Bright lights on buildings and actors on stages. Parades in the streets and an elf for the ages. Bluegrass and sweet treats and bright, shiny bling. These are a few of our favorite things.
1. A Christmas Carol – The Temple Theatre
December 4-21
Temple Theatre’s own original musical adaptation is back by popular demand. Join Scrooge, Bob Cratchit, Tiny Tim and a host of colorful characters for a remarkable holiday production of the beloved Charles Dickens classic. Embrace the spirit of the season wrapped in wonder, holiday magic and your favorite yuletide melodies presented live onstage. In our humble opinion, the holidays just aren’t the holidays without A Christmas Carol. Tickets available for multiple show dates.
2. Holiday on Main
November 1
Kick off the season early in Broadway, NC! See Main Street transform into a festive wonderland, complete with pop-up vendors and the scent of fresh baked treats drifting from local restaurants. Spend the afternoon browsing boutiques, sampling seasonal snacks, and discovering handmade gifts in each shop. It’s the perfect celebration to spark your holiday spirit and support the local businesses that make Broadway shine.
3. Downtown Sanford Holiday Open House
November 9
Few things feel more festive than Downtown Sanford dressed for the holidays. During the annual Holiday Open House, local merchants open their doors for a day of exclusive sales, seasonal décor, and community cheer. Take your time strolling the sidewalks, enjoy hot cider or cocoa from a nearby café, and hop aboard the free event trolley to explore all 17 blocks of our vibrant downtown district. It’s a picture-perfect way to start your holiday shopping and soak in the spirit of the season.
4. Southern Touch Craft Show Christmas In Sanford
November 15
Looking for a one-of-a-kind gift? You’ll find it here! The Southern Touch Craft Show brings together an incredible lineup of vendors for one day only at the Dennis A. Wicker Civic & Conference Center. Browse booths filled with locally made treasures, from pottery and glass art to woodworking, metalwork, and hand-poured candles—all created with heart and craftsmanship. With just a $5 entry fee (and free admission for kids under 12), it’s the perfect family-friendly outing and an ideal way to support small businesses while checking off your holiday shopping list.
5. Sunday With Santa
November 23
Nothing spreads holiday cheer quite like a visit from Santa himself! Join the festivities at the Visit Sanford Welcome Center for a joyful afternoon of children’s crafts, local performances, and plenty of sweet treats. Sip hot cocoa while enjoying live music on Carthage Street, and stay for the annual tree lighting at dusk. Be sure to bring your camera—Santa will be greeting families on the Welcome Center porch!
6. Small Business Saturday
November 29
Skip the Black Friday crowds and shop local during Downtown Sanford’s 8th annual Holiday Punch Card program! For every $50 spent at participating businesses, you’ll be entered to win prizes from local shops and restaurants. It’s a fun, festive way to win big by shopping small and support your community this holiday season.
7. Sanford Christmas Parade
December 1
A holiday favorite for more than 60 years, the Sanford Christmas Parade fills downtown with marching bands, dazzling floats, and plenty of seasonal spirit. Families line the streets each year to wave at performers, sip hot cocoa, and catch a glimpse of Santa himself as he closes out the night. It’s a timeless tradition that truly captures the magic of Christmas in Sanford.
8. Broadway Town Lights & Tree Lighting
December 7
There’s nothing like heading over to Broadway, NC for the holidays. Especially, when there’s much holiday sparkle to take in. Load the entire family into the car for the drive-through spectacular that is Broadway Lights starting Dec. 7th. There’s also the annual tree lighting at NC Veteran’s Memorial to add to your holiday merriment.
9. Broadway Old Fashioned Christmas Parade
December 13
Get a double dose of holiday magic at Broadway’s Old Fashioned Christmas Parade, a “pretty fantastic processional” filled with festive floats, music, and plenty of Christmas cheer. Come early and stay late to shop, dine, and enjoy the celebration with local merchants along Main Street.
