You are invited to join the party on Sunday, Dec. 31, beginning at 10 p.m. Don’t forget to dress to impress and take advantage of their photo booth experience! No reservations are required and there is no cover charge, however, they are renting out five VIP tables to take your New Year’s Eve up a notch! Killjoy is always a good choice but it’s even better on NYE.
A New Year’s Eve Staple: First Night Raleigh
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.
‘Tis the Season, and Guess Who’s Ready for Christmas?
Well, sort of! Confession time: I’m the Christmas Eve shopper who makes procrastination an art form. But fear not, I’ve decided to sprinkle some holiday cheer into my weekend because, let’s face it, Raleigh is the gift that keeps on giving this time of year! So grab your eggnog, sit back, and brace yourself for a Friday Five that’s about to sleigh!
But First…Let’s Find Some Balance for the New Year!
‘Tis the season of generosity, and we’ve got an extraordinary gift reserved exclusively for one lucky Raleigh Weekend reader. Dive into the excitement for a chance to snag a $30 gift card to Arrichion Hot Yoga! Don’t miss the golden opportunity to immerse yourself in the warmth with Arrichion’s phenomenal new client deal: enjoy 20 days of unlimited classes for only $30!
Friendly Reminder: During Christmas, Calories Take a Holiday!
THE DESSERTERY has officially made it to the nice list for this festive extravaganza. Envision a winter wonderland with lavish holiday decor, an endless array of sugary delights, and enough hot cocoa to make even the Grinch question his life choices. Count me in! But here’s the scoop—this weekend is your final shot at indulging in this sweet symphony, so snatch up those tickets before they vanish like a plate of cookies at Santa’s workshop!








