Raleigh Other Christmas Activities 2025

Discover 39 verified other christmas activities in Raleigh and nearby areas.

Compare 39 Raleigh Christmas activities at a glance: timing, cost, and event type.

All Other Christmas Activities Around Raleigh

Historic Oakwood Candlelight Tour

$$

Victorian Christmas home tour in Raleigh's historic Oakwood neighborhood.

Step into a bygone era at the Historic Oakwood Candlelight Tour, a cherished holiday tradition in Raleigh. This event invites visitors to explore ten magnificent homes, showcasing stunning Victorian, Queen Anne, and Craftsman architecture. Docents within each property share fascinating...

Victorian ChristmasHoliday TraditionCommunity Celebration

Joy of the Season Master Chorale

$$

Holiday concert by the Master Chorale

Immerse yourself in the spirit of the season with the Joy of the Season Master Chorale performance. This special event promises a heartwarming musical experience, perfect for ushering in holiday cheer. Join them for an evening of beautiful melodies and...

ConcertsClassical MusicFamily Friendly

Santa's Trolley Tour

$$

Holiday trolley tour to find Santa

Join Holly the Elf on a whimsical adventure aboard the Historic Raleigh Trolley to help find Santa before Christmas. This enchanting experience departs from Mordecai Historic Park and offers a delightful way to embrace the holiday spirit. Guests can arrive...

Holiday TraditionFamily FriendlySeasonal Activities

WRAL Tower Lighting

$

Annual lighting of three WRAL towers

Join the 66th annual WRAL Tower Lighting, a cherished tradition illuminating the Raleigh, Durham, and Rocky Mount towers. This festive event features live music, holiday cheer, and special broadcasts, including a look at the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree lighting. The...

Holiday SeasonChristmasCommunity Celebration

ABC11 Raleigh Christmas Parade

Free

Largest Christmas parade between Washington, D.C. and Atlanta.

Get ready for the spectacular 81st ABC11 Raleigh Christmas Parade, presented by Shop Local Raleigh! This grand event marks the official start of the holiday season in Downtown Raleigh. As the largest parade between Washington, D.C., and Atlanta, it promises...

ParadesFamily FriendlyCommunity Celebration

WRAL First Night Raleigh

$$

Iconic Raleigh Acorn Drop and fireworks finale

WRAL First Night Raleigh is the city's premier New Year's Eve destination, offering a full day of festivities for thousands of residents. The celebration kicks off in the early afternoon with outdoor musical performances and a dedicated Children's Celebration. As...

Community CelebrationNew Years EveFamily Friendly

Skate the Square at Fenton

Cary, NC 7 mi from Raleigh
$$

Outdoor ice skating in a vibrant town square.

Lace up your skates for the highly anticipated Skate the Square at Fenton, returning for the 2025-26 season. This outdoor ice rink offers a festive winter experience for all ages. Enjoy 75-minute skating sessions and take advantage of special discount...

Ice SkatingWinter ActivitiesFamily Friendly

Victorian Christmas at the Page-Walker

Cary, NC 8 mi from Raleigh
Free

Victorian-themed Christmas at a historic venue

Step into a charming Victorian Christmas at the historic Page-Walker Arts & History Center. This delightful event offers a classic holiday atmosphere with cookies, caroling, and engaging activities for children. Enjoy heartwarming holiday stories and perhaps even a visit from...

Holiday TraditionFamily FriendlyCommunity Celebration

Cary Kwanzaa Celebration

Cary, NC 8 mi from Raleigh
Free

Celebration of African culture and Kwanzaa traditions

Immerse yourself in the rich traditions of Kwanzaa at this vibrant celebration. Curated by Darrell Stover, the event showcases the best of the Triangle's African cultural performers, including dancers, drummers, storytellers, and visual artists. Discover how scholarship and performance intertwine...

Cultural EventsFamily FriendlyCommunity Celebration

Cary Jaycees Christmas Parade

Cary, NC 8 mi from Raleigh
$$

46th annual Christmas parade with community groups and Santa.

Join the 46th annual Cary Jaycees Christmas Parade in downtown Cary for a spectacular display of holiday spirit. This cherished event features a vibrant procession of marching bands, local businesses, community groups, and festive floats, all culminating in an appearance...

ParadeChristmasHoliday Activities

Apex Tree Lighting Ceremony

Apex, NC 12 mi from Raleigh
Free

Town's first-ever tree lighting ceremony

Join the Apex community for a heartwarming Tree Lighting Ceremony on December 5th. This town-organized event features the ceremonial lighting of the first tree on the Town Hall Campus. Attendees can enjoy performances by local school bands and choirs, craft...

Tree LightingSanta VisitsFamily Friendly

Chanukah Festival

Apex, NC 12 mi from Raleigh
Free

Community Chanukah celebration with menorah lighting

Celebrate the Festival of Lights at the Chanukah Festival, an event organized by Chabad of Cary. This vibrant community gathering features engaging games, creative crafts, and delicious food. The celebration culminates with a meaningful menorah lighting ceremony on Town Campus,...

