What's Happening in Raleigh & Surrounding This November: Your Ultimate Event Guide
Now that spooky season has come to an end, it’s officially time to get into the holiday spirit! 🦃🎄The holidays are always busy in Raleigh and November is just the beginning of all the festivities. So if this is your favorite time of year, you’re in luck because there’s no shortage of events to get you into the festive mood. From cultural festivals to heartwarming holiday celebrations, there’s something fun for everyone this month. So grab your calendar and let’s dive into the top events happening throughout November!
FEATURED EVENTS:
FlowCorps Soft Opening
FlowCorps is bringing their signature high-intensity Pilates and infrared hot yoga to Durham at the iconic Brightleaf Square! The Durham studio will feature two dedicated spaces: one for FlowCorps’ Pilates classes - a full-body workout designed to push you to muscle fatigue and failure while prioritizing alignment, helping you build strength, move well for life, and feel your best. The second studio will offer infrared hot yoga - classes impeccably coordinated with music, thoughtfully sequenced, and perfectly paced to challenge your body, engage your mind, and help you find your flow state.
When: November 9th - November 23rd
Where: Brightleaf Square, 905 W Main St, Durham
Cost: FREE when you sign up for soft opening membership
Week of November 1st - November 7th
left image from JC Raulston Arboretum website | right image from @oaksmarathon on IG
Taste of China - Chinese Food and Culture Festival
When: Saturday, November 2nd from 11am - 5pm
Where: Downtown Cary Park
Cost: FREE
Description: Immerse yourself in Chinese culture through food, performances, and workshops. Taste of China showcases traditional and modern Chinese cuisine, cultural dance performances, and cooking demonstrations. Great for foodies and families alike!
When: Saturday, November 2nd - Saturday, November 16th
Where: JC Raulston Arboretum at North Carolina State University
Cost:
Advance Tickets: Members - $20; Non-Members - $30; College Students - $20; Child (12 and under) - $5
Gate Ticket (if available): All Adult - $40; Child (12 and under) - $5
Description: Experience a magical evening stroll through the beautifully lit gardens at JC Raulston Arboretum. With fire pits, live music, and tasty food trucks, it’s the perfect way to unwind and enjoy the beauty of the season.
When: Sunday, November 3rd
Where: Downtown Raleigh
Cost:
Marathon: $139
Half Marathon: $124
Old Reliable 10K: $65
Acorn 5K: $55
Description: Lace up those running shoes for the City of Oaks Marathon! Whether you’re a seasoned marathoner or just looking to have some fun, this event offers a marathon, half marathon, and a 5K. It’s a great way to explore Raleigh’s scenic neighborhoods while staying active.
Week of November 8th - November 14th
left image from FlowCorps | right image from Artspace Website
When: Saturday, November 9th - Saturday, November 23rd
Where: Brightleaf Square, 905 W Martin Street, Durham
Cost: FREE when you sign up for soft opening membership. Activate your soft opening membership here!
Description: Experience FlowCorps’ signature high-intensity Pilates and infrared hot yoga in their new Durham studio. With two dedicated spaces, you’ll build strength and find your flow at this exciting soft opening! Classes for the soft opening are available now!
EXCLUSIVE LIMITED-TIME OFFER: Becoming a founding member of FlowCorps Durham!! All founding members will receive retail discounts, guest passes and more! There are only 50 spots available for this offer so if you’re interested, act now!
When: Saturday, November 9th from 12pm - 4pm
Where: Varina Parking Lot - 801 Durham St Located in Varina's historic downtown
Cost: Stay tuned for ticket sales
Description: Calling all BBQ lovers! The BBQ Blues & Brews Festival is here to satisfy your cravings. Enjoy mouthwatering barbecue from local pitmasters, sip on craft brews, and jam to some live blues music. It’s a day of good food and great vibes!
When: Saturday, November 9th from 6pm - 11pm
Where: Artspace
Cost: Individual Tickets are $150 (Tickets include all beverages, culinary delights, art activations throughout the building, and access to the thrilling Live Art Bid. Plus, proceeds support Artspace’s programming and artists!)
