOLIDAY DO’S & DON’TS

TAME

Tantrums

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charlotteparent.com | DECEMBER 2019

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STEP INTO A WORLD OF HOLIDAY FUN. SELECT DAYS

NOV 24 – DEC 31

Immerse yourself in a world of holiday spirit at the return of WinterFest at Carowinds. Where the park will be transformed into a glittering winter landscape, with ice skating, festive characters, rides and live shows.

Visit carowinds.com to learn more.

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DECEMBER 2019 | charlotteparent.com

Don’t miss the all-new

• Dazzling Lights • Extravagant Floats • Talented Performers • A Special Appearance By Santa Claus

Plan a day to skate at the outdoor ice rink on the upper pond at the U.S. National Whitewater Center. Courtesy of USNWC

Two New Outdoor Ice Rinks Open for Holiday Skating Take to the ice this year at two new outdoor ice-skating rinks. The U.S. National Whitewater Center’s ice-skating rink is located at the upper pond of the whitewater river and features 17,000 square feet of ice. Experience a 600-foot ice trail along the perimeter of the upper pond in addition to a free skate area and an activity zone where guests can participate in winter sports. In addition to the ice rink, a new sensory experience called “Lights” illuminates the forest. Created by Charlotte artist Meredith Connelly, “Lights” is a half-mile walking trail that leads viewers through a series of immersive light installations featuring honeycombs, vines, crystals and other natural features that are integrated into the forest. “Lights” and ice-skating are included in a $20 day pass that also includes skate rental and access to other activities. There also is a skate-up airstream with beverage service.

Another outdoor ice rink new to the area opens in downtown Belmont in the Mill Street parking lot Dec. 5-7, during Belmont’s Christmas Village event. In addition to the 40-by-50-foot outdoor ice rink, enjoy music, a bounce house, a carousel, large slide, a human snow globe and food trucks. Cost is $5 per 20-minute skate session. Find more details at facebook.com/visitbelmontnc.

Hornets Introduce Sensory Room at Spectrum Center When the buzzers, lights, cheers and crowds of a Hornets game become too much for Hornets fans who experience sensory issues, take a break in the new sensory room. Guests with sensory issues can relax in a lightly colored, dimly lit room that has textured art, special seating and seclusion from the arena buzzers and horns. Also available this season are sensory bags that can be checked out free of charge at guest experience booths in section 102 or 208. Each bag has noise-cancelling headphones, fidget items, verbal cue cards, and weighted lap pads upon request.

Chick-fil-A also takes center court as the “exclusive chicken sandwich and chicken nuggets partner of the Charlotte Hornets.” As part of welcoming Chick-fil-A, the Hornets introduced a Nine for Nuggets promotion in which fans in attendance receive a free order of Chick-fil-A Nuggets when the Hornets record nine blocks or more in a home game. That’s a win-win for everybody. nba.com/hornets.

Santa’s Bag Holiday Tradition Continues For kids who want to buy a gift for family and friends, including Mom and Dad, The Holiday Shop at ImaginOn has you covered. The Holiday Shop is a fundraiser for Children’s Theatre of Charlotte at ImaginOn, which includes Santa’s Bag and the ENCORE! Boutique. Children ages 10 and younger can shop Santa’s Bag with the help of a volunteer “elf.” Gifts are priced 50 cents to $6, and wrapped so only the purchaser and “elf” friend know what was purchased.

While younger children shop Santa’s Bag, tweens, teens and adults can pick up a gift from a local vendor at the ENCORE! Boutique also at ImaginOn. The event happens Dec. 4-7. Admission is free, but be prepared to wait in line. Find a printable shopping list at ctcharlotte.org.

DECEMBER 2019

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DECEMBER 2019 | charlotteparent.com

FYI

Holiday Joy, Without the Pain Slips, falls or tweaking your back from lifting heavy items or cranking through long lists of holiday tasks is not what you want this holiday season. Ergonomics, or the science of adjusting a space or workplace to an individual’s needs, can actually be the key to making your surroundings safer, eliminating discomfort and decreasing risk of injury. Carol Green, a physical therapist with OrthoCarolina, says we are especially susceptible to injury during the rush of the season as we try to multitask and get everything done. Read on for a few ways to keep that jolly spirit by avoiding common holiday hazards.

1.

Tree threats. Christmas trees are joyous, but also heavy and cumbersome. Whether you are retrieving it from the attic or buying fresh from a lot, have two to three people help with the task to keep back pain at bay.

2.

Heavy lifting. Whether unpacking décor or lifting gift boxes, bend your knees and stick your seat out behind you while you keep your back flat (not rounded) to save the back and reduce stress to the muscles, ligaments and discs.

3.

Wrapping weariness. Wrapping presents can be time-consuming and fatiguing to your body. Put the presents on a table and sit to wrap part of the time, and alternate between sitting and standing. If you have large presents to wrap, put them on a kitchen counter which keeps you from having to lean over and prevents back pain and neck pain.

4.

Cooking for a crowd. Prepping those delicious meals takes many hours. While standing, change your stance periodically to avoid leg and low back pain.

Occasionally sit on a high stool while cooking or chopping to reduce back and leg stress, and fatigue.

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FYI | people

Best advice ever received: Lisa Toohey from “Cake Expressions by Lisa” gave me my first bit of incredible advice when she said “Buy a bigger mixer.” It sounds so simple, but as a home bakery I was making 100-plus cakes and still using a small KitchenAid mixer. And Miranda Miller from “Got What it Cakes” told me to raise my pricing to reflect the work that I was creating.

Proudest parenting moment: There have been plenty, but if I narrowed it down to the best-of-the-best, I would say its every time my son Theo says he wants to be a baker when he grows up.

Ella Stone, owner of Celestial Cakery and SWIRL with her husband Curtis Stone and children Theo and Olly. Courtesy of Ashley Gantt photography

Get to Know: Ella Stone

BY MICHELE HUGGINS

E

lla Stone is the owner of Charlotte-based businesses Celestial Cakery and SWIRL. She and her husband Curtis Stone have two children, Theo, age 5, and Olly, age 1.

Where in Charlotte do you live and where did you grow up? I grew up just outside of Richmond, Virginia and moved to Charlotte to attend Johnson & Wales University.

After graduating with degrees in baking, food service, and culinary arts I bought a house with my husband in the Oakhurst neighborhood and started baking from home as Ella’s Celestial Cakes.

Tell us about your job. What do you like most about it? What are the challenges?

Celestial Cakery is an award-winning wedding and custom cake bakery. Most recently, I opened SWIRL, which has a focus on madeto-order cupcakes, ice cream and assorted desserts. My favorite part is the look on someone’s face when they see their custom cake for the first time or bite into a made-toorder cupcake. Being the boss also allows me the flexibility to take a day off or leave early without anyone’s approval. I truly love what I’ve built and I’m thankful every day for the opportunity to continue baking.

Days are long, and I often have to swap family time for a cake tasting or delivery. The daily challenge starts at 7 a.m. when I get up to exercise, then get the kids ready for school,

bake everything before the shop opens, answer emails and phone calls throughout the day, then host tastings for newly engaged couples before heading back out to pick up the kids, eat dinner, and fall asleep around midnight.

What is your favorite thing about raising a family in Charlotte? It’s an awesome feeling to know that the city I’m raising my children in is also growing everyday. There is always a new park, new restaurant or new something.

What’s your recipe for success to juggle family life and work life? Ask for help, there’s no other way. My husband has incredible focus and determination that helps keep the bakeries and our family moving in the right direction. My mom lives next door and is always ready to play with my sons if I’m working late. My mother-inlaw is on permanent retainer every Saturday for babysitting and has been one of the most inspiring and helpful people in my circle for years. I’m thankful for having enough people in my circle to lean on and continue doing what I love.

Lowest parenting moment: It’s less of a specific moment and more of a daily struggle. When I had my first son Theo, I was able to devote a lot of attention to him as he grew. He only went to daycare a couple days a week, I breastfed for over a year, and in general felt like he was always close by.

As my bakery has grown and split into two, I feel like my second son, Olly, is getting the short end of the stick. He goes to daycare five days a week, has to spend most Saturdays with a grandma because I’m working, I stopped breastfeeding before six months, and in general I find myself with far less time or energy to enjoy his company.

What are three things you can’t live without? My kids (they replenish my energy and I wouldn’t be doing any of this is if weren’t for their hugs and kisses every day), coffee, and new restaurants (I’m a huge foodie).

Fave Instagram influencer: @thehayleycakes Last book read: “The Witches of New York”

by Ami McKay. What inspires you? Other people’s success.

Seeing what other people are able to achieve lays the groundwork for what I know is possible, and inspires me to always do better than I did the day before.

Michele Huggins is the editor of this magazine. charlotteparent.com | DECEMBER 2019

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GROWING UP melting down, but keep in mind that your child doesn’t want to lose control any more than you want him to, and the tantrum is likely a distressing experience for him, too.

Because older children are probably better able to talk about their feelings than toddlers and preschoolers, choose a calm moment to talk about what might be triggering these meltdowns. Next, help your child develop strategies for self-soothing to stop a tantrum before it starts. Research done at Stanford University shows that deep breathing dials down anxiety that can lead to tantrums. Try a fidget spinner exercise: Have your child give their fidget spinner a twirl, then breathe deeply in and out until it stops spinning.

Transform Tantrums

Helping children handle the strongest of feelings

BY MALIA JACOBSON

A

toddler throwing a theatrical tantrum in the grocery store can make any parent feel like shrieking in frustration, but tantrums are part of the development process as children learn to manage hard feelings. Tantrums may be normal, particularly during the preschool years, but that doesn’t mean we, as parents, must accept them as a way of life. Read on for age-by-age strategies to help diffuse anger, calm chaos and turn tantrums around.

EARLY YEARS

Cooling Off A toddler or preschooler who throws tantrums is probably perfectly normal: 75 percent of kids experience tantrums between ages 3 and 5, and the mean age for tantrum behavior is 4.5, according to research by the National Center for Biotechnology Information. Tantrums that regularly disrupt school or home life — or those in which a child becomes violent or destructive — however, are signs your child may be struggling with overwhelming emotions or dealing with a challenging transition, says licensed counselor Leslie Petruk, a play therapist at The Stone Center for Counseling and Leadership in Charlotte.

Other signs include regressive behavior like a sudden return to bedwetting, thumbsucking or baby talk, an increase in sibling fighting, and aggressive or defiant behavior.

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DECEMBER 2019 | charlotteparent.com

“These are ways that children communicate that they’re struggling, and that often can be related to transitions. For some children, a change in routine creates major anxiety,” Petruk says.

To help diffuse tantrums, Petruk teaches parents the three Cs: calm, curious and collaboration. “If you calmly reflect your child’s feelings and become curious about why they’re upset, you can then collaborate with your child by figuring out what will help them feel better.”

ELEMENTARY YEARS

Fits and Starts Around first or second grade, the number of children having tantrums tapers. After age 8, there’s another significant drop, but for the one in five kids aged 6 to 8 that display uncontrollable emotions via temper tantrums, these outbursts can be disruptive, upsetting, even shameful. Exasperated parents may be fed up and ready to punish older children for

TEEN YEARS

In Control Bonafide temper tantrums are rare for teens.

Communicating anger with outbursts that feature yelling, door slamming, tears or namecalling is more the norm.

Learning to regulate strong emotions is still in process for teens, says board certified pediatrician Charles I. Shubin of Mercy Medical Center in Baltimore. He suggests the behavior modification approach: positively reinforcing desirable behaviors along the lines of “I appreciated how you talked through that conflict at the store without yelling,” and ignoring unacceptable ones, which might sound like “I’m not going to continue this conversation until you can lower your voice.”

Make sure your teen knows your family’s rules and expectations for behavior, such as “we don’t scream at each other,” or “when things get heated, we take a break to cool down.” Finally, when your teen shows emotional maturity during a difficult conversation, offer a sincere compliment.

Recognizing signs of growth, even small ones, can go a long way toward encouraging emotional and behavioral regulation, and fewer angry outbursts in the future.

Malia Jacobson is a nationally published health journalist and author of “Ready, Set, Sleep: 50 Ways to Help Your Child Sleep, So You Can Sleep Too.”

Having better health means you can live a better life. It’s what we all want for ourselves, our families and our community. At Atrium Health, that’s what drives us every day. We’re always pursuing a higher bar, a higher standard, to find better ways to care for you – so that we can all enjoy a better life.

charlotteparent.com | DECEMBER 2019

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THRIVE due to diminished meltdowns and setting realistic expectations for what we can do. Set some time away for one-on-one activities with each child if you can, and remember to be in the present moment.

Get some exercise. We know the benefits of exercising, yet we don’t often make it a priority.

The holiday season is no exception, even when it is most beneficial to combat high stress.

Exercise doesn’t require a gym membership.

Any type of physical activity, whether indoors or not, can be beneficial to taming stress. Yoga, walking, dancing and mindfulness are activities to help relax your body and mind, many of which can be done at home with the help of an app or streaming video session.

Overcoming Holiday Hurdles

Maintaining sanity while making memories

BY BEA MOISE

I

love everything about the holiday season, from the chill in the air to food and decorations, but having a child with special needs can add a layer of challenge to the holidays. In the early years of our son Jacob’s life, I worried about holiday outings as a family. Jacob is on the autism spectrum. We also have an older daughter is typically developing. The majority of our early parenting with Jacob involved doing things separately because we feared the cost was too great to be together and have to bail. It was extremely stressful. Navigating the crowds to take a picture with Santa — not worth it!

Over time, and after many failed attempts and some success, we are able to experience holiday events together. Learning to manage my stress and anxiety dramatically changed the overall interactions we have around the holiday season, and our family is able to be together and enjoy each other’s company. Below are some ideas to keep your stress at bay as you embark on the season.

Focus on the memories and not the gift.

