Arts Calendar

Statewide Holiday Pops: November 26-December 15th

Gather your loved ones and dive into the spirit of the season with the North Carolina Symphony as they bring their ever-popular Holiday Pops to cities across the state! Under the baton of David Glover, this festive program is packed with holiday hits that range from classics like Sleigh Ride and White Christmas to the stirring Carol of the Bells and movie magic from Frozen. It’s an experience that captures the warmth and joy of the holidays, perfect for all ages.

Catch this merry musical tour in a town near you and kick off your holiday celebrations in style! Find more information and tickets HERE.

Messiah and More: December 5-7th

Get ready to ring in the holiday spirit with a night of choral splendor and orchestral brilliance! Carlos Miguel Prieto leads the North Carolina Symphony and the North Carolina Master Chorale in a festive celebration, blending the uplifting power of Bach’s Christmas Oratorio with the timeless glory of Handel’s Messiah. From the contemplative beauty of Bach to the triumph of the Hallelujah Chorus, this performance promises a radiant start to the season that will stir your soul and spark holiday cheer. Don’t miss this magnificent musical gathering—find details and tickets HERE!

Burning Coal Theater Company - The Rainmaker: December 5-22nd

“The Rainmaker” by Richard Nash brings both humor and heart to a drought-stricken town and a family torn between practicality and hope. As the Curry family watches their cattle and dreams dry up, the arrival of a mysterious stranger—who claims he can summon rain—stirs up questions of trust, faith, and love. Set against the sweltering heat of a summer day, this heartfelt play explores the courage it takes to believe in the impossible.

Catch this stirring story and take advantage of fantastic ticket options, including $5 student tickets and military discounts. More details on tickets and accessibility options are just a click away—start planning your visit HERE!

Classical Christmas with Carlos: December 6th

Ring in the holiday season with a grand celebration of timeless music! Carlos Miguel Prieto leads the North Carolina Symphony and the North Carolina Master Chorale through stirring selections from Bach’s Christmas Oratorio and Handel’s Messiah, including the triumphant “Hallelujah Chorus.” Adding to the enchantment, Sarah Coburn’s soaring soprano and Aaron Crouch’s radiant tenor will fill Meymandi Concert Hall with the sounds of joy and reverence, a perfect start to the festive season.

Arrive early to catch a special treat: local student and community musicians performing in the lobby as part of the Symphony’s Ovations program. Don’t miss this unforgettable evening of holiday spirit—learn more HERE!

Handel's Messiah: December 6-8th

A Durham holiday tradition returns as the Duke Chapel Choir presents Handel’s Messiah, filling the majestic Duke University Chapel with a timeless celebration of faith and music. Since 1933, this annual performance has enchanted audiences with its journey from “The people that walked in darkness” to the triumphant “Hallelujah” chorus. Led by Zebulon M. Highben, the Choir is joined by Mallarmé Music and gifted soloists, including Kathryn Mueller (soprano) and Jonathan Woody (bass), for a performance on period instruments that brings Handel’s Baroque masterpiece to life with authentic detail. Find more information HERE!

Cary Ballet Company - The Nutcracker: December 7th

Join the Cary Ballet Company for the magical tale of Clara as she journeys from her home to the Land of Sweets with her Nutcracker Prince. There will be several performances, including a Sensory Friendly version of the ballet. Find more information and tickets HERE.

Amahl and the Night Visitors: December 7th

This holiday season, The Chamber Orchestra of the Triangle brings Menotti’s beloved Amahl and the Night Visitors to life at the Carolina Theatre. Join little Amahl and his mother as they open their humble home to three travelers on a mysterious journey guided by a bright star. With themes of kindness, wonder, and sacrifice, this enchanting story will capture hearts of all ages—just be sure to bring tissues for those joyful tears!

Gather the family for a performance filled with warmth and magic. Find showtimes and ticket details HERE!

Joy of the Season: December 10th

Kick off your holiday season with pure choral magic! On December 10th at Meymandi Concert Hall, the North Carolina Master Chorale brings together its 170-voice Symphonic Choir, Chamber Choir, and Youth Choir for Joy of the Season, a cherished Raleigh tradition. Backed by a rich ensemble of brass, percussion, piano, and organ, these talented voices will fill the hall with both classic carols and fresh, contemporary favorites. It’s a holiday celebration as vibrant and joyful as it is heartwarming. You’ve seen them on UNC-TV; now feel the power of this music in person. Get all the details and tickets HERE!

The Nutcracker Ballet: December 12-24th

This holiday season, step into a world of magic and nostalgia with Carolina Ballet’s dazzling production of The Nutcracker. A perennial favorite and the company’s most beloved performance, this enchanting ballet combines the timeless charm of the classic tale with fresh choreography by Zalman Raffael, brought to life by vibrant sets and gorgeous costumes. Learn more and get your tickets HERE!

UpClose Chamber Music: December 14th

Mark your calendars for an intimate evening of exceptional music with The Chamber Orchestra of the Triangle’s UpClose Chamber Music concert, featuring the talented Durham Fellows.  This performance shines a spotlight on rising stars in classical music, as part of COT’s inspiring initiative to support young professional musicians. Through artistic and financial mentorship, the Durham Fellows program helps these musicians make their mark in the professional world. Don’t miss this chance to witness the future of classical music up close! Tickets can be found HERE.

A Candlelight Christmas with the North Carolina Symphony: December 20-22nd

Celebrate the magic of the holidays with the North Carolina Symphony Holiday Brass, led by Sophie Sze-Ki Mok, and the angelic voices of the North Carolina Master Chorale Youth Choir. Held in the warm glow of candlelight at Meymandi Concert Hall, this festive performance features holiday favorites like Angels We Have Heard on High, O Come, All Ye Faithful, and selections from The Nutcracker. And, of course, a merry sing-along of We Wish You a Merry Christmas is sure to keep spirits bright!

Arrive early to meet Santa and enjoy carols in the lobby with The Oakwood Waits—it’s the perfect way to kick off a season of cheer. Find all the details and tickets HERE!

Sensory-Friendly The Nutcracker Suite: December 20-22nd

Introduce the little ones to the wonder of dance with the Sensory-Friendly Nutcracker Suite! This special, narrated performance offers a behind-the-scenes peek as a bare stage transforms into a dazzling scene filled with lights, props, music, and dancers. Perfect for kids of all ages, this one-hour show combines enchantment with inclusivity, featuring dimmed house lights, softer music, and a quiet room in the lobby for those who need a break. Details HERE!

Tchaikovsky Discovers America

Step into the life and music of Tchaikovsky with the North Carolina Symphony and Sophie Sze-Ki Mok, who bring the iconic composer’s journey to America to life in Tchaikovsky Discovers America. This family-friendly concert weaves timeless classics like the 1812 Overture, The Nutcracker, and Sleeping Beauty into a theatrical experience by Classical Kids Live!. With two showtimes on January 4, this is the perfect opportunity to spark a love of music for audiences of all ages. Don’t miss the magic at Meymandi Concert Hall—secure your spot HERE!