The Research Triangle is consistently ranked as one of the best places to live in the US and you can certainly see why, during the holidays. Whether you celebrate Hanukah, Christmas, or Kwanza, or are old or young, there are many ways to enjoy the lights and spirit of the holidays in the Raleigh Durham area. Here are some of our favorite holiday events. Have a Merry Season and if you are considering buying or selling a home in The Triangle, please reach out to My NC Homes.
North Carolina Chinese Lantern Festival, Cary
Running until January 8, the Chinese Lantern Festival is back at the Cary Koko Booth Amphitheatre. With hundreds of thousands of LED lights, 40 new hand crafted displays, these lantern displays are quite literally dazzling. Cultural performances will take place nightly. Purchase tickets and learn more here.
Jingle Bell Run Raleigh, Run for Arthritis Foundation
Saturday December 17 in Cary, you can break up the holiday eating and raise money for a great cause. The jingle run can be done timed or untimed and there is a kids run. The run benefits the Arthritis Foundation and entrance fees are from 40-50. Purchase here.
Apex Chanukah Festival
The Apex Chanukah Festival is Sunday December 18 and includes lots of lights, kosher food truck, holiday crafts and games, and a fire show. This is a great event in a really wonderful downtown. It is completely free! See more here.
Cary's Annual Kwaanzaa Festival 
The Cary Arts Center is holding a Kwanza festival December 20, 12-5pm. Events include drumming demonstrations and classes for kids and much more celebrating the people and culture of Africa. See more here!
The Nutcracker by Carolina Ballet
The Carolina Ballet puts on a classic rendition of The Nutcracker ballet. With a live symphony orchestra at the Raleigh Memorial auditorium, this version of Tchaikovsky's Nutcracker is sure to delight and inspire. It is one of our favorite traditions. See more here.
A Christmas Carol by Theatre in the Park 
This musical comedy version of the classic holiday Charles Dicken's play is considered one of the top 24 events in the Southeast. It will be running until December 18 at the Duke Energy Center. Buy tickets here!
Regal Holiday Classics
Old holiday movies are one of the coziest ways to celebrate the holidays. Something about the end of the year really inspires nostalgia and Regal Cinemas across The Triangle are showing holiday classics for all ages. See showtimes here!
The RINK Outdoor Skating at Red Hat Amphitheatre
While we rarely have snow or temps that dip below the 20s, we DO have the advantage of wonderful ice skating rinks in The Triangle. The Red Hat Amphitheatre has a great outdoor rink each season. See more here and buy tickets.
Bass Pro Shops and Cabela's Santa Grotto
Looking to put in a few good words for yourself or bring kids to see Santa? He will be available at all Bass Pro Shops and Cabela's. This is an easy way to celebrate this classic tradition, while also getting some holiday shopping done. Reserve a spot here.
Museum of Life and Science Holidays in the Park 
The Museum of Life and Science offers holiday music throughout the park, train rides through a winter wonderland, ice skating, and much more. This is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and get inspired by the holidays. See more here.
Magic of Lights Drive Thru
The Coastal Credit Union Music Park will host the Magic of Lights Drive Thru. Grab some cocoa or fresh hot cider and drive-thru these incredible light displays. See the price per car here.
Posted by Larry Tollen on
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