The most significant thing you can give your child is your time. It’s easy to forget that this is the season of being together, and then get lost in purchasing things. Buying appreciation gifts for friends and teachers is entirely different than for your child with special needs. Children with special needs are often developmentally behind their peers, so buying a gift for them can feel

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DECEMBER 2019 | charlotteparent.com

overwhelming and may induce feelings of depression. Swap the shopping sadness for quality time together. Making meaningful memories is the gift children want.

We attend sensory-friendly activities, as well as regular holiday events. I feel most at ease at a sensory-friendly event because I don’t feel the pressure of worrying about how Jacob behaves. But over through the years, I have come to feel more comfortable at other events

Be prepared. Whether staying home or traveling, make proper arrangements ahead of time to decrease anxiety. Procrastination only creates unnecessary stress. Before you travel, pack comfort items, including fidget toys or a weighted blanket that can calm a sensory-sensitive child. Bring desired snacks, especially for a child with dietary restrictions.

When staying in town, research local events geared to children with special needs, but don’t overschedule.

Maintain structure at home. Keeping a consistent schedule may seem like an impossible task with constant interruptions of either family visiting or traveling, and the removal of the school routine. While keeping structure intact may seem like a daunting task, it can be accomplished. Start by focusing on what you can control. Maintain screen time rules, setting limits on when the screen can start and when it will end. Maintain a reading and bedtime schedule, as well as plenty of screen-free time and time playing outdoors.

Remember the overall goal is to enjoy the extended time you have with your family. Find the humor, sit and just be in the moment.

Bea Moise is a board-certified cognitive specialist, parenting coach and founder of A Child Like Mine. She and her husband have two children, one typically developing and one on the autism spectrum.

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FAMILIES MANAGING MEDIA

parental controls on the hosts internet are null and void when the kids use data instead of Wi-Fi. Sleepovers are a perfect time for the kids to do this.

The lost social benefits. With the presence of smartphones and video games, the social benefits of getting together in person are very limited. When everyone has a screen at a gathering, very few, if any, children are practicing face-to-face social interaction because everyone is staring down at their phone and sending videos back-and-forth. As parents we should be constantly looking for more ways for our kids to practice healthy face-to-face interaction, not more ways to sabotage those efforts.

Solution: Host a half-over. Is it possible to enjoy the benefits of a sleepover withour the hassle of digital devices? Yes.

Screens and Sleepovers Do they mix?

J

Peer pressure. Peer pressure at a sleepover is a powerful motivator. A child’s developing brain is programed to seek novelty and risks. These tendencies are heightened with social conformity that comes when in the company of peers.

A child’s ability to resist temptation is

party and is picked up at 9:30 or 10 p.m.

He gets the benefits of social time without all the dangers of the unmonitored, late-night screen exposure, making it a

BY MELANIE HEMPE ust when you think you are getting a handle on screen limits in your home, the holidays roll around and throw a wrench in your best-laid plans.

Your children are requesting sleepovers throughout winter break, and you quickly discover it is nearly impossible to uphold family screen rules when your child is in the home of a friend or extended family member. Here are three things to consider before your kids pack that sleepover bag.

A half-over is when a child attends the

win-win. also compromised at night when he or she is tired. Strength in numbers causes poor decisions that an otherwise low-key kid would never be tempted to engage in alone. Additionally, there is the potential for negative influence from older children at the host home.

Viewing adult content. When kids find novel images, the first impulse is to share their discovery with friends far and wide.

It is common for first time viewing of graphic content to be during a sleepover.

Once they see it, it’s stored forever in their brain. Most adult content is viewed on small hand-held devices as opposed to larger TVs. This puts a lot of pressure on the hosts as they are responsible for what happens on their watch. Not to mention, due to smartphone unlimited data plans,

Simply explain to the host parents that your child would love to come, but that you have found that she does much better with a late pick up once the activities are winding down. Most parents are relieved with this structure and are happy to participate. Once a core group of families start this practice, half-overs may become the norm. Chart a different course and do not make your holiday season more stressful than it needs to be.

Melanie Hempe is the founder of Families Managing Media, a registered nurse, and mom to four children. Find more about managing family screen time at familiesmanagingmedia.com.

charlotteparent.com | DECEMBER 2019

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LASTMINUTE

H

LIDAY GIFTS

Ideas to fill gift boxes and bags for all ages

BY MANDY HOWARD

Still haven’t finished your holiday shopping?

Don’t worry, there’s still time and we have suggestions to fill the gift boxes and bags. These gift ideas are categorized to cover everyone on your list, so keep it handy when you’re shopping. Most of these items are available via Amazon, so if you’re an Amazon Prime member, the gifts can be delivered to you — or your recipient — for free a couple of days after you place the order.

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DECEMBER 2019 | charlotteparent.com

Clockwise from left: Barbie Fashionistas doll; People Blocks Working Car; and Geo Safri Jr. Talking Microscope.

BABIES AND TODDLERS

Cali’s Books Push-button technology on each page of these beautifully illustrated board books makes it possible for little hands to trigger musical accompaniment as they read. “The Nutcracker” introduces Tchaikovsky’s beloved ballet in a way that kids will understand and love. $14.99, calisbooks.com.

People Blocks Working Cars This 18-piece magnetic mix-and-match car set encourages children to use their imagination as they recreate favorite cars and invent new ones. $34.99, peopletoy.co.

Precidio Design Drink in the Box These innovative and reusable on-the-go drink boxes are perfect for the moms with toddlers on your list. They are also bisphenoland phthalate-free, won’t squirt or leak, and allow parents to choose exactly what baby (and mommy) are sipping on. Available in 8- and 12-ounce sizes. $11.99-$14.99, precidio.com.

B IG KIDS

GeoSafari Jr. Talking Microscope This updated version of the best-selling Talking Microscope features the voice of Bindi Irwin, star of Animal Planet’s “Crikey! It’s the Irwins,” and daughter of the late “Crocodile Hunter” star Steve Irwin.

Kids can fall in love with science as they explore 60 photo-quality images and hear more than 100 facts. Ages 4-7. $49.99, educationalinsights.com.

Barbie Fashionistas The Barbie Fashionistas line consists of diverse dolls with a wide variety of skin tones, eye colors, hair colors and textures, body types and fashions. Mattel has introduced two brand-new additions to the family this year. One doll has a prosthetic leg and others come with wheelchairs. To make these new stars as authentic as possible, Mattel worked with kids who have lost limbs, as well as with medical professionals. Ages 3 and older. $19.99, barbie.mattel.com.

Buzz Light Year Star Command To paraphrase Woody, “This is a cool toy!” It has a spaceship, space-exploring rover and glow-in-the-dark Buzz Lightyear. With the recent release of Disney+ streaming service and the global success of “Toy Story 4” last summer, this toy is sure to be a hit. Ages 3 and older. $79.99, shop.mattel.com.

charlotteparent.com | DECEMBER 2019

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TWEENS AND TEENS

Escape Jigsaw Puzzle New this year from Ravensburger, Escape Jigsaw Puzzles bring the fun of escape rooms into your living room. These 759-piece puzzles are games, riddles and adventures in one box. A unique cutting process allows the pieces throughout the puzzle to fit together in multiple places. Similar to an actual escape room, players must work together to solve problems and escape the puzzle.

Each box includes a story booklet and sealed envelope with the solution. $19.99, ravensburger.us. myCharge Portable Phone Charger A great gift for any teen, this portable charger is easy to keep in a backpack, sports bag or car for a quick charge anytime, anywhere.

It features an integrated Apple Lightning cable and micro-USB cable, as well as a built-in USB port. $99, mycharge.com.

Gas Gift Card Is it terribly exciting? Nope.

But what is even less exciting?

When teens have to spend their own money on gas. Buy this on the way to a holiday event and brighten the day of any teen driver on your list.

ADULTS

Honey & Sage Co. Mala Bracelet Malas are traditional Buddhist prayer beads used as a tool to count how many times a mantra is recited. This practice, like yoga, has spread beyond the Buddhist religion because of the benefits that mantras, meditation and mindfulness can have. These bracelets are made with stones and aromatherapy that are designed to help the person wearing one focus on a specific aspect of well-being. $24, honeyandsageco.com.

“It’s Blunderful” Board Game “It’s Blunderful” requires players to read out awkward situations from game cards and then make bets on how the other players will handle those scenarios. Be careful — players may get to know each other too well! $24.99, amazon.com.

Spongellé Beach Grass Pedi-Buffer Want to add a spring to someone’s step this winter? This uniquely textured sponge is just the gift to do it. It whisks away dry skin while cleansing feet with extracts of peppermint and sea kelp. $16, spongelle.com.

StoryWorth On your way to visit the in-laws and just found out that your spouse dropped the ball and forgot to buy a gift? Fear not. StoryWorth is a service that prompts recipients with emailed questions throughout the year and then compiles a beautiful book filled with a “story of their life.” This thoughtful gift doesn’t require much thought. In fact, you can purchase it on your way to the celebration. $99, storyworth.com.

Mandy Howard is a mother of three and freelance writer in Raleigh.

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DECEMBER 2019 | charlotteparent.com

Photos courtesy of manufacturers and/or businesses selling the items shown.

Bombas Socks These socks are fun and insanely comfortable. Not only do they cradle your feet with warm and fuzzy cotton, but they give your hearts warm and fuzzies, too: For every pair purchased, Bombas donates a pair to the homeless community. (A special Sesame Street 50th anniversary sock line is also available for young children on your list). $107 for a seven-pack gift box, bombas.com.

Clockwise from left: Ravensburger Escape Puzzle; Bombas Socks; and Honey & Sage Bracelet

CHARLOTTE PREPARATORY SCHOOL

VISIT www.charlotteprep.org 704-366-5994

charlotteparent.com | DECEMBER 2019

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Gift a membership that keeps on giving for the year ahead

BY COURTNEY MCLAUGHLIN | EDITED BY MICHELE HUGGINS If your family has a favorite spot they love visiting over and over again, purchasing an annual family membership could be the perfect gift to ensure lots of memories and quality time together in the upcoming year.

Memberships are typically good for a year and offer access to memberonly events, special exhibitions and discounts on gift store items, camp registration, restaurants and stores.

Some memberships also include reduced or free admission to partner museums across the country giving you big bang for your buck, and interesting places to stop on the next family road trip.

Fees for memberships are listed below but are subject to change at any time, and may even be discounted for holiday gift-giving. Check the website for the most accurate pricing and benefits information.

MERRY

MEMBERSHIPS

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DECEMBER 2019 | charlotteparent.com

FOR THE LOVE OF ART Mint Museum | mintmuseum.org If you love a great two-for-one deal, the Mint Museum membership has your name written all over it. Family memberships start at $100 (supporter level) and include free general and special exhibition admission to the Mint Museum Uptown and the location on Randolph Road. A membership also entitles you to discounts on programs, classes and summer camps (save 25%), and a 10% discount on admission for guests and the museum store. Hungry?

Present your membership card and eat for less at Halcyon and Something Classic Cafe locations. Yum! BONUS: You also have privileges with participating Southeastern Reciprocal Museums (not including neighboring Charlotte museums).

Bechtler Museum of Modern Art | bechtler.org A museum can be a wonder-filled place to spark imagination and creativity, especially on cold or rainy days. With a $90 membership to the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art, families can visit exhibits on a whim and be treated to new exhibitions throughout the year. Membership includes unlimited general admission, invitations to exhibitions, an annual member-only appreciation event, discounts in the museum store and free guided tours on specific dates.

BONUS: Take your membership on the road with free and discounted admission to participating Southeastern Reciprocal Musuems (not including neighboring Charlotte art museums).

FOR THE LOVE OF NATURE AND SCIENCE

Stocking Stuffer: ASC Connect With Culture Card Want access to the huge art scene in Charlotte at a bargain price? For a $10 donation, your family can enjoy the power of the ASC Connect With Culture Card that includes discounts to area arts and cultural experiences. Most are buy-one-get-one-free admissions to local art venues, so buy two to save while exploring Charlotte’s art scene with the family. artsandscience.org. includes climbing, repelling, canoeing, rafting and hanging from zip lines, the U.S. National Whitewater Center is calling. An annual pass for children age 9 and under is $189, and $219 for anyone older than 10. Passes are good for 365 days after first use and offer cardholders unlimited access to all activities at the center, including whitewater rafting. Only individual passes are available.

You can also purchase a parking pass for $50 per year and have access to non-pass activities like walking trails, concerts and other events. Normal parking fee is $6 per charge per visit.

Charlotte Concord Aquarium. Located at

FOR THRILL SEEKERS

you get a parent break.

Concord Mills, the aquarium has touch pools, tons of “fintastic” friends to check out, and scheduled feeding and educational events. The Companion Annual Pass is $99.95 for one adult and one child, and includes unlimited admission to SEA-LIFE, a free guidebook and up to 20% off items in the retail store and for birthday parties.

Plus you have access to behind the scenes tours and member-only events.

BONUS: When family and friends come to town wanting to spend time with the kids, the membership is transferrable between adults so you they can go have fun for a few hours and

Discovery Place Museums | discoveryplace.org.

Just like a favorite burger or sandwich, you can build this family membership to suit you.

For $150 per year, you can join Discovery Place Science uptown or Discovery Place Nature near Freedom Park, or be members of both places for $180. Bump it up to $200 and receive unlimited access to four great places to play: Discovery Place Science, Discovery Place Nature, Discovery Place Kids–Huntersville and Discovery Place Kids–Rockingham. Whatever membership fits you best, your family will enjoy unlimited admission to the museum for two adults and all children 18 and younger in the household with discounts on birthday parties and summer camps, the museum store and the café, plus discounted parking at Discovery Place Science and free parking at Discovery Place Nature and Discovery Place Kids.

BONUS: The $200 membership also entitles you to free or discounted admission to more than 360 participating Association of Science and Technology Centers (astc.org) nationwide, including other science and nature museums throughout the Carolinas.

Carowinds | carowinds.com A Carowinds season pass is a must — and a great deal — for families who can’t get enough amusement park action. With fall and winter events like SCarowinds and WinterFest, you can use this pass way beyond summer. A Gold Pass starts at $107 per person and includes unlimited visits to Carowinds and Carolina Harbor waterpark, as well as admission to SCarowinds and WinterFest.

