Kickoff to Christmas
Holiday Festivities on the Albemarle Sound
Join us Saturday, December 6th for an evening of family-friendly holiday cheer in historic downtown Edenton! Celebrate the season with a wide variety of festive activities, treats, and entertainment for all ages!
Kickoff to Christmas Activities
Saturday, December 6, 2025
Food Trucks & Local Vendors – 4:00 PM
Come hungry! A variety of food trucks and vendors will begin serving at 4:00 PM. Grab your favorite seasonal bites and warm drinks as you stroll through the festivities.
Visit with the Grinch & Story Time at Cupola House Gardens – 4:00 PM
Bring your own blanket and head over to the Shepard-Pruden Memorial Library to catch a glimpse of the Grinch. Weather permitting, enjoy holiday story time in the beautiful Cupola House Gardens.
Gingerbread House Competition – 4:00 PM
Youth and adult participants from Chowan County have been hard at work crafting festive gingerbread houses—and you get to be the judge! Stop by 101 W Water Street to cast your vote for your favorite creation.
Hot Cocoa at the Waterfront Trolley – 4:00 PM
Warm up with a delicious cup of hot cocoa available for purchase at the trolley on the waterfront. Add your favorite toppings for a custom holiday treat!
Children’s Activities at the Barker House – 4:00 PM
Kids can enjoy a free bounce house and explore the beautifully decorated Barker House, adorned in full holiday splendor.
Ornament Workshop at the Chowan Arts Council – 4:00 PM
Get creative at the Chowan Arts Council’s ornament workshop! Stop by to design and take home your very own handmade ornament—free of charge.
Annual Chili Cookoff – 4:30 PM
Join the Edenton Fire Department for their beloved 3rd Annual Chili Cookoff in front of the Barker House. Sample entries and help crown this year’s winner by casting your vote!
Tree Lighting Ceremony & Santa’s Arrival – 5:30 PM
Gather on Main Street for the official Tree Lighting Ceremony, beginning at 5:30 PM. Santa Claus will make his grand entrance around 6:00 PM, with a meet-and-greet to follow immediately after the ceremony.
Christmas Flotilla at Colonial Park – 6:15 PM
Cap off the evening with the dazzling Christmas Flotilla at Colonial Park. Want to participate with your boat? We’d love to have you! Please contact Erienne Mizell for registration information.
For the most up-to-date details, visit our Facebook page.
