Culture vultures, this one’s for you. Raleigh’s upping the drama this year with a smattering of art exhibits and theater shows across multiple genres—shining a bright light on time-honored classics and untold stories alike. So whether you’re looking for a little bit of romance, a rush of adventure, a sense of mystery, a good cry or a reason to laugh out loud, there’s a playbill with your name on it delivering all the feels. Acting up encouraged.
Fan demand is real.In an era when fans are logging days in the virtual ticket queue and taking the battle up before Congress (hey, Scam Nation), burning vacay time to jump the pond for “more affordable” concert tickets, or straight “Taylor-gating” days before shows and scalping tickets, the concert-obsessed are reinforcing everything you ever learned about supply and demand. Case in point: Many hot tickets are selling out mere moments after going live—from live music to fests and beyond—and acts from P!nk to Raleigh-bred sardonic genius David Sedaris are adding dates to their local tours to meet the demand. The takeaway? Life’s short—buy the tickets. … And since, clearly, you are, here are the 2024 hottest events and fests worth spending your time and money on that promise to light up your calendar, life and feed with good vibes and great mems.
2023 Cocktail Classic (photo by Albright Studio)
Food + Bev Events
Beach Music & Brews Bash BRB, we’re on beach time. Transport to the tropics via the sunny shores of Raleigh’s go-to beer garden-slash-neighborhood hangout’s boozy shindig. Soak in the summer rays while sipping on themed-drinks and enjoying jivey sounds from Miss Mini & The Sandman Band. Ahh, paradise. June 1, tapyardraleigh.com
Raleigh International Food Festival Savor a ream of global flavors and jet about City Plaza to sample a smattering of 50+ food trucks and dessert carts repping countries across the world—plus, dance the day away with nonstop outdoor performances. Bon appétit! June 1, visitraleigh.com
Food Truck Rodeo It’s sure to be the Wild West on Fayetteville Street as a herd of food truck vendors ride into DTR to flaunt mouthwatering fare and bevs galore. Let’s roll. June 29, shoplocalraleigh.org
The Cocktail Classic All good stories start with cocktails—and that is def the case for The Cocktail Classic. The event of the year, Raleigh Magazine’s second annual sipping soiree is back and leveling up—giving you the exclusive op to sip ’tails concocted by our 10 Bartender of the Year noms in tandem with top-tier liquor labels. Consider this your sign to join us for this year’s spectacular event. Pro tip: Sign up for our newsletter for early bird ticket opps. Nov. 16, cocktailclassicraleigh.com
Music Director Carlos Miguel Prieto leading the North Carolina Symphony (photo courtesy of NC Symphony)
Live Music & Concerts
Beat It!
Live After 5 A monthly post-work block party Downtown? Say less. DRA’s free concert series is back—and this year, it’s for the girls. So on (fourth) Wednesdays, we gather our best gals (and guys!) and rendezvous at City Plaza for a hip and happenin’ celebration feting women in music via a curated four-concert series in partnership with Deep South Entertainment. Expect live tunes from a mix of cover bands and original artists, local vendors, and food trucks—and, yes, it’s Sip n’ Stroll friendly (cheers to that!). Hey, everybody loves a comeback story! April 24, May 29, June 26, July 31, downtownraleigh.org
Rialto Live Music The theater isn’t only for movies. Grab your popcorn and ~relish~ in more live music at The Rialto via a duo of throwback artists ready to take you back to your postgrunge era a la The Verve Pipe (May 3) or embrace the feeling of being “a stranger on the bus” with Joan Osborne (Sept. 14). therialto.com
UNC Health Summerfest Looks like the mirror in the sky has its answer—and love is this alfresco symphonic series. Gather under the stars for masterful rock, pop and classical NC Symphony arrangements, including a program feting Fleetwood Mac, Joni Mitchell, The Rolling Stones and more—NTM high-flying collabs with Cirque de la Symphonie. Out of sight, indeed. May 25–July 13, ncsymphony.org
RM REVEAL Opera in the Park Turns out pitches can sway the vibe. Hitting all the high notes this summer, take in operatic faves under the stars beneath the baton of a special guest conductor at NCMA’s Museum Park—or, if you close your eyes, an Italian coliseum. Sept. 12, Joseph M. Bryan Jr. Theater, ncopera.org
RM REVEALFlorencia En El Amazonas Say hola to NC Opera’s inaugural Spanish-sung opera! Inspired by author Gabriel Garcia Márquez, the melodic journey takes you by steamboat through the Amazon River with renowned opera singer Florencia Grimaldi as she seeks her long-lost beau—while navigating not just the worlds of love and yearning, but storms, a cholera outbreak and more. Will she persevere? Jan. 31, Feb. 2; ncopera.org
Playthrough Console yourselves: NC’s largest gaming convention is respawning for yet another bustling event pressing play on tournaments, cosplaying, free-to-play games and more. Sounds out of control! March 15–16, playthroughgc.com
Dreamville Festival J. Cole’s *dreamy* two-day fest returns to Dix Park to send attendees heads in the clouds—in the best way possible. Join peeps from across the globe to bop back and forth between the Rise and Shine stages for performances from both big names (hey, Nicki Minaj!) and up-and-comers—plus enjoy local food trucks, muralists, artisans and more. Don’t sleep on it (!). April 6–7, dreamvillefest.com
