As December rolls into Raleigh, the Historic Resources and Museum (HRM) Program is prepping to turn the city into a winter wonderland with an array of festive activities. From the Sip n' Shop event to Santa's potential predicament on the Raleigh Trolley, the month is filled with opportunities to engage with the local culture and holiday spirit.
For those who fancy a tipple while ticking off the holiday shopping list, the City of Raleigh Museum opens its doors for the First Friday Holiday Sip n' Shop on December 5, from 5 to 9 p.m. According to the City of Raleigh, patrons can expect to find unique gifts crafted by local artists and vendors, with the added bonus of the museum's exhibits as a backdrop.
Another notable event chugs out of Latta University Historic Park, where families will board a trolley to Fred Fletcher Park to construct a gingerbread house. The Gingerbread and a Jolly Trolley Ride begins on December 6 at 1 p.m., embracing Raleigh's history through sweet confections and holiday decor.
For those seeking a continental holiday vibe, Moore Square will transform into a European-style Christmas Market for the Winterfaire. Occurring December 11 to 14, the festival promises a diverse mix of over 60 vendors, live music, and festivities fit for all ages. The Santa hunt is on as well, with the Historic Raleigh Trolley setting off on evenings between December 12 to 14 to help Holly the Elf find the missing man in red.
Historic highlights continue at Mordecai Historic Park with the Merry and Bright Market and the annual Holiday Open House on December 13. Attendees will explore traditions spanning 240 years, participate in games, crafts, and savor period-accurate decorations and music, reflecting the rich past of the Mordecai House.
To round out the holiday activities, the Pope House Museum presents Holidays with the Popes on December 20. Here, visitors can immerse themselves in 20th-century holiday traditions; with period decorations and treats to sweeten the experience, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
