Holiday Fun Around the Triangle
Welcome to December! If you’re like me, you have no idea how we got here and where 2025 went. But so it goes. If you’re also like me, you might be wondering what fun holiday activities there are around the Triangle? What Winter or Christmas things can you do with your little ones? Today on the blog we’re running down a few of our favorite things to do this time of year. Check it out.
There are definitely some stalwart traditions around the Triangle during the holidays - the Holiday Express at Pullen Park or the decorations at the Angus Barn - that everyone has to do at least once. But these two things are not last minute excursions. You have to plan for both of these nearly a year in advance, sorry. So put those on your list for next year. But for this year, there’s still plenty of time to explore some of our favs.
Chinese Lantern Festival at Koka Booth
The North Carolina Chinese Lantern Festival is truly a magical thing to behold. Every year at the Koka Booth Amphitheatre, these handcrafted, illuminated lanterns are displayed around the grounds. The displays are larger than life and you can walk through them, while sipping hot chocolate or also take in the performances happening on the stage. Visiting the Chinese lanterns is a tradition for many families each year.
Santa Town Experience at North Hills
Are you looking for a truly special visit to Santa? Then definitely check out the Santa Town Experience at North Hills in Raleigh. The decorations here are perfection and this Santa is one of the best around. There are also fun activities for the kiddos and of course the iconic photo on Santa’s lap. You can make a reservation ahead of time and the cost will go towards your photos.
Downtown Cary Park Winter Lights
If you haven’t visited the new Downtown Cary Park, there’s no better time to explore than now. In December, all of Downtown is decorated with fabulous winter lights that celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and the winter holidays. Saturday December 6 is the tree lighting ceremony downtown and there will be food trucks, crafts, fun family activities, and more happening all day.
The Winter Song Road Lights
Winter Song Road in the Bedford neighborhood of Raleigh becomes transformed in December. The entire street goes all out with the most impressive display of Christmas decorations and lights. This is meant to be a walking experience, so park your car at the Shoppes at Bedford, grab a hot chocolate, and take a stroll through a magical, winter wonderland.
Sunset Hills Christmas Balls in Greensboro
Okay, so technically Greensboro is not part of the Triangle, but the Christmas Balls in Sunset Hills is one of the most magical and beautiful holiday decorations around. (I grew up in Greensboro and this has been our family tradition for nearly two decades.) Each year, the Sunset Hills neighborhood strings up thousands and thousands of lighted balls in the trees, making this a breathtaking experience to walk or drive through. You could make a day out of your trip to Greensboro by visiting the Greensboro Science Center and then make your way through Sunset Hills before heading home. Trust me, it’s worth it.
These are just a few of our favorite holiday things to do around the Triangle. Share your favorite holiday fun activities with us in the comments.