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 New Years.
If you have something to add, email communications@downtownraleigh.org
THE RINK
Saturday, November 23rd - January 20th, 2025
Come enjoy the thrill of ice skating in a winter wonderland created in the heart of Downtown Raleigh! THE RINK inside Red Hat Amphitheater features a natural ice skating rink with stunning views of the Raleigh skyline. Activities and amenities include: fire pits, igloo lounges, a 20ft decorated Christmas Tree, snack bar with refreshments, games, and more. Tickets required.
The Polar Express 3D
Wednesday November 27th – Sunday, December 29th
The annual Marbles IMAX holiday tradition is back! Get your tickets to see The Polar Express in IMAX 3D for those colder evenings when you want to stay indoors.
The Dessertery
Friday, November 22nd - Monday, December 23rd
Indulge yourself in a family friendly holiday themed dessert café. The Dessertery, located within the Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts, features elaborate holiday decor, all you can eat sweets + hot cocoa, and live entertainment on select nights.
Illuminate Art Walk
Friday, December 6th (December First Friday) - Monday, January 6th
Downtown Raleigh comes to light every holiday season with Illuminate Art Walk presented by Wake Tech! Since December 2020, Illuminate Art Walk has transformed downtown into a wonderland of art and light—fun for people of all ages.
Downtown Raleigh Christmas Tree
Up Through New Years
The Downtown Raleigh Christmas Tree stands tall and shines brightly 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!
Annual Menorah Lighting Ceremony
Tuesday, December 31st
Join Chabad Young Professionals at 6pm in front of Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts to celebrate the festival of lights with a beautiful Menorah lighting ceremony.
New Year's Eve at High Rail
Tuesday, December 31st
High Rail, Raleigh’s newest rooftop bar set atop Hyatt House Raleigh Downtown / Seaboard Station, is hosting its first-ever New Year’s Eve celebration - and it’s sure to be a night to remember! From 8 p.m. to 12:30 a.m., attendees are invited to enjoy a night of luxury, live jazz provided by Jazz Plus Trio and unforgettable memories as they ring in 2025.
New Year's Eve Dinner Party
Tuesday, December 31st
Get ready to pop the confetti and toast to new beginnings! Heirloom is absolutely thrilled to invite you to a spectacular dinner service on New Year’s Eve! Join them for a magical evening filled with mouth-watering delights and fantastic company as we wave goodbye to the old year and welcome the shiny new one.
New Year's Eve Masquerade 2025
Tuesday, December 31st
Please join The London Bridge Pub for a night of intrigue and an all-inclusive event in downtown this New Year's Eve. It's Masquerade themed so don't forget your masks and costumes!
Noon Year's Eve
Tuesday, December 31st
Celebrate the New Year with crafts, games, music and a special bubble wrap pop at Marbles Kids Museum. Count down together as the ball drops at noon!
Caviar & Champagne - Pre-Midnight New Years Eve Celebration
Tuesday, December 31st
This New Year’s Eve, the Heights House Hotel invites you to kick off your celebrations with an elegant evening featuring Grower Champagne paired with exquisite caviar. Additional activities outside of ticket price include tarot readings, permanent jewelry, and the full Parlor bar available for purchase.
New Year's Eve 4-Course Chef Dinner
Tuesday, December 31st
Ring in 2025 with an unforgettable evening at Figulina! Chef David Ellis has created a special 4-course menu showcasing seasonal and luxurious ingredients, while the wine director, Jeff Bramwell, has hand selected optional wine pairings to complement each dish and elevate the experience.
Family-Friendly New Year's Eve
Tuesday, December 31st
Join 10th & Terrace for a breathtaking early fireworks display viewed from the private terrace, offering the perfect spot to take in the dazzling show. Enjoy a delicious buffet featuring a variety of dishes to suit all ages and tastes. This event is designed to bring families together in a fun and festive atmosphere, so you can ring in the New Year without staying up past bedtime!
New Year's Eve Party at Slim's Dive Bar
Tuesday, December 31st
Kick-start 2025 with live music from Dallas Tetnus, The BQ’s, and Richard Bacchus. Stick around until midnight for a celebratory shot of Malört!
New Year's Eve Party at Whiskey Kitchen
Tuesday, December 31st
Celebrate the New Year with Whiskey Kitchen in Downtown Raleigh during a night full of dancing, party favors, bubbly, and great memories! Indulge in delicious food and sip on your favorite cocktails as they countdown to midnight.
WRAL First Night Raleigh
Tuesday, December 31st
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.