Top 25 Triangle Events This Weekend December 12–14th Edition

From holiday markets and parades to Santa photos, Christmas lights, and cultural festivals, these are the 25 can’t-miss events happening across Raleigh, Durham, Cary, Chapel Hill, and beyond this weekend.

🎄 Top 25 Weekend Picks

1. Moore Square Winterfaire

Fri–Sun | FREE | Moore Square, Raleigh

Downtown Raleigh’s signature holiday experience with lights, vendors, music, and Santa visits.

2. North Carolina Chinese Lantern Festival

Fri–Sat | Paid | Koka Booth Amphitheatre, Cary

A must-see nighttime spectacle featuring massive illuminated lantern displays.

3. Free Santa Photos at Bass Pro Shops Santa’s Wonderland

All Weekend | FREE | Multiple locations

A Triangle holiday tradition for families.

4. Krispy Kreme Day of the Dozen

Friday | $1 | Multiple locations

Buy a dozen doughnuts, get a second dozen for just $1.

5. North Carolina Executive Mansion Holiday Open House

Fri–Sat | FREE | Raleigh

Step inside one of Raleigh’s most historic buildings, decked out for the holidays.

6. 18th Annual St. Nicholas European Christmas Market

Fri–Sat | FREE | NC State Fairgrounds

A festive European-style holiday market with food, crafts, and entertainment.

7. Illuminate Art Walk

Fri & Sat | FREE | Downtown Raleigh

A glowing art walk through downtown Raleigh after dark.

8. Santa’s Trolley at Mordecai Historic Park

Fri & Sat | $15 | Raleigh

A family favorite featuring trolley rides, lights, and holiday storytelling.

9. Durham Holiday Parade

Saturday | FREE | Downtown Durham

One of the Triangle’s biggest and most festive holiday parades.

10. Cary Gingerbread House Competition

All Weekend | FREE | Downtown Cary

Creative gingerbread builds on display throughout downtown Cary.

11. Winter Lantern Walk

Saturday | FREE | NC Museum of Art, Raleigh

A peaceful, illuminated walk through the museum’s outdoor park.

12. Krampus Walk & Night Market

Saturday | FREE | Downtown Durham

A unique, slightly spooky holiday tradition featuring costumes and vendors.

13. Phillips Farms Walk-Through Christmas Light Show

Fri–Sat | $15 | Cary

A classic walk-through light display perfect for families.

14. Santa Express at New Hope Valley Railway

Sat–Sun | Paid | New Hill

Train rides with Santa through the North Carolina countryside.

15. Durham Craft Market – Holiday Edition

Sat–Sun | FREE | Durham Central Park

Local makers, gifts, and seasonal treats.

16. Shop Local Raleigh: Holidays on Hammell

Saturday | FREE | The Weld, Raleigh

Support local businesses at this curated holiday shopping event.

17. Free Toy & Bike Giveaway (HBCU Edition)

Saturday | FREE | Shaw University, Raleigh

Community-focused holiday giving event with toys, haircuts, and activities.

18. Christmas Light Displays Around the Triangle

Fri–Sun | FREE

Includes Lake Myra (Wendell), Piper Lights (Wake Forest), Contentnea Fire Dept (Wilson).

19. Free Guided Tours of the NC State Capitol

Saturday | FREE | Raleigh

Explore North Carolina history during the holiday season.

20. Krampus Night Market

Saturday | FREE | Durham Central Park

A companion event to the Krampus Walk with food trucks and vendors.

21. Skywatching: Geminid Meteor Shower

Saturday Night | FREE | Stagville & West Point on the Eno

One of the best meteor showers of the year.

22. Holiday Kiln Opening at Mark Hewitt Pottery

Sunday | FREE | Pittsboro

Pottery seconds, kiln openings, and a behind-the-scenes look at a local studio.

23. Durham Holiday Concerts & Caroling

Sat–Sun | FREE | Multiple venues

Includes choir performances, jazz nights, and seasonal concerts.

24. Holiday Markets Across the Triangle

All Weekend | FREE

From Weihnachtsmarkt in Durham to pop-up markets in Raleigh and Cary.

25. Santa Express + Santa Meet-and-Greets Across the Triangle

All Weekend | FREE & Paid | Multiple locations

From breweries to shopping centers, Santa is everywhere this weekend.

🎁 Make the Most of Your Weekend

With dozens of free holiday events, this is one of the best weekends of the year to explore the Triangle. Many Santa events and trolley rides require reservations, so check details before heading out.

Follow DoRaleigh.com for daily updates on government meetings, local festivals, and community happenings — your one-stop guide to everything Raleigh!

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The Triangle Event Guide Wednesday December 10th Edition

The Triangle is full of free holiday fun, local brewery events, creative meetups, community concerts, and seasonal light displays. From Santa photos at Bass Pro to poetry nights, drum circles, food distribution services, and family programming, today offers something special in every city.

Use this DoRaleigh.com daily guide to plan your Wednesday across Raleigh, Cary, Durham, Chapel Hill, Apex, Pittsboro, Wake Forest, Wendell, Wilson, and Holly Springs.

