We’re celebrating National Wine Day (Sunday, May 25) with a chance to treat yourself! One lucky winner will snag a $25 gift card to one of our favorite local gems, Raleigh Wine Shop. Enter below by Saturday, May 31, for your chance to win. Cheers! 🥂
Shop & Sip for Mom and Dad 💝
On the hunt for the perfect Mother’s or Father’s Day gift? Swing by Downtown Raleigh’s Fayetteville Street for the Ma & Pa Festival on Saturday, May 3, from 11 a.m.-6 p.m., hosted by The MAKRS Society! With over 100 local vendors, food trucks, live music, and family-friendly activities, there’s something for everyone. Sip on beer, wine, or bubbly in the tented lounge, create DIY flower crowns, test your swing in the golf simulator, or let the kids explore the interactive coloring book and Kids Zone. Best part? Admission is free!
Work Hard, Play Hard ✨
It’s the moment we’ve all been waiting for: adult recess! Let’s Get Social Raleigh and Raleigh Parks are teaming up once again for the Third Annual Adult Recess Festival on Saturday, May 3, from 2-8 p.m. Head to Fletcher Park for an afternoon of fun, games, and connection—whether you’re new to Raleigh or just looking to make new friends. Enjoy classic outdoor activities like dodgeball and tug-o-war, kick back with board games and trivia, and show some love to local, small Black-owned businesses. This 21+ event is free and open to the public. Get your tickets now!
Talk Derby to Me at Dram 🐎
Dust off those fancy hats—it’s Derby time! Join Dram & Draught for their annual Kentucky Derby Watch Party on Saturday, May 3, from 3-8 p.m. Celebrate the “greatest two minutes in sports” with festive Derby drink specials (hello, Mint Juleps and bourbon!), a live DJ, best hat and dressed competitions, and plenty of Derby-day fun. Cheers!
Juleps & Jazz? Count Me In!
Looking for even more Derby-day excitement? Head to the Watts & Ward Derby Soirée—the most stylish celebration in town! On Saturday, May 3, from 4-8 p.m., step into Southern elegance at this vintage-inspired event featuring live jazz, classic Derby cocktails, chic giveaways, and the best hat and best dressed couple contest 😉. Dress to impress—prizes await! Whether you’re sipping Mint Juleps or swaying to the music, this soirée is full of timeless charm and festive flair. Tickets are $30 and include event access, live music, and entry into all giveaways. Don’t miss your chance to celebrate Derby Day in style—grab your ticket now!
Cinco de MALA!
Celebrate Cinco de Mayo with Mala Pata’s final pop-up before their restaurant opens mid-May at Gateway Plaza! On Monday, May 5, from 6–9 p.m., they’ll be serving up tacos and more at their new bar neighbor, Natural Science. The pop-up menu includes Chips and Salsa, Whipped Potato Flautas, Grilled Shrimp and Roasted Pork Tacos on fresh corn tortillas, and Macha Chicken Wings—plus beer and margs, naturally. Prices range from $5–$16. Don’t miss this last chance to taste what’s coming before the official opening! 🌮
Friday Five: Your Weekend Plans, Served Sunny-Side Up!
Happy Friday, Raleigh! Spring is in full swing—which, in true North Carolina fashion, means it’s already flirting with summer temps (and, of course, a side of pollen). But hey, we’re embracing it because this weekend’s lineup is one for the books! Just don’t forget your allergy meds before heading outdoors 😉. Now, onto your Friday Five!
But First… A Fan-Favorite Returns! 🐰
Chocolate Bunny Shots are back! Our sweetest giveaway of the year is here, featuring a bottle of Baileys, a bottle of Smirnoff vanilla vodka, and two Easter bunnies. Enter by Friday, April 11, for your chance to win and indulge in the ultimate Easter basket. Who needs the Easter Bunny when you’ve got us?!