Even with the weather turning colder, winter is still a great time to get outside. The Raleigh, North Carolina area has several winter festivals you can attend to celebrate winter and all it has to offer. Here are some of the celebrations you can head to over the season.
Winterfest
On Saturday, December 3rd, Raleigh celebrates Winterfest. This annual celebration takes place right in downtown Raleigh at City Plaza. The festival starts at noon and features music on the main stage from a variety of different bands and artists. There is also a Gingerbread House contest where you can see the creations designed by local bakers and artists. Anyone can enter the contest, and there is even a category for kids this year. The festival also features rides for both adults and kids, and there is plenty of food with local food trucks parked throughout the area and many food vendors. The day comes to a close at 7:15 with the lighting of the Christmas tree.
First Night Raleigh
There is no better way to bring in the new year than at the First Night celebration in Raleigh. There is a little something for everyone throughout the night including an Andy Griffith Movie Marathon, and a miniature golf course created by local artists. For those who like animals, the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences will offer “Windows on the World” where you can get up close to some of their four-legged residents. First night tickets cost just $10, and they include access to all the performances and activities throughout the whole day starting at 2 p.m.
Nevermore Horror and Gothic Film Festival
Not for the faint of heart, this film festival is all about the horror. Filmmakers can submit their short films for viewing during the festival as long as they have an emphasis on science fiction or dark fantasy. This festival started back in 1999 and features short films from all over the world. It takes place at the Carolina Theater of Durham from February 24-26 in 2017. There are even awards for best films in several categories including Best North American Feature, Best International Short, and Best Animation Short.
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