Celebrate The Holidays In Downtown Raleigh
Source: Balsam Hill / balsamhill.com
Downtown Raleigh is home to a season’s worth of special holiday experiences for you and your family to enjoy. Check out this list of highlights, or visit our event calendar for an up-to-date collection of fun things to do Downtown this December and New Years.
Raleigh Christmas Parade
Saturday, November 23rd
You won’t want to miss the pageantry and excitement of the 2024 ABC11 Raleigh Christmas Parade presented by Shop Local Raleigh on November 23, 2024 in Downtown Raleigh! The parade will kick off the holiday festivities at 9:30 am street side and on ABC11, the ABC11 streaming apps, and the ABC News Hulu channel.
THE RINK
Saturday, November 23rd – January 20th, 2025
Come enjoy the thrill of ice skating in a winter wonderland created in the heart of Downtown Raleigh! THE RINK inside Red Hat Amphitheater features a natural ice skating rink with stunning views of the Raleigh skyline. Activities and amenities include: fire pits, igloo lounges, a 20ft decorated Christmas Tree, snack bar with refreshments, games, and more. Tickets required.
The Dessertery
Friday, November 22nd – Monday, December 23rd
Indulge yourself in a family friendly holiday themed dessert café. The Dessertery, located within the Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts, features elaborate holiday decor, all you can eat sweets + hot cocoa, and live entertainment on select nights.
Hartwell Christmas Tree Sale + Small Business Saturday Market
Friday, November 29th – Saturday, November 30th
Come out for the 2nd annual Christmas tree sale at Hartwell! They’ll have some of Ashe County’s finest Fraser firs available along with various wreaths and garland.
Small Business Saturday
Saturday, November 30th
Celebrate downtown’s many independent retailers by getting out to shop on Small Business Saturday! Some downtown businesses will offer deals, put out exclusive products, or host special events, so take advantage of this opportunity to get your gift-shopping done early—while giving back to the community at the same time.
A Celtic Christmas by A Taste of Ireland
Saturday, November 30th
Experience the enchantment of Ireland this holiday season with A Celtic Christmas, a captivating celebration from the creators of A Taste of Ireland. This festive Irish dancing performance brings together the heart of Irish traditions and the warmth of Christmas into an unforgettable show.
Rock Around the Block
Thursday, December 5th
Grab your holiday cheer and come out to hang on Person Street for an evening of shopping and festive fun. Over ten neighboring businesses will be participating, including a food truck that the family is sure to love!
Illuminate Art Walk
Friday, December 6th (December First Friday) – Monday, January 6th
Downtown Raleigh comes to light every holiday season with Illuminate Art Walk presented by Wake Tech! Since December 2020, Illuminate Art Walk has transformed downtown into a wonderland of art and light—fun for people of all ages.
Downtown Raleigh Christmas Tree
The Downtown Raleigh Christmas Tree stands tall and shines brightly outside the Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts. Bring your family for a festive photo op or just marvel at the beauty of Downtown’s official Christmas tree. Located at 2 E South St. Illuminated after dark!
Evening with the Elves
Friday, December 6th
Jingle, joy, twinkle & twilight. This Marbles Kids Museum holiday celebration is a delight! Immerse yourself into the magic of the holiday season with s’mores outdoors, arctic museum play, and a special visit from the Snowflake Fairy.
Classical Christmas with Carlos
Friday, December 6th – Saturday, December 7th
Celebrate the season as Music Director Carlos Miguel Prieto conducts selections from Bach’s Christmas Oratorio and Handel’s Messiah, including the Hallelujah Chorus, with your North Carolina Symphony and the North Carolina Master Chorale.
Brunch with Santa
Saturday, December 7th
Jingle all the way to the Sheraton Raleigh for a jolly good time! Join them for a brunch with Santa and make magical memories with the whole family.
Self-Care Crawl & Holiday Market Fundraiser
Saturday, December 14th
Get ready for the ultimate holiday experience during Darkness Rising Project’s Self-Care Crawl & Holiday Market Fundraiser at Crissy Shined Nails, One For All Thrift, and Evette’s Beauty Salon! Relax with refreshing chair massages, enjoy delicious lite bites & festive drinks, and capture magical memories with Black Santa Claus! Plus, get your holiday shopping done with unique vendors offering gifts for everyone on your list.
WRAL First Night Raleigh
Tuesday, December 31st
Thousands of residents come together on New Year’s Eve for WRAL First Night Raleigh in the heart of downtown. The night is capped off at midnight with music on the outdoor Main Stage, the famous Raleigh Acorn Drop, and a spectacular fireworks show. Some portions of the event are ticketed.
Source: PEO Productions / PEO Productions
