The Best Heartwarming Holiday Plans! DTR 2023
Whether you've been naughty or nice, downtown Raleigh is prepped and primed to show us a jolly good time this holiday season! This blog will dive into a few key upcoming events on our radar. Have a BLAST and make the most of it, as we begin to close up chapter ‘23. Cheers!
Tree Lighting When: Friday, Nov. 17, 5:30-8 p.m. | Where: City Plaza
Kick off the holiday season at the annual DTR Tree Lighting! The community will gather in City Plaza as the switch is flipped to illuminate a stunning Christmas tree. It sets the stage for a month filled with joy, festivities, and peace. What to expect: Santa Claus meet-and-greet, food trucks, decorating your own mini Christmas tree with Urban Pothos, live music performances, a local vendor market, beer & wine for sale by Crank Arm Brewing, The Hippo Wine Bar, and Raleigh Wine Shop (Sip N' Stroll drinks available as well).
The Raleigh Christmas Parade When: Saturday, Nov. 18, 9:30 a.m. | Where: Route
On the heels of the tree lighting, don't miss the Raleigh Christmas Parade, which happens to be the largest Christmas parade between Washington, D.C., and Atlanta!! Grab yourself a spot along the route and enjoy music, colorful artwork and dancing, and, of course, the arrival of Santa Claus himself. It's traditional, it summarizes the spirit of the season, and it’s an absolute must if you’ve never been before.
The RINK When: Open through January, see hours | Where: Red Hat Amphitheater
Lacing up some ice skates and twirling under the stars as the Shimmer Wall glistens behind you, is pretty dreamy. I mean, come on, outdoor ice skating with the smell of oak trees in the air? Too good! New this year will be an igloo lounge experience for up to six people, cozy stations with outdoor lounging furniture and heat warmers, fire pits, a 20-foot decorated holiday tree, and themed nights like Throwback Thursday and Flannel Friday.
Elf The Musical When: Dec. 9-17 | Where: Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts
This one’s fun for the entire family. Have a hilarious night and go see this musical that follows everyone’s favorite holiday film. Buddy, suspiciously tall for an elf, sets out from the North Pole to find his real father in New York City. Along the way, he helps New York remember the true meaning of Christmas. LIVE!
The Nutcracker When: Dec. 14-24 | Where: Raleigh Memorial Auditorium
Feeling fancy? A night at the ballet is in order, y’all. The Carolina Ballet’s The Nutcracker will bring back memories of past childhood Christmases that are still relevant for children and families today. The experience takes you out of everyday life and into a world of wonder, and it’s lovely.
The Dessertery When: Nov. 19-Dec. 23 see hours | Where: Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts
After all the holiday festivities, indulge your sweet tooth at The Dessertery. This charming celebration of desserts offers a delectable array of treats, from festive cookies to decadent cakes. It’s located in the lobby of the MMC for Performing Arts, so treat yourself and your loved ones to a delightful post-event dessert experience.
Holiday Express When: Nov. 29-Dec. 15 | Where: Pullen Park
All aboard the Holiday Express! This event is a HOT commodity for families in the area. Tickets for 2023 were sold out in hours. But, it’s a great thing to keep in mind for next year if you missed it! Find an abundance of festive fun at this family-friendly event: train rides, holiday crafts, a visit from Santa himself, and a lot more.
A Shopping SPREE! When: Nov. 30-Dec. 3 | Where: NC State Fairgrounds
The Junior League of Raleigh is back with the 39th Annual A Shopping SPREE this year! More than 100 vendors make it out for this annual shopping extravaganza. You can find apparel, jewelry, home décor, unique gifts, holiday items, specialty foods, and more at this event. The League has donated over $6 million to programs that impact our community, so it’s an amazing way to knock out some holiday gifting, while doing something of goodwill too.