Out! Raleigh Pride Paint the town rainbow and get loud and proud for Raleigh’s fave pride fest benefiting the LGBT Center of Raleigh. Let us be perfectly queer—there’s no better way to show your pride than this dozen-year-running inclusive + fam-friendly fest feat. live entertainment, artists and vendors, beer garden, food, KidsZone, and more. And stay tuned for parties and drag shows throughout Pride Month. After all, there’s no such thing as being extra in June! June 22, outraleighpride.org
Outlaw Music Festival Calling all outlaws…“be groovy or leave, man” as legends Bob Dylan, Willie Nelson & Family, Robert Plant & Alison Krauss, and more headline Coastal Credit Union Music Park for “the biggest and best [fest] yet,” according to Nelson. “The life I love is making music with my friends…” Well played, Willie—and we’re here for it. June 23, blackbirdpresents.com
GalaxyCon The Bat Signal is calling. Step into a galaxy of fun and fandom upon entering into another dimension—er, The Raleigh Convention Center—for a four-day fest flaunting more than your average Comic-Con, from meet-and-greets to cosplay competitions. To infinity and beyond! July 25–28, galaxycon.com
African American Cultural Festival Back for its 15th iteration, this one-of-a-kind soiree showcases the beauty of African American culture via sounds spanning gospel to jazz, locally and nationally made creations, artisanal fare, and friendly faces. Aug. 31–Sept. 1, aacfestival.org
Hopscotch Music Festival Make plans to play hooky from work. From can’t-miss day parties to concerts at City Plaza and Moore Square stages to late-night sets and afterparties, DTR’s annual three-day jam sesh never disappoints. Rock on! Sept. 5–7, hopscotchmusicfest.com
BugFest Say hello to all the creepy crawlies at a totally buggin’ daylong insect extravaganza guaranteed to weave quite the web—and it appeals to more than just the arach-kids. How fly. Sept. 14, naturalsciences.org
IBMA Bluegrass Live! I guess that’s why they call it the blues, indeed. We wish we were pulling your strings, but it’s the end of an era as the world’s largest free urban bluegrass fest in the world takes stage for its finalRaleigh run (RIP) across a stretch of five blocks and six stages on Fayetteville Street—with bluegrass legends and rising artists taking to the Red Hat Amphitheater main stage each night to boot. We’ll miss you IBMA—and we would ~pick~ you all over again Sept. 29–30, worldofbluegrass.org
Giving Back
Feeling philanthropic? Tell Siri, Alexa, Cortana—or whatever virtual Geoffrey you fancy—to add these do-good do’s to your cal.
*Stuff* yourself with Italian eats + drinks for a good cause.
Each ticket provides a turkey to a family in need.
Snazz up your ’fit by donning your finest turkey hat.
Raleigh Carols
December
Fayetteville Street
Jingle all the way as caroling teams battle it out acapella-style (it’s giving a Pitch Perfect riff off)—plus ring in the season with festive food trucks, holiday kiosks and an appearance from Santa Claus.
Wake Tech Community College Foundation
Take it from Buddy: “The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear.”
UNC Health Championship
Sports
Game On!
Stanley Cup Playoffs Bunch of Jerks 🤝 chaos coordinators. Icing their goal to “cause chaos” this season, the Canes are coming off five Eastern Conference Finals appearances and a preseason consensus pick to win the Stanley Cup among sportsbooks. Take warning: This is our year. Say it with us: #LetsGoCanes!
Panthers vs. Kansas City Are you ready for it? Super Bowl champs Kansas City Chiefs descend on Charlotte to take on the Panthers for what promises to be a highly anticipated matchup—whether you’re in it for the football (Keep Pounding!) or the eye candy (see Panthers new coach and potential Swiftie spotting).
PPA Tour North Carolina Cup Relish the pros and amateurs alike as they take the pickleball court for the first time—or sign up to take the court yourself with 1,000+ of your would-be besties at Cary Tennis Park. Hot tip: Stay out of the kitchen—or dill with the consequences. April 2–7, ppatour.com
Diamond Days Take me out to… the City of Raleigh Museum to celebrate local baseball history—from great teams to players to parks. And don’t forget to load up on Cracker Jacks for fun events like autograph days, a party to watch the MLB All-Star Game, and a re-creation of an old-timey baseball game. Let’s hear it for America’s pastime! Opening April 25, cityofraleighmuseum.org
UNC Health Championship Post up for the par-tee of the year at this annual fancentric tourney teeing up four days of feel-good fun as part of the Korn Ferry Tour at the Donald Ross-designed Raleigh Country Club to benefit NC Health and community partners. May 30–June 2, unchealthchampionship.com
Ball Out Football is life—especially with not one but two winner-take-all $1 mill prizes on the line for the Men’s second-year now-48-team tourney + the inaugural Women’s eight-teamer headlined by Heather O’ Reilly’s U.S. Women as part of the expanded World Cup-style tourney at WakeMed Soccer Park June 5–10. And you better ~believe~ they’ll be kicking some grass.