🎅 All-Day & Morning Events

Free Santa Photos — Santa’s Wonderland

All Day | FREE | Bass Pro Shops (multiple locations)

A beloved holiday tradition with free Santa photos and festive displays. Expect seasonal décor, holiday cheer, and family activities.

Cary Gingerbread House Competition

All Day | FREE | Downtown Cary

Browse downtown Cary and view dazzling gingerbread house creations by bakers, artists, kids, and local families.

Holly Springs Small Business Network

9:00 am–10:00 am | FREE | Bombshell Beer Company, Holly Springs

Local entrepreneurs, makers, and creatives meet to network and discuss small business growth in Holly Springs.

Chapel Hill Food Distribution Event

9:30 am | FREE | Eubanks Road Park & Ride Lot, Chapel Hill

A community-based food distribution event providing resources and groceries to families and individuals in need.

Total Tot Time — Kids Free Play

10:00 am–12:00 pm | FREE | W.D. Hill Recreation Center, Durham

A supervised free play experience for children up to age 5, featuring toys, movement, and parent interaction.

Board Game Night (Early Start)

12:00 pm–10:00 pm | FREE | Gizmo Brew Works, Durham

An all-day casual board game social with great brewery vibes — ideal for remote workers, game lovers, and friends.

🌿 Educational & Afternoon Events

Window on Animal Health

1:30 pm | FREE | Nature Research Center, NC Museum of Natural Sciences, Raleigh

Learn more about veterinary science, wildlife health, and research insights with this free educational program.

Menchie’s Celebrates Disney’s ‘Percy Jackson’

3:00 pm | FREE | Menchie’s Frozen Yogurt (multiple locations)

Get free frozen yogurt and toppings while celebrating Disney’s new Percy Jackson release — a fun family treat.

Board Game Night (Second Edition)

4:00 pm–10:00 pm | FREE | PourWorks Beer & Wine Shop, Raleigh

Another Triangle gaming session with relaxed community vibes and great beverages.

Illuminate Art Walk — Downtown Raleigh

4:45 pm | FREE | Downtown Raleigh

Walk through illuminated public art displays, creative lighting installations, murals, and holiday-themed activations.

🌌 Evening Events, Yoga, and Light Displays

Free Acro Yoga — Indoor

5:30 pm–8:30 pm | FREE | Pullen Park, Raleigh

A welcoming community acro yoga meetup — perfect for beginners or experienced participants.

Piper Lights

5:30 pm–9:00 pm | FREE | Wake Forest

A cheerful, family-friendly holiday light display featuring music, movement, and festive décor.

Contentnea Fire Department Holiday Lights

5:30 pm–9:00 pm | FREE | Wilson

A charming neighborhood display with community spirit and Christmas lights.

Lake Myra Christmas Lights

5:30 pm–10:00 pm | FREE | Wendell

One of the Triangle’s most impressive synchronized light shows — a regional favorite.

Poetry at The Plant

6:00 pm–7:00 pm | FREE | Fair Game Beverage Co., Pittsboro

Local poets and literary creatives gather for readings, reflection, storytelling, and warm beverages.

Crokinole

6:00 pm–8:00 pm | FREE | Blackbird Brewery, Wake Forest

A casual social meetup to learn and play the classic game of crokinole in a laid-back brewery environment.

North Carolina Chinese Lantern Festival

6:00 pm–10:00 pm | $16.74–$30.64 | Koka Booth Amphitheatre, Cary

Massive illuminated lanterns, cultural performances, and brilliant installations transform Cary into a glowing wonderland.

🎨 Creativity, Crafting & Community

Bring Your Own Craft Night

6:30 pm–9:30 pm | FREE | Raleigh Brewing, Raleigh

Bring knitting, embroidery, art journaling, or any portable project and connect with other creatives.

Jazz for the Holidays

7:00 pm | FREE | Eno River Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, Durham

A warm and seasonal community jazz concert to celebrate holiday melodies.

Triangle String Orchestra — Holiday Concert

7:00 pm | FREE | Carswell Auditorium, Meredith College, Raleigh

A beautiful showcase of local orchestral talent performing festive classics.

Raleigh Drum Circle & Hoop Jam

7:00 pm–8:30 pm | FREE | Method Road Park, Raleigh

An energetic outdoor gathering featuring drumming, movement, hoop dance, and community rhythm.

Stitch N’ Bitch Craft Night

7:00 pm–11:00 pm | FREE | Steel String Brewery, Carrboro

Bring a craft project, enjoy great beer, and unwind with fellow makers and creatives.

🎤 Trivia, Karaoke & Nightlife

Karaoke Night — Apex

8:00 pm–10:30 pm | FREE | The Backyard Bar, Apex

Sing, unwind, and enjoy an evening of community karaoke.

Weekly Skee Ball Tournament

8:00 pm–10:30 pm | FREE | Boxcar Bar + Arcade, Durham

Great for groups, competitive spirits, or casual arcade fun.

Karaoke at Moon Dog Meadery

8:00 pm–11:45 pm | FREE | Durham

Sip locally crafted mead and enjoy a festive karaoke night downtown.

