EVENTS 2025
Jan 3-5
Animate! Raleigh
Held at the Raleigh Convention Center, Animate! Raleigh is a three-day anime convention featuring autographs, cosplay wrestling, costume contests, panels, tabletop gaming, video gaming, and vendors. It’s a vibrant gathering for anime enthusiasts and pop culture fans. Learn more at galaxycon.com.
Jan 20
African American Cultural Celebration
Hosted by the North Carolina Museum of History, this event kicks off Black History Month with music, dance, food, and art, celebrating the rich heritage and contributions of African Americans in North Carolina. It’s a family-friendly event with free admission. Visit thrivinginraleigh.com.
Jan 27 - Feb 2
Triangle Restaurant Week
Restaurants across the Raleigh-Durham area offer special prix-fixe menus, giving diners the chance to experience new flavors and gourmet dishes at discounted prices. Details at trirestaurantweek.com.
Feb 22-23
Yadkin Winter Reds
Wine enthusiasts can explore the Yadkin Valley’s finest selections during this weekend event. Participating wineries offer tastings paired with delicious food, providing a cozy winter experience in North Carolina’s wine country. Learn more at ncfestivals.com.
Feb 29
Coastal Home & Garden Show
Taking place at the Crystal Coast Civic Center, this show features a variety of vendors showcasing the latest in home and garden products and services. It’s an excellent opportunity for homeowners to gather ideas and meet industry professionals. Learn more at ncfestivals.com.
Angus Barn
Sprawling upscale steakhouse in a barn-like setting with an opulent wine cellar, lounge & cigar bar.
9401 Glenwood Ave, Raleigh, NC 27617
Phone: (919) 781-2444 | Web: angusbarn.com
Crawford and Son
Dinner spot serving a curated menu of modern comfort plates, craft cocktails & drinking vinegars.
618 N Person St, Raleigh, NC 27604
Phone: (919) 307-4647 | Web: crawfordandsonrestaurant.com
Hayes Barton Cafe & Dessertery
American chow inspired by the ‘40s & popular desserts in diner-like digs with an old-fashioned vibe.
2000 Fairview Rd, Raleigh, NC 27608
Phone: (919) 856-8551 | Web: hayesbartoncafeanddessertery.com
Have a restaurant you’d like us to feature?
Send in a recommendation for your favorite restaurant to be added to our list. Be sure to mention why you think they are worthy of being featured and include a link to their website.
Sitti
Modern versions of Lebanese dishes served in an airy room with a communal table & art deco bar.
137 S Wilmington St, Raleigh, NC
Glenwood Grill & Annex
Veteran destination for Southern coastal cooking presented against a sleek backdrop.
2603 Glenwood Ave, Raleigh, NC
Poole’s
Circa-1945 diner with seasonal comfort food, cocktails & house desserts in a retro-chic setting.
426 S McDowell St, Raleigh, NC
Brewery Bhavana
Maker-inspired hub for craft beer, dim sum, books & flowers in a stylish space.
218 S Blount St, Raleigh, NC
Saint Jacques
Unassuming strip-mall location serving elevated, classic French fare suitable for special occasions.
6112 Falls of Neuse Rd, Raleigh, NC
The Fiction Kitchen
Outpost with a globally inspired menu of thoughtfully sourced, all-vegetarian fare.
428 S Dawson St, Raleigh, NC
The
Cowfish Sushi Burger Bar
Gourmet burgers & sushi, & fusion combos of the 2, plus beer & spirits in a vibrant, colorful space.
4208 Six Forks Rd Ste 100, Raleigh, NC
Salt & Lime Cabo Grill
Warm, contemporary Mexican restaurant serving up a menu of Baja-style dishes & cocktails.
6006 Falls of Neuse Rd, Raleigh, NC
Trali Irish Pub
An Irish pub with bar staples & daily specials plus a patio.
10370 Moncreiffe Rd #109, Raleigh, NC
Bida Manda
Hip, modern hideaway for Laotian fare & exotic cocktails in a slick, yet woodsy looking space.
