‘Tis the season to kick off the holidays, and Raleigh’s about to get a little brighter. It’s tree lighting time around the city, so we rounded up eight opportunities to get festive.

William Peace University Tree Lighting

Raleighites are invited to the university’s annual 40-ft tree lighting on Wednesday, Nov. 16 at 7 p.m. There will be treats and a professional photographer will be on site for family photos in front of the tree, printed free of charge.

State Tree Lighting

Join the State Capitol for a tree lighting by Gov. Roy Cooper on Thursday, Dec. 8. Starting at 5:30 p.m., listen to holiday music performed by The Raleigh Concert Band, visit with Santa, and enjoy cookies and cider. Stick around to tour the Capitol and experience its holiday decor and to enjoy a performance by Colla Voce.

Downtown Raleigh Tree Lighting

Join the Downtown Raleigh Alliance for a tree lighting on Friday, Nov. 18 from 5:30-8 p.m. at Duke Energy Center for the Performing Arts. Meet Santa Claus, enjoy food and drink vendors, and watch live performances. Arrive by 6:15 p.m. to catch the lighting.

Christmas at North Hills

The North Hills annual tree lighting is Saturday, Nov. 19 from 4-7 p.m. Santa will light the tree at 6 p.m. Plus, enjoy a vendor village, crafts, face painting, food trucks, and live Christmas tunes at this festive event.

Lafayette Village Lighting of the Trees

Stop by Lafayette Village on Saturday, Nov. 19 from 3-6 p.m. for a tree lighting celebration. Head to The Courtyard at 6 p.m. to watch the tree get lit, and enjoy shopping and music throughout the afternoon.

Fenton's Light the Square

Watch Fenton's 40-ft tree glisten on Saturday, Nov. 19 during the first annual tree lighting at 7:45 p.m.From 5-8:30 p.m., enjoy carriage rides, performances, a visit from Santa, a laser light show, a holiday post office, and festive drinks.

Brier Creek Tree Lighting Ceremony

Meet at the Clock Tower in the Brier Creek Commons on Friday, Dec. 2 to see Santa light the tree. More info is coming soon.

Menorah Lighting at Fenton Square

Join Fenton and Chabad of Cary on Wednesday, Dec. 21 for a menorah lighting on the 4th night of Chanukah. Enjoy ice skating, a carving of an ice menorah, and celebratory Chanukah music.