Open Mic Week — Cary

8:00 pm | FREE | Abbey Road Cary

A creative showcase for musicians, poets, singers, and performers.

Beer Pong Tournament

8:30 pm–11:00 pm | FREE | Boxcar Bar & Arcade, Raleigh

Compete in a playful beer pong tournament with prizes and lively energy.

⭐ Your Triangle Wednesday Plan

Wednesday, December 10th offers free family programs, kid-friendly play time, brewery game nights, holiday lights, craft meetups, concerts, poetry hours, yoga events, and late-night arcade tournaments.

Whether you want fun for kids, a date night, creative community time, or nighttime adventure — the Triangle has something happening everywhere.

Stay Connected With DoRaleigh.com

You’ll find:

✔ Daily Triangle event guides

✔ Raleigh civic news and local coverage

✔ Cultural programs, art walks, and concerts

✔ Family activities and nightlife updates

✔ Holiday light displays and seasonal fun

Follow DoRaleigh.com for daily updates on government meetings, local festivals, and community happenings — your one-stop guide to everything in the Triangle!

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Happy Wednesday, Triangle!

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The Triangle Event Guide Saturday December 6th Edition

If you’re planning a festive Saturday around the Triangle, you’re in luck — today brings concerts, markets, parades, Santa sightings, food trucks, botanical strolls, comedy, seasonal light shows, and dozens of all-day experiences for every age. Whether you’re in Raleigh, Durham, Cary, Chapel Hill, or Wake Forest, the Triangle is glowing with winter magic, family fun, and seasonal culture.

From the Chatham Artists Guild Open Studio Tour and historic trolley tours to free cookies at the Museum of Durham History and multiple local holiday markets, consider this your one-stop Saturday planning guide.

🎄 All-Day & Morning Highlights

Holiday Kiln Opening at Mark Hewitt Pottery

10AM–5PM | FREE | Pittsboro

Browse handcrafted North Carolina pottery during an annual kiln opening — a local favorite perfect for holiday gifts.

Cary Gingerbread House Competition

All Day | FREE | Downtown Cary

Admire gingerbread creations from locals and pros alike.

Museums on Us (Bank of America)

Free admission for cardholders | Marbles Kids Museum, Raleigh

Bring your Bank of America card for free children’s museum entry.

Cars & Coffee Morrisville

8AM–11AM | Imperial Center, Durham | FREE

A lively morning meetup for auto lovers — classic, modern, exotic, and custom builds.

Durham Craft Market

8AM–12PM | Durham Central Park | FREE

Shop local makers outdoors before the afternoon rush.

Home Depot Kids Workshop: Holiday Cocoa Mug

9AM–12PM | FREE | Multiple Locations

Bring the kids for hands-on seasonal crafting.

🎅 Holiday Markets, Parades & Seasonal Pop-Ups

Youngsville Christmas Parade

10AM–11AM | FREE | Downtown Youngsville

Chapel Hill–Carrboro Community Parade

10AM | FREE | Carrboro Town Hall

Angier Christmas Parade

10AM | FREE | Depot Square

MAKRS Holiday Fest

11AM–6PM | FREE | City Plaza, Raleigh

Jolly Raleigh Holiday Market

11AM–5PM | FREE | Raleigh Iron Works

Durham Holiday Patchwork Market

12PM–4PM | FREE | Durham Armory

Merry Market at Boxyard RTP

11AM–3PM | FREE | RTP

Victorian Christmas at Page-Walker

2PM–5PM | FREE | Cary

🎁 Santa Sightings, Photos & Family Fun

Wake Forest Photos with Santa — 10AM–3PM – FREE Santa at Yates Mill — 10AM–6PM – FREE Storytime with Santa — 2PM–4PM – FREE at Boxyard RTP Santa on the Roof — The Durham Hotel — 11AM–2PM – FREE Pictures with Santa — Cary Park — 10AM–5PM – FREE Santa at Garner Tractor Supply — 5PM–9PM – FREE Santa at Lake Myra Christmas Lights — 7PM–9PM – FREE Petco: Free Pet Photos with Santa — 2PM–4PM – FREE

🌿 Arts, Heritage & History Experiences

Joel Lane Museum House — Colonial Christmas Open House

11AM–3PM | FREE | Raleigh

Historic Raleigh Trolley Tours

11AM–3PM | $6–10 | Mordecai Historic Park

African American Walking Tour – Third Ward

All Day | $5–10 | Pope House, Raleigh

Jonkonnu at Stagville

4:30PM | FREE | Durham

Celebrate an African American holiday tradition with music, drumming, and storytelling.