Community CelebrationHoliday TraditionSanta Visits

Apex Rotary Christmas Parade

Apex, NC 12 mi from Raleigh
Free

Wake County's only nighttime Christmas parade

The Annual Apex Rotary Christmas Parade lights up Downtown Apex on Saturday, December 6, 2025. This unique nighttime parade, the only one of its kind in Wake County, kicks off at 5:00 pm on Salem Street. Organized by the Apex...

ParadesCommunity CelebrationHoliday Tradition

Apex Rotary Club Christmas Parade

Apex, NC 13 mi from Raleigh
Free

One of the few night parades in the area

The Annual Apex Rotary Christmas Parade lights up the night on Saturday, December 6, 2025. This beloved community event features over 100 entries and 11 marching bands, culminating in a special guest appearance. Experience the vibrant atmosphere and dazzling illuminated...

ParadesSanta VisitsCommunity Celebration

Happy Holly Days Parade

Holly Springs, NC 15 mi from Raleigh
Free

Community parade with floats, bands, and dancers.

Get ready for the Happy Holly Days Parade, a beloved community tradition! This festive event features a dazzling procession of floats, energetic marching bands, talented dancers, and creatively decorated vehicles. Experience the holiday cheer as the parade winds its way...

ParadesCommunity CelebrationFamily Friendly

Fuquay-Varina Holiday Happenings

Fuquay, NC 16 mi from Raleigh
$

Community-wide holiday celebration with diverse events and giving opportunities.

Celebrate the festive season in Fuquay-Varina with a charming collection of holiday events. Witness the magical Town Tree Lighting Ceremony, enjoy the vibrant Christmas Parade, and be dazzled by the holiday lights at Mineral Spring Park. The Arts Center hosts...

Tree LightingParadesLight Displays

Durham Holiday Parade

Durham, NC 20 mi from Raleigh
Free

Community parade with Santa Claus appearance

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...

ParadesSanta VisitsCommunity Celebration

Santa Paws

Durham, NC 21 mi from Raleigh
$

Holiday event for dogs with Santa photos and ugly sweater contest.

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...

Santa VisitsFamily FriendlyPet Friendly

Smithfield Christmas Parade

Smithfield, NC 25 mi from Raleigh
Free

Annual Christmas Parade with Santa visit

Join the Town of Smithfield for their annual Christmas Parade on December 11th at 7:00 PM. This festive event features dazzling floats and joyful music, culminating in a special visit from Santa Claus. Before the parade, enjoy complimentary hot chocolate...

ParadesSanta VisitsFamily Friendly

Carrboro-Chapel Hill Community Holiday Parade

Chapel Hill, NC 26 mi from Raleigh
Free

Community parade through Carrboro and Chapel Hill

Celebrate the magic of the holiday season at the Carrboro-Chapel Hill Community Holiday Parade. This festive and inclusive event brings together arts, cultural, and community groups for a vibrant procession. Stake out a curbside spot to watch the parade wind...

Community CelebrationParadesFamily Friendly

Selma Christmas Celebration

Selma, NC 26 mi from Raleigh
Free

Community Christmas celebration

Join the Selma Christmas Celebration for a heartwarming start to the holiday season. This festive event brings the community together to usher in the most wonderful time of the year with local charm and holiday spirit.

Community CelebrationHoliday EventsFamily Friendly

Pittsboro Parade

Pittsboro, NC 31 mi from Raleigh
$

Annual parade with decorated floats and community cheer.

The annual Pittsboro Parade returns, bringing a vibrant display of community spirit. Local groups and businesses showcase their creativity with beautifully decorated floats, twinkling lights, and festive costumes. Spectators are encouraged to bring their own chairs and blankets to enjoy...

ParadesCommunity CelebrationFamily Friendly

Running of the Elves

Hillsborough, NC 33 mi from Raleigh
$

A festive 1-mile race leading into the holiday parade.

Lace up your running shoes for the 'Running of the Elves,' a spirited 1-mile race that precedes the Hillsborough Holiday Parade. Participants are encouraged to don elf-themed attire, creating a festive spectacle as they dash downhill through town. This unique...

Holiday TraditionFamily FriendlyCommunity Celebration

Light Up The Night Holiday Parade

Hillsborough, NC 33 mi from Raleigh
Free

Annual 'Candyland' themed holiday parade

Get ready for the 'Candyland' themed Light Up The Night Holiday Parade in downtown Hillsborough! This beloved annual event, organized by the Hillsborough/Orange County Chamber of Commerce, will feature a dazzling procession of marching bands, creative floats, classic cars, and...

ParadesFamily FriendlyCommunity Celebration

Wilson Christmas Parade

Wilson, NC 43 mi from Raleigh
$$

Parade with a dedicated Sensory Zone

Get ready for the beloved Wilson Christmas Parade on December 6, 2025! This festive event kicks off at 11:00 AM in Historic Downtown Wilson along Nash Street. Experience a joyful procession featuring community groups, businesses, and marching bands. A special...