Duke’s Mayo Classic It promises to be a packed house in Charlotte Sept. 7 as State and Tennessee fight out “which conference is better” on the field in this dynamic regional matchup between two preseason conference titans with uberpassionate fan bases… and “volunteer” to send those Vols back to “home sweet home Rocky Top” with an L. #ACC
U.S. Masters Disc Golf Championships Risk it or disc it for the debut of the PDGA Tim Selinske championships in Cary showcasing 400+ players over the age of 40 throwing out more than just their backs. It’s sure to be a good time—par none. Sept. 18–22, pdga.com
Comedy
Laugh It Up
Raleigh Comedy Festival: 30 comics. 3 nights. Endless laughs. “Y’all come laugh now” as local comedians Spencer Bland and Jordan Scott Huggins bring the Triangle’s first and only comedy fest to DTR to spotlight the city’s silliest—and no doubt leave audiences in stitches. Oct. 24–26, raleighcomedyfestival.com
Plus headliners we can’t wait to laugh at…
David Sedaris | April 8; Nov. 2 @ Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts
Zoltan Kaszas | Oct. 17–19 @ Goodnights Comedy Club
Feast Wilmington
Travel
5 Events WorthHitting the Road For
Feast Wilmington Taste, sip, celebrate! Bring your appetite and wear your stretchy pants for Wilm’s second-annual food and drink festival showcasing the area’s top culinary and mixology talent over three days and four unique events—think a chef + brewery pairing experience, elevated brunch affair, and pier party with live music to boot. We’re serious about those stretchy pants… March 29–30, 2025, feastwilmington.com
Lovin’ Life Music Fest Forget stick season. You’ll be loving spring—and life—indeed at Charlotte’s inaugural three-day multigenre fest featuring a star-studded lineup of 40+ renowned artists, including Noah Kahan, Stevie Nicks, Post Malone, Mt. Joy, Young the Giant, The Avett Brothers and many more (really, what’s not to love?!). When you’re not jamming, enjoy free activities and F&B and retail vendors. May 3–5, lovinlifemusicfest.com
Good Moon Wear your sunglasses at night for Durham-based electronic pop duo Sylvan Esso’s inaugural two-night music festival. As the sun sets and the moon rises, Sylvan Esso, Fleet Foxes, Hippo Campus, Dehd, Reyna Tropical and Truth Club will take stage at Durham Bulls Athletic Park for a vibey music-filled evening, followed by afterparties feat. DJ sets. A good (moon) night, indeed! May 31–June 1, goodmoonnc.com
Dinner in the Meadow Say “yes, chefs” as the region’s finest food talent whips up delectable dishes using ingredients sourced from local farms and artisans, with Franklin County’s Meadow Lane Farm serving as a gorgeous backdrop for feasting. Bonus: The annual farm-to-table dinner benefits the Leonard-Mobley Small Farm Fund, which aims to champion and nurture small farms in NC. We’ll eat to that! Sept. 15, dinnerinthemeadow.org
NC Holiday Flotilla We’ll all float on okay. … Snag a primo viewpoint on the docks as decked-out vessels show off over-the-top holiday lights and decor through the Banks Channel via Wrightsville Beach’s festive nighttime boat parade—then vote for your fave by text and enjoy a stunning fireworks show. Think of it like snow on the beach (*wink wink*). Nov. 30, ncholidayflotilla.org
DTR Tree Lighting
Tried + True
Stamp your Raleighite card with these recurring can’t-miss calendar items. Let’s run it back!
Art in Bloom Yet again rising to the occasion is a blooming oasis of flora—and fundraising—worth fawning over. March 19–23, ncartmuseum.org
Artsplosure It’s always an artsplosion at this vast culture and creativity mecca amping up all kinds of artisan pieces. May 18–19, artsplosure.org
DRA Tree Lighting Holidays are pine indeed when oohing and aahing at DTR’s sparkling tree, noshing on food-truck fare and snapping shots with Santa. November, downtownraleigh.org
Krispy Kreme Challenge Pro tip: ~Doughnut~ throw up. Do consume a dozen hot ones and race to the finish during this hourlong 5-miler. February, krispykremechallenge.com
Got to Be NC Festival Homegrown is hot—and the op to bag a smattering of locally made/grown products is sure to keep you feeling rooted. May 17–19, gottobenc.com
Dix Park Fireworks + Sunflowers Feelin’ sparks? America’s bday stays bangin’ in the open air at Dix with fireworks + food truck fare. And keep July vibes on high as the sunflowers bloom for summertime petal season in the park. dixpark.org
NC State Fair Deep-fried everything combined with high-flying rides is always a good idea at NC’s most massive annual event. Oct. 17–27, ncstatefair.org
Chinese Lantern Festival It might get dark early—but the 40+ lit Chinese lantern displays + performances keep the glow on each winter. Mid-November–early January, boothamphitheatre.com
80th Raleigh Christmas Parade Holidaze stay in step with the 80th iteration of DTR’s festive procession—the most massive parade spanning DC and Atlanta. Nov. 23, grma.org
The Christmas Carol The ghost of Christmas future says the show will continue to go on via this classic holiday tale told with a twist. December, theatreinthepark.com
The Nutcracker Get cracking at another magical rendition merging a classic tale—with a few fresh twists. Go nuts! Dec. 12–24, carolinaballet.com
First Night Raleigh Drop that Downtown acorn like it’s hot, er—like it’s 2025—to the backdrop of fireworks and fun once the clock strikes midnight. Dec. 31, firstnightraleigh.com
Illuminate Let’s get frosted! Head into the holidays via this year’s installment of Illuminate Art Walk, lighting up the DTR streets via large-scale interactive and light-based art pieces. It promises to be #lit. Winter, downtownraleigh.org
Carolina Ballet’s The Nutcracker (photo by Armes Photography)
Arts, Theatre & Exhibits
