Raleigh, N.C., Holiday Events
Cold nights, warm lights—that’s Raleigh in December. As soon as the season settles in, the city shifts into full-on festive mode, with downtown streets glowing, venue marquees buzzing and neighborhoods rolling out traditions that feel both familiar and brand new.
For visitors, it’s an easy time to fall for the area. The season arrives with twinkling lights, crisp evenings and a full slate of festive traditions across Raleigh. Downtown glows, local stages come alive and neighborhoods—from Cary to Wake Forest—roll out tree lightings, markets and moments that feel right out of a holiday postcard. Whether you’re planning a cozy weekend getaway or building a full holiday itinerary, the season here delivers plenty to unwrap.
Learn all about the top holiday events in the Raleigh area below, including:
- North Carolina Chinese Lantern Festival, through Jan. 11
- Skate the Square at Fenton, through Feb. 8
- THE Rink at Red Hat Amphitheater, through Dec. 28
- Christmas Lights on Holt Road, through Dec. 26
- Wendell Wonderland, Dec. 5
- Theatre in the Park presents A Christmas Carol, Dec. 5-7
- Apex Rotary Christmas Parade, Dec. 6
- Garner Christmas Parade, Dec. 6
- Downtown Cary Park Tree Lighting Celebration, Dec. 6
- Fuquay-Varina Christmas Parade, Dec. 7
- Trans-Siberian Orchestra, Dec. 11
- Neuse River Big Band's Swingin' Holiday, Dec. 11
- Moore Square Winterfaire, Dec. 11-14
- Carolina Ballet presents The Nutcracker, Dec. 11-24
- Celtic Angels Christmas, Dec. 12-13
- Happy Holly Days Christmas Parade, Dec. 13
- Knightdale Christmas Parade, Dec. 13
- Holiday Open House at Mordecai Historic Park, Dec. 13-14
- 54th Annual Historic Oakwood Candlelight Tour, Dec. 13-14
- Zebulon Christmas Parade, Dec. 14
- Raleigh Ringers Holiday Concerts, Dec. 14-15
- Downtown Cary Park Hanukkah Menorah Lighting, Dec. 16
- Downtown Raleigh’s Menorah Lighting, Dec. 16
- Jeanne Jolly & The Mistletoes, Dec. 19
- Disney On Ice presents Jump In, Dec. 17-21
- A Candlelight Christmas with the N.C. Symphony Holiday Brass, Dec. 19-23
- First Night Raleigh, Dec. 31
