Life is too short for FOMO—so grab the tickets and file the memories. From hot concerts and epic fests to arts, theater, comedy and beyond, Raleigh’s lineup is stacked. Here, our bucket list worth clearing your cal for.
Linkin Park courtesy of Lenovo Center
Halsey courtesy of Coastal Credit Union Music Park at Walnut Creek
The Black Keys courtesy of Red Hat Amphitheater
Tyler the Creator courtesy of Lenovo Center
Goo Goo Dolls courtesy of Red Hat Amphiteater
Jason Aldean courtesy of Coastal Credit Union Music Park at Walnut Creek
Mt. Joy courtesy of Koka Booth Amphitheater
The Lumineers courtesy of Coastal Credit Union Music Park at Walnut Creek
Mr. Worldwide, Gwen Stefani, Benson Boone and more head to Queen City to throw some love in your life. Charlotte, lovinlifemusicfest.com
Iron Blossom Music Festival
Sept. 20–21
High spirits blossom at this indie music fest featuring the likes of Vampire Weekend, Khruangbin and Rainbow Kitten Surprise. Richmond, ironblossomfestival.com
NC Holiday Flotilla
Nov. 28–30
Float on alright at the annual boat-decorating competition and parade kicking off the holiday season. Wrightsville Beach, ncholidayflotilla.org
Feast Wilmington
March 2026
Feed your need and consider this fest your passport to all the food and bevs that give Wilmy its foodie credentials. Wilmington, feastwilmington.com
Nikki Glaser Courtesy of Martin Marietta
Craig Robinson courtesy of Raleigh Improv
Shane Gillis courtesy of Live Nation
Godfrey courtesy of Raleigh Improv
Randy Feltface by Dylan Woodley courtesy of Goodnights Comedy Club
Comedy
Nikki Glaser, April 12–13 @ Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts
*Quietly* cheer on your fave pro golfers as they vie for the top title at one of the finest country clubs in the U.S. Cue the golf clap! Quail Hollow Club, Charlotte, pgachampionship.com
The Soccer Tournament
June 4–9
Kick it for a shot at $1 mill with locals, legends and professionals at the “most exciting and highest stakes” 7 vs. 7 soccer tourney in the world. WakeMed Soccer Park, Cary, tst7v7.com
City of Oaks Marathon
Nov. 2
Put your body’s endurance to the test on this 26.2-mile run from North Raleigh to DTR—or opt to hold a snarky poster and line the course to cheer on the overachievers. Both are winners in our book! Raleigh, cityofoaksmarathon.com
Panthers vs. Bills
Fall, date TBD
Are you ready for it? This year’s T. Swift and company losers—er, the AFC runners-up Buffalo Bills—look to get stampeded in Charlotte by a Panthers team on the glowup finding new life under coach Dave Canales and now-hot QB “the Carolina Reaper” Bryce Young. Keep Pounding! Bank of America Stadium, Charlotte, panthers.com
Swan Lake courtesy of Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts
Tee up for a better tomorrow while catching future PGA pros in action, indulging in top-tier hospitality and making a real impact—all from the best seat on the green at Raleigh Country Club. unchealthchampionship.com
Summer Salute
May 31
No beach? No problem. Get your shag on at North Ridge Country Club by swaying to live beach music, running it back at the Pink Flamingo Casino and partying for Transitions LifeCare—good vibes guaranteed. northstatebank.com
Rock Your World
Sept. 7
Party hard—give back harder. Crank up the volume at this adrenaline-fueled fest serving live music, sky-high thrills and nonstop energy that promise to, ahem, rock your world as you hop and bop to Band of Brothers and the Rae Radick Band, throw your hats for a military tribute, and sample sips and snacks in support of the Hope for Haiti Foundation and more. hopeforhaitifoundation.com
Evening of Hope &Igniting Hope
Sept. 10 & 11
Double the impact as hope takes center stage across two powerhouse nights of purpose hosted by Foundation of Hope at the Pavilion at the Angus Barn to fuel critical mental health research and support for those battling mental illness. Glam up for a gala and inspiring keynote, then shift gears for a more laid-back evening of dinner, drinks and dancing. walkforhope.com
MightyGivebackConcert
Expected September
Nothing’s mightier than music with a mission. Dip your feet into this philosophy by uplifting local nonprofits—and dancing hard—with a high-energy lineup of live music at Red Hat Amp.bandtogethernc.org
Hops for Hope
Sept. 13
The only thing better than cracking open a cold one? Cracking open a cold one for a cause. Compassion meets craft beer at the 10th annual brew-tiful fundraising fest landing in North Hills’ Midtown Park to fund life-changing medical flights for children and families in need. We’ll drink to that—with plenty of brews to pick from.childrensflightofhope.org