ParadesCommunity CelebrationFamily Friendly

Goldsboro Christmas Parade

Goldsboro, NC 45 mi from Raleigh
Free

Annual community Christmas parade

Get ready for the annual Goldsboro Christmas Parade, a cherished community tradition! This festive event brings together local businesses, organizations, and families to celebrate the holiday season with decorated floats and marching bands. It's a perfect opportunity to spread Christmas...

ParadesCommunity CelebrationHoliday Tradition

Ugly Sweater Sip and Paint

Rocky Mount, NC 46 mi from Raleigh
$$

Festive ugly sweater themed painting party

Get into the holiday spirit with a unique 'Ugly Sweater Sip and Paint' event. This is a perfect opportunity to gather with friends, don a spectacularly festive (and perhaps gaudy) holiday sweater, and unleash your creativity on a canvas. Enjoy...

Seasonal ActivitiesFamily FriendlyWorkshops

Fort Liberty Christmas Tree Lighting

Fort Bragg, NC 48 mi from Raleigh
Free

Christmas tree lighting with Golden Knights performance

Kick off the holiday season with the enchanting Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony at Fort Liberty's Main Post Parade Field. This beloved event features the ceremonial lighting of the Garrison Christmas Tree, a magical visit from Santa Claus, and thrilling performances...

Tree LightingSanta VisitsFamily Friendly

Rocky Mount Christmas Parade

Rocky Mount, NC 48 mi from Raleigh
Free

Annual downtown Christmas parade with Santa

The Rocky Mount Christmas Parade is a cherished downtown tradition that draws crowds from across the city. Spectators can look forward to a dazzling display of floats, live animals, and festive sights, culminating in a special appearance by Santa Claus...

ParadesSanta VisitsFamily Friendly

Santa's Cottage

Burlington, IA 50 mi from Raleigh
Free

Meet Santa Claus in his downtown cottage

Experience the magic of the holiday season as Santa Claus himself greets visitors from his cozy cottage. Located in the heart of Downtown Burlington, this is a perfect opportunity for families to create lasting memories and share their Christmas wishes.

Santa VisitsFamily FriendlyCommunity Celebration

Christmas in the Park

Burlington, NC 50 mi from Raleigh
Free

Free Christmas event with carousel rides and Santa visits

Experience the magic of Christmas in the Park, a cherished Burlington tradition! This completely free event transforms City Park into a winter wonderland. Enjoy complimentary carousel rides, a thrilling sledding hill, and fun activities like an inflatable snowball toss and...

Family FriendlyFree EventSanta Visits

Fayetteville Rotary Christmas Parade

Fayetteville, NC 52 mi from Raleigh
Free

Over 125 entries in a traditional Christmas parade

Join the festive spirit at the Fayetteville Rotary Christmas Parade, a cherished holiday tradition since 1999. This spectacular event features over 125 entries, including lively bands, energetic dance groups, impressive motorcycles, and majestic horses. The highlight for many is the...

ParadesSanta VisitsCommunity Celebration

Christmas Wreath Making Workshop at Millstone Creek Orchards

Ramseur, NC 53 mi from Raleigh
$$

Create your own holiday wreath.

Unleash your inner artist at Millstone Creek Orchards' Christmas Wreath Making Workshop. Participants will be guided through the creative process of designing and assembling a stunning holiday wreath, perfect for adorning their homes. All materials are provided, ensuring a fun...

WorkshopsHoliday TraditionHandmade Crafts

Fayetteville Marksmen Hockey Games

Fayetteville, NC 55 mi from Raleigh
$$

Themed game nights with post-game player skate opportunities.

Experience the excitement of professional hockey with the Fayetteville Marksmen at the Crown Complex Coliseum. They offer a dynamic game-day experience with a variety of themed nights, from 'Dia de los Muertos' to 'Star Wars Night', ensuring entertainment for the...

Family FriendlyLive EntertainmentSeasonal Activities

Hope Mills Christmas Parade

Hope Mills, NC 59 mi from Raleigh
Free

Community Christmas parade with a 'Parade of Lights' theme.

Experience the magic of the holiday season at the Hope Mills Christmas Parade. This beloved event transforms the town into a dazzling 'Parade of Lights' as participants showcase their festive spirit. Join the community to watch a vibrant procession of...

ParadesChristmas MarketFamily Friendly

View All Other Christmas Activities on Map

See the location of all other christmas activities around Raleigh and nearby areas

Open Map →

Explore More Categories

Frequently Asked Questions

What's a simple 'three-stop' festive route for visitors to Raleigh?

One central display at dusk, a warm drink or dessert stop, then a short neighborhood lights loop. Keep total time under two hours.

Any quick etiquette for parades in Raleigh without bringing chairs?

Stand behind seated groups, keep walkways clear, and avoid stepping into the route for photos. Offer space to kids for better views.

How do we plan a budget-friendly holiday day in Raleigh?

Stack 2–3 free stops: a tree or plaza display, a library/city-center craft, and a neighborhood lights walk after dusk. Bring cocoa in a thermos and set a small souvenir cap.

← Back to Raleigh Christmas Events Hub