As the air turns crisp, leaves begin to fall, and pumpkins appear everywhere, A&G Residential’s new-home communities are glowing with holiday spirit. For homeowners in each of A&G’s neighborhoods, the holidays offer countless ways to enjoy the season, all just around the corner. From small-town parades and tree lightings to holiday markets, carriage rides, and family-friendly festivals, there will be something for everyone! Whether you’ve just moved into your brand-new A&G Residential home or are exploring one of our beautiful communities, the best local events are always just minutes away. 

Discover Holiday Magic in the Sandhills!

The Sandhills region is home to charming towns like Fayetteville, Raeford, Aberdeen, and Pinehurst. Each embraces the holidays with a blend of Southern charm and old-fashioned festivity. 

• Fayetteville’s A Dickens Holiday: This year, downtown Fayetteville will transform into a scene straight out of Victorian England for A Dickens Holiday on November 25th. Picture candlelit streets, carolers in hoop skirts, horse-drawn carriages, and the smell of roasted chestnuts wafting through the air. It’s the perfect mix of nostalgia and magic, capped off with a breathtaking fireworks display over Market Square. Whether you’re sipping cider or snapping family photos with Father Christmas, this is a must-do tradition! 
• Holiday Lights at the Garden: The Cape Fear Botanical Garden becomes a twinkling wonderland in December. Holiday Lights in the Garden features a one-mile, illuminated pathway filled with fun. S’mores, craft-making stations, and a photo with Santa are ideal for making memories on chilly nights. Make a date for a unique experience from December 5th to 21st.
• Christmas in the Pines: For something a bit more elegant, head to Pinehurst, NC, for a true holiday escape. This quaint village transforms itself with decorated storefronts, live music, and holiday markets offering everything from artisan gifts to homemade fudge. Visit Thanksgiving week to enjoy days dedicated to Shopping Small. Trim down that holiday shopping while supporting small businesses! Don’t miss the annual Tree Lighting on December 5th and enjoy Christmas Day Brunch at the famed Pinehurst Resort. 
• Pop Up in the Pines returns to Southern Pines on December 21st! Head to Southern Pines for this special holiday market hosted by Hatchet Brewing Company. Come with an empty stomach, as you're sure to find a delicious snack.

Small-Town Cheer Near Raeford and Hoke County

For A&G Residential’s Hoke County homeowners, holiday bliss awaits. 

• Raeford’s Hometown Christmas is a community favorite filled with local bands, floats, and of course, Santa himself. This year, enjoy a new arts & crafts vendors market while strolling with a cup of hot cocoa. Arrive early on December 6th to secure your parade spot and enjoy this tinsel-wrapped town. 
• Dirtbag Ales Farmers Market shifts to a holiday theme for the month of November with handmade goods, seasonal brews, and unique gifts. Head to Hope Mills on Sundays through November 21st (10am-2pm) to kick off the holiday season!

Festive Fun in the Triangle

For A&G Residential's homeowners who prefer Triangle-based activities, some of the best celebrations are a short drive away! 

• Downtown Raleigh’s Christmas Parade: Kick off the season on November 22nd with one of the largest parades in the Southeast! The Raleigh Christmas Parade includes floats, marching bands, dancers, and local personalities, all filling Fayetteville Street to the delight of visitors. Follow the parade with a stroll through nearby Moore Square for holiday shopping or a mug of peppermint mocha.
• Saint Nicholas European Christmas Market: Raleigh will host this amazing market on December 12th and 13th at the NC State Fairgrounds. Shop for Irish sweaters, Polish pottery, and more while enjoying locally made kielbasa or cabbage rolls! 
• Lights on the Neuse, in Clayton, offers a blend of rustic charm and family fun. Hop aboard the hayride for a dazzling trip through light displays, visit Santa’s Workshop, and enjoy homemade treats at the candy shop. It’s the perfect mix of holiday spirit and country warmth. 
• Chinese Lantern Festival: For an international twist, the Chinese Lantern Festival in Cary is a dazzling option. Huge, hand-crafted lanterns illuminate the park, creating a breathtaking display of color, light, and culture. It’s the perfect pairing to North Carolina’s mild winter evenings. This year’s festival will run from November 15th to January 11th.
• Fuquay-Varina’s Tree Lighting, on December 4th, will include live music, food trucks, and a special visit from Santa. Then, on December 7th, the Fuquay Christmas Parade rolls through town with floats, local dance troupes, and plenty of holiday cheer, perfect for those who want to enjoy community spirit close to home. 

Celebrate Your Home for the Holidays!

There are so many wonderful options for the holidays, and all are local to an A&G Residential community! Still, for those who prefer something quieter, hosting is made simple in your brand-new A&G home. With open floor plans, spacious kitchens, and inviting living areas, each of our designs is meant for bringing people together. Add a few sparkling lights, some warm cider, and a great guest list for the perfect celebration. 

Whether you’re driving through a tunnel of lights or simply cozying up in your new A&G home with a holiday movie, this season is all about connection. Discover your community while creating amazing memories with loved ones. If you live in an A&G Residential home, you are lucky enough to live just minutes from quaint towns that come alive for the holiday season. 

Reach out to the team at A&G Residential today to find the perfect floorplan for celebrating the holidays for years to come!