Carowinds also offers a free Pre-K pass for children ages 3 to 5. Bring your child and a valid birth certificate or passport showing his or her birthday to receive the pass. Passholders can upgrade their experience with unlimited dining options, drink refills, digital pictures, fast lane ride privileges and others perks for a fee.

Perks include free admission to the park, as well as entry to Pumpkin Fest, WinterFest and the Peanuts Celebration.

BONUS: Spring for a Platinum Pass at $197 per person and get Gold Pass perks, plus free admission to Cedar Fair Parks across the country including Kings Dominion, Cedar Point and more. Military discounts are also available.

FOR THE LOVE OF OUTDOOR ADVENTURE

FOR ADVENTURES UNDER THE SEA

U.S. National Whitewater Center | usnwc.org If your family’s idea of the perfect afternoon

SEA-LIFE Charlotte Concord Aquarium Prefer water adventures under the sea? Check out the Companion Annual Pass at SEA-LIFE

FOR FAMILIES THAT LIKE TO STOP AND SMELL THE ROSES Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden Take outdoor time to a whole new level with an annual membership to Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden. This perfectly manicured green space delights with fountains, flora, topiary’s, water features and more. The garden also hosts special events throughout the year including the popular Holidays in the Garden.

For $85, adults and children living at the same address can become members.

You can also opt for the Premiere Household membership at $140 per year and bring a friend every time you visit. Both memberships offer unlimited free daytime admission, invitations to exclusive member events, 10% discounts to The Garden Store, 15% off classes, as well as select local garden centers and restaurants.

BONUS: Your membership also entitles the family to free or discounted admission to over 300 public gardens throughout North America.

See the American Horticulture Society website for participating gardens, ahsgardening.org.

Courtney McLaughlin is a freelance writer in Charlotte. You can contact her at realewriter@ yahoo.com.

charlotteparent.com | DECEMBER 2019

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RING IN THE

New Year as a Family

BY TIFFANY WOLFF New Year’s Eve brings excitement for everyone.

Staying awake until midnight is not a requirement for fun, and creating memories can be easier than popping a bottle of bubbly. Following are creative ideas for family entertainment on New Year’s Eve at home, or venture out early for familyfriendly New Year’s Eve celebrations throughout the Queen City.

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DECEMBER 2019 | charlotteparent.com

BALLOON DROP Surprise the family with an interactive ball drop using a traditional party favorite — balloons. No helium is necessary for this project, and it is sure to delight even the youngest party animals.

Craft the balloon holder with a thin sheet of plastic, string and masking or painter’s tape. Balloon holders can be purchased from many party supply stores or select big-box retailers for those not feeling so crafty.

After a family countdown, release as many balloons as you wish from the ceiling. To add an element of surprise, tuck balloons in a loft or foyer near a stairway.

MAKE A LITTLE NOISE Children of all ages can create noisemakers to prepare for the countdown to 2020. Repurpose paper towel rolls, ground coffee canisters, and plastic spice or water bottles.

Great filler ideas include beads, aluminum foil, and uncooked rice or pasta. Shake a little luck into your new year by adding dried black-eyed peas to the inside of the noise maker.

(Parents of babies and toddlers should keep a very close watch on children during noisemaker creation and use. Small pieces can be choking hazards, so also be sure to seal lids tightly and use with care.)

PAINT YOUR OWN FIREWORKS Keep little hands busy painting with a “stringy ball” instead of a paintbrush, which is easier for small hands and more unique for more experienced artists.

To paint fireworks, dip the ball into washable, nontoxic paint that has been poured onto a paper plate. Then let little ones smash it excitedly onto paper. Use different colors of paint for more expressive fireworks. Be sure to put on play clothes before the painting begins. Most brands of balls used can be washed, air-dried and reused as sensory toys. Lacking materials? A plastic fork also makes a pretty good utensil for painting fireworks.

CREATE A TIME CAPSULE Create one large capsule as a family, or let each family member create an individual capsule. A clean shoebox or empty cereal box works well.

Fill the box with items that made the last year memorable, perhaps a photo, ticket stub, list of favorite songs or puzzle piece from that puzzle that was too big for the family to finish.

After closing the box, tape a label to the outside with a date to open the time capsule. Adults might enjoy waiting at least 10 years before opening the box, but young children may still get a kick out of waiting until just the next New Year’s Eve. CHANGE THE TIME Not all little ones can stay up for midnight celebrations, and parents might want to enjoy the first kiss of 2020 without a side of crankiness.

Make midnight come earlier for young children by celebrating with a different time zone. In Paris, midnight occurs six hours ahead of Charlotte, and the stunning live broadcast of the Eiffel Tower will amaze.

If another time zone does not fit the family’s bedtime routine, find a recording of last year’s New Year’s Eve countdown.

PICK A WORD FOR 2020 Resolutions are so last year. Think ahead by picking a family word for 2020. Families can brainstorm positive words, such as gratitude, kindness or resilience. Once a word has been selected, read the definition aloud.

Let children guide this activity. After explaining the word, ask the kids what the word means to them. Ask why they picked it and when they recently witnessed or experienced it. The entire family can share how they plan to use the word in the new year, like a goal, moto or mantra.

Write the word on a chalkboard, or spell it out on the refrigerator with alphabet letters. Set a computer or tablet background with the word so it is visible for everyone to see.

Tiffany Wolff is the calendar editor for Charlotte Parent magazine and mom to two boys.

New Year’s Eve Events FOR FAMILIES Celebrate the new year with the kids out at one of these events.

NEW YEAR’S EVE AT WINTERFEST Surrounded by the shimmering lights and holiday decor of WinterFest, Carowinds’ countdown celebration features bands and fireworks. $48+, children ages 5 and younger admitted free with Pre-K Pass. 5pm-1am. carowinds.com.

NOON YEAR CELEBRATION Discovery Place Kids in Huntersville closes early for this ticketed event just for families. Ring in the New Year at noon with a balloon drop and other festive activities. Members may enter an hour early. $5-$15. 10am-2pm. kids. discoveryplace.org.

SPARKLE AND GLOW NEW YEAR’S EVE Celebrate New Year’s Eve that features crafts and activities for kids, as well as lights and decorations from Holidays at the Garden at Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden. $8–$15.

5-9pm. dsbg.org.

See more New Year’s Eve events for kids in the calendar on page 32.

hooray

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Holidays at the Garden at DSBG

Christmas Candlelight Tours Historic Brattonsville opens its doors for the annual Christmas Candlelight Tours, a tradition for over 40 years, on Dec. 7 and 14. Throughout candlelit vignettes, historically dressed interpreters recreate holiday

Delight in a stroll through Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden’s shimmering Mile of a Million Lights Nov. 29-Jan. 5, featuring dancing lights on topiaries, glittering waves of color in the prairie, glowing LED cherry trees, enchanting fairy villages and model trains, a 15-foot orchid tree, and so much more. Enjoy a visit with Santa or Mrs. Claus on select evenings, live music, holiday shopping, warm beverages, and more.

(Closed Dec. 25th.)

Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden 6500 S. New Hope Road, Belmont 704-829-4490 | dsbg.org

traditions of the Carolina Piedmont during the 18th and 19th centuries.

Ongoing activities include candle-dipping, ornament-making, brass ensemble, and carollers.

1444 Brattonsville Road, McConnells, South Carolina 803-684-2327 chmuseums.org

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ChristmasVille The 14th annual ChristmasVille takes place Dec. 5-8, 2019. The award-winning festival has over 100 events including horse-drawn carriage rides, historic tours, strolling Dickens carolers, art, theater, dance, music, a gingerbread house contest, multiple Santa activities, and an ice skating rink!

Downtown Rock Hill, South Carolina 803-326-3838 christmasvillerockhill.com

DECEMBER 2019 | charlotteparent.com

Blakeney Santa Photo Experience Blakeney Shopping Center is thrilled to welcome back Santa Claus to his custom-built house on the Village Green! Families can visit on select dates Nov. 23 through Dec. 22 for pictures with Santa Claus. Pricing and full schedule are available at www.ShopBlakeney.com.

Ardrey Kell & Rea roads, Charlotte 980-474-1660 shopblakeney.com

Christmas Fun in Pigeon Forge

Pigeon Forge Parkway glows with more than 5 million lights that create the city’s Winterfest display. Courtesy of the Pigeon Forge Department of Tourism

›

EXCURSION

The magic of the holiday season sparkles in this eastern Tennessee town

BY VIRGINIA BROWN

W

ith enchanting snow-capped mountains all around, twinkling lights by the millions, and entertainment for days, the magic of Christmas shines bright in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. Just under four-hours from Charlotte, and hugged all around by the peaks and hills of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park (the mostvisited of all the national parks), Pigeon Forge is as thrilling or relaxed as its visitors make it.

From November through February, during the town’s annual Winterfest celebration, Pigeon Forge is covered in millions of lights that transform its streets into a sparkling wonderland. Hop on the charming trolley and catch oversized ornaments and trees, plus bear, deer, fox and other area natives — all aglow. Shining with lights, the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel is a show in itself.

The Parkway (not to be confused with the Blue Ridge Parkway) is the town’s main drag. With dozens of entertaining shows, shops, and attractions, it emits a high-octane, Las Vegas-for-families vibe.

Pirates Voyage, the Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Show, and the Comedy Barn all add warm holiday themes to their popular annual performances. Through early January, Christmas takes over Dolly Parton’s Stampede, too, where the whole family can share a hearty meal as competitive little elves from the North and South poles engage in a harmless rivalry. The show’s live nativity — compete with live camels — is the icing on the Christmas cake.

For a low-key experience, head over to the Old Mill Square, a festive complex of restaurants and specialty and pottery shops centered around a circa 1830s gristmill.

Today the Old Mill Restaurant or Pottery House Cafe & Grille are both worthy stops for a family-style bite. For a holiday extra, share breakfast or brunch with jolly ‘ole Saint Nick and his missus.

For another worthy shared-meal experience, go for breakfast at the familystyle Applewood Farmhouse Restaurant, the oldest restaurant in nearby Sevierville.

Buttermilk pancakes, country-fried steak, and biscuits and gravy all follow after sweet apple fritters start the day right. Located on the campus of the Apple Barn and Cider Mill, there’s no shortage of things to do on the premises, including stopping in the Christmas barn for signature candles, ornaments, gifts, toys, and more.

Driving in Pigeon Forge, Dolly Parton appears on local Tennessee tags, a nod to her childhood literacy program.

Originally from nearby Locust Ridge, Dolly means business in eastern Tennessee, and Dollywood resort and theme park, just a stone’s throw from the heart of Pigeon Forge, draws 3 million visitors a year. During the holidays, 5 million lights brighten this 150-acre park, featuring nine coasters, thrilling shows, and even a Dolly Parton museum. (Pro parenting tip: Don’t leave without sampling the cinnamon bread.) Kids also can marvel at the live eagle sanctuary, and everyone can watch as working blacksmiths and jewelry makers

exercise their talents in Craftsman’s Valley.

Holiday-adorned accommodations are available at the adjacent DreamMore resort or in one of the cozy cabins.

For the family that loves a little highspeed adventure, hop aboard the Rocky Top Mountain Coaster, just a stone’s throw from Dollywood. This new stand-alone coaster offers a nine-minute ride with a rush of curves and daring hairpins at speeds up to 30 miles per hour. It’s also decorated and lights up at night during Winterfest. (Check facebook.com/rockytopcoaster before you go for times and closures.) Too cold for the whoosh of the ride? Opt for an inside adventure at Pigeon Forge Snow, an indoor snow tubing and play center that’s open year round.

For an all-immersive experience, look no further than The Inn at Christmas Place.

Appropriately located along Christmas Tree Lane, this half-timbered style stately hotel offers all-Christmas accommodations (think: trees in rooms, visits from Santa, elves and wreathes all about, ventriloquist shows and musical acts) and an impressive lobby glockenspiel that plays Christmas carols and strikes on the hour.

Whether seeking relaxation, thrills, entertainment or just plain quality time together, Pigeon Forge is an enchanting option for any family holiday getaway.

Virginia Brown is native Charlottean and freelance journalist, writer and editor who loves sharing stories. Reach out to her at vbwrites.com. charlotteparent.com | DECEMBER 2019

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DECEMBER 2019 OUR PICKS

COMPILED BY TIFFANY WOLFF

Christmas at the Library | Dec. 2-23 Celebrate the Christmas season at the Billy Graham Library. Enjoy light displays, a live nativity, horse-drawn carriage rides, carolers, story time for children, holiday food and drinks, and a petting zoo. Christmas activities begin take place Mon.-Thurs., 5-9 p.m.; and Fri.-Sat., 5-10 p.m. Visit the petting zoo between noon and 2 p.m. It’s free to attend. Carriage rides cost $4-$8. billygrahamlibrary.org/ christmas-at-the-library.

Charlotte Christmas Village | Through Dec. 24 The uptown, German-inspired Christmas Market has relocated this year to 406 N. Tryon St. Open Tuesday through Sunday, it includes traditional German foods and treats, homemade crafts and gifts, and featured programming, such as local musical performances, plus visits from Santa on select dates. Free. cltchristmasvillage.com.

Find indoor fun at Discovery Place Science, and check out the new Cuba exhibit.

Photo by AMHNR Micken

Cuba | Through Jan. 1, 2020 Discover Cuban culture through music, games and interactive experiences that paint a picture of Cuba. This bilingual experience at Discovery Place Science showcases Cuba’s wildlife, biodiversity, history and culture. Pair the exhibit with “Cuba” in IMAX for an additional cost of $4 per ticket. $18-$22, children younger than 2 admitted free, includes museum admission. science.discoveryplace.org.

Magic of Christmas and the Singing Christmas Tree Family Performance | Dec. 14

See an abridge version of Magic of Christmas and the Singing Christmas Tree, Dec. 14 at Knight Theater.

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DECEMBER 2019 | charlotteparent.com

Charlotte Symphony’s Magic of Christmas and Carolina Voice’s The Singing Christmas Tree unite at Knight Theater at the Levine Center for the Arts. The morning performance is an abridged version of the concert designed especially for young children and families.