Description: Join the party at Art Bash! This lively event features music, food, cocktails, and stunning art installations. Plus, it supports contemporary art and education in our community, so you can enjoy a great night out while making a difference.
Week of November 15th - November 21st
left image from @durham_arts on IG | right image from Koka Booth Website
The 2024 Durham Art Walk Holiday Market
When: Saturday, November 16 from 10am-5pm & Sunday, November 17 from 1pm -5pm
Where: 120 Morris Street, Durham, NC 27701
Cost: FREE
Description: Kick off your holiday shopping at the Durham Art Walk Holiday Market! Browse unique creations from local artists, from paintings to jewelry and everything in between. It’s the perfect spot to find one-of-a-kind gifts for everyone on your list.
North Carolina Chinese Lantern Festival
When: Saturday November 16th, 2024 - Sunday, January 12th, 2025
Where: Koka Booth Amphitheatre in Cary, NC
Cost: Any Night tickets are $31.00* each for ages 3 & older. Kids 2 & under are Free and do not need a ticket.
PRICES WILL INCREASE TO $36.00* PER TICKET ON NOVEMBER 16, 2024.
Description: Get ready to be dazzled at the NC Chinese Lantern Festival! With colorful lanterns and beautiful illuminated sculptures, this festival is a feast for the eyes. Enjoy cultural performances and delicious food—perfect for a fun family outing!
Week of November 22nd - November 30th
left image from Canva Gallery | right image from Thriving in Raleigh
29th Annual American Indian Heritage Celebration
When: Friday, November 22nd & Saturday, November 23rd from 11am - 4pm
Where: North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences
Cost: FREE
Description: Celebrate the rich heritage of North Carolina’s American Indian communities at this vibrant event. Enjoy cultural demonstrations, storytelling, music, dance, and hands-on activities that highlight the traditions and contributions of Native Americans.
Downtown Raleigh’s Annual Christmas Tree Lighting
When: Friday, November 22nd from 5:30pm - 8pm
Where: Lichtin Plaza, Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts
Cost: FREE
Description: Get into the holiday spirit with Raleigh's annual tree lighting ceremony! Enjoy live performances, family-friendly activities, and a special visit from Santa Claus to kick off the holiday season in style.
When: Saturday, November 23rd at 9:30am
Where: Downtown Raleigh
Cost: FREE
Description: Don’t miss the largest Christmas parade in the Southeast! With colorful floats, marching bands, and lively performances, this beloved tradition draws thousands of spectators and is sure to get you in the holiday spirit.
Christmas Tree Lighting at North Hills
When: Saturday, November 23rd from 4pm - 7pm
Where: North Hills Commons
Cost: FREE
Description: Join the festive cheer at North Hills with their Christmas tree lighting! This event features live music, hot cocoa, and a joyful atmosphere that’s perfect for the whole family.
The RINK presented at Red Hat Amphitheater
When: Saturday, November 23rd, 2024 - Monday, January 20th, 2025
Where: Red Hat Amphitheater
Cost:
Skater Admission: $15* includes skate rental
Non-Skater Admission: $6*
*taxes and fees may apply
Ages 2+ require a ticket to enter.
Description: Grab your skates and hit the ice at The Rink! Enjoy outdoor ice skating at Red Hat Amphitheater, making it a perfect spot to have some winter fun with friends and family.
When: Saturday, November 30th from 10am - 6pm AND Sunday, December 1st from 11am - 5pm
Where: NC State Fairgrounds, Raleigh NC
Cost: $5 for general admission (other prices vary)
Description: Kick off your holiday shopping at Triangle Pop Up’s Shop Small Mall! This two-day event features over 100 local artists and makers, plus live music, food trucks, workshops, and art installations. It’s the ultimate celebration of local talent and the perfect spot for unique holiday finds.
Grab your friends + family and dive into all the fun November has in store! Here’s to making memories in the best city—happy holidays! 🦃
For even more events to explore in Raleigh this September, be sure to check out our full events calendar!
Is there something we’ve missed? Please let us know here!
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