Top Ten reasons to visit Chapel Hill, Carrboro and Hillsborough during the holidays.

by Patty Griffin | November 05 2009

Oh sure, we have tree lightings, parades, awesome shopping, and so much more during the holidays. But here’s a few of our favorite reasons it’s the most wonderful time to be here.

1. The Botanical Gardens are a Hoot!
Celebrate the dark winter nights with a family Owl Prowl at the North Carolina Botanical Garden. Hike into the woods with guides to hear hoots and shrieks. It’s a wail of a good time. 919-962-0522

2. A Taste of Winter
Crook’s Corner cooks up special holiday fare, including sweetbreads, corned hams and pineapple upside-down cakes, to name just a few.

3. Jazz up your Holidays
The Triangle Jazz Orchestra performs at the ArtsCenter in Carrboro on Wednesday, December 2nd. Hear your favorite Glenn Miller, Benny Goodman, Count Basie, and Duke Ellington tunes, as well as contemporary jazz and blues. www.trianglejazzorchestra.com

4. The Art of Christmas
Stop by the Carolina Inn and take a self-guided tour as local artists provide their unique interpretations of “The Twelve Days of Christmas.” From November 29th thru January 3rd. Free. No reservations required.

5. Gingerbread House Competition
It’s the 7th Annual Gingerbread House Competition at the Carolina Inn. See these imaginative yet edible masterpieces from December 12th thru December 28th. Free. No reservations required. And no nibbling!

6. Relive Christmas Past
The holidays as they used to be come alive during the Preservation Society’s 2009 Holiday House Tour. Seven local homes are on the tour, including the Horace Williams House, an 1850’s home boasting Chapel Hill’s first octagonal room. December 12 and 13th. Tickets at www.chapelhillpreservation.com/housetour2009.html

7. A Fantasy Classic at Memorial Hall
Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker is an imaginative holiday classic for kids of all ages, especially when performed by the Carolina Ballet at Memorial Hall. Tickets at www.carolinaperformingarts.org

8. Look! Up in the Sky!
The Star of Bethlehem show at the Morehead Planetarium is a local holiday favorite. In fact, this is an updated version of the show that has captivated audiences since the 1940s. More at www.moreheadplanetarium.org

9. Ladies Night Out
Downtown Historic Hillsborough makes shopping extra-special on November 19th from 6-9 pm with specials, events and giveaways for women shoppers. 5% of every purchase also benefits Hillsborough’s Neighbor House. Details at www.shophillsboroughnc.com

10. History by Candlelight
The 23rd Annual Hillsborough Christmas Candlelight Tour is a unique opportunity to visit historic buildings, churches, sites and private homes in Hillsborough. Some locations will feature live music, refreshments, and other holiday diversions. December 6th, noon to 7pm. For ticket information visit www.candlelighttour.com.

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