The perfect way to cool off on a hot day. | Photo by City of Winston-Salem Recreation and Parks via @ws_recreationparks
We’re not kiddin’ around. From major attractions like the Kaleideum to hidden gems like the Washington Park playground, there’s something in the Twin City for children of all ages. You’ll have no trouble entertaining the youngsters this holiday season with our list of 29 kid-friendly activities.
🌳 Great outdoors
Gateway Nature Preserve, 1490 S. Broad St. | 🎟️ Family memberships available Discover native tree species along the forest discovery trail or use gear from the ecoEXPLORE program to take in nature around you at this environmental center dedicated to education + preservation.
🎳 Indoor adventures
ROAR, 633 N. Liberty St. This complex downtown includes boutique bowling, golf simulators, an arcade, and The Bunkr gaming center. Kids will remember exploring multiple floors of games and entertainment.
🎢 Thrill-seeking fun
Kersey Valley, 1615 Kersey Valley Rd., Archdale Perfect for older kids, spend the day ziplining, axe throwing, or playing laser tag at this entertainment venue ~35 minutes from downtown Winston-Salem.
Christmas w/ Matt Sickles | 6:30-9:30 p.m. | The Remedy | Cost of purchase | Watch the local guitarist perform a variety of jazz, rock, and pop music live while you sip on well-crafted cocktails or non-alcoholic drinks.
Friday, Dec. 20
Flannels and Flapjacks | 9:30-11:30 a.m. | Sprague Street Community Center | Free | Wear your favorite flannel pajamas or shirt and mingle with other families and residents.
Joy of Christmas Evening Tours | Times vary | Old Salem Museums & Gardens | $40+ | Immerse yourself in the spirit of Christmas from the 1800s + take part in activities like ornament making, illuminations, and festive storytelling.
Saturday, Dec. 21
Carolers + Sweet Treats | 10-11 a.m. | Louie and Honey’s Kitchen | Cost of purchase | Listen to Carolers of Christmas Past perform holiday songs and indulge in sweet treats from the bakery.
Holiday Soap & Candle Making Workshop | 1-3 p.m. | Lizzie’s All Natural Products, LLC | $98 | Get crafty and create luxurious bars of soap and one soy wax candle for yourself or to gift.
Hot Chocolate Around The World Social Mixer | 4-6 p.m. | Vecino Center for Language and Culture | $8 | Connect with like-minded people while enjoying the rich taste of hot chocolate from across the globe.
Latin Dance Night: Holiday PJ Party | 9 p.m.-1 a.m. | Manolo’s Boutique Wines | $15 | Start with a bachata lesson and dance to the hottest Latin beats — wear your favorite pajamas for a chance to win a prize.
Wake Forest University scored its next football coach. Former Washington State University football coach Jake Dickert will now lead the Demon Deacons. He replaces Dave Clawson, who stepped down this week after 11 seasons with the program.
Real Estate
Home is where the heart is. Winston-Salem ranked No. 24 among the top cities to buy a house in the US. Niche ranked the Twin City for its diversity, family-friendly feel, outdoor recreation options, education, and lower cost of living. It’s no secret our heart is in Winston-Salem.
Announced
Joyner’s Bar is taking home $1,500 as the winner of the Downtown Window Wonderland. The speakeasy located in West End also earned the People’s Choice award. Mast General Store was selected as a runner up. Check out the full list of winners and honorable mentions.
Plan Ahead
Celebrate Kwanzaa Thursday, Dec. 26 through Wednesday, Jan. 1. The African American tradition celebrates African values through music, dance, and storytelling. See the daily schedule of events to attend.
Cause
Spread holiday cheer by giving to our Western NC neighbors through Truliant Foundation. The credit union has pledged to match up to $50,000 in hurricane relief to respond to critical needs for families in the area. The funds will help provide items like coats, blankets, gloves, and generators.
Tech
Transform your potential into prosperity with 100 innovative side hustle opportunities. HubSpot’s expertly curated database matches your unique skills with high-potential ventures, from creative enterprises to digital solutions. Get your free access to discover your next big win.*
Number
137 million. That’s how much capital investment went toward creating new jobs and supporting the local business community in Winston-Salem in 2024. See more highlights from Great Winston Salem’s year-in-review report.*
Job
Hiring? Our new community job board could help you find that perfect candidate. Bonus: Your first job posting is free! Give it a try.
The Buy
The Buy
Pet insurance. No longer worry about surprise vet bills when you get a plan that reimburses up to 90%. See Money’s list of top providers and get covered for as little as $15 per month.
City Editors Kellina and Cambridge enjoy doing activities in the Twin City like taking a gem tree workshop at the Generations Center. | Photo by Marlene
And just like that, we’re at the end of 2024. This year has been filled with incredible memories, from meeting some of you in person who have expressed how you love WStoday, to discovering a new passion for line dancing, to exploring new coffee shops + restaurants in Winston-Salem. I am thankful for the privilege City Editor Cambridge and I get highlight all the great things about our city.
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