🎡 Seasonal Lights & Outdoor Experiences

The RINK — Ice Skating at Red Hat Amphitheater

All Day | $6–15 | Raleigh

Illuminate Art Walk

4:45PM | FREE | Downtown Raleigh

Lake Myra Christmas Lights (Wendell)

5:30PM–10PM | FREE

Piper Lights (Wake Forest)

5:30PM–10PM | FREE

Contentnea Fire Department Christmas Lights

5:30PM–9PM | FREE | Wilson

Phillips Farms Christmas Light Show

5PM–9PM | $15 | Cary

Lights on the Neuse — Holiday Hayride

6PM–9PM | $11 | Clayton

North Carolina Chinese Lantern Festival

6PM–10PM | $16.74–$30.64 | Koka Booth Amphitheatre, Cary

🎤 Saturday Afternoon & Evening Highlights

Free Improv Comedy

6PM–8PM | FREE | Holly Springs

Live Music Across the Triangle

Blackbird Brewery — 6PM–9PM Fortnight Brewing — 6PM–9PM Southern Peak Brewery — 6:30PM–9PM Williams House Craft Taproom — 7PM–10PM Fainting Goat Brewing — 7PM–10PM Sacred Grounds Coffeehouse — 7:30PM Bearded Bee Brewing — 7PM Holly Springs, Apex, Selma, Wendell — karaoke & performances into late night

Oddville – Art Show of the Awesomely Strange

6PM | $10–15 | The Fruit, Durham

🍻 Nightlife, Comedy & Late Festivities

Ugly Sweater Karaoke Party

7:30PM | FREE | Sneaky Penguin Brewing, Raleigh

Boots & Brewz (Country Night)

8PM–Midnight | FREE | The Fall Line, Zebulon

Live Comedy + Craft Beer

7PM–9PM | FREE | The Beerded Lady Bottle Shop, Garner

Plan Your Perfect Triangle Saturday

Whether you’re exploring holiday light displays, enjoying family markets, grabbing free Santa photos, or heading to local breweries for live music, today is packed with over 100 experiences across the Triangle.

Bookmark this guide → share it with friends → and enjoy a full day of festive local life!

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➡️ Daily event schedules

➡️ Government meeting guides

➡️ Holiday markets & seasonal highlights

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Triangle Event Guide Friday December 5th Edition

If you’re looking for the most complete list of Friday events across the Triangle, you’ve found it. Friday, December 5, 2025 is bursting with holiday lights, tree lightings, First Friday art walks, outdoor skating, free Santa photos, parades, wine tastings, immersive theatre, and dozens of festive community activities from dawn to late night.

Whether you’re planning a family outing, a date night, a neighborhood adventure, or a free community event for all ages, this guide highlights the best things to do across Raleigh, Durham, Cary, Chapel Hill, Apex, Fuquay-Varina, Holly Springs, Knightdale, and more.

Scroll below for times, locations, cost, recommendations, and where to go next.

ALL-DAY HIGHLIGHTS

Free Santa Photos at Bass Pro Shops – Santa’s Wonderland

📅 All Day | FREE

📍 Bass Pro Shops, Multiple Locations

Get free Santa photos and activities all day long at Santa’s Wonderland. This is one of the Triangle’s most beloved holiday offerings—families return every year for the workshop décor, crafts, and festive photo ops.

The RINK — Outdoor Skating at Red Hat Amphitheater

📅 All Day | $6 – $15

📍 Red Hat Amphitheater, Raleigh

Skate under the skyline at downtown Raleigh’s pop-up outdoor rink. Pricing varies by age and time slot, so check website for session availability.

MORNING & DAYTIME EVENTS

Sculpture in the Garden

⏰ 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. | FREE (with $5 suggested donation)

📍 North Carolina Botanical Garden, Chapel Hill

Explore nature, seasonal plants, and outdoor art installations in a peaceful, garden environment.

Free Cookies and Cider

⏰ 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. | FREE

📍 Museum of Durham History

Warm up with cider and cookies while exploring Durham’s unique stories and exhibits.

Free Walking Tour of Chapel Hill

⏰ 10:30 a.m. | FREE

📍 Morehead Planetarium, Chapel Hill

Perfect for local history fans, college visitors, and curious residents alike.

Chapel Hill Public Library Big Book Sale (Members Only)

⏰ 2 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. | FREE

📍 Chapel Hill Public Library

Enjoy exclusive early access to one of the Triangle’s biggest book bargains. Members can bring one guest.

LATE AFTERNOON & FIRST FRIDAY ACTIVITIES

Sensory-Friendly Hour at Artspace

⏰ 4 – 5 p.m. | FREE

📍 Artspace, Raleigh

A calm First Friday experience designed for neurodivergent adults and kids.

Apex Tree Lighting

⏰ 4:30 – 7 p.m. | FREE

📍 Apex Historic Depot

Kids’ crafts, hot cocoa, music, and a town tree lighting in historic downtown Apex.

Illuminate Art Walk

⏰ 4:45 p.m. | FREE

📍 Downtown Raleigh

Enjoy glowing art installations, music, and downtown holiday magic.

Santa’s Workshop — Smithfield

⏰ 5 – 8 p.m. | FREE

📍 Johnston County Courthouse, Smithfield

Enjoy crafts, photos, and festive family workshops.

Wake Forest Lighting of the Tree

⏰ 5 – 8 p.m. | FREE

📍 Centennial Plaza, Wake Forest Town Hall

Pints in the Pines

⏰ 5 – 8 p.m. | FREE

📍 Oak City Brewing, Knightdale

Live music, local brews, and outdoor winter vibes.

