Things to do in Raleigh this Weekend
Hearts, bellies, stockings, and calendars are full this time of year. Whether you’re looking to entertain out-of-towners, or enjoy your own city like a tourist, Raleigh has fun stuff going on that you won’t want to miss! Check out our handpicked recommendations for this weekend.
Carolina Ballet’s Nutcracker: Duke Energy Center. Dinner and a show, anyone? Our favorite way to spend a night like this: indulging in a decadent pasta dinner at Caffe Luna, experiencing the beautiful ballet, and then heading over for a nightcap in a moody atmosphere at Watt’s and Ward. Featuring a beautiful live symphony, this show honors tradition while adapting for new audiences.
Ugly Sweater Party: The Avenue Raleigh, Saturday, Dec. 17, 6-10 p.m. This could be the most festive party on the books this year! Professional photo ops, a snow machine, curated holiday drinks, and pizza will be offered up to all. Wear an ugly sweater, pregame with friends at Morgan Street Food Hall, then head two blocks over for the fun! Grab your tickets at the link above.
The Dessertery: Duke Energy Center. The Dessertery features Downtown’s largest hot cocoa bar and signature drinks that will leave you feeling spirited, for real. Spend an afternoon admiring elaborate holiday decor and sampling a spread of hand-crafted sweets. This event is family friendly, and makes happy campers out of all.
Miracle at The Haymaker, The Haymaker. Grab your friends, throw on a festive outfit, and hit the town to check out this Christmas themed pop-up bar on Fayetteville Street. It’s an over-the-top lounge where you’ll spend the evening delighting in themed cocktails. The enchanting setting provides a lovely context for catching up with friends.
Ice Skating at The RINK, Red Hat Amphitheater. Picture this: the shimmer wall is glittering in the distance, the 20-foot tree is shining, hot cocoa is hot, the ice is fresh, your eyes meet…we love the moment! Things like this make the cold weather not so bad. Show off your spins and tricks with this wintertime favorite activity.
Selfies with Santa, The Pit Authentic Barbecue, Saturday, Dec. 17, 2- 4 p.m. Arts and crafts for the kids, hot cocoa and barbecue for all, and selfies with Santa to top it all off. You can’t miss this cuteness! Pro tip: stroll over to Father & Son’s or the NCMA Museum Store Pop Up at CAM for some Christmas shopping afterwards.
WRAL Nights of Lights, Dorothea Dix Park, Drive-through five magical light shows as your car transports you to the North Pole. Mighty oak trees draped in dazzling lights, art installations, visits with Mr. and Mrs. Claus, and lots of photo ops are what to expect here.
Wishing you all a holly, jolly Raleigh weekend packed with love and fun. Get out there and enjoy!