Holiday Weekend in Concord NC: Tree Lighting, Pop Up Markets, Live Music and the Christmas Parade

Holiday Weekend Guide for Concord NC: November 21 and 22

Concord is ready to kick off the holiday season with two full days of local events, Christmas traditions, and festive activities across Downtown Concord and Cabarrus County. If you have been waiting for the perfect weekend to enjoy tree lights, live music, family activities, and local shopping, this is it.

Here is your complete guide to everything happening on November 21 and 22.

Concord Tree Lighting Ceremony

Friday, November 21, 6:00 to 8:30 PM
Union Street, Downtown Concord

The official Concord Tree Lighting Ceremony returns with live music, food trucks, a kid zone, and fireworks. Union Street will be filled with local families, holiday decor, and all the Christmas energy you need to kick off the season.

If you plan to head downtown early, grab dinner from the food trucks and explore the shops before the big countdown.

Holiday Pop Up Market

Friday, November 21, 5:00 to 8:00 PM
The Lenz Studio, Downtown Concord

Before the tree lights turn on, stop by The Lenz Studio for a Holiday Pop Up Market. Local retail vendors, handmade goods, festive treats, and early holiday shopping make this a perfect first stop. This is an easy way to support small businesses while finding unique gifts.

Tree Lighting Parties Around Downtown Concord

Several Downtown Concord favorites are joining in the fun with their own mini celebrations.

Mac Tabby Cat Cafe

Friday, November 21, 6:00 to 9:00 PM

The cats will be ready for visitors, and this one is for the party animals. Stop in to warm up, grab a drink, and enjoy a cozy indoor view of the festive energy downtown.

Pump Social

Friday, November 21, 5:00 to 9:00 PM

Pump Social is hosting its own tree lighting party complete with live music, fire pits, kids crafts, and smores kits. This is a great spot for families or for anyone wanting to enjoy a relaxed, social holiday night.

Speedway Christmas

Begins November 21
Charlotte Motor Speedway

One of Cabarrus County’s signature holiday attractions returns on November 21. Speedway Christmas features millions of lights, synchronized displays, holiday movies, and seasonal treats. If you want to keep the fun going after the tree lighting, this is a perfect next stop.

97th Annual Concord Christmas Parade

Saturday, November 22, 2:30 PM
Union Street, Downtown Concord

The 97th Annual Concord Christmas Parade is one of the longest running holiday traditions in North Carolina. The parade will fill Union Street with marching bands, floats, local organizations, and plenty of Christmas cheer. Bring your chairs, grab a hot drink from a nearby coffee shop, and enjoy a classic Concord holiday moment.

Concord is packed with festive events this weekend, and whether you love tree lighting ceremonies, small business shopping, family activities, or long standing holiday traditions, there is something for everyone.

If you see me out and about capturing content, come say hi. I hope you all enjoy the start of the holiday season right here in Concord NC.