This is the South, right?

I guess I can't complain as a transplanted Yankee but it looks like there will a white (or ice) Christmas in part of Downtown Raleigh. The Winterfest Celebration kicks off on Friday, December 4th with lots of music, crafts, Santa & Scrooge. It looks like something for everyone including a real ice skating rink.  Look for Date & Skate nights every Thursday through January. Details on the grand opening celebration from the web site are below or follow the link.

LOCATION:
The AT&T Raleigh Winterfest Ice Rink will be located in City Plaza situated on the southern end of the 400 block of Fayetteville Street. 

http://www.godowntownraleigh.com/raleighwinterfest/general_info.htm

RALEIGH WINTERFEST KICKOFF EVENT FRIDAY, DECEMBER 4, 2009 from 5pm to 11pm

HEADLINER MICHELLE BRANCH LIVE IN CONCERT

Other Entertainment Includes:

• Figure Skating Performances
• Local Dancers and Choirs
• Live Music
• Ice Sculpting
• Sledding Ramps
• Free Carriage Rides
• Visit from Santa
• Ice Rink Open to the Public
(Admission and Skate Rental: $6)
• Mayor’s Tree Lighting Ceremony

Crafters and Artisans:
• Ahpeele
• Annelore's German Bakery
• Autumn Spirits Photography
• JustNeem
• Raimbow Tree
• Stitch/Holly Aiken Bags
• Stampin Up
• SSD Jewelry
• Sweet T, a Cakery

The Food Bank of Central and Eastern North Carolina and the Christmas Wish Program will be accepting donations during the kickoff event on Friday, December 4. To help these causes, you can bring canned food for the food bank and a $1 donation to the Christmas Wish Program.