BY JANICE LEWINE
Cary Downtown Historic Guided Walking Tour
Sundays in December, noon–1 p.m.
Tour meets at 114 S. Academy Street, Cary
Explore the fascinating history of Cary, a small southern railroad hamlet that has transformed into one of America’s fastest growing and most innovative cities. Travel from site to site in its historic downtown and uncover the stories of brilliant agricultural innovators. Discover Cary’s pioneering commitment to public education and the foundation of a rare racially integrated social club in the heart of North Carolina’s bedroom community. Purchase tickets online.
eventbrite.com
Ice Skating in Downtown Cary Park
Select days in December and January
327 S. Academy Street, Cary
Experience the magic of the holidays at Downtown Cary Park’s winter skating rink. Head to Park Street Courts to find the arena transformed into a frosty weather destination. Skating and skate rentals are free. Check-in is in person at Park Street Courts and operates on a first-come, first- served basis until the rink reaches capacity for each skating window. View the calendar for skating opportunities.
downtowncarypark.com/calendar
“The Wizard of Oz”
December 4, 2–4 p.m.
North Carolina Museum of Art
2110 Blue Ridge Road, Raleigh
See the classic 1939 film that features Dorothy and Toto as they are swept away by a tornado from their Kansas farm to the magical Land of Oz. They embark on a quest with three new friends to see the Wizard, who can return Dorothy to her home and fulfill the others’ wishes. Purchase tickets online.
ncartmuseum.org
Azura Skin Care Center Holiday Open House
December 6, 4–7 p.m.
1149 Kildaire Farm Road, Cary
Enjoy a holiday open house at Azura Skin Care featuring light bites and beverages, special pricing on your favorite services, swag bags, raffles, and vendors. RSVP by emailing .
azuraskin.com
Holiday Sip n Shop
December 6, 5:30–9 p.m.
City of Raleigh Museum
20 Fayetteville Street, Raleigh
Enjoy a festive beverage while finding gifts for the whole family from local artists, craftspeople, creators, makers and more. RSVP online.
eventbrite.com
Snowman Stroll on Salem
December 6–15
Downtown Apex
Get into the holiday spirit in Apex! Pick up a Snowman Stroll Passport at the Apex Depot (220 N. Salem Street or at any of the downtown businesses marked as Snowman Stops). Each stop will feature delightful snowman and winter-themed specials, decorations, and unique offerings. Receive a stamp in your passport at these participating businesses.
apexeconomicdevelopment.org/2017/Snowman-Stroll-on-Salem
Candle Making on the Farm
December 7, 10–11:30 a.m.
Stoney Acres Farm
620 Winter Breeze Court, Cary
Create your own unique candles using traditional techniques. Each attendee will make three, 4-oz candles to take home. Perfect for stocking stuffers or making your home smell amazing for the holidays. Appropriate for ages 12+. Register online.
eventbrite.com
Downtown Cary Gifting Tree Project
December 7–26
Downtown Cary
Wander along South Academy Street and through the Downtown Cary Park as its transformed into a sparkling display of Christmas trees. Local families, schools, and organizations have decorated their trees in hopes of winning a donation (courtesy of The Mayton) for a nonprofit of their choice. Visitors are invited to cast a vote for their favorite tree through December 22.
carync.gov
German Holiday Market
December 7, 3–9 p.m.
Durham Central Park
501 Foster Street, Durham
Experience the magic of a German-themed Christmas market with vendor stalls selling a variety of handmade crafts and gifts. Live entertainment and authentic German cuisine round out the event.
facebook.com/events/999824945127134
Jingle Bell Walk
December 7, 10 a.m.
Northern Wake Senior Center
235 E. Holding Avenue, Wake Forest
All ages enjoy an easy 1.3 mile walk through downtown Wake Forest. Children, parents, grandparents, and well-behaved dogs are all encouraged to dress in their most fun holiday outfits. Registration fees are $20/person and include a kazoo and an invitation to play in the Kazoo Band during the walk. Everyone is invited back to the Northern Wake Senior Center after the walk for intergenerational holiday activities including ornament painting, cookie decorating, line dancing, writing letters to Santa, and a visit with Santa himself. Register online.
eventbrite.com
Jolly Raleigh Holiday Market
December 7, 11 a.m.–5 p.m.
