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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Elf at Raleigh Brewing 12/13
Enjoy popcorn, candy, seasonal brews, and an indoor screening of Elf at Raleigh Brewing. 7pm More info.
GingerBuild Houses & Hops at Marbles 12/13
Decorate your own edible gingerbread house at GingerBuild Houses & Hops at Marbles Raleigh. Enjoy building an edible gingerbread house with friends, sip on a beverage and have fun like a kid again! Take your gingerbread house home or demolish it in the Demolition Zone. Beer, wine, seltzer, water and soda will be available for purchase. Ages 21 and up. $25/person. 7pm-9pm Tickets and info.
Sola Christmas Sing-a-long 12/13
Join Sola Coffee on the back patio for Christmas carols. Enjoy popcorn and hot cider on the house and beer and wine will be available for purchase. Grab your pals, bundle up, and join the fun! 6pm More info.
Holiday Sip & Decorate at Madame B’s Bakery 12/13
Indulge in an enchanting evening of creativity and confectionery delight at this Holiday themed “Sip N’ Decorate” Cake Decorating class at Madame B’s Bakery! Madame B will guide you through an array of techniques, from smooth fondant application to intricate piping designs, that will leave you awestruck. 7pm-8:30pm Tickets and info.
Canes vs. Senators 12/13
Watch the Canes face off against the Senators on Pride Night. Check out local food options from The BBQ Lab, Gonza Tacos, and Two Roosters. 7pm Tickets
The Nutcracker at Martin Marietta Center
As Carolina Ballet’s most-attended production ever, this beautiful ballet marries the charm of the original with fresh choreography, vibrant sets, and stunning costumes. Enjoy this holiday tradition at Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts. Tickets
Carousel Farms Bulls Bells & Barrels 12/13-14
Grab your boots and get ready for a wild ride! Carousel Farms is hosting the American Bull Riders Finals at the State Fairgrounds. VIP $20, GA $15. 6pm. Tickets and info.
Happy Howlidays Shopping Pawty 12/14
Load up the family and your pooch pal to head to Saving Grace Supply Co. for:
Pet portraits with Santa from 10:30am to 1:00pm
Foster puppy snuggles (they’re ready for adoption!)
A gift with every $25+ purchase (while supplies last)
Complimentary gift wrapping with $25+ purchase
Snacks for those with two legs
This is a great opportunity to give back to shelter dogs in need this holiday season, as all proceeds benefit pups within the adoption program to aid in their overall care, so they’re prepared to find their fur-ever home. 10am-3pm More info.
The Holiday Market at Seaboard Station 12/14
Local artisans and live music at Seaboard Station. 20 Seaboard Ave. 10am-3pm. More info.
Historic Oakwood Candlelight Tour 12/14-15
Take a walk through history, as ten properties in the Historic Oakwood neighborhood open their doors to visitors during the Annual Historic Oakwood Candlelight Tour. Historic Oakwood is a community of homes mostly dated from the mid-1800s to the early 1900s. Homes are staffed with docents to enlighten you on the rich history of each property. Tickets: Regular – $40, Groups – $38. 1pm-7pm Tickets and info.
MAKRS Holiday Fest in Downtown Raleigh 12/14
Head downtown for the largest MAKRS Holiday Fest from The MAKRS Society! They’ll have:
170+ local vendors
20 food trucks
A Holiday-themed wrestling ring
Photos with Santa/Mrs. Claus
Petting Zoo
Craft beer, wine, bubbly and seltzer
Holiday-themed lounges
Kids Zone with face painting and more
Performers such as Stilt Walkers and a human snow globe.
And more festive fun! Fayetteville St. 11am-6pm More info.
Maker’s Market at Logan’s 12/14
Shop with 20+ local artisans, grab a bite from Tha BirdMan 919 food truck, and enjoy sales at Logan’s Garden Shop! 11am-3pm. More info.
Happy Holidaze Art Market at The Burnt Pot Cafe 12/14
Come celebrate the holidays with Hummingbird Market and shop from 10 local art vendors, sip on infused drinks from The Burnt Pot and shop your favorite infused goodies from Modern Apotheca right next door. Catered holiday snacks and charcuterie will be provided. 2pm-6pm More info.