Alice in Wonderland “We’re all mad here.” … Play your cards right by grinning big and heading down the rabbit hole for an experience through the looking glass with Alice, the Mad Hatter, the Queen of Hearts—and all the Wonderland crew. Hats—and heads?—off! March 13–30, carolinaballet.com
Jane Eyre Pro female before there was feminism (aka protofeminism), this best of the Brontë sisters (hey, Charlotte!) classic brings its five-Tony legacy and timeless tale of love, loss and morality. May 29–June 9, theatreraleigh.com
Mamma Mia Here we go again! Unleash your inner dancing queen and tag along with Sophie as she tries to reveal who her real father is in this emotional yet feel-good musical based on ABBA’s smash hits that promises to be the time of your life. July 30–Aug. 4, dpacnc.com
Jekyll & Hyde If you thought your ex-best friend was two-faced… buckle up. Come to grips with the duality of humanity via the original dark side story following a man truly split (personality) between good and evil—set to live music and fresh composition. It’s sure to be straight barres. Oct. 17–Nov. 3, carolinaballet.com
Cinderella We’re ready for the ball—where’s our carriage? Making midnights popular before their T Swift prime (“At tea time, everybody agrees”), Raleigh Little Theatre’s classic staging is back with our fave fairy tale moment. If the shoe fits… Dec. 6–22, raleighlittletheatre.org
Amazing Pollinators Oh, honey! Buzz on by NCMNS for a game-based survival adventure diving into the importance of pollinators and the critical work they do for people and the planet. How sweet. Starting June 15, naturalsciences.org
Kinky Boots These boots were made for saving the family business! Follow protagonist Charlie Price as he embarks upon a journey to revive his dad’s struggling shoe biz—while finding an unlikely ally/entertainer who happens to be in search of some fab new footwear. Ready for some sole searching? June 7–23, raleighlittletheatre.org
Akeelah and the Bee Let us spell it out for you: Nab a seat for some inspiration via the story of a young girl creating a bit of buzz in her community as she utilizes her knack for spelling to compete at the National Spelling Bee. Yes, queen! Feb. 7–23, raleighlittletheatre.org
Grand Horizons The golden years can be filled with many things—even divorce! When two seniors elect to split after 50 years of being hitched, their grown-up kids don’t want to take no for an answer. Ah, gotta love family! May 17–June 1, honestpinttheatre.org
Bull Durham, A New Musical Fun fact: Scenes from the Academy Award-winning Kevin Costner- and Susan Sarandon-starring film were shot in Raleigh at Mitch’s Tavern. Now bringing the baseball classic back home is this “new musical” based on the MGM film; the Bulls (natch); and America’s two fave pastimes, baseball and love. It’s all about that base… Sept. 10–22, theatreraleigh.com
The 39 Steps I spy a silly parody show with ridiculous personalities and a quickly moving plot sure to keep you on the edge of your seat—and who doesn’t love a classic whodunit? Sleuths at the ready! October, theatreinthepark.com
Dueling Dinosaurs Cue the Jurassic Park theme song and stomp over to the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences for the long-awaited exhibit opening April 27. Channel your inner Ross and go way back in time—think 67 million years ago—for a roaring good time digging into the mysteries of the tyrannosaur and triceratops. And that’s the tea (rex)… duelingdinosaurs.org
Journey to Space Prepare for blast off! Childhood goals met via this interactive exhibit allowing you to (finally) live out your Neil Armstrong dreams by hypothetically traveling to, living and working in space—including facing the challenges of astronauts, engineers and scientists. It promises to be out of this world. Nov. 2–April 27, naturalsciences.org
Good Mythical Tour with Rhett & Link The ultimate dynamic duo, these bodacious Buies Creek-bred besties rose to acclaim for simply being chaotic and sampling snacks online—thus providing a new dream career for teenage boys all over. Now, the two are going beyond the web views for their first-ever tour. May the mythical mayhem begin! June 7, martinmariettacenter.com
From ballet slippers to microphone—check out this Raleigh artist’s musical journey.
McKenzie Van Oss may have retired from the Carolina Ballet—but she hasn’t permanently hung up her ballet slippers just yet. The 27-year-old multitalented artist recently released the latest music video for her single “reminder,” which not only incorporates her professional ballet background, but also features her former colleagues from the Carolina Ballet (dancers, costume, hair/makeup).
The Wisconsin native-turned-Raleighite joined the local ballet company at 18 years old—but during a period of less strenuous rehearsals and no school, she began dabbling in songwriting and performing at open mics. It wasn’t until an injury that led her to leave the Carolina Ballet in March that her music career really took off. Now, the indie-rock artist creates music about her life and experiences while still honoring her dancing roots in music videos. Here, we chat with the rising star about her artistic identity.
How has your training shaped your career as both a dancer and musician?As a kid, I had no time for other extracurricular activities because all my time went to ballet. Then, as I got older, I just really started loving music—but I love I was able to use my body to interpret it. Around age 11, I decided I wanted to be a professional dancer. It’s funny—when I was in the eighth grade, a friend and I wrote in our yearbook what we wanted to be when we grew up. I wrote ‘ballerina musician,’ which is hilarious—but at that time, I was taking the ballet route. Music was always there, but I put it on the back burner.
