Downtown Raleigh Tree Lighting and Holiday Market
Guests gather in the historic green space of Moore Square to celebrate the lighting of the Raleigh Christmas Tree. The festivities include a bustling Holiday Market where visitors can browse and shop for goods from local vendors.
What to Expect
Features a holiday market with local vendors in Moore Square.
Event Details
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Downtown Raleigh
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
Downtown Raleigh Alliance
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Holiday shoppers and families
Vibe
Festive and communal
Energy Level
Moderate
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
High
Location
Know Before You Go
- Hours: Holiday Vendor Market: 5:30 - 8:00 pm.
- Parking: Nearby parking includes the City Market Parking Lot and Lot A8 on E Martin St, the Moore Square Lot on E Hargett St and the Moore Square Parking Deck on S Wilmington St.
Tips & Advice
- Vendors who want a spot in the Holiday Market should submit the interest form before the Friday, October 23 deadline.
- Expect a big crowd, since the tree lighting and Holiday Market draw more than 4,000 people to Moore Square.
- Park at the City Market lot on East Martin Street or the Moore Square Parking Deck, both a short walk from the square.
- Grab dinner nearby at spots like Lucky Tree, Kokoro Ramen & Izakaya or City Market Sushi, all just steps from Moore Square.
- Dress warmly, because the market and tree lighting take place outdoors in Moore Square on a November evening.
Special Events & Promotions
- This year the tree lighting is part of the City of Raleigh's Raleigh for the Holidays celebration.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I shop for at the Holiday Market?
The tree lighting includes a Holiday Vendor Market where you can shop from local vendors.
How do I become a vendor at the market?
Submit the interest form by Friday, October 23, 2026. Questions about the market or the process go to Nicole Drake, Events Project Manager.
Where can I park near Moore Square?
The closest options are the City Market Parking Lot at 228 E Martin St, the Moore Square Lot at 304 E Hargett St, Lot A8 at 313 E Martin St and the Moore Square Parking Deck at 233 S Wilmington St.
Where can I eat nearby?
Lucky Tree, Kokoro Ramen & Izakaya, City Market Sushi and Blackbird Books & Coffee are all just steps from the square.
How can a business sponsor the tree lighting?
Contact Ileana Rodriguez, Vice President of Communications and Community Relations at the Downtown Raleigh Alliance.
More Christmas Events Near Raleigh
More Christmas Events near Raleigh
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.