First Night Raleigh

Where: Throughout Downtown Raleigh, centered around Fayetteville Street

When: December 31, 2:00 pm – January 1, 12:00 am

Check out the DIY daytime festival from 2:00 pm – 6:00 pm at the NC Museums of History and Science. For those that don’t want to stay out until midnight there will be an Early Countdown at 7:00 pm. Live music, including Holy Ghost Tent Revival, a Ferris Wheel, vendors, tons of fun and more will keep rolling until the big acorn drop at midnight. Of course bars still open until 2:00 am.

 

NC Chinese Lantern Festival

Where: Koka Booth Amphitheatre

When: 6:00 pm – 10:00 pm, Tuesdays-Sundays (Closed Mondays except New Year’s Day), Now until January 14

The Chinese Lantern is in Cary for its third year. Regency Park is lit up by spectacular silk lanterns, handmade in China and shipped over specifically for this event. Tickets are $15 for those 18 and up, $10 for ages 3-17 and free for those 2 and under.

 

United Way of the Greater Triangle Area’s MLK Day of Service

Where: Various Locations Throughout the Triangle

When: Monday, January 18, All Day

Hosting over 2,800 volunteers at 35 projects throughout the Triangle Area, the day of service aims to be “A Day On, Not a Day Off.” United Way of the Greater Triangle facilitates these incredible projects in part to “transform Dr. King’s life and teachings into community service that helps empower and strengthen our towns and cities.” Anyone can volunteer or donate, with projects all over the area it’s likely there is something near you.

 

North Carolina Museum of History

Where: NC Museum of History

When: All Month

The North Carolina Museum of History is currently celebrating its 115 year in existence. Free to the public, the museum focuses on the history of the state as well as the different roles it has played in larger events. Currently, one of the featured exhibits is North Carolina and World War 1, which focuses on the role that North Carolinians played in the Great War. Don’t miss the NC Sports Hall of Fame on the 3rd floor as well as other exciting exhibits.

 

Marbles Kids Museum: Princess Tea

Where: Marbles Kids Museum

When: Saturday, January 20 & Sunday, January 21

Located across from Moore Square, Marbles is an interactive kids museum aimed at mixing fun and learning. It’s exciting exhibits are great for kids and adults alike. This month children are invited to dress as princesses and come enjoy “Fairy dust and sparkling crowns, enchanted wands and princess gowns.” Also catch a movie at the IMAX theater while you’re there!

 

Morehead Planetarium: Yoga Under the Stars

Where: Morehead Planetarium

When: Every Wednesday in January, 5:30 pm – 6:30 pm

The Triangle’s only planetarium, Morehead, is an excellent venue to catch all sorts of space related shows. Occasionally they even put on concerts, making for a truly magical experience. This month the planetarium is partnering with Carrboro Yoga Company to bring an immersive and special experience. Every Wednesday in January you’ll have the opportunity to do yoga while gazing at the shifting constellations above.

 

 

Start of ACC Basketball

Where: Dean E Smith Center, Chapel Hill; PNC Arena, Raleigh; Cameron Indoor Stadium, Durham

When: All Month Long

The Atlantic Coast Conference is a perennial basketball war zone. Any team can win on any given night and there are always several in the top 25. NC State plays both UNC and Duke in January. Both games will be intense, exciting and a ton of fun. There are plenty of other great match ups between our local teams and those from other parts of the country if you can’t make it to the rivalry games. Buy tickets quickly as games are likely to sell out. Follow the following links for tickets: UNC, NC State, Duke

 

Mystic Farm & Distillery Tour 

Where: Mystic Farm & Distillery

When: Every Saturday 2:00 pm and 4:00 pm

Come check out the Triangle’s only farm distillery. Mystic Farm & Distillery is a short drive from Downtown Durham and Research Triangle Park. Learn everything there is to know about brewing bourbon on a tour of the facilities. Tours start at 2 pm and 4 pm on Saturday but make sure to book in advance as they often sell out.

 

Mini Golf @ the Library

Where: Orange County Public Library

When: Friday, January 26, 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm

Ever played mini golf in a library? Me neither, but now’s your chance. Come out to the Orange County public library in Hillsborough on January 26. The course will be library themed of course and promises to be a good time for all ages.