The 2024 Triangle holiday events guide: Christmas shows, Nutcrackers, concerts & tours

We’ve put together a collection of fun holiday events taking place across the Triangle, from light shows and parades to concerts, stage shows, holiday markets and much more.

We’ll update this list throughout the holiday season, so bookmark it online and check back often. If you see something we missed that you think we should include, let us know by emailing ask@newsobserver.com.

Important: Whenever possible, please check the website for each event or venue prior to heading out to verify hours of operation (which can change) and to learn more about rain dates for outdoor events.

Holiday Express at Pullen Park

Raleigh’s Pullen Park transforms into a winter wonderland each year, offering train rides and holiday lights with Santa appearances, carolers and more. Two sensory-friendly nights will take place Saturday, Dec. 7 and Sunday, Dec. 15. Gates will open 4:30 p.m. (except during sensory-friendly nights), and the event runs from 5 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Tickets sold out fast, but if you’re lucky enough to be going, here’s what you need to know. When: Dec. 2-15 Where: Pullen Park, 520 Ashe Ave. in Raleigh Info: raleighnc.gov/parks/services/holiday-express

Theatre in the Park’s ‘A Christmas Carol’

Ira David Wood III’s “A Christmas Carol” celebrated its 50th anniversary last season. This year, you can watch the show at the Martin Marietta Center for The Performing Arts in Raleigh or at DPAC in Durham. Tickets start at $30. When: Dec. 6-8 at Martin Marietta Center and Dec. 18-22 at DPAC Info: theatreinthepark.com

NC Chinese Lantern Festival

Cary’s Koka Booth Amphitheatre will host the festival for the 9th year. You can purchase a ticket for any night, a Twilight Ticket experience or a VIP Tour Experience ticket. There are also date-specific tickets and a sensory friendly night, which will be Tuesday, Dec. 3. There are four Chinese traditional stage performances each night (weather permitting) starting at 5:30 p.m. When: Nov. 16-Jan. 12 Where: 8003 Regency Pkwy in Cary Info: boothamphitheatre.com

Historic Oakwood Candlelight Tour

Ten properties in the Historic Oakwood neighborhood open their doors to visitors during the Annual Historic Oakwood Candlelight Tour. Tickets are $40 each and discounted for groups. This is a rain or shine event. When: Dec. 14 and 15, 1-7 p.m. each day Where: The Tucker House, 418 N. Person St. in Raleigh Info: historicoakwood.org

Holiday tour of the Governor’s Mansion

The state’s Executive Mansion will open its doors again for the annual Holiday Open House, which will feature North Carolina-grown Christmas trees, floral and mixed evergreen arrangements and ornate mantle displays. Seasonal musical entertainment will be performed by local groups. Admission is free, and there are no reservations. When: Dec. 12-14 Where: 200 N Blount St. in Raleigh Info: dncr.nc.gov

North Carolina Symphony

The NC Symphony plays at the 1,700-seater Meymandi Concert Hall, located at 2 E South St. in Raleigh. For information and tickets, visit ncsymphony.org/concerts-events.

▪ Cirque Holiday Pops: Contortionists and acrobats will perform 40 feet above the Symphony. Tickets begin at $26. Five shows will be performed between Wednesday, Nov. 27 and Saturday, Nov. 30.

▪ Classical Christmas with Carlos: Messiah & More: Music director Carlos Miguel Prieto will conduct selections from Bach’s Christmas Oratorio and Handel’s Messiah, including the Hallelujah Chorus. Tickets begin at $49. Three shows will be performed between Friday, Dec. 6 and Saturday, Dec. 7.

▪ Ugly Sweater Pops: Holiday Pops favorites with an ugly sweater contest. Tickets begin at $25. One show will be performed on Friday, Dec. 13.

▪ A Candlelight Christmas: This candlelight-illumined show features a full orchestra and children’s choir. Tickets begin at $28. Three shows will be performed between Friday, Dec. 20 and Sunday, Dec. 22.

