IT’S TIIIIIIMMMMEEE! Mariah has been defrosted, and the season of joy and celebration is upon us. The Raleigh area is coming to life with sparkling lights, festive music, and community spirit. No matter if you like the energy of the city or just a cozy small-town celebration, you’ll find holiday magic waiting around every corner near our Triangle Communities.
In the City: Holiday Magic in Raleigh
Let’s start right in
the heart of Raleigh, a quick drive away from all of our communities, where the
city is glowing with festive energy. Whether you’re planning a weekend outing
or a quick evening adventure, these holiday favorites are perfect for getting
into the spirit of the season.
● Holiday Express at Pullen Park
As the first public
park of North Carolina, Pullen Park is already full of charm, but when the
holidays arrive, a winter wonderland comes to life. Hop on the Holiday Express
train ride, visit Santa’s Mobile Toy Shop, grab a snack at the S’mores Station,
and more. It’s the perfect spot for all ages to soak in that cozy, nostalgic
Christmas feeling.
● Jordan Lake Christmas Tree Park
Everyone knows the
holiday spirit really sets in once your tree is up, and Jordan Lake has been
helping make that tradition special since 1984. Look through rows of trees and
hand-pick the perfect one for your home, visit their Christmas shop, or take a
hayride around the farm. It’s the kind of spot that turns into a yearly
tradition without any hassle.
Just
Beyond the City: Local Holiday Traditions
Now that we’ve
explored some holiday magic in the heart of Raleigh, let’s take a closer look
at the festivities happening just beyond the city. From tree lightings to cozy
gatherings, the areas surrounding Raleigh bring their own unique traditions and
small-town sparkle to the season.
● Lillington Christmas Parade
Every December, Main Street comes alive with the beauty of the season
during the Lillington Christmas Parade. Locals line the streets to watch the
community come together and spread cheer through the town. Just 8 minutes from
The Farm at Neill’s Creek, it’s an easy trip to enjoy the festivities and feel
the heart of Lillington come together. It’s a celebration of hometown pride
that makes Lillington feel like a family.
● Christmas on the Cape Fear
Just because it’s
December doesn’t mean you must stay indoors. Christmas on the Cape Fear brings
together Lillington’s beautiful riverfront and true sense of holiday
togetherness. Enjoy the tree lighting along the Cape Fear River, give Santa
your last-minute letters, and soak in the glow of the season surrounded by
nature.
● Annual Christmas Village & Tree Lighting
Now in its 35th year,
the Annual Christmas Village & Tree Lighting is one of Clayton’s most
beloved traditions. Enjoy an evening filled with fun, including a train ride
through the village, cookie decorating, performances by local schools and dance
groups, and of course, you can’t forget the highlight of the night, the
lighting of the beautiful Christmas tree in the center of Downtown. If you’re
new to the area, this marks the kickoff of the Clayton holiday season. It’s the
perfect way to support local talent and meet your neighbors.
● Clayton Christmas Parade
A
true celebration of kids and Christmas, the annual Clayton Christmas Parade
fills Main Street with floats, marching bands, and a large, cheerful crowd.
Just 5 minutes from Highgate, it’s an easy trip to join in on the community
spirit that makes Clayton so special.
● Christmas on the Square
The joy of the season shines bright in Angier. This beloved event takes
place in Downtown Angier, just 6 minutes from Neill’s Pointe. Visit with Santa
and Mrs. Claus, take part in fun, festive crafts, and experience a live
nativity scene in Jack Marley Park. Join friends, neighbors, and familiar
families in filling the streets with holiday cheer. It’s a great way to slow
down, savor the moment, and make memories that capture the true spirit of the
holidays.
● Meadow Lights
A
true local treasure, Meadow Lights is one area’s most beautiful light displays,
spanning over 30 acres and featuring over 8,000 lights. While you’re there,
visit the old-fashioned candy store, hop aboard the train, and enjoy some
classic concessions. One of the most picture-perfect ways to experience the
holidays.
Celebrate
the Holidays, Where You Call Home
As
you can see whether you’re in the city or the surrounding towns, festive fun is
never far away. At Chesapeake Homes, we strive to build communities where you
can truly feel at home, no matter where you’re located, this season and all
year long. Explore our homes to see how they can make the
holidays even more special. Make memories, start new traditions, and celebrate
the joy of the season no matter where you are.
