Celebrating the Holidays in Downtown Raleigh
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 January.
Planning some at-home holiday festivities? Pick up all the necessary bubbly and brews from Downtown Raleigh wine/bottle shops.
If you have something to add, email communications@downtownraleigh.org
THE RINK
November 18th - January 15th, 2023
Come enjoy the thrill of ice skating in a winter wonderland created in the heart of Downtown Raleigh! THE RINK features a natural ice skating rink with stunning views of the Raleigh skyline. Activities and amenities include: fire pits, 20ft decorated Christmas Tree, Snack bar with hot cocoa, beer, wine and sweet treats, games and more. Tickets required.
Downtown Raleigh Christmas Tree
The Downtown Raleigh Christmas Tree stands tall and shines brightly in Lichtin Plaza 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!
3rd Annual Not-So-Silent Night
December 21st, 2023
Looking for a free event? Deck the halls at Longleaf Hotel with seasonal beverages, festive decor, and joyous vibes featuring holiday music and more.
The Dessertery
November 17th - December 23rd, 2023
Indulge yourself in a family friendly holiday themed dessert café. The Dessertery features elaborate holiday decor, all you can eat sweets + hot cocoa, and live entertainment on select nights!
WRAL First Night Raleigh
December 31st, 2023
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.
321 Coffee’s Noon Year’s Eve Celebration
December 31, 2023
Come celebrate the New Year with 321 Coffee as they ring in 2024 in their shops at noon! Build your own delicious hot chocolate from our decadent bar of toppings, and enjoy it in a 321 Coffee mug that you get to take home with you. In addition to their hot chocolate bar, they’ll have cookies, coloring pages, 2024 headbands, and plenty of festive family fun as we all countdown to the New Year.
NYE Grand Opening Party at Umbrella Dry Bar
December 31, 2023
Step into the grand opening of Umbrella Dry Bar this New Year's Eve, with a themed "This Is Just The Beginning" party! Revel in the festivities with Umbrella's array of non-alcoholic cocktails, wine, and beer that promise to make you feel fully included in a spectacular New Year's evening without alcohol.
Centro & Gallo Pelón’s New Year’s Eve Dance Party
December 31, 2023
Take part in traditional Colombian New Year’s traditions while eating and dancing the night away to popular, local Latin band Tumbao.
New Year's Eve at The Willard
December 31st, 2023
Ring in 2024 with spectacular views of the downtown Raleigh fireworks. The Willard Rooftop Lounge will host their third annual New Year’s Eve bash with a American-inspired buffet, two full cash bars, live music and dance floor with Peter Lamb & the Wolves, party favors, and a champagne toast at midnight.
New Year's Eve at Young Hearts Distilling
December 31st, 2023
Celebrate NYE at Downtown Raleigh's only distillery, Young Hearts! Enjoy a vast selection of curated spirits made in house and multiple fresh farm to table food stations. They will be featuring live entertainment as well as an open dance floor on our mezzanine lounge.
New Year's Eve Party at Whiskey Kitchen
December 31st, 2023
Kick off the New Year with a night full of dancing, party favors, bubbly, and great memories! Dance the night away with all your friends to the hottest beats played by their talented DJs. Indulge in delicious food and sip on your favorite cocktails as they countdown to midnight.