Santas of Color in Raleigh & Durham

Santas Just Like Me has been providing Santas of color across North Carolina since 2013. Here’s where you can visit with a Black, brown or interracial Santa in the Triangle this year. Make an appointment at santasjustlikeme.com/book-now. Some events allow walk-ins for no cost.

Hayti Heritage Center, located at 804 Old Fayetteville Rd. in Durham.

• Dec 20: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Dec 21: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Dec 22: 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.
• Dec 23: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Dec 24: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The Pope House, located at 511 S. Wilmington St. in Raleigh:

• Dec 7: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Dec 8: 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Santa visits throughout December

You can also visit local malls and some big box stores to see Santa (sometimes with your pets) and buy photos:

▪ Raleigh’s Crabtree Valley Mall: Until Tuesday, Dec. 24. Pet day events are Mondays Dec. 2, 9 and 16. Reservations are strongly encouraged and require a $20 deposit at the time of booking, which includes a credit toward the purchase of your photos and/or digital downloads. Families are asked to arrive no more than five minutes before their appointment times. A digital download costs about $46, while two prints of any size cost about $35. Info: shopcrabtree.com/events

▪ Durham’s The Streets of Southpoint Mall: Until Tuesday, Dec. 24. Southpoint offers visits and photos with Santa, along with pet photos (Mondays and Tuesdays through Dec. 10) and a sensory friendly visit day (Sunday, Dec. 8). Reservations are strongly encouraged, though walk-ins are accepted. Visit packages range from about $20 to $50, which is due at the time of booking. Info: streetsatsouthpoint.com

▪ Raleigh’s Triangle Town Center: Until Tuesday, Dec. 24. Pets are welcome Mondays. Info: triangletowncenter.com

▪ Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s (+ free photos): Visits come with a “free 4x6 photo with Santa” and “a free shareable video.” Photo packages with more prints begin at $20. There’s a Bass Pro Shops in Cary, a Cabela’s in Garner and another Bass Pro Shops in Concord. Info: basspro.com/shop/en/santas-wonderland

Carolina Ballet’s ‘The Nutcracker’

This is the second season of Carolina Ballet’s reimagined Nutcracker with new choreography, sets and costumes. The Nutcracker is performed at Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts, accompanied by a live symphony orchestra, and tickets start at $40. When: Dec. 12-24 Where: 2 E. South St., Raleigh Info: carolinaballet.com/the-nutcracker

‘Cinderella’ by the Raleigh Little Theatre

Raleigh Little Theatre’s annual holiday show is celebrating its 40th year. The musical comedy is for all ages. Showtime is approximately 90 minutes without an intermission. Tickets are $38 for adults and $32 for children (ages 12 and under). When: Dec. 6-22, Thursday through Sunday Where: Cantey V. Sutton Theatre, 301 Pogue St. in Raleigh Info: raleighlittletheatre.org

Triangle Treasure Hunt: Holiday Edition

Follow holiday-themed clues to find the treasure chest. The hunt involves walking a distance of up to two miles and is a rain or shine event. Tickets start at $12. When: Dec. 7-21 (weekends only) Where: Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill, Apex, Cary, Fuquay-Varina and Wendell locations Info: triangletreasurehunt.com

Holidays in the Park at the Durham’s Museum of Life & Science

The museum lights up the park for select evenings in December, letting you stroll through indoor and outdoor spaces under twinkling holiday lights. You can also take an “illuminating train ride on the Ellerbe Creek Railway, passing colorful light displays along the way.” Tickets start at $17. When: Nov. 30 to Dec. 29 on select nights Where: Museum of Life & Science, 433 W. Murray Ave. in Durham Info: lifeandscience.org/explore

A Christmas Carol by Center Theater Company

There are over 50 multi-generational Triangle community members in the production. Tickets are $30 for adults and $20 for children 12 and under. When: Dec. 6-22 Where: Center Theater, 300-G E Main St. in Carrboro Info: centertheatercompany.com

Downtown Cary Park’s skating rink

Downtown Cary Park’s Park Streets Courts will transform into a free-to-all skating rink throughout December. The park does not take reservations and operates on a first-come, first-serve basis, so prepare to wait in line. Skate sizes run from a toddler’s size 8/9 to adult size 14. A special time for toddlers is Tuesdays at 10 a.m. and sensory-friendly skating time is Tuesdays at 4 p.m. When: Dec. 1 to Jan. 4 (closed Dec. 24-26 and Jan. 1) Where: 327 S. Academy St. in Cary Info: downtowncarypark.com/things-to-do

