First Night Raleigh

Tonight on the Main Stage we are delighted to present:
JULIA. 6:00 - 7:00 PM
African American Dance Ensemble 7:15 - 7:50 PM
Magic Al 8:00 - 8:20 PM
Raleigh Rockers 8:25 - 9:15 PM
Azul Zapata 9:45 - 10:30 PM
Magic Al 10:30 - 11:00 PM
Jason Scott & The High Heat 11:00 - 12:00 AM

Hosted by Nick Neptune & Mayor Janet Cowell

Join us in City Plaza on Fayetteville Street for an unforgettable night of music, dance, and celebration!

🎶 First Night Raleigh 2026 Music Highlight 🎶

Celebrate New Year’s Eve at Church Of The Good Shepherd during WRAL First Night Raleigh with live music throughout the evening by:
Mason Via at 7:00 & 9:00 PM
Dom Flemons at 8:00 & 10:00 PM

📍 125 Hillsborough St, Raleigh, NC 27603
🎉 December 31

Sponsored by Tharrington Smith LLP

🎆 Acorn Drop & Fireworks 🎆

Catch the Acorn Drop & Fireworks visible from Fayetteville Street & City Plaza in Downtown Raleigh - there will be an early Acorn Drop at 7:00 PM as well as the iconic Midnight Acorn Drop & Fireworks show!

LOCATION - 400 Fayetteville Street, Raleigh, NC 27601

TIME -
Early Acorn Drop 7:00 PM
Late Acorn Drop & Fireworks Show 12:00 AM

You do not need a ticket to WRAL First Night Raleigh in order to watch the Acorn Drop & Fireworks show, however there is so much more to do! This year's event includes musical performances, comedy shows, amusement rides, Children's Celebration, a Silent Disco and so much more!

Head to FirstNightRaleigh.com for all event details

WRAL First Night Raleigh will feature TWO Amusement Rides this year - A full size Ferris Wheel & the Inferno! 🎡

First Night is the first and only event to feature amusement rides right in the heart of Downtown Raleigh. Head down to Fayetteville Street to take a ride! Amusement rides will be open from 2:00 - 11:00 PM on New Year's Eve

A ticket to WRAL First Night Raleigh is required to ride - see FirstNightRaleigh.com for tickets and details