Kick Off the New Year with These January 2026 Events in Raleigh
HAPPY NEW YEAR!!! 🥂 We’re so ready to kick off a brand new year! While you may be having a case of the “New Year’s Blues” now that the holiday fun is all wrapped up, we want to remind you that there’s still tons of great events to get involved in this month! January is the perfect time for a fresh start—and Raleigh’s events calendar is already delivering. From cozy winter festivals and cultural celebrations to concerts, community events, and foodie favorites, there’s no shortage of ways to kick off 2026 around Raleigh and the Triangle. Here’s your week-by-week guide to what’s happening this January, complete with dates, locations, cost, and why you’ll want to go!
Continued Holiday Events
Skate The Square At Fenton - Cary
When: Open Until Feb 8th
Where: Fenton Cary
Cost: $18.00 + Tax
Just because the holidays are over doesn’t mean the fun has to stop. Lace up your skates and hit the ice at Fenton’s outdoor rink, surrounded by twinkling lights, shops, and restaurants—perfect for a winter date night or family outing.
When: Open Until Jan 11th
Where: Koka Booth Amphitheater
Cost: Many options starting at $16.74
One of the Triangle’s most magical winter traditions, this festival features breathtaking, larger-than-life lantern displays inspired by Chinese art and culture. Stroll the illuminated paths, catch cultural performances, and don’t forget your camera.
The RINK at Red Hat Amphitheater
When: Open Until Jan 4th
Where: Red Hat Amphitheater
Cost:
Skater Admission: $15* includes skate rental
Non-Skater Admission: $6*
Skate into the new year with a few last laps around downtown Raleigh’s outdoor ice rink. With city views and festive vibes, this is a fun way to wrap up the holiday season.
Week of January 1st - January 7th
left image from Thriving in Raleigh | right image from Canva Gallery
When: Friday, January 2nd from 5pm - 10pm
Where: Various locations around Downtown Raleigh
Cost: FREE
Kick off the new year with one of Raleigh’s favorite monthly traditions. First Friday invites you to explore downtown galleries, museums, and local businesses as they stay open late with rotating art exhibits, live music, pop-ups, and special events.
Running Outside The Lines For Make A Wish Foundation
When: Saturday, January 3rd at 10am
Where: 7700 Perry Creek Road, Raleigh, NC 27616
Cost: Visit website for details
Start 2026 on a positive and purpose-driven note by participating in this annual run and walk benefiting Make-A-Wish. Open to runners and walkers of all experience levels, the event brings the community together for a great cause while encouraging movement, connection, and giving back.
NC Symphony: Music of Harry Potter
When: Saturday, January 3rd at 1pm
Where: Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts
Cost: Visit website for details
Calling all witches, wizards, and muggles… experience the iconic music of the Harry Potter films performed live by the North Carolina Symphony. This concert is a treat for both longtime fans and newcomers, making it a memorable night out in downtown Raleigh.
Week of January 8th - January 14th
left image from Thriving in Raleigh | right image from Thriving in Raleigh
Under The Silver Moon Lantern Parade
When: Saturday, January 10th at 6pm
Where: Downtown Cary Park
Cost: FREE
Watch Downtown Cary Park come alive with glowing lanterns during this enchanting parade. Under the Silver Moon also marks the official kickoff of GLOW, a seasonal light installation series that will continue through March, giving visitors even more reasons to return throughout the winter.
Sunday Self Care: Yoga at Dix Park
When: Sunday, January 11th at 3:30pm
Where: Dorothea Dix Park
Cost: FREE
Ease into the week with a calming outdoor yoga session at Dorothea Dix Park. Designed for all experience levels, this class focuses on gentle movement, breathwork, and mindfulness, making it a great way to reset, recharge, and prioritize self-care early in the new year.
Week of January 15th - January 21st
left image from carync.gov | right image from @ncvintagebazaar on IG
When: Friday, January 16th - Monday, January 19th
Where: Various locations in Cary, NC
Cost: FREE
Honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with a weekend-long celebration of events designed to inspire and bring the community together. From educational activities for kids to engaging programs for adults, this celebration offers meaningful ways for everyone to connect and reflect on his enduring legacy.