Skate the Square at Fenton

Reservations include skate rental and 75 minutes of ice time. General sale tickets at $19.50, but Monday tickets are $15.50. The rink will be open Christmas Eve and Day, plus New Year’s Eve and Day. When: Nov. 8 to Feb. 9 Where: 21 Fenton Main St. in Cary Info: fentonnc.com/event

Holiday films at The Cary Theater

The Cary Theater is showing a collection of holiday favorites from Thursday, Dec. 12 to Sunday, Dec. 22. The Cary Theater is located at 122 E Chatham St. in Cary. Get more information at thecarytheater.com/whatshappeningposts.

‘White Christmas’ (1954) sing-along:

• Thursday Dec. 12 at 7:30 p.m.

• Friday, Dec. 13 at 8 p.m.

• Saturday, Dec. 14 at 7 p.m.

• Sunday, Dec. 15 at 2 p.m.

‘ A Christmas Story’ (1983):

• Sunday, Dec. 15 at 5 p.m.
• Thursday, Dec. 19 at 1:30 p.m.

‘It’s a Wonderful Life’ (1946):

• Wednesday, Dec. 18 at 1:30 and 7:30 p.m.
• Friday, Dec. 20 at 2 p.m.

‘Home Alone’ (1990) with a hot chocolate bar:

• Wednesday, Dec. 18 at 4:30 p.m.
• Friday, Dec. 20 at 8 p.m.
• Saturday, Dec. 21 at 2 p.m.

‘Elf’ (2003) with a hot chocolate bar:

• Friday, Dec. 20 at 8 p.m.
• Saturday, Dec. 21 at 5 p.m.
• Sunday, Dec. 22 at 2 p.m.

‘National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation’ (1989) with an ugly sweater contest:

• Saturday, Dec. 21 at 8 p.m.
• Sunday, Dec. 22 at 5 p.m.

Day-by-day holiday events list

FRIDAY, NOV. 29

Holiday Music on the Roof: United Strings of Color: Listen to a holiday-themed performance on a heated rooftop from United Strings of Color, a classical string quartet composed of young African American musicians. Enjoy festive drinks and seasonal bites from a holiday menu. 7:30 p.m. at The Durham Hotel (315 E. Chapel Hill St. in Durham)

SATURDAY, NOV. 30

Holiday Music on the Roof: Bell Durham: Listen to a holiday-themed performance on a heated rooftop from Bell Durham is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to sharing the joy of handbell music. Enjoy festive drinks and seasonal bites from a holiday menu. 7:30 p.m. at The Durham Hotel (315 E. Chapel Hill St. in Durham)

SUNDAY, DEC. 1

Holiday Gift Market: 250+ exhibitors come together every year showcasing arts and crafts, food, gifts, holiday decorations and more. The 90,000 square foot Jim Graham Building makes this one of the largest Christmas gift shows in the state. The fair requires admission, which is $10 max per ticket. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. at the Jim Graham Building at the N.C. State Fairgrounds, 4285 Trinity Rd. in Raleigh.

WEDNESDAY, DEC. 4

Sounds of Christmas Concerts: First Cary United Methodist Church is hosting a number of free concerts throughout December. The concert is in the Sanctuary, Building A with lunch to follow. 12-1 p.m. at 117 S. Academy St. in Cary

Grand Menorah Lighting in The Pit at UNC: Celebrate Chanukah with a Grand Menorah Lighting in the Pit with Chancellor Roberts. 11:45 a.m. on UNC Chapel Hill’s campus.

