Illustration of snowman figures in red and green hats in a snowy town with gold fireworks, a clock tower and a red truck (WRAL Tower Lighting)
Other Christmas Activities

WRAL Tower Lighting

2026 dates not announced yet. Details are from 2025.

Join the 66th annual WRAL Tower Lighting, a cherished tradition illuminating the Raleigh, Durham, and Rocky Mount towers. This festive event features live music, holiday cheer, and special broadcasts, including a look at the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree lighting. The Raleigh tower shines brightly through New Year's Eve, offering extended seasonal magic.

All ages FREE

Plan Your Visit

Last listed

Featured Performers

  • Triton High School Showstoppers
  • Triton High School Gospel Choir
  • Durham Children’s Choir
  • Tyler Butler-Figueroa
  • Meredith Davis Johnson

Food & Drink

Food trucks and beverage vendors available at Rocky Mount Mills

Location

WRAL Studios · 2619 Western Blvd, Raleigh, NC Get Directions

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 (5/5)

Best For

Families, holiday enthusiasts

Vibe

Festive, cheerful, traditional

Energy Level

Low

Photo Friendly

📷 📷 📷 📷 📷 (4/5)

Weather Sensitivity

Outdoor events may be affected by weather

Tips & Advice

  • Arrive early at the American Tobacco Campus in Durham to receive one of the first 2,000 free light wands.
  • Check the WRAL website for specific broadcast times of the holiday special to catch all the performances.
  • Consider visiting the WRAL-TV tower in Raleigh after dark for a festive view that remains lit through New Year's Eve.
  • Explore the Christmas Market and enjoy carriage rides and Santa visits at the Rocky Mount Mills location.
  • Dress warmly for the outdoor events in Raleigh, Durham, and Rocky Mount, as the article mentions a 'festive, chilly night'.

Special Events & Promotions

  • First 2,000 guests at American Tobacco Campus received free light wands.
  • WRAL-TV tower in Raleigh remains lit through New Year's Eve.

Links & Contact

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

Where are the WRAL towers lit?

The WRAL towers are lit in Raleigh at the WRAL Studios, at the American Tobacco Campus in Durham, and at Rocky Mount Mills.

When does the WRAL Tower Lighting event take place?

The main lighting event occurred on Wednesday, December 4, 2024, but the WRAL-TV tower in Raleigh remains lit through New Year's Eve.

What kind of entertainment can be expected?

Expect musical performances from school groups, featured artists like Tyler Butler-Figueroa, and holiday-themed broadcasts.

Are there activities for children?

Yes, children's crafts and activities are available, particularly at the Rocky Mount Mills location, and free light wands were given to the first 2,000 guests in Durham.

Is there a cost to attend?

Admission to the WRAL Tower Lighting events is free.

Browse Christmas in Raleigh

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

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