During this special luminary program, Bennett Place invites you to reflect on the end of the Civil War as a momentous step towards freedom for all Americans and the end of chattel slavery in the United States. Walk among 3,310 luminaries - one for every 1,000 enslaved people in North Carolina - and reflect on experiences of enslavement and freedom. Historians dot the path and share stories of people's pathways to freedom and life after slavery & the Civil War.

Calling all Jeepers! Join us for our newest auto show, dedicated entirely to Jeeps! From classic Willys to trail-ready Wranglers and custom builds, we’re celebrating all makes and models of this iconic off-roader.

Join us as we kick off the 12th Annual El Quixote Festival — Poetic Voices | Voces Poéticas! Stop by to meet the authors, learn about their work, purchase books directly from them, and have your copies personally signed. Whether you’re looking for bilingual children’s books, inspiring stories, poetry, or beautifully illustrated works, there will be something for readers of all ages.

All aboard for a rockin’ good time! Thomas the Tank Engine, everyone’s favorite #1 blue engine, is coming to town. Day Out With Thomas™ will be stopping at the North Carolina Transportation Museum with a celebration of music on September 25-27 and October 2-4, 2026. Day Out With Thomas™ is a fun-filled family event that takes place at Heritage Railways across the world. Each ticket includes a train ride with a life-sized Thomas the Tank Engine as well as access to a full day of activities for all to enjoy. Optional rides with Percy are also available for an additional cost (the N.C. Transportation Museum is the only venue in North Carolina featuring train rides with Percy).

Visit our pop-up exhibit and learn the story of how the greenway system came to be and the incredible history of the efforts behind creating the Capital Area Greenway System. Explore the history of greenway planning, construction, and use while viewing artifacts that represent 50 years of greenway history. Exhibit Dates Oct. 2 - Oct. 22 Tuesday - Saturday, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Sunday, 1 - 4 p.m. Closed Mondays

October 30 & 31, 2026 7:30 p.m. “Legends by Lantern” celebrates the numerous railroad legends in North Carolina folklore. Come join us for “Legends by Lantern” where we trace the stories and tales of North Carolina Transportation folklore. Beginning at the Barber Junction Visitor’s Center, the lantern-light tour will visit numerous buildings on site. Join our guides and learn about tragedies of the past, and the rumors surrounding them. If you enjoy lantern tours and old-fashioned legends, this tour is definitely for you.

“Well, are you coming?” Inspired by the hit movie, this holiday favorite comes to life as you and your family take a magical trip on THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride! Set to the sounds of the motion picture soundtrack, families are sure to enjoy their trip to the North Pole, complete with hot chocolate and cookies served on board the train. Passengers are entertained by a reading of Chris Van Allsburg’s classic, The Polar Express. Upon arrival at the North Pole, passengers deboard to watch Santa present the first gift of Christmas. Before exiting the train at Candy Cane Lane, all passengers who BELIEVE will receive their own sleigh bell. Experience the joy of caroling and holiday entertainment that will surely become an annual family tradition. Children of all ages are encouraged to wear their pajamas for the ride and join in on the magic of Christmas!

On Saturday, November 7 from 11:00 AM–7:00 PM, come together with friends, family, and neighbors to celebrate Friendsgiving, support local businesses, and officially kick off the holiday season. Shop from local vendors, makers, artisans, and small businesses while getting an early start on your holiday shopping. Enjoy delicious food and drinks, live music and entertainment, family activities, and a festive community atmosphere in the heart of Downtown Raleigh. The festival will also include a special Veterans tribute and recognition as we honor those who have served our country. Come spend the day celebrating everything we love about Raleigh while supporting the people and small businesses that make our community special. Shop Local. Eat Local. Gather. Give Thanks. Get Holiday Ready.

This December 12, join us at City Plaza in Downtown Raleigh for a festive, European-inspired holiday experience filled with international flavors, unique gifts, seasonal treats, live entertainment and family fun. Shop for one-of-a-kind gifts from around the world, enjoy international food and holiday favorites, warm up with hot chocolate and explore a large selection of international wine and beer. Families can enjoy kids crafts, letters to Santa, Christmas carols and festive activities throughout the day. Come celebrate the season, explore the world and create lasting holiday memories in the heart of Raleigh.

Celebrate the season with a magical medley of holiday happenings! Stroll the Historic Village bedecked in its holiday finery amid villagers bustling with preparations and offering greetings to their neighbors and friends. Bring your family for a festive exploration of our historic homes that are warmed by fires and alive with holiday lights, candles, and traditional decorations. Experience traditional music, dance, and see the celebrations of holidays past.