by Raleigh Magazine | Nov 30, 2023 | December 2023/January 2024, Do
Through 12/23
The Dessertery
It’s beginning to taste a lot like Christmas… especially at Martin Marietta’s all-you-can-eat seasonal sweets cafe. And calories don’t count during the holidays, so be sure to treat your elf! martinmariettacenter.com
Through 12/24
The 1940’s Radio Hour
Travel back in time to channel the nostalgia and spirit of the ’40s with classic songs that portray the final holiday broadcast of the Mutual Manhattan Variety Cavalcade in 1942. theatreraleigh.com
Through 1/5
Illuminate Art Walk
Head into the holidays (literally) via this year’s installment of Illuminate Art Walk, lighting up the DTR streets with its signature piece, “Talking Heads,” created by Limelight and distributed by Wireframe. Plus, spy a scad of stunning pieces compliments of NC light artists highlighting our state’s wildlife, along with our innovative past, present and future. Merry and bright, indeed! downtownraleigh.org
Through 1/7
Dutch Art in a Global Age
Talk about going global. Take in myriad masterpieces from the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston that explore the crossways between art, commercial networks and Colonial expansion. ncartmuseum.org
Through 1/14
NC Chinese Lantern Festival
The fan-fave fest promises to be *lit* again this year thanks to 40+ new awe-inspiring Chinese lantern displays—plus captivating cultural performances nightly. Glow on! boothamphitheatre.com
Through 1/15
The Rink Presented by UNC Health
Ice, ice baby. Figure-eight your way into the holidays with the return of Raleigh’s festive Rockefeller-esque ice skating rink at Red Hat. redhatamphitheater.com
Through 3/31
Igloos at Unscripted
Just chillin’? Roll up to your own personal igloo experience filled with a pre-set food menu and an immaculate winter wonderland vibe (plus wine pairings and bevs available for purchase). How festive! opentable.com
12/20–22
Gingerbread Tea
Pinkies up! Grub on festive finger-friendly fare (think sandwiches and savory/sweet treats) and sip on hot tea and cocoa to celebrate the simply sweet holiday season. ncartmuseum.org
12/21
Make Music Winter
The winter solstice is here, and so is the spontaneous concert bringing you a not-so-silent night full of music and joy. The event is a genuine jam sesh, going wherever the music takes the musicians—with audience requests encouraged. Don’t forget your tambourines and shakers! makemusicday.org
12/22
The Davie Christmas Party
Naughty or nice? Either way, get your festive party on at The Davie’s Christmas party feat. delish holiday cocktails. Cheers to the season! @thedavieraleigh
12/22–23
Oakwood24 Run/Walk
Lace up your running (or walking) shoes for underserved individuals in Wake County struggling with addiction and support recovery. Ready, step, go! healing-transitions.org
12/22–23
A Candlelight Christmas
Get lit this holiday season—literally—via a symphonic swoon taking in the sounds of the season via orchestra and children’s choir aglow in candlelight. ncsymphony.org
12/23
Canes vs. New York Islanders
Christmas blows in early for the Canes. nhl.com
12/23–24
Craig Woolard
Saving shopping till the very last minute? We’ve all been there. Luckily, the frontman of The Embers will serenade you while you shop (or sprint) around the mall. shopcrabtree.com
by Raleigh Magazine | Nov 30, 2023 | December 2023/January 2024, Do
Through 12/23
The Dessertery
It’s beginning to taste a lot like Christmas… especially at Martin Marietta’s all-you-can-eat seasonal sweets cafe. And calories don’t count during the holidays, so be sure to treat your elf! martinmariettacenter.com
Through 12/24
The 1940’s Radio Hour
Travel back in time to channel the nostalgia and spirit of the ’40s with classic songs that portray the final holiday broadcast of the Mutual Manhattan Variety Cavalcade in 1942. theatreraleigh.com
Through 1/5
Illuminate Art Walk
Head into the holidays (literally) via this year’s installment of Illuminate Art Walk, lighting up the DTR streets with its signature piece, “Talking Heads,” created by Limelight and distributed by Wireframe. Plus, spy a scad of stunning pieces compliments of NC light artists highlighting our state’s wildlife, along with our innovative past, present and future. Merry and bright, indeed! downtownraleigh.org
Through 1/7
Dutch Art in a Global Age
