Why Tweetsie Christmas is North Carolina's top holiday event for Families
When the holiday season arrives in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, something magical happens at Tweetsie Railroad. Families gather to step back in time and experience Tweetsie Christmas, a one-of-a-kind holiday celebration that blends Wild West adventure with old-time festive traditions. From the glow of Christmas lights to the nostalgia of a historic steam-powered Christmas train ride, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Here’s a sneak peek into what you can expect when you visit Tweetsie Christmas.
This seasonal event is ideal for multi-generational groups; children, parents, and grandparents can share something memorable in one evening.
Here are five standout features that set Tweetsie Christmas apart from typical holiday events.1. Historic steam-train ride through a holiday light spectacle
One of the biggest draws: you board a steam locomotive for a three-mile open-air ride through mountain scenery and festive lighting. This “holiday train ride” isn’t just a photo op; it’s a storybook experience set to carols.
2. Visit Santa in a Gingerbread House full of holiday surprises
Santa awaits inside a giant gingerbread house on site. Children can share their wish list and pose for holiday photos in a whimsical, candy-and-light-filled setting. This attraction appeals especially to families with younger children looking for the traditional “meet Santa” moment.
3. Festive amusement rides & exclusive seasonal attractions
Beyond the train ride and décor, the park offers four classic amusement rides plus a special “Blizzard” attraction for the holiday season. Rides are decorated in light and holiday themes. Young children will appreciate options like Bikes & Buggies and Jingle Bell Rockets; family rides include the Little Drummer Boy teacup and Himalaya.
4. Family-friendly live holiday show & caroling
Each evening features a live holiday show with music, laughter and seasonal cheer in a setting designed for all ages. There’s also front-porch caroling at the Ticket Office if you arrive early (about 15 minutes before opening). These live performances add atmosphere and make the visit more than just lights and rides.
5. Cozy fireside treats, hot chocolate and holiday snacks
A key part of the experience: warm fire-pits, hot chocolate, homemade fudge and roastable s’mores. These features give families a place to pause, relax and soak in the festive mood before or after rides and activities.
Why your family should go this year
Tweetsie Christmas delivers more than just lights and rides. It blends historic charm (steam-train, Wild West town) with holiday magic, tailored for families. Visiting in Blowing Rock means you’re not just at a theme park but in a destination with mountain scenery + a full evening of activities. If you want one holiday outing that offers something for toddlers, tweens, and grandparents, this event hits that mark.
Create cherished memories with your loved ones this holiday season.
Tweetsie Tip
Dates: Every Friday, Saturday and Sunday evening from November 28th - December 30th, plus additional nights December 22, 23, 29 &30. Closed Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year's Eve.
Tickets: $65 for Adults (age 13+), $45 for Children (ages 3-12), free for children age 2 and under. Golden Rail Season Pass Holders save $20 on one ticket to Tweetsie Christmas. More info>
Location: Tweetsie Railroad, 300 Tweetsie Railroad Lane, Blowing Rock, N.C.
Availability: Tickets must be reserved in advance due to limited nightly availability. You choose your train time at the time of purchase.