Expect sing-alongs, a snow fall and visit from Santa. 11am-noon. Tickets start at $19. charlottesymphony.org.

› 1 SUNDAY

On Stage: The Best Christmas Pageant Ever: The Musical; Christmas Extravaganza 2019; The Hip Hop Nutcracker; The Nutcracker Ballet; The Play that Goes Wrong; and The Real Christmas Story. See page 24.

Charlotte Checkers V. Providence Bruins. BoPlex, 2700 E. Independence Blvd. 1pm. $18.50+. This afternoon game features the Novant Health Toy Drive and Postgame Skate. gocheckers.com.

Christmas in Cornelius. Oak Street Mill, 5721 Oak St., Cornelius. Noon-6pm.

FREE. Festival features local breweries, vendors, food trucks, live music, activities for kids and a visit from Santa. oldtowncornelius.com.

Family Cooking: Cookie Exchange.

Morrison Family YMCA, 9405 Bryant Farms Road. Ages 2 and older.

2-3:30pm. $10-$15. A professional instructor leads families in a cooking experience. End class with a family activity and the food you created.

Preregistration required. ymcacharlotte.org.

Vulture Venture. Carolina Raptor Center, 6000 Sample Road, Huntersville. 12:301pm. $8-$12, children 3 and younger admitted free, included with admission to Raptor Trail. Vultures and humans engage in an activity of the trainer’s choice. carolinaraptorcenter.org.

2 MONDAY On Stage: The Real Christmas Story. See page 24.

Community Preschool Program. Anne Springs Close Greenway, 2573 Lake Haigler Drive, Fort Mill. Ages 2-5.

10am. $2 per child, $5 parking fee.

Preschoolers complete nature-themed literature activities, crafts and hikes. ascgreenway.org.

Family Storytime: Pajama Storytime.

Matthews Library, 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews. 7-7:30pm.

FREE. Enjoy stories, songs and movement activities in your pajamas. cmlibrary.org.

Nature Detectives: Mammal Discovery.

Latta Nature Center, 6211 Sample Road, Huntersville. Ages 4-6. 1:30-3pm.

HOLIDAY EVENT

$6. Uncover the mysteries of nature through stories, crafts and activities related to the topic of the week. parkandrec.com.

Sensory Sensitive Sundays at Chuck E. Cheese. Chuck E. Cheese, 7701 Pineville-Matthews Road. 9-11am.

Free admission. The restaurant opens early to offer smaller crowds, reduced lighting and noise, food and games, and specially-trained staff. chuckecheese.com.

STEAM 101: STEAM Me up Mondays.

University City Regional Library, 301 E. W.T. Harris Blvd. Ages 8-12. 4-5pm.

FREE. Participate in a variety of handson STEAM projects and experiments. cmlibrary.org.

Toddler Jump at DefyGravity. DefyGravity Trampoline Park, 8116 University City Blvd. Ages 6 and younger. 9-10am. $11 for one hour. Children age 6 and younger can enjoy a special jump session each weekday morning. An adult may jump for free with paying child, not including DefyGravity socks for $3. defygravity.us/charlotte.

Young Explorers: Mammal Discovery.

Latta Nature Center, 6211 Sample Road, Huntersville. Ages 2-3. 10:15-11am. $4. Discover nature through stories and activities related to the topic of the week. parkandrec.com.

3 TUESDAY On Stage: The Real Christmas Story. See page 24.

American Girl Book Club. Mint Hill Library, 6840 Matthews-Mint Hill Road, Mint Hill. Ages 5-11. 4-5pm. FREE. Girls are invited to American Girl Book Club. 5-year-old participants must be in kindergarten. cmlibrary.org.

Arts Delivered: DIY Artwork and Graphics Workshop. McDowell Arts Center, 123 McDowell St., Matthews. Ages 7 and older.

9:30-10:45am. $15. Kids turn their imagination into finished products after graphics, software and hardware demonstrations. matthewsfun.com.

Dakota and Friends. ImaginOn: The Joe & Joan Martin Center, 300 E. 7th St. Ages 3-11. 11am-1pm. FREE. Meet and interact with Dakota, pet a baby T-Rex.

Read aloud to dinosaurs, then take a ride. cmlibrary.org.

Girls in STEM at Discovery Place Nature. Discovery Place Nature, 1658 Sterling Road. Ages 7-9. 4-4:45pm or 6-6:45pm. $15, includes museum admission. Register to participate in workshops with changing STEM topics. kids.discoveryplace.org.

Preteen Scene: Kids Coding Dance Party. Hickory Grove Library, 5935 Hickory Grove Road. Ages 8-11. 5:30-6:30pm. FREE. Explore concepts of coding. Snacks provided.

Preregistration required. cmlibrary.org.

Teen D.I.Y. Christmas Ornaments.

Fort Mill Public Library, 1818 2nd Baxter Crossing, Fort Mill. Ages 11-17.

5-6:30pm. FREE. Create unique and gift-worthy ornaments. Materials provided. Register prior to event. yclibrary.org.

4 WEDNESDAY On Stage: The Real Christmas Story.

See page 24.

Chess Masters. Naomi Drenan Recreation Center, 750 Beal St. Ages 6-14. 4-5pm.

FREE. Learn movement of the pieces and basic chess strategy. parkandrec.com.

Child Seat Check. Cornelius Fire Station, 19729 S. Main St., Cornelius. 3:306:30pm. FREE. Bring your seat, child and vehicle, and plan to spend at least 20 minutes with a technician. safekidscharmeck.org.

Cookies with Santa. Cabarrus Arts Council, 65 Union St. S., Concord.

3-6pm. FREE. Come take free photos with Santa. Cookies available in one of the galleries for all to enjoy. cabarrusartscouncil.org.

Makerspace Open Hours. Morrison Regional Library, 7015 Morrison Blvd.

Ages 12 and older. 2-7pm. FREE. A 3D printer, vinyl cutter, and a wood carver are available for use. cmlibrary.org.

Pop-up Maker Space. Mint Museum Uptown, 500 S. Tryon St. 6-8pm. FREE. Visit the Museum’s maker space to express yourself and explore ideas. mintmuseum.org.

STEAM 101: Art! Hickory Grove Library, 5935 Hickory Grove Road. Ages

CALENDAR

10-18. 5:30-6:30pm. FREE. Use various techniques to make small pieces of art that can be given as gifts. Register online. cmlibrary.org.

Tackling the Runaway Cost of College.

Morrison Regional Library, 7015 Morrison Blvd. Ages 12 and older.

6:30pm. FREE. Learn about the business of college and how to avoid financial pitfalls. Register online. cmlibrary.org.

5 THURSDAY On Stage: Jacob Marley’s Christmas Carol; and The Real Christmas Story. See page 24.

Board Game Night at Barnes and Noble Arboretum. Barnes and Noble Arboretum, 3327 PinevilleMatthews Road. 6pm. FREE. Come play board games with friends. barnesandnoble.com.

Cookies and Cocoa With Santa. First Presbyterian Church, 234 E. Main St., Rock Hill. 7:30-9pm. FREE. Following Christmasville’s opening ceremonies, head to First Presbyterian Church for cookies, hot chocolate and photos with Santa. christmasvillerockhill.com.

DSAGC Roots and Shoots Music Class for Little Achievers. Piedmont Music Therapy, 220 Westinghouse Blvd. 3:45-4:30pm. FREE. Young children with Down syndrome can make music and try out instruments. piedmontmusictherapy.com.

STEAM 101. Scaleybark Library, 101 Scaleybark Road. Ages 10-18. 5:306:30pm. FREE. Participate in a variety of science experiments, engineering projects or math puzzles. Register online. cmlibrary.org.

Story Garden: Homeschool Edition. Mint Hill Library, 6840 Matthews-Mint Hill Road, Mint Hill. 1-2pm. FREE. Listen to stories and learn through a variety of hands-on gardening activities. Register online. cmlibrary.org.

Teen Geek Club Presents: Star Wars Celebration Month. West Boulevard Library, 2157 West Blvd. Teen. 5:307:15pm. FREE. Join in celebrating everything Star Wars. Register online. cmlibrary.org.

charlotteparent.com | DECEMBER 2019

23

Bring the grandparents and kids to sing along at “Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer: The Musical,” Dec. 19 at the BoPlex. Courtesy Character Arts

Retrieving the Lamb: Performance Reading. (Dec. 7-8). Fort Mill Community Playhouse, 220 Main St., Fort Mill. $13$18. A lamb is lost, an angel’s credentials are questioned, Mary and Joseph wants a divorce and the nativity scene is out of control in this charming, funny and very moving family story of Christmas time in the South. Sat., 7:30-10pm; Sun. 3-5:30pm. fortmillplayhouse.org.

Annie. (Dec. 7-8 and Dec. 14-15).

Levine Jewish Community Center, 5007 Providence Road. $15. JStage presents the musical Annie. Saturday, 2 and 7pm; Sunday, 2 and 5:30pm. 704-366-5007. charlottejcc.org/culturalarts.

ON STAGE The Real Christmas Story. (Through Dec. 28). The NarroWay Theatre, 3327 Hwy. 51 N., Fort Mill. $9.50-$37. 803-8022300. See your favorite Christmas scenes, and hear your favorite songs during this dinner theater experience. See website for showtimes. narroway.net.

The Best Christmas Pageant Ever: The Musical. (Through Dec. 29). Children’s Theatre of Charlotte, ImaginOn: The Joan & Joe Martin Center, 300 E. 7th St. $19+.

704-973-2828. This hilarious and heartfelt musical comedy, adapted from Barbara Robinson’s classic story, entertains the entire family. See website for showtimes.

Enjoy a sensory-friendly performance on Dec. 8 at 4pm. ctcharlotte.org.

Charlotte Civic Orchestra Presents Christmas Extravaganza 2019. (Dec. 1) Dale F. Halton Theater, 1206 Elizabeth Ave. 7:30 pm. $28-$30. A cast of more than 300 performers, including the Charlotte Civic Orchestra, Holiday Singers, Charlotte City Ballet, Havilah Dance Studio and a 150voice chorus made of students from South Meck, Providence and Butler high schools put audiences in the Christmas spirit. tix. cpcc.edu.

The Hip Hop Nutcracker. (Dec. 1). Belk Theater, 130 N. Tryon St. $20+. 704-372-

1000. This holiday mash-up re-imagines Tchaikovsky’s classic score through explosive hip-hop choreography. Performances at 1 and 6:30 p.m. tix.carolinatix.org.

The Play That Goes Wrong. (Dec. 1).

Knight Theater, 430 S. Tryon St. $20+.

This classic murder mystery is chock-full of mishaps and laughs. See website for showtimes. blumenthalarts.org.

The Nutcracker Ballet. (Dec. 1, 7 and 8). Matthews Community Center, 100 E. W. McDowell St., Matthews. $5-$7. Get in the holiday spirit with the performance of the renowned Nutcracker Ballet. Sat., 2 and 7pm; Sun., 3pm. matthewsnc.gov.

Jacob Marley’s Christmas Carol. (Dec. 5-22). Armour Street Theatre, 307 Armour St., Davidson. $12-$29. Chained and shackled, Marley is condemned for eternity. Marley accepts his one chance to escape his own chains; he must first redeem Scrooge. So begins a journey of laughter and terror, redemption and renewal. davidsoncommunityplayers.org.

The Best Christmas Pageant Ever.

(Dec. 6-8 and 13-15). Rock Hill Community Theatre, Illumine Church, 1262 Riverchase Blvd., Rock Hill. $12-$15. 803-3267428. Follow the outrageous shenanigans

of the Herdman siblings, or “the worst kids in the history of the world” and the Bradley family who struggle to save the annual Christmas Pageant. Fri. and Sat., 7:30pm; and Sun., 3pm. rockhilltheatre.org.

Charlotte Youth Ballet presents The Nutcracker. (Dec. 6-8). Halton Theater, 1206 Elizabeth Ave. $20-$30.

This Tchaikovsky classic fairy tale features more than 100 performers, from little ones to international guest artists, with snow, laughter and surprises for the whole family. See website for showtimes. tix. cpcc.edu.

A Christmas Carol. (Dec. 6-15). The Eloise MacDonald Playhouse, 501 Queens Road. $28. 704-372-1000. Theatre Charlotte’s holiday tradition is back for its 13th season. Ebenezer Scrooge is visited by the ghost of his late partner, Jacob Marley and the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future. See website for showtimes. theatrecharlotte.org.

Elf Jr. (Dec. 6-8). Ballantyne Arts Center, 11318 North Community House Road. $11.

Based on the comedic holiday film, “Elf” follow Buddy’s adventure to self-discovery.

See website for showtimes. seatyourself. biz/ballantyne.

Tosco Music Holiday Party. (Dec. 7).

McGlohon Theater at Spirit Square, 345 N. College St. 7:30pm. $16.50-$35.50.

704-372-1000. An eclectic mix of music styles and sing-alongs that engages the audience throughout the evening. toscomusic.org.

Trans-Siberian Orchestra. (Dec. 7).

Spectrum Center, 333 E. Trade St. $49.50+.

The multi-platinum progressive rock group brings its highly anticipated tour with allnew staging and effects. Concerts at 3 and 8 p.m. spectrumcentercharlotte.com.

Robert Earl Keen Presents Countdown to Christmas. (Dec. 10). Knight Theater, 430 S. Tryon St. 7:30pm. $33+.

704-372-1000. In honor of the 50th anniversary of the Apollo 11 moon landing, Robert Earl Keen and his band pay homage to the space race and all things celestial in an out-of-this-world evening of family holiday fun. tix.carolinatix.org.

The Christmas Show. (Dec. 12-15).

Church 180, 2685 Celanese Road, Rock Hill. $10. 803-417-4220. Actors, singers, dancers and musicians bring Christmas music and characters to life. Meet Santa, Mrs. Claus and the elves, and sing along to Christmas music. End the evening with musical interpretation of the Nativity.