Talk about going global. Take in myriad masterpieces from the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston that explore the crossways between art, commercial networks and Colonial expansion. ncartmuseum.org
Through 1/14
NC Chinese Lantern Festival
The fan-fave fest promises to be *lit* again this year thanks to 40+ new awe-inspiring Chinese lantern displays—plus captivating cultural performances nightly. Glow on! boothamphitheatre.com
Through 1/15
The Rink Presented by UNC Health
Ice, ice baby. Figure-eight your way into the holidays with the return of Raleigh’s festive Rockefeller-esque ice skating rink at Red Hat. redhatamphitheater.com
Through 3/31
Igloos at Unscripted
Just chillin’? Roll up to your own personal igloo experience filled with a pre-set food menu and an immaculate winter wonderland vibe (plus wine pairings and bevs available for purchase). How festive! opentable.com
12/14
Sip, Savor & Style
Sip and snack in style at this laid-back evening featuring Reimagine Wine and entertaining tips from Canary. Sip, sip, hooray! shopsurcie.com
12/14–16
Joe Dombrowski
Say hey to “Mr. D,” a comic whose circa-2017 April Fools’ Day spelling test prank went viral and landed him national attention. Now, the elementary school teacher can be found garnering laughter around the globe—including at a few performances in Raleigh. goodnightscomedy.com
12/14–24
The Nutcracker
“Son of a nutcracker!” For an evening sure to be en pointe, see this classical Christmas performance serving all the holiday-season nostalgia via refreshed choreography, sets and costumes—and the return of Mother Ginger, of course. martinmariettacenter.com
12/15
Canes vs. Nashville
Predators become prey at PNC. nhl.com
12/15
Frost and Flame Fest
Fire, ice and everything nice! Bundle up for a dazzling night of fiery performances and cool ice sculptures that are sure to impress—plus enjoy s’mores, a skating rink, ice cream and pics with Santa himself. downtowncarypark.com
12/15
Gingerbuild Houses & Hops
Oh, (ginger) snap! Assemble—and eat—your own gingerbread house while sipping a brewski at this 21+ holiday soiree. Who says all the holiday fun is just for the kiddos?! marbleskidsmuseum.org
12/15
Gingerbread Showdown
If you romanticize Christmas baking shows, this is for you! Wow the judges with your fam’s skills and build the best candy-covered house to be crowned the Supreme Gingerbread Jam. How sweet! raleighnc.gov
12/15–17
The Nutcracker
Balletcore is in! Bound, leap and plié into the holiday season via this classic Christmas performance. Where else will you be able to experience the thrill of a dancing mouse king? caryballetcompany.org
12/16
Holiday Art Market
’Tis the holiday season! Browse the work of ~50 talented artists to find that perfect something for everyone this gift-giving season—from pottery and blown glass to sweet treats, festive beer and more! eventbrite.com
12/16
Craig Woolard
Pop into Crabtree to wrap up your Christmas list and jam out to some classic tunes from The Embers frontman and his Christmas-y one-man musical show. Rock on! shopcrabtree.com
12/16
Holiday Shop Open House
Don’t be a cotton headed ninny muggins! Find those final gifts for all your fave people (think vinyl, jewelry, soaps, candles and books) while enjoying a coffee bar also boasting sweet treats, and peppermint bark samples by The Apothecary’s Kitchen. Fa la la, indeed! facebook.com
12/17
Santa at The Mayton
Ask Santa to trim your tree with some decorations from Tiffany’s, then double-check your standing on the nice list while you’re at it. And be sure to grab a festive drink! peckandplume.com
12/19
Canes vs. Vegas
Willing to bet on the Canes to take down the defending Stanley Cup champs? nhl.com
12/20
NC State vs. St. Louis
All we want for Christmas is a Wolfpack win. Swish! gopack.com
by Raleigh Magazine | Nov 30, 2023 | December 2023/January 2024, Do
Through 12/23
The Dessertery
It’s beginning to taste a lot like Christmas… especially at Martin Marietta’s all-you-can-eat seasonal sweets cafe. And calories don’t count during the holidays, so be sure to treat your elf! martinmariettacenter.com
Through 1/5
Illuminate Art Walk
Head into the holidays (literally) via this year’s installment of Illuminate Art Walk, lighting up the DTR streets with its signature piece, “Talking Heads,” created by Limelight and distributed by Wireframe. Plus, spy a scad of stunning pieces compliments of NC light artists highlighting our state’s wildlife, along with our innovative past, present and future. Merry and bright, indeed! downtownraleigh.org