What finally sparked the transition from ballet dancer to musician? I got injured during COVID, and in 2021, I found out my back was broken. I was in a lot of pain, so I decided to write songs that I wanted to make bigger than just me. I got to work with my brother who’s also a musician, and he produced one of my songs. I was like, ‘Wow, I really want to do this. I love being in a position of artistic freedom and creating a safe and fun environment—no judgment or pressures.’
What influenced your latest single, “reminder”? I wrote this song during COVID. It was to give myself therapy—looking at my younger self and seeing it from a perspective of growth. I think “reminder” can be applied to my experiences within a toxic relationship and my hardships with ballet. It’s funny sometimes how multiple things can be happening in your life and have a similar effect.
What do you have coming up next? At the moment I’m pretty much locking myself away in my room and writing. I’m securing grant funding and raising money to make another music video for my single ‘Hot Air Balloon,’ which will be out in November. And on Oct. 28, I’ll be performing in the third annual Hauntaculer at Bond Brothers Eastside in Cary.
“It’s exhausting to worry about where and when to do a show—and where comes first,” says David Henderson, founder of Honest Pint Theatre Company on finding performance spaces in Raleigh.
Founded 10 years ago, Honest Pint performs in venues all over the city—from North Raleigh Arts & Creative Theatre and William Peace University to Theatre Raleigh and NC State. And finding a place to perform is a necessity that continues to grow more sparse. Each month, Henderson and co-artistic director Susannah Hough sit down to discuss the shows they hope to schedule for the year—and try to find available space.
“We have to figure out how to adjust what we want to do in the slots available, which unfortunately are few and far between,” explains Henderson. To wit, just because a space is available doesn’t make it feasible. Small theater companies, for example, can’t sell out 700-seat venues.
That lack of a home base while bouncing around from place to place not only takes up time and energy, it makes gaining a following of theatergoers more challenging. “It’s hard to gain a sense of permanence,” says Henderson.
In response to lack of room and parking, for her part, local talent/Theatre Raleigh Producing Artistic Director Lauren Kennedy Brady moved Theatre Raleigh to a new North Raleigh location in 2021 after previously renting at Martin Marietta.
“We have our own autonomy,” says Kennedy Brady of Theatre Raleigh’s current spot. “It’s given us a lot of freedom to grow in the way we’ve wanted for so long—and we’ve also been on the other side where we struggled to find a place to have performances.”
In efforts to assist others seeking a performance setting, Theatre Raleigh offers its venue at low-industry nonprofit rates to myriad organizations, including Honest Pint, in an effort to make theater accessible to performing agencies of all sizes. But booking remains tight and availability fills up fast.
Nevertheless, some organizations are content sans a space of their own. The Justice Theater Project hosts between 80 to 90% of its shows at Umstead Park United Church of Christ. Executive Producer Melissa Zeph appreciates a consistent spot that comes with nominal rental rates without routine ownership expenses and hassles. “I don’t know if I want a space,” says Zeph. “Who wants to own their own theater? Yuck! Although, it would be lovely to have an actual stage.”
While finding areas to perform can certainly be a challenge, there is a silver lining… our creative arts culture is continuing to burgeon. “It’s a gift that we have so much theater in the community,” says Henderson. “The hardest part is the infrastructure.”
While there may not be enough capacity for everybody, Raleigh’s local theater community remains communal. The majority of our local actors, talents and creatives lack a sense of rivalry, instead operating with a mission of sharing what they love and working together to elevate the arts in our city—with many theater professionals hoping to eventually create a theater district/hub for the creative arts Downtown.
“We all want one thing: to do what we love in an area we love. And the more we are able to do that here, the more artists we keep here,” says Henderson. “I think theater as we know it is changing, and if we want to survive, the Raleigh community has to find a way to keep it alive.”
You can’t buy happiness, but you can buy tickets—or just show up when it’s free. And you’re gonna wanna show up and show out for a host of these hot events. Here, our curated list of the top 50 must-go Raleigh events of the next 365 days—from now through March 2024. We chatted up top city organizers to vet THE hottest tickets in town—like, say, the return of Live After 5 (!) this month. So grab your planners or phones and lock in your faves. Do it for the mems.
