Lighting the Season Close to Home

Holiday Lights & Gatherings Around Chapel Hill, Carrboro, Durham & Pittsboro

One of the things I love most about living and working here is how the holiday season brings us out of our homes and into our community — whether that’s strolling through neighborhoods glowing with lights, gathering to light a Menorah, or coming together to celebrate traditions rooted in connection and generosity.

If you’re looking for meaningful ways to enjoy the season without traveling far, here’s a curated guide to holiday lights and gatherings close to home, spanning Christmas, Chanukah, and Kwanzaa.

 Christmas & Holiday Light Displays

Holidays on Boone Street – Chapel Hill

A longtime local favorite, this neighborhood transforms each December with festive lights and projections synchronized to music. It’s an easy stop for a relaxed evening drive or a short stroll with cocoa in hand.

Lights on Birch Hollow – Chapel Hill

This display feels more like a production than a simple light show — thousands of colorful pixel lights choreographed to music. Families often make this an annual tradition, and it’s especially magical after dark.

P&C Holiday Lights – Bennett Ridge Road, Chapel Hill

A classic drive-up display where you tune your car radio to holiday music and enjoy the show. On select nights, Santa even makes an appearance, which makes this a favorite for younger kids.

Mangum Family Christmas Lights – Hillsborough

Just a short drive north, this synchronized light show is one of the most talked-about displays in Orange County. Big, joyful, and very much a community tradition.

FestiBull of Lights – Durham Bulls Athletic Park

An immersive holiday experience with walk-through light displays, activities, treats, and photo moments. This is a great option if you’re looking to make an evening of it with family or visiting guests.

 Chanukah Gatherings & Menorah Lightings

Chanukah in our area is beautifully centered on community, light, and gathering together — and there are several meaningful opportunities throughout the season:

Jewish for Good – Durham

Jewish for Good hosts welcoming Chanukah gatherings that often include Menorah lightings, music, food, and opportunities to give back. Their events are inclusive, multigenerational, and rooted in the spirit of care and connection.

Beth El Synagogue – Durham

Beth El traditionally offers Chanukah services and community celebrations throughout the holiday. These gatherings blend reflection, music, and warmth, and are a meaningful option for those seeking synagogue-based observance close to home.

Judea Reform Congregation – Durham

Judea Reform Congregation hosts engaging Chanukah programs, often including Shabbat-Chanukah services and community candle lightings. Many families appreciate the welcoming balance of tradition and accessibility.

Community Menorah Lighting at UNC – Chapel Hill

Held at the heart of campus, this annual Menorah lighting brings together students, families, and neighbors for songs, blessings, and a shared moment of light during the darkest nights of the year.

 Kwanzaa Community Celebration

Kwanzaa Celebration – Chapel Hill

Held each year in late December, this community celebration honors the principles of Kwanzaa through music, reflection, and cultural connection. It’s a meaningful, family-friendly gathering that welcomes the broader community.

A Few Local Tips for Enjoying the Season

From what I’ve learned over the years — and from what many families I work with share:

•  Weeknights are often calmer than weekends for light displays

•  Layers and thermoses go a long way for outdoor events

•  These outings make wonderful backdrops for holiday photos and memories

Most of all, these moments don’t have to be elaborate — they’re about being together, close to home, in a season that invites light and connection.

If you’d like this turned into a newsletter feature, email blast, print postcard, or social media series, I’m happy to format it to fit exactly how you share with your people.

Warmly,
Masha