FRIDAY, DEC. 6

Santa Paws: Bring your pup out to meet Mr. and Mrs. Claus and get photos with your pet. This event also includes a canine holiday ugly sweater contest, holiday pet market and canine food and toy drive. 5-8:30 p.m. at the Durham Armory (212 Foster St. in Durham)

Wendell Wonderland: The Town of Wendell’s annual holiday festival including craft vendors, food trucks, a cookie walk and visits from Santa. Every year thousands come to walk down Main Street and experience the small-town charm for the holiday season. 5-9 p.m. at 99 West 3rd St. in Wendell

Carrboro Tree Lighting Ceremony: Carrboro welcomes all to join members of the Town Council along with local schoolchildren as we officially kick off the season with music and the lighting of the community tree. 6 p.m. at 301 W. Main St. in Carrboro

Northeast Piedmont Chorale’s holiday concert: This is a concert of holiday music from around the world, called “Joy Around the World,” directed by Cindy Edwards. 7:30 p.m. at Wake Forest Baptist Church (107 E South Ave. in Wake Forest)

Cary Town Band’s Winterfest concert: Join the Cary Town Band for this annual concert. This year’s event will light up the Senior Center Ballroom with festive music for Christmas and Hanukkah, culminating in our cherished Christmas carol sing-along. 7:30 p.m. at the Cary Center Senior Ballroom (120 Maury Odell Pl in Cary)

Legacy of Jazz at The Cary Theater: Join renowned vocalist and cellist Shana Tucker as she brings her unique genre of “ChamberSoul” to some of your favorite holiday standards. Shana is joined by award winning jazz pianist and arranger Christian Tamburr and his trio. Tickets start at $35. 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. at The Cary Theater (122 E Chatham St. in Cary)

Holiday Sip ‘n Shop at the City of Raleigh Museum: Enjoy a holiday drink while browsing gifts by local artists, craftspeople, and makers. There will also be a raffle to win Holiday Express tickets. Free event, but registration is requested. 5:30-9 p.m. at the City of Raleigh Museum (220 Fayetteville St. in Raleigh)

SATURDAY, DEC. 7

Northeast Piedmont Chorale’s holiday concert: This is a concert of holiday music from around the world, called “Joy Around the World,” directed by Cindy Edwards. 7:30 p.m. at Trinity Baptist Church (4815 Six Forks Rd. in Raleigh)

Cary Tree Lighting Ceremony: The tree lighting ceremony includes photos with Santa and arts & craft activities. Visit Cary’s website to fill out an accessibility form, if needed. 6 p.m. at Downtown Cary Park (327 S. Academy St. in Cary)

Apex’s Rotary Christmas Parade: This is the only nighttime holiday parade in Wake County, and proceeds benefit numerous local charities. The primary benefactor is Western Wake Crisis Ministry. Attendees can place chairs along the sidewalk after 12 p.m. on Saturday. 5 p.m. in Downtown Apex on Salem Street

Victorian Christmas at the Page-Walker: There will be cookies, carolers, an activity for kids, holiday stories and a visit from Santa. The Cary Tree Lighting Ceremony will take place at Downtown Cary Park afterwards. 2-5 p.m. at the Page-Walker Arts & History Center (119 Ambassador Loop in Cary)

Durham German Market: Enjoy live music, children’s activities, and festive decorations that capture the essence of a traditional German market. There will be food and beverages from local vendors, including traditional German fare. 3-9 p.m. at Durham Central Park (501 Foster St. in Durham)

Jolly Raleigh Holiday Market: Presented by Shop Local Raleigh to celebrate small businesses. You can sip local beer, shop local treasures and find kids activities. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. at Raleigh Iron Works, 1101 E Whitaker Mill Rd. in Raleigh.

Art-n-Soul Holiday Market @ Waverly Place: Shop the market while you wander Waverly Place Shopping Center. 12-4 p.m. at Waverly Place, 302 Colonades Way in Cary.

The Holiday Market at NCMA: Browse the galleries, enjoy the museum park, and shop local. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. at the North Carolina Museum of Art, 2110 Blue Ridge Rd. in Raleigh.

