We’ve got your weekend lineup, Raleigh! Check out these local things to do to keep you busy this weekend!
Every week, we curate a list of local things to do in and around Raleigh. Our goal is to uplift local businesses and connect you with fun, community-driven experiences.
We prioritize events from our Shop Local Raleigh members, offering you the best local experiences. Want to add your event to our list? Consider becoming a Shop Local Raleigh member or contact us for collaboration opportunities.
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Christmas Vacation at Raleigh Brewing 12/6
Get in the holiday spirit and join Raleigh Brewing for an indoor screening of National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation! They’ll be hosting movie night inside, so don your favorite comfy pajamas and bring your coziest blanket or chair to settle in for the Griswold family’s holiday misadventures! They’ll have popcorn, candy, and plenty of seasonal brews on tap. This event is family-friendly and free to attend, though only those 21+ can enjoy the beers. 7pm More info.Â
A Christmas Carol at Memorial Auditorium 12/6-8
The holiday classic from Theatre in the Park is back for its 51st year! Ira David Wood III’s musical comedy adaptation, A Christmas Carol, returns to The Martin Marietta Center for four performances on December 6 – 8, 2024. Celebrating over 50 years, this Broadway quality production turns the tale of Scrooge into a joyous musical comedy, packed full of spirit, topical humor and show-stopping tunes, while still preserving the poignant heart of the original. Don’t miss this NC Holiday tradition directed by Ira David Wood III and starring Ira David Wood IV as Ebenezer Scrooge. Continue a family tradition or start a new one. Join one of North Carolina’s grandest holiday traditions as it returns to the stage. Tickets and info.
Holiday Ornament Terrariums with Garden & Gather 12/6
In this workshop from Garden & Gather, you’ll build unique, self-sustaining terrariums from a variety of vibrant plants in large 5″ acrylic globe ornaments, as well as learn about the incredible little ecosystems that we can create in containers! Each ticket will cover the materials for one terrarium that you’ll take home, along with a neat handout guiding you through making your own terrariums. Bring the family, a date, or come solo to spend some quality time creating and learning all about terrariums. Full Bloom Coffee – 141 West Main Street, Garner, NC 27529. Tickets and info.
Norwood Gardens Christmas Market 12/6
The Christmas market is back at Norwood Gardens. They’ll have an assortment of vendors, food, music, Santa and Mrs. Claus and Sweet Thyme Cafe will be open. 9am-12pm, 6pm-9pm More info.
Holiday Sip ‘n Shop COR Museum 12/6
Shop with local vendors like Taste of London, sip holiday cocktails and mocktails, music, crafts, and more at the City of Raleigh Museum. 6pm-9pm More info.
Jolly Raleigh Holiday Market at Iron Works 12/7
Sip, shop, and celebrate all things local at our holiday market! 50+ vendors, food trucks, drinks, kids activities, photos with Santa Claus, and more at Raleigh Iron Works. 11am-5pm More info.
Santa Pictures and Champagne Brunch at The Bunny Hive 12/7
Embrace the magic of the season during an intimate morning with Santa! The Bunny Hive Raleigh is excited to partner with Kelly Bullock Photography to offer a festive photo experience that you won’t want to miss. Each ticket includes a 5 minute session of laughter and conversation with Santa! You will receive 2 digital photos and also have the option to purchase additional photos and prints. They will be offering an elevated brunch by Violet River Lane Catering and complimentary champagne. After photos and brunch, make your way to the bounce house to get some energy out! Tickets and info.
Fa La La Festival at Lafayette Village 12/7
Head to Lafayette Village and enjoy a curated group of vendors to help with all of your holiday shopping, lots of free holiday activities for kids, hot cocoa, a visit from Santa and some other favorite princesses, Christmas music, and more! This event is FREE but be sure to register. 2pm-5pm More info.
Cary Tree Lighting Market 12/7
The Night Market Co. is putting on a Cary Tree Lighting Market in Downtown Cary Park! Enjoy Art Cart, Penguins, and Storytime with Peter Rabbit, photos with Santa starting at 10am, food trucks, drinks, and more! Market from 2pm-9pm. Photos with Santa starting at 10am. Tree lighting starts at 6pm. 327 S. Academy St, Cary, NC. 2pm-9pm More info.
The Cary Vintage Market Holiday Edition 12/7
The last Cary Vintage Market from Hummingbird Collective is approaching! Come out and shop for holiday gifts for the whole family from more than 18 vintage vendors. Featuring vintage clothing, decor, housewares, furniture, Christmas sweaters, holiday accessories, and more. They’ll also have permanent jewelry, food trucks, craft beer, coffee, live music, and more! They’ll be taking off the month of January so this is your last event to shop at until they return in February! 12pm-5pm More info.