SEE MORE PERFORMANCES ONLINE AT CHARLOTTEPARENT.COM/CALENDAR

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DECEMBER 2019 | charlotteparent.com

HOLIDAY EVENT

› Thurs.-Sat., 7pm; Sun., 6pm. showtimetheatrecompany.com.

It’s a Wonderful Life. (Dec. 13-22).

Matthews Playhouse, 100 McDowell Street E., Matthews. Ages 6 and older. $14-$16. George Bailey’s guardian angel, Clarence, falls to Earth, and shows Bailey how his town, family and friends would have turned out if he had never been born. See website for showtimes. matthewsplayhouse.com.

A Carolina Pro Musica Christmas.

(Dec. 14). St. Mary’s Chapel, 1129 E. 3rd St. 7pm. $8-$16. 704-333-1235. This annual holiday event features music from the 17th and 18th centuries, seasonal readings, and carols. Musicians appear in period attire. Performances at 7 and 8:30pm. carolinapromusica.org.

Magic of Christmas and the Singing Christmas Tree Family Performance.

(Dec. 14). Knight Theater, 430 S. Tryon St. Ages 4-10. 11am-noon. $19+. This celebration is complete with quintessential holiday songs, sing-alongs, snow falling in the Knight Theater and a visit from Santa. The Family Series performance will feature an abridged version of the concert designed especially for young children and their families. charlottesymphony.org.

Winds of the Season Holiday Concert.

(Dec. 14). Myers Park High School Auditorium, 2400 Colony Road. 7-9pm. $5-$10.

Hear holiday music performed by the Charlotte Concert Band. charlotteconcertband.org/events.html.

Harris Y Presents the Nutcracker.

(Dec. 14-15). Charlotte Latin School, 9502 Providence Road. $15. Enjoy a family friendly performance of this holiday favorite presented by the Harris Dance Company. See website for performance schedule. ymcacharlotte.org.

Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer: The Musical. (Dec. 19). BoPlex, 2700

E. Independence Blvd. 7pm. $32+. The “most famous reindeer of all” from the longest running and highest rated holiday television special returns to BoPlex. rudolphthemusical.com.

Cirque Dreams Holidaze. (Dec. 20-22).

BoPlex, 2700 Independence Blvd. $44+.

“Cirque Dreams Holidaze” lights up the 2019 holiday season with its popular and electrifying stage spectacular. boplex.com.

A Soulful Noel. (Dec. 20-21). McGlohon Theater at Spirit Square, 345 N. College St. 8pm. $25. This musical revue tells the story of Christmas in a contemporary way with classics. Celebrate the season with R&B, funk, gospel, soul and a dash of noel.

Fri., 8pm; Sat., 2pm and 8pm. blumenthalarts.org.

A Charlie Brown Christmas. (Dec. 27).

BoPlex, 2700 Independence Blvd. 7pm. $26+. Join Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Lucy, Linus and the whole Peanuts gang as they produce their own Christmas play and ultimately learn the true meaning of the season. boplex.com.

Cirque de Noel. (Dec. 28). Belk Theater, 130 N. Tryon St. 7:30pm. $37+. 704-9722000. The circus meets the symphony with stunning aerial feats, mind-boggling contortions, and jaw-dropping juggling acts accompanied by musical holiday favorites. charlottesymphony.org.

Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker. (Dec. 29). BoPlex, 2900 E. Independence Blvd. $30+. Come see this fanciful presentation of Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker. Shows NarroWay Mystery Theatre. (Dec. 31). NarroWay Theatre, 3327 Hwy. 51 N., Fort Mill. 5pm. $9.50-$33. Enjoy dinner while interacting with cast to uncover clues to solve a mystery. Catch the early performance at 5pm, or stay and watch the ball drop following the 9pm show. narroway.net.

Vulture Playground Fun. Carolina Raptor Center, 6000 Sample Road, Huntersville. 11-11:30am. $8-$12, children 3 and younger admitted free, includes admission to Raptor Trail. Watch a King Vulture play on a playground in the Vulture Culture exhibit. carolinaraptorcenter.org.

WeBop Jazz for Preschoolers. Albemarle Road Presbyterian Church, 6740 Albemarle Road. Ages 3-5. 3-3:45pm.

FREE. JazzArts Charlotte presents WeBop, an award-winning, earlychildhood jazz education program.

Registration is required. thejazzarts.org.

Winter Wonderland Holiday Light Show at Phillips Place. Phillips Place, 6800 Phillips Place Court. 6:30-8:30pm.

FREE. See dazzling light shows at 6:30 and 7:30pm, and enjoy visits from Santa and Mrs. Claus, face painters, balloon artists, and hot chocolate. paschalevents.com/events.

6 FRIDAY On Stage: The Best Christmas Pageant Ever; The Best Christmas Pageant Ever: The Musical; Charlotte Youth Ballet presents the Nutcracker; A Christmas Carol; Elf Jr.; Jacob Marley’s Christmas Carol; and The Real Christmas Story. See page 24.

ACC FanFest. Charlotte Convention Center, 501 S. College St. FREE. Celebrate ACC icons with with interactive games, mascot appearances, giveaways, sampling, live music and more. theacc.com.

CM Library Presents: Music with Holly. ImaginOn: The Joe & Joan Martin Center, 300 E. 7th St. Ages 5 and younger. 11:30am-noon. FREE. Attend the music and movement program with songs and instruments. cmlibrary.org.

Cocoa with Santa. Cornelius Arts Center, 19725 Oak St., Unit 1, Cornelius.

10am-noon. FREE. Preschoolers can snap a picture Santa, make holiday crafts, ane enjoy cookies and cocoa.

Remember to bring a camera. cornelius.org.

Crews Family Fun Night. Crews Recreation Center, 1201 Crews Road, Matthews. 6-9pm. FREE. Family Fun

CALENDAR

Night at Crews returns with Game Truck Night. Light refreshments provided. matthewsfun.com.

Disney Junior Holiday Play Date.

SouthPark Mall, 4400 Sharon Road.

3-5pm. FREE. Disney Junior spreads cheer in SouthPark Mall. This event does not include live character appearances. simon.com/mall/ southpark.

Jazz at the Bechtler: Holiday Jazz.

Bechtler Museum of Modern Art, 420 S. Tryon St. $10-$16. Kick off your holiday season as the Ziad Jazz Quartet presents “Jingle Bell Jazz.”

Performances begin at 6 and 8:15pm. bechtler.org.

Messy By Nature. Latta Nature Center, 6211 Sample Road, Huntersville.

Ages 5-11. 1:30pm. $4. Get dirty learning about nature and creating nature-inspired crafts. Registration and parent attendance are required. parkandrec.com.

MyGym Lake Norman Puppet Show.

Barnes and Noble: Birkdale Village, 8725 Townley Road, Huntersville.

10:30am. FREE. The local puppeteer troupe from MyGym Lake Norman leads a puppet show with songs and book readings. barnesandnoble.com.

7 SATURDAY On Stage: Annie; The Best Christmas Pageant Ever; The Best Christmas Pageant Ever: The Musical; Charlotte Youth Ballet presents The Nutcracker; A Christmas Carol; Elf Jr.; Jacob Marley’s Christmas Carol; The Nutcracker Ballet; Retrieving the Lamb: Performance Reading; The Real Christmas Story; Tosco Music Holiday Party; and Trans-Siberian Orchestra. See page 24.

2019 ACC Football Championship Game.

Bank of America Stadium, 800 S. Mint St. 7:30-11:30pm. $42+. See the two top ACC teams take to the turf for the 2019 ACC Football Championship Game. theacc.com.

2019 Queen City Christmas Festival.

Carole Hoefener Center, 615 E. 6th St. 1-5pm. FREE. Take free pictures with Santa Claus, and enjoy a toy giveaway,

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›

CALENDAR free gift wrapping, bounce house and ornament decorating. eventbrite.com.

ACC Fan 5K and Kids Mascot Run. 501 S. College St. 8am. $30-$45 for 5K, Mascot Run free for children. The 5K begins at 8am, and the Mascot Run for kids begins at 9am. promotions.theacc. com/fan5k/.

A Huntersville Christmas.

Town Center, 105 Gilead Road, Huntersville. 2-8pm. FREE. Take pictures with Santa, plus holiday characters, activities, food trucks and performances. huntersville.org.

ASC Culture Blocks: It’s Not Just Selfies … It’s Photography and More.

Scaleybark Library, 101 Scaleybark Road. 11am-1pm. FREE. Teens can learn photography and videography techniques using point-and-shoot and DSLR cameras. Register online. cmlibrary.org.

Ballantyne Village’s Holiday Open House. Ballantyne Village, 14825 Ballantyne Village Way. 1-4pm. FREE. Visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus, plus face painting, balloon artist, crafts and a bounce house. ballantynevillage.com.

Breakfast with Santa at Harris YMCA. Harris YMCA, 5900 Quail Hollow Road. 9am-noon. $12-$15.

Join Santa for breakfast and pictures, and tell him what’s on your wish list this holiday. Preregistration required. ymcacharlotte.org.

Candy Cane Hunt and Paws with Claus. Anne Springs Close Greenway, 288 Dairy Barn Lane, Fort Mill.

10am-2pm. $12 per child, $5 for parking. Meet Santa and Mrs. Claus, search the greenway for candy canes, and finish with s’mores over a campfire.

Preregister online. ascgreenway.org.

Carolina Cookie Day. Blackhawk Hardware, 4225 Park Road. 10am-5pm.

FREE. Treat yourself and friends to cookies to support Cookies for Kids’ Cancer. The bake sale raises funds for pediatric cancer research. carolinacookieday.org.

Christmas in the Park. Stallings Municipal Park, 340 Stallings Road, Stallings. 2-6pm. FREE. Take photos with Santa by the tree, and enjoy cookies and hot chocolate. Kids can

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make crafts and jump in a bounce house.Tree-lighting at 5:20pm. stallingsnc.org.

Gingerbread House Decorating.

Matthews Community Center, 100 McDowell St., Matthews. 10am-noon. $10. Bring the entire family to decorate gingerbread houses. matthewsfun.org.

Holiday Trees for Wildlife. SEED Wildlife Garden at Wing Haven, 260 Ridgewood Ave. Recommended for ages 10 and younger. 10am-nooon. $15-$20 per family. Create edible ornaments for wildlife, crafting ornaments, completing a holiday scavenger hunt and listening to seasonal stories. Preregistration required. winghavengardens.com.

Krueger Reindeer Romp. Harris YMCA, 5900 Quail Hollow Road.

8am. $35+. Register for the 5K, or register kids for the free fun run and Olaf Obstacle Course. Finish off with hot chocolate, snacks and pictures with Santa. ymcacharlotte.org/harris/ reindeerromp.

Magic of Science. The Schiele Museum of Natural History, 1500 E. Garrison Blvd., Gastonia. 5:30-9pm. $15. Get into some mischief while exploring potions and magical creatures. Costumes are encouraged. schielemuseum.org Snowflake Science. McDowell Nature Preserve, 15222 S. York Road. Ages 5-11. 11:30am-12:30pm. $4. Explore snow crystal science while creating a paper snow crystal. Preregistration and parent participation required. parkandrec.com.

8 SUNDAY On Stage: Annie; The Best Christmas Pageant Ever; The Best Christmas Pageant Ever: The Musical; Charlotte Youth Ballet presents The Nutcracker; A Christmas Carol; Elf Jr.; Jacob Marley’s Christmas Carol; The Nutcracker Ballet; The Real Christmas Story; Retrieving the Lamb: Performance Reading.

See page 24.

Family Cooking: Gingerbread Lane.

Morrison Family YMCA, 9405 Bryant Farms Road. Ages 2 and older.

2-3:30pm. $10-$15. A professional

DECEMBER 2019 | charlotteparent.com

instructor leads families in a cooking experience. Preregistration required. ymcacharlotte.org.

Winter Home Hunt. McDowell Nature Preserve, 15222 S. York Road. Ages 5 and older. 2-3pm. FREE. Search for animals that didn’t travel south for the winter. Preregistration and parent participation required. parkandrec.com.

9 MONDAY On Stage: The Real Christmas Story. See page 24.

Christmas Craft. Ray’s Splash Planet, 215 N. Sycamore St. Ages 2.5-5. 10:3011:15 am. $5. Hear a themed story and make a related craft. This program includes swimming after the program.

Preregistration is required. parkandrec. com.

Now Showing: “The Grinch.” Myers Park Library, 1361 Queens Road.

4:30-6:45pm. FREE. Register online to come watch “The Grinch,” rated PG. cmlibrary.org.

Pajama Rama on the Plaza. Plaza Midwood Library, 1623 Central Ave. 7-7:30pm. FREE. Wear your pjs on the second Monday of each month for a family story time that is perfect for bedtime. cmlibrary.org.

10 TUESDAY On Stage: A Christmas Carol; The Real Christmas Story; and Robert Earl Keen Presents Countdown to Christmas. See page 24.

Crafty Kids. Town Hall, 315 MatthewsIndian Trail Road, Indian Trail. Ages 2.5-5. 11am-noon. $6. Each class brings a new theme while making arts and crafts. Registration required. indiantrail.org.

Girls in STEM at Discovery Place Kids.

Discovery Place Kids Huntersville, 105 Gilead Road, Huntersville. Ages 7-9.

4-4:45pm or 6-6:45pm. $15, includes museum admission. Register to participate in workshops with changing STEM topics. kids.discoveryplace.org.

Polar Express Party. Stanley Branch Library, 205 N. Peterson St., Stanley.

5-7pm. FREE. Come watch “The Polar Express” with hot chocolate. gastonlibrary.org.

Special Visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Mooresville Public Library, 304 S. Main St., Mooresville. 6-7pm.

FREE. Bring your cameras, and come enjoy a story time and visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus. ci.mooresville. nc.us/225/library.

