Happy Friday, Raleigh! The vibes are high and the forecast is looking *chef’s kiss* perfect for a festive weekend. Whether you’re here for the parties or just the excuse to indulge in some King Cake and cocktails, the City of Oaks has plenty to keep you entertained. So, let’s roll into the weekend with style—here’s your curated guide to all the fun!
But First… Last Chance to Share Your Restaurant Romance 💌
The month of love is almost over and today is the last day to enter our February giveaway! We’ve teamed up with one of our Downtown Raleigh favorites, Mulino Italian Kitchen & Bar, to give away a $50 Mulino gift card to one lucky storyteller. All you have to do is share your “Mulino Love Story” here before midnight tonight (Friday, Feb. 28), and you will be entered for a chance to win. Good luck!
Carnival Du Crank 🎉
The Mardi Gras magic kicks off at Crank Arm Brewing on Saturday, March 1, at 11 a.m., where the drinks and music are flowing. At noon, go for a lively sidewalk stroll through the Sip n’ Stroll Downtown Social District, bringing the spirit of New Orleans right to the heart of Raleigh. Then, the party keeps rolling back at Crank Arm, with live music, mouthwatering Po’Boys, and, of course, King Cake to sweeten the celebration. Grab your beads and get ready for a day of festive fun!
Mardi Gras Paint Party at Fat Tuesdays 🎨
Grab a brush and a cocktail—it’s time to paint and party! Join the Paint Party at Fat Tuesday Raleigh on Saturday, March 1, at 4 p.m., for an evening of music, drinks, and artistic fun. No experience is needed—just bring your vibe, and they’ll provide everything else. Plus, enjoy a special $10 drink deal while you create your masterpiece. Don’t miss this colorful night of art and entertainment! Get tickets!
Shop ‘Til You Drop at the Raleigh Winter Boutique Warehouse Sale 🛍
The Raleigh Boutique Warehouse Sale is back for ONE DAY ONLY with unbeatable deals from your favorite NC boutiques! Head over to 1705 E Millbrook Road on Sunday, March 2, and shop new merchandise at 20%–80% OFF. Snag trendy clothing, accessories, and more at this mega-shopping event. Get VIP tickets for early access or shop for free—either way, don’t miss out on the fashion finds of the season!
Mardi Gras Magic at Whitaker & Atlantic 🎷
Get ready for a jazzy, joy-filled afternoon at Whitaker & Atlantic’s annual Mardi Gras celebration this Sunday, March 2, from 12-4 p.m.! Enjoy live music from Grammy-nominated trumpeter Al Strong and his organ trio featuring Mark Wells, plus all the Mardi Gras essentials—king cake, gumbo, hurricanes, and festive vibes. Don your best costume and celebrate for a cause—this event benefits NowServing, helping combat food insecurity in our community. Don’t miss out on this epic New Orleans-style party. Get tickets now!
LET’S GO CANES 📣
The Calgary Flames are coming to the Lenovo Center, and the Carolina Hurricanes need you in the stands! Don’t miss the action as Raleigh’s favorite hockey team hits the ice for an epic showdown on Sunday, March 2, at 5 p.m. Some tickets are still available—grab yours now and get ready to cheer loud for the Canes!
Friday Five: Goodbye Dry January, Hello Fun February 🥂
Happy Friday, Raleigh! 🥳 If you’ve been powering through Dry January like myself or just patiently waiting for your friends to stop talking about it—WE (almost) MADE IT! Whether you’re celebrating with a well-earned cocktail or just looking for a fun way to kick off February, we’ve got your weekend plans covered. From shopping to sipping and everything in between, let’s dive into the best things happening around the City of Oaks!