The Research Triangle Park region comes alive with holiday spirit in the winter and celebrations carry through well beyond New Years in the Western Calendar. From the vibrant African American Cultural Celebration to the cosmic exploration of Astronomy Days, and the magic of holiday top hits with the North Carolina Symphony, there's a winter event for every interest. In the interest of your interests, we have broken these events into event types with links and specific events where the calendar is less densely packed. We hope you enjoy the Triangle to the fullest this holiday season!
Kicking off the holiday festivities in RTP are a multitude of annual Tree Lighting Ceremonies. Gather to witness the illumination of one of the most iconic emblems of the season, the Christmas tree. Also enjoy live music, seasonal treats, and visits from Santa at these events. List of tree lighting ceremonies at the link above.
Embrace the spirit of giving by exploring the local holiday markets in RTP. From handmade crafts to unique gifts, these markets are the perfect place to find presents for your loved ones. Support local artisans and businesses while enjoying in the festive atmosphere.
Gingerbread House Decorating Workshop
Get creative and join a gingerbread house decorating workshop in RTP. Whether you're a novice or a seasoned decorator, these are a great opportunity to connect and get creative this holiday season. The first in Raleigh is on Dec 1, at the link above and the Gingerbread Build at the Carolina Inn is also a great thing to do with guests in town.
From the over 2 million lights at Magic of Lights to the Chinese Lantern Festival in Cary, there are many parks and public spaces that transform into sparkling spectacles in the Triangle during the holidays. Also! Do not miss out on the ice skating rink in downtown Raleigh.
There are many celebrations across the Triangle for ringing in the New Year, from lively parties to fundraising galas, but we wanted to share this list for the families. These are events and the list is frequently updated. The Morrisville Not Quite Midnight New Year Celebration is particularly sweet at the library. Ring in the new year surrounded by the warmth and family in Research Triangle Park community.
Some of our other Favorites!
Christmas Tree Village at Millstone Creeks Orchard
Start Date: Beginning November 19th
Location: Millstone Creeks Orchard
The Christmas Tree Village at Millstone Creeks Orchard is a great way to celebrate the holidays. Whether you have a Christmas tree at home or not, these trees are curated and decorated for anyone to enjoy. This is a great event for families and kicks off on November 19th.
The Nutcracker, Elf, and Holiday Pops at Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts
The Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts sets the bar very high for holiday programming. From a theatrical version of Elf to the Nutcracker, and a Holiday Pops Concert from the North Carolina Symphony Orchestra, there are really fun ways to enjoy the holidays and performing arts at this venue. There are also days where it turns into a desert wonderland and Santa is receiving guests.
The Durham Art Walk Holiday Market, December 2nd
Date: December 2nd
Location: Durham
The Durham Art Walk Holiday Market on December 2nd showcases talent of local artists and artisans and offers a wide array of gifts, crafts, and holiday decorations. If you are looking for gifts that also support the arts in the community, this is a great place to buy.
19th Annual African American Cultural Celebration at North Carolina Museum of History 
Date: January 25th
Location: NC Museum of History, Raleigh
19th Annual African American Cultural Celebration at the North Carolina Museum of History is a rich way to celebrate the diversity and is the statewide kickoff to Black History month in the North Carolina. From live performances, interactive exhibits, and educational activities, the Museum of History celebrates the African American experiences that have shaped the region and it continues to be ranked in top 20 events in Southern Tourism.
Astronomy Days at North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences 
Dates: February 3rd and 4th
Location: NC Museum of Natural Sciences
North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences invites you to explore the cosmos with activities for all ages including exhibits, workshops, and stargazing opportunities. Take this chance to join enthusiasts and connect with the wonders of the universe in the heart of RTP.
Date: February 3rd
Location: Raleigh
Lace up your running shoes and join the sweetest challenge in town - the Krispy Kreme Challenge February 3rd, is an annual event combining fitness and indulgence as participants run for an hour and have 12 Krispy Kreme doughnuts along the way. It's called balance.
Dates: March 14-17
Location:
Celebrate the official arrival of spring with Art In Bloom, the North Carolina Museum of Arts fundraiser of blooms and art. Taking place from March 14th to 17th, this event features stunning floral arrangements inspired by works of art, a perfect way to bid farewell to winter and embrace the colors of spring. If you are thinking about selling this spring, be sure to reach out to My NC Homes, we hope you enjoyed our winter round up! Happy Holidays and Merry Winter from My NC Homes.
Posted by Larry Tollen on
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