Whoville Christmas Market at Triangle Town Center 12/14-15
Live music, local vendors, get your picture with the Grinch! 10am-6pm
Winter Wonderland Market at Tap Yard 12/14
Delight in your favorite brews and the festive atmosphere while you get a head start on your holiday shopping with goodies from local artisans, crafters, and vendors. Grab delicious food from Panas Flavor! Stay refreshed with Tap Yard’s incredible selection of seasonal beverages, craft beers, cocktails, ciders, and non-alcoholic beverages. Come out early to enjoy a free pre-shopping flow from Arrichion East Raleigh Yoga at 11am. Starting at 4pm, enjoy live music from Fred Mascherino, Rookie of the Year, & Sagamore to celebrate the season with an Emo Christmas show. Don’t miss your chance to snag local gifts and have some holiday fun at Tap Yard’s Winter Wonderland market! 1pm-5pm More info.
Gluten-Free Holiday Block Party 12/15
Head to Riparian Provision Co. + Slice Pie Company and check out 20+ local artists, gifts, Los Panas food truck, gluten-free puppy treats, and more at this holiday block party by Gluten-Free, Awesome Fun! 1pm-5pm More info.
Fall Back Vintage Market 12/15
Check out 30+ vintage vendors, sweet treats, food trucks, beer and mimosas, and more at the Fall Back Vintage Market at R&D Brewing. 11am-4pm More info.
Ajja Market 12/15
Shop with 17+ local vendors, 3 bands, drinks, and snacks at the bar at Ajja. 12pm-4pm More info.
Canes vs. Columbus 12/15
Watch the Canes face off against Columbus. Check out local food options from The BBQ Lab, Gonza Tacos, and Two Roosters. 5pm Tickets
Santa Express with The Great Raleigh Trolley
Hop aboard the Great Raleigh Trolley and enjoy a ride through Downtown and story time with Santa. The Big Guy in Red will visit with each kid personally to review their wish list and pose for pictures. $42. 11am-4pm. Tickets and info.
Holiday Art Market at Artspace 12/14
In addition to 30 studio artists, Artspace will have 26 guest artists with their best handmade creations in a wide range of media from pottery and planters to paintings to jewelry and glass all under one roof. 11am-4pm More info.
Cary Jaycees Christmas Parade 12/14
Bands, mascots, local businesses, community groups, and more 2pm-4pm. More info.
Holiday Karaoke at Raleigh Brewing 12/14
Turn up the cheer with holiday-themed karaoke at Raleigh Brewing. Ugly sweaters and costumes encouraged! 7pm
Happy Holly Days Parade 12/14
Floats, bands, dancers, decorated vehicles, marching groups, and more travel Main Street through downtown Holly Springs. 10am More info.
Knightdale Christmas Parade 12/14
Floats, vehicles, marching groups, and more. First Avenue near Knightdale Station Run. 10am More info.
Raleigh Holiday Treasure Hunt 12/14-15
Get in the holiday spirit with this 60-minute holiday-themed scavenger from Triangle Treasure Hunt, starting at Crank Arm Brewing. Tickets and info.
Marbles Gingerbread Jamboree 12/14-15
Create your own keepsake gingerbread house at Marbles Kids Museum. Tickets and info.
Movies and Mo at Hartwell 12/15
Enjoy lunch from The MOdega and a family-friendly Christmas movie at Hartwell. 1pm-5pm
Cinderella at Raleigh Little Theatre
Raleigh Little Theatre’s holiday tradition returns to celebrate its 40th year! Kids of all ages will love this retelling of the beloved fairy tale, filled with music, laughs, and a sparkle of magic. This musical comedy features elegant costumes and scenery and a cast of memorable characters including some conniving step-relatives, royals, everyone’s favorite resourceful Fairy Godmother, and Ella, of course! Runs now through December 22. Tickets and info.
Sippin’ Santa at Wye Hill
Enjoy 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 1/12. 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
12/13 The Connells at Lincoln Theatre 7pm Tickets
12/13 Arson Daily w/ Holy Roller at The Pour House 7pm Tickets
12/14 Start Making Sense (Talking Heads Tribute) at Lincoln Theatre 7:30pm Tickets
12/14 Funk You w/ Chill Paxton at The Pour House 8pm Tickets
12/14 Yarn at Lincoln Theatre 7pm Tickets
12/15 Birth-Tay: A Dance Night at The Pour House 7pm Tickets