222 S Blount St, Raleigh, NC
EVENTS 2024
Mar 1-2
NC International Auto Expo
Held at the Raleigh Convention Center, this expo showcases the latest cars, trucks, and electric vehicles, featuring test drives and auto industry exhibits. Learn more at ncautoexpo.com.
Mar 7-8
Rumba on the Lumber
Held in Lumberton, this festival combines sports, music, and food. Events include a 5K run, family fun run, chili cook-off, and live entertainment, making it a lively weekend for all ages. Learn more at ncfestivals.com.
Mar 15
Raleigh St. Patrick’s Day Parade & Festival
One of the largest St. Patrick’s Day celebrations in the state, this downtown parade features Irish dancers, bagpipers, and a lively festival with music and food. Learn more at raleighstpats.org.
Apr 5-6
Dreamville Festival
Founded by rapper J. Cole, the Dreamville Festival returns to Dorothea Dix Park in Raleigh for its final edition. The festival features a diverse lineup of music artists across multiple stages, celebrating culture, music, and community. Learn more at dreamvillefest.com.
April 26
Spring Daze Arts & Crafts Festival
Located in Cary’s Bond Park, this festival showcases over 170 North Carolina artists, live music, and food vendors. It’s a perfect family outing to enjoy art and nature combined. Learn more at carync.gov.
May 2-3
BBQ Fest on the Neuse
The World’s Largest Whole Hog Cook-off! Delicious BBQ, food
EVENTS 2025
competitions, shopping, arts & crafts, carnival rides, live music, kid zone, Disney character meet & greet, helicopter tours, bike show, car show, More than 150 Vendors, dance demonstrations, beer/wine/spirits garden, and more! Visit kinstonbbq.com for details.
May 3-4, 2025
Artsplosure: The Raleigh Arts Festival
This downtown Raleigh arts festival showcases visual and performing arts, featuring over 170 artists, live music, and interactive exhibits. Learn more at artsplosure.org.
May 24-26
Animazement
A large-scale anime and Japanese culture convention held at the Raleigh Convention Center, featuring cosplay, panels, and special guests from the anime industry. Learn more a animazement.org.
Jun 7
Raleigh’s Largest International Food Festival
Taking place at Raleigh City Plaza, this festival features over 50 countries represented through food, music, and cultural performances. It’s a culinary journey around the world in the heart of Raleigh. Largest Outdoor International Dance Party! Non-stop performances! Come spend the day with us downtown Raleigh, discover our city and support local, familyowned businesses. Details at eventbrite.com.
Jul 4
Independence Day Celebrations
The Raleigh-Durham area hosts various events, including fireworks, parades, and concerts, to celebrate Independence Day. Notable locations include the State Fairgrounds and downtown Raleigh. Details at visitraleigh.com.
EVENTS 2025
Aug 23
Durham Earth Day Festival
Hosted at Durham Central Park, this festival focuses on environmental education, featuring sustainable vendors, live music, and hands-on activities for all ages. It’s a celebration of our planet and community efforts to protect it. Visit discoverdurham.com.
Aug 23-24
Lazy Daze Arts + Crafts Festival
Join us for the 49th annual Lazy Daze Arts & Crafts Festival showcasing over 250 exceptional artists from across the country! Enjoy live entertainment on four stages, savor delicious offerings from 25+ food vendors, and relax in our beer garden & Lazy Lounge. Kids will love Kid Daze with fun activities throughout including the new Kid Collectors Market, where they can purchase pint-sized pieces created by our Lazy Daze artists! Participate in interactive art activities, engage with demonstrations by professional artisans, and embrace the “Lazy Daze” of summer. We can’t wait to see you there! Learn more at carync.gov.
Sep 4-6
Hopscotch Music Festival
A three-day music festival in downtown Raleigh, featuring a diverse lineup of artists across multiple venues. Known for its eclectic mix of genres, it’s a highlight for music enthusiasts. Join us this September in the heart of downtown Raleigh for NC’s premier indie & experimental music festival. Learn more at hopscotchmusicfest.com.
Sep 14 BugFest
Hosted by the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences in downtown Raleigh, BugFest is the largest one-day insect-themed festival in the country. Attendees can explore hundreds of exhibits, participate in educational activities, and even sample insect-based cuisine. Learn more at naturalsciences.org.
