Seasonal Best Bets

While any season is a great time to visit, WINTER brings holiday markets, parades, historical celebrations and basketball. Temperatures can be a little chilly in Chapel Hill and Orange County but we still enjoy our outdoor activities. There is plenty to celebrate in the communities of Orange County, NC!  And we invite you to join us!. Scroll down and plan your visit around these best bets for Winter. Hosting friends and family for the holidays? Here's a quick printable to do list.

The Arts

The Second Friday ArtWalk is a great way to experience the local art scene in Carrboro and Chapel Hill. Explore venues, have a bite to eat and socialize every month from 6-9 pm.

Hillsborough Art Walk Last Fridays picks back up in January and features 8 Vendors located in the downtown historic district.

From improv to live music & theatre performances, to film and family friendly events, The ArtsCenter has been a local favorite for year-round entertainment.

The Outdoors

Enjoy the parks, greenways, trails and gardensthroughout Orange County. No matter the weather, locals take advantage of the beautiful urban greenways, state and community parks with miles of trails, and community gardens perfect for hiking and relaxing. Find them on our Things to Do page.

The Shops & Markets

Meet at the Blue Dogwood Public Market for unique diverse local food & drink under one roof. THE BAR sells beer, wine, and cider that complements Blue Dogwood vendor food options, while also focusing on unique beers and ciders from smaller, community-oriented local and regional breweries and cideries. Currently there are 8 vendors that include handmade chocolates and pastries, a butchery, produce stand, Persian, Latin-American and vegan food options.

Stop by any of our Farmers Markets open Saturdays all year. Visit Things to Do Farm Life & Markets for a list of our farmers and markets.

The Sports & UNC Campus

The UNC-Chapel Hill Campus is beautiful all year round. Catch a Basketball game, take a guided tour or just a bike ride or a stroll through the campus can be a very rewarding experience!

Not just for Tar Heel fans. The Carolina Basketball Museum houses the best of UNC's Men's Basketball program that any basketball fan would appreciate.