December 12 & 19, 2026

Tryon Palace Grounds
3:30 – 9:30 p.m.

Join us for the holiday magic of Candlelight, Tryon Palace’s famed winter event showcasing the beautifully decorated Palace illuminated by the glow of candlelight. On this special tour, you’ll visit rooms throughout the Palace where costumed interpreters present an engaging story celebrating the earliest days of our statehood.

Beyond the Palace tour, your Candlelight ticket also includes tours of the historic Stanly and Dixon Houses and access to the activities and entertainment on the Palace grounds, including the Tryon Palace Fife and Drum Corps, North Carolina Continental Line camp, entertainment performers, and the Tryon Palace Museum Shop! You’ll also find snacks, hot beverages, and of course our tavern!

Food will be available to purchase from several food trucks located outside the Palace gates along with places to sit and eat; ticket holders can enjoy their meal with a drink on the grounds at the tavern!

This year gates open to all ticket holders at 3:30 p.m. Your Palace tour time is indicated on your ticket, but plan time before and after your tour to enjoy all that Candlelight has to offer. Around 9:30 p.m., guests will be treated to a spectacular show of black powder fireworks! Candlelight is a holiday tradition that you will not want to miss!

Tickets for Candlelight are on sale now!
Early bird ticket prices run until Oct. 1. Buy your tickets early, as the event tends to sell-out.

Candlelight is a rain or shine event, but fireworks may be cancelled during extreme weather conditions. Tickets are non-refundable and non-exchangeable. To ensure a more historically accurate experience and so all guests can enjoy their experience, we request no photography or videography within the historic buildings.

Tripods, lights, and drones are not allowed on Tryon Palace grounds at any time.