Can you believe we are only a week out from Christmas? Our house is in full December mode. There are half-wrapped gifts on the counter, a stack of holiday cards waiting to be mailed, and a running list of ingredients I keep forgetting to grab. It is a little wild and a little wonderful, and honestly, I never want it to end.
And in the middle of the bustle, there is one tradition I wait for all year.
For six years, David and I have had the same December date. Lattes from the Dilworth Starbucks, a quick drive to Freedom Park, and then a slow stroll up Queens Road to admire the holiday lights and talk about life. We have walked through home offers, wedding plans, new jobs, kitchen renovations, and hopeful baby dreams. Last year we got to bring Jamie with us for the very first time.
This year? Let’s just say toddler Jamie was not feeling the sentimental vibes. He refused the stroller, refused to walk, and insisted on being carried like royalty. So, we cut the loop short and pivoted to explore a hidden gem playground tucked in the back of Freedom Park instead (review below!). Even with the detour, it was exactly the grounding moment we needed. As you tackle your own holiday checklist this week, I hope you find space for your own small traditions...even if they go a little off-script. Remember, if the kids are alive and there’s a vaguely festive candle burning, you are absolutely crushing it.
Know another Charlotte parent who needs easy ideas this week?
Your roundup of family-friendly events and activities happening this week.
We’ve reached the grand finale of holiday season planning, that magical stretch where you’re juggling cookie exchanges, last minute shopping, and the kids asking if Christmas is tomorrow for the tenth time.
Luckily, Charlotte is packed with festive fun that makes it easy to knock out your list while keeping the holiday spirit high. Think twinkly markets, cheerful parades, and Santa popping up just about everywhere. It’s the perfect weekend to lean in and make a few more memories before the big day.
✨ A few standouts:
Mingle with Kringle at Discovery Place Kids, a sweet chance for little ones to meet Santa and explore the museum in a festive setting.
Crafty Kids Market at Free Range Brewing, where kid makers shine and you can wrap up gifting in the most heartwarming way.
The Lake Norman Lighted Boat Parade, a sparkling shoreline tradition that is pure December magic.
Your featured park, playground, or indoor play spot.
Everyone knows Freedom Park, but did you know about the adorable playground tucked away in the back? Our friend (hi, Nat!) told us about it a few months ago and when a toddler meltdown redirected our usual Christmas lights route, it was the perfect excuse to visit. Two play structures, water tables, Cozy Coupes, and tons of toys beyond the standard swings and slides. If you're tired of crowded playgrounds, you need to know about this spot.
From pre-baby date nights to postpartum tears over rosé (yes, really), Café Monte has been there for all of it. Sure, everyone knows about their brunch, but there's so much more to this South Park gem, including the best French fries that have gotten us through some very emotional moments. Plus, with specials running all week (hello, half-price wine on Tuesdays and endless mussels on Wednesdays!), there's always a reason to stop by.
A quick tip, insight, or reflection from a local expert or parent.
The Toy Rotation Mistake I Made (So You Don't Have To)
Here's what nobody tells you about toy rotation: having everything organized in bins doesn't matter if your toddler can't see what's inside.
We spent months with a "perfect" bin system that Jamie completely ignored. Then I changed ONE thing - visibility - and everything clicked.
I'm sharing the good, the bad, and the honest truth about what's actually working in our small space, plus our weekly rotation schedule that takes 5-10 minutes.
A sneak peek at upcoming events and seasonal fun around Charlotte.
If your New Year’s Eve plans used to involve champagne toasts at midnight and now involve praying everyone stays asleep past 6:00 a.m., I have found your party. Discovery Place Kids – Huntersville is hosting their annual Noon Year’s Eve Celebration on December 31, and it is honestly the genius hack parents deserve. Instead of wrecking bedtime schedules to watch a ball drop, you can bring your little party animals to ring in 2026 early with special activities, a massive countdown, and an epic balloon drop.
There are two sessions to choose from: a morning one from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. or an afternoon one from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. so you can celebrate and still get everyone home for dinner and a decent bedtime. It’s all the confetti and excitement without the sleep deprivation hangover the next day. Tickets are limited and tend to go fast, so if you want to be the hero who made New Year’s magical before lunchtime, go reserve your spot now.
Wishing you a holiday week with more laughter than laundry and at least one nap that nobody interrupts. I'm stepping away from the computer next week to soak up family time, so the next Sprout (our 1️⃣0️⃣th edition!!!) will be popping into your inbox on Friday, January 2nd. I’m celebrating with a giveaway 🎉, so follow us on Instagram to get in on the fun.
Catch you in the new year with fresh coffee and slightly lower expectations.
💚 Emily Founder, The Charlotte Sprout
P.S. If you try any of these spots, tag us on Instagram @charlottesprout! I love seeing your family adventures (and secretly judge how much better your kids behave in public than mine does).
Help The Sprout grow. If one idea made your week easier, please forward this email or tag @thecharlottesprout so more Charlotte parents can find us. 🌱
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