50TH ANNIVERSARY OF HIP-HOP MUSIC CELEBRATION “Ain’t nuttin’ but a G thang, baby.” Dance in the streets—literally—to fete 50 years of hip-hop on Fayetteville Street with this daylong street party, complete with a Family Village, live beats to honor local hip-hop pioneers, plus performances from big names like Terminator X and Petey Pablo. And—wait for it—don your best kicks and peep yourself on the Jumbotron as Raleigh rolls out the red carpet for the Sneaker Ball. Pro tip: Until May 1, lend lore to City of Raleigh Museum’s campaign to collect iconic hip-hop photos connected to Raleigh + NC. “La-di-da-di, we like to party…” Aug. 12, cityofraleighmuseum.org
Brewgaloo (Garrett Poulos)
Feast on This Feelin’ upsetti? Then eat some spaghetti, sip some Italian wine and slurp a few scoops of gelato as you stroll the DTR streets and celebrate Italian heritage/culture via the Festa Italiana Fifth Annual Cultural Celebration. It’s got a pisa our hearts! … Meanwhile, hops heads can brew up some spirited fun on Fayetteville Street via Brewgaloo (April 21–22)—aka the country’s second-largest beer fest feat. 110+ brews, plus bands, vendors, food trucks and more—while those hankering to satiate their sweet tooth can head to City Plaza for NC Sugar Rush (May 28). Here we crumb! festaraleigh.com; shoplocalraleigh.org; ncsugarrush.com
Live After 5 The greatest comeback since Rihanna: Raleigh’s taking it retro by bringing back the decades-old all-the-rage free live ’80s & ’90s concert block party—which promises cross-appeal from Gen Z to Boomers (aw, the music unites us). And lemme upgrade ya! Trade those cooler cans for social district sips (fingers crossed), nosh on local food truck fare, and shop vintage clothing—and be sure to sip on the Wye Hill signature branded hard seltzer! See you at City Plaza every third Wednesday through July. Alexa, please play “Let’s Get the Party Started.” Starts April 19, downtownraleigh.org
Boylan Heights Art Walk Hype up with some Jay Z “Picasso Baby” or channel your inner Andy Warhol and while away the day going all “Viva la Vida” via Boylan Heights’ famed perennial art walk showcasing a hundred-plus local artists and craftspeople’s wares across myriad mediums on a gaggle of gorgeous neighborhood porches, yards and sidewalks.Winter tbd, boylanheights.org
Dueling Dinosaurs Rawr! Surely you won’t dino-snore during this highly anticipated years-in-the-making blast into the past—67 million years back, to be exact—highlighting the mysteries, history and research of two iconic dynamic dinos: the Triceratops and Tyrannosaurus rex. Can you dig it? Opening Dec. 2 (tentative), naturalsciences.org
Hopscotch (Michael Robson)
Jam Out We don’t sleep on live tunes. What with J. Cole’s annual Dreamville Festival (April 1–2) drawing music lovers the world over—especially thanks to this year’s star headliners Drake and Usher (“Usher, Usher, Usher…”). NTM Hopscotch’s perennial fall return to DTR (Sept. 7–9) with a slew of both recognized and up-and-coming artists—plus all the local vendors and parties for which its known, natch. And, not to pull your strings, the largest urban bluegrass festival in the world with IBMA World of Bluegrass (Sept. 26–30). dreamvillefest.com; hopscotchmusicfest.com; worldofbluegrass.org
Moonshine and Motorsports Drinking and driving merge (not at the same time)—and it’s a thing. The Moonshine and Motorsports Trail revs up on statewide speedways—and this NCMH detour into the speedhungry hoochers behind the multibillion-dollar industry is a dose of pop-history in the fast lane you’re gonna wanna make a pit stop for. Opening tbd, ncmuseumofhistory.org
Wine, Cheese & Chocolate Festival Whether you’re feeling cheesy, wine-y or just plain sweet, you’re gonna wanna belly up for Lafayette Village’s annual smorgasbord of all things wine, cheese and chocolate. Sample your way through vendors while enjoying live music and shopping—plus some sweet knowledge from the experts. Sounds gouda! April 29, lafayettevillageraleigh.com
Craig Robinson “BTB (bring that booty)” for a good time as everyone’s favorite The Office warehouse guy—NTM his roles in This Is the End and Hot Tub Time Machine—brings the funny to Raleigh. Sept. 15–17, improv.com
Moonlight in the Garden “And at last we see the light…” Only once in a blue moon are you able to meander through a magical lighted garden, roast a marshmallow or two, enjoy live jams, and sip on some warm cider on a cool November night at the JC Raulston Arboretum. How de-light-ful. Nov. 8–19, jcra.ncsu.edu
Holt Brothers Flag Football (Bray Photos)
Holt Brothers Flag Football Get a kick outta competition for a good cause? Who doesn’t. Hit the field for some Saturday game play for fun(draiser) feat. tailgating, touchdowns, tournaments and more to help local families fight cancer. Talk about teamwork! April 15, holtbrothersfoundation.org
Raleigh Dead queens, an executioner, a court of vipers and a jealous king? Yes, please. Get schooled on our fair city’s namesake Sir Walter Raleigh via this poignant biography by Raleigh’s claim to fame Ira David Wood III himself. What will Raleigh’s fate be?! June 8–18, theatreinthepark.com
The Soccer Tournament Channel your inner Ted Lasso and believe your fave team can shoot for the stars during this 32-team World Cup-style tourney consisting of group play and single elimination knockout rounds at WakeMed Soccer Park—with a winner-takes-all $1 million prize to boot. Can you kick it? June 1–4, thetournament.com
