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.
The holidays are kicking off Saturday, Nov. 15, at Lafayette Village with its annual Lighting of the Tree! The festive evening kicks off with live music, entertainment, and holiday shopping at the center’s local boutiques, followed by the tree lighting at 6 p.m. sharp. Let the magic of the season begin!
🗓️ Saturday, Nov. 15 | 3–6 p.m.
📍Lafayette Village, 8450 Honeycutt Road
💸 Free
It’s time to get ~lit~! The annual NC Chinese Lantern Festival is back at Koka Booth Amphitheatre Saturday, Nov. 15, through Sunday, Jan. 11. Now in its 10th season, the magical holiday walk-through experience features thousands of handcrafted illuminated lanterns, plus cultural performances, various concessions, and both kid- and adult-friendly interactive elements. Talk about an enchanting tradition!
🗓️ Saturday, Nov. 15–Sunday, Jan. 11
📍Koka Booth Amphitheatre
💸 $16.74–$41.20
Sunday plans, found. Close out the weekend at Wolfe & Porter, with various events happening throughout the day on Sunday, Nov. 16. From 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., shop local finds, handmade goods, and one-of-a-kind treasures via the Vintage & Maker Market. Floral Artistry will also be on site with a Bloom Bar, where you can build your own bouquet. Then, from 4 to 7 p.m., Clue & Brew founder Rachel Simon is taking over to create personalized crossword puzzles printed on the spot.
🗓️ Sunday, Nov. 16
📍Wolfe & Porter, 905 W. Morgan St.
💸 Free
Spooky season’s behind us, and Raleigh’s easing into full-on fall mode with just a dash of pre-holiday magic (don’t worry, I’m not skipping over Thanksgiving like Joey). The air’s crisp, the coffee’s cozy, and the weekend’s packed with ways to soak up the season. From glowing gardens to early holiday markets, it’s the perfect time to slow down, bundle up, and savor these golden November days.
Without further ado… here’s your Friday Five.
We had such a blast riding The Great Raleigh Trolley last month for our Raleigh Dream Homes Trolley Tour that we couldn’t resist teaming up again—this time for a festive giveaway! 🎅✨
We’re giving away four tickets to The Great Raleigh Trolley’s Santa Express—a magical ride filled with Christmas cheer, story time, and a special visit from Santa himself. Visit their website to view available Santa Express dates (running Saturday, Dec. 6–Tuesday, Dec. 23, primarily on weekends). The winner will be contacted directly to book their four tickets based on availability.
Hop aboard this holiday adventure through the heart of Raleigh and make some merry memories along the way. Enter by Sunday, Nov. 30, for your chance to win!
Moonlight in the Garden is back for another enchanting season! For the next three weekends, JC Raulston Arboretum transforms into a luminous wonderland of botanical beauty. Wander winding paths aglow with artful lighting, enjoy live music and local food trucks, and soak in a crisp November night surrounded by nature’s magic. Get your tickets early—this beloved Raleigh tradition sells out fast!
📍 Location: JC Raulston Arboretum – 4415 Beryl Road, Raleigh
🗓 Date & Time: Fridays and Saturdays, Nov. 7–22 (timed entries vary; view schedule online)
💸 Cost: $30 (+fees) general admission (advance purchase recommended)
For one night only, Marbles Kids Museum flips the script—grown-ups only! Dive into giant yard games, a bar-arcade mashup, human foosball, and dance floors with DJ Baptiste. Enjoy tasty bites and drinks (available for purchase) and all the hands-on fun you remember from childhood. Every ticket supports play at Marbles Kids Museum, a community nonprofit. Must be 21+ with valid photo ID.
📍 Where: Marbles Kids Museum – 201 E. Hargett Street, Raleigh
🗓 When: Friday, Nov. 7 • 6:30–9:30 p.m.
💸 Cost: $15 advance | $18 day-of • Groups of 8+ $12 each (advance)
Wolfpack fans, the wait is over! NC State basketball is back—and with Will Wade leading the men’s team, there’s a new spark of excitement at the Lenovo Center. The men host the UAB Blazers on Friday, Nov. 7, following their season-opening win against NC Central. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just looking for a fun night out in Raleigh, now’s the time to get in on the action.
Plus, the Wolfpack women are hitting the road to face USC in Charlotte on Sunday, Nov. 9, at 3 p.m. Be sure to tune in and cheer them on! ❤️
📍 Locations: Lenovo Center – 1400 Edwards Mill Rd., Raleigh
🗓 Date & Time: Friday, Nov. 7 • 9 p.m.
💸 Cost: Tickets approx. $17–$37