Raleigh Iron Works
1101 E. Whitaker Mill Road, Raleigh
Shop for handcrafted treasures, artisanal treats, kids activities, and unique gifts, all while sipping on your favorite festive beverages.
shoplocalraleigh.org
Winter Pops at the Armory
December 7, 7 p.m.
Durham Armory
212 Foster Street, Durham
This long-standing Triangle event for the whole family includes the traditional sing-along, classical works, holiday music from Leroy Anderson, and three selections from Tchaikovsky’s “The Nutcracker.” Soprano Alissa Roca joins the DSO for selections from Handel’s “Messiah.” Take free photos with Santa starting at 6 p.m. and enjoy a dessert buffet and hot cocoa bar at intermission.
durhamsymphony.org
Pink Holiday Fashion Frenzy 2024: Fashion Show & Celebration
December 8, 7–11:30 p.m.
CAM Raleigh
409 W. Martin Street, Raleigh
This exclusive “pink tie” event brings together fashion, community, and the holiday spirit in honor of breast cancer survivors and fighters. Celebrate the theme “Fierce & Fearless: Strength in Style.” This year’s event is not only a tribute to those who have triumphed over breast cancer but also a holiday celebration filled with runway showcases, live entertainment, VIP experiences, and unforgettable stories of resilience. Purchase tickets online.
eventbrite.com
Candle Making Class at JB Duke Hotel
December 9, 5:30–7:30 p.m.
JB Duke Hotel
230 Science Drive, Durham
Join Lit Moments Candle Company for an unforgettable candle-making experience. Make your own custom fragrance and transform it into two beautiful 8-ounce candles — perfect for holiday gifts. At this unique event, attendees will soak in the hotel’s elegantly decorated Lobby Lounge and socialize with fellow DIY enthusiasts. Register online.
jbdukehotel.com
Sips and Centerpieces at Washington Duke Inn & Golf Club
December 11, 6–8 p.m.
Impress your guests this holiday season with centerpieces that reflect artistic beauty. Erin Weston, the visionary behind Weston Farms, shares her creative vision and design expertise, guiding attendees through the process of creating elegant table decorations. Attendees will take home the custom 20” x 16” magnolia bouquet they create. $125/person. Register online.
eventbrite.com
Carolina Ballet Presents “The Nutcracker”
December 12–24
2 E. South Street, Raleigh
This holiday ballet marries the charm of the original with fresh choreography, vibrant sets and stunning costumes at Raleigh Memorial Auditorium. Purchase tickets online.
carolinaballet.com
Nightmare Before XMas Santa Hat Bar Crawl
December 13, 6 p.m.
Calling all Beetlejuices, Jigsaws, Vampires, Scoobys & Shaggys, Minions, Angels & Devils, the Santa Hat Bar Crawl takes a twisted turn this year with a mashup of Halloween Spirit with Christmas Spirit for the best of both worlds. Ages 21 and older. Purchase tickets online.
eventbrite.com
“The Passion of Mary Cardwell Dawson”
December 13–15
Meymandi Concert Hall
2 E. South Street, Raleigh
North Carolina-born trailblazer Mary Cardwell Dawson founded the National Negro Opera Company in the mid-20th century, creating unprecedented opportunities for Black artists and audiences across America. One evening in 1943, the company is scheduled to perform “Carmen” on a floating barge on the Potomac River. When inclement weather threatens to force the performance into a segregated hall, Mary must navigate the raging storms to ensure the show goes on. Purchase tickets online.
ncopera.org
Enchanted Winter: Exploring the Beauty of Cool Season Gardens
December 14, 10:30 a.m.–noon
JC Raulston Arboretum
4415 Beryl Road, Raleigh
Step into the magical realm of winter gardening as Brie Arthur unveils her seasonal favorites. From intricate branches and vibrant berries to captivating foliage and delicate winter blooms, discover the secret beauty that lies within plants during the coldest season. This presentation is more than a visual feast—it's an invitation to discover the hidden magic that winter holds. Registration required online.
jcra.ncsu.edu
Durham Craft Market
December 15, 10 a.m. –4 p.m.
Durham Central Park
501 Foster Street, Durham
Shop local artisans and makers for unique handmade gifts for the holidays in the heart of Durham.
durhamcraftmarket.com
Paws With Claus: Holiday Photos
December 15, 2–5 p.m.
Downtown Cary Park
327 S. Academy Street, Cary
Take your furry friends for a jolly good time featuring adorable photos of your beloved dog with Santa Claus. Enjoy a cheerful atmosphere, complete with holiday decorations, treats and plenty of wagging tails. This event is free and open to the public.
downtowncarypark.com
Holiday Cookie Decorating Class
December 16, 6:30–8:30 p.m.
301 S Academy Street, Cary
Join Tricia from Darlin’ Designs Baking Co. to decorate showstopping holiday cookies. Tickets include a glass of sparkling wine, six cookies to decorate, icing and a box to take your cookies home in and show off. Tickets are $60 per person. Register online.
peckandplume.com
“A Celtic Christmas by A Taste of Ireland”
December 18, 7:30 p.m.
Carolina Theater of Durham
309 W. Morgan Street, Durham
Celebrate the festive season with electrifying performances by a star-studded cast of internationally acclaimed Irish dancers, who fuse incredible red-hot rhythms with jaw-dropping talent in an unforgettable night of storytelling, Irish charm and spectacular entertainment. Purchase tickets online.
carolinatheatre.org
Duke Chapel by Candlelight: Christmas Open House
December 18, noon–2 p.m.
Duke Chapel
401 Chapel Drive, Durham
Welcome the splendor of the season at the annual candlelight open house at Duke Chapel. All are invited to see Duke Chapel fully decorated for the Christmas season and listen to familiar Christmas music. There is no cost to attend and no tickets or reservations are required.
chapel.duke.edu
Flashlight Candy Cane Hunt
December 19, 6:30–7:15 p.m.
Apex Community Park
2200 Laura Duncan Road, Apex
Ages 10 and older with developmental and/or physical disabilities use their flashlights to search for candy canes and prizes in the park. Participants must bring a flashlight. Register online.
apexnc.org
Raleigh Flute Choir Presents a Holiday Concert
December 21, 7–8:30 p.m.
Holly Springs Cultural Center
300 W. Ballentine Street, Holly Springs
Hear the Raleigh Flute Choir as it plays sacred and secular pieces that evoke the joy of the season. Purchase tickets online.
eventbrite.com
Cary Final Friday Art Loop Reception: “Tiny Works”
Through December 30; visit the website for gallery hours
Cary Gallery of Artists
200 S. Academy Street, Suite 120, Cary
Discover unique and affordable artwork under 8×8” created by artist members for holiday gifting and stocking stuffing.
carygalleryofartists.org/featuredshow
First Night Raleigh
December 31, 2 p.m.–midnight
Ring in the new year with live entertainment, roving street performers, arts and crafts, the Acorn Drop at midnight and a spectacular fireworks display. Visit the website for ticket information.
firstnightraleigh.com
“Venice and the Ottoman Empire” and “Samurai: The Making of a Warrior”
Through January 5 and February 2, respectively
North Carolina Museum of Art
2110 Blue Ridge Road, Raleigh
See two exhibitions, “Venice and the Ottoman Empire” and “Samurai: The Making of a Warrior,” with one exhibition ticket. View works of art and culture spanning six centuries across three global empires—Venetian, Ottoman and Japanese. Purchase tickets online.
ncartmuseum.org
“Journey to Space”
Through April 27
North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences
11 W. Jones Street, Raleigh
Explore the forbidding environment of space, including the dangers that astronauts face and how they work, eat and sleep. Experience the sights, sounds, smells and sensation of floating as you climb aboard a full-scale, rotating mock-up of the Destiny Lab on the International Space Station. See authentic artifacts from past missions, including Neil Armstrong’s helmet and gloves from his Apollo mission. Purchase tickets online.
naturalsciences.org
