Tree Lighting Celebrations in the Triangle in 2026

All throughout the Triangle, in Raleigh, Durham, and surrounding towns, tree lighting events are marking the beginning of the holiday season.

Scroll down for a big day-by-day list of tree lighting events in the Triangle.

We’ve just started updating this list for 2026, so keep checking back.

You can expect to at least get a glimpse of Santa at most of these events, and, often, you can take your own (free) pictures with Santa.

Tree Lighting Celebrations in the Triangle