Orange County Open Studio Tour

Where: Throughout Orange County (find a map and more info here)

When: Sat & Sun, Nov 6, 7; Sat & Sun, Nov 13, 14

“The Orange County Artists Guild is a non-profit organization of ‘artists supporting artists,’ seeking to increase the visibility and recognition of area artists and craftspeople.” The Open Studio Tour is the main project of the guild and functions to help raise interest and awareness for local artists. Over 90 artists will open their studios to the public (for free). The event is a great opportunity to see artists’ working spaces and interact with the artists themselves.

Carrboro Film Festival

Where: The ArtsCenter, Carrboro

When: Fri – Sun, Nov 19-21

“Carrboro Film Fest has an established history as a dynamic event that brings filmmakers and audiences together for a heartfelt celebration of independent cinema.” The non-competitive festival screens films produced in the South, focusing on Southern culture and its many intricacies and manifestations. The event aims to further facilitate a renaissance in Southern cinema

North Carolina Chinese Lantern Festival

Where: Koka Booth Ampitheatre, Cary

When: Fri, Nov 19 2021 – Jan 12, 2022

Koka Booth Ampitheatre and Regency Lake will be transformed into a sparkling and glowing display of lights and colors by Chinese group Tianyu Culture & Arts. There will be over 15,000 LED lights and 20 displays!

Raleigh Christmas Parade

Where: Starts on Hillsborough Street and ends on Fayetteville Street

When: Sat, Nov 20, Starts at 9:30 am (last about 2.5 hours)

The Raleigh Christmas Parade is the largest Christmas parade between Washington D.C. and Atlanta and was originally put on in November by local businesses in order to get locals thinking about the holiday season. It still focuses on buying local and is organized by the Greater Raleigh Merchants Association’s Shop Local Raleigh initiative.

American Indian Heritage Celebration

Where: Virtually

When: Sat, Nov 20, 11 am – 4 pm

A “Top 20 Event” according to the Southeast Tourism Society, this year’s event will be online and feature live presentations, panels and opportunities to engage with members of North Carolina’s 8 recognized American Indian tribes.

Durham Art Walk Holiday Market

Where: Throughout Downtown Durham

When: Sat, Nov 20, 10-5 pm; Sun, Nov 21, 1-5 pm

“The Durham Art Walk Holiday Market is a festive fine arts and crafts event that kicks off the holiday season in downtown Durham! The Holiday Market invites art lovers to experience a weekend featuring local artists, live music, world-class restaurants, and great shopping, at easily strollable venues in the Durham city center.”

Hillsborough Hometown Holidays

Where: Throughout Hillsborough

When: Nov 28 – Dec 21

The ongoing festival includes all sorts of events for the holiday season and a way to unwind and spend some quality time with loved ones in historic Hillsborough. Events include Small Business Saturday, Holiday Tree Lighting ceremony (Dec 5, 6 pm), Holiday Wreath Stroll Weekend, Lantern Walk Weekend, 2021 Holiday Parade (Dec 5, 4 pm) and much more!