Through 1/7
Dutch Art in a Global Age
Talk about going global. Take in myriad masterpieces from the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston that explore the crossways between art, commercial networks and Colonial expansion. ncartmuseum.org
Through 1/14
NC Chinese Lantern Festival
The fan-fave fest promises to be *lit* again this year thanks to 40+ new awe-inspiring Chinese lantern displays—plus captivating cultural performances nightly. Glow on! boothamphitheatre.com
Through 1/15
The Rink Presented by UNC Health
Ice, ice baby. Figure-eight your way into the holidays with the return of Raleigh’s festive Rockefeller-esque ice skating rink at Red Hat. redhatamphitheater.com
Through 3/31
Igloos at Unscripted
Just chillin’? Roll up to your own personal igloo experience filled with a pre-set food menu and an immaculate winter wonderland vibe (plus wine pairings and bevs available for purchase). How festive! opentable.com
Opens 12/7
History of Moonshine and Motorsports in North Carolina
Racing and moonshine? It’s the ultimate rural Southern experience. Discover the perseverance and innovation behind the humble beginnings of over a century of distilling and racing. ncmuseumofhistory.org
12/7
Eric Neumann
Channel a bit of nervous laughter as this rapidly rising NYC-based comic works the crowd in Raleigh. And it *isn’t* just a phase! goodnightscomedy.com
12/7
Azura Holiday Open House
Get in the holiday spirit and drop in for a pick-me-up in the form of complementary bites and bevs, NTM special Botox pricing, skin care products and gift baskets. Look good, feel good, indeed! azuraskin.com
12/7
Rock Around the Block
Rock around the block and ensure your spirits are high via sips and shopping from Edge of Urge and Unlikely Professionals, aka your fave Person Street small businesses. #Sleigh! @edgeofurge
12/7
SKI-Ball Tournament
Calling all professional skiers! Win some seriously cool prizes while sipping on festive drinks from the Boxcar Jingle Bar. Don’t forget to show off your swanky ski jackets, bibs and goggles for four free game tokens. theboxcarbar.com
12/8
Dogs in a Pile
We double dog dare you to dance along with these paws-itively perfect NJ natives as they jam out to a fusion of psychedelia, funk and rock ’n’ roll. Welcome to the #DogPound. pourhouseraleigh.com
12/8
Figulina Pop-Up Dinner
Pop in for a first taste of new restaurant Figulina—which will be serving up fresh handmade pasta driven by local ingredients and the simplicity of Italian cooking, with a touch of Southern undertones to boot. Pasta la vista, baby! theraleighwineshop.com
12/8
Majid Jordan
Good people grab tix to see this talented Canadian R&B duo perform live at The Ritz. livenation.com
12/8
Silent Book Club
Every introvert’s social dream: found. Come with your current read or find a new one from Black Bird Books and Coffee before grabbing a hot bev, mingling for a minute and then reading quietly for a while. Shhhhh! @blackbirdbooksandcoffee
12/8–9
Jay Pharoah
Don’t miss former Saturday Night Live cast member Jay Pharoah shredding the stage and spinning comedy gold. BRB, we’re out of office. improv.com
12/8–10
A Christmas Carol
Bah humbug! Theatre in the Park is back with its 50th annual performance of Charles Dickens’ classic holiday tale at Martin Marietta feat. Ira David Wood III taking the stage for his final season as Scrooge. “A Merry Christmas to us all!” theatreinthepark.com
12/9
Second Annual Blue Hawaiian Christmas
Ready for a “Blue Christmas?” Belly up to Crank Arm for a heck of a holiday celebration, tropical style—and don’t miss the Hawaiian-inspired drinks. Let’s get lei’ed! crankarmbrewing.com
12/9
Chunky Blanket Workshop
Not only is a chunky blanket the “it” item of the season, but it is also easy to make yourself while sipping on a bev and snacking on bites. BYOB! wineanddesign.com
12/9
Let it Swing! A Holiday Jazz Soiree
“Baby, it’s cold outside.” … Warm up with classic swayworthy jazz and swing music for a vibe worth rockin’ around the Christmas tree at Maywood Hall and Garden. Dancing mode: activated. triangleprideband.com
12/9
NC Holiday Beer Fest
Ring in the holiday season test tasting the 25+ beers on tap from the likes of Hi-Wire Brewing, Gizmo Brew Works, Flat Rock Ciders, and more—along with handrolled cigars, Che Empanadas, and the release of Clouds Brewing and Mystic Distillery’s new barrel-aged imperial stout. ’Tis the season! eventbrite.com
