See all Durham Christmas happenings this year!
Durham unveils Christmas 2025 near Brightleaf Square and downtown terraces, where historic brick meets holiday sparkle. Residents and visitors share holiday adventures, winter events and seasonal fun including festive markets, live concerts and neighborhood light walks.
Find the best Durham Christmas happenings this year!
Top Christmas Events In and Around Durham
- The Hip Hop Nutcracker
- A Christmas Carol - Theatre in the Park
- NUTCRACKER! Magical Christmas Ballet
- Wool E. Bull's Winter Wonderland
- The Jinkx & DeLa Holiday Show
- Durham Symphony Holiday Pops Concert
- Durham Holiday Parade
- Durham Art Walk Holiday Market
- Holidays in the Park at Museum of Life and Science
- Golden Belt Holiday Art Market
See even MORE Christmas events below!
Durham Christmas Events
Durham Christmas Movies, Theater and Entertainment
Event Details
Event Description
This spectacular holiday mash-up reimagines the classic Nutcracker with a vibrant hip hop twist. Featuring a dozen all-star dancers, a DJ, and a violinist, the show brings the beloved story to life with contemporary New York City flair. Experience the magic of love, community, and the holiday season through dynamic dance and Tchaikovsky's iconic music.
Event Details
Event Description
Experience Ira David Wood III's beloved musical comedy adaptation of 'A Christmas Carol,' a North Carolina holiday tradition for over 50 years. This acclaimed production, starring Ira David Wood IV as Ebenezer Scrooge, brings the classic tale to life with spirited performances, show-stopping tunes, and a perfect blend of humor and heart.
Event Details
Event Description
Experience the enchanting NUTCRACKER! Magical Christmas Ballet, a beloved family tradition. This performance features an extraordinary international cast and Ukrainian Principal Artists showcasing the height of classical European ballet. Prepare to be mesmerized by breathtaking acrobatics, larger-than-life puppets, and exquisite hand-crafted sets and costumes that bring this magical Christmas celebration to life.
Event Details
Event Description
Prepare for a holiday spectacle as "The Queens of Christmas" bring their acclaimed show to Durham. This dazzling performance features whip-smart comedy, brand new songs, and beloved annual favorites, promising an evening that will lift spirits and inspire laughter.
Event Details
Event Description
The Durham Symphony Orchestra presents its much-anticipated annual Holiday Pops concert at the Durham Armory. This festive event promises a delightful program of beloved holiday classics, performed by the talented musicians of the DSO. It's the perfect way to immerse yourself in the joyous spirit of the season with enchanting orchestral music.
Event Details
Event Description
Immerse yourself in the spirit of the season with Black Nativity Durham, a powerful and soulful gospel celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ. This beloved production, based on Langston Hughes' classic telling, features over 100 talented singers, dancers, and musicians. Experience a moving performance that combines original music with beloved gospel hits, creating an uplifting and spiritual journey.
Durham Christmas Light Displays
Event Details
Event Description
Step into a magical winter wonderland at Wool E. Bull's Winter Wonderland, transforming the Durham Bulls Athletic Park into a festive spectacle. Stroll through dazzling light installations, enjoy seasonal treats, and meet Santa. Experience thrilling sledding and train rides for an unforgettable holiday celebration.
Event Details
Event Description
Experience the magic of the holiday season at the Museum of Life and Science's Holidays in the Park. Wander through illuminated gardens and along the Dinosaur Trail, where shimmering pathways and glowing trees create a festive atmosphere. Enjoy the warmth of the Magic Wings Butterfly House and the enchanting lights along the Dino Trail. Don't miss the scenic train ride, offering a unique view of the dazzling displays.
Event Details
Event Description
Step back in time to experience an authentic 1870s North Carolina Christmas at Duke Homestead. Follow a magical candlelit path through the historic area, where costumed interpreters will bring the Duke family home to life. Enjoy live Christmas music, dancing, and singing, all while savoring traditional holiday cookies. This beloved annual event offers a unique glimpse into historical holiday traditions.
Event Details
Event Description
Step back in time at Duke Homestead's Christmas by Candlelight. This cherished annual event invites visitors to experience an 1870 Christmas through a captivating candlelit tour of the historic Duke family home. Enjoy live music, dancing, and singing, all while savoring traditional holiday cookies. Costumed interpreters bring the past to life, offering a truly immersive and festive holiday experience.
Durham Christmas Markets and Shopping
Event Details
Event Description
Immerse yourself in the festive spirit at the Durham Art Walk Holiday Market. This vibrant event showcases the talent of over 100 local artisans, offering a unique opportunity to find handcrafted gifts, holiday decorations, and original artwork. Discover one-of-a-kind treasures while supporting the Durham Arts Council's mission to promote and nurture the arts in the community.
Event Details
Event Description
Discover unique, handcrafted treasures at the Golden Belt Holiday Art Market! This vibrant event showcases over 25 local artists and resident creators, offering a fantastic opportunity to find one-of-a-kind gifts. Immerse yourself in the holiday spirit with live performances and a special make-and-take ornament project. It's the perfect destination for festive shopping and creative fun.
Event Details
Event Description
Discover unique, handmade treasures at Shop Small Saturday in Durham. This vibrant event brings together the best local artisans and makers, offering a fantastic opportunity to find one-of-a-kind gifts. Support small businesses and immerse yourself in a creative atmosphere filled with handcrafted goods.
Event Details
Event Description
Discover unique, handmade holiday gifts from over 30 local artists at the Durham Holiday Hoopla Market. This virtual event allows you to shop from home, browse a wide array of art including paper goods, jewelry, pottery, and paintings, and even watch live artist demonstrations. Support local creators and find one-of-a-kind treasures.
Durham Other Christmas Activities
Event Details
Event Description
Kick off the holiday season with the vibrant Durham Holiday Parade! Cheer on hometown bands, drill teams, schools, and community groups as they march down Main Street. The festive procession culminates with a special appearance from Santa Claus, making it a joyous event for all.
Event Details
Event Description
Bring your furry friends for a special evening at Santa Paws! This unique event allows dogs to meet Santa and Mrs. Claus for festive photos. Participate in a hilarious canine holiday ugly sweater contest and browse the 'Pup-Up' Market for pet-themed goodies. Attendees are also encouraged to contribute to a canine food and toy drive.
Christmas Events Near Durham
Chapel Hill Christmas Events
Carrboro Christmas Events
Cary Christmas Events
Apex Christmas Events
West Raleigh Christmas Events
Raleigh Christmas Events
Wake Forest Christmas Events
Holly Springs Christmas Events
Garner Christmas Events
Sanford Christmas Events
View Our Interactive Map for More Events Around Durham
Discover thousands of christmas events across the country
Christmas Events Road Trips & Weekend Getaways
Worth the drive for more christmas events near Durham!
Explore Other Cities
Find events in different locations
Our Process
With 20 years of experience, we use AI technology to build the most comprehensive list of christmas events events.
Our goal is complete coverage—from major festivals to small community celebrations, ensuring you never miss anything happening in your area.
Learn More About Our Process