Looking for something to do in downtown Lincolnton? Hanging out with friends? Maybe something the whole family can enjoy? Downtown Lincolnton offers a wide range of events for everyone to enjoy.
The City of Lincolnton has many events annually and different organizations host events in the Downtown Community. Here are some other area calendars you should check out…
City of Lincolnton Calendar of Events
Lincoln Cultural Center Calendar of Events
James Warren Citizens Center
Art Crawl
The name speaks for itself! You can crawl (some prefer to walk) through downtown businesses to admire and purchase all types of art from our talented local artists. Some think the “crawl” came from sipping too much wine but we never shall tell you will have to come find out for yourself! Typically held in March, this event will help you shake off the winter blues and jump into spring!
Wine Fest
Spring has sprung and you are ready to get out and about! Check out our Wine Fest held in April on our Main Street of town. Artists, potters and of course our local wineries will line the street for your enjoyment. You can taste, buy and sip your way down the street until you find your favorite…
For more information, visit the Lincolnton Food & Wine Fest website.
Alive After Five
If you like beach music, shagging or just a chill evening around the court square you will want to mark your calendars for the last Thursday of every month May – September. DJ Johnny B will be stirring up the fun before the band kicks off and making sure you enjoy your evening dancing on Main Street. Food Vendors and the beer wagon will be there to make sure you don’t go hungry or thirsty. Bring your sassy car (old, new & motorcycles too!) to show off and get premium parking. Don’t forget your lawn chairs!
For more information, visit the Alive After Five Facebook page.
July 4th Parade & Festivities
To kick-off our country’s Independence Day Celebration businesses on Main Street decorate their facades in the traditional red, white & blue to set the scene for the floats, cars and patriotic Americans that parade their colors for the 4th of July Parade. After the parade everyone heads over to Lincolnton High School football stadium to watch the annual fireworks show! Happy Birthday America!
Cruisin’ for A Cause & Other Car Events
Summer is winding down and you want to show off those cars one more time before they hibernate for winter! Well how about you not only park it to show off but you can also cruise the court square like everyone did back in the good old days before cruising became illegal! For one night only cruising is legal for a minimal fee of $5 which is a tax deductible donation split by 4 local charities (Amys’ House-Domestic Violence Women’s Shelter, Relay for Life, Child Abuse Coalition & Hessed House- Homeless Shelter). Held in August you won’t want to miss this night full of fun, muscle cars and cruising!
May & November also host car shows downtown. Check our calendar for more details.
Apple Festival
The largest and longest running event downtown shows off our love for apples and provides a great fund-raising opportunity to our local non-profits. While the festival is an annual reunion for some most will say they come for the food! Eat your way through the streets, do a little shopping and chatting with all your friends you see. This is fun for the whole family!
This event is held the 3rd Saturday in October.
For more information, visit the Lincoln County Apple Festival website.
Antique and Vintage Market Day
If you enjoy shopping for antiques or vintage items, then you want to come out to the Lincolnton Antique and Vintage Market Day in downtown Lincolnton on East Main Street. This event is held the 2nd Saturday in October and we have some great vendors. We will also have some up-cycled and recycled items. Make sure you visit our Facebook page for more details.
If you are interested in becoming a vendor, please click here for an application:
Holiday Events
Downtown transforms into a winter wonderland during the Christmas season, brimming with festive activities that truly embody the joy and magic of the holidays! The beautifully illuminated streets, adorned with twinkling lamp posts and a grand Christmas tree, create a picturesque setting for all who visit. The delightful clip-clop of horse-drawn carriages on Main Street adds an enchanting touch, making it a memorable experience for families and friends.
Hop on a carriage at Treasures on Main, located at 119 East Main Street, and enjoy a magical ride through the festive atmosphere. Be sure to stop by and visit Santa Claus in his charming spot at First Federal Splash Park. He’ll be excited to hear the holiday wishes of little ones, all while the park sparkles with stunning light displays and inviting photo spots perfect for capturing special moments. Children can also write their letters to Santa, ensuring he knows exactly what they’re hoping for this Christmas!
This year, we’re thrilled to introduce Santa’s Express Train, where visitors can take a delightful ride along the rail trail and roast marshmallows for a perfect winter evening. All aboard for fun and festive memories!
The holiday festivities kick off with a cheerful Christmas parade on the Sunday after Thanksgiving, followed by the magical tree-lighting ceremony and joyful caroling, setting the tone for the season.
Don’t forget to mark your calendars: Santa’s Candyland Village and the enchanting carriage rides are open every weekend from Thanksgiving until Christmas, from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM weather permitting. Join us in celebrating the spirit of the season and create treasured memories with loved ones!
If you are interested in becoming a vendor, please click here for an application:
Apple Drop in Downtown Lincolnton
Join us for the Lincolnton Apple Drop, a celebration that honors the rich traditions of our NC backcountry settlers! On New Year’s Eve, come to East Main Street at Poplar Street, starting at 5 PM, for an evening filled with family-friendly activities and festive spirit.
The festivities will kick off at 6:30 PM with the Blessing of the City and the esteemed Cherryville Traditional Shooters. Then, get ready for the Apple Drop at 7 PM, which coincides with midnight GMT!
This exciting event is completely free to attend, but we kindly encourage donations to support local charities. As a token of our gratitude, we have plenty of New Year’s Eve swag to share with our generous contributors!
Capture cherished family moments at our fun photo ops, enjoy lively music and games on Main Street, and indulge in delicious food, treats, and drinks from our onsite vendors.
Come celebrate the heritage of Lincolnton and Lincoln County with us as we ring in the new year together! We can't wait to see you there!
FOOD VENDORS: If you would like to apply to be a food vendor at the event, please click here.