8 Attractions That Will Have You Spending Christmas in Durham Each Year
During the Holidays, we transform Arrowhead Inn into a stunning Christmas wonderland, while Durham lights up and celebrates the festivities! Just imagine sipping cider by the fire or shopping down a picturesque, twinkling street. There is so much fun to be had and new traditions to be made. Here’s why you should spend Christmas in Durham.
For more information on how to make the most of your Holidays in Durham, be sure to access our complimentary Vacation Guide! It’s full of the best restaurants, things to do, and more in the Triangle.
Why You Should Spend Christmas in Durham
How Arrowhead Inn Celebrates Christmas
Arguably the most wonderful time of the year, we have all the Holiday trimmings at Arrowhead Inn to get you in the Holiday spirit. Two live decorated Christmas trees, festive greenery, and poinsettias await your arrival! Enjoy hot apple cider or hot chocolate with homemade Holiday cookies and Chef Phil’s exceptional biscotti – a sampling for afternoon refreshments. Classical Holiday music drifts through the air and whispers peaceful nostalgia!
Christmas Events and Activities in Durham
1. Christmas in the Piedmont and Candlelight Tour
Visit during the day and witness how this Holiday was celebrated in the Piedmont Carolinas during the American Civil War. Come back later in the evening for the newest edition to this Christmas Holiday event with the Candlelight Tour Program. This event will take visitors around the historic site where they will watch and listen as both soldiers and civilians celebrate the Holiday.
2. Christmas by Candlelight
Experience a historical North Carolina Holiday season with the Duke Homestead! For Christmas by Candlelight, costumed interpreters lead you on a candlelit tour through the historic area with period decorations and Victorian traditions.
3. Christmas Open House at Stagville
This free open house explores the site and teaches about Holiday traditions from all different families at Stagville. You will visit the house of the Bennehan-Cameron slaveholders, the 1850 house of an enslaved family, and the house of a freed family after Emancipation.
4. Handel’s Messiah
Those with an ear for Holiday classical music will not want to miss the special Handel’s Messiah concerts at Duke Chapel on the Duke University campus.
5. The Nutcracker
There are several opportunities during the month of December to experience The Nutcracker presented by Carolina Ballet. It’s a Holiday tradition people across the country have enjoyed for decades.
6. A Christmas Story: The Musical
Experience the 1983 Holiday classic as you’ve never seen it before! It’s the same story that comes to life on stage in a hilarious and festive way. Don’t miss this good-spirited musical at the Durham Performing Arts Center.
7. Durham Holiday Parade
A traditional Holiday parade you and the kids won’t want to miss! There will be extravagant floats, festive music, and lots of candy being handed out.
8. Ice Skating
Ice skating is a winter tradition that makes a perfect night out with the family or with your sweetheart. Depending on your skill level, show off your skills or just try and stay on your feet. Either way, you’ll leave with a smile and some new memories. There are several places to hit the ice around the Triangle. Orange County Sportsplex offers great prices but has specific hours open to the public. Be sure to check their website ahead of time. Closer to Raleigh, Cary Ice House also offers public ice skating hours.
Get Into the Holiday Spirit At Arrowhead Inn
Join us at our cozy and bright North Carolina inn and be sure to take advantage of our favorite local festivities. If you’re looking to save on your reservation or experience some smaller crowds to these festive Durham events, consider booking a midweek stay! Browse our accommodations and choose the room or suite that best fits your needs and wants. We have everything you need to get you into the Holiday spirit, including our daily three-course breakfast.
Check our availability and book your Christmas in Durham today! We can’t wait to welcome you!