Over the Edge
Sept. 27
Got guts? Prove it by taking the plunge from 19 stories up and rappelling down DTR’s Pendo building to benefit Special Olympics NC. Besides serving serious bragging rights, the drop mirrors the everyday adversities individuals with disabilities encounter while raising funds to make them feel a little lighter. sonc.net
Holt BrothersFoundationFunkraiser
Nov. 2
Dance, drink and party for the children? Twist our arm. Uptown funk is gonna give it to you via sips, snacks, music and a memorabilia auction at this annual fundraiser at Angus Barn uplifting NFL football stars Terrence and Torry Holt’s mission to support children of cancer patients. holtbrothersfoundation.org
Turkey Ball
Expected November
Gobble till you wobble for good. A ticket to this ambient annual alfresco gala poolside at Mulino means a holiday turkey for a family in need. mulinoraleigh.com
Figgy Pudding Caroling Competition
Dec. 6
The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear, so lift your voices high and battle it out at Moore Square for the caroling crown while bolstering local education through the Wake Tech Community College Foundation.figgypuddingnc.org
Jingle Ball
Expected December
Mix, mingle and jingle all the way at Marbles Kids Museum to bring Christmas to life for local tots in need via thousands of toys and toy program funding in Wake County. And be sure to be nice—Kris Kringle may make an appearance… capitalcityclauses.org
Photo by Shepard Barnes, courtesy of Live After 5
Photo by Keenan Hairston, courtesy of Out! Raleigh
Courtesy of NC State Fair
Courtesy of Raleigh Christmas Parade
Art in Bloom courtesy of Visit Raleigh
Tried & True
Midtown Beach Music
Thursdays April–June
Tropical oasis: found. Don your Hawaiian shirts, leis and carefree attitudes for Midtown’s lineup of sunny tunes paired with food trucks, sips and all-around good vibes. visitnorthhills.com
Artsplosure
May 17–18
It’s always an explosion of creativity and color at this art mecca serving up a curated lineup of ~175 visual artists from across the country spotlighting ceramics, glass, jewelry, metal, painting and photography. artsplosure.org
Live After 5
May 21, June 18, July 23, Aug. 20
A post-work DTR block party? Say less. DRA’s free summer concert series is back with a spotlight on NC-grown artists. Expect drinks and dancing backdropped by cover bands, original artists, vendors and food trucks all rooted in the Tarheel State. downtownraleigh.org
Out! Raleigh
June 20–21
Local flavors, vibrant entertainment and all the rainbow energy ignite Fayetteville Street to celebrate and support the community and LGBT Center of Raleigh. On Friday, leave the kids behind for a night of adults-only fun. #Boots lgbtcenterofraleigh.com
NC State Fair
Oct. 16–26
Feast your eyes, ears and stomachs on food, artisan goods, games and more at the state’s fave fest. Pro tip: Wait at least 30 minutes after housing a turkey leg or order of fried Oreos to spike your adrenaline on a ride. ncagr.gov
DRA Tree Lighting
November
And Raleigh said, “Let there be light!” Get lit for the holiday event you’ve been pining (!) for by oohing and aahing at the sparkling tree while sipping and snacking on food truck fare and drink vendors. Rockefeller Center, who? downtownraleigh.org
Raleigh Christmas Parade
Nov. 22
Ring in the holidays with parading pageantry and excitement as floats, marching bands, dancers and giant balloons grace—and float over—the DTR streets. And you better watch out (till the end) because Santa Claus is coming to town.grma.org
A Christmas Carol
December
The ghost of Christmas future says laughter and good humor is coming to the Cap City via Theatre in the Park’s annual showcase of good tidings and cheer with a twist. theatreinthepark.com
Krispy Kreme Challenge
February 2026
Pound a dozen doughnuts (or 2,400 calories) in the middle of a 5-mile jaunt and run it back in under an hour, all in the name of charity for the UNC Children’s Hospital. Take it from us—if you want to avoid running through partially digested doughnuts, stay ahead of the crowd. krispykremechallenge.com
Art in Bloom
March 2026
NCMA’s annual petal power is back as florists from across the state and beyond interpret works from the People’s Collection into bold and blooming masterpieces. Okay, bloomers! ncartmuseum.org
