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Holiday Tree Lighting Dec. 2, 5-9 p.m. The tree lighting is a celebration of the holidays and also the city of Durham. This year’s program includes a holiday market, music from the Choral Society of Durham, Fruits of Our Labor and Duck. Batalá Durham provides the drumroll to the tree lighting, current Mayor Elaine O’Neal lights the tree, and the jolly old man in a red suit will also make an appearance! “The downtown Durham tree lighting highlights Durham’s diversity and our welcoming community,” says Nicole J. Thompson, president and CEO of Downtown Durham Inc., which organizes the event. “It is always a fun, family-friendly and uniquely Durham experience.”
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Holidays in the Park Select nights in December Enjoy a memorable stroll with your loved ones through outdoor and indoor spaces at the Museum of Life and Science. Follow shimmering pathways and glowing trees from the gardens to the Dinosaur Trail and revel in the tropical temperatures inside the Magic Wings Butterfly House. Plus, take a train ride on the Ellerbe Creek Railway, passing colorful light displays along the way.
Wool E. Bull’s Winter Wonderland Select nights in December Durham Bulls Athletic Park transforms into a festive wonderland with largescale light installations, visits with Santa (or his favorite elf, Wool E. Claus) and an Arctic Chill Tavern beer garden. Enjoy sledding on six Frosty Fun Hill slopes, reserve an infield igloo and ride the Bulls Express train around the outfield. Indulge in seasonal snacks and drinks and then shop for unique gifts at Winterland Market. The ballpark’s stands dazzle with a spectacular 13,000-light, 4-mile display of colors and music. Christmas by Candlelight Dec. 1 and 8, 5:30-9 p.m. Experience an 1870s Christmas on this candlelight tour through the Duke Homestead State Historic Site. Learn the history behind the Duke family home as costumed interpreters bring it to life while engaging in storytelling and delighting in cookies, cider, singing, live music and more.
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Black Santa Dec. 3, 16-17 and 21-24 Bring your little ones to the Hayti Heritage Center to meet Black Santa and tell him what they would like for Christmas! The mission of Black Santa is to provide every child and family with a magical holiday experience.
Patchwork Holiday Market Dec. 3, noon-4 p.m. More than 70 local makers and vintage vendors come together at the Durham Armory to create a unique shopping experience with a diverse selection of high-quality and original goods. N.C. Jazz Ensemble Holiday Concert Dec. 3, 4 p.m. Immerse yourself in festive vibes and big band sounds as the sensational ensemble, led by dynamic vocalist Denise Barnes, takes center stage at the Hayti Heritage Center. This talented band of educators and artists will play to the theme of “Holiday Rhythms Marching On.” Dr. Seuss’ ‘How the Grinch Stole Christmas’ Dec. 5-10 The Durham Performing Arts Center hosts Broadway’s holiday hit set in Whoville, where the Grinch devises a plan to steal presents and decorations in an attempt to ruin the holiday for the Whos. However, through a heartwarming revelation, he learns the true spirit of Christmas and ultimately joins in the festivities. Featured songs include “You’re A Mean One, Mr. Grinch” and “Welcome Christmas.”