Jingle & Mingle Holiday Festival at Seaboard Station 12/7
Get ready to kick off the holiday season in style at the first annual – Seaboard Station’s Jingle & Mingle Holiday Festival! Seaboard Station is teaming up with Shop Local Raleigh & Raleigh Crimestoppers for a festive celebration to celebrate all the new shops in Seaboard Station. Meet Santa, enjoy live music from Southside Station, sip on a variety of seasonal drinks including beer, wine, hot cocoa and more from Red Moose Brewing and The Wine Feed. Enjoy delicious food from local vendors like Empire Eats, Magnificent Concessions, and more! 2pm-6pm More info. RSVP
Pin Point Toy Drive 12/7
Pin Point is teaming up with Riley’s Army to host a toy drive this holiday season! Bring in a new, unwrapped toy and get a complimentary lesson with one of their amazing pros on Saturday, December 7! Plus, Santa will be there for photo ops! Pickleball sessions will be between 10am-4pm and golf sessions will be between 8am-4pm. More info.
The Underground Market at North Hills 12/8
Check out The MAKRS Society’s market and concert series. 50+ local vendors, food trucks, workshops, live music, and more at CCU Midtown Park at North Hills. 11am-3pm More info.
Santa’s Junction Party at Union Hall 12/8
Head to Union Hall at Raleigh Union Station for an afternoon of holiday fun! Here’s what you and your family can look forward to:
Mini-train rides for the little ones to enjoy
Photos with Santa
Story time with Mrs. Claus for a cozy holiday tale
Cookie decorating
Face painting
Bounce house
Write letters to Santa
Indoor snowball fights and more!
York Properties is also accepting toy donations at check-in for Toys for Tots. Please feel free to bring an unwrapped, unused toy(s) for the donation.
If you missed the Holiday Express or prefer to avoid those chilly evenings, this is the perfect alternative to enjoy some warm and welcoming holiday cheer with your family. Tickets and info.
Gluten-Free Holiday Block Party 12/8
Gluten-Free, Awesome Fun is hosting a Holiday Block Party at Riparian Provision Co. + Slice Pie Company! Check out 20+ local artists, gifts, Los Panas food truck, gluten-free puppy treats, and more! 1pm-5pm More info.
Boylan Heights ArtWalk 12/8
Discover ceramics, glasswork, pottery, woodwork, jewelry, paintings, and more at the 32nd Annual Boylan Heights ArtWalk. 12pm-5pm. More info.
Frosty’s Festive Finds at Trunkshow 12/8
Frosty’s Festive Finds is on Sunday, December 8th! Local vendors will be in front of Trunkshow selling vintage clothing and home goods, handmade items, and refreshments. It will be a great place to find gifts for the holiday season! 11am-4pm More info.
hARTwell Market 12/8
Make Hartwell a stop during your trip to the Boylan Heights ArtWalk! They’ll have 20+ vendors setting up inside and outside of Hartwell for the afternoon. Live music, coffee, and food from Berto’s Chimis. 12pm-4pm. More info.
Sunday Yoga at Trophy Maywood 12/8
Meet inside the brewery at Trophy Brewing’s Maywood location for a 60-minute yoga flow! This class is great for all experience levels! Bring your mat and any props you like to use. One drink ticket is included with your registration, so stick around after class to enjoy a Trophy pint or non-alcoholic beverage and relax with the crew. 11am More info.
Winter Day Market & Santa Visit at City Market 12/8
Come shop with Santa at Winter Day Market presented by The Night Market Company. This is an indoor event that is sure to help you find those little unique gifts that even the most discerning person on your list will absolutely love! Local, talented vendors, live Holiday Music, drinks while you shop. City Market: 214 Martin Street, Raleigh, NC. 1pm-5pm More info.
Sippin’ Santa at Wye Hill
Get ready to ride another wave of festive cheer with Sippin’ Santa at Wye Hill! Expect even more of the most delightful holiday cocktails and the most nostalgic decor, making Wye Hill the ultimate destination in Raleigh to celebrate the season. They were booked full every weekend last year, so submit your event inquiries now! Now thru 12/31 More info.
NC Chinese Lantern Festival at Koka Booth
50+ larger-than-life lantern displays, nightly performances, and more! Now through Jan. 12. Tickets and info.
The Rink at Red Hat Amphitheater
A natural ice skating rink, lounging stations with heat warmers and fire pits, games, photo opportunities and more at Red Hat Amphitheater! Now thru 1/20. Tickets and info.
The Dessertery at Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts
Holiday-themed pop-up featuring all-you-can eat sweet treats at Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts. Now through 12/23. Tickets and info.
Live Music
12/6 Dexter & The Moonrocks at Lincoln Theatre 7:30pm Tickets
12/6 Native Sun w/ Zulitas, Canned Snakes at The Pour House 7pm Tickets
12/7 Blue Footed Boobies w/ Pink Beds at The Pour House 8pm Tickets
12/7 The Breakfast Club at Lincoln Theatre 7:30pm Tickets
12/8 Pretty Crimes w/ Rikki Rakki, Jupiter 2 at The Pour House 8pm Tickets
