See & Do: December to January 2023

By Main and Broad
November 29, 2022

Fuquay-Varina Downtown Tacky Sweater Party

Dec. 3, 11 A.M. – 3 P.M.

Dust off those seasonal sweaters to attend Fuquay’s festive street party — enjoy live music from the band Crush, food and beer trucks, and a rock wall in the Vance Street lot. With a one-of-a-kind trophy and Downtown Dollars on the line, tacky sweater champions will be crowned in three categories: tackiest sweater, most festive sweater, and best head-to-toe outfit.

Winterfest with the Tree Trail at Ting Park

Dec. 2 – 3, 4 – 8:30 P.M.
Ting Park

Festive entertainment, a Winter Market, visits with Santa, appearances by Holly Springs Fire Department and Cinder the fi re dog, lighted Tree Trail, kids activities, hot cocoa, and more. Presented by the Holly Springs Chamber of Commerce.

The Dessertery

Through Dec. 23
Duke Energy Center for the Performing Arts
2 E. South St., Raleigh

A new holiday experience in downtown Raleigh that’s oh so sweet. All-you-can-eat specialty desserts and hot cocoa in an elaborate festive setting. Macaroons, cheesecakes, cupcakes, cookies … the list goes on. The hot cocoa bar boasts more than 50 toppings. Matinee and evening seatings available.

Photo courtesy of The Dessertery

Fuquay-Varina Christmas Parade

Dec. 4, 4 P.M.
Downtown Fuquay

Bring blankets and chairs to line the streets and cheer the parade participants as they take over historic downtown Fuquay. Be sure to wait until the grand finale — Santa’s sleigh coasting into Main Street.

Happy Holly Days Parade

Dec. 10, 10 A.M.
Downtown Holly Springs

Holly Springs’ annual parade travels along Main Street through downtown Holly Springs. Witness floats, bands, dancers, decorated vehicles, and a variety of entertainment.

Photo by Jonathan Fredin

Gingerbread Lane & the Rotary Christmas Parade

Dec. 3
Gingerbread Lane opens at 1 P.M.
Parade begins at 5 P.M.
Downtown Apex

Local businesses showcase festive displays and child-centered activities in e Depot parking lot, also known as Gingerbread Lane. Stick around for Apex’s Rotary Christmas Parade, the only nighttime holiday parade in Wake County. Parade begins at the intersection of Ambergate Station and e Peakway, heads down Salem Street, and ends at the Apex Public Works building on Upchurch Street. Proceeds from the event benefit Western Wake Crisis Ministry and other local nonprofits.

Christmas Tree and Wreath Auction and Exhibit

Dec. 2 – 19, 5 – 8 P.M.
Halle Cultural Arts Center, Apex

The annual Christmas Tree and Wreath Auction celebrates 15 years with a wonderland of whimsical greenery crafted by Apex-area businesses, individuals, and organizations. Attend the opening reception on Dec. 2 in conjunction with the town of Apex Christmas Tree Lighting and bid on a display to take home. Silent auction will close on Dec. 19 at 1 p.m. Proceeds benefit Western Wake Crisis Ministry.

Jingle Bell 5K Run

Dec. 17, 8 A.M.
WakeMed Soccer Park, Cary

Wear your favorite holiday costume and spread good cheer for a great cause at the Arthritis Foundation’s Jingle Bell 5K Run.

Celebrate the Festival of Lights

Dec. 19, 5:30 – 6:30 P.M.
Cary Arts Center, 101 Dry Ave., Cary

The Town of Cary has partnered with the Beth Shalom congregation, Jewish Federation of Raleigh-Cary, and Chabad of Cary for a special event on the second night of Hanukkah. The town will unveil and light a new menorah and celebrate with treats, fun for kids, and holiday music for all to enjoy. Rabbi Ariel Edery from Beth Shalom and Rabbi Yisroel Cotlar from Chabad of Cary will perform the lighting ceremony.

Photo by Jonathan Fredin

Big Band Swing, Blues and Holiday Tunes

Dec. 16, 7:30 P.M.
Fuquay-Varina Arts Center

Fuquay’s own Gerald Parker Jazz Orchestra delights with their special brand of swinging holiday tunes. Enjoy a great night of singing, dancing, and holiday merriment.

Fire and Ice Spectacular Hanukkah Celebration

Dec. 21, 4:30 – 6:30 P.M.
Fenton, 21 Fenton Main St., Cary

Join Fenton and Chabad of Cary for a special menorah lighting on the fourth night of Hanukkah. Guests can enjoy hot cocoa, ice skating, festive music, and the Yalla Kosher Food Truck. Reserve ice skating ($10 adults, $5 children) in advance through Chabad of Cary.

Kwanzaa Celebration

Dec. 30
Cary Arts Center, 101 Dry Ave., Cary

Commemorate Kwanzaa with a community celebration that honors African American people and their heritage. Produced by the Town of Cary and Ujima Group, a community-based nonprofit that utilizes educational programs and the arts to promote cultural diversity.

Photo by Jonathan Fredin