If you are looking for something a bit unique when it comes to things to do at Christmas in North Carolina, consider this historic mansion. Walk into a Victorian time capsule with a visit to the most eclectic and unusual house in all of North Carolina: Körner’s Folly. All year long, this circa 1880 home is open for self-guided tours on select days of the week, and visitors are enthralled by the architectural elements and the furnishings, all of which are original to the home. But during the holidays, the home is adorned from floor to ceiling with period holiday decorations for its annual Victorian Christmas event, and it is positively charming.

Come Christmastime, decorations cover nearly every surface of Körner’s Folly, from the floor to the ceiling. Garland, figurines, wreaths, delicate table coverings, plateware, glassware, and 22 beautiful trees...the Victorian Christmas decorations are enough to almost take your breath away!
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For its annual Victorian Christmas event, Körner’s Folly is filled with holiday cheer as every inch of this 6,000-square-foot Victorian home is covered in stunning holiday decor.
Facebook/Körner’s Folly‎
A little history behind the home: it was built by the artist behind the Bull Durham tobacco barns that once lined the landscapes all over America. Upon retiring from that venture, Jules Körner moved to Kernersville and built this magnificent home.
Facebook/Körner’s Folly‎
It was meant to showcase his new venture as an interior designer so the home features many architectural and design elements intended to be a showroom, really. And that very pointed roof you see here? Underneath that facade is America's first-ever private theater, complete with a stage that still hosts performances.
Now, back to the holiday decor. From the moment you walk through the door at Christmastime, you're transported into the past to a world at the turn of the 20th century.
Facebook/Körner’s Folly‎

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The high ceilings with handcrafted plaster adornments create a lovely backdrop for all of the Victorian Christmas decorations found in every single room of the home.
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Even the bedrooms are included on the special holiday tours.
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A visit to Körner’s Folly any time of the year is a wonderful and inspiring journey through this old home but during a North Carolina Christmas season, it's positively delightful.
Facebook/Körner’s Folly‎
This attraction's annual Victorian Christmas event generally takes place in late November through the beginning of January but exact dates vary each year.
Facebook/Körner’s Folly‎


Take a look at this video of the mansion by @Localish:

Have you ever visited Körner’s Folly for Christmas in North Carolina? If so, did you visit during the holiday season? We’d love to hear what you think, so share your experiences with us in the comments below!

Holiday tours at Körner’s Folly last approximately one hour, and amateur photography is allowed (thank goodness!). You can read more about Körner’s Folly’s Victorian Christmas, including event dates, admission rates, special events, and more, at the Körner’s Folly website.

For more magical holiday events to enjoy this season, venture through one of these four drive-through Christmas lights displays in North Carolina!  And if you’re looking for gifts for the special people in your life this holiday season, be sure to check out the OnlyInYourState Holiday Gift Guide.

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Christmas in North Carolina

Sarah | November 06, 2021

What are some fun things to do during the holidays in North Carolina?

Körner’s Folly is certainly one of the best holiday activities in North Carolina, and it's in good company!  Here are a few other things to do during the holidays in NC:

  • Attend a seasonal festival
  • See twinkling light displays all around the state.
  • Take a holiday train ride.
  • Check out the decked-to-the-nines Christmas towns around North Carolina
  • One of our favorite things to do during this season is the holiday market known as Charlotte Christmas Village. Based on European traditions that are centuries old, this magical Christmas village in North Carolina offers the perfect night out. Picture mugs of hot cocoa, handcrafted gifts, live music, and so much more. It's a fun way to get in the holiday season here in the Tar Heel State!

 

Are there any Christmas train rides in North Carolina?

Absolutely! For over 40 years, the Museum of Life and Science in Durham, North Carolina, has hosted a Santa Train, which is the most magical holiday experience around. Here's what to expect:

  • Both kids and adults can get in on the fun during this themed train ride filled with holiday magic.
  • From face painting to holiday crafts, and even a visit from Santa himself, climb aboard this wonderful holiday train in North Carolina!
  • Make sure you reserve your tickets for the Santa Train in North Carolina ASAP -- this fan-favorite fills up fast!

 

What are the best holiday light displays in North Carolina?

Whether you're taking a holiday drive-thru light show tour or wandering through the Biltmore Estate in Asheville, North Carolina sure puts on a dazzling holiday light show every year. All it takes is knowing the best Christmas light displays in the state and venturing out. Just pack your thermos of hot cocoa and gather the family for an epic light experience in the Tar Heel State.
If you're looking to fully immerse yourself in the holiday spirit, you'll want to check out our picks for the best twinkling lights in North Carolina. Which will you visit first?

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