Festive Fridays: Holiday Lights

⏰ 5 – 8 p.m. | FREE

📍 Gipson Play Plaza, Dix Park, Raleigh

Bring the family and enjoy a winter-lit wonderland.

Santa Paws

⏰ 5 – 8:30 p.m. | FREE

📍 Durham Armory

Pet-friendly holiday portraits and festive décor.

Wendell Wonderland

⏰ 5 – 9 p.m. | FREE

📍 Downtown Wendell

Live music, holiday lights, food trucks, and the town’s biggest Christmas celebration.

Free Immersive Performance — A Peter Rabbit Christmas

⏰ 5 p.m. | FREE

📍 Downtown Cary Park

Experience a storytelling holiday adventure for kids.

First Friday — Downtown Fuquay-Varina

⏰ 5 – 9 p.m. | FREE

📍 Downtown Fuquay-Varina

Phillips Farms Walk-Through Christmas Light Show

⏰ 5 – 9 p.m. | $15

📍 Phillips Farms of Cary

Thousands of lights, holiday displays, and festive photo ops.

EVENING HOLIDAY LIGHTS, TREE LIGHTINGS & PARADES

Youngsville Tree Lighting

⏰ 5:30 – 8:30 p.m. | FREE

📍 Luddy Park, Youngsville

Christmas by Candlelight

⏰ 5:30 – 9 p.m. | $8

📍 Duke Homestead

Historic candlelit tours and colonial-era holiday traditions.

Holiday Nights at American Tobacco

⏰ 5:30 – 8:30 p.m. | FREE

📍 American Tobacco Campus, Durham

Contentnea Fire Department Christmas Lights

⏰ 5:30 – 9 p.m. | FREE

📍 Wilson, NC

Lake Myra Christmas Lights

⏰ 5:30 – 10 p.m. | FREE

📍 Wendell

Piper Lights

⏰ 5:30 – 10 p.m. | FREE

📍 Wake Forest

Carrboro Holiday Tree Lighting

⏰ 6 – 7 p.m. | FREE

📍 Carrboro Town Commons

Knightdale Christmas Tree Lighting

⏰ 6 – 8 p.m. | FREE

📍 Knightdale Station Park

Brier Creek Tree Lighting

⏰ 6 – 8 p.m. | FREE

📍 Brier Creek Commons

Walk Through Bethlehem

⏰ 6 – 8 p.m. | FREE

📍 Wake Forest Presbyterian Church

Christmas on the Square — Angier

⏰ 6 – 8:30 p.m. | FREE

📍 Angier Depot Square

Grow Local Realty Coat Drive & Live Music

⏰ 6 – 9 p.m. | FREE

📍 Bombshell Beer, Holly Springs

EVENING ARTS, MUSIC & NIGHTLIFE

Teen Science Café

⏰ 6 – 7 p.m. | FREE

📍 Nature Research Center, Raleigh

First Friday Gallery Walk (Raleigh)

⏰ 6 – 9 p.m. | FREE

📍 Various Locations

Lights on the Neuse — Hayride

⏰ 6 – 9 p.m. | $11

📍 Boyette Family Farms, Clayton

Artspace First Friday

⏰ 6 – 10 p.m. | FREE

📍 Artspace, Raleigh

Live painting, local makers, music, craft workshops.

Chinese Lantern Festival

⏰ 6 – 10 p.m. | $16.74 – $30.64

📍 Koka Booth Amphitheatre, Cary

Free Wine Tasting

⏰ 6 p.m. | FREE

📍 Local 919, Raleigh

Christmas Lights on the Farm

⏰ 6:30 – 9 p.m. | $15

📍 Big Daddy’s Farms, Middlesex

Mebane Christmas Parade

⏰ 7 – 9 p.m. | FREE

📍 Downtown Mebane

Sip & Shop Book Sale

⏰ 7 – 9 p.m. | FREE

📍 Chapel Hill Public Library

Bounce & Brews DJ Night

⏰ 7 – 9 p.m. | FREE

📍 Gizmo Brew Works, Durham

Hoppy Hour Cinema

⏰ 7 – 10 p.m. | FREE

📍 Glass Jug Taproom, Durham

Video Game Night

⏰ 7 – 11 p.m. | FREE

📍 Moon Dog Meadery, Durham

Peter Rabbit — Evening Performance

⏰ 7:30 p.m. | FREE

📍 Downtown Cary Park

Stand-Up Comedy Open Mic

⏰ 8 – 11 p.m. | FREE

📍 Durty Bull Brewing, Durham

Karaoke with Mega Mike

⏰ 8 – 11 p.m. | FREE

📍 Crank Arm Brewing, Raleigh

A Good Time — Comedy Showcase

⏰ 8 p.m. | FREE

📍 Vault Craft Beer, Raleigh

Karaoke Bingo

⏰ 9 p.m. | FREE

📍 KōMANA Brewing, Cary

THE BEST WAY TO USE THIS GUIDE

✔ Perfect for families, couples, and visitors

✔ Great for holiday photo sessions and tree lightings

✔ Multiple First Friday gallery walks and art events

✔ Tons of FREE options — very budget-friendly

✔ Community-focused events from small towns to downtown nightlife

FOLLOW DoRaleigh.com FOR TOMORROW’S GUIDE

Stay tuned for:

Weekend event guides City council updates Holiday markets & parades Raleigh food events Triangle arts, culture, and nightlife

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Triangle Event Guide Friday November 28th Edition

Looking for the best things to do across Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill, and the greater Triangle this Friday? From holiday markets and pottery openings to dazzling light shows and evening art walks, November 28, 2025 is packed with festive family fun and unique local experiences. Here’s your complete Triangle Event Guide for the day.

