If you have never experienced the Raleigh acorn drop, now is the time to do it. First Night Raleigh is an all-encompassing event that starts at 2 p.m. There are outdoor musical performances, a children’s celebration, a Ferris wheel, fireworks, and so much more!
My Pick for a Ticketed Event: Rocky Top Catering NYE Gala
I have done this event a couple of years in the past and it has always been a great time and worth the ticket price ($150-$175). The party is held at the NC Museum of Natural Sciences (which is pretty awesome anytime) and is all-inclusive. There are delicious food stations, open bars, live music, photo ops, dance floors, and more—all spread across four floors.
NYE Celebration With The Awen Family Band at Bowstring
No stress NYE? Yes, please! Bowstring will feature live music from the Awen Family Band, a free champagne toast at midnight, and no cover charge!
Also on Sunday, Dec. 31, they will host a pre-party before the Big Something show at the Lincoln Theatre. Grab some pizza with your buddies and catch a free show from the Ranford Almond Band at 2 p.m.
Mini Midnight Madness at Tap Yard
The fun starts early on Dec. 31, at Tap Yard. Their family-friendly New Year’s Eve celebration is perfect for all ages and starts at 5 p.m. with a host of exciting activities that your kids will love! There will be a balloon drop at 6 p.m., a dance party, face painting, a bubble machine, and more. And for the adults, the fun doesn’t stop! Stick around as they welcome the band “Vertigo” at 9:30 p.m. to rock the night away. Enjoy great music, drinks, and the company of friends to count down to midnight.
Friday Five: Sorry Thanksgiving Fans, Christmas Starts This Weekend in Raleigh
I know, I know, it’s November, but I can’t control what events are happening this weekend. While I do have one Thanksgiving event in the lineup, this Friday Five is all about Santa Claus coming to town. So, get ready to jingle those bells, it’s time for your Friday Five and it’s going to be a merry one.
But First… Nog, Nog. Who’s There?
It’s Lonerider with the return of their famous Southern Nog! For this month’s giveaway, two lucky winners will receive two bottles of this tasty spirit that is perfect for the season. Chill, pour into a glass, and garnish with cinnamon, mint leaves, or nutmeg. If you are a real outlaw, skip the garnish. Entering is as easy as serving this concoction; just complete the form for your shot!
Get Lit: Christmas Tree Lightings This Weekend
Kick off the holiday season with Downtown Raleigh’s Annual Tree Lighting on Friday, Nov. 17, and the North Hills Tree Lighting celebration on Saturday, Nov. 18. Both events will feature a vendor village, music, and more!
The Downtown Raleigh lighting is a Sip N’ Stroll Downtown event meaning you can walk into the footprint with a beverage from your favorite participating bar or restaurant. Cheers!
Deck the Halls: The Downtown Raleigh Christmas Parade is Saturday
There’s no surer sign of the holiday season quickly approaching than the return of one of Raleigh, N.C.’s best (and biggest) annual traditions—the ABC11 Raleigh Christmas Parade, on Sat., Nov. 18! An event truly made for the whole family, the parade provides endless entertainment in downtown Raleigh for one Saturday morning each year. visitRaleigh has a great guide of everything you need to know—the when, where, and how—about the this year’s parade!