November arrives in Winston-Salem, bringing with it all the magic of the season. From art walks and opera performances to holiday markets and craft fairs, the Triad community really comes alive this time of year. You might have been living here for years, or you might be just starting to explore. Either way, November has so much to offer for everyone.
At The Ginther Group, we believe it’s not just about finding the perfect home; it’s about becoming a part of the community. We put together this handy guide to November’s best events. Not only will they give you a taste of the local culture, but they also bring people together, support local businesses, and celebrate the creativity that makes our city so special.
Mark your calendar, and get ready to start planning your next adventure. These November events in Winston-Salem are going to create memories that last a lifetime, and show you all the amazing hidden corners of our beautiful city.
Arts and Culture Events
Ardmore Art Walk
Nov 8 | Ardmore Neighborhood
The Ardmore Art Walk is a real treat for anyone who loves art and exploring our city. The historic Ardmore area is transformed into an outdoor art gallery, with local artists setting up their work on front lawns all over the neighborhood. You can stroll around, meet the artists, and even pick up some of their amazing work. You can find everything from paintings and sculptures to handmade crafts and jewelry. This is a relaxed, friendly event that’s just as great for a family day out or a fun trip with a couple of friends.
Piedmont Opera’s “Pagliacci”
Nov 8, 9 & 11 | Millenium Event Center
Get ready for a truly unique opera experience with Piedmont Opera’s production of “Pagliacci”. This is no stuffy old opera. The performers actually move through the audience, bringing the drama right up close to you. The story of a jealous clown whose real life heartbreak mirrors the performance he gives on stage is just as gripping as it sounds. This innovative approach makes opera accessible to newcomers, while seasoned opera fans will love it too.
Winter Registration at Sawtooth School for Visual Art
Registration Opens Nov 11
The Sawtooth School for Visual Art is opening winter registration for their super-popular “Taste of Art” workshops and regular classes from November to March. These hands-on sessions are perfect for everyone, whether you’re a total beginner or a seasoned pro. You can try your hand at making colorful pottery, crafting wooden cutting boards, making copper bracelets, designing macrame plant hangers or loads more (you can do it all in just a few hours). These sessions make a perfect date night, a fun gift for the holidays, or even a fun family outing.
Sawtooth Youth Department Programs
The Sawtooth Youth Department is a really supportive place for young artists of all levels. Young artists can explore a variety of different art forms, from traditional drawing and painting to digital art, mixed media, printmaking and loads more.
Shopping and Holiday Events
Shop the Block
Nov 4-9 | Downtown Winston-Salem
Get a head start on your holiday shopping by supporting local businesses during Shop the Block week. Participating businesses in downtown Winston-Salem are offering special deals and discounts making this week the perfect chance to discover unique gifts while exploring the heart of the city.
This event encourages you to explore the diverse retail landscape of downtown Winston-Salem, from boutique clothing stores and specialty gift shops to local artisan vendors. It’s a great chance to pick up some one-off items while doing your bit for the local economy and discovering new favorite spots in the downtown area.
Drinks @ Dusk
Nov 5 | Reynolda House Museum
Reynolda House Museum is hosting an adult-only evening event (21+) with drinks, live music, and a creative scavenger hunt that takes you on a tour through the museum’s new “Camel City” exhibition. The event runs from 6-9pm and offers a sophisticated way to explore Winston-Salem’s cultural scene.
This one-of-a-kind after dark museum event mashes education with entertainment, giving visitors the chance to enjoy Reynolda House’s beautiful surroundings while learning local history through the engaging scavenger hunt format. It’s the perfect way for couples to shake up date night or for friends to try something new while showing off their support for local arts and culture.
Piedmont Craftsmen’s 62nd annual craft fair
November 22-23 | Benton Convention Center
For over six decades, this highly regarded annual event showcases the very best of fine craft from across the region. Think over 100 top-notch artisans, each offering one-off, beautifully crafted items that are as lovely to look at as they are to use.
You can browse an incredible selection of handmade pieces, from individualized jewelry to gorgeous pottery, textiles, woodwork, glass art and loads more. This high-end craft fair only takes the very best, so you can rest assured that every item represents the best of contemporary American craft. If you’re on the hunt for a unique holiday present, and want to get up close and personal with the creatives behind them, then this is the place to be.
Holiday Celebrations
Tanglewood Festival of Lights
November 14-January 1
A beloved local tradition, the Tanglewood Festival of Lights opens on November 14. This drive-through event features over one million twinkling lights arranged in beautiful holiday displays. For those who prefer a more personal experience, a special walking tour called the “Totally Outstanding Awesome Stroll through Tanglewood” will be held on November 9, allowing visitors to see the lights up close.
Portraits with Santa
November 22 ~9–12pm: Photos with Santa & 12–1pm: Family photos without Santa
Join us for a free, festive photo session with Santa! Capture cherished family memories with complimentary portraits. We’ll also have a delicious breakfast spread, plus hot cocoa, and other drinks to enjoy while you mingle and get into the holiday spirit.
Holiday Market & Christmas Tree Lighting
November 22
Taking place at 500 W 5th, this festive event offers holiday shopping with local vendors, s’mores by the fire, and live holiday music.
Reynolda Village Holiday Stroll
November 22
Reynolda Village hosts their annual Holiday Stroll, complete with carriage rides, hot cocoa, Victorian carolers, and a visit from Santa.
Christmas at Körner’s Folly
Opens November 25
Step into Victorian Christmas at Körner’s Folly, where historic holiday decorations bring the season to life. Visitors can even vote for the best-decorated room.
Joy of Christmas in Old Salem
November 28-29 and every weekend through December
Step back in time and discover how Christmas was celebrated in Old Salem. Our outdoor walking tour will guide you through the area’s history, revealing the origins of traditions and how they’ve evolved over time. Experience a journey down charming, historic streets and into the heart of Old Salem’s past.
Tours begin at 6:30 p.m. and depart every 15 minutes, with the final tour at 7:45 p.m. This engaging experience includes hands-on activities and sweet treats.
Other Notable November Events
November’s calendar is packed in Winston-Salem. You can get ahead of the game for the ‘Wicked’ sequel by catching a special screening of part one on November 7 at Truist Stadium.
Sports fans are in luck too, as the Wake Forest Deacons will be facing off against UNC on November 15 at Allegacy Stadium. The Deacs are looking pretty strong after their first 7 games!
Community members can get involved with the Turkey Strut 5K on November 27 at Winston-Salem Fairground. Support the We Care House of Winston-Salem while you’re at it. Fun fact: the winner gets a turkey, no kidding.
November in Winston-Salem: Events, Festivals & things to see and do
November brings a right old mix of events that show off exactly why Winston-Salem’s such a lovely place to live, with its incredible arts scene, great culture, and lovely traditions. All these happenings show off the friendly spirit and the creative energy that makes our lovely Triad such a wonderful place to live and call home.
Whether you’re a Winston-Salem resident or you’re thinking of making the move, these events offer the perfect chance to meet some of the locals, discover some new and different places to go, and get a real feel for what makes our special little city tick.
We’ve seen here at The Ginther Group how being a part of this community really makes you feel right at home, whether you’ve lived here for years or you’re just getting started. Mark your calendar, gather your friends and family, and start planning your November adventures. This is one of the best ways to truly experience the vibrant community life that makes our city so special while having fun along the way.
If you’re ready to make Winston-Salem your home or need assistance with your real estate goals, The Ginther Group is here to help. Our team is passionate about this community and committed to guiding you every step of the way. Whether buying, selling, or just exploring your options, we’re here to answer your questions and provide real estate advice. Contact us today to start your next chapter with confidence!
