Raleigh Christmas Parade 2025 Guide Key Basics
The Raleigh Christmas Parade 2025 kicks off on Saturday, November 22, at 9:30 a.m., bringing holiday cheer to downtown Raleigh with floats, marching bands, and Santa’s grand finale. Covering a 1.4-mile route from Hillsborough Street at St. Marys to Lenoir Street, this family-friendly event lasts about 2 to 2.5 hours and is broadcast live on ABC11 and streaming online. Streets close early, so locals and visitors are encouraged to arrive between 7:00 and 8:00 a.m. to secure the best viewing spots along Hillsborough Street, Fayetteville Street, and near the State Capitol. With free parking decks, festive performances, and plenty of downtown activities before and after the parade, it’s one of Raleigh’s most anticipated holiday traditions.
2025 N.C. State Fair: The Ultimate Guide
The 2025 North Carolina State Fair returns to Raleigh from October 16–26, 2025, bringing eleven days of rides, food, music, and family fun to the NC State Fairgrounds. Known as one of the largest and most beloved fall events in the Southeast, the fair attracts visitors with nearly 100 carnival rides, nightly fireworks, live entertainment, agricultural exhibits, and endless food options from deep-fried favorites to local craft beverages. Whether you’re planning your first trip or returning for annual traditions, this guide covers everything you need to know about tickets, discounts, rides, food highlights, parking, and insider tips to make the most of your visit to the NC State Fair in Raleigh.
Raleigh Wide Open: A Deep Dive into October’s Must-Attend Festival
As your local Realtors, we're bringing you an in-depth preview of the Raleigh Wide Open Music Festival, returning October 3–4, 2025, downtown Raleigh.
Hopscotch Music Festival 2025: 15 Years of Music, Community, and Raleigh Energy
This September, downtown Raleigh will once again transform into a massive celebration of sound and community. The Hopscotch Music Festival is returning for its 15th anniversary from September 4 through September 6, 2025. Known as one of the most dynamic and adventurous music festivals in the country, Hopscotch brings together dozens of venues, hundreds of performances, and thousands of fans right in the heart of North Carolina.
African American Cultural Festival 2025 in Raleigh
The African American Cultural Festival 2025 in downtown Raleigh, North Carolina, is one of the Triangle’s most anticipated events. This free family-friendly festival happens during Labor Day weekend, August 31–September 1, 2025, along the 400 block of Fayetteville Street, Raleigh. It’s Raleigh’s premier cultural festival, celebrating African American heritage through art, music, dance, food, and community.
Kirby Derby 2025 – Raleigh’s Most Outrageous Soapbox Race Returns
If you’re looking for unique, family-friendly events in Raleigh this summer, make plans to attend the 2025 Kirby Derby on Saturday, August 23, 2025, from 3:30 PM to 8:00 PM at Dorothea Dix Park. This offbeat Raleigh tradition is known for its wild soapbox races, creative costumes, and quirky community spirit.
Lazy Daze Arts & Crafts Festival 2025
Looking for exciting things to do in Cary, NC this summer? Mark your calendar for the 49th Annual Lazy Daze Arts & Crafts Festival, happening Saturday and Sunday, August 23–24, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM each day. This beloved event transforms Downtown Cary into a vibrant showcase of local talent, featuring more than 250 artists, four stages of live entertainment, and over 25 food and beverage vendors.