SUNDAY, DEC. 8

Bells of Christmas Concert: First Cary United Methodist Church is hosting a number of free concerts throughout December. The concert is in the Sanctuary, Building A. 3 p.m. at 117 S. Academy St. in Cary

Chapel Hill Tree Lighting: There will be cookies, cocoa, caroling and a performance by the UNC Tarpeggios in the UBC Memorial Garden. 6-7 p.m. at 100 S. Columbia St. in Chapel Hill

Handmade Hanukkah Market: This annual event showcases crafts and handiwork from Jewish artisans. 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Temple Beth Or, 5315 Creedmoor Rd. in Raleigh.

WEDNESDAY, DEC. 11

Holiday Market at The Durham: Gather to celebrate the season with festive drinks and shopping for gifts from local vendors. This year’s Holiday Market will raise awareness and funds for non-profit Y Learning from the Durham YMCA. Tickets are required, but the event is sold out. 6-9 p.m. at The Durham Hotel (315 E. Chapel Hill St. in Durham)

Holiday Music on the Roof: Ally J: Listen to a holiday-themed performance on a heated rooftop from Ally J, a Durham-based singer/songwriter. Enjoy festive drinks and seasonal bites from a holiday menu. 7:30 p.m. at The Durham Hotel (315 E. Chapel Hill St. in Durham)

Sounds of Christmas Concerts: First Cary United Methodist Church is hosting a number of free concerts throughout December. The concert is in the Sanctuary, Building A with lunch to follow. 12-1 p.m. at 117 S. Academy St. in Cary

THURSDAY, DEC. 12

State Tree Lighting: The festivities will begin on Capitol Square with luminaries and holiday music performed by the Raleigh Concert Band. The governor and dignitaries will then visit the South grounds to officially begin the ceremony. The lit tree will be visible the length of Fayetteville Street, and Santa will be there. After the ceremony, attendees can come into the Capitol to experience its holiday decorations. 5:30 p.m. at 1 E Edenton St. in Raleigh

FRIDAY, DEC. 13

Christmas play & musical at The Halle: ‘Can Mrs. Claus Save Christmas?’ and ‘How to Become and Elf’ will be performed as a play and musical combo. Tickets start at $10. 7:30 p.m. at The Halle Cultural Arts Center, 237 N. Salem St. in Apex

Santa’s Trolley: Help Santa on this special Historic Raleigh Trolley Tour. Santa is lost in Raleigh and Holly the Elf needs your help to find him in time for Christmas. Tickets start at $15. 5-7 p.m. at Mordecai Historic Park, 1 Mimosa St. in Raleigh.

Soulful Holiday Open House: At this free event, activities will include inflatables, trackless train rides, photo opportunities, crafts, carol-oke, light holiday-themed refreshments, live entertainment by Soultriii, beautiful decorations and more. 5:30-9 p.m. at John Chavis Memorial Park, 505 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd in Raleigh.

SATURDAY, DEC. 14

Santa on the Roof: This is a free event. Attendees will be responsible for taking their own photos. Santa joins us from the North Pole via Santas Just Like Me, a local organization that provides Santas of color. 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at The Durham Hotel (315 E. Chapel Hill St. in Durham)

Art-n-Soul Holiday Market @ Mystic Farm & Distillery: Enjoy authentic eggnog and free bourbon tasting while taking in the unique setting and vibe of the bourbon barrel-lined event space. Meet Santa Claus and snap a selfie with him by the bourbon barrels. There will also be craft cocktails and live music. 12-4 p.m. at Mystic Farm & Distillery, 1413 Stallings Rd. in Durham.

Vocal Arts Ensemble winter concert: Free admission. 4 p.m. at Trinity United Methodist Church (216 N. Church St. in Durham)

Christmas play & musical at The Halle: ‘Can Mrs. Claus Save Christmas?’ and ‘How to Become and Elf’ will be performed as a play and musical combo. Tickets start at $10. 3 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. shows atThe Halle Cultural Arts Center (237 N. Salem St. in Apex)

Durham Holiday Parade: Cheer on hometown bands, drill teams, schools, and community groups as they make their way down Main Street at the Durham Holiday Parade. The procession will conclude with a guest appearance from Santa. 10 a.m. on Main Street in Downtown Durham.

SUNDAY, DEC. 15

Cary Christmas Celebration Concert: First Cary United Methodist Church is hosting a number of free concerts throughout December. The concert is in the Sanctuary, Building A with a dessert reception to follow in the Fellowship Hall, Building A. 3 p.m. at 117 S. Academy St. in Cary

Hanukkah 8K & Fun Run: This event is for runners and casual walkers. Donuts and Hanukkah gelt served at the end. Participants are asked to RSVP before the event. 9 a.m.-12 p.m. at Levin JCC, 1937 W Cornwallis Rd. in Durham.

Oakwood Waits - Songs and Carols for the Holiday Season: A cappella caroling ensemble dressed in authentic 1840’s costume will present a concert of medieval to modern carols for the holiday season. Proceeds will benefit Western North Carolina Hurricane Relief, and a $10 minimum donation is suggested. 7:30 p.m. in the sanctuary of St. Michael’s Episcopal Church, 1520 Canterbury Rd. in Raleigh.

Christmas play & musical at The Halle: ‘Can Mrs. Claus Save Christmas?’ and ‘How to Become and Elf’ will be performed as a play and musical combo. Tickets start at $10. 3 p.m. at The Halle Cultural Arts Center (237 N. Salem St. in Apex)

Durham Craft Holiday Market: Shop from dozens of local artisans and makers for unique handmade gifts. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Durham Central Park, 501 Foster St. in Durham.

WEDNESDAY, DEC. 18

Holiday Cookie Decorating: Baked cookies will be ready for your child to decorate using icing and sprinkles. Please be sure to bring a large container with a tight lid with you to take home your cookies. This is a free event with required pre-registration. 6-7 p.m. at W.D. Hill Recreation Center (1308 Fayetteville St. in Durham)

‘Elf’ at The Halle: Free showing of this family-friendly movie. 10 a.m. at The Halle Cultural Arts Center (237 N. Salem St. in Apex)

Holiday Music on the Roof: Triangle Gay Men’s Chorus: Listen to a holiday-themed performance on a heated rooftop from the Triangle Gay Men’s Chorus, a Raleigh-based nonprofit performing arts organization offering quality men’s choral music. 7:30 p.m. at The Durham Hotel (315 E. Chapel Hill St. in Durham)

Sounds of Christmas Concerts: First Cary United Methodist Church is hosting a number of free concerts throughout December. The concert is in the Sanctuary, Building A with lunch to follow. 12-1 p.m. at 117 S. Academy St. in Cary

Harmony Holiday Party: This party, hosted by Harmony: NC LGBT+ Allied Chamber of Commerce, is open to anyone 21+ and promises delicious food, a complimentary drink and the opportunity to meet new people in the LGBT+ community. Register online. 6-8 p.m. at Renaissance Hotel North Hills (4100 Main at North Hills St. in Raleigh)

Queer Holiday Mixer: This is holiday mixer, open to women and those who identify as female, is a great opportunity to connect with fellow LGBTQ+ individuals and allies in a welcoming and inclusive environment. Tickets are $10, you can buy them online. 7-11 p.m. at The Dogwood Bar & Eatery (610 Glenwood Ave. in Raleigh)

THURSDAY, DEC. 19

Holiday Cheer with Newberry & Verch at The Cary Theater: Growing up, musicians Joe Newberry and April Verch absorbed traditions of home and hearth – in his Missouri Ozarks and her Ottawa Valley of Canada. Lively fiddle and banjo numbers combine with traditional dance steps to illustrate happy times when people made their own fun at the holidays, and all year long. 7 p.m. at The Cary Theater (122 E Chatham St. in Cary)

Drive-In Movie (‘The Polar Express’) at Pleasant Park: This event will feature a make-your-own popcorn bar, jingle bell craft bracelet station and a “Cream and Sugar” food truck. Attendees can watch from inside their vehicles or in a lawn chair. Registration is required. 6-8 p.m. at Pleasant Park’s parking lot closest to the Enchanted Playground (3400 Pleasant Plns Rd in Apex)

SATURDAY, DEC. 21

AFHS Band’s Holiday Showcase: Join Apex Friendship High School performers for a lively, varied showcase of holiday tunes, classical pieces and other selections. A portion of the ticket sales benefits the AFHS Bands program. Tickets begin at $10. 3 p.m. at The Halle Cultural Arts Center, 237 N. Salem St. in Apex.

Cuts & Christmas: Raleigh’s partners at All-Embracing Barber and Beauty Shop will be offering free haircuts and handing out gifts for all children. 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Sanderford Road Community Center, 2623 Sanderford Rd. in Raleigh.

SUNDAY, DEC. 22

Hanukkah Festival with Jewish for Good: The annual event will include latkas for sale, sugar cookie decorating, dreidel decorating, a menorah lighting and more. Participants are asked to RSVP before the event. 2-5 p.m. at Levin JCC, 1937 W Cornwallis Rd. in Durham.

THURSDAY, DEC. 26

Menorah Lighting & Chanukah Celebration at Crabtree: The menorah is located on the second floor near Abercrombie. Join for the menorah lighting, donuts, songs and more. This is a free event but donations are appreciated. 4:30 p.m. at Crabtree Valley Mall, 4325 Glenwood Ave. in Raleigh.

Hayti Legacy Kwanzaa Celebration: This event is curated by The Magic of African Rhythm. The suggested donation is $1 to $5. All proceeds support the Hayti Legacy Kwanzaa & Hayti Heritage Center. 1-6 p.m. at Hayti Heratige Center, 804 Old Fayetteville St. in Durham.

FRIDAY, DEC. 27

Menorah Lighting in Morrisville: General parking at Town Hall or behind the Town Connecter Building. 4 p.m. at the Indian Creek Greenway and Trailhead, 101 Town Hall Dr. in Morrisville.

The Motown Sounds of Christmas: The Town of Cary and Pure Life Theatre Company join together again to produce this joyful Motown show, creating a holiday experience full of soul and joy. Tickets start at $20. 7:30 p.m. at The Cary Arts Center, 101 Dry Ave. in Cary.

SATURDAY, DEC. 28

The Motown Sounds of Christmas: The Town of Cary and Pure Life Theatre Company join together again to produce this joyful Motown show, creating a holiday experience full of soul and joy. Tickets start at $20. 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. at The Cary Arts Center, 101 Dry Ave. in Cary.

SUNDAY, DEC. 29

Cary Kwanzaa Celebration: Learn more about and celebrate the seven principals of Kwanzaa through demonstrations, performance, and art activities. There will be food trucks and vendors as well. Join our vibrant community for this engaging event for all ages. 1-7 p.m. at the Cary Arts Center (101 Dry Ave. in Cary)

Chanukah Festival in Apex: This event is organized by Chabad of Cary and will feature games, crafts, food and will end with a menorah lighting on Town Campus. Participants can park on Town Hall Campus or anywhere downtown. Children’s activities 3:30-5:30 p.m. and menorah lighting 5 p.m. at the Apex Senior Center, 63 Hunter St. in Apex.

Chanukah Parade in Raleigh: The event will include a petting zoo, latkes, donuts, live music, a gelt drop, a photo booth and more. The parade will start 2:45 p.m. at LaFayette Village, 8450 Honeycutt Road, Raleigh.

MONDAY, DEC. 30

Cary’s Hanukkah Menorah Lighting: Visit Downtown Cary Park for the menorah lighting on the 6th night of Hanukkah. Enjoy an activity for kids, holiday music, a sweet treat and the lighting of the menorah.The menorah at Cary Arts Center will be lit each evening through Jan. 2. 5:30-6:30 p.m. at 327 S. Academy St. in Cary

WEDNESDAY, JAN. 1

39th Kwanzaa Fest: Join the African American Dance Ensemble to celebrate the 39th annual Kwanzaa event. This year, the group will focus on the principle of Imani, which stands for Faith — believing wholeheartedly in our community and the justice and triumph of our journey. Attendees are encouraged to bring canned goods and toiletries to donate to Ummi’s Ummah. 12 p.m. at the Durham Armory, 212 Foster St. in Durham.

This story was originally published November 29, 2024 at 6:00 AM with the headline "The 2024 Triangle holiday events guide: Christmas shows, Nutcrackers, concerts & tours."