We made it to Friday, Raleigh! Pat yourselves on the back. I know you must be as thankful as I am for the upcoming rain (yay for lower temps!), but the sun is just around the corner. I’ve rounded up a bunch of exciting events, from movie nights to summer markets, that will help you fully embrace those summer vibes, rain or shine! So, without further ado, let’s dive into your Friday five!
But First… Dine in the Sky at La Terrazza
There’s a lot of buzz about La Terrazza, the newest rooftop restaurant and sky bar in Downtown Raleigh! This Southern Italian and Mediterranean dining destination is now open and is already shaping up to be a summer must-visit. To celebrate their opening success, we’re giving away a $50 gift card to one lucky winner. Don’t pass up the chance to enjoy this exceptional dining experience in the sky—enter now for your chance to win!
The Call of the Sea (Or an Iconic Blondie) Awaits! 🎬✨
Hey, movie buffs! Get ready for an exciting weekend at the North Carolina Museum of Art: Moana’s heroic journey unfolds on Friday, July 12, and Barbie lights up the screen on Saturday, July 13 (weather permitting). Both movies start at 8:30 p.m., with tickets priced at $5 for members and $10 (plus taxes and fees) for nonmembers. It’s double the adventure and double the fun! Bring your family and friends for a magical cinematic experience under the stars. Concessions will be open and lawn seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis, so arrive early to claim your spot. For adverse weather details, check out the outdoor film policies on the NCMA website. Don’t miss out—secure your tickets today!
Soak in the Summer at Raleigh’s Summer Festival!
Dive into fun at Raleigh’s Summer Festival on Saturday, July 13, in Downtown Raleigh! Enjoy a day packed with fun activities for all ages, including a cornhole tournament, an adorable doggie contest, and tasty treats like ice cream, slushies, and lemonades. Cool beer and wine options are available for adults, along with “unplugged” outdoor games such as duck fishing and jump rope contests. Live music, of course, adds to the vibe all day. Admission is FREE, so stop by from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. for some fun in the sun (you may need to dodge a few raindrops at first 😉).
Bask in the Beauty of Dix Park’s Sunflower Field🌻
They’re back and more vibrant than ever! Head on over to Dorothea Dix Park for a stunning look at the sunflowers in full bloom. With 100,000 seeds planted this year, they’re more dazzling than ever. Visit soon to catch them at their peak! Stay cool in the shade at the pine tree grove and hydrate at the Magnolia Room if you’re heading out in the heat. Plus, the park is hosting a Sunflower Soiree on Saturday, July 13, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. It’s the perfect opportunity to witness these beauties at the golden hour! Enjoy acoustic music, grab a bite, and savor a beverage as you stroll through the sunflowers.
Did Someone Say ’80s Throwback?!
Rock out to iconic ’80s classics at Totally Tubular Festival on Saturday, July 13, at Red Hat Amphitheater. Starting at 5:45 p.m., join us for an epic lineup including Thomas Dolby, Thompson Twins’ Tom Bailey, Modern English, Men Without Hats, The Tubes, Wang Chung, Bow Wow Wow, Tommy Tutone, and Eddie Munoz of The Plimsouls. Sing and dance to hits like “She Blinded Me with Science,” “Hold Me Now,” “The Safety Dance,” and more. Secure your tickets now for an unforgettable, nostalgic celebration of the ’80s! 🎸🤘
Shop ‘Til You Drop at CAM’s Sunday Market
Gear up for an exciting afternoon at the Contemporary Art Museum’s bustling Sunday Market on Sunday, July 14, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.! Whether you’re into handmade jewelry, eye-catching prints, or something in between, the diverse array of vendors has something just for you. Picture yourself strolling through vibrant stalls, meeting new faces, and uncovering treasures you won’t find anywhere else. Grab your friends and come for a day filled with discovery and fun! Best part? Admission is FREE!
Friday Five: Party Down, It’s the Weekend! 🌞
Happy Friday, folks! We’ve officially hit the weekend and June is here—time to celebrate! As the days stretch longer and the heat cranks up, Raleigh is buzzing with anticipation for an epic summer ahead. And speaking of excitement, let’s give a big shoutout to our lucky giveaway winners of the “Taste of the U.S. Open” gift bags: Pam of Raleigh and Cindy of Fuquay-Varina! We hope you enjoy those local goodies while cheering on your favorites at the U.S. Open next week. Now, let’s dive into all of the hot happenings around town and embrace those summer vibes to make this weekend one for the books!