🎄 All-Day & Morning Events

Holiday Kiln Opening at Mark Hewitt Pottery

10:00 am – 5:00 pm | FREE | Pittsboro

A seasonal favorite returns! Browse handcrafted pottery, meet the artist, and shop beautiful holiday pieces at Mark Hewitt’s renowned kiln opening.

Free Santa Photos at Bass Pro Shops: Santa’s Wonderland

All Day | FREE | Multiple Locations

Families can enjoy free Santa photos, crafts, and festive activities inside Bass Pro’s immersive holiday setup.

The RINK – Outdoor Skating at Red Hat Amphitheater

All Day | $6–15 | Raleigh

Lace up and skate under the skyline at Raleigh’s open-air winter rink. Click event listing for daily schedule.

Sheetz: Free Coffee with Any Purchase

All Day | FREE | Multiple Locations

Warm up with a complimentary coffee all Thanksgiving Week with any purchase at participating Sheetz stores.

Christmas Carousel Holiday Gift Market

9:00 am – 6:00 pm | $0–10 | State Fairgrounds

Shop 250+ vendors offering décor, gifts, crafts, local goods, and seasonal treats. A holiday tradition at the Jim Graham Building.

Sculpture in the Garden

9:00 am – 5:00 pm | FREE ($5 suggested donation) | Chapel Hill

Stroll through the North Carolina Botanical Garden’s tranquil outdoor art exhibit.

🍂 Midday Events & Family Activities

Family Fall Tours at Historic Oakwood Cemetery

11:00 am & 1:00 pm | FREE ($10 suggested donation) | Raleigh

Learn the history, stories, and architecture behind Raleigh’s historic Oakwood Cemetery during these guided walking tours.

SmashFest at The Scrap Exchange

2:00 pm – 6:00 pm | FREE | Durham

Break stuff for stress relief! Admission is free; participants pay for “smashables.”

Calvin Jones House Guided Tour

2:00 pm – 2:45 pm | FREE | Wake Forest Historical Museum

Step inside the birthplace of Wake Forest College on this short, docent-led history tour.

DJ Al Ski-Love Live at Blackbird Brewery

3:00 pm – 6:00 pm | FREE | Wake Forest

Kick off your weekend with a fun DJ set, craft brews, and good vibes.

Kick Off to Christmas in Smithfield

3:00 pm – 8:00 pm | FREE | Downtown Smithfield

A family-friendly festival featuring a tree lighting, vendors, music, holiday characters, and kids’ activities.

Bazaar Night Market

4:00 pm – 9:00 pm | FREE | Pittsboro

Shop local makers, enjoy food trucks, and soak in the nighttime market ambiance at bmc brewing.

Contentnea Fire Department Christmas Light Display

5:30 pm – 9:00 pm | FREE | Wilson

Drive through a brilliant small-town light show created by the local fire department.

Piper Lights in Wake Forest

5:30 pm – 10:00 pm | FREE | Wake Forest

A beloved family-run Christmas light walk-through returns for the season.

Lake Myra Christmas Lights

5:30 pm – 10:00 pm | FREE | Wendell

One of the region’s largest synchronized light shows—always a holiday must-see.

Lights on the Neuse Hayride

6:00 pm – 9:00 pm | $11 | Clayton

Take a cozy hayride through glittering holiday light displays at Boyette Family Farms.

The Little Market: Closing Reception for “Organics”

6:00 pm – 9:00 pm | FREE | Hillsborough

Celebrate the final night of this nature-inspired art exhibition with local artists.

🌙 Evening Art, Music & Nightlife

Vinyl Night

6:00 pm | FREE | Sneaky Penguin Brewing Co., Raleigh

Bring your favorite records or spin from the house collection.

Final Friday Reception at Cary Gallery of Artists

6:00 pm – 8:00 pm | FREE | Cary

Meet artists, explore new works, and enjoy refreshments during Cary’s Final Friday celebration.

Last Fridays Art Walk – Hillsborough

6:00 pm – 9:00 pm | FREE

Live music, gallery openings, outdoor vendors, and a vibrant small-town art scene.

Final Friday Cary Art Loop

6:00 pm – 9:00 pm | FREE

Participating venues across Cary stay open late for art, exhibits, and cultural programming.

North Carolina Chinese Lantern Festival

6:00 pm – 10:00 pm | $16.74–30.64 | Koka Booth Amphitheatre

A dazzling festival of illuminated sculptures, cultural performances, and photo-worthy installations.

