Statesville, NC – The City of Statesville and the Downtown Statesville Development Corporation are teaming up to kick off the holiday season with two beloved community events in the heart of downtown. Residents and visitors are invited to enjoy the annual Christmas Tree Lighting on Thursday, December 4, 2025, followed by the Downtown Shop & Stroll on Friday, December 5, 2025.
The festivities begin Thursday evening, December 4, with the Downtown Christmas Tree Lighting from 6 to 7 p.m. in front of the Old County Courthouse at 300 South Center Street. The celebration opens with holiday music performed by students from American Renaissance School starting at 6 p.m. At 6:45 p.m., Santa Claus – arriving in style courtesy of AP Vintage Motors – will join Mayor Doug Hendrix to flip the switch and illuminate the downtown Christmas tree.
From 6 to 8 p.m., free horse-drawn carriage rides will be available, with boarding at First ARP Church on East Broad Street. Tickets for the carriage rides go on sale November 25 and can be reserved at www.downtownstatesville.com.
The celebration continues Friday, December 5, with the Downtown Shop & Stroll from 6 to 8 p.m. Families can visit Santa Central inside City Hall for photos with Santa and his elves, children’s crafts, letters to Santa, hot cocoa, and popcorn, plus guided tours of the historic building.
The Holly Jolly Trolley will offer free rides every 20 minutes from the depot near the Christmas tree, making stops at several holiday attractions throughout downtown. Highlights include the Historic Sharpe House Open House from 6 to 8:30 p.m., a live Nativity presented by First ARP Church at 5:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m., Little Blue Choo train rides sponsored by Ripple Fiber at West Broad and Meeting streets, and a free S’mores Station near West Broad and Kelly streets hosted with help from the Statesville Fire Department.
Additional festive touches will include Victorian carolers strolling the streets, entertainment provided by Center Stage Alliance, and holiday selfie stations placed throughout the downtown area.
Both evenings offer the perfect opportunity to enjoy downtown’s holiday decorations, dine at local restaurants, and shop at independently owned businesses.
Organizers say the events are a cherished tradition that bring the community together to celebrate the joy of the season.
For the latest details and updates, visit www.statesvillenc.net or www.downtownstatesville.com.
