Instead of a giveaway this month, we’re asking Raleigh Weekend readers to choose where we donate $100 on Wednesday, Dec. 31. Choose from our list of local nonprofits: The Women’s Center, Friends of Wake County Animal Center, Inter-Faith Food Shuttle, Read and Feed, and CASA—or suggest your own favorite cause. Cast your vote and help us make an impact in our community this holiday season!
Get in the Holiday Spirit(s) 🍸
Eat, drink, and be merry at a slew of holiday pop-up bars around Raleigh, all featuring decor galore and drink specials that are sure to get you in the jolly spirit. From Wye Hill’s tropical-esque Sippin’ Santa to Watts & Ward’s new A Dickens Christmas to Miracle at Killjoy, Raleigh Mag’s curated list has a themed pop-up with your name on it—most of which are running through the end of the year. ‘Tis the season!
Let It Snow… Local Vendors! ❄️
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 🎅
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 🎤
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! 🕎
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
First Look: Inside Smash Social Club, Opening Dec. 11 in Raleigh
Raleigh’s Glenwood South is about to get a lively new addition with next week’s opening of Smash Social Club. We stopped by for an early preview of the games, cocktails, and shareable bites coming to this rooftop hangout.
Friday Five: Rockin’ Around Downtown Raleigh
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!