Free Wine Tasting at Local 919

6:00 pm | FREE | Raleigh

Sample a curated selection of wines at this Raleigh bottle shop.

Christmas Lights on the Farm

6:30 pm – 9:00 pm | $15 | Big Daddy’s Farms, Middlesex

Walk through glowing farm displays and meet holiday characters.

Chime In Open Mic

6:30 pm – 8:00 pm | FREE | Lanza’s Cafe, Carrboro

Poetry, stories, songs—share your art or enjoy the creativity of others.

Screening: The Last Waltz

7:00 pm – 9:00 pm | FREE | Steel String Brewery, Carrboro

A classic film on the big screen inside a cozy taproom.

Live Music: Jim DiBattista

7:00 pm – 9:30 pm | FREE | White Street Brewing, Wake Forest

Hoppy Hour Cinema at The Glass Jug

7:00 pm – 10:00 pm | FREE | Downtown Durham

Weekly movie series featuring cult classics, favorites, and new gems.

Bounce and Brews DJ Night

7:00 pm – 9:00 pm | FREE | Gizmo Brew Works, Durham

Live Band Karaoke

7:00 pm – 10:00 pm | $10 | Mystic Farm & Distillery, Durham

Sing your heart out backed by a full live band—ticket includes one cocktail.

Video Game Night at Moon Dog Meadery

7:00 pm – 11:00 pm | FREE | Durham

Stand-Up Comedy Open Mic

8:00 pm – 11:00 pm | FREE | Durty Bull Brewing Co., Durham

Karaoke with Mega Mike

8:00 pm – 11:00 pm | FREE | Crank Arm Brewing, Raleigh

Karaoke Bingo Nights

9:00 pm | FREE | KōMANA Brewing, Cary

🔎 Plan Your Triangle Weekend

From pottery and light shows to art walks and live music, the Triangle is bursting with things to do this Friday. Bookmark this guide, share it with friends, and explore more weekly entertainment updates at DoRaleigh.com.

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The Triangle Weekend Event Guide Saturday November 22nd Edition

The Triangle is buzzing with festive energy this weekend! Whether you’re looking for holiday markets, parades, family activities, turkey giveaways, live music, or unique local experiences, Saturday, November 22, 2025 is packed with events from morning to night. Here’s your complete Triangle Weekend Event Guide to help you plan the perfect Saturday—and a look at what’s coming on Sunday.

🎄 Major Highlight: Raleigh Christmas Parade

⏰ 9:30 AM – 11:30 AM

📍 Downtown Raleigh

💵 FREE

One of the largest holiday parades in the Southeast returns with marching bands, giant balloons, dance troupes, local organizations, and Santa himself. Arrive early to secure your spot along Fayetteville Street!

❄️ All-Day Events

The RINK: Outdoor Skating at Red Hat Amphitheater

All Day | $6–15 | Raleigh

Skate under the skyline at Raleigh’s outdoor rink—great for families, date nights, and holiday photos.

Santa’s Wonderland at Bass Pro Shops

All Day | FREE | Multiple Locations

Enjoy free Santa photos, crafts, and festive activities.

African American Walking Tour – Raleigh’s Third Ward

All Day | $5–10 | Pope House Museum, Raleigh

Explore Raleigh’s rich history through three guided tours running throughout the day.

🌅 Morning Events (8 AM – 12 PM)

Durham Craft Market

8 AM – 12 PM | FREE | Durham Central Park

Shop handmade goods, meet local artisans, and enjoy one of Durham’s most cherished open-air markets.

Parking Lot Yard Sale at Peel Gallery

9 AM – 10 AM | FREE | Carrboro

Wake Forest Police Department Turkey Drive Drop-Off

9 AM – 12 PM | FREE | WF Police Substation

Passmore Center Holiday Market

9 AM – 2 PM | FREE | Hillsborough

Silver Bells Craft Bazaar

9 AM – 2 PM | FREE | St. Andrews UMC, Raleigh

Yuletide Breakfast with Santa

9 AM | FREE | Bass Pro Shops

(Reservations required; limited seating)

Sculpture in the Garden

9 AM – 5 PM | FREE (suggested $5 donation)

North Carolina Botanical Garden, Chapel Hill

🎁 Midday Events (10 AM – 3 PM)

Thanksgiving Meal Giveaway

10 AM – 1 PM | FREE | Revelation Missionary Baptist Church, Raleigh

Raleigh Inclusive Market

10 AM – 2 PM | FREE | The Legacy Center, Raleigh

A Day at Hogwarts

10 AM – 3 PM | FREE | The Studio, Apex

A magical event for families and Harry Potter fans.

Durham Art Walk Holiday Market

10 AM – 5 PM | FREE | Durham Arts Council

Family Volunteer Day – Marbles Kids Museum

10 AM | FREE | Raleigh

(Registration required; space limited)

Visit Cow Sanctuary

10 AM – 2 PM | $0–25 | Brajboro Cow Sanctuary, Chapel Hill

Bluegrass Jam – Bynum Front Porch

10 AM | FREE | Pittsboro

🦃 Late-Morning to Afternoon (11 AM – 3 PM)

Thanksgiving Turkey Giveaway (Wake County Sheriff’s Office x Mt. Moriah)

11 AM – 1 PM | FREE | Mount Moriah Community Church, Raleigh

Pauli Murray Birthday Celebration

11 AM – 2 PM | FREE | Durham

Green Road Vendor Fair

11 AM – 2 PM | FREE | Raleigh

Old Hillsborough Road Market

11 AM – 3 PM | FREE | Bennett Place State Historic Site

Angier Winter Holiday Market & Food Truck Rodeo

11 AM – 3 PM | FREE | Jack Marley Park

30th Annual American Indian Heritage Celebration

11 AM – 4 PM | FREE | NC Museum of Art, Raleigh

Sensory-Friendly Film: Aladdin

11 AM | FREE | Carolina Theatre, Durham

Turkey Giveaway – A.S. Hunter Lodge

11 AM | FREE | Durham

Thanksgiving Turkey Giveaway – Wave Church Ministries

11 AM | FREE | Durham

Ponysaurus Wonderland Lighting

11 AM | FREE | Raleigh

Historic Raleigh Trolley Tours

11 AM – 3 PM | $6–10 | Mordecai Historic Park

Free Guided Tour of the NC State Capitol

11 AM | FREE | Raleigh

🎨 Afternoon & Evening Events

Grinchmas Holiday Market

12 PM – 5 PM | FREE | Hi-Wire Brewing, Durham

Thanksgiving Block Party & Turkey Giveaway (Hot 97.9)

12 PM | FREE | Raleigh

College Football Saturdays

12 PM – 10 PM | FREE | Apex

Family Volunteer Day – Marbles (Second Session)

12:30 PM | FREE | Raleigh

Digital Ambassador Tech Help

1 PM – 3 PM | FREE | Green Road Community Center

Saturday Comedy Improv Jam

1 PM – 3 PM | FREE | Durham

The Great Pup-Kin Market

2 PM – 5 PM | FREE | The Longleaf Hotel, Raleigh

Farm Day at The Mason Jar Lager Company

2 PM | FREE | Fuquay-Varina

Calvin Jones House Guided Tour

2 PM – 2:45 PM | FREE | Wake Forest

Cary Really Really Free Market

2 PM – 4 PM | FREE | Cary

NC State Capitol Guided Tour (Second Tour)

2 PM | FREE | Raleigh

Light the Square at Fenton

3 PM – 7 PM | FREE | Cary

🎵 Evening & Nightlife

Common Woman Chorus Fall Concert

3 PM & 7 PM | $0–30 | Durham

Christmas at North Hills – Tree Lighting

4 PM – 7 PM | FREE | Raleigh

Messiah Sing-Along

4 PM | FREE | Durham

Live Music: Taylor Sheiss

5 PM – 8 PM | FREE | Knightdale

Contentnea FD Christmas Light Display

5:30 PM – 9 PM | FREE | Wilson

Winter Wonderland – Park West Village

5:30 PM – 8:30 PM | FREE | Morrisville

Funniest Person in the Triangle – Free Improv

6 PM – 8 PM | FREE | Holly Springs

Live Music (Various Breweries)

6 PM – 10 PM | FREE | Wake Forest, Cary, Holly Springs

NC Chinese Lantern Festival

6 PM – 10 PM | $16–30 | Cary

Friendsgiving Potluck

7 PM | FREE | PourWorks, Raleigh

Karaoke Nights

7 PM – 10 PM | FREE | Raleigh, Selma

City Folk Live Music

7:30 PM | FREE | Durham

🌤️ Sunday Preview — November 23, 2025

A lighter but festive Sunday with highlights including:

Santa’s Wonderland (Free photos all day) The RINK (Outdoor Skating) Durham Underground Market Black Farmers’ Market at Southeast Raleigh YMCA Winter Wonderland at Park West Village Artspace Open Studio African American Walking Tour Secret Cinema Sundays NC Chinese Lantern Festival Open Mic & Live Music across the Triangle

A perfect day to shop local, support community markets, and enjoy holiday experiences.

✨ Final Thoughts

From parades and holiday markets to turkey giveaways, live music, and cultural celebrations, the Triangle is overflowing with things to do this Saturday. Whether you’re exploring Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill, Cary, Pittsboro, or Wake Forest—there’s truly something for everyone.

Follow DoRaleigh.com for daily updates on government meetings, local festivals, and community happenings — your one-stop guide to everything in the Triangle!

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#arts #cary #craftMarkets #durham #events #familyActivities #food #historicalTours #holidayMarkets #liveMusic #music #news #outdoorSkating #parades #raleigh #santaPhotos #triangleEventsGuide #turkeyGiveaways

🎅🌴The pics are here! Milford’s Christmas in July brought joy, sun, and Santa! I offered free portraits to 25 families in 2 hours, with help from my wife, daughter, and studio lights. Check out highlights, download your photo, or peek behind the scenes: https://zorz.it/xmasjuly

#ChristmasInJuly #ZorzStudios #SantaPhotos #FreePortraits #MilfordPA #GetZorzed