Coffee Breakfast

MiCHill Note: This article was originally published in 2010. Many of the events listed below occur every year, and the trees are an annual tradition, but be sure to check out the dates and the costs before showing up.
I am completely in the Christmas spirit now (I was already crazed then we got our wintry weather, so I am a bit of bear to be around right now, MERRY CHRISTMAS)! So when I read that Carolina Inn hosts an annual “Twelve Days of Christmas” event all December long, I was game to check it out. I drug Stacey “S’Rich” along with me.

I had seen this as a recommended adventure for kids, but if you recall Stace & I both have very active toddler boys. The Carolina Inn’s display is an artistic variation of the Twelve Days of Christmas by North Carolina artists. It is absolutely beautiful and creative, but I have to be honest and say it did not hold our kids’ interest. They wanted large Christmas trees with lights and stars and Santas. I would recommend this for older children who can appreciate the ingenuity and uniqueness of the pieces.

The large sand castle out in front of the Inn did hold some interest for our little ones, though, which gives me hope that the Annual Gingerbread Competition, which opens and is on display starting December 11th, will be more entertaining for my toddler.

But really never fear, because outside of the Twelve Days of Christmas displays, the Carolina Inn gives some good opportunities for families to celebrate:

Every Saturday from 8:30 -10:30 am they offer a Breakfast with Santa. It is $15 for kids 3-12, $20 for adults, kids under 3 are free. Reservations are required, but it is open seating.

But why have breakfast when you can have Brunch with Santa! On Sundays from 10:30 am – 12:30 pm there is a whole event. “Enjoy a festive Carolina Inn brunch and watch the magic of the holiday season come alive. Magicians and face painters will be on hand to entertain everyone. Each child is welcome to sit on Santa’s lap and will receive a holiday Beanie Baby.” This is more expensive with $20 for kids 3-12, $25 for adults but, again, kids under 3 are free. Reservations required.