12/9
NCMA Winter Lantern Walk
For lit evening plans, bundle up and bring a homemade lantern for a serene winter stroll through the Museum Park. This little light of mine… ncartmuseum.org
12/9
Public Open House for Smoky Hollow Park
Care to comment on the plan for Smoky Hollow Park? This meeting at the Halifax Park Community Center will review design plans, give project updates and open the floor for comments. raleighnc.gov
12/9
Santa Claus Is Coming to Town
The big man of the season will be back in town for photo opts, gift requests and light refreshments at Hillman Real Estate Group at eXp Realty. Hope you’ve been nice! hregsells.com
12/9
Tar Heel Troubadours: Jim Lauderdale
Battle those winter blues with a bluegrass performance from an NC-native musician sure to hit all the right notes. ncmuseumofhistory.org
12/9
The Uproar Holiday Special
Ho-ho-ho your way through this festive Triangle Sketch Comedy show in which local comedians will tackle the comical chaos of the holly jolly season at Theatre Raleigh and ComedyWorx. eventbrite.com
12/9–10
Jolly Raleigh Holiday Market
Let’s have a holly jolly time in Raleigh (!) Celebrate Christmas at Raleigh Iron Works while you sip on custom festive bevs and check off the rest of your list with handcrafted treasures, artisanal treats and unique gifts. facebook.com
12/9–17
Elf the Musical
“Elves love to tell stories. I bet you didn’t know that about elves.” … No-Buddy is gonna wanna miss NC Theatre’s rendition of this feel-good Christmas classic about our fave orphaned elf’s journey to find his fam—and the true meaning of Christmas, of course. Time to embrace your inner elf! martinmariettacenter.com
12/9–17
Santa in the Village
“Santa! I know him.” Say hi to the jolly ole elf himself in the Village District by Tiff’s Treats (natch) for a photo op and a sprinkle of holiday magic. Ho, ho, ho! shopvillagedistrict.com
12/10
Holiday Artist Market
Sip on a holiday drink and browse gifts from local artisans at this festive market perf for getting all your Christmas shopping done. Jingle all the way! theatreraleigh.com
12/10
NC Eat & Play’s S’mores & Hot Chocolate Festival
Beat that seasonal depression with chocolatey bites and bevs! Toast your own marshmallows over the fire and pair with a warm mug of hot cocoa before browsing the works of local vendors. Also enjoy food trucks, a bounce house, games, hay rides, and more! nceatandplay.com
12/10
Trunkshow Vintage Winter Market
Gifting second hand swag is in! Shop vintage clothing, furniture and decor while warming up with a festive beverage. Wrap up your excursion via the gift-wrapping station. … Procrastinating until Christmas Eve, who?! trunkshowraleigh.com
12/10
RedBud Winter Gala & Fundraiser
Support your local creative writing nonprofit by doning your best attire and immersing yourself in an evening of literary magic—think food, drinks, music and a writing showcase featuring the work of five students. Write this way! redbudwriting.org
12/10
Santa on the Rooftop
Up on the rooftop… Bring your camera and your holiday wishes—because Santa’s here (!). Snap a holiday photo with a backdrop of the Raleigh skyline while enjoying hot chocolate or a beverage from the bar. thewillardraleigh.com
12/11
Willard Wine Dinner with Copper Cane Wines
Join fifth gen winemaker Joe Wagner of Napa Valley-based Copper Cane Wine & Provisions for an immersive dining experience with food pairings by The Willard’s chef Kyle Teears. How sip-sational! opentable.com
12/13
Trans-Siberian Orchestra
Sleigh what?! TSO’s hauntingly electric holiday tour is back with the best of TSO and more— promising to leave you absolutely amped. pncarena.com
by Raleigh Magazine | Nov 29, 2023 | Do, November 2023
Through 12/23
The Dessertery
It’s beginning to taste a lot like Christmas… especially at Martin Marietta’s all-you-can-eat seasonal sweets cafe. And calories don’t count during the holidays, so be sure to treat your elf! martinmariettacenter.com
Through 1/7
Dutch Art in a Global Age
Talk about going global. Take in myriad masterpieces from the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston that explore the crossways between art, commercial networks and Colonial expansion. ncartmuseum.org
Through 1/14
NC Chinese Lantern Festival