Frankenstein We all just want to be loved—even Frankenstein’s “repulsive” monster. Behold Carolina Ballet Artistic Director Zalman Raffael’s hauntingly theatrical and seductively beautiful interpretation of Mary Shelley’s classic tale, also feat. a “New Haunted Tale” choreographed by Robert Weiss. Oct. 12–29 (tentative), carolinaballet.com
Out! Raleigh Pride We’re here, we’re queer—and we’re ready to get loud and proud and paint Raleigh rainbow-colored for the 11th installment of Out! Raleigh Pride, the inclusive fam-friendly fest that promotes acceptance and diversity via a fun-filled day on Fayetteville Street with a slew of live entertainment, artists, vendors, activities, a KidsZone—and bites and brews, natch—all to benefit the LGBT Center of Raleigh. We love love! June 24, outraleigh.com
David Spade “It’s funny because it’s funny”—catch him inside DPAC for a can’t-miss laugh as the legendary comedian and actor (SNL, Grown Ups, Tommy Boy, Joe Dirt…) brings his Catch Me Inside tour to town. Life’s a garden—dig it! April 20, dpacnc.com
NC State Fair (Justin Kase Conder)
Local Festivities Oh, for the love of NC! It doesn’t get more Carolina than the Got to Be NC Festival (May 19–21)—three down-home days digging all things NC via family entertainment, agricultural shows, live music, local food and bev vendors, and more. … And we’re fairly certain you’re gonna wanna mark your cal for fried food, farm animals, games and rides galore at this year’s NC State Fair (Oct. 12–22). Pro tip: Wait at least 30 min after indulging in the likes of turkey legs, fried cookie dough and other fair fare to spike your adrenaline. ncstatefair.org; gottobencfestival.com
Kevin Nealon “I’m Kevin Nealon, and that’s news to me.” Before there was Michael Che and Colin Jost (and a cadre of other culturally iconic comics), Kevin Nealon helmed the SNL news desk delivering the wickedly funny Weekend Update from 1991–94—and now you can see him live in Raleigh. Oct. 5–7, goodnightscomedy.com
NCSU Home Opener Show up and show out for the season home opener at Carter-Finley as State pummels the Fighting Irish and sends them packing as the Whining Irish. Ayeee! #WITHSept. 9, gopack.com
Krispy Kreme Challenge “… And my stunning digestive pyrotechnics.” Take a lesson from 10 Things I Hate About You’s Cat and, well, do-nut show off your guts. Do pound 12 doughnuts, 2,400 calories and 5 miles in 1 hour as trailglazers unite annually in the name of charity for the North Carolina Children’s Hospital. February tbd, krispykremechallenge.com
Art in Bloom Hey, bloomers! The NCMA gets its annual floral transformation during this highly anticipated exhibit in which local artists recreate works found in the People’s Collection into colorful bloom-filled masterpieces. You best be-leaf it’s one for the books. March 2024 (tentative), ncartmuseum.org
Turkey Ball Without feather ado… you’re gonna wanna gobble up tix and gobble down this Italian Thanksgiving feast for the greater good via Mulino’s annual fundraiser, where your $45 ticket lets you have a ball (!) while sponsoring a local family’s Thanksgiving turkey. Gobble, gobble, good. Nov. 16, mulinoraleigh.com
Misery “I’m your No. 1 fan. There’s nothing to worry about. You’re gonna be just fine. I’ll take good care of you.” Unhinged Annie Wilkes turns true life stranger than fiction when she “rescues” (er, holds hostage) her fave novelist from a near-fatal car crash in this gripping Raleigh Little Theatre rendition of the Stephen King spine-tingling psychological thriller classic that made Kathy Bates a household (horror) name. Oct. 20–Nov. 5, raleighlittletheatre.org
Dan Soder Don’t take Soder too seriously—because he’s not. The self-dubbed “mall clown” (don’t worry—he’s “cool with it”) of, most recently, Showtime’s Billions fame (as Mafee) brings his charismatic casual style of “personal comedy” underground to Goodnights for three can’t-miss nights of funny. Aug. 24–26, goodnightscomedy.com
Summer Salute Hey, beaches! Ready to tropiclike it’s hot?! Putting the “fun” in fundraising, Raleigh’s best beach party is back courtesy of North State Bank’s 20th annual charity event. Coastal vibes are high @ North Ridge Country Club via The Embers live—plus dancing, food and waves of fun—with proceeds benefiting Transitions LifeCare. Let’s shellebrate! June 3, summersalute.com
Rock Your World For those about to rock—we salute you! Rock out for ’Merica at this 12th annual fest to benefit the U.S. Veterans Corps of Raleigh and the Hope For Haiti Foundation feat. Garland Mason, Band of Brothers, Sidewinder, the American Bombshells and other entertainment. Plus, honor the troops via wine tastings, a silent auction, liquor and food tents, a paratrooper exhibition, and more. Sept. 10, rockyourworldraleigh.com
ELF the Musical “Elves love to tell stories. I bet you didn’t know that about elves.” … No-Buddy is gonna wanna miss NC Theatre’s rendition of this feel-good Christmas classic about our fave orphaned elf’s journey to find his fam… and the true meaning of Christmas, of course. Time to embrace your inner elf! Dec. 9–17, nctheatre.com
Canes Season Opener Pucker up! Raleigh’s Bunch of Jerks take to the ice once again for another exciting season of goal-oriented competition. Stay tuned for the opposing team announcement this summer. … You know we’re all about that ice. October tbd, nhl.com
