1. Raleigh Christmas Parade
Date: November 23, 2024
Time:9:30 AM
Location: Downtown Raleigh, beginning on Hillsborough Street
The 80th annual Raleigh Christmas Parade is one of the largest holiday parades in the Southeast, attracting tens of thousands of spectators each year. Enjoy floats, dancers, live performances, and Santa himself. Make sure to arrive early for a prime viewing spot along the 1.4-mile parade route and witness this cherished holiday tradition kick off the season in style!
2. Downtown Raleigh Tree Lighting Celebration
Date: November 22, 2024
Time: 5:30 PM - 8:00 PM
Location: Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts
Raleigh’s downtown tree lighting is an enchanting evening full of live entertainment, family-friendly activities, and holiday treats. Watch as the Christmas tree is lit against the backdrop of Raleigh’s skyline, marking the official start of the holiday season. Kids can enjoy crafts and games, and you may even spot Santa!
3. North Carolina Chinese Lantern Festival
Dates: November 16, 2024 - January 12, 2025
Location: Koka Booth Amphitheatre, Cary
One of the most visually spectacular events of the season, the Chinese Lantern Festival features hundreds of hand-crafted lanterns illuminated by thousands of LED lights. Each year, the designs change, so there’s always something new to marvel at. With cultural performances, food, and unique photo ops, this is a can’t-miss event for all ages!
4. The Nutcracker by Carolina Ballet
Dates: December 12-24, 2024
Location: Raleigh Memorial Auditorium
Experience the magic of *The Nutcracker*, a classic holiday ballet that’s perfect for families and ballet lovers alike. Carolina Ballet’s beautiful choreography and dazzling costumes bring this story to life, making it a memorable tradition for many Raleigh residents. Be sure to get your tickets early as this show often sells out!
5. Historic Oakwood Candlelight Tour
Dates: December 14-15, 2024
Time:1:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Location: Historic Oakwood Neighborhood
Step back in time on a self-guided tour of Raleigh’s Historic Oakwood, where Victorian, Queen Anne, and Craftsman homes are decked out in holiday décor. Explore the interiors of select properties, each with unique histories and architectural styles. This limited-ticket event is beloved by history buffs and architecture enthusiasts alike, so reserve your spot early!
6. Skate the Square at Fenton
Dates:November 8, 2024 - February 9, 2025
Location: Fenton Square, Cary
Enjoy outdoor ice skating at Fenton, where friends and families of all ages can glide under twinkling holiday lights. Tickets include skate rentals, but feel free to bring your own. This winter wonderland experience runs through February, so there’s plenty of time to make it part of your holiday tradition!
7. Christmas Carol by Theatre in the Park
Dates: December 6-8, 2024 (Raleigh) & December 18-22, 2024 (Durham)
Location: Martin Marietta Center for Performing Arts, Raleigh & Durham Performing Arts Center
Theatre in the Park’s unique adaptation of *A Christmas Carol* is a Triangle tradition. With humor, heart, and a fresh take on Dickens’ tale, it’s a beloved annual performance that keeps audiences coming back year after year.
8. Jolly Raleigh Holiday Market
Date: December 7, 2024
Time 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Location: Raleigh Iron Works
Get your holiday shopping done while supporting local businesses at the Jolly Raleigh Holiday Market. With a variety of artisans offering unique crafts, holiday treats, and festive drinks, this market is the perfect spot to find one-of-a-kind gifts and enjoy the community spirit of the season.
9. North Carolina Symphony Holiday Concerts
Location: Meymandi Concert Hall, Raleigh
Celebrate the season with the North Carolina Symphony’s holiday concerts, featuring a range of themes and special events:
Cirque Holiday Pops: November 27 & 29-30, 2024
Classical Christmas with Carlos: December 6-7, 2024
Ugly Sweater Holiday Pops: December 13, 2024
A Candlelight Christmas with the Symphony Brass: December 20-22, 2024
From festive classics to playful holiday tunes, the symphony’s performances offer something for every music lover. Plus, the Ugly Sweater Pops is a perfect chance to wear your quirkiest holiday gear!
10. Tree Lightings Across the Triangle
Dates & Locations:
North Hills Christmas Tree Lighting: November 23, 2024, from 4 PM to 7 PM
Cary Tree Lighting Ceremony:December 7, 2024, at 6 PM
Light the Square at Fenton:November 23, 2024, from 3 PM to 7 PM
Tree lighting ceremonies are one of the best ways to usher in the holiday spirit, featuring live music, Santa sightings, and activities for the kids.
11. Apex Rotary Christmas Parade
Date: December 7, 2024
Time: 5 PM
Location:Downtown Apex
As the only nighttime holiday parade in Wake County, Apex’s Rotary Christmas Parade adds a magical glow to the streets of historic downtown Apex. With floats, lights, and a festive atmosphere, it’s a beloved community event.
12. Holiday Light Displays
Piper Lights: A family-run light show in Wake Forest with elaborate displays and a small train for kids.
Fieldstream Farm Lights (Garner): A stunning drive-through experience with themed light displays, ideal for a family outing.
Downtown Raleigh’s LuminoCity Festival: This immersive light display is sure to enchant visitors with its interactive installations and festive themes.
Raleigh’s holiday scene is packed with things to see, do, and enjoy this season, making it one of the best times to explore our beautiful city. If you’re considering a move to Raleigh, why not experience these holiday events first-hand and discover what makes this community special? Ready to find your dream home in Raleigh or explore more about living in this vibrant city? Contact The Michael Brown Team today for all your real estate needs and take the first step toward your new beginning in Raleigh.