Christmas Day Buffet at The Willard Rooftop — A Holiday Feast in the Sky
A festive spread with all the sparkle of the season.
Shannon
December 15, 2025
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The Willard Rooftop’s Christmas Day Buffet (4–8 PM) pairs its smoked turkey and dill-and-havarti scalloped potatoes with one more star attraction: those sweeping Downtown Raleigh skyline views that make even the corn casserole feel glamorous. And yes, the cookie-decorating station looks even better when you’re doing it 12 stories up.
You can explore the full menu and grab reservations here—perfect for anyone who wants dinner and a backdrop worthy of a holiday card.
This isn’t sponsored (we’d absolutely tell you). We just respect a buffet that serves scenery on the side. (Just so you know: Sponsored content in our newsletter is always marked with “*”).
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Raleigh Overtime:
🍴 FOODIE FIND: Jolie’s Duck Breast à l’Orange is a classic pairing of tender duck with braised endive, mandarin, and a bright, citrusy sauce bigarade.
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📝 LOCAL CLASS: Holiday Watercolor Class at 850 Lower Gdn Ln on December 17 at 6:30PM.
This beginner-friendly watercolor class offers tips for all skill levels and guides participants in creating a 9×12 painting of holiday ornaments or florals to apply to future artwork. 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: Bingo, Books and Bagels for Adults @ East Regional Library in Knightdale | December 18 | 10:30AM
Seniors age 60+ are invited on the third Thursday of the month at 10:30 am to enjoy bagels, hear book talks, and play Bingo. Get details here →
💲 Senior Discount of the Day: Denny’s | 15% Senior Discount Menu
Denny’s offers 15% off for AARP members (up to $10) and a special senior menu for guests 55+.
Local Vocals:
🎸 This Week: Dylan Earl | Country
Dylan Earl is an American singer-songwriter known for his classic country sound and heartfelt, Arkansas-rooted storytelling. | The Pour House Music Hall & Record Shop | December 20, 8PM | Get tickets here →
🎤 Plan Ahead: Robert Plant | Rock
Robert Plant is an English singer and songwriter best known as the legendary lead vocalist of Led Zeppelin, celebrated for his powerful, iconic rock vocals. | Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts | March 31, 7:30PM | Get tickets here →
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Let’s Get Laughing:
🎤 This Week: Arnez J at Raleigh Improv | December 18-20 | Arnez J is an American stand-up comedian known for his high-energy, physical comedy and animated storytelling style. Get tickets here →
😂 Plan Ahead: Trae Crowder at Goodnights Comedy Club | April 16-19 | Trae Crowder is an American stand-up comedian known for his sharp Southern progressive humor and viral “Liberal Redneck” persona. Get tickets here →
Find Friends in Raleigh:
Curated social events without an emphasis on alcohol or romance:
👋 The Museum Mixer @ The Museum Barbershop | December 20 | 8PM
The Museum Mixer is a fun in-person night of art, music, and mingling, inviting guests to explore exhibits, enjoy creative vibes, and connect with fellow art lovers. Get details here →
🤝 Jingle & Mingle @ Studio 104 On Main | December 21 | 1PM
This festive event features a fun 45-minute Holiday Dance Cardio workout for all fitness levels, followed by a cozy social hour with champagne and a holiday craft. Get details here →
KAI Sushi & Sake Bar is one of Raleigh’s best hidden gems, with insanely fresh sushi, cozy vibes, and a sake list that keeps surprising me every time I go.
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