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Hello friends!

Hey glorious carb goblins,

It’s December 11th and the law now says: bagel for breakfast, lunch, and emotional support.

Toast it dark, schmear it thick, scatter sesame seeds like confetti, and stare down anyone who dares judge you.

See you out there in beautiful Wake,
Diane

—Philippians 4:6
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.”

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I’m on a strict bagel diet — I’ve already lost three days this week. 🥯😂

Forget the crowded malls and Netflix marathons. This December, the real holiday magic is glowing just outside Wilmington at Historic Poplar Grove Plantation, where Merry and Bright – A Holiday of Lights turns 200-year-old pecan groves into a Southern winter wonderland every Thursday through Sunday evening.

Picture this: You step through the gates and a million colorful lights wink on like the sky decided to throw confetti. Winding paths carry you past larger-than-life scenes (think glowing nutcrackers guarding the manor house, a life-size nativity under the stars, and a cheeky Grinch trying to steal Christmas from a vintage truck). Kids sprint ahead while parents sneak sips of spiked hot cider, because yes, adults get nice things too.

Santa holds court in the warmly lit parlor of the 1850 manor house (perfect for photos that don’t involve crying in a mall hell). Food trucks line up slinging lobster mac, loaded hot cocoa, and Lowcountry boil in a cup, while indoor vendors inside the old stables sell sea-glass ornaments, hand-poured candles, and pecan pralines that should honestly be illegal.

Live music drifts from the porch (carolers one minute, bluegrass the next), and the fire pits are free-for-all s’mores stations where sticky fingers and singed marshmallows are basically the dress code. Bring a blanket, snag a hayride if the line’s short, and just soak it in. The whole plantation feels like your cool aunt who decorates like a Hallmark movie but lets you drink bourbon by the bonfire.

Runs every Thursday–Sunday through the end of December (gates open around 5:30 p.m., last entry 8:30 p.m.). Tickets are a ridiculously reasonable $15 for adults, $5 for kids, and under 3 are free. Pro tip: Thursday nights are quieter and feel like you rented the place for your crew.

Merry and Bright isn’t just pretty lights; it’s that rare holiday event that actually feels merry, actually feels bright, and leaves everyone (even teenagers) grinning on the way to the car. Wilmington nailed it. Come get your glow on. 🎄✨

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1. Moore Square Winterfaire

Dec 11–14 – Downtown Raleigh
Free event with 60+ vendors, Santa visits, crafts, food trucks, and live entertainment. Perfect for an easy family outing.

2. THE RINK at Red Hat Amphitheater

Open throughout December
Outdoor ice skating under holiday lights with hot cocoa stations — a top kid-favorite and great for visiting relatives.

3. Lights on the Neuse

Through Dec 27 – Boyette Family Farms (Clayton)
A magical tractor-pulled hayride through a mile-long Christmas light display. Add cookie decorating and hot chocolate for the full experience.

4. Downtown Raleigh Holiday Lights & Tree Displays

Nightly through December
Take a simple, free evening stroll to enjoy the giant tree, dazzling lights, and festive downtown atmosphere.

5. Holiday Pop-Up Markets & Craft Fairs

Various locations through Dec 22–23
Kid-friendly shopping with local artisans, treats, and small activities — an easy way to grab last-minute gifts.

❤️ Top 5 Winter Picks for Couples (Dec 11–31)

1. THE RINK – Holiday Date Night

Festive lights, cozy blankets, music, and warm drinks — the most “classic” winter date option in the area.

2. Lights on the Neuse Hayride

A slow, cozy, picturesque hayride perfect for couples who want something sweet, simple, and holiday-themed.

3. Evening at Moore Square Winterfaire

Enjoy a twilight stroll through artisan vendors, hot drinks, and live acoustic music — ideal for a relaxed, romantic evening.

4. Holiday Lights Walk Downtown

Grab dinner downtown and end the night with photos under the glowing trees and lights — zero cost, big holiday charm.

5. Boutique Holiday Markets & Wine/Coffee Pop-Ups

Small, intimate craft markets often paired with wine tastings, warm drinks, or acoustic sets — great for a grown-up holiday outing.

On a quiet afternoon in Ramona, California, UPS driver Derrick West was making his usual neighborhood rounds when he spotted something strange — a golf cart flipped on its side, a man pinned and bleeding heavily. The victim, 75-year-old James Ostermann, was slipping in and out of consciousness. Derrick dropped everything and ran.

Realizing James was losing blood fast, Derrick pulled off his own belt and fashioned a tourniquet, tightening it with trembling hands while calling for help. Residents gathered, some praying, some trying to comfort James. When paramedics arrived, they confirmed what everyone suspected: Derrick’s quick action saved the man’s life. James’s family later said they would forever consider Derrick their hero — a man who walked up a driveway as a delivery driver and left having delivered something far more profound: the gift of a second chance.

"And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up."
— Galatians 6:9 (ESV)

How can you reduce stress to your pets?

Smithfield's Chicken 'N Bar-B-Q 10% discount for seniors! Check out our list below for more senior discounts!👈😍

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It’s A Tradition

Carolina Ballet’s The Nutcracker returns December 11–24, bringing back all the magic, music, and holiday sparkle you love. Enjoy Tchaikovsky’s iconic score, Drosselmeyer’s whimsical illusions, and live music at every show (with the NC Symphony Dec 19–21!). Tickets are moving quickly—catch the holiday classic while you can!

🎟️ Get Tickets → Link

Winterfaire

Raleigh’s getting a burst of European holiday magic at Moore Square’s Winterfaire—four festive days packed with 60+ vendors, live music, a food truck rodeo, s’mores, Santa, and more cheer than your cocoa can handle. It’s the perfect spot to browse, snack, and sparkle your way through downtown. And the best part? It’s totally free to enjoy.

✨ More info → Visit the site

We strive to make sure that all information is accurate. However, we always recommend check all details with the event organizer.

There are so many events happening in and around Wake County, NC that we have gone to a seperate page to list events. Please click this button to view all of the area’s great events!👇

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