11 WEDNESDAY On Stage: A Christmas Carol; Jacob Marley’s Christmas Carol; and The Real Christmas Story. See page 24.

Car Seats 101 Classes. Britax Child Safety, Inc., 4140 Pleasant Road, Fort Mill. 6:30-8:30pm. FREE. Nationally certified child passenger safety technicians work with adopting and expecting parents (28-36 weeks into pregnancy) to learn how to properly install a car seat. Bring your own car seat of any brand. us.britax.com/press/ car-seats-101-class.

Fire n’ Cocoa. McDowell Nature Preserve, 15222 S. York Road. 6-7:30pm. FREE. Practice fire safety and fire building techniques while enjoying hot cocoa.

Preregister online. parkandrec.com.

Levine Center for the Arts Stroller Tours. Mint Museum Uptown , 500 S. Tryon St. 10:30-11:30am. FREE. Parents and caregivers are invited to stroller tours, a series of docent-led museum tours that rotate between all three Levine Center for the Arts institutions. Registration is required.

Single-strollers only. mintmuseum.org.

STEAM 101: Escape Room. Independence Regional Library, 6000 Conference Drive. Ages 10-18. 2:30-3:30pm. FREE. Crack the case in a fun escape room experience. cmlibrary.org.

12 THURSDAY On Stage: A Christmas Carol; The Christmas Show; Jacob Marley’s Christmas Carol; and The Real Christmas Story. See page 24.

Big Books and Little Cooks. David W. Phillips Activity Center, 946 Burrage Road, Concord. Ages 2-5. 10am-11am. $5-$10. Come for a story and fun in the kitchen. This week features, “The Bears’ Christmas.” concordnc.gov.

Community Nativity Festival. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, HOLIDAY EVENT

› 7036 McIlwaine Road, Huntersville.

10am-8:30pm. FREE. View more than 400 nativity sets from around the world, and enjoy choral performances.

Create crafts and participate in a community service project. nativityfestival.com.

Preschool Playdate. BounceU Charlotte, 10624 Metromont Pkwy. Ages 5 and younger. 10am-noon. $8.

Preschoolers can bounce with their parents in a safe, climate-controlled facility. bounceu.com.

Special Visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Mooresville Public Library, 304 S. Main St., Mooresville. 10:30am.

FREE. Bring your cameras, and come enjoy a story time and visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus. ci.mooresville. nc.us/225/library.

Stories in 2 Languages: English and Spanish. Beatties Ford Road Regional Library, 2412 Beatties Ford Road.

10:30-11am. FREE. Engage your child with stories, songs and activities in English and Spanish. cmlibrary.org.

Stories in 2 Languages: Spanish.

Independence Regional Library, 6000 Conference Drive. 10:30-11am. FREE. Preschoolers can engage with stories, songs and activities in English and Spanish. cmlibrary.org.

Tega Cay Police Department Guided Light Tour. Glennon Center At Tega Cay Golf Club, 15083 Molokai Drive, Tega Cay. 5-8pm. FREE. Join the Tega Cay Police Department for treats, a Santa sighting and a guided light tour through Tega Cay. tegacaysc.org.

13 FRIDAY On Stage: The Best Christmas Pageant Ever; The Best Christmas Pageant Ever: The Musical; A Christmas Carol; The Christmas Show; It’s a Wonderful Life; Jacob Marley’s Christmas Carol; and The Real Christmas Story. See page 24.

Britax Car Seat Checking Station. Flint Hill Fire Dept. Station 1, 1950 Hwy. 21 Bypass, Fort Mill. 1-4pm. FREE. Meet with a nationally certified child passenger safety technician to learn the correct way to install a child’s car seat. us.britax.com.

Schleich Holiday Pop-Up. Concord Mills, 8111 Concord Mills Blvd., Concord.

Ages 2-12. 10am-9pm. FREE. Play with toys and see a life-size dinosaur. schleich-s.com.

14 SATURDAY On Stage: Annie; The Best Christmas Pageant Ever; The Best Christmas Pageant Ever: The Musical; A Carolina Pro Musica Christmas; A Christmas Carol; The Christmas Show; Harris Y presents the Nutcracker; It’s a Wonderful Life; Jacob Marley’s Christmas Carol; Magic of Christmas and the Singing Christmas Tree Family Performance; The Real Christmas Story; and Winds of the Season Holiday Concert. See page 24.

2nd Saturday at NASCAR Hall of Fame: Holidays at the Hall. NASCAR Hall of Fame, 400 E.Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. $18-$25, included with admission. Celebrate the holidays with a home track round-up. Create your own NASCAR holiday treasures, from a helmet to a trophy. nascarhall.com.

Arts Delivered: Clay Workshop.

McDowell Arts Center, 123 McDowell St., Matthews. Ages 6 and older.

10:45am-noon. $10. Create functional, seasonal clay projects. matthewsfun.org.

ASC Culture Blocks: Visual Art and Music Workshop. Scaleybark Library, 101 Scaleybark Road. 2-4pm. FREE. Each workshop features a different art project accompanied by live music. cmlibrary.org.

Bilingual Stories and Music. Mint Museum Randolph, 2730 Randolph Road. Recommended for ages 6 and younger. 11:15am-noon. FREE. Performers use a combination of stories in English and Spanish, music, toys, puppets and games to interact with the audience. mintmuseum.org.

Breakfast with Santa in Indian Trail.

Indian Trail Town Hall, 315 MatthewsIndian Trail Road, Indian Trail.

Sessions at 8:30 and 10am. $5. Enjoy breakfast at the North Pole with Santa.

Preregister for event. indiantrail.org.

Christmas Candlelight Tours. Historic Brattonsville, 1444 Brattonsville Road, McConnells. 3-9pm. $10. Advance tickets required.. Listen to fiddle music, and dance alongside interpreters in historic attire. Try candle dipping, listen to Christmas stories and have a warm drink by the campfire. chmuseums.org.

Christmas Enchantment in the Garden. Mount Holly Community Garden, 126 N. Main St., Mount Holly.

4-8pm. FREE. See 52 decorated garden beds, hundreds of luminaries, plus live music, food trucks, hot cider, cookies and a visit by Santa. mounthollycommunitygarden.com.

Clayworks: Family Workshop.

Tuckaseegee Recreation Center, 4820 Tuckaseegee Road.

10:30am-12:30pm. FREE. Clayworks leads participants in a hands-on clay workshop. parkandrec.com.

Enchanted Forest Bash. Reedy Creek Nature Preserve, 2900 Rocky River Road. 10-11:30am. $6. Walk through the woods, then enjoy hot chocolate while crafting as a family. parkandrec.com.

Holiday at the Hill. Strawberry Hill, Providence Road and Sardis Road.

1-4pm. FREE. Come out for face painters, trackless train, bounce house, carriage rides, goodie bags for kids, and a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus. paschalevents.com.

Holiday Make and Take. The Bridge at Arts+, 4100 Raleigh St. Noon4pm. FREE. Create festive arts and crafts. Materials and treats provided.

Preregister online. artsplus.org.

McDowell Arts Center Saturday Kids and Parents Clay Workshops.

McDowell Arts Center, 123 McDowell St., Matthews. Ages 6 and older. 9:3010:45am. $10. Create clay gingerbread houses. artsdelivered.com.

Stories in 2 Languages. Myers Park Library, 1361 Queens Road. Ages 3-5. 11-11:45am. FREE. Engage your child with stories, songs and activities in English, Mandarin Chinese and Spanish. cmlibrary.org.

Story Explorers: Build It. ImaginOn: The Joe and Joan Martin Center, 300 E. 7th St. Ages 5-11. 2-3pm. FREE.

CALENDAR

Explore stories and build structures using several different materials. cmlibrary.org.

Treats with Mrs. Claus. Museum of the Waxhaws, 8215 Waxhaw Hwy., Waxhaw. 1:30-3pm. $15 per parent and child. Come enjoy treats at the museum with Mrs. Claus. museumofthewaxhaws.org.

Winter Workshop: Weave a Holiday Basket. James K. Polk State Historic Site, 12031 Lancaster Hwy., Pineville.

Noon-4pm. $25. Learn to weave a festive basket. All skill levels welcome. jameskpolk.net.

15 SUNDAY On Stage: Annie; The Best Christmas Pageant Ever; The Best Christmas Pageant Ever: The Musical; A Christmas Carol; The Christmas Show; Harris Y presents the Nutcracker; It’s a Wonderful Life; Jacob Marley’s Christmas Carol; and The Real Christmas Story. See page 24.

Chanukah Game Night and Dinner.

Levine Jewish Community Center, 5007 Providence Road. 5-6:30pm. $5-$8, children 2 and younger FREE. Preschool families can celebrate Chanukah by playing Chanukah Bingo, Dreidel, Pin-the-Candle on the Menorah and more. charlottejcc.org.

Girl Tribe Pop Up. Charlotte Convention Center, 501 S. College St. Noon-5pm. $5-$10, children younger than 12 FREE. Come shop the day away.

General Admission includes a Girl Tribe tote bag and a La Croix beverage. girltribepopup.com/charlotte-attend/.

Santa Brunch at American Girl.

American Girl Store, 4400 Sharon Road. Ages 3 and older. 9-10:30am. $25. Bring a camera to strike a pose with St. Nick. americangirl.com/retail/ charlotte.php.

Sea of Lights. SEA LIFE CharlotteConcord Aquarium, 8111 Concord Mills Blvd., Concord. $13-$22, children 2 and younger admitted FREE. Wander through each zone of the aquarium DAILY CALENDAR CONTINUES ON PAGE 30

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Holiday Happenings COMPILED BY TIFFANY WOLFF AND MICHELE HUGGINS Belmont Festival of Trees. (Dec. 2-Jan., 1, 2020).

Stowe Park, 24 S. Main St., Belmont. 6-8pm. Free.

Enjoy a festive stroll down Main Street and through Stowe Park after dark to view the Christmas trees decorated by local businesses and organizations. cityofbelmont.org.

Christmas Town USA. (Dec. 2-26). McAdenville. Free.

Drive or stroll through McAdenville to see over 250 evergreens, covered with more than a half-million red, white and green lights, plus the town lake circled with dozens of evergreens, draped with hundreds of lights. mcadenville-christmastown.com.

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Leonard Bearstein Orchestra. (Dec. 2-27).

Founder’s Hall, 100 N. Tryon St. See website for schedule. The display of well-dressed animatronic bears perform classic holiday songs at Founders Hall in the Bank of America Corporate Center. The 45-minute performances are free and include timehonored holiday classics, such as “Rudolph the RedNosed Reindeer,” “Santa Claus is Coming to Town” and “We Wish You A Merry Christmas.” foundershall.info.

The Holiday Shop. (Dec. 4-7). Children’s Theatre of Charlotte, 300 E. 7th St. Free admission. Gifts range in price from 50 cents to $6. The Holiday Shop includes Santa’s Bag and The ENCORE! Boutique. Santa’s Bag

DECEMBER 2019 | charlotteparent.com

gives children ages 10 and younger the opportunity to shop for family and friends with the help of volunteer elves. The ENCORE! Boutique is a place for tweens, teens and adults to shop while children are shopping in Santa’s Bag. Santa will be in the lobby during the event. Wed.-Fri., 9am-11:30am and 4:307pm; Sat., 10am-2pm, or until merchandise sells out. ctcharlotte.org.

ChristmasVille. (Dec. 5-8). Throughout Rock Hill.

More than 70 events to welcome the holidays, including horse-drawn carriage rides, historic tours, strolling Dickens carolers, art, theater, dance, music, a gingerbread house contest, multiple Santa activities,

and a real ice-skating rink. christmasvillerockhill.com.

Gingerbread Lane. (Dec. 4-26). Ballantyne Hotel, 10000 Ballantyne Commons Pkwy. Free. Enjoy a stroll through Gingerbread Lane and cast your vote and donation for your favorite creation. Donations benefit Levine Children’s Hospital. Hot cocoa is available for purchase. theballantynehotel.com.

Christmas in Davidson. (Dec. 5-7). Downtown Davidson. 6-9pm. Free. Enjoy horse-drawn carriage and hay rides, an ugly sweater contest, a doggie fashion show and visits with Santa each night at Santa’s House. Santa arrives at Dec. 5 at 6:29pm in horse-drawn carriage. christmasindavidson.com.

A December to Remember at Promenade.

(Dec. 7, 14 and 21). Promenade on Providence, 10844 Providence Road. 3-5pm. Free. Celebrate the season at Promenade on Providence the first three Saturdays of December. promenadeonprovidence.com.

Blakeney Santa Photo Experience. (Through Dec. 22). Blakeney, Ardrey Kell and Rea roads. 980474-1660. Free. See Santa Claus in his custom-built house on the Village Green. See website for schedule. shopblakeney.com.

The Polar Express Train Ride. (Through Dec. 22). North Carolina Transportation Museum, 1 Samuel Spencer Drive, Spencer. 4-10pm. $32-$325. The Polar Express Train Ride, inspired by the run-away hit movie, features a train ride to the North Pole with dancing chefs, cookies, hot chocolate, Santa and a presentation of the first gift of Christmas. nctrans.org.

Charlotte Christmas Village. (Through Dec. 24).

Uptown Charlotte, 406 N. Tryon St. Free admission.

A German-inspired Christmas Market that includes traditional German foods, homemade crafts and gifts, and local musical performances. Closed Mondays.

Santa makes appearances on select dates. See website for Santa’ss schedule. cltchristmasvillage.com WinterFest. (Through Dec. 31). Carowinds, 14523 Carowinds Blvd. $48+, children ages 5 and younger free with Pre-K Pass. Carowinds is transformed into a winter wonderland with spectacular holiday experiences. Fri., 5-10pm; Sat., 2-10pm; Sun., 4-10pm. carowinds.com.

Christmas Wonderland of Lights. (Through Jan. 1, 2020). Zootastic Park, 385 Ostwalt Amity Road, Troutman. $7, ages 2 and younger free. Drive through reindeer forest, and see the Christmas Wonderland of Lights. Check out the animal feedings, carousel rides and train rides. S’mores will be available for purchase. Sun.-Thur.,6-9pm; Fri.-Sat., 6-10pm. zootasticpark.com.

Holidays at the Garden. (Through Jan. 5, 2020). Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden, 6500 New Hope Road, Belmont.

