It’s that time of year again! The holidays are a wonderful time to take a trip to Greater Raleigh, where you can explore local holiday traditions, take care of gift shopping and find holiday cheer mixed with southern charm. The 2011-12 holiday season is sure to be unforgettable, with shopping extravaganzas, historic tours, special concerts, theatrical performances and so much more.

If you’re an Adrenaline Junkie, lace up your skates and head out to the AT&T Raleigh Winterfest Ice Rink, or grab your running shoes for the annual Jingle Bell Run/Walk for Arthritis. Creative Geniuses won’t be able to get enough of the dozens of holiday performances and concerts during November and December, and Lifelong Learners will have a blast on the many historic holiday tours and exhibits the area has to offer.

Fashionistas can shop like crazy at one of the shopping events in the area, or plan your own shopping day among the county’s 11 major shopping areas. Foodies, beware!  You’ll find so many holiday dinners and events that you’ll be happily bursting at the seams when you return home. Free Spirits and everyone in between can enjoy parades, plus lightings of the Menorah, the Kinara and the spruce tree.

Is your head spinning? Explore all of the fun holiday events Greater Raleigh has to offer on visitRaleigh.com’s holiday website. Plus, find great holiday deals on accommodations, travel and shopping.  ‘Tis the season to visit Raleigh!