Preview night to benefit Jeff Gordon Children’s Foundation for pediatric cancer research

The 52nd annual Southern Christmas Show, the largest holiday show in North America, will return to Charlotte from Thursday, Nov. 14, through Sunday, Nov. 24, with more than 450 vendors showcasing the latest gifts, treats, holiday décor, gourmet goodies and much more.

Hosted by Marketplace Events, the show will be held at The Park Expo and Conference Center, where guests will be able to stroll through dazzling designer rooms by Ballard Designs, hear the pleasant sound of old-fashioned carols from the LeafFilter Entertainment Stage and share their holiday wishes with Santa Claus. An unparalleled holiday shopping experience, the show will offer attendees a wealth of gift options and a variety of holiday ornaments, wreaths, stockings and trimmings.

With the theme of “A Woodland Christmas,” this year’s show will feature a life-sized log cabin built into the main entrance and forest-inspired decorations that will make attendees feel as though they’re strolling through wintry woods while they shop. Show guests will pass through Olde Towne, where the magic of the season comes alive with shops brimming with gifts, dolls, ornaments, and decorations. Christmas Tree Lane will deck the halls with trees from the North Carolina mountains and ideas that range from traditional to fanciful. The show will also provide many ways to make mantels, doors, and wreaths shine during this holiday season. Holiday Décor Competitions are sponsored by Renewal by Andersen, and guests are encouraged to visit their table Nov. 15 & 16 to cast their vote for the best decorated Christmas tree, wreath, mantle, and door.

Attendees can also take in the model train exhibits at the show or check out the talented work of skilled crafters and artisans from around the country showcasing one-of-a-kind watercolors, sculptures, and pottery. And at the Kids’ Craft Corner, sponsored by Carolina Home Remodeling, children can make an ornament, card or stocking and take it home for the holidays. A variety of food items including strudel, fruitcake, roasted nuts, hot pretzels and much more will also be available at the show.

Guests can get a sneak peek at the show during a special preview night on Wednesday, Nov. 13, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., with a portion of each ticket sale being donated to charity partner Jeff Gordon Children’s Foundation to benefit pediatric cancer research. Attendees will enjoy free parking, special entertainment, and hors d’oeuvres. Tickets cost $24, and the first 250 guests will receive a gift bag valued at more than $100.

For those who want to beat the crowds and shop before the general public, the Southern Christmas Show will host an Early Bird VIP morning from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. on Saturday, Nov. 16. Tickets for this unique opportunity cost $20, and the first 250 VIP shoppers will also receive a gift bag valued at more than $100. During the Early Bird VIP morning, no wagons, strollers or carts will be allowed on the show floor.

The Southern Christmas Show will run from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. from Sunday through Wednesday and from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Thursday through Saturday. On-site parking is $8, and valet parking can be purchased at the normal entrances to the main parking lot for $20. Tickets purchased at the door cost $15 for adults and $4 for children ages 6 to 12. Tickets for children five and younger are free with a paying adult. Adult tickets purchased online at the show’s website cost $13.

Guests may also buy tickets at participating Harris Teeter stores for $12.50 with a VIC card from Oct. 16 through Nov. 24. On Wednesday, Nov. 20, all active military and veterans as well as first responders will receive free admission with valid identification in honor of Veterans Day.

Show sponsors include Ballard Designs, Big Bad Props, Carolina Home Remodeling, The Charlotte Observer, Classroom Central, Harris Teeter, Infinity Massage Chairs, Jeff Gordon Children’s Foundation, LeafFilter, Renewal by Andersen and Universal Windows Direct. For more information, visit www.southernchristmasshow.com.