ICYMI, the holiday Ham Jam is back! To help you avoid the extremely long lines at Honey Baked Ham this Thanksgiving, we’ve partnered with Annie Meadows and Ryan Boone at Hudson Residential to give away not one, but two $50 gift cards. Enter to win by Nov. 30!
Christmas Tree, O Christmas Tree 🎄
Both North Hills and Downtown Raleigh are lighting it up this weekend to officially mark the start of the holiday season. Head Downtown to the plaza in front of Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts on Friday, Nov. 22, to watch the tree light up—plus enjoy free pics with Santa, a vendor market, performances from local artists, and local food and bevs. Then, on Saturday, Nov. 23, go over to North Hills Commons for its annual tree-lighting celebration, complete with live entertainment, kids crafts, a vendor village, and an appearance from the Big Man.
Sweetness Overload 🧁
Calling everyone with a sweet tooth! The Dessertery returns to Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts Friday, Nov. 22, through Monday, Dec. 23, 2024. The holiday-themed dessert cafe features all-you-can-eat sweets and hot cocoa, plus live entertainment on select nights. Yum! Keep reading for Peyton’s take on this delicious holiday hotspot.
Jingle Bells and All That Jazz
Come one, come all to Raleigh’s 80th annual Christmas Parade Saturday, Nov. 23! The largest Christmas parade between DC and Atlanta kicks off at 9:30 a.m. streetside and on ABC11, making its way through ~1.4 miles of DTR. Some of your fave local bars and restaurants even open early so you can snag a drink/meal to watch all the festivities.
Ice, Ice, Baby! ❄️⛸️
Red Hat Amphitheater is turning into a winter wonderland-themed ice skating rink from Saturday, Nov. 23, through Monday, Jan. 20. The Rink also features outdoor lounge furniture, fire pits, a decorated tree, photo stations, games, and snack/drink bar. You can even book a private igloo to enjoy exclusive food and bev offerings before or after you skate!
Sip & Shop Till You Drop
Early birds, this one’s for you! Get some of your holiday gift shopping done early at The Parlor at Heights House’s Sip & Shop Holiday Market Sunday, Nov. 24. The Parlor bar will be serving up drinks for you to sip on while enjoying local vendors, food, a DJ, kids’ activities, and more. BYO blanket or lawn chairs to post up on the lawn after your shopping spree.
Craving a Sweet Treat? The Dessertery’s Got You Covered (and Then Some)! ✨🎄
Hi friends, it’s Peyton! I just had to share my sweet adventure (and dinner, lol) at The Dessertery—it was such a festive treat and totally got me into the holiday spirit! From Tiramisu to chocolate truffles, I tasted my way through goodies from the best local bakeries, and yes, I definitely went all out at the hot cocoa bar (the toppings were next level 😍). The space was decked out with stunning Christmas trees, twinkling lights, and so much holiday cheer—I even got to chat with Santa! So, if you’re looking for a sweet way to soak up the season, this is the go-to spot. Trust me, it’s totally worth the sugar coma!
Friday Five: It’s Finally Fall, Y’all 🍂
I’m beyond ready to pull out those cozy sweaters and dive into this perfect fall weather! Raleigh is buzzing with incredible events this weekend—from grand openings to holiday spirit, there’s something to spice up everyone’s plans. Not that you need a reason to get out and soak up the season, but I’ve got some can’t-miss events that are guaranteed to get you off the couch. So, let’s fall into the Friday Five with all the fall vibes!