Carolina Ballet’s Nutcracker Magic at Raleigh Memorial Auditorium
The holiday classic that brings the magic back every single year.
Shannon
December 06, 2025
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Carolina Ballet’s The Nutcracker returns December 11–24, bringing all the charm, music, and wonder that make it a must-do December tradition. Expect Tchaikovsky’s iconic score, enchanting illusions from Drosselmeyer, and Clara’s timeless adventure brought to life. Live music accompanies every performance (the NC Symphony joins December 19–21!), and tickets are going fast. You can snag them here.
This isn’t sponsored — we just admire a ballet that can pull off real magic. (Just so you know: Sponsored content in our newsletter is always marked with “*”).
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18 Exciting Weekend Getaways Within 2 Hours of Raleigh, part of The Raleigh Bundle collection of expert guides, is packed with charming small towns, scenic escapes, foodie hotspots, and unexpected adventures perfect for a quick reset. Even longtime locals will be surprised by what they find inside.
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Raleigh Overtime:
🍴 FOODIE FIND: Ajja’s Butternut Squash Flan is a creamy, cozy, toasty dessert that delivers the perfect sweet finish to a fall night.
🐾 FOR ADOPTION: KONG | DOG | 3 MONTHS | MALE
Kong is a soft-furred, medium-sized pup who loves being held, melting into cuddles and gentle petting. Check him out here →
🛍️ GARAGE SALE: Head over to Free Spirit Farm School on December 13 at 9AM for locally made crafts, soaps, candles, and even live animals—including hens, roosters, and chicks—and much more. More details here →
📝 LOCAL CLASS: Exploring Meditation at Jubilation Spa on December 9 at 9AM.
Exploring Meditation is a 45-minute small-group experience designed to help participants discover the meditation style that works best for them. Sign up here →
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🌳 Golden Years Gatherings
Handpicked social, cultural, and community events especially for Raleigh’s older adults.
👋 Event of the day: Stretch and Refresh @ Downtown Cary Park | December 8 | 10AM
This hour-long Stretch and Refresh Class for Seniors offers chair-based exercises to improve mobility and flexibility in a fun, safe group setting at Downtown Cary Park. Get details here →
💲 Senior Discount of the Day: A – Z Thrift Shop | 25% Off for Seniors
Every first Thursday of the month, seniors (55 +) receive 25% off purchases at this Raleigh-area thrift shop — just show your ID at checkout.
Local Vocals:
🎸 This Week: Set It Off | Rock
Set It Off is an American rock band known for their dynamic blend of pop, punk, and orchestral elements, delivering high-energy songs marked by theatrical flair and emotional intensity. | The Ritz | December 10, 6PM | Get tickets here →
🎤 Plan Ahead: Marisela | Latin
Marisela is an American-born Mexican singer known for her romantic ballads and distinctive, sweet vocal style, earning her the title “La Dama de Hierro.” | Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts | May 22, 8:30PM | Get tickets here →
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Let’s Get Laughing:
🎤 This Week: Brandi Denise at Goodnights Comedy Club | December 12-14 | Brandi Denise is an American comedian and actress known for her bold, witty stand-up and her roles on shows like Power and Power Book II: Ghost. Get tickets here →
😂 Plan Ahead: David Spade at DPAC | March 27, 8PM | David Spade is an American comedian and actor known for his dry, sarcastic wit and memorable roles on Saturday Night Live and in numerous comedy films. Get tickets here →
Find Friends in Raleigh:
Curated social events without an emphasis on alcohol or romance:
👋 Game Night for a Cause @ Keller Williams Legacy Apex | December 10 | 6:30PM
The RDU Black MBA Chapter Game Night offers a lively evening of friendly competition, laughter, and community spirit, with admission supported by donations of canned food, dry goods, or essential items. Get details here →
🤝 Design Your Own Ugly Christmas Sweater Party @ Atomic Clock Brewing Company | December 10 | 6:30PM
Participants can design a one-of-a-kind holiday Christmas sweater using an array of fun, festive decorations—simply bring a cotton sweater or sweatshirt to begin. Get details here →
Sola Coffee Cafe is this cozy spot in North Raleigh that's been around since 2012. It's family-owned, and you can really feel that personal touch when you walk in. They serve up locally roasted Counter Culture Coffee, and their cardamom latte is something special. Don't even get me started on their mini doughnuts—they're a must-try. It's just one of those places where you can relax, chat with friends, and feel at home.
—Carolina, a longtime reader
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