If you’re all about that bass—and want no treble—move your hips to the energetic beats of this blonde body-positive pop queen. Time to woman up! redhatamphitheater.com
9/12 Opa! Wines
Embark on a journey of Greek wines—sans the plane ticket—via a tasting tour through white, rosé, red and sweet wines paired with light Greek bites. Opa, indeed! vitishouse.com
9/12 Opera in the Park
It’s giving Italian coliseum vibes—but in Raleigh. Here for it! Skip the flight and ~rome~ to NCMA’s Museum Park for a breathtaking backdrop serving the soaring arias and enchanting melodies of opera’s most memorable masterpieces. ncopera.org
9/12–14 William Montgomery
Prepare for chaos. Live podcast Kill Tony’s longest-running regular—aka “The Big Red Machine”—is taking the stage in Raleigh to spread some laughter. goodnightscomedy.com
9/12–29 Scotch Symphony & Creatures of Prometheus
Leap and bound into the Scottish Highlands with creatures of Prometheus, who promise to bring light and fire to your night (iykyk). carolinaballet.com
9/13 Hootie & the Blowfish
They only wanna be with you! Get ready to move and groove at the Creek to some heart-wrenching tunes with a twistedly optimistic beat—in the best possible way. livenation.com
9/13 Twenty One Pilots
Better sounds that no one’s ever heard: found. Turn back time to the good old days (aka the mid-2010s) via the duo’s The Clancy World Tour. pncarena.com
9/14 BugFest
This totally buggin’ daylong insect extravaganza feat. a range of creepy crawlies is guaranteed to weave quite the web—and appeal to more than just the arach-kids. How fly! naturalsciences.org
9/14 CAROLINADAZE Music & Arts Festival
The future’s looking bright. Sunny Carolina days lie ahead at this festival-meets-poetry slam event at Red Hat powered by younger generations looking to build a better future and feat. performances by Janelle Monáe, Lute and more. carolinadaze.com
9/14 Geek and Grub
Solemnly swear you’re up to no good? Roll out your robes and broomsticks for a spellbinding evening of mystical competitions, scavenger hunts, elixir sipping and butter beer guzzling in this Wizard Edition Night Market. downtownraleigh.org
9/14 Hops for Hope
Make life-saving and life-changing care accessible for children in need via Children’s Flight of Hope by sampling 30+ breweries and noshing on food truck fare at Midtown Park in North Hills. It’s a win-win! childrensflightofhope.org
9/14 Joan Osborne
The theater isn’t only for movies. Grab your popcorn and embrace the feeling of being “a stranger on the bus” with this masterful performer’s diverse range of genres. therialto.com
9/14 Live at Boxyard
Step into the creative process and catch a glimpse of the behind-the-scenes process of screen-printing, leather working, painting and creating moss frames at this interactive event. boxyard.rtp.org
9/14 NCSU vs. La Tech 🏈
Cheer on the Pack as they send the Bulldogs back to the doghouse. gopack.com
9/14 Sola Hot Mini 5K
Do-nut give up—no matter how winded you may be—during Sola Coffee Cafe’s annual race raising money for ALS research, which starts and ends at the North Raleigh coffee shop. Winner’s a hole in one (!). solahotmini5k.com
9/14 Tacos & Margs Crawl
’Taco bout a great way to spend a Saturday! Kick things off at a Cinco de Mayo-style Fiesta at The Avenue, then bounce around DTR bars and restos to enjoy tacos, margaritas, DJs, themed giveaways and more. barcrawlnation.com
9/14, 21, 28 Live & Local Patio Series
Vibe over to Village District for an evening of Corepower yoga and ~namaste~ for the live music to treat both your body and spirit. shopvillagedistrict.com
9/14–12/28 Fall Concert Series
Dance along to the likes of Joan Osborne, Cowboy Mouth, The Brothers Comatose and 19 other artists gracing The Rialto this fall. May the music play on! @the.rialto
9/15 La Fiesta del Pueblo
Fiesta mode: on. The Triangle’s largest festival of Latin American culture features live music and performances, vendors, food trucks, educational booths, activities and more on Fayetteville Street. Arriba! elpueblo.org
9/16–22 Negroni Week
Stir it up at a host of local bars and restaurants participating in this annual spirited celebration supporting Slow Food’s mission to provide sustainable and equitable food and beverage for all. negroniweek.com
9/17 Coffee & Culture
Caffeinate—and enjoy a continental breakfast—while getting cultured, connecting with community members, recognizing United Arts grant recipients, and enjoying performers and speakers, at Marbles Kids Museum. unitedarts.org
9/18 Creed