The fan-fave fest promises to be *lit* again this year thanks to 40+ new awe-inspiring Chinese lantern displays—plus captivating cultural performances nightly. Glow on! boothamphitheatre.com
Through 1/15
The Rink Presented by UNC Health
Ice, ice baby. Figure-eight your way into the holidays with the return of Raleigh’s festive Rockefeller-esque ice skating rink at Red Hat. redhatamphitheater.com
Through 3/31
Igloos at Unscripted
Just chillin’? Roll up to your own personal igloo experience filled with a pre-set food menu and an immaculate winter wonderland vibe (plus wine pairings and bevs available for purchase). How festive! opentable.com
11/30
Better Days Live Music Series
Better days are ahead with live beats from Robby Peoples of Nashville, J Candeed of Raleigh and Clay Conner of Durham. Make sure to grab a burger from Hightop Burger and drink from the Hartwell Bar before jamming out to some local tunes. facebook.com
11/30
Holiday Open House
“Cheer up, dude. It’s Christmas.” … Channel the cheer of the time of year at Village District’s holiday soiree feat. Santa, hot cocoa and carolers. It’s sure to be jolly! shopvillagedistrict.com
11/30
Small Art Show at Ursipany
Stop by Ursipany’s first annual holiday show to peep small works by 15 local artists and meet the artists themselves. And don’t forget to grab a drink to sip on while taking it all in. facebook.com
11/30
Taco Bamba Mezcal Tastings
Time to get smoky. Belly up to Taco Bamba for a taste of its new liquor—created in collaboration with esteemed mezcaleros of Rey Campero, a traditional mezcal distillery in Oaxaca, Mexico—feat. notes of roasted pineapple and a nice citrus finish. Cheers! tacobamba.com
12/1
First Friday Market & Free Movie Night by Popup Carolinas
Moore Square movie night is back, back again! Find food trucks, free games and live entertainment—plus, check off your Christmas list at the market and enjoy a showing of the holiday classic Home Alone. It’s a win-win-win-win! popupcarolinas.com
12/1–17
Cinderella
If the shoe fits… wear it to see the fairy tale magic of Cinderella dancing the night away. Just be sure to make it home before midnight! raleighlittletheatre.org
12/2
A Gift to Cary Celebration
Park yourself at Downtown Cary Park for a full-day affair featuring photos with Santa, ice skating, arts and crafts, snowball fights and *snow* much more. What better way to sleigh the holiday season?! downtowncarypark.com
12/2
Canes vs. Buffalo Sabres
Blowin’ em back to Buffalo with an L. nhl.com
12/2
Great Garner Chicken Bog
What’s a chicken bog you ask? A Southeastern NC one-dish meal made of chicken, sausage and rice—and during this bogged-down event (get it?!) there will be 90 gallons of it created by the team at Carolina Cooker (!). Sample a free bowl, plus enjoy a cooking demo, steamed oysters, hot cocoa, desserts and more. Talk about a scrumptious soiree! facebook.com
12/2
The Nutcracker
Balletcore is in! Bound, leap and plié into the holiday season via this classic Christmas performance. Where else will you be able to experience the thrill of a dancing mouse king? caryballetcompany.org
12/2
Threads Fashion Gala 2023
Ready for the ultimate fashion extravaganza? Roll up to CAM Raleigh for Wilson College of Textiles seniors’ bash highlighting the fashion and arts industry. Strut like you mean it… eventbrite.com
12/2
Rail & Stile Holiday Open House
Made your list and checked it twice? Cross it off with gifts from local artists Denise Hughes, Nan Jones, Cassie Adams and Jenny Fassino—NTM sip pomegranate mimosas, hot apple cider and coffee. Talk about shopping motivation! therailandstile.com
12/2
Scandinavian Christmas Fair
Everything’s coming up Scandinavian—from style selects to Christmas festivities. Ring in the holidays Danish-, Finnish- and Icelandic-style at the NC State Fairgrounds. scanfair.org
12/2
Shifting Bodies
Take in these extraordinary painted figures gracing Historic Oakwood for one night and one night only, and explore what emotions look like and how we interact with them. bleedingartstudio.com
12/2
Vintage Holiday Market
Christmas will be here before you know it. Cross all the vintage and secondhand apparel lovers in your life off your list while sipping on a seasonal drink and vibing to tunes provided by DJ King Akira. @stateofbeernc
12/3
Boylan Heights ArtWalk
Stop arting around! This renowned walk is back for its 31st run—just in time for you to pick up the perfect gift from a slew of local vendors. Think glasswork, jewelry, metalwork, woodwork, fiber art, clay and ceramics and more. Happy shopping! boylanheights.org
