Makemagical memories in Winston-Salem this holiday season with whimsical events, historic adventures, and festive fun without the crowds.

The 2026 Good Housekeeping Travel Award-winning destination goes all-in on the holidays, with 50+ events between now and the new year, so we narrowed it down for you:

Christmas at Old Salem
A visit to Old Salem Museum & Gardens is as close as you can get to time-traveling. The historic village welcomes guests with festive period decor, costumed interpreters, centuries-old holiday traditions, and visits with St. Nick himself, 10-4 p.m. during Salem Saturdays at Christmas.

Take a lantern-lit journey through original Old Salem buildings during Joy of Christmas Evening Tours, offered every Friday + Saturday evening until Dec. 20.

Tanglewood Festival of Lights
Now in its 34th season, Tanglewood Festival of Lights (about 15 minutes from downtown Winston-Salem) twinkles with five miles of holiday light displays. The route features 80+ festive scenes comprised of more than 1 million lights — one of the largest light displays in the Southeast.

Holidays at Reynolda
Reynolda House has been an opulent seasonal marvel since 1917, when the estate’s original owners, R.J. and Katharine Reynolds, began decorating the entire 34,000-sqft home with trees, wreaths, and holly-filled vases.

Grab tickets to explore the estate and gardens' seasonal splendor, and stop by Reynolda Village for local shopping and dining. Pro tip: Stay overnight at Reynolda House for the full experience.

Spectacular Holiday Blooms
If you can’t get enough gardens, Paul J. Ciener Botanical Garden transforms into a glowing display for the holiday season. Spectacular Holiday Blooms illuminates the gardens with thousands of recycled tulips and flowers. Admission is just $5 for adults and free for kids.

Plan your seasonal stay