Take it back to the “summer of ’99” via the legendary rock band’s Walnut Creek show with 3 Doors Down and Finger Eleven. Talk about a ~beautiful~ thing! livenation.com
9/18 Mt. Joy
Calling all strangers! Pack your astrovan to drive way up over Mt. Joy to find your “silver lining” with these Philly indie-rock songsters. boothamphitheatre.com
9/18–20 The Green Chair Project Chairity Event
Shop designer-curated spaces and furniture while making a difference for children and families in need of home furnishings. Sitting well, indeed. thegreenchair.org
9/18–22 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.pdga.com
Raleigh Mag and Crank Arm Brewing are teaming up for Hops for Hope—and we need your help naming our custom collab beer! Join us from 5 to 8pm at Crank Arm to choose your fave name. Cheers to charity! @raleighmagazine
7/13 Juke Joint Celebration
Channel Taylor Swift and “shake it off” at this “music-and-story-soaked symposium exploring the history, significance and timeless outlaw appeal of juke joint.” Ready to get jumpin’? cityofraleighmuseum.org
7/13 Nick MacDaniels of Big Something
Something big is brewing—aka bops and bangers of the pop, funk and improvisation persuasion at NC State’s Centennial Campus. Buckle up for one heck of a musical journey! thatstation.net
7/13 Trees of the Prairie Ridge Arboretum
Care for a promenade into the prairie? Learn all about roughly 10 types of trees at this nature play day. Alexa, play “Let it Grow,” from The Lorax stat. naturalsciences.org
7/13–15 Durham’s Oyster Fest
Aww, shucks! Get clammy with NC oysters (plus, cocktails and live tunes) on The Durham rooftop for the second year running. Sea you there? thedurham.com
Keep your head in the clouds during a six-hourlong day party highlighting DJs spinning deep electronic dance bops. Go on, bop to it! between2clouds.com
7/15 Stitching and Embroidery Workshop
Bad bitches get stitches. Amp up your embroidery expertise with Aliyah Bonnette—and create a sketchbook cover sure to slay. We’re on pins and needles! ncartmuseum.org
7/16 Mojo Brookzz
Uh oh… there’s a Thawt in My House. Find this video skit sensation, impersonator and, ahem, Sugardaddy, breaking out the sillies onstage. goodnightscomedy.com
7/16 Rooftop Jazz Brunch With Andia’s
“’Cause I’m on top of the world…” Enjoy sweet views and three courses of sweet treats complements of Andia’s Ice Cream atop The Willard. Belly up for the bites, stay for the views! thewillardraleigh.com
7/16 Young the Giant
If you need “something to believe in,” let it be a fun-filled night crooin’ to tunes that will def get your body moving. redhatamphitheater.com
7/18–23 Carolina Mudcats vs. Kannapolis Cannon Ballers
Take us out to the ball game (!). See the Mudcats take on the Cannon Ballers for a slew of matchups that are sure to hit home. Batter up! milb.com
7/18 BBQ & Bourbon Event
Grab your barbe-boo and come hungry for a three-meat BBQ buffet, plus a guided tasting of a slew of bourbons: Blanton’s, Buffalo Trace, Eagle Rare, 1792 Small Batch and Stagg Jr. Ready to go hog wild? samjonesbbq.com
7/18 Soul Journey
Bop over to the Bodega for strummin’, swayin’ and sippin’ on the patio—aka a summer night well spent! brooksidebodega.com
7/19 Parlor Pizza Night
Wanna pizza this? Grab a slice of fresh Neapolitan style pizza compliments of chef Alejandro Contreras of Tepuy Pizza. And don’t miss the Italian-inspired cocktails, Italian wine list and local beers. Cheers, indeed! @heightshouseparlor
7/19 Spin Doctors with Adam Pitts
If you’re lookin’ for little miss can’t be wrong or even two princes to kneel before you, find ’em on Fayetteville Street while you rock out for this final installment of Live After Five version 2.0. … What’cha gonna do to get into another one of these rock ’n’ roll songs?downtownraleigh.org
Started in 2015, Hops for Hope pairs 30 local corporate teams around town with a local brewery to create a one-of-a-kind beer benefiting Children’s Flight of Hope. After all, teamwork makes the dream work—especially when it’s for a good cause. Join us on July 13 from 5 to 8pm at Crank Arm to try out our custom brew and help us come up with a name for it (choose between Hope Rides Eternal, Bunny Hops for Hope and Wheels of Hope!). Plus, be sure to mark your cal for the main event at Midtown Park in North Hills on Sept. 16 feat. live music, food trucks, a kid’s zone, and beer tasting + judging. … We’re all about drinking for good!
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
