We’re counting down to 2025. | Photos provided by the Downtown Raleigh Alliance, Sandra Davidson, Liz Condo Photography, and RALtoday
From markets and neighborhood strolls to hockey and the performing arts, Raleigh’s the place to be this December. We’ve got all of Oak City’s top December events — and don’t fret, it’s more than just holiday events.
Illuminate Art Walk, downtown Raleigh | Starts Friday, Dec. 6 | This self-guided event lights up downtown Raleigh with temporary art installations — this year’s signature artwork is a lit-up tunnel.
Chanukah Parade, Lafayette Village | Sunday, Dec. 29 | This event is complete with a petting zoo, gelt drop, latkes, donuts, and a menorah lighting.
First Night Raleigh, City Plaza | Tuesday, Dec. 31 | Ring in the new year the Raleigh way with the acorn drop, a night of live music, and more on Oak City’s birthday.
AADE’s 39th Annual Kwanzaa Fest, Durham Armory, Durham | Wednesday, Jan. 1 | Celebrate Kwanzaa and the principle of Imani, or faith, with a wider community complete with dancing + food.
Gardening 101: Cool Swags from the Garden | 3-4 p.m. | Virtual | Free | Although your garden might have gone away for the winter, you can still take advantage of beautiful cuttings throughout your home.
Jazz Night at Slim’s Dive Bar | 7:30-9:30 p.m. | Slim’s Downtown | Free | Chill out with a night of lively + laid-back jazz.
The Dessertery | Friday, Dec. 6-Monday, Dec. 23 | Kennedy Theater | $30 | Indulge in this annual holiday-themed dessert cafe.
Raleigh Newcomers Coffee | 10 a.m.-12 p.m. | Sertoma Arts Center | Free | Those new to Oak City are welcome to meet with other recent residents, hear speakers, and join interest groups.
Were you there for North Hills’ recent tree lighting ceremony? | Photo provided by North Hills
The merriest time of year is here, and North Hills has once again transformed into a winter wonderland of glittering lights, festive decor, and, most importantly, some of the best seasonal shopping in the city.
With a blend of local bizes and new arrivals, chic boutiques and beloved national brands, the cozy district is the perfect place to find gifts for every name on your list — and maybe even a treat (or two, but who’s counting?) for yourself.
But the magic doesn’t have to end when you get home.
North Hills’ wildly popular “12 Days of North Hills Christmas” Giveaway returns to Instagram today for 12 days of fabulous free gifts from neighborhood shops, spas, and eateries.
Canes player Martin Necas was named the NHL’s First Star of November. Necas accrued 22 points across 15 November games, leading all league players for the month. The Czech player is also floating in the top five points earners of the season so far.
Civic
Mayor Janet Cowell took office this week to start her two-year tenure at the helm of Raleigh alongside fellow newcomer Mitchell Silver. Cowell served two terms on Raleigh City Council and plans to focus on housing, affordability, transportation, and the environment. (The News & Observer)
Drink
The Hippo Wine Bar was recently acquired by the folks behind Gussie’s and will soon offer an updated safari-inspired interior, bites, and a wider selection of drinks, including beer + spirits. Updates are expected at the bar later this month — get excited. (Raleigh Magazine)
Real Estate
Homeowners in the Triangle are getting older. Approx. 10.8% of homeowners in Oak City are 35 or younger — compared to 12.5% in 2012. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, affordability has dropped, and the Triangle is still attempting to recoup this drop. (Axios Raleigh)
State
Do you like your collards hot? What about their farmers? Patrick Brown of Brown Family Farms in Henderson has been named North Carolina’s Sexiest Collard Farmer — yes, you read that right. Brown was one of many NC collard farmers in the running for the esteemed title after last year’s inaugural competition. Anyone else feeling steamy? (The News & Observer)
Community
Do you want your voice heard by Wake County? Now’s your chance. Take the Wake County Insights Survey to give your input on services like libraries, water quality, parks + recreation, EMS, and plenty more. Survey results will be made public in early 2025.
Watch
Whether going to the movies is a new or existing holiday tradition, there’s something for fans of all ages and interests at AMC DINE-IN Holly Springs 9 this holiday season. Grab tickets to see these new releases — don’t forget the popcorn.*
Health
Looking for an oral surgeon in Raleigh? Dr. Gregory Taylor at Vista Oral Surgery and Implants is pre-booking consultations for the new year. Join the ribbon-cutting ceremony on Monday, Jan. 6 to tour the space and meet the team.*
Travel
Planning to take your RV on the open road in 2025? Buy coverage online in minutes with Roamly, rated five stars by thousands of RV owners.*
Beauty
Treat yourself to skin that’s merry and bright all season long at OVME. New clients get Botox for $9 per unit. Smooth fine lines and wrinkles while sipping on a glass of rosé. Snag this deal.*
Tech
Want to turn four-hour tasks into 15-minute wins? Download your free ChatGPT mastery guide for 100 battle-tested prompts you can copy/paste ASAP — no coding required. Plus, the guide explores how to use AI ethically at work.*
Wellness
Discover the secret to hearing every detail with the Horizon IX by hear.com. These discreet, rechargeable hearing aids deliver sound so clear and natural, you’ll forget you’re wearing them. With phone connectivity, award-winning service, and flexible payment options, join the 425,000+ customers who love them.*
Category
History
📍 Put Raleigh on the map
Don’t miss the Oakwood Halloween house — the yard is filled to the brim with scary creatures. | Photo by RALtoday
You’ve submitted your favorites, now it’s time for us to reveal the finalists for the RALtoday historical marker contest. Check out the nominations below, and don’t forget to vote for your favorite.
Jesse Jones’ Oakwood Halloween House
Scary decorations spill out into the street to strike horror into the hearts of passerbys. Bigger and more horrifying as the years go by. No wonder the neighbor across the street keeps her blinds closed and leaves for the beach.
The Rialto
Since 1942, The Rialto has stood in Five Points as a popular spot for movies, live music, and “Rocky Horror Picture Show.” After a stint of uncertainty, the Rialto returned under new ownership with a fresh blue look.
Players Retreat
This legendary NC State watering hole has been around in some form or fashion since 1951, and while its passed through many hands, Players Retreat is still beloved for its casual food, wide beer selection, and always fun atmosphere.
It doesn’t stop there — we received more submissions than these. Just check out our map of unofficial historical locations — both locally and across the nation.
Need stocking stuffers for everyone on your list? We’ve got you covered.
🎁 For the skincare aficionado: Laneige’s No. 1 bestselling lip mask in the candy cane flavor. 🎁 For those who eat, sleep, and breath organization: A mini label maker with creative functions and templates. 🎁 For the jewelry-obsessed: A stackable 18K gold plated necklace that you can customize with their initial. 🎁 For those who love to hit the trails: A classic knit beanie to keep their noggin warm while hiking. 🎁 For someone who’s always on the go: A magnetic portable charger that can charge up to four devices at once.
Today I’m reading about downtown rock club Kings and its 25th anniversary. Through two and a half decades of change — both inside the venue and on the streets of Raleigh — Kings still stands as an intimate setting for music in the Triangle
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