5-9pm. $10-$19. Walk the garden to see musical topiaries and thousands of lights. Mrs. Claus visits Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden Friday through Sunday through Dec. 22 and Christmas Eve from 6-8pm. Santa Claus is available for professional photos with families on Dec. 2, 9 and 16 from 5-8:30pm with additional fee and reservations. Santa is also available Tuesday through Thursday from Dec. 2-19 from 5:30-8:30pm for personal photos. dsbg.org.

Ice Skating and “Lights.” (Through February).

U.S. National Whitewater Center, 5000 Whitewater Center Pkwy. Ice skating and “Lights” is included with activity pass or annual pass. Skate on an ice trail or free skate on 17,000 sq. ft of ice. Located in the upper pond of the Whitewater Center, the skating environment features three distinct programming areas and an on-ice Airstream serving hot and cold beverages. “Lights” is a half-mile walking trail featuring immersive light installations created by Charlotte artist Meredith Connelly. usnwc.org.

Holiday on Ice (Through Jan. 5, 2020). NASCAR Hall of Fame, 400 E. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. $12-$16.

Uptown Charlotte’s outdoor ice rink returns to the NASCAR Hall of Fame Plaza. Take a picture with the giant polar bear, under the tree or in the decorated Ceremonial Garden. holidaysatthehall.com.

Speedway Christmas. (Through Jan. 5, 2020).

Charlotte Motor Speedway, 5555 Concord Pkwy. S., Concord. 6:30-11:30pm. $20-$30. Drive 3.75 miles with 3.5 million lights. Every Thursday through Sunday, the indoor Christmas Village will include photos with Santa, children’s activities, a display of decorated Christmas trees, vendors and specialty foods. Do not miss the live nativity, Ferris wheel, merry go round and carriage rides outside. charlottemotorspeedway.com.

Founders Holiday Ice Rink. (Through Jan. 20, 2020). Downtown Rock Hill, 205 Saluda St. $10, includes skates. onlyinoldtown.com/ icerink Winter Wonderland Skating Rink. (Through Jan. 20, 2020). Symphony Park at Southpark Mall, 4400 Sharon Road. All ages. $12-$17. Skate on the 5,000 square-foot ice rink, enjoy holiday lights and decor, Santa’s pub, a coffee shop, live music, surprise guests and festive activities. winterwonderlandsouthpark.com.

SEE TREE LIGHTINGS AND CHRISTMAS PARADES ONLINE AT CHARLOTTEPARENT.COM/ THINGSTODO. charlotteparent.com | DECEMBER 2019

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CALENDAR DAILY CALENDAR CONTINUED FROM PAGE 27

to experience thousands of Christmas lights. Scuba Claus Dive Show at 1:45 and 2:45pm. visitsealife.com/charlotteconcord/.

Winter Wonderland Drop-In. McDowell Nature Preserve, 15222 S. York Road. 1-5pm. FREE. Drop-by the nature center for a hike, game, craft or scavenger hunt. 9am-5pm. parkandrec.com.

16 MONDAY On Stage: The Real Christmas Story. See page 24.

Elf in the Woods. Chestnut Square Park, 299 Chestnut Pkwy., Indian Trail. Ages 2-5. 11am-noon. $10. Chestnut, the elf, has been up to mischief. Follow his trail back to the North Pole. indiantrail.org.

Nature Detectives: Bountiful Birds.

Latta Nature Center, 6211 Sample Road, Huntersville. Ages 4-6. 1:30-3pm. $6. Uncover the mysteries of nature through stories, crafts and activities related to the topic of the week. parkandrec.com.

Pajama-Rama on The Plaza. Plaza Midwood Library, 1623 Central Ave. 7-7:30pm. FREE. Enjoy stories, songs and movement activities in your pajamas. cmlibrary.org.

Preschool Holiday Party. Cornelius Arts Center, 19725 Oak St., Cornelius.

Ages 3-6. 10am-noon. FREE. Come for a holiday party complete with snacks, crafts and a movie. Preregistration required. cornelius.org.

Preschool Playtime. Carolina Stars, 1080 Maxwell Mill Road, Fort Mill.

10:30am-12pm. $5, cash only. 803548-3441. Come play in the open gym. Kids younger than 3 must have an adult present at all times. carolinastarsgym.com.

Story Explorers: Stop the Grinch.

Myers Park Library, 1361 Queens Road.

Ages 5-11. 6:15-7pm. FREE. Learn about holiday books, conduct a Grinchthemed physics experiment, and enjoy holiday music and treats. Register online. cmlibrary.org.

30

Young Explorers: Bountiful Birds. Latta Nature Center, 6211 Sample Road, Huntersville. Ages 2-3. 10:15-11am. $4. Discover nature through stories and activities related to the topic of the week. parkandrec.com.

17 TUESDAY On Stage: The Real Christmas Story. See page 24.

ASC Culture Blocks: Clayworks for Teens. Independence Regional Library, 6000 Conference Drive. Teen. 2:303:30pm. FREE. Teens are invited to this hands-on clay workshop. cmlibrary.org.

From Page to Screen: “The Grinch.”

Hickory Grove Library, 5935 Hickory Grove Road. Ages 5-11. 5:30-6:30pm.

FREE. See the story brought to life on screen! This movie is rated PG. cmlibrary.org.

Holiday Bash at Fort Mill Public Library. Fort Mill Public Library, 1818 2nd Baxter Crossing, Fort Mill. Ages 11-17. 5-6:30pm. FREE. Enjoy fun holiday games, snacks and prizes.

Register online. yclibrary.org.

Preschool Storytime: Jingle Bells.

Myers Park Library, 1361 Queens Road. Ages 3-5. 11-11:30am. FREE. Attend this special story time with stories, songs, a take-home craft and a special gift for each preschooler and adult. cmlibrary.org.

Stories in 2 Languages: English and Spanish. ImaginOn: The Joe & Joan Martin Center, 300 E. 7th St. Ages 3-5.

11:30am-noon. FREE. This program is intended for both Spanish language families and those who want to expose children to a second language. cmlibrary.org.

Story Time and More. SEED Wildlife Garden at Wing Haven, 260 Ridgewood Ave. Recommended for ages 10 and younger. 10am-noon. $10 per family.

Join Rutherford Rabbit to enjoy two stories and two crafts in the SEED Wildlife Garden. Register in advance. winghavengardens.org.

18 WEDNESDAY On Stage: Jacob Marley’s Christmas Carol; and The Real Christmas Story. See page 24.

DECEMBER 2019 | charlotteparent.com

Creating with Books: Gingerbread Man. University City Regional Library, 301 E. W.T. Harris Blvd. 11:15am-12:15pm.

FREE. Listen to a Gingerbread Man story and extend learning through a variety of hands-on activities to celebrate the season. cmlibrary.org.

Family Storytime: Cookies. ImaginOn: The Joe & Joan Martin Center, 300 E. 7th St. 10:30-11am. FREE. Enjoy stories and songs about baking, followed by a cookie-themed craft and tasty treats. cmlibrary.org.

Rookie Science Jr: Candy Science.

Morrison Regional Library, 7015 Morrison Blvd. Ages 4-6. 4-5pm. FREE. Explore the science of candy making.

Register online. cmlibrary.org.

Stories in 2 Languages: English and French. Matthews Library, 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews. Ages 5-11. 6:30-7pm. FREE. Engage your child with stories, songs and activities in English and French. cmlibrary.org.

Wheels of Steel DJ Classes. Tuckaseegee Recreation Center, 4820 Tuckaseegee Road. Ages 11-17. 6-7pm. FREE. This teaches scratching, blending and creating beats. The program also teach the business side of entrepreneurship. parkandrec.com.

Winter Wednesdays. Waverly Charlotte.

5-7:30pm. FREE. Visit Waverly for some mid-week cheer that includes music, shopping, treats and a visit from Santa. waverlyclt.com.

19 THURSDAY On Stage: Jacob Marley’s Christmas Carol; The Real Christmas Story; and Rudolph The Red Nosed Reindeer: The Musical. See page 24.

Holiday Bash at Lake Wylie Public Library. Lake Wylie Public Library, 185 Blucher Circle, Lake Wylie. Ages 11-17.

6-7:30pm. FREE. Enjoy fun holiday games, snacks and prizes. Registration required. yclibrary.org.

Milk and Cookies with Mrs. Claus.

Main Library Rock Hill, 138 E. Black St., Rock Hill. 6-7pm. FREE. Come for an evening of holiday fun and stories while snuggled up in pajamas. Register online. yclibrary.org.

Puppet Show at ImaginOn. ImaginOn: The Joe and Joan Martin Center, 300 E. 7th St. 11:30am-noon. FREE. See a puppet show with songs and activities that support early literacy and foster a love of books. cmlibrary.org.

Rookie Science: Candy Science. Morrison Regional Library, 7015 Morrison Blvd.

Ages 7-11. 4-5pm. FREE. Explore the science of candy making. Preregister online. cmlibrary.org.

“Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker” Opening Night Fundraiser for IGNITE. Our Town Cinemas, 227 Griffith St., Davidson. 7-10pm. $25.

This opening night showing benefits the IGNITE Program for individuals with high-functioning autism and Asperger syndrome. Each ticket includes any size popcorn and any size soft drink. riseofskywalker.eventbrite.com.

Story Explorers: Campfire Songs and Stories. Myers Park Library, 1361 Queens Road. Ages 5-11. 7-7:30pm.

FREE. Explore songs and stories through interactive activities. Register online. cmlibrary.org.

20 FRIDAY On Stage: The Best Christmas Pageant Ever: The Musical; Cirque Dreams Holidaze; It’s a Wonderful Life; Jacob Marley’s Christmas Carol; The Real Christmas Story; and A Soulful Noel. See page 24.

Celebrate the Holidays in Downtown Mooresville. Downtown Mooresville, Broad and Main Streets, Mooresville.

6-8pm. FREE. Experience music, Santa visits, Christmas Tree Lane, wagon rides, life size snow globe, Holiday Light Spectacular and more. Wagon rides begin at the Christian Mission on Broad Street. downtownmooresville.com/ signature-events.

Coloring n’ Cocoa. McDowell Nature Preserve, 15222 S. York Road. Ages 2 and older. 9am-3pm. FREE. Enjoy time with your family coloring and drinking during this drop-in program. parkandrec.com.

Digital Animation. Beatties Ford Road Regional Library, 2412 Beatties Ford Road. Ages 10-18. 3-3:45pm. FREE. Learn how to create animation clips HOLIDAY EVENT

› using a variety of tools and materials. cmlibrary.org.

Little Bit Fit Time. Charlotte Allstar Gymnastics and Cheerleading, 11011 Monroe Road, Matthews. Ages toddlerTK. 10:30am-noon. $3-$5. With parental guidance, toddlers can jump on the trampoline, play in the foam pit and craw through obstacles. Cash only. charlotteallstars.net.

W8less LKN Flips-n-Giggles. W8Less LKN, 10442-A Bailey Road, Cornelius.

Ages 5 and younger. 10am-1pm. $10 per hour. Young children can jump with other little ones. Parents and caregivers jump free. W8less socks required. w8lesslkn.com.

21 SATURDAY WINTER SOLSTICE On Stage: The Best Christmas Pageant Ever: The Musical; Cirque Dreams Holidaze; It’s a Wonderful Life; Jacob Marley’s Christmas Carol; The Real Christmas Story; and A Soulful Noel. See page 24.

ASC Culture Blocks: Clayworks. Mint Hill Library, 6840 Matthews-Mint Hill Road, Mint Hill. Ages 5 and older.

2-4pm. FREE. Join Clayworks for a hands-on pottery making workshop. cmlibrary.org.

ASC Culture Blocks: Drums4Life. West Boulevard Library, 2157 West Blvd.

11am-1pm. FREE. Join Drums4Life drum circle; D4L provides instructions and instruments. Register online. cmlibrary.org.

Cars and Coffee Concord. Charlotte Motor Speedway, 5555 Concord Pkwy. S., Concord. 7-10am. FREE. Car owners and enthusiasts gather to celebrate their passion for cars and showcase their prized classics, customs and hot rods. charlottemotorspeedway.com.

Christmas: Brunch with Santa.

Tom Sykes Recreation Center, 1501 Euclid Ave. Ages 1-11. 10am-noon. $6. Tell Santa if you have been naughty or nice while making holiday crafts. Preregistration required. parkandrec.com.

Family Cooking: Family Breakfast.

Morrison Family YMCA, 9405 Bryant Farms Road. Ages 2 and older.

10-11:30am. $10-$15. A professional instructor leads families in an engaging cooking experience. End class by enjoying a family activity and the food you created. Preregistration required. ymcacharlotte.org.

Family Storytime: Daddies and Donuts. ImaginOn: The Joe & Joan Martin Center, 300 E. 7th St. 9:159:45am. FREE. In this special story time, come share donuts and stories with your dad, grandpa, uncle or caregiver. cmlibrary.org.

Intro to Dance. Elon Recreation Center, 11401 Ardrey Kell Road. Ages 6-13.

1-2pm. $10. Explore the expressive, active and creative benefits of dance. parkandrec.com.

Plant a Present. Latta Nature Center, 6211 Sample Road, Huntersville. Ages 4-15. 10-11:30am. $15. Kids create a planted gift to give this holiday season. parkandrec.com.

Winter Wonderland Drop-In. McDowell Nature Preserve, 15222 S. York Road. 9am-5pm. FREE. Drop-by the nature center for free, familyfriendly winter activities. Each day features either a hike, game, craft or scavenger hunt. 9am-5pm; Dec. 30, 9am-5pm; Dec. 31, 9am-5pm. parkandrec.com.

Holiday Cookie Showdown.

Mooresville Public Library, 304 S. Main St., Mooresville. Ages 13-18. Noon2pm. FREE. Teens across Iredell County are invited to compete in a cookie baking contest. Find details on website. ci.mooresville.nc.us.

