Weekend!
Make It a...
Planning a trip to Hillsborough for the Solstice Lantern Walk or another Hillsborough Holiday Weekend happening? Make it an experience for a cause!
We encourage you to stay the night, enjoy a cozy meal or a sweet treat, and explore the charming shops and galleries that support our local artists and businesses this winter season.
This year, the Hillsborough Arts Council and The Colonial Inn are collaborating to bring you a special offer...
The Colonial Inn, a 1838 landmark in a quiet and sleepy southern town, was lovingly restored in 2020. The inn is one of the oldest operating hotels in the state and sits within the sixth most historic town in North Carolina. A cool and breezy 30-minute drive on I-40 from Raleigh-Durham International Airport and a .1-mi walk from the center of eclectic downtown restaurants, bars, art studios, and shops, the Colonial Inn is a haven for solace and a respite from the siege of busy life.
Through the end of 2025:
1. Support the Hillsborough Arts Council by making a donation! Click the "Donate Now" button below to donate in support of access to inclusive community arts programming in Hillsborough, NC.
2. Make a reservation at The Colonial Inn for a suite-style room within one month of your donation.
3. Present your donation receipt with reference number, and your donation will be matched up to $100 off your stay at The Inn.
4. Enjoy a weekend in historic Hillsborough, North Carolina!
Other places to stay in Hillsborough:
Hillsborough Holiday Weekends
The holidays in Hillsborough are a magical time, drawing visitors and locals alike for celebrations, shopping, and special events. This year, the Alliance for Historic Hillsborough, Hillsborough Arts Council, and Hillsborough/Orange County Chamber of Commerce are joining forces to highlight the unique offerings of our local merchants during Hillsborough Holiday Weekends!
From November 14th through December 21st, every weekend in Hillsborough will be filled with festive happenings, exclusive specials, and community cheer.
Local businesses are getting creative with their holiday spirit, through festive window displays, seasonal drink and food specials, craft kits, candy treats, and more—each offering a distinctive taste of Hillsborough’s charm.
November 28-30
December 5-7
December 12-14
December 19-21
And Don't Forget About...
Hillsborough's annual gingerbread house competition, held at participating downtown businesses, celebrates creative baking and brings joy to our community this holiday season.
- On display in downtown shop windows from Dec. 7 through Jan. 5, 2026.
- People’s Choice award winners will be announced on December 20 at the Solstice Lantern Walk!
Join local farmers and vendors at the David Price Farmers Market Pavilion (144 E Margaret Ln, Hillsborough, NC) for a hot cup of coffee, fresh baked goods, cheeses, and a taste of our community.
Saturday Mornings:
Nov: 8 AM-12 PM
Dec: 9 AM-12 PM