Raleigh is gearing up for another mid-week New Year’s Eve (coming in on Wednesday, Dec. 31, this year), and we’re keeping track of every party, dinner, concert, and celebration popping up across the Triangle. Dive in and start planning your night!
Friday Five: Anyone Know What Day It Is?
Good morning, Raleigh! I hope your holiday season has been filled with joy, treats, and time with friends and family. It’s definitely that time of year when no one really knows what day or even what time it is, but I’ve got you covered with a lineup of things to do in the in-between. Whether you’re still in full-on holiday mode, enjoying some downtime, or binge-watching the new Stranger Things episodes (me!), here’s how to make the most of these fuzzy, in-between days. Let’s get to it!
But First… Cast Your Vote 💌
As we close out 2025, we’d love your help deciding where to donate $100 on Wednesday, Dec. 31. Choose from our local nonprofit list—The Women’s Center, Friends of Wake County Animal Center, Inter-Faith Food Shuttle, Read and Feed, and CASA—or suggest your own favorite. Thank you for helping us spread a little extra love as we wrap up the year!
Let it Glow, Let it Glow, Let it Glow
Experience Downtown Raleigh aglow on the Illuminate Art Walk Sip n’ Stroll Tour! This guided walking tour features large-scale, interactive light installations entirely within the downtown Sip n’ Stroll district. Arrive early to grab a drink at nearby spots like The Anchor Bar or Raleigh Times, or check out all participating Sip n’ Stroll locations here, then gear up for an exciting tour brought to you by Raleigh Walking Tours.
📍 Meeting Point: Outside the NC Court of Appeals Building, 1 W. Morgan St., Raleigh
📅 Dates & Times: Friday, Dec. 26 & Saturday, Dec. 27 | approx. 5:45–6:45 p.m.
💸 Cost: Pay‑what‑you‑want, advance registration required.
Prefer to explore at your own pace? The self‑guided Illuminate Art Walk is free nightly through Tuesday, Jan. 6—perfect for a stroll with friends or family.
Let’s! Go! Canes!
On Saturday, Dec. 27, the Carolina Hurricanes take on the Detroit Red Wings at the Lenovo Center, bringing fast-paced action, big hits, and all the Caniac energy you can handle. Then, keep the excitement rolling on Monday, Dec. 29, as the Canes face off against the New York Rangers in another high-energy matchup. It’s the perfect way to cap off 2025!
📍 Location: Lenovo Center, 1400 Edwards Mill Road, Raleigh
🗓 Date & Time: Saturday, Dec. 27 | 7 p.m. & Monday, Dec. 29 | 7 p.m.
🎟 Cost: Tickets start at $70; choose the option that’s right for you.
Ice Skating Just a Short Drive Away
Skate into the new year at Fenton’s Skate the Square, Cary’s outdoor ice skating rink! Lace up your skates and enjoy 75 minutes of ice time with skate rental included in your ticket—perfect for a daytime outing, an evening adventure, or a festive date night with friends and family. The rink sits in the heart of Fenton Square, surrounded by shops and restaurants, so you can make a whole day of it. Whether you’re a seasoned skater or just trying it for fun, it’s a classic winter activity to enjoy nearby.
📍 Location: Fenton Square, 21 Fenton Main St., Cary
🗓 Dates: Now through Sunday, Feb. 8 (open daily; hours vary)
💸 Cost: ~$18 per person (includes skate rental); advance tickets recommended.
Plan Ahead: Where Are My Poets At?
Kick off the new year with the first Raleigh Poetry Slam of 2026 at Blackbird Books & Coffee! This high-energy Friday night event features poets performing original work, judged by five audience-selected judges. The poet with the highest cumulative score takes home all the cash—because yes, you can win at art. Expect powerful performances, great vibes, and a cozy downtown setting to start the year strong.
Interested in performing? Email Neil at raleighpoetryslam@gmail.com to sign up!
📍 Location: Blackbird Books & Coffee, 323 Blake St., Raleigh
🗓 Date & Time: Friday, Jan. 2 | 7–9 p.m.
🎟 Cost: $5 (Purchase your ticket in advance)
Ready for One Last Hustle Before the Holidays Hit Pause?
If your calendar still has a little wiggle room—and your holiday spirit isn’t quite ready to clock out yet—this weekend is stacked in the best possible way. From cookie decorating on Friday to trolley rides packed with Christmas cheer, artisan shopping, pet photos with Santa, gingerbread house competition energy, and even a smart, clutter-free gift idea for the bourbon lover on your list, we’re squeezing every last drop out of the season. We’re also closing things out with a look ahead to New Year’s Eve, because once Santa lands, it’s only a matter of time before the countdown begins. Grab your people, pick your favorites, and let’s finish strong. 🎅🎄❄️🥂🕎🎁🐾
PS: This is my last week taking lead on writing for the year! Peyton’s in charge next week. Thank y’all so much for reading in 2025, it’s been a pleasure keeping y’all entertained with our curated guide to the Capital City and beyond. Thank you for keeping it local… see you in 2026! 🥂