Fuquay-Varina Town Sleigh Ride & Holiday Tree Lighting

About this adventure

The Town of Fuquay-Varina hosts one of the Triangle's most unique holiday traditions: the annual Fuquay-Varina Town Sleigh Ride and Tree Lighting Celebration. Families can hop aboard genuine tractor-pulled open-air sleighs with wooden bench seating for a nostalgic ride down historic Vance Street and through the festive downtown district. At Mineral Spring Park and Fuquay town square, the town lights its grand holiday tree set against glowing historic displays. Children can meet Santa and Mrs. Claus in his workshop, make reindeer food at crafting booths, warm up by outdoor fire pits with s'mores, and listen to live choral music and school brass ensembles throughout the evening. Family Experience & Accessibility: • Stroller Accessibility: The downtown streets and paved paths around Mineral Spring Park are stroller-friendly; volunteers provide designated stroller parking areas near the sleigh ride queue and Santa tent. • Nursing & Rest Spots: Public restrooms with baby changing stations are located at the Fuquay-Varina Arts Center and downtown community buildings; shaded park gazebos provide quiet seating. • Age Suitability: Perfect for toddlers, preschoolers, school-age children, and parents. The sleigh rides provide an exciting, tactile adventure that kids will talk about for weeks. • Sensory Tips: Sleigh tractor engines create a gentle mechanical hum, and the downtown atmosphere is cozy and cheerful. Arriving right at 6:00 PM helps avoid longer lines for Santa and the sleigh rides.