Raleigh Holiday Activities: Lights, Festivals & Winter Fun

As the temperatures cool and the holiday magic starts to sparkle across the Triangle, the Raleigh area transforms into a winter wonderland of festive fun. Whether you’re looking for twinkling lights, holiday markets, Santa photo ops, or cozy small-town celebrations, there’s always something for everyone! From Raleigh to towns like Cary, Apex, Clayton, Holly Springs, and Fuquay-Varina. We’ve compiled a list of the best holiday events to help you make magical memories all season long.

Grab your hot cocoa, curl up under your coziest blanket at home, and let’s dive into your ultimate guide to Raleigh holiday activities!

 

North Carolina Chinese Lantern Festival – Raleigh

If you’re looking for one of the most breathtaking holiday activities in the Raleigh area, the Chinese Lantern Festival at Koka Booth Amphitheatre is a must-see. Thousands of glowing handcrafted lanterns light up the night, creating the perfect backdrop for a magical evening stroll.

What to expect:
– Larger than life lantern displays
– Live cultural performances
– Interactive glowing tunnels
– Stunning photo opportunities everywhere

Date & Time:
December 21st at 2pm

Image By: Visit Raleigh Insider

 

Handcrafted Holiday Market – Raleigh

Don’t miss the biggest holiday market yet at the NC State Fairgrounds! You can shop from over 200 local makers, enjoy live music and delicious food from a variety of food trucks, and even meet Santa. It’s a festive way to get into the holiday spirit and find unique gifts for everyone on your Christmas list!

What to expect:
– Unique gifts and crafts
– Live music 
– Delicious food with plenty of options
– Chance to meet Santa

Date & Time:
December 20th at 10am & December 21st at 3pm

Lights on the Neuse – Clayton

Just outside of Raleigh, Lights on the Neuse offers a charming farm-style holiday experience. Hop aboard the Christmas hayride, sip hot chocolate, and enjoy the peaceful glow of holiday decorations on the farm.

What to expect:
– Tractor-pulled Christmas hayride
– Santa’s workshop
– Country store with seasonal treats
– Cozy farm photo ops

Date & Time:
November 28th – December 27th. Hours listed online!

Image By: Johnston County

The Nutcracker – Fuquay Varina

The Fuquay-Varina Arts Center is excited to bring back its annual production of The Nutcracker. Inspired by E.T.A. Hoffman’s classic tale The Nutcracker and the Mouse King, this beloved show puts a fresh, creative spin on the story each year, making it a local favorite. It’s the perfect holiday outing for families a chance to slow down, enjoy beautiful music and dance, and make a little seasonal magic together.

What to expect:
– A fresh take on a classic 
– Family-friendly atmosphere 
– Beautiful choreography
– Great local outing

Date & Time:
December 12th – December 14th. Hours listed online!

Happy Holly Days Parade, Holly Springs

Watch Main Street come alive as colorful floats, lively bands, dancers, decorated vehicles, and local groups parade through downtown Holly Springs. It’s a heartwarming tradition that fills the town with joy a sweet way to start the season with the ones who matter most.

What to expect:
– Festive floats
– Marching bands
– Decorative vehicles
– Small town holiday charm

Date & Time:
December 13th at 10am

Image By: Hollys Spring Parks and Recreation 

Bonus Picks Across the Triangle

🎄 Lake Myra Christmas Lights (Wendell) – Nov 26th – Dec 31st
One of the largest synchronized light shows in NC perfect way to get into the Christmas spirit!

🎄European Christmas Market (Raleigh) – Dec 12th – Dec 13th
Experience the European Market and Vendor Village, enjoy delicious Slavic foods to eat or take home, catch lively entertainment, and meet the REAL St. Nicholas!

🎄 2025 Cary Christmas Parade (Cary) – Dec 13th
The Cary Jaycees Christmas Parade is a joyful celebration featuring bands, mascots, local businesses, community groups, and more!

🎄Fable Holiday Market (Holly Springs) – Dec 20th – 21st 
A cozy town celebration with local vendors, festive lights, and live music. Perfect for a small-town stroll with the family or a photo by the sparkling tree in the town square.

🎄 Meet Santa and His Reingoats! (Fuquay-Varina) – Dec 13th
Check out Santa’s reingoats Mishka, Jesse James, and Humphrey! Snap a photo with them, and shop the Sanctuary Santa’s Workshop plus other vendors at the Holiday Sip N’ Shop Market at the Fainting Goat for a fun-filled time!

Tips for the Perfect Holiday Day Out

• Go in the evening for the best light shows
• Dress warm since NC gets chilly after sunset
• Bring cash for vendors, cocoa stands, and markets
• Pack your camera because the holiday photo ops are endless
• Check event websites for ticket info and opening nights

 

Wrapping It Up

Raleigh’s and nearby towns holiday activities bring pure magic to the season. Whether you’re wandering through the glowing lanterns in Cary, sipping cocoa at a farm in Clayton, strolling through Holly Springs or Fuquay-Varina, or watching the Christmas Parade in Downtown Raleigh, there’s something unforgettable for every age.

So grab your scarf, gather your loved ones, and let the holiday spirit guide your next memory-making adventure across the Triangle. Lastly, if you have any questions about these towns or are curious about living in one of them feel free to reach out! We’d love to help you make the most of the season here in our community!

See you at the next blog,
XO Jacie & Co