HAVE A JOLLY RALEIGH HOLIDAY IN GREATER RALEIGH
Greater Raleigh CVB Provides Easy-To-Use Tool for Finding Seasonal Events

RALEIGH, N.C. - It's that time once again - time to wrap up another year; time to wrapup in a snug sweater; perhaps it's even time to wrap up a present or two. Visitors to Greater Raleigh will find holiday cheer mixed with southern charm that creates the perfect recipe for an unforgettable 2009 holiday season. This year's festivities include holiday concerts and theatrical performances, historic tours, trains and parades, shopping extravaganzas and visits from Santa. And best of all - many of this season's
events are completely FREE. So, light the Menorah, the Kinara and the spruce tree-the holidays are here again!

For a complete listing of holiday events visit www.visitRaleigh.com/holidays and North Carolina residents don't forget to register to win a weekend in the Raleigh area as part of our Get Off Your County Seat sweepstakes. Take our quiz to find out what type of visitor you are and events to match your personality. We've also included some great hotel rates and packages for an even more affordable holiday getaway.

Here's a glimpse of holiday events in Greater Raleigh:

Adrenaline Junkie

Put on your skates because it doesn't have to be arctic cold to enjoy winter sports. The Raleigh area has been transformed into a winter wonderland complete with outdoor ice rinks that will allow you and your family to skate through the holiday season.

• AT&T Downtown Raleigh Winterfest Ice Rink (Dec. 4-Jan. 31)

• Raleigh on Ice Brier Creek Commons (Nov. 14-Dec. 12)

• Raleigh on Ice North Hills (Nov. 21-Jan. 3)

Creative Genius-Don't be a Scrooge
Be part of a 35-year Raleigh tradition, Ira David Wood's performance of the Dicken's classic, A Christmas Carol, Dec. 8 through Dec. 16. Want a high-tech version of this holiday favorite? Then head over to the Wachovia IMAX theatre to the new 3-D version, Nov. 6-Dec. 17. Visions of sugarplums will dance in your head after watching the Carolina Ballet dance the holiday classic The Nutcracker, Dec. 18-27.

Fashionista-The Rock and Shop Market
Finish last-minute gift-buying at this one-of-a-kind shopping experience: an indoor fashion, art and music flea market featuring independent designers and live music by local performers, Dec. 19. Or, find the perfect gift for everyone on your list at one of the area's 11 major shopping destinations.

Foodie-Tea with Santa
Bring the family to share the holiday spirit and a cup of Earl Grey with Santa and Mrs. Claus and be entertained by the Raleigh Boy Choir at the Umstead Hotel and Spa, Dec. 5, 12 and 19.

History Buff-Take a Segway Tour
You'll explore Raleigh's Historic Oakwood by Segway and also walk through holidaydecorated, 19th-century homes on the Oakwood Candlelight Tour. Your guide will tell you about this neighborhood's fascinating history, Dec. 12-13.

Rock-Star Wannabe-Jammin' New Year's Eve
If the local music scene is what you crave, make plans to ring in the New Year, jamming to the modern bluegrass of up-and-comers, Yarn, at the Pour House Music Hall in downtown Raleigh, Dec. 31. Check out local musicians and more at the 19th Annual First Night Raleigh. The celebration features family-friendly entertainment, make-and-take arts and crafts for children, and more. Raleigh's own version of the Times Square's Ball Drop takes place at midnight with an Acorn Drop and spectacular fireworks display.

The Greater Raleigh Convention & Visitors Bureau, as the official destination marketing
organization of Raleigh and Wake County, accelerates sustainable economic growth and
development by increasing visitor and convention business. For a free visitors guide or
more promotional information, call (800) 849-8499; visit www.visitraleigh.com, or email
visit@visitraleigh.com.