Raleigh Weekend

The Local's Guide to Things to Do in Raleigh, NC

Your Weekend Guide to Raleigh

Your go-to weekend cheat sheet for Raleigh. Think of it like having a well-informed friend pointing out the coolest shows, food popups, and reason-to-get-out-of-bed plans — all tailored to what’s happening locally this weekend.

Let It Snow… Local Vendors! ❄️

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The Makrs Society’s Winterfaire has taken over Moore Square, running now through Sunday, Dec. 14! The European style Christmas market/festival features 60+ vendors, a food truck rodeo, live bands, Santa, s’mores, a beer garden, and more. It’s the perfect way to check everyone off your list—and maybe even snag a little something for yourself—while supporting local businesses.

🗓️ Friday, Dec. 12: 5–9 p.m. | Saturday, Dec. 13: 11 a.m.–10 p.m. | Sunday, Dec. 14: 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
📍Moore Square, 201 S. Blount St.
💸 Free

Hop Aboard Santa’s Trolley 🎅

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All aboard! Santa’s gone missing in Raleigh, and his trusty elves need your help to find him in time for Christmas. Join the hunt via the Historic Raleigh Trolley on Friday, Dec. 12—and arrive up to 30 minutes early or stay after your tour to make a s’more!

🗓️ Friday, Dec. 12 | 5, 6, or 7 p.m.
📍Mordecai Historic Park
💸 $15

Sing Your Heart Out at Raleighoke 🎤

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Raleighoke’s live band karaoke is coming to Tap Yard on Saturday, Dec. 13—and you’re invited to belt out your fave tunes, or sing along to those living out their rockstar dreams. Popular picks include “Mr. Brightside” by The Killers, “Pink Pony Club” by Chappell Roan, and “Wagon Wheel” by Darius Rucker. American Idol called, now here’s your turn to answer!

🗓️ Saturday, Dec. 13 | 8 p.m. to midnight
📍Tap Yard, 1610 Automotive Way
💸 $10 at door, $8 online

Looking Ahead: Let There Be Light! 🕎

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Join Chabad Young Professionals in celebrating the festival of lights via Downtown Raleigh’s menorah lighting, taking place at Moore Square on Tuesday, Dec. 16. The ceremony will be led by Mayor Janet Cowell and also include a hot chocolate bar, fresh latkes and donuts, and a creative art experience hosted by Artspace.

🗓️ Tuesday, Dec. 16 | 5:30–6:30 p.m.
📍Moore Square, 201 S. Blount St.
💸 Free

Friday Five: Rockin’ Around Downtown Raleigh

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Happy Friday, Raleigh! Grab a warm drink—coffee, tea, or cocoa with extra marshmallows if you like 😉—and get ready for a weekend packed with holiday cheer. From festive lights to downtown markets, it’s all happening right here in the heart of the city.

That’s right—this Friday Five is all downtown, and trust me, it’s worth the trip, especially if you’re behind on your Christmas shopping (like yours truly). So bundle up, and let’s get to it!

But First… A Heartfelt Giveaway

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We’re doing things differently this month to spread a little extra cheer to our community—and you get to help! Instead of a giveaway, we want you to choose where we donate $100 on Wednesday, Dec. 31. Here are the options: The Women’s Center, Friends of Wake County Animal Center, Inter-Faith Food Shuttle, Read and Feed, and CASA.

Or, if you have a favorite local cause, suggest your own! Cast your vote and help us make an impact in our community this holiday season.

Skate into the Season at The Rink!

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Embrace the chill and bundle up for The Rink—an outdoor, winter-wonderland ice rink at Red Hat Amphitheater! Glide across the ice during a 2-hour skate session (skates included), or grab a seat and enjoy the winter vibes from the stands. Want to level it up? Private igloo lounges and the “Glide and Gather” group space make it perfect for cozy hangouts. Can’t make it this weekend? No worries—it’s open through early January!

📍 Location: Red Hat Amphitheater — 500 S. McDowell St., Raleigh
🗓 Dates: Friday, Dec. 5–Sunday, Jan. 4 (sessions vary—see site for times)
💸 Cost: $15 + fees for skaters (includes skates), $6 + fees for spectators