When: Saturday, January 17th & Sunday, January18th from 10am - 5pm
Where: Dorton Arena, NC State Fairgrounds
Cost: $12-$32 per person
Calling all vintage lovers! Explore a treasure trove of unique finds at this indoor market, featuring everything from retro fashion and accessories to quirky home decor and rare collectibles. Spend the day browsing, discovering hidden gems, and connecting with vendors who share a passion for all things vintage!
2025 Vietnamese New Year Festival
When: Sunday, January 18th 10am - 6:30pm
Where: Dorton Arena, NC State Fairgrounds
Cost: $20 per person (under 7 or over 75: FREE)
Celebrate Tết, the Vietnamese Lunar New Year, with a vibrant day of cultural performances, traditional food, music, and activities for all ages. This festival offers a welcoming atmosphere and a meaningful opportunity to learn about and celebrate Vietnamese culture and traditions.
When: Friday, January 16th - Monday, January 19th
Where: Various locations in The Triangle, NC
Cost: FREE
Celebrate Dr. King’s legacy with a week of impactful events, including interfaith services, thought-provoking educational programs, and hands-on community projects. These gatherings offer an opportunity to reflect on his vision of justice and equality while fostering connections within the community. Participate in activities that inspire and honor his continued impact on society.
Week of January 22nd - January 31st
left image from Thriving in Raleigh | right image from @trirestweek on IG
When: Friday, January 23rd - Sunday, January 25th
Where: Raleigh Convention Center
Cost: $10 per person
If home projects are on your 2026 vision board, this event is a must. The Downtown Raleigh Home Show brings together builders, designers, and home experts showcasing ideas and inspiration for renovations, décor, landscaping, and home technology, all under one roof.
When: Saturday, January 24th from 10am - 5pm
Where: Dorton Arena, NC State Fairgrounds
Cost: $11.32 per person
Ring in the Lunar New Year with a festive celebration featuring cultural performances, traditional dances, food vendors, and family-friendly activities. It’s a lively event that highlights the rich traditions and cultures celebrated throughout the Lunar New Year.
When: Saturday, January 24th - Sunday, January 25th
Where: NC Museum of Natural Sciences
Cost: FREE
Spend the weekend exploring the wonders of space at Astronomy Days. With hands-on activities, interactive exhibits, and expert-led talks, this event is perfect for curious kids, space lovers, and anyone looking to learn more about the universe.
When: Saturday, January 24th
Where: Lenovo Center
Cost: Prices vary (starting at $52.15 per person)
Yeehaw! Get ready for a high-energy night of rodeo action featuring bull riding, bronc riding, and fearless competitors. This one-night-only event brings excitement, adrenaline, and classic rodeo entertainment to The Lenovo Center.
When: Monday, January 26th - Sunday, February 1st
Where: Various restaurants across the triangle
Cost:
Lunch: $15 for 3 courses
Dinner: $25-$50 for 2-3 courses
(prices is for each person and does not include beverages, tax or gratuity)
One of the most anticipated weeks for food lovers, Triangle Restaurant Week is the perfect excuse to explore the local dining scene. Enjoy special multi-course menus at participating restaurants across Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill—ideal for date nights or trying somewhere new.
25th Annual African American Cultural Celebration
When: Saturday, January 31st from 10:30am - 4:30pm
Where: North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences
Cost: FREE
This annual event is a vibrant celebration of African American heritage, offering an enriching experience through captivating art exhibits, dynamic musical performances, and compelling storytelling sessions. It’s a perfect opportunity to learn, celebrate, and honor the contributions and legacy of this vibrant community.
Whether you’re easing into the new year or filling your calendar with plans, January in Raleigh offers plenty of ways to get out, connect, and celebrate. Bookmark this guide and stay tuned for more monthly guides coming soon!!
For even more events to explore in Raleigh this January, be sure to check out our full events calendar!
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