Best Holiday Events in Raleigh

Raleigh, N.C., transforms into a festive wonderland between Thanksgiving and New Year's, offering various holiday events. The community comes alive with dazzling lights, traditional celebrations, and unique experiences that capture the spirit of the season. These holiday events in Raleigh cater to diverse interests, providing opportunities for family fun, cultural immersion, and seasonal cheer.

Coming into town this holiday season? Don’t miss some of the best holiday events in Raleigh.

The Raleigh Christmas Parade is a cherished annual tradition, often described as the largest Christmas parade between Atlanta and Washington, D.C. In 2025, this spectacular event is scheduled for Saturday, November 22. It draws nearly 80,000 visitors to the streets of downtown Raleigh, where spectators line the route early in the morning to secure a prime viewing spot.

The parade features a vibrant procession that includes marching bands, elaborate floats created by local businesses, classic cars, dancers, and performers. The parade's highlight is always Santa Claus's appearance, officially marking the start of the holiday season in Raleigh. The approximately 1.4-mile route winds through downtown, beginning near Hillsborough Street and St. Mary’s.

Just a short distance from downtown Raleigh, the North Carolina Chinese Lantern Festival offers a stunning visual spectacle at the Koka Booth Amphitheatre in Cary. This event typically runs from late November through early January. In 2025, twilight sessions are scheduled to begin as early as Wednesday, November 19, and evening sessions start on Sunday, November 30.

The festival features hundreds of illuminated, intricate lanterns, some standing several stories tall and shaped like mythological creatures, animals, or elaborate scenes. These lanterns are handcrafted by artisans and create an immersive, glowing environment. The festival also includes nightly performances and cultural displays, providing a unique and captivating experience celebrating Chinese culture and the holiday season.

The Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Celebration at North Hills Commons, located in the heart of Midtown Raleigh, is a beloved community event. In 2025, this festive gathering is scheduled for Saturday, November 22. It draws thousands of guests for an evening of holiday programs, lively entertainment, and seasonal activities.

The event typically features kids' crafts and a vendor village where attendees can shop for local gifts. The main highlight is the lighting of the 41-foot Christmas Tree, a joyous moment often accompanied by live music and the arrival of Santa Claus. This celebration offers a classic holiday experience, capturing the season's excitement in a lively urban setting.

For those looking to find unique gifts and support local artisans, the Christmas Carousel Holiday Gift Market is a significant destination. Scheduled for Thanksgiving Weekend in 2025 (November 28-30), this market occurs at the NC State Fairgrounds in the expansive Jim Graham Building.

The event features over 250 exhibitors showcasing various goods, including arts, crafts, specialty foods, holiday decorations, and gifts. It is recognized as one of the largest Christmas gift shows in the state, offering a vast selection for holiday shoppers. The market provides a convenient and comprehensive venue for finding unique items and enjoying a festive shopping experience.

The MAKRS Holiday Fest is Raleigh's largest holiday market and festival, typically held in downtown Raleigh's City Plaza. In 2025, this event is scheduled for December 6. It promises a diverse array of entertainment, food, and shopping options. The festival features over 200 vendors, offering local handmade goods, unique crafts, and artisanal products.

The event also includes live music, family activities, special attractions like Santa and Mrs. Claus visits, and even holiday-themed wrestling matches. MAKRS Holiday Fest creates a dynamic and festive atmosphere, supporting local makers and providing engaging entertainment.

The Jolly Raleigh Holiday Market, presented by Shop Local Raleigh, is a special event dedicated to celebrating small businesses during the holiday season. In 2025, this market is scheduled for December 6 at Raleigh Iron Works, a popular mixed-use development known for its vibrant atmosphere.

Attendees can "sip, shop, and celebrate" the season, enjoying local beer and unique gifts. The market provides a perfect opportunity to find local treasures and connect with the community. It focuses on supporting independent entrepreneurs, offering a welcoming environment for holiday shopping, and fostering local commerce.

Pullen Park, a beloved public park in Raleigh, transforms into a magical destination during the Holiday Express event. This festive experience centers around the park's historic carousel and miniature train, which are adorned with thousands of holiday lights.

The event typically includes train rides through a holiday light display, carousel rides, and visits with Santa Claus. Holiday Express requires tickets and is a popular activity for families. The charming decorations, festive music, and special activities create a nostalgic and enchanting holiday atmosphere.

First Night Raleigh is a major community celebration on New Year's Eve in downtown Raleigh. This event is a long-standing tradition that welcomes the new year with a variety of performances, music, and activities.

First Night Raleigh is centered around the arts and culture, offering diverse entertainment options for all ages. The celebration often includes live performances by musicians, dancers, and artists at venues across downtown. At midnight, the night culminates with a spectacular fireworks display and the traditional Raleigh Acorn Drop.

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