Tree lighting in Raleigh at Moore Square kicks off 2025 holiday season
RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) -- The 2025 holiday season in Raleigh is officially here after with the tree lighting ceremony downtown.
The tree lighting ceremony took place Friday night from 5:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. in Moore Square at 300 S. Blount St., with the official lighting taking place at 6:15 p.m.
There was food, drinks, and vendors. In addition, restaurants and shops were open downtown for those wanting to get a jump start on their Christmas shopping.
The tree lighting serves as a prelude to the highly anticipated Raleigh Christmas Parade, which follows on Saturday.
Raleigh Christmas Parade
The parade is celebrating its 81st year in 2025. The Grand Marshal this year is NC State legend Dereck Whittenburg.
ABC11 will provide live coverage starting at 9:00 a.m. with the parade beginning at 9:30 a.m.
For those unable to attend in person, ABC11 will livestream the entire event, ensuring you don't miss a moment.
For our full guide, see here.
Parade Route
The parade will follow this route:
- Starts at the intersection of Hillsborough Street and St. Mary's Street
- Proceeds east on Hillsborough Street to the State Capitol
- Turns right onto Salisbury Street
- Turns left onto Morgan Street
- Turns right onto Fayetteville Street
- Ends at Lenoir Street, where it disbands
SEE ALSO | Christmas parades and holiday events across central NC: 2025 Holiday Guide
