Looking for a way to escape the hustle and bustle of the holidays and rediscover the joy of the season? Old Salem at Christmas is the perfect place to slow down and soak in the spirit of the holidays. Each year, Old Salem Museums and Gardens transforms into a festive wonderland filled with lights, music, food, and historic charm. This year’s Christmas at Old Salem celebrations have already begun and will run through December 31.

From hands-on crafts to live music and candlelight traditions, the holidays at Old Salem invite visitors to experience the sights, sounds, and tastes of a Moravian Christmas like no other. It’s a time to make memories, learn a little history, and reconnect with the simple joys of the season.

The Holiday Season in Old Salem

There’s something magical for everyone during Christmas at Old Salem. Throughout the day, guests can explore historic demonstrations, crafts, and performances that bring 18th- and 19th-century holiday traditions to life.

The Joy of Christmas Evening Tour

The Joy of Christmas Evening Tours are a special holiday treat. Uncover the rich history of Old Salem’s Miksch House, the Vogler House, and the Single Brothers’ Workshop, where you will be immersed in the spirit of a historical Christmas celebration. Through a blend of authentic storytelling and hands-on activities, learn how the traditions of Christmas in Old Salem have changed over time, all while being transported back in time to the heartwarming holiday season of yesteryear.

DATES & TIMES: These tours happen every Friday and Saturday beginning November 28th and ending on December 20th. Tours last about 60 minutes, with the first setting off at 6:30 pm. Tours begin every 15 minutes from The Boys School on the Old Salem grounds. Tickets are limited and can be purchased here.

2025 Holiday Salem Saturdays

This Holiday Season, Salem Saturdays will be held on November 29th, December 6th, December 13th, and December 20th from 10 AM to 4 PM. On these days, special activities and attractions ring in the holiday season with heightened cheer. Each Saturday has something new to offer. Here is what is on the docket for each Saturday.

Saturday, November 29: Hands-On Christmas
Kick off the season with a Members Shopping Day; Members enjoy a 20% discount at Winkler Bakery, the gift shop, and Shops at Old Salem Visitor Center – perfect for adding historic charm to your holiday gift giving. Enjoy live music in our historic buildings, children’s hands-on holiday activities and, of course, jolly old St. Nick who will be visiting Old Salem at Butner’s Hat Shop.

Saturday, December 6: The Moravian Market
Celebrate with live Moravian music, historic dyeing demonstrations and tours through historic sites. The Wachovia Historical Society’s Moravian Market will be held on the town square, and Candle Tea will be in full swing. Don’t miss Old Salem for a full day of festive fun. Candle Tea details can be found here.

Saturday, December 13: Christmas Fest
Join Christmas Fest with the Moravian Music Foundation, where holiday music fills the air and activities span both sides of the square. Enjoy live music in the buildings, historic textile dyeing demonstrations and festive cheer as you explore Old Salem and the Moravian Music Foundation grounds. Candle Tea is also available for an extra holiday experience.

Saturday, December 20: St. Nick Comes to Salem
Meet St. Nick in the historic Butner Hat Shop and join a joyful children’s caroling parade. Hands-on holiday activities for children will be scattered throughout the district all day, making this a perfect day for families.

Insider’s Tip: With the purchase of an Old Salem Membership, you’ll be able to attend all four Salem Saturdays for the price of one!!

Candle Tea

While Candle Tea does take place at the Single Brothers’ House in the district, Old Salem Museums & Gardens does not hold Candle Tea events.

This event is organized by the Home Moravian Church and is extremely popular! For a list of specific event dates, times, and to purchase tickets, please visit their Candle Tea page on the Home Moravian Church website.

Unique Holiday Shopping in a Historic Setting

No trip to Old Salem at Christmas is complete without exploring its charming shops and holiday market. Visitors will find an array of one-of-a-kind gifts, from handcrafted ornaments and locally made foods to home décor, books, and artisan crafts. It’s the perfect place to find meaningful items for friends and family—or to treat yourself to a little holiday treasure.

Shopping in Old Salem is an experience in itself. Each store is filled with historic charm, offering items that reflect the region’s craftsmanship and creativity. Whether you’re picking up stocking stuffers or something special for that hard-to-shop-for person on your list, you’ll discover gifts that tell a story and support local artisans.

Stop by Winkler Bakery (no ticket required), Muddy Creek Cafe, or the newly opened Lot 63 for a fresh take on the traditional Moravian baked goods. Named after the building’s historic designated plot number, Lot 63 serves coffee, tea, beer, wine, savory food to be enjoyed any time of the day, and traditional Moravian baked goods by Wilkerson Moravian Bakery.

General info for visiting Old Salem during the holidays

Visiting Old Salem at Christmas is more than just an outing—it’s an experience that connects people to history, tradition, and community. Families can explore the decorated streets, meet costumed interpreters, and learn how Moravians celebrated the holidays centuries ago. As always, visiting the grounds is completely free, but a ticket is required to enter the buildings. You can see a list of the buildings that are open and those that are limited to visitors with a ticket.

HOLIDAY PROGRAMMING DATES AND TIMES: Nov 12–Dec 31
HOURS: Tues–Fri, 9 am-4 pm and Sat, 10 am- 4 pm
TICKETS: Ticket prices are $40 for adults and $20 for students.
CLOSED: Old Salem will be closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day

Plan Your Visit

If you’re planning to experience Christmas at Old Salem, be sure to check Old Salem Museums and Gardens’ website for the latest schedule, ticket information, and parking details. Arrive early to make the most of your day, and don’t forget to dress warmly—it’s the perfect time to enjoy crisp winter air, hot cider, and glowing candlelight.

Whether it’s your first visit or a family tradition, Old Salem holiday events promise an unforgettable day filled with laughter, learning, and holiday spirit. Gather your loved ones, leave the to-do list behind, and spend a day in one of North Carolina’s most picturesque historic settings.

Celebrate the season where history and holiday magic meet—at Old Salem, where Christmas truly comes alive.

FAQs About Christmas at Old Salem

1. When is Christmas at Old Salem celebrated?
Christmas at Old Salem runs from November 12 through December 31 each year, with special events held on select weekends.

2. Do you need tickets to visit Old Salem during the holidays?
Admission to the historic grounds is free, but tickets are required to enter buildings and participate in guided tours.

3. What are the Old Salem holiday hours?
Old Salem is open Tuesday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day.

4. What is included in the Joy of Christmas Evening Tour?
The Joy of Christmas Evening Tour offers a 60-minute guided experience through historic homes with storytelling, music, and hands-on holiday traditions.

5. What are Salem Saturdays, and when do they take place?
Salem Saturdays are themed holiday events held on November 29, December 6, 13, and 20, featuring music, crafts, and family-friendly activities.

6. Is the Candle Tea part of Old Salem Museums & Gardens?
Candle Tea is hosted by Home Moravian Church within the district and requires separate tickets available through the church’s website.

7. Where can visitors shop or eat during the holidays at Old Salem?
Guests can enjoy holiday shopping at Winkler Bakery, the Visitor Center shops, and Lot 63, which offers Moravian baked goods, coffee, and light fare.