Illustration of a Christmas market sweets stall with hanging heart cookies and a baker offering a sample (Christmas by Candlelight at Duke Homestead)
Christmas Lights

Christmas by Candlelight at Duke Homestead

Visitors follow a candlelit walk through the historic area to experience an 1870s North Carolina Christmas. Costumed interpreters bring the Duke family home to life as it appeared when the family lived there. Guests can also enjoy live Christmas music, singing, dancing, and holiday cookies.

Dec 4 – Dec 11, 2026 All ages

Website / Tickets

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Plan Your Visit

Hours

5:30pm-9pm.

Food & Drink

Holiday cookies are available.

Location

See it and nearby events on the map
Duke Homestead State Historic Site · 2828 Duke Homestead Rd, Durham, NC Get Directions

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 ⚪ (4/5)

Best For

Families and history-minded holiday visitors

Vibe

Historic and festive

Energy Level

Low

Photo Friendly

Moderate

Weather Sensitivity

Moderate

Tips & Advice

  • Choose one of the two Friday evenings, December 4 or 11; the event is scheduled from 5:30 to 9 p.m.
  • Layer warmly for the candlelit walk through the historic area, since visitors will spend part of the evening outdoors.
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes so the candlelit route through the historic area is easier to enjoy.
  • Keep phones and cameras ready for costumed interpreters and the historic home, but expect candlelight to make photos dim.

Links & Contact

Run by Duke Homestead Education and History Corporation

Website / Tickets

Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their website.

Frequently Asked Questions

What will we see on the candlelit walk?

You follow a candlelit path through the historic area. Costumed interpreters show the Duke family home as it might have been at Christmas in 1870, when the Dukes lived there.

Is there entertainment?

Yes. There is live Christmas music, singing and dancing along the way.

Are there any treats?

Yes, holiday cookies are part of the evening.

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