It’s the most wonderful time of the year in Greenville-Pitt County! Soon you’ll see lights twinkling, hear carols floating through the air, and feel the festive cheer in every community across our county. From cozy markets and merry parades to tree lightings, sweet treats, and local shopping, there’s holiday magic waiting around every corner. Whether you’re a lifelong local or visiting for the season, we’ve wrapped up all the best ways to celebrate in Pitt County!
Holiday Markets
Kick off your holiday shopping by supporting local makers, artists, and businesses! Starting in early November, you’ll find markets and pop-ups throughout Pitt County offering everything from handmade ornaments and candles to sweet treats and cozy crafts.
The Jolly Emeral Market on Dickinson Avenue– Greenville (November 20th)
Check out the Pickle Down Greenville Pickleball courts transform into a space where you can shop local vendors while also enjoying the Downtown Social District!
Merry Mixer & Market – Greenville (December 12th & 13th )
A two-day holiday celebration at the Greenville Musem of Art offering free admission for the entire community! Highlights include live seasonal performances, a holiday artist and vendor market, a festive photo opportunity with Santa, creative crafts and art activities, and seasonal beverages.
The Shoppes at Copper Mill Mercantile
The Shoppes at Copper Mill Mercantile is a treasure trove for holiday shoppers, featuring more than 500 vendor spaces across 50,000 square feet. You’ll find an incredible mix of boutique items, vintage finds, handcrafted goods, collectibles, and home décor — truly something for everyone on your list. It’s the kind of place where you can spend hours exploring and leave with gifts that feel personal and one-of-a-kind.
Dickinson Avenue Farmers and Makers
Farmers and Makers celebrate all things local with a collection of goods from Eastern North Carolina growers, makers, and artists. You’ll find everything from handmade soaps and gourmet treats to artisan crafts and seasonal specialties. It’s a one-stop shop for meaningful gifts that support local talent and small businesses.
Artisans is a must stop for unique, handcrafted treasures and gifts you won’t find anywhere else. Their shelves are filled with pottery, jewelry, art, and home décor made by regional artists. Whether you’re hunting for something elegant or whimsical, Artisans offers beautiful pieces that make every gift feel personal.
Community Parades & Celebrations
Greenville – Merry & Bright Night, Festival of Trees & Christmas Parade
The season officially sparkles to life in Greenville with Merry & Bright Night on December 5th from 5:30pm to–7:30pm at Five Points Plaza. This beloved annual celebration features live performances, a holiday market, marshmallow roasting, crafts, and even a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus! Bring donations for local nonprofits to help share the spirit of the season.
Get into even more festive spirit with the Festival of Trees at the Greenville Convention Center on November 28th through December 29th. Stroll through a winter wonderland of beautifully decorated trees created by local businesses, schools, and organizations — it’s the perfect place to snap a holiday photo (or two)!
Then, don’t miss the Greenville Jaycees Christmas Parade on December 6th at 5pm, when Evans Street turns into a magical, music-filled parade route featuring colorful floats, marching bands, and plenty of Christmas cheer.
And for one more twinkling touch, head downtown for the First Friday Art Walk – Holiday Edition on December 5th from 5:00pm to 8:00pm, where local galleries, shops, and restaurants stay open late with art, music, and special holiday happenings.
Winterville – Winterville Christmas Parade
Winterville’s holiday spirit shines bright during the Winterville Christmas Parade on December 13th at 2:00pm to 6:00pm! The parade winds through town with festive floats, community groups, and local bands spreading cheer. Afterward, stick around for Winter Wonder in Winterville, featuring local vendors, food trucks, and a magical tree-lighting ceremony at dusk.
Ayden – Christmastown & Parade of Lights
Ayden transforms into a true Christmastown on December 4th from 4:00PM–9:00PM! Explore the Christmas Town Market with more than 50 local vendors, grab a cup of cocoa, and meet Santa and Mrs. Claus for a photo op.
As the sun sets, the Ayden Parade of Lights takes over at 6:30 PM — a glowing, music-filled procession through downtown that’s sure to brighten your night. Don’t forget to check out the Storefront Décor Contest, where local businesses go all out with twinkling displays and creative holiday spirit!
Farmville – A Taste of Farmville & Farmville Christmas Parade
Farmville knows how to do the holidays right! Start the season with A Taste of Farmville on Friday, December 5th, a beloved tradition featuring carriage rides, live music, shopping, carolers, and sweet treats. Festivities begin with a tree lighting and story time with Santa at 6:00 PM on the Town Commons. Celebrate small-town charm at the Farmville Christmas Parade on December 13th at 10:30am along Main Street. Bring the family, bundle up, and enjoy festive floats, music, and appearances from some very jolly guests.
Festive Sips, Bites & Treats
All that holiday spirit is sure to build up an appetite! Luckily, Greenville-Pitt County has plenty of sweet spots and cozy corners to warm you up.
Blackbeard Coffee Roasters and Cooper’s Cup are perfect for peppermint mochas, gingerbread lattes, and fresh-baked seasonal treats.
Native Fine Diner and Crush Distillery are serving up festive cocktails and hearty comfort foods.
For something sweet, grab cookies or cakes from Gwendy’s Goodies in Ayden or a cone of Little Debbie Christmas Tree ice cream from Simply Natural Creamery — because holiday calories don’t count!
In Farmville, cozy up at Gorham’s Café for homestyle comfort or swing by Little Rocket for classic burgers and small-town diner charm — perfect after an evening of lights and cheer!
Bright Lights & More!
The holiday season shines bright throughout Greenville-Pitt County with dazzling displays and festive fun for all ages. Hop aboard Aquaventure’s Jingle Bell Express, a magical ride through Winterville that brings the sparkle of the season to life. Cruise through some of Greenville’s most decorated neighborhoods filled with twinkling lights such as Michael Shoaf's Christmas Lightshow located at 104 Harell Street where you can tune into a local radio station to enjoy music while seeing the lights! Don’t miss the glowing Lights at the Refuge in Ayden, a beloved tradition that combines beauty, music, and holiday spirit. And for an immersive, photo-worthy experience, step into Dreamland Escapes, where every corner feels like a scene from your favorite holiday movie.