22 SUNDAY FIRST DAY OF HANNUKAH On Stage: The Best Christmas Pageant Ever: The Musical, Cirque Dreams Holidaze, It’s a Wonderful Life, Jacob Marley’s Christmas Carol, The Real Christmas Story. See page 24.

Breakfast with Santa at NASCAR Hall of Fame. NASCAR Hall of Fame, 400 E. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.

8:30am or 10:30am. $22-$25, children younger than 2 FREE. This all-inclusive experience features breakfast, a visit and picture with Santa, crafts and reindeer games plus. Each child ticket

to Breakfast with Santa includes sameday complimentary admission to the ice rink on the NASCAR Hall of Fame Plaza. holidaysatthehall.com.

Charlotte Checkers V. Lehigh Valley.

BoPlex, 2700 E. Independence Blvd.

1pm. $18.50+. This afternoon game features the Novant Health Postgame Skate. gocheckers.com.

Hanukkah Celebration Event.

SouthPark Mall, 4400 Sharon Road.

FREE. A special SouthPark Hanukkah event celebrates the season with activities for the whole family. simon. com/mall/southpark/.

McDowell Winter Hike. McDowell Nature Preserve, 15222 S. York Road. Ages 7 and older. 11:30am-1pm. FREE. Explore the difference in the preserve during the winter. Registration is required. parkandrec.com.

23 MONDAY Menorah Lighting. Downtown Waxhaw, E. N. Main Street, Waxhaw.

5:30-6:30pm. FREE. Come watch the community lighting of the menorah. waxhaw.com.

Super Play Time. Superior Play Systems, 11415 Granite St., Suite C. 10am-6pm. $8 on school holidays. Drop in for safe play on the equipment indoors. superiorplay.com/play-time.

24 TUESDAY CHRISTMAS EVE Preschool Storytime: Just for Me. North County Regional Library, 16500 Holly Crest Lane, Huntersville. Ages 3-5. 11-11:45am. FREE. Preschoolers hear stories and sing songs without a parent or caregiver present in order to foster independence and growth. cmlibrary.org.

Santa’s Wonderland at Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s. Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s locations, 8181 Concord Mills Blvd., Concord. FREE. Santa’s Wonderland offers free photos with Santa and free family holiday crafts, games and activities. basspro.com.

25 WEDNESDAY CHRISTMAS DAY

CALENDAR

26 THURSDAY

Toddler Time at Sky Zone. Sky Zone, 10200 Centrum Pkwy., Pineville. Ages 5 and younger. 10-11am. $8. Little ones bounce under the supervision of their parents and without interference from bigger kids. Jumpers need sky socks, which are available for purchase, and a signed waiver. skyzone.com/pineville.

Undeck the Hall. NASCAR Hall of Fame, 400 E. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.

10am. $18-$25, included with general admission. Fans are each permitted to select a gift from one of the many trees decorated with NASCAR-themed items like autographed souvenirs, die-cast cars, race tickets and sheet metal. holidaysatthehall.com.

27 FRIDAY On Stage: The Best Christmas Pageant Ever: The Musical; and A Charlie Brown Christmas. See page 24.

Family Storytime. ImaginOn: The Joe and Joan Martin Center, 300 E. 7th St. 10:30-11am. FREE. Enjoy stories, songs and movement activities as a family. cmlibrary.org.

Messy By Nature. Latta Nature Center, 6211 Sample Road, Huntersville. Ages 5-11. 1:30pm. $4. Get dirty while learning about nature and creating nature-inspired crafts. Registration and parent attendance are required. parkandrec.com.

28 SATURDAY On Stage: The Best Christmas Pageant Ever: The Musical; Cirque de Noel; and The Real Christmas Story. See page 24.

ASC Culture Blocks: Clayworks for Families. Hickory Grove Library, 5935 Hickory Grove Road. 1-3pm.

FREE. Create artwork in this handson workshop. Register online. cmlibrary.org.

ASC Culture Blocks: Visual Art and Music Community Experiences.

Independence Regional Library, 6000 Conference Drive. 2-4pm. FREE. Participate in a visual art workshop series while enjoying live music. cmlibrary.org.

charlotteparent.com | DECEMBER 2019

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CALENDAR HOLIDAY EVENTS FOR SPECIAL NEEDS

DEC. 1 AND 8 Caring Santa. SouthPark Mall, 4400 Sharon Road. 9-10:30am. Photos available for purchase.

A private event for children and young adults with special needs and their families to take a photo with Santa. simon.com/mall/southpark/newsand-events.

DEC. 3 Signing Santa. Northlake Mall, 6801 Northlake Mall Drive. 9am-1pm. Photos available for purchase. shopnorthlake.com.

DEC. 7 Caring Santa at Concord Mills. Concord Mills, 8111 Concord Mills Blvd., Concord. 9-11am. Photos available for purchase. A sensory-friendly interaction with Santa. simon.com/mall/concord-mills.

Sensory Event with Santa. Carolina Place Mall, 11025 Carolina Pl ace Pkwy. 10am-noon. Photos available for purchase. carolinaplace.com.

Sensory Friendly Sunday at SeaLife Aquarium. SEA LIFE Charlotte-Concord Aquarium, 8111 Concord Mills Blvd., Concord. 9-11am. Children on the autism spectrum or children with sensory processing disorders are invited to the aquarium two hours before the public for a sensory friendly underwater journey. Preregister online. visitsealife. com/charlotte-concord/.

Soothing Santa. Northlake Mall, 6801 Northlake Mall Drive. 8-11am. Picture packages available for purchase. An exclusive, sensory-friendly event. shopnorthlake.com.

DEC. 15 Magical Morning: A Sensory-Friendly Santa Experience. NASCAR Hall of Fame, 400 E. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. 9am-noon. $15 per family.

Meet Santa, make a craft and see a Christmas movie with the lights up and the sound down. holidaysatthehall.com.

CALENDAR POLICY 32

Rookie Science. Sugar Creek Library, 4045 North Tryon St., Suite A. Ages 5-11. 2-3pm. FREE. Discover the world of science through books, activities and experiments. cmlibrary.org.

Snap, Crackle, Pop. Latta Nature Center, 6211 Sample Road, Huntersville. Ages 5-12. 12:30-2:30pm. FREE. Make “fireworks” and noisemakers, and decorate the night sky with colorful lights. parkandrec.com.

Stone Theaters: Sensory Friendly Screenings. Stone Theaters, RedStone 14 Cinemas, 9650 Red Stone Drive, (Sun Valley 14 in Indian Trail, RedStone 14 in Indian Land), Indian Land. 10am. $5. Sensory Friendly Screenings are designed for a sensitive audience in a safe and accepting environment. See “Spies in Disguise.” stonetheatres.com/ sensoryfriendlymoviescreenings.

Stories in 2 Languages. Myers Park Library, 1361 Queens Road. Ages 3-5. 11-11:45am. FREE. Engage your child with stories, songs and activities in English, Mandarin Chinese and Spanish. cmlibrary.org.

WinterFest. Carowinds, 14523 Carowinds Blvd. $48+, children ages 5 and younger free with Pre-K Pass. Carowinds is transformed into a winter wonderland with spectacular holiday experiences.

Fri., 5-10pm; Sat., 2-10pm; Sun., 4-10pm. carowinds.com.

29 SUNDAY

31 TUESDAY

On Stage: The Best Christmas Pageant Ever: The Musical; and Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker. See page 24.

Speedway Christmas. Charlotte Motor Speedway, 5555 Concord Pkwy. S., Concord. 6:30-11:30pm. $20-$30.

Drive 3.75 miles with 3.5 million lights. Every Thursday through Sunday, the indoor Christmas Village includes photos with Santa, children’s activities, a display of decorated Christmas trees, vendors and specialty foods. Do not miss the live nativity, Ferris wheel, merry go round and carriage rides outside. charlottemotorspeedway.com.

NEW YEAR’S EVE On Stage: NarroWay Mystery Theatre. See page 24.

Belk Bowl. Bank of America Stadium, 800 S. Mint St. Noon. $35.43+.

Watch the ACC battle the SEC at Bank of America Stadium. Come to the Belk Bowl Fan Fest at 9am for food, drinks and interactives for the family. belkbowl.com.

CM Library Presents: Noon Year’s Eve. Come for activities, stories, music and a countdown to noon in celebration of the New Year!

Preregister online. FREE. Ages 3-11.

11a.-noon. Myers Park Library, 1361 Queens Road. cmlibrary.org.

30 MONDAY ASC Culture Blocks: Get Creative with Clay. Independence Regional Library, 6000 Conference Drive. Ages 5-11. 3-4pm. FREE. Join in a handson pottery making workshop.

Register online. cmlibrary.org.

Winter Festival. Beatties Ford Road Regional Library, 2412 Beatties Ford Road. 2-4pm. FREE. Celebrate the new season with storytelling, literacy activities, music, treats and more. cmlibrary.org.

Winter Wonderland Drop-In. McDowell Nature Preserve, 15222 S. York Road. 9am-5pm. FREE. Dropby the nature center for free, familyfriendly winter activities. Each day features either a hike, game, craft or scavenger hunt. parkandrec.com.

Charlotte Hornets V. Boston Celtics.

Spectrum Center, 333 E. Trade St. 3pm. $18+. Watch the Charlotte Hornets take on the Boston Celtics. nba.com/hornets/schedule.

Countdown to Noon. Cornelius Library, 21105 Catawba Ave., Cornelius. Ages 3-11. 11am-noon.

FREE. Attend this New Year’s Eve celebration to count down to noon.

Preregister online. cmlibrary.org.

Listen and Move: Baby New Year’s Eve Bash. University City Regional Library, 301 East W.T. Harris Blvd. Ages 2 and younger. 10:1511:15am. Children and parents can participate in songs and movement activities that build gross and fine motor skills. Activities will be highenergy to celebrate New Year’s Eve. FREE. cmlibrary.org.

New Year’s Eve at WinterFest.

Surrounded by the shimmering lights and holiday decor of WinterFest, Carowinds’ countdown celebration features bands and fireworks. $48+, children ages 5 and younger free with Pre-K Pass.

5pm-1am. Carowinds, 14523 Carowinds Blvd. carowinds.com.

Noon Year Celebration. Ring in the New Year at noon with a balloon drop and other festive activities.

This is a ticketed event with limited capacity; the museum is closed to the public on Dec. 31 and open only for this ticketed event. $5-$15. 10am-2pm. Discovery Place Kids-Huntersville, 105 Gilead Road, Huntersville. kids. discoveryplace.org.

Sparkle and Glow New Year’s Eve. Celebrate New Year’s Eve with this family-friendly event featuring crafts and activities for kids. $8–$15. 5-9pm. Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden, 6500 S. New Hope Road, Gastonia. dsbg.org.

The Charlotte Parent calendar lists free and low-cost local and regional events for children and families. To submit an event for consideration, go to charlotteparent.com/calendar, then click on Submit an Event. Submission deadline for print is the 1st of the month prior to the next month’s publication. Time, dates and details of events are subject to change. Call venue to confirm.

DECEMBER 2019 | charlotteparent.com

HOLIDAY EVENT

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DADDY DEREK

6 Holiday Do’s and Don’ts to Keep the Season Jolly

BY DEREK JAMES

T

his month, as we find ourselves running in so many different directions, it’s especially important to pace ourselves.

With all the holiday festivities along with the everyday excitement, it can be easy to feel a bit overwhelmed. We’ve all learned lessons over the years about how to keep things in perspective during family gatherings and hectic holiday schedules, but I thought I’d share some my wife and I have figured out with our guys. Hey, a little experience goes a long way.

Don’t Use Santa as a Threat Sure, the big guy “knows when you’re awake,” but empty threats from Mom and Dad never work. You damage your credibility when you say things like, “You won’t get presents if ...”

Same goes for the always watching Elf on the Shelf. To this day, I’m scarred by Saint Nick coming into my first-grade classroom and throwing coal on my desk.

Don’t Compete With Others Whether it is decorations, gifts or anything else, don’t compare yourself to other parents.

The holiday season is not a competition — not between you and Santa, between you and the grandparents, or you and the neighbors. It’s also important to remember that not every kid gets an equal number of gifts at Christmas. Keep in mind that if you brag about gifts you receive, chances are good your kids will do the same. Talk less about gifts and more about family, friends, festiveness and faith.

Don’t go Without a Post-Christmas Plan We spend so much time thinking about

and preparing for the big day itself that we often have nothing going on in the days after Christmas. The kids are out of school until after the New Year, and the last thing you want is an entire winter break spent with your children sitting in front of screens. Plan some family activities for the week between Christmas and New Year’s Day. You don’t need to spend a ton of money. I recommend checking out Charlotte Parent’s online calendar for some ideas (wink wink).

Don’t Stress so Much Nothing steals the “jolly” from a day like a meltdown tantrum. Most kids don’t like having to go from one place to another all day long.

When you think ahead and set expectations, you and your kids are less likely to have a holiday meltdown. If you put too much on your plate and start getting full of stress and anxiety, some of that negative energy can transfer to your kids. It’s a thing. Be cool and they’ll be cool.

Don’t Make Major Changes Just like the sound advice against giving a puppy for Christmas, this time of year is not the time to start making big changes to your parenting style. What’s more, Christmas dinner is not when you start demanding your kids try a bunch of new foods. If eating at home, let them help with the meal planning.

While you aren’t going to go along with French fries as a viable side, letting them pick a few side dishes can’t hurt. If having dinner at Grandma’s house or somewhere else outside your home, remind the kids to politely decline anything they’ve tried and don’t like. A kid saying someone’s food is “nasty” is never an acceptable response.

Be Present, be Merry This is one of the worst times of year to get lost in all the things you need to do — or worse, lost looking at your phone. Swiping away and looking at what everyone else is doing for the holidays instead of talking with the people right in front of you is all too common.

One of the best ways to strengthen family relationships is to make a conscious effort to communicate better. It works for everyone.

Playing games and chatting is one of the best ways to keep kids involved and make great holiday memories. Maybe add a new board game to your wish list.

Derek James is a host of WCCB’s News Rising.

He and his wife are parents to Tyler, 10, and Chase, 8.