EVENTS 2025
Oct 3-4
Wide Open Bluegrass Festival
Part of the International Bluegrass Music Association’s World of Bluegrass week, this festival in downtown Raleigh showcases top bluegrass artists through free street performances and ticketed shows. The event also includes a dance tent, workshops, and a bustling exhibit hall. Learn more at raleighwideopen.com.
Oct 19
Durham Food Truck Rodeo
Held at Durham Central Park, this event brings together dozens of the area’s best food trucks, serving everything from barbecue to international cuisine. Visitors can enjoy live music, craft beer, and family-friendly activities while sampling delicious eats. Visit durhamcentralpark.org.
Nov 1-2
The North Carolina Wine Festival
This festival at Koka Booth Amphitheatre in Cary showcases some of North Carolina’s finest wineries alongside gourmet food, live music, and artisan vendors. It’s a great opportunity to taste and learn about local wines. Details at ncwinefestival.com.
Dec 31
First Night Raleigh
Ring in the new year with Raleigh’s biggest New Year’s Eve celebration, featuring live performances, interactive art installations, and familyfriendly activities across downtown. The night ends with a spectacular acorn drop and fireworks. Details at artsplosure.org and visitraleigh.com.
Be Flexible: Travel during off-peak seasons for cheaper flights and accommodations. Midweek flights are often more affordable than weekend ones.
Stay Smart: Skip pricey hotels and opt for hostels, vacation rentals, or even house-sitting gigs.
Eat Local: Ditch the tourist traps and try street food or local markets for authentic, wallet-friendly meals.
Use Freebies: Many cities offer free walking tours, museums with free days, and parks brimming with charm.
Plan Ahead: Book tickets early to snag the best deals.
Traveling on a budget doesn’t mean sacrificing fun. With these tips, you can make memories that are priceless—without spending a fortune! Where will your next adventure take you?
LGBT CENTER OF RALEIGH
The LGBT Center of Raleigh, which serves, empowers, and advocates for the well-being of our diverse LGBTQ+ communities, is seeking volunteer leaders to join its dynamic board of directors. Phone: (919) 832-4484 | Web: www.lgbtcenterofraleigh.com
EQUALITY NORTH CAROLINA
Equality North Carolina is the oldest statewide organization in the country dedicated to securing rights and protections for the LGBTQ community. Web: equalitync.org
GAY FOR GOOD
Gay For Good Raleigh-Durham, the first chapter in the South, mobilizes lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer (LGBTQ+) and ally volunteers to promote diversity, foster inclusion and strengthen ties to the broader Raleigh-Durham community. Web: gayforgood.org/raleigh-durham
OUT! RALEIGH PRIDE
This event is an important way to raise the necessary funds to support the LGBT Center of Raleigh and all of its 20+ amazing community programs. Our last in-person event brought thousands of people onto Raleigh’s Fayetteville Street to celebrate the LGBTQIA+ community, our friends, and families. Web: outraleigh.com
TRIANGLE PRIDE BAND
Triangle Pride Band is an LGBTQ and ally community band program in the Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill area of North Carolina, with weekly rehearsals weekly at Longleaf School of the Arts in Raleigh. Web: triangleprideband.com
LGBTQ CENTER OF DURHAM
The LGBTQ Center of Durham is committed to serving the City and County of Durham as well as the surrounding counties to ensure all folks have the resources necessary to live full, joyful lives. We provide space and resources to all people. Web: lgbtqcenterofdurham.org
Feeling drained by endless notifications and screen time? A digital detox might be just what you need to reclaim your energy and focus!
Start small—try unplugging for an hour a day. Use this time to read, journal, or simply relax. Gradually extend your tech-free periods to rediscover what life feels like offline.
Create phone-free zones, like your bedroom or dinner table, to reconnect with yourself and loved ones. Replace mindless scrolling with meaningful hobbies, like painting, yoga, or gardening.
You’ll notice big changes: better sleep, improved concentration, and more time for what truly matters. It’s not about ditching tech completely—it’s about finding balance.
So, go ahead! Power down to power up your life. What will you do with your reclaimed time?
