Kick off the new year with January’s First Friday, your last chance to explore the dazzling free holiday lights event, Illuminate Art Walk. Enjoy extended gallery hours, exciting events at local favorites, mouthwatering food and drinks, and breathtaking large-scale light installations—all in one unforgettable evening in Downtown Raleigh. This free event begins on Friday, Jan. 3, at 6 p.m.
Discover Hidden Treasures at the 2025 Collector’s Roadshow
The Inside Pitch Promotions Collector’s Roadshow is rolling into town for its first stop of the new year on Saturday, Jan. 4, at 9 a.m., in the NC State Fairgrounds Exposition Center. If you’re a fan of vintage toys, action figures, comic books, or even sports cards, this event is your ultimate treasure hunt. From Pokémon to Hot Wheels, die-cast cars to POP Funko, there’s something for every collector. Admission is just $5 for adults, $7 for a weekend pass, and free for kids 10 and under. Plus, parking is free!
Travel Back to the ’90s at Boxcar Bar + Arcade
Not quite ready for it to be 2025? Head over to Boxcar on Saturday, Jan. 4, beginning at noon to travel back in time for an old-fashioned cartoon and pajama party! Sip through a cereal-themed cocktail menu while playing your favorite games and watching iconic throwback shows. They even have a delicious mocktail menu for those who are staying dry this January! P.S. Admission is free!
Enjoy a Sweet Symphony 🎶
Head over to the Martin Marietta Center’s Meymandi Concert Hall to experience the life and music of Tchaikovsky as he travels to America—featuring his best-loved works including the 1812 Overture, The Nutcracker, Sleeping Beauty, Swan Lake, and more. There are two opportunities to see this show—Saturday, Jan. 4, at 1 p.m., and again at 4 p.m. You don’t want to miss this night of timeless tunes—find tickets here.
Lights, Camera, Architecture: Visual Acoustics at The Rialto
The fun doesn’t have to stop on Monday! If you’re a fan of modernism and iconic architecture, don’t miss Visual Acoustics: The Modernism of Julius Shulman this Tuesday, Jan 7, at 7 p.m. You’re invited to The Rialto in Raleigh for a film documentary celebrating Shulman’s stunning contributions to modern architecture, including his famous image of Case Study House #22. There will even be door prizes and a Q&A session with the director and producer, Eric Bricker. Get your tickets for just $15 online now or at the door.
Friday Five: Fa-La-La in Love with Raleigh This Weekend 🌟
Hey, Raleigh Weekend Warriors! ‘Tis the season to fill your shopping carts and your hearts in the City of Oaks. From festive holiday pop-ups to an exciting college football battle, this weekend is packed with action and seasonal cheer. Whether you’re here for the games, gifts, or good drinks, I’ve got the local lowdown on all of the fun in Raleigh this weekend. Without further ado, let’s get into it!
But First… Enter Our Ham Jammin’ Giveaway
Have you entered our Ham Jam giveaway yet? Named after those famously long lines at Honey Baked Ham every holiday season, we’re giving away two $50 gift cards, thanks to our friends Annie Meadows and Ryan Boone at Hudson Residential! Don’t miss your chance to beat the crowd and enjoy the most delicious holiday ham—enter to win by November 30!
Shop Local at the Visions of Sugarplums Holiday Art and Gift Show 🎨
Get a jumpstart on your holiday shopping at the 50th anniversary of the Visions of Sugar Plums Holiday Art and Gift Show! This FREE and festive event will take place all weekend at the Quail Hollow Swim Club. The show runs from 9 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 8, and from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 9. Bring your gift list and discover something special for everyone!