Wendell Wonderland
Visitors gather in downtown Wendell to watch the lighting of the town Christmas tree and welcome Santa Claus arriving aboard a fire truck. The evening features a craft market, food trucks, live performances, a cookie walk, and access to the Lake Myra Christmas Light Show. Guests can also enjoy festive trolley rides, a S'mores wagon, and Polar Express story time.
Fri, Dec 4, 2026 All ages Free to attend.
See more Christmas markets near Wendell
Plan Your Visit
Hours
The event takes place in the evening. Tree lighting is approximately 6 PM; Santa arrives just after the tree lighting around 6 PM. The trolley circulates from 5:30 PM to 9:00 PM.
Neighborhood
Downtown Wendell
Food & Drink
Food trucks are usually available, and the event features a S'mores wagon; the Social District is active, with marked cups required within its boundaries.
Parking
Park in any publicly available lot or on the street where parking is legal and streets are open. The trolley pickup and drop-off is at the Woman's Club parking lot by the Town Square.
Location
Tips & Advice
- Use a publicly available lot or legal street parking, since several downtown streets close for the event.
- If you plan to ride the trolley, board at the Woman’s Club parking lot beside Town Square.
- Bring a toy for the Toys for Tots drive and drop it off at the event or a listed Town facility.
- If using the social district, remain within its boundaries and use marked cups from participating businesses only.
- Dress for an outdoor evening and be prepared to attend in rain, as the event is held rain or shine.
Special Events & Promotions
- Santa arrives just after the town tree lighting.
- Craft market vendors can apply until the market is full.
Links & Contact
Run by Town of Wendell
Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their website.
Frequently Asked Questions
What activities are included in the evening?
The event features the town tree lighting, Santa’s arrival, a craft market, food trucks, live performances, a cookie walk, a S’mores Wagon, trolley rides and access to the Lake Myra Christmas Light Show.
Is the event suitable for families?
The program includes Santa and Mrs. Claus, a cookie walk, trolley rides and Polar Express story time; story time details are still to be determined.
Where can I park, and where does the trolley pick up?
Use any publicly available lot or legal street parking where streets remain open. The trolley picks up and drops off at the Woman’s Club parking lot by Town Square.
Can I bring a toy for the Toys for Tots drive?
Toys can be dropped off at the event or at Town Hall, the Community Center, the Police Department or Public Works.
Can I attend if it rains, and what are the social district rules?
The event is rain or shine. In the social district, stay within its boundaries and use marked cups from participating businesses only.
Browse Christmas in Garner
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.