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
17th Annual Raleigh Tree Lighting and Holiday Market | Moore Square
Friday, November 21st
Watch as the Christmas Tree shines cheer across the city, capture free photos with Santa Claus, shop for presents at the local vendor market, sing along to performances by local artists, and so much more.
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.
The Nutcracker | Carolina Ballet
Thursday, December 11th – Wednesday, December 24th
Discover the wonder of the holiday season at Carolina Ballet’s enchanting production of the iconic Christmas story: The Nutcracker. This production marries the charm of the original show with fresh choreography, vibrant sets, and stunning costumes.
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.
Annual Menorah Lighting Ceremony | Moore Square
Tuesday, December 16th
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.
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).
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.