Illustration of a Christmas market stall piled with wooden toys, knitted stockings and baubles as a vendor wraps a gift (Wake Forest Cares Holiday Kickoff)
Christmas Markets

Wake Forest Cares Holiday Kickoff

2026 dates not announced yet. Details are from 2025.

Join the Wake Forest Cares Holiday Kickoff to officially welcome the holiday season! This free, family-friendly event in downtown Wake Forest features a variety of activities, opportunities to learn about community initiatives, and the launch of the annual Holiday Donation Drive. Enjoy local food vendors and explore downtown shops.

All ages FREE

Plan Your Visit

Last year

Neighborhood

Downtown Wake Forest

Food & Drink

Food and refreshments will be available for purchase at multiple downtown restaurants and from several food and dessert vendors.

Parking

Free parking is available along several side streets and parking lots throughout downtown Wake Forest. Utilize lots at the Wake Forest Center for Active Aging or Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary (SEBTS) campus lots, which are within a 15-minute walk of South White Street. Accessible parking is available in the Town Hall Parking Lot at 301 South Brooks Street.

Accessibility

Accessible parking is available in the Town Hall Parking Lot located at 301 South Brooks Street.

Location

Downtown Wake Forest · Wake Forest, NC Get Directions

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 (5/5)

Best For

Families, holiday enthusiasts, community supporters

Vibe

Festive, community-oriented, welcoming

Energy Level

Moderate

Photo Friendly

📷 📷 📷 📷 📷 (4/5)

Weather Sensitivity

Low

Tips & Advice

  • Arrive early to secure convenient parking, especially if you plan to utilize the designated accessible parking at Town Hall.
  • Check the event's parking map beforehand to familiarize yourself with the available public lots near South White Street.
  • Bring a non-perishable food item or a donation for one of the Wake Forest Cares initiatives to contribute to the Holiday Donation Drive.
  • Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be exploring downtown Wake Forest and visiting various vendors and activities.
  • Consider supporting local businesses by shopping small while enjoying the festive atmosphere of the holiday kickoff.

Special Events & Promotions

  • Launch of the annual Holiday Donation Drive
  • Opportunity to learn about Wake Forest Cares initiatives
  • Support local businesses by shopping small

Links & Contact

Run by Town of Wake Forest

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 contact page.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the Wake Forest Cares initiatives?

The Wake Forest Cares initiatives include: Helping Others by Providing Electricity (HOPE), Northern Community Food Security Team, Shop with a Cop, Wake Forest Center for Active Aging Scholarship Program, Wake Forest Firefighters Foundation, and Wake Forest Parks, Recreation & Cultural Resources Scholarship Program.

Where can I find more information about the Holiday Donation Drive?

You can find more information and donate directly through the provided 'Donate Now' link on the event page.

Are there specific activities for children?

Yes, the event is described as family-friendly with a 'slew of activities the entire family can enjoy,' suggesting activities suitable for children.

What time do the street closures begin and end?

East Owen Avenue and the portion of South White Street from Elm Avenue to Jones Avenue will close at 9 a.m. and are expected to reopen by 6 p.m. on Saturday, November 15.

Can I bring my pet?

The provided information does not specify a pet policy, so it is recommended to leave pets at home to avoid any issues.

Browse Christmas in Wake Forest

Always check the official website for the most current information.

We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.

Contributors & Updates

Last checked: