Welcome winter! As the leaves fall, paving the way for cold temperatures and perhaps a flurry of snow, it's time to celebrate! Sure, it might be freezing outside but that doesn't mean you have to stay indoors and hibernate. Raleigh is so much more than warm summer days and beautiful autumn foliage. Our city offers an abundance of heartwarming winter activities for everyone, where you can bundle up, sip hot chocolate, and embrace the winter wonderland vibes.
Kickstarting the season, we have the renowned Winterfest in City Plaza—a fun, festive celebration that transforms the heart of downtown into a vibrant winter playground. And nothing screams winter more than lacing up a pair of ice skates. Winterfest's outdoor ice rink brings you the opportunity to glide (or tumble) gracefully across the ice under a blanket of twinkling fairy lights. Whether you're a seasoned skater or a scaredy cat, it doesn't matter. After all, the best part of falling is getting back up, right?
If you'd rather watch than be watched, how about catching a Carolina Hurricanes game? Nothing unites us locals like rooting for our team, and these games are not just about hockey. With enthusiastic crowds, rhythms of fan chants, gripping twists and turns of the game; trust me, the PNC Arena transforms into a whole different planet on game nights. It's an adrenaline-fueled experience, and the community spirit is simply infectious. Even non-hockey lovers find themselves swept up in the unprecedented thrill of the games and the collective joy of victory.
They say, "When in Rome, do as the Romans do," but here in Raleigh, we say, "When winter hits, ride down a hill on a sled!" We are fortunate to have a plethora of hills that become perfect sledding spots at the first sight of flakes. Dix Park is the local's favorite with its gentle slope and broad expanse. Bring your sled, grab your mittens, put on your warmest coat, and come enjoy the simple pleasures of racing down a hill with a joyous yell. Magic of winter doesn’t get purer than this!
Now let's shift gears and invest some of this winter energy into engaging and educative pursuits. The North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences and Museum of History are warm and inviting places to spend an afternoon. Explore everything from dinosaur fossils to native textiles, engine technology to the stories of our brave soldiers. Such retreats allow us to escape the cold, educate us, and also remind us of our rich history and the immensity of our shared world.
And of course, winter is incomplete without the enchanted journey through Pullen Park’s Holiday Express. A magical train ride around the twinkling park is both a local tradition and a delightful experience that fills us with the spirit of the holidays. Although it’s popular among kids, don’t be surprised to see a few adults (like me) lined up too, eagerly waiting for their turn with childlike enthusiasm.
When the sun sets and temperature dips, it’s time for comfort food. Raleigh's culinary delights bloom in winter. Craving some delectable comfort food? Visit Beasley's Chicken+Honey. Their classic, southern fried chicken warms you up from the inside, melts in your mouth, and instantly cheers you up. Or head over to Poole's Diner for their dreamy Mac & Cheese. Creamy, cheesy pasta served in a warm, cozy setting? Count me in anytime!
For those with a sweet tooth, Videri Chocolate Factory is a must-visit. Their hot chocolates made from scratch can bring sunshine to the dreariest of winter days. Or if you prefer something cold, Howling Cow Ice Cream made right at the NC State's campus is perfect for you. Because, let's be honest, there's no wrong time for ice cream!
Winter in Raleigh is also a musical delight. There is something serene about listening to live music as snowflakes fall softly outside. From our Symphony's holiday celebrations to local bands who bring down the house at our downtown bars, the music reverberates with the raw, unfiltered spirit of Raleigh. And if you are into theater, the performances at our Duke Energy Center are truly mesmerizing. The Nutcracker Ballet is one of my top recommendations. The grace, the intricate set designs, the moving music; it's pure harmony that lingers within you long after you've exited the theater.
Before we call it a wrap, let's not forget about the intimate joy of wandering our beautifully decorated neighborhoods. Don your warmest coats and a pair of comfortable shoes, and embark on a self-paced walking tour. Historic Oakwood and the Boylan Heights stand out with their homes decked up beautifully. These walks make you appreciate the small joys of our lives and the beauty of our city even more.
Raleigh, our dear city, has a unique heartbeat. Expansive yet intimate, bustling yet calming. Whether you are a native, a traveller, or somebody in between, I hope this winter you fall a little more in love with our city and the wonders it offers. So, here's to icy nights, warm hearts, snowball fights, and steaming mugs of cocoa. Happy wintering, everyone!
