Make your December unforgettable with these Triangle-area holiday events (updated for 2024)

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Whether you’re new to the Triangle or looking for something new to do with your time, one thing to know is that Raleigh-Durham is home to some of the most incredible holiday events you can find. Whether you’re someone young who’s looking for fun nightlife, a family with kids who are ready with a list to meet Santa, or a couple wanting an unforgettable date night, there’s something for everyone here.

This list of events across the Triangle are just a few of the ideas that will help you celebrate this season.

The Dessertery  |  Duke Energy Center for the Performing Arts, 2 East South Street, Raleigh

When: Now through Dec. 23, Seating includes time slots from 11:30 a.m.-8:30 p.m.

Hungry for something a little different this holiday season? The Dessertery, located at the back of the Duke Energy Center, is a holiday-themed dessert café that offers all-you-can-eat sweets like macaroons, cupcakes, cheesecakes, cakes, and hot chocolate. They even have gluten-free, nut-free, and vegan items available. Plus, enjoy holiday decor, visits with Santa, and live music. Tickets are $29 for ages 7 and up and $15 for ages 2-6. 

St. Nick’s Raleigh Jolly Pop-up House  |  306 East Hargett Street, Raleigh

When: Now through Christmas Eve

St. Nick’s Raleigh Jolly Pop-up House is a Christmas experience like no other. Located in a historic house across from Moore Square in downtown Raleigh, this Christmas-themed pop-up features holiday decor, drinks, music, and a photobooth for even more fun. Admission is $10.

Miracle at The Haymaker | 555 Fayetteville Street #115, Raleigh

When: Now through Dec. 31

Miracle is a pop-up cocktail bar decked out with kitschy holiday decor, just in time for Christmas. Enjoy a set of holiday-themed cocktails from The Haymaker’s bartender Taylor Sullivan, you’ll love the energy found in this setting. To skip the line, pre-purchase fast pass tickets.

Marbles Gingerbread Jamboree  |  201 East Hargett Street, Raleigh

When: December 14 and 15, 9:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m., 3:30 p.m.

Enjoy making a sweet treat you can take home at Marbles in downtown Raleigh. This special event provides the opportunity for families to make keepsake—and delicious—gingerbread houses. Pricing is $18 per person for members and $20 per person for non-members. Each table can seat up to 6.

Raleigh Ringers Holiday Concerts  |  2 E. South Street, Raleigh

When: December 14 and 15, 4-6 p.m.

Ring in the holidays—or watch them be rung in—with the help of the Raleigh Ringers. This group of professional handbell performers is holding their annual holiday concerts at the Duke Energy Center for the Performing Arts. Enjoy a unique set of music, including sacred, secular, and even a bit of pop music that will have you officially ready for Christmas. Tickets are $28 for adults, $23 for seniors, $20 for groups of 10 or more, and $15 for students.

Carolina Ballet presents The Nutcracker  |  3401-131 Atlantic Avenue, Raleigh    

When: Now through December 24, Matinee and evening performances are available, check website for specific dates and timesNothing is more iconic during the holidays than The Nutcracker. Join Carolina Ballet’s take on this classic tale, which features the music of Tchaikovsky from a live symphony orchestra. It’s one of the most beloved holiday events you can attend. Check Ticketmaster for pricing details.

Durham Holiday Parade |  Downtown Durham

When: Saturday, December 14, 10 a.m.

Durham’s holiday parade gives you a chance to watch hometown bands and drill teams, community groups, and even Santa Claus make their way down Durham’s Main Street. The parade begins at 10 a.m. Bring a chair or blanket to sit and watch the parade.

Hanukkah Menorah Lighting  |  101 Dry Ave, Cary

When: Monday, December 30, 5:30 p.m.

Celebrate the second day of Hanukkah with the lighting of the new menorah outside of the Cary Arts Center. The Town of Cary is partnering with the Beth Shalom congregation, Jewish Federation of Raleigh-Cary, and Chabad of Cary for this event. Enjoy treats, holiday music, and events for kids. The event is free to the public.

2022 Kwanzaa Celebration  |  101 Dry Ave, Cary

When: Friday, December 30, 12-5 p.m.

Explore the seven principles of Kwanzaa at this annual celebration, hosted by the Town of Cary and the Ujima Group. Kwanzaa, which is derived from African heritage, gives African-Americans an opportunity to celebrate their achievements and enter the new year refreshed. The event will include a vendor market and children’s village as well as dance performances and a drumming demonstration. The event is free to the public.

North Carolina Chinese Lantern Festival-Cary  |  Koka Booth Amphitheatre, 8003 Regency Parkway, Cary

When: Now through January 12, Monday through Sunday from 4-9 p.m.

One of the most memorable holiday events in the Triangle is the North Carolina Chinese Lantern Festival — a beautiful showcase of Chinese culture. Larger-than-life lanterns and displays made from thousands of LED lights brighten the nighttime skies during this one-hour walking tour. Each night at 7, 8, and 9 p.m., performances from martial artists, dancers, acrobats, and drummers will delight visitors. Tickets span from $15 to $36. Check the website for details. Kids 2 and under are free.

The Great Raleigh Trolley Holiday Tours  |  1610 Automotive Way, Raleigh

When: Now through December 23, Check website for specific times

The Santa Express is rolling through Downtown Raleigh this holiday season and it’s one of the Triangle area’s perfect holiday events for toddlers and grade school kids who are just dying to meet Santa. Before you board the trolley and take a ride into the city, Santa himself will get pictures taken with your kids and they’ll be able to share their Christmas wish list with him. You’ll even have professional photos taken while enjoying refreshments, music, lights, and more. The experience lasts about 60 minutes and tickets are $42 each.

Skate the Square at Fenton  |  21 Fenton Main St., Cary

When: Now through February 9, 2025, Monday-Thursday from 3-9 p.m., Friday from 3-10 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m.-10 p.m., Sunday from 11-8 p.m.

Cary’s hottest new district, Fenton, is open this winter for an extra bit of holiday cheer. Fenton’s outdoor skating rink will be your favorite new holiday tradition. Admission is $18 for 75 minutes of skating time and skate rental is included in the admission price. 

Magic of Lights  |  1012 Holt Road, Apex

When: Now through December 26, Check website for specific times

The Holt Road Christmas Lights is an Apex family tradition that’s grown in massive popularity. They decorate their private home to bring Christmas joy to the Triangle. Proceeds go toward helping displaced war refugees from conflicts around the world as well as to help local animal rescue shelters. Cost is $20 per vehicle.