As local Clayton REALTORS® who have spent decades helping families plant roots here in Johnston County, we can tell you this: Christmas is when our town feels the most like home.
The lights get brighter, the cocoa gets sweeter, and the community comes together in ways that remind you why Clayton is one of the fastest-growing — and most heartwarming — towns in the Triangle.
To help you plan your holiday fun, here’s your full guide to every Christmas event happening in Clayton for 2025.
(And if you want even more events across JoCo, check out our full guide: RiverWILD Christmas Events.)
Nov 29: Shop Small Business Saturday
Location: Downtown Clayton
Support local makers, browse unique gifts, and enjoy retail specials from hometown businesses. A great way to shop local and support the vibrant downtown scene.
Dec 1 – Dec 25: Merry Municipal Walk-Thru Light Show
Location: Municipal Park
Cost: FREE (Except Dec 11)
Every evening throughout December, Municipal Park transforms into a glowing forest of lights. Bring the kids, your date, or just yourself — it’s that peaceful.
Dec 4: Christmas Village & Tree Lighting
Location: Downtown Clayton
Time: 5pm–8pm
Cost: FREE
Walk the charming downtown streets, shop from holiday vendors, enjoy performances, and celebrate the official lighting of Clayton’s Christmas tree located at the Clayton Town Square.
Dec 5: “Yuletide Spirits” – Clayton Piano Festival
Location: The Clayton Center
Time: 7:30pm
Immerse yourself in holiday music performed by world-class pianists and local musicians. Tickets available now.
Dec 6: Elf Academy
Location: Clayton Parks & Recreation
Kids learn the fine art of elf-ing — crafts, activities, and lots of giggles. Registration is open.
Dec 11: Merry Municipal Express
Location: Municipal Park
Time: 5pm
A special, ticketed experience for families — complete with festive activities and magical surprises. Tickets sell out early!
Dec 13: Clayton Christmas Parade
Location: Downtown Clayton
Time: 11am
Cost: FREE
Hosted by the Clayton Rotary Club, this parade fills Main Street with floats, dancers, bands, and all the small-town charm you could hope for.
Dec 18: Merry Municipal Hot Cocoa with Santa
Location: Municipal Park
Time: 6pm
Cost: FREE
Enjoy cocoa, treats, and photos with Santa himself.
Dec 20: Motown & Soul Christmas
Location: The Clayton Center
Times: 3pm & 7:30pm
Finish the season with a high-energy, soulful concert that blends holiday favorites with Motown classics.
Holiday Cheer Meets Clayton Living
At RiverWILD Real Estate, we serve families across some of Clayton, Johnston and Harnett County’s most loved communities — including:
➡️ Alton Fields
➡️ Archer’s Park
➡️ Ashcroft
➡️ Eller Farms
➡️ Harvest Meadows
➡️ Longleaf Village
➡️ Maggie Way
➡️ Marin Woods
➡️ O’Neil Overlook
➡️ Riverside
➡️ Riverwood Ranch (Coming in 2026)
➡️ Sawyer Ridge (Coming in 2026)
➡️ Sommerset (Coming in 2026)
These neighborhoods are filled with friendly neighbors, holiday lights, festive gatherings, and that unmistakable holiday spirit.
If you’re thinking about making Clayton or any of our new home communities your home in 2025 or 2026, our team is here to guide you every step of the way, from move-in-ready new homes to local expertise rooted in decades of experience.