Skater admission is $15 per person, including skate rentals; igloo packages are $200-$300. | Photo provided by Raleigh Convention and Performing Arts Complex
Hey folks, City Editor Allie here. The holiday season ramps up in Raleigh this week. From the annual Christmas parade, the downtown tree lighting, the Cary Night Market, and THE RINK‘s opening at Red Hat Amphitheater, you can start celebrating the holidays now.
If you’re looking to hold off on holiday festivities, try the GLOWfest anniversary party, a Carolina Hurricanes game (psst... the Penguins are a big rival), or an open mic.
Better Made Easy Launch Event | Friday, Nov. 17 | 4-6 p.m. | Raleigh Founded, 310 S. Harrington St., Raleigh | Free | Join this launch party to learn how to make purchases that align with your values through better made easy, a local sustainability-focused online store.
Raleigh Tree Lighting | Friday, Nov. 17 | 5:30-8 p.m. | Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts, 2 E. South St., Raleigh | Free | Join Santa in lighting the giant tree in the heart of downtown.
GLOWFest One Year Anniversary Party | Friday, Nov. 17 | 6-9 p.m. | GLOW Fitness, 1924 Wake Forest Rd., Raleigh | Free | Celebrate the one year anniversary of this fun workout studio with a silent disco, free drinks, vendors, a “Most Festive” outfit contest, raffles, and games.
Cary Night Market | Friday, Nov. 17 | 5 p.m. | The Night Market Co., 310 S. Academy St., Cary | Free | Find locally crafted goods and enjoy music and entertainment in downtown Cary.
Winter Wonderland | Friday, Nov. 17-Sunday, Nov. 19 | Times vary | Park West Village, 3400 Village Market Pl., Morrisville | Free | There will be train rides, storytimes with Santa, food trucks + hot bevs, a live performance by the Embers on Saturday, and plenty more activities going on in The District.
Saturday, Nov. 18
79th ABC11 Raleigh Christmas Parade presented by Shop Local Raleigh | Saturday, Nov. 18 | 9:30 a.m. | Downtown Raleigh, Hillsborough, Morgan, and Fayetteville streets, Raleigh | Free | This year’s celebration will feature Grand Marshal Cam Ward of the Carolina Hurricanes and over 100 groups including massive balloons, community groups, bands, and more.
Pittsburgh Penguins vs. Carolina Hurricanes | Saturday, Nov. 18 | 7 p.m. | PNC Arena, 1400 Edwards Mill Rd., Raleigh | $80-$250 | Cheer on the Canes during this home matchup.
Sunday, Dec. 10
Tongue & Groove Open Mic | Sunday, Dec. 10 | Times vary | VAE Raleigh, 228 Fayetteville St., Raleigh | Free | Watch local talent from around the Triangle gather to co-create with poetry, music, storytelling, and the occasional interpretive dance.
Come along with us and discover some of Atlanta’s best offerings for your next weekend getaway.
Why go? The Georgia Aquarium — the largest aquarium in the country and among the largest in the world — is an awe-inspiring spot that’s perfect for the entire family.
Act like a local: The Star Community Bar is an Atlanta institution that’s been in operation since 1991. It’s hosted countless beloved artists, like Drive By Truckers, and up and coming acts through the years, as well as bingo and the city’s longest running comedy night. It also offers cheap drinks and an Elvis shrine you’ll want to snap and throw up on the ’Gram. Pro tip: it’s currently on the development chopping block, so be sure to experience this Atlanta treasure before it becomes a thing of the past.
Where to stay: Vrbo: Dazzling downtown Penthouse with killer city views and a private balcony in the heart of downtown Atlanta (~$150/night)*
Bonus message from our partner: If you’re looking to book this trip, Going offers all the affordable flight hacks from your home airport. Sign up here.*
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