The Triangle is officially glowing. Whether you’re ready for twinkling lights, hometown holiday tradition, or a breathtaking cultural experience, this weekend offers three unforgettable ways to celebrate the season. Here’s what’s happening across Raleigh and Durham and why you’ll want to add each event to your plans.
Durham Tree Lighting | Durham
Downtown Durham’s annual Tree Lighting transforms CCB Plaza into a festive block party filled with music, lights, and local charm. From 5 to 9 p.m., families can enjoy a free Kids Zone hosted by Fate & Folklore and Durham Parks & Recreation, while the Santa Stage keeps little ones delighted throughout the evening. Live performances from Rissi Palmer & The Lover Boyz set the soundtrack, and roaming carolers bring that classic holiday cheer to every corner.
As you wander the plaza, look for The Poetry Fox, grab bites from Mezcalito and The Federal, or step into the quiet zone showing short holiday films curated by Film Durham. You can also pick up a Holiday Passport from Hyper Local and be among the first to experience the launch of Weird Holiday Windows. Downtown Durham goes all out and this event proves it. Learn more here.
Raleigh Christmas Parade | Raleigh
A beloved tradition for generations, the Raleigh Christmas Parade brings thousands downtown each year and the 2025 celebration promises all the hometown magic you’re hoping for. The parade kicks off at 9:30 a.m. and runs until noon, with marching bands, festive floats, community groups, performances, and plenty of surprises along the route.
If you’re not able to attend in person, ABC11 will broadcast the parade live starting at 9:30 a.m. For those heading downtown, all city-owned parking decks will be open free of charge on Saturday morning, making it easy for families to arrive early, settle in, and enjoy the show. Click here for all the details.
NC Chinese Lantern Festival | Cary
If you’re ready for a holiday experience unlike anything else in North Carolina, head to the North Carolina Chinese Lantern Festival at Koka Booth Amphitheatre. Open nightly from 6 to 10 p.m., this walk-through spectacle features more than 40 handcrafted lantern installations, each one created by visiting artisans from China who spend weeks building the displays onsite.
This year marks a decade of dazzling celebrations in Cary, and the festival continues to grow more impressive. The illuminated sculptures stretch across the grounds and over Symphony Lake, creating a vibrant, glowing world of color, art, and storytelling. Cultural performances take place throughout the evening, and both traditional concessions and Asian-inspired treats are available as you explore.
It’s a standout tradition, whether you’re planning date night, a family outing, or a holiday adventure with friends. Buy your tickets here.
As the Triangle steps fully into the holiday season, each of these events offers its own way to celebrate; whether you’re gathering with neighbors, building new traditions, or exploring the moments that make our communities shine. From festive lights to hometown parades to cultural experiences you won’t find anywhere else, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy this special time of year. Wherever the weekend takes you, we hope it brings connection, cheer, and a little extra magic.