12/3
Holiday Artist Market
No need to step foot in any overrated mall or understocked department store this holiday season. Check everyone off your list from this line-up of local vendors offering the perfect something for all. theatreraleigh.com
12/4 & 5
Feast of Seven Fishes
’Tis the season. Up the festive factor with this feast of seven fishes as part of Heights House Supper Club. It’s giving The Bear, but without Carmy’s mama drama. heightshousenc.com
12/5
Catalyst: A Concert Event Supporting Affordable Housing
Jam out with talented local musicians while supporting affordable and accessible housing in Raleigh, then round the night out with special presentations by Maggie Kane of A Place at the Table and Lorena McDowell, Wake County’s affordable housing director. Be the catalyst for change! eventbrite.com
12/5
Holiday Cookie Decorating Class
The only thing better than decorating the tree is decorating cookies! Learn to sprinkle and frost with showstopping decorators Darlin’ Designs Baking Co.—with a glass of sparkling wine in hand. Happy decorating! peckandplume.com
12/5
Repeal Day
Get ready to party Gatsby style! Dust off your flapper gear and celebrate the end of Prohibition during Dram’s annual Repeal Day party at all locations. There’ll be all-day drink specials (naturally), music from the 1920s and ’30s, a costume contest, and a group photo. dramanddraught.com
12/6
NCMA Matinee: The Red Shoes
Witness a “dancing, singing, swinging love tale” following an aspiring dancer forced to choose between her love of dance and her desire to, well, love. ncartmuseum.org
12/6–10
Disney on Ice: Magic in the Stars
“The cold never bothered me anyway.” … Observe your fave Disney characters on ice making magical moves via figure skating, acrobatic performances and stunts, special effects, compelling costumes, and more. pncarena.com
by Raleigh Magazine | Nov 15, 2023 | Do, November 2023
Through 3/24
Anna Valdez: Bird’s Eye View
Bird is the word! Ponder the vibrant natural world via this colorful exhibit touched by every medium—from bones to stuffed mammals to milk crates to rugs. camraleigh.org
11/16
2023 Turkey Ball
Gobble till you wobble via Mulino’s annual Thanksgiving dinner featuring passed hors d’oeuvres of Italian favorites, with your $45 ticket purchase providing a turkey to someone who may not normally have one for the holiday. Talk about having a ball! mulinoraleigh.com
11/16
Designed For Joy’s Christmas Sip and Shop
No better way to do your Christmas shopping than with a glass of wine in hand (!). Sip and shop selects from Oliver Sadie Clay, Gaia’s Closet, Blackology Coffee and more. designedforjoy.com
11/16
Fall Dance Concert
Enjoy all the fall things! Watch the Panoramic Dance Project and the State Dance Company sway the night away with fall performances choreographed by guest artists and students alike. calendar.ncsu.edu
11/16–19
Vivaldi’s Four Seasons
See the seasons dance before your eyes at this on-pointe ballet performance backdropped by the poetic music of composer Shinji Eshima. martinmariettacenter.com
Starting 11/17
The Dessertery
It’s beginning to taste a lot like Christmas… especially at Martin Marietta’s all-you-can-eat seasonal sweets cafe. And calories don’t count during the holidays, so be sure to treat your elf! martinmariettacenter.com
Starting 11/17
NC Chinese Lantern Festival
The fan-fave fest promises to be *lit* again this year thanks to 40+ new awe-inspiring Chinese lantern displays, plus captivating cultural performances nightly. Glow on! boothamphitheatre.com
11/17
DRA Tree Lighting
Kick off the spirited season in DTR with holiday entertainment, local vendors, delicious food and drinks, and photo ops with Santa himself. downtownraleigh.org
11/17–18
An American in Paris
Romanticize being a tourist in the City of Love at this two-night symphony spectacular. That’s amour, indeed! ncsymphony.org
11/17–19
Rise Against Hunger’s 25th Anniversary Event
Rise against food insecurity by working a meal-packaging shift of meal packaging at the Raleigh warehouse, complete with fun, games and fellowship. Short on time? Make a donation instead—every dollar counts! salesforce-sites.com
11/17–19
Treasures of the Earth Gem, Mineral & Jewelry Show
For plans that totally rock, ogle an abundance of estate, classic, handcrafted and fashion jewelry made from several different crystals, minerals and fossils. ncstatefair.org
