On New Year's Eve, downtown Raleigh shuts down to host more than 100 performances across 35 venues. There is a Ferris wheel and a countdown to midnight where a giant acorn drops from the sky, and celebratory fireworks highlight a full day of festivities. The outdoor concerts and acorn drop are free and directly outside of the Sheraton doors on Fayetteville St. Indoor concerts and other activities require a ticket that can be purchased ahead of time. Follow https://firstnightraleigh.com/performances/ for more information!
Lots of restaurants will be open New Year's Day - Big Ed's, Whiskey Kitchen, Beasley's Chicken and Waffles, and many others!