Honestly, the title speaks for itself. Whether you’re looking for festive drinks or all-you-can-eat holiday-themed dessert bars (you read that right), these local gems are meant to be enjoyed!
Tinsel Tavern at Sports & Social Cary
Tinsel Tavern at Sports & Social
Visit this one-of-a-kind holiday pop-up bar (21+) through Christmas Eve! With holiday-inspired cocktails, seasonal small bites, unique photo backdrops, and holiday-themed events (cooking decorating and movie nights, for example), it’s worth the reservation!
Holiday Shop at Gather Goods Co.
On Saturday, Dec. 16, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Gather Goods Co. — located off of Kildaire Farm Road in Cary — will host its first (free) holiday pop-up shop! Featuring an afternoon pour over coffee bar with Little Waves Coffee Roasters; Liège waffles, cookies and focaccia slices from While You’re Up; records for sale by new Downtown Cary business HunkyDory; and peppermint bark to buy and sample by The Apothecary’s Kitchen.
Boxyard RTP: Holiday Pop-Up Market
Find the perfect Christmas gift at Boxyard RTP’s Holiday Pop-Up Market, scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 16, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Shop a highly curated selection of accessories, clothing, home goods, custom gifts, and more — all by local artists and makers.
The Dessertery
The Dessertery
Did you know that there is a holiday-themed all-you-can-eat dessert cafe in Raleigh offering cupcakes, petit fours, hot cocoa, holiday cookies, truffles, and much, MUCH more?! The Dessertery — located at the Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts in downtown Raleigh — is open through Dec. 23, offering live entertainment and visits from Santa on select evenings. Tickets are $28 for those 7+ and $15 for ages 2-6 and can be purchased online or in person at the box office.
Sippin’ Santa at Wye Hill Kitchen & Brewing
Through Dec. 31, Wye Hill Kitchen & Brewing is hosting a retro beach-themed Christmas pop-up. With an extra-festive, tropical cocktail menu, views of Raleigh’s skyline, surfin’ Santa, and more kitschy decor than you could ever ask for, this is the perfect place to get into the Christmas spirit! There will also be a toy drive for kids, an ugly Christmas sweater party, Christmas-themed trivia, and craft nights. Reserve your table today!
Geek & Grub Market (Christmas Nightmare Edition)
Head to Downtown Raleigh for the return of their epic Holiday Market. This free event is a celebration of all things GEEK! Dress up and enjoy fun holiday-themed competitions and activities!
St. Nick’s
St. Nick’s
Head to St. Nick’s for a “Raleigh jolly experience” in a historic house across from Moore Square in the heart of downtown Raleigh. This over-the-top, interactive Christmas experience showcases local artists through decor, drinks, music, and events. St. Nick’s is open on select dates through Dec. 30, and tickets are $10. Get them early, as they sell out fast!