Starting 11/18
The Rink presented by UNC Health
Ice, ice baby. Figure-eight your way into the holidays with the return of Raleigh’s festive Rockefeller-esque ice skating rink at Red Hat, with nonprofit partnerships on rotating throughout its run this winter. redhatamphitheater.com
11/18
28th Annual American Indian Heritage Celebration
Dive into NC Indigenous people’s past via a virtual education presentation—and explore their accomplishments in science, art and culture. ncmuseumofhistory.org
11/18
79th Raleigh Christmas Parade
Post up on your couch or on the curb for the return of the Raleigh Christmas Parade—the largest between DC and Atlanta—with nonmotorized floats feat. marching bands, performers, costume characters, horses, dog rescues, giant balloons, musical acts and more. grma.org
11/18
Adoptions Information Fair
Looking to add a new smiling face to your family? Get all the information you need at Wake County’s adoption fair this weekend. How pawsome. wake.gov
11/18
Art Bash
Let’s get this party arted. Join art collectors, studio artists, makers and visionaries for a special evening boasting private and live collecting opportunities; bites; live music; and art experiences including Carolina Roots, which highlights rural artists of NC. artspacenc.org
11/18
Busy Vintage Pop-Up at Raleigh Iron Works
Calling all the thrifty gals and guys! Get your vintage shopping on as you sip mimosas and browse the wares of 80+ local artists and vendors. trianglepopup.com
11/18
Cocktail Classic
Get a taste from our 10 Best Bartender nominees at Killjoy as they each pair up with a premium liquor label to mix up riffs on classics against a boujee backdrop of endless eats and beats. Yes, “cocktails & dreams” do come true. … See you there! cocktailclassicraleigh.com
11/18
The Dinner Detective Interactive Murder Mystery Show
A classic who dunnit! Feast on a delicious dinner and help solve a horrific crime at America’s largest interactive comedy mystery show. But be careful… you might just be the prime suspect. thedinnerdetective.com
11/18
Dix Park History Hike
These shoes were made for walking—while exploring Dix Park’s complex layered history surrounding themes like indigenous land/displacement, slavery and unpaid labor, mental health, rehabilitation/recovery, and ecological imbalance. dixpark.org
11/18
Lighting of the Tree
Let there be light! Switch on the holiday spirit via this annual tree-lighting ceremony also feat. live music, horse and carriage rides, face painting, and meet and greet ops with Mr. and Mrs. Claus. lafayettevillageraleigh.com
11/18
Light the Square
It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas in Fenton via its first annual tree lighting ceremony, complete with carriage rides, performances, ice skating, a laser light show, delicious drinks and an appearance from the jolly ’ole man himself. … And it promises to be lit. fentonnc.com
11/18
North Hills Tree Lighting
Christmas is calling. … Fuel the warm and fuzzies with live tunes, kids activities, food truck fare and a vendor village. #Sleigh! visitnorthhills.com
11/18
6th Annual Oyster Roast
Don’t be so clammy! With live music and smoked, steamed and raw eats via Ghost Fleet Oyster Co., this roast is sure to be a shucking good time. carolinabrewery.com
11/18
Roshambo Holiday Market
Christmas shop till you drop with a festive cocktail in hand and live holiday music amplifying the atmosphere at this market immediately following the Christmas parade. Your presents is requested! transfercofoodhall.com
11/18
Skyzoo
This American rapper and songwriter has ghostwritten songs for some of the biggest names in hip-hop—and will have you on cloud nine with his own rich discography. etix.com
11/19
Candle Making
The urge to sit candlelight at 5pm has never been greater… so fulfill that desire with this popular candle-making class that emphasizes storytelling and personal connection. Sounds lit. copperlineplants.com
11/19
Sunday Night Smoke Out
No Sunday scaries here! All are welcome at this service industry shindig that promises Latin American munchies, margs, cervezas and black sesame horchata. @malapata.molino
Opening 11/22
Wool E. Bull’s Winter Wonderland
Nights of Lights may be no more, but now you can hit Christmas outta the park with a walk through a festive winter wonderland at Durham Bulls Athletic Park. Catch ya there! milb.com
