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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.

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If you have something to add, email communications@downtownraleigh.org

THE RINK | Red Hat Amphitheater

Saturday, November 22nd – January 4th, 2026

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.

 

Winter Market | Red Bird

Saturday, November 22nd

After the Raleigh Christmas Parade, explore a festive lineup of local vendors from across the Triangle offering everything from handmade goods to seasonal treats.

 

Raleigh Christmas Parade | Hillsborough & Fayetteville Streets

Saturday, November 22nd

You won’t want to miss the pageantry and excitement of the 2025 ABC11 Raleigh Christmas Parade on November 22nd, 2025 in Downtown Raleigh! The parade will kick off the holiday festivities at 9:30am.

 

Small Business Saturday | Downtown Raleigh

Saturday, November 29th

Celebrate downtown's many independent retailers by getting out to shop on Small Business Saturday! Some downtown businesses will offer deals, put out exclusive products, or host special events, so take advantage of this opportunity to get your gift-shopping done early—while giving back to the community at the same time.
 

Illuminate Art Walk | Fayetteville Street 

Friday, December 5th (December First Friday) – Tuesday, January 6th

Downtown Raleigh comes to light every holiday season with Illuminate Art Walk presented by Cooperating Raleigh Colleges! Since December 2020, Illuminate Art Walk has transformed downtown into a wonderland of art and light—fun for people of all ages.

 

Make & Take a Raleigh Acorn Bell | Designed for Joy

Friday, December 5th

Drop-in at the Designed For Joy studio to create your very own Raleigh Acorn Bell—a festive keepsake (or gift) that symbolizes our "City of Oaks."

 

Handel’s Messiah with the North Carolina Symphony & NC Master Chorale | Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts

Friday, December 5th – Saturday, December 6th

Handel's stunning masterpiece performed live with the North Carolina Symphony, the North Carolina Master Chorale, and soloists to celebrate the season with passion and beauty, including the “Hallelujah” chorus.

 

A Christmas Carol | Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts

Friday, December 5th – Sunday, December 7th

A musical comedy adaptation of the Dickens classic. The show has been performed annually since 1974 and was named one of the "Top 20 Events in the Southeast." Cited as "one of the most successful shows in North Carolina theatre history," A Christmas Carol has enjoyed critically acclaimed tours to England and France.

 

Gingerbread Old Fashioned Class | Crude Bitters & The Bittery 

Thursday, December 11th

Learn how to make a seasonal Old Fashioned using Yes Cocktail Gingerbread syrup and tour the The Bittery/Crude Bitters HQ. 

 

Moore Square Winterfaire | Moore Square

Thursday, December 11th – Sunday, December 14th 

From December 11th-14th, Moore Square will transform into a festive destination filled with local makers and artisans, delicious food trucks, a cozy beer garden, live music and performances, holiday crafts, games, and a visit from Santa himself.

 

Holiday Pops with the North Carolina Symphony | Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts 

Friday, December 12th – Saturday, December 13th 

Broadway star Mamie Parris joins the North Carolina Symphony for holiday favorites! From beloved carols to festive pops classics, experience the joy and wonder of the season in this heartwarming concert for the whole family.

 

Brunch with Santa and Mrs. Claus | Red Bird 

Saturday, December 13th 

Come enjoy a festive brunch while posing for photos, enjoying group sing-alongs, and experiencing stories with Santa and Mrs. Claus.

 

Festive Fridays | Dix Park

Fridays, December 5th, 12th, and 19th

Celebrate the season with fun for all ages at Festive Fridays at Dix Park: Holiday Lights (Dec. 5), Reindeer Ride (Dec. 12), and Silent Disco Night (Dec. 19).

 

Downtown Raleigh Christmas Tree | Moore Square

Up through New Years

The Downtown Raleigh Christmas Tree stands tall and shines brightly in the historic Moore Square park. Bring your family for a festive photo op or just marvel at the beauty of Downtown's official Christmas tree.

 

WRAL First Night Raleigh | City Plaza

Wednesday, 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.