With More Than 12 Different Attractions, This Winter Festival In North Carolina Is A Must-Visit

Don't miss this exciting winter festival with countless attractions in North Carolina. Jacksonville Winterfest takes place on Dec. 1-3, 2023, downtown at Riverwalk Park with snowy fun for all ages. The three-day festivities include live entertainment from the Lejeune Dance Company, pony rides, a river parade, ice skating, sledding, crafts at Santa's workshop, an artisan market, and more — all for free. Enjoy some of your favorite Christmas treats at the candy shop and delicious food from the best food trucks around. And don't worry about parking because free shuttles will transport you from the Commons park-and-ride lot to the Riverwalk Park. Here are some reasons you should attend this unforgettable winter festival in North Carolina.

The festivities kick off on Friday, Dec. 1, when folks can shop for holiday treasures at the Winterfest Artisan Market from 5:00-8:00 p.m. at Jacksonville Commons.

Here you'll find gift ideas for yourself or some friends. Winterfest also ends on Sunday with the market from noon to 5:00 p.m.

Saturday brings a full day of free thrills from 1:00 to 6:00 p.m. at Riverwalk Crossing Park.

Wintry activities include ice skating and sledding down these giant hills.

Are you brave enough?

Enjoy a hayride around the town to see some fancy decorations.

And test your strength on the rock-climbing wall.

Circle around and listen to the elegant Mrs. Claus read some stories.

For some warmth, we love the petting zoo which allows time to feel and spread some love with sweet and furry friends.

After 6:00 p.m., visit the New River waterfront for the annual Flotilla of Boats decorated with holiday lights!

You may see some familiar faces.

And once he disembarks from his ship, tell Santa what you want for Christmas.

Don't let this Christmas season go by without witnessing all of the sights and sounds of the holiday at the park.

And be sure to drive around the neighborhoods to see the homes lit up with holiday cheer.

For more details about this fun winter festival with countless attractions in North Carolina, visit the Jacksonville website. Have you visited Jacksonville Winterfest? If so, please share your experience in the comments below.

While you're there, stay for a few days and reserve a room on Hilton.com. And from skiing and snow tubing to exploring a magical castle, discover more ways to have winter fun in North Carolina.