It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and the Triangle is full of festive events for the whole family! Whether the kids are out of school, the in-laws are in town, or you just want to spend a weekend full of holiday cheer, we’ve created a list of merry events and activities happening this month in Durham and the surrounding areas.
Get all your Christmas shopping done at Southpoint Mall (and meet Santa!): There’s nothing quite like a mall during the holiday season: the hustle and bustle of shoppers, the Christmas music, the sales, and of course, Santa. Stop by The Streets at Southpoint this month for a one-stop shop for all your gift needs. And don’t miss your photo op with the man of the season, Santa himself. Reserve your spot with Kris Kringle here.
The Streets at Southpoint, 6910 Fayetteville Road, Durham, NC 27713
Be awed at the North Carolina Chinese Lantern Festival, November 23, 2018-January 19, 2019, $10-15
Immerse yourself in lights and Chinese culture at the 3rd annual Chinese Lantern Festival. The festival features 20 displays made from over 15,000 LED lights, including the star of the show—the breathtaking Chinese dragon. The dragon stands at 20 feet long and weighs over 18,000 pounds! In addition to all the stunning lights and lanterns, the festival features traditional Chinese dance, drum performances, martial arts, and more.
Koka Booth Amphitheatre, 8003 Regency Parkway Cary, NC 27518
Take a journey with Clara during The Nutcracker Ballet, December 29-December 30, $40+
The classic Russian ballet following a young girl on a whimsical adventure has become a holiday tradition, and this year will be offered at the DPAC, presented by The Carolina Ballet. This performance of The Nutcracker uses illusions created by renowned magician Rick Thomas—making it the only one of its kind.
123 Vivian Street, Durham, North Carolina 27701
Binge watch classic holiday movies at the Lumina in Chapel Hill, Saturdays in December, $1
One of the best things about the holiday season is watching (and re-watching) classic holiday movies. Whether it’s an old classic, like It’s a Wonderful Life, or a newer classic like Elf—there’s just something about snuggling up with a mug of hot chocolate and watching a festive film. The Lumina is an independent theater in Chapel Hill that’s showing holiday favorites every Saturday in December. On the line-up is Christmas Vacation, Love, Actually, and more. The best part? Tickets are only $1.00.
The Lumina Theater, 620 Market St., Chapel Hill, NC 27312
Durham Holiday Parade and Fun Fest, December 8, 2018, free
What’s the holiday season without a parade? This annual tradition will take place on December 8 in downtown Durham and will feature floats, marching bands, drill teams, and of course, Santa himself. Immediately following the parade is Fun Fest, a free event featuring pony rides, a bouncy house, arts and crafts, and the headliner: the Peppermint Plunge—snow sledding for both children and adults!
W Main Street, Durham NC 27705
Whether you spend your holidays with snow and Santa, or family and films, Durham and the surrounding Triangle has plenty to offer. Just a short drive from the Bull City, a new living community is taking shape. 751 South offers new single family homes, townhomes, parks, retail, and an amenity center with family friendly activities and conveniences. New homes are currently for sale. For more information on living at 751 South, fill out a contact form here.