We are doing things a little differently this month and showing some love by teaming up with one of our favorite restaurants in Raleigh, Mulino Italian Kitchen & Bar, for our February contest. They are hosting their annual Love Story Contest and giving away a $50 gift card to one lucky storyteller. Have a lovable memory from Mulino? Share your story by Friday, Feb. 28, for your chance to win!
“Say You Can’t Sleep, Baby I Know…” That’s That Espresso Martini Flight at Dram & Draught
Celebrate Valentine’s Day with a sip (or three) at Dram & Draught on Friday, Feb. 14! Whether you’re raising a glass with your Galentines or toasting with your Valentine, they have a selection of special flights to commemorate the occasion. I can’t wait to try the Espresso Martini Flight but if you are not a coffee fan, they also have red, white, and sparkling wine flights and a whiskey flight. However you celebrate, make it a night to remember—one delicious sip at a time.
No Reservations Required: Valentine’s Date Night in the Park
Celebrate love at Downtown Cary Park’s free Valentine’s Date Night in the Park on Friday, Feb. 14! This cozy and creative evening is perfect for couples looking to connect and have fun. Enjoy the enchanting live music of guitarist Alex Gordez, who will set the mood with a blend of classical, Latin, Tango, Flamenco, Gypsy, and Jazz tunes. Get hands-on with mini terrarium building led by Izzy Hall of Garden & Gather, or take on the fun ‘Paint Your Partner’ challenge with Lauren Likes. Couples will also be able to enjoy a variety of free crafts together. Empanadas and More food truck will also be onsite to satisfy your cravings.
Love Stinks, Let’s Drink
Not feeling the Valentine’s Day vibes? Killjoy’s got you covered with an Anti-Valentine’s Day Party on Saturday, Feb. 15! From 10 p.m. to 1 a.m., drown out the heartache with non-stop breakup anthems, sip on killer cocktails, and belt out your feelings. Whether you’re celebrating your independence or just here for the drama, this is the perfect place to let it all out! #NoLoveSongsAllowed
Pawsome News: The TICA Cat Show is Back!
Get ready to purr-use some of the finest felines around—It’s TICA Time is bringing its annual cat show to the NC State Fairgrounds! On Saturday, Feb. 15, head to the Holshouser Building to watch majestic pedigreed cats and fabulous household kitties compete for top titles.
Meet breeders and exhibitors, cheer on your favorite feline, shop with vendors, and even adopt a cat or kitten from local shelters. Whether you’re a cat connoisseur or just looking for a paws-itively fun day, this is the purr-fect event for you! (P.S. Sorry for all the puns, but I had to.)
Friday Five: Bundle Up & Get Out
I know, I know—it’s cold, but we’ve got this, people! Throw on your warmest coat and get ready to brave the chill for some exciting long weekend events. But don’t worry, come Tuesday, I fully support staying cozy at home with a good