Out and about on WRAL.com

By Kathy Hanrahan, WRAL Lifestyle Editor

Raleigh, North Carolina – Holiday weekend means there are fewer events, but you can still have fun in the Triangle!

WRAL 2021 Holiday Gift Guide – Our experts in parenting, frugal living, and the best of what the Triangle has to offer have scoured their sources and researched stores (and the internet) for the best suggestions for your holiday gifts. No matter the age or interest, you will find gift ideas here.

WRAL Nights of Lights (Dorothea Dix Park, 1030 Richardson Dr., Raleigh) – Towering oaks, rolling hills and open fields will be the magical backdrop to this dazzling light show throughout the park. Illuminated trees, festive light shows, and local art installations will delight visitors of all ages along the 1.3-mile course. Nights of Lights ends December 24, so you have some time to check it out!

Find the best play of light in the houses of the Triangle – The holidays are here, and WRAL has your guide to the best home lighting displays.

The Hip Hop Nutcracker (with special guest MC Kurtis Blow) (Durham Performing Arts Center, 123 Vivian St., Durham) – A unique and joyful holiday mix for the whole family, this contemporary dance performance is set to the timeless music of Tchaikovsky. To see on stage at the DPAC on Sunday at 2 p.m.

Downtown Raleigh Illuminated Art Walk (Downtown Raleigh, 300-400 block of Fayetteville St., Raleigh) – Downtown Raleigh is revealed with Illuminate, an artistic walk based on light. This five-week activation takes place in the Fayetteville Street and Glenwood South neighborhoods of downtown Raleigh. Illuminate will transform squares and underused spaces with a large-scale interactive installation, light-based sculptures and art projections. The facilities will shine every night until January 7.

Vacation in the Park (North Carolina Museum of Life and Science, 433 W. Murray Ave., Durham) – This weekend, enjoy a memorable stroll through the outdoor and indoor spaces of the Museum of Life + Science. Follow the glittering trails and gleaming trees through the garden, soak up the tropical temperatures inside the Butterfly Greenhouse, or stop by the Sprout Cafe for an overnight snack. Take an illuminating train ride on the Ellerbe Creek Railroad, passing colorful light shows along the way!

Carolina Ballet presents The Nutcracker (Duke Energy Center for the Performing Arts – Raleigh Memorial Auditorium, 2 E. South St., Raleigh) – With illusions created by magician Rick Thomas, made possible by WRAL-TV, the Carolina Ballet is one of the only Nutcracker productions with magic performed live on stage. See him on stage from December 17 through Christmas Eve at the Raleigh Memorial Auditorium. Proof of COVID-19 vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test is required for all artists, staff, volunteers and members of the public. The mask is also compulsory for the guests.

North Carolina Chinese Lantern Festival (Koka Booth Amphitheater, 8003 Regency Parkway, Cary) – Enjoy this annual celebration at Booth Amphitheater in Cary from November 19 to January 9. There will be new postings and more ticket options.

The Ice Rink (Red Hat Amphitheater, 500 S. McDowell St., Raleigh) – Ice skating in downtown Raleigh at the Red Hat Amphitheater. Admission $ 11 and includes skate rental. The event takes place until New Years Day.

The Polar Express 3D (Marbles IMAX, 201 East Hargett Street, Raleigh) – Tom Hanks stars in an inspiring adventure based on Chris Van Allsburg’s beloved children’s book. Experience this holiday classic in IMAX 3D at the Marbles Kids Museum with screenings from November 26 to December 24.