Packapalooza “We’re the red and white from State!”… Party with the Pack at NC State’s annual daylong street fest/block party feat. live music, activities, entertainment, delish fare and hundreds of vendor booths. A packed day of fun for sure (!). Aug. 26 (tentative), packapalooza.ncsu.edu
Over the Edge (Special Olympics North Carolina)
Over the Edge Calling all adrenaline junkies! The sky’s the limit for those ready to rappel down a DTR skyscraper while supporting Special Olympics North Carolina. Alexa, play “On Top of the World.”Sept. 30, sonc.net
City of Raleigh Museum 30th Anniversary Gala “G-l-a-m-o-r-o-u-s… We flyin’ first class… poppin’ Champagne” at the City of Raleigh Museum for its “pearl” anniversary. Rub shoulders with Raleighites to fete all the pearls of wisdom COR has dropped on us over the last 30 years—and cheers to 30 more.Sept. 23, cityofraleighmuseum.org
Hops for Hope Drink for the children? Twist our arms. Taste your way through 30+ special sips brewed up by local brewery and corporate team collabs to benefit Children’s Flight of Hope’s mission to provide families flights for specialized medical care. Pro tip: Be sure to sample Raleigh Mag’s curated brew in partnership with Crank Arm! Sept. 16, hopsforhope.org
Barbecue Drug intervention at the family barbecue? Beats the motel. Get the popcorn ready as the O’Mallery sibs clumsily call out sister Barbara for her out-of-hand drug habit in not one, but two family orientations—one white, one Black—to expose and juxtapose racial and family politics in this raucous and rollicking comedic affair that skewers our warped view of American family. Prepare yourself for some heat—both on and off the grill (!).Oct. 18–29, theatreraleigh.com
Artsplosure (Chris Richman)
Artsplosure Raleigh’s original and longest-running arts fest, this “artsplosion” transitions DTR into a two-day arts and culture mecca feat. a 175-countrywide-artist eclectic Art Market showcasing works across myriad mediums—plus live performances touting emerging national and regional acts, Kidsplosure, and unique installations you’ll def be drawn to. May 20–21, artsplosure.org
Kevin James: The Irregardless Tour “Safety never takes a holiday.” … Don’t miss this comedy king (of queens!) making his way to Raleigh for a night of funnies. “Grown-ups,” only. May 7, martinmariettacenter.com
Make Music Raleigh “Please don’t stop the music…” Join the global movement (1K+ cities worldwide—born 41 years ago in France) and sing and play on the streets, sidewalks and parks across Raleigh for this free live festival of music. June 21, makemusicday.org/raleighorg
Evening of Hope Go glam to give a damn. Sparkle—and spark hope—at Foundation of Hope’s annual elegant Evening of Hope Gala at the Pavilion at Angus Barn feat. a dazzling & delish multicourse dinner by Iron Chef Walter Royal with wine pairings, plus fab live and silent auctions and celeb keynote speaker (previous stars include Marie Osmond, Brooke Shields, Ashley Judd, LeAnn Rimes…), all to raise dollars, awareness and hope for—and stamp out the stigma around—mental illness. Pro tip: Up the ante by igniting hope at, well, younger gala Igniting Hope feat. live band! Sept. 13 & 14, walkforhope.com
Tried + True
Holiday events to keep your season spirited
Theatre in the Park’s A Christmas Carol 50th Anniversary Don’t be such a Scrooge. Wish a fond farewell to Ira David Wood III via this iconic musical, comedic and timely interpretation of Charles Dickens’ classic Christmas tale. December, @theatreinthepark
Chinese Lantern Festival Feast your eyes on 40+ awe-inspiring Chinese lantern displays and captivating nightly cultural performances. Glow on! Mid-November–early January, @booth_amp
First Night Raleigh Ring in the new year via DTR’s highly anticipated acorn drop, live music, fireworks and more. Here’s to 2024 (!). Dec. 31, @firstnightraleigh
DRA Tree Lighting For a tree-mendously good time, grab the fam and head to DTR’s tree lighting, also feat. local food trucks, beer and wine, and vendors (we’ll be there!)—plus photo ops with Santa (!). Nov. 17, @downtownraleighalliance
State Capitol Tree Lighting Ceremony You turn me on! Kick off the holiday season with decor, government dignitaries, sweet seasonal treats and perhaps an appearance from the jolly ’ol elf himself. December, @ncstatecapitol
Christmas Parade “Oh, my God! Santa, here?! I know him! I know him!” Spot Santa—and the others—from the streets or the couch (on ABC11) in the largest Xmas parade between DC and Atlanta. Nov. 18, @raleighchristmasparade
WRAL Nights of Lights For holiday magic served up caravan-style, grab your crew for a drive-thru light display that sleighs. Late November–late December, @wralnightsoflights
Illuminate See DTR light up (literally) for the holiday season as you stroll the streets and experience large-scale interactive and light-based art pieces. #ItsLit. Opens Dec. 1, @downtownraleighalliance
Jingle Ball Mix, mingle and chill with Kris Kringle at Capital City Clauses’ annual Jingle Ball at the Museum of Natural Sciences. Holly jolly, indeed! December, @capitalcityclauses.
Raleigh Little Theatre’s Cinderella, Holiday Musical If the shoe fits… wear it to see the fairy tale magic of Cinderella dancing the night away. Just be sure to make it home before midnight! Dec. 1–17, @rlt1936
Carolina Ballet’s The Nutcracker “Son of a nutcracker!” For an evening sure to be on pointe, nab tix to this classical Christmas performance. Let’s get crackin’. Dec. 12–24 (tentative), @carolinaballet
