City of Raleigh Event Guide Weekend Edition (December 12–14, 2025)
From holiday trolley rides to cultural celebrations and community book fairs, the City of Raleigh is hosting a full slate of family-friendly events this weekend. Here’s your complete guide to what’s happening Friday through Sunday across Raleigh parks, recreation centers, and community spaces.
Whether you’re looking to kick off the holiday season, explore cultural traditions, or enjoy a relaxed Sunday afternoon, these City-supported events offer something for all ages.
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📅 Friday, December 12, 2025
🎅 Santa’s Trolley
5:00 PM | Friday
Category: Parks, Recreation, and Athletics
Hop aboard Santa’s Trolley for a festive evening ride through Raleigh. This popular holiday experience is perfect for families and requires advance registration.
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🌍 Winter Celebrations Around the World
5:00 PM | Friday
Categories: Festivals & Special Events, Holidays, Parks, Recreation, and Athletics
Celebrate global holiday traditions with music, activities, and cultural experiences from around the world. This event highlights the diversity of Raleigh’s community through festive programming.
Registration: Required via RecLink
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❄️ Moore Square Winterfaire
5:00 PM | Friday
Categories: Festivals & Special Events, Parks, Recreation, and Athletics
Moore Square transforms into a winter destination with seasonal activities, entertainment, and holiday cheer in the heart of downtown Raleigh.
Details: View schedule for programming times
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🎶 Soulful Holiday Open House
5:30 PM | Friday
Categories: Festivals & Special Events, Holidays, Parks, Recreation, and Athletics
Kick off the weekend with soulful sounds and holiday spirit at this welcoming open house celebrating community, music, and seasonal joy.
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📅 Saturday, December 13, 2025
🎁 RYC Santa’s Workshop
10:00 AM | Saturday
Category: Parks, Recreation, and Athletics
Kids can enjoy hands-on holiday fun at Santa’s Workshop, hosted by Raleigh Youth Centers. Activities are designed for creativity, joy, and holiday memories.
Registration: Required via RecLink
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🏠 Holiday Open House
10:00 AM | Saturday
Category: Parks, Recreation, and Athletics
Stop by for a festive open house featuring seasonal décor, family activities, and community engagement at a City of Raleigh facility.
Registration: Required via RecLink
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📅 Sunday, December 14, 2025
☕ La Chocolatada de Luisito
1:00 PM | Sunday
Categories: Holidays, Parks, Recreation, and Athletics
Warm up your Sunday with this beloved holiday tradition featuring hot chocolate and cultural celebration in a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere.
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📚 African American Book Fair
2:00 PM | Sunday
Category: Parks, Recreation, and Athletics
Celebrate African American literature, authors, and culture at this community book fair highlighting storytelling, education, and creativity.
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❌ Canceled: Jazz on the Greene
4:00 PM | Sunday
This event has been canceled. We’ll share updates if it is rescheduled.
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🎅 Santa’s Trolley
5:00 PM | Sunday
Category: Parks, Recreation, and Athletics
Missed the Friday ride? Santa’s Trolley returns Sunday evening for another chance to enjoy this festive experience.
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🎄 Plan Your Weekend in Raleigh
These City of Raleigh events are part of a broader effort to create accessible, inclusive, and festive programming throughout the holiday season. Be sure to register in advance where required and arrive early for popular activities.
👉 Check back on DoRaleigh.com for daily City of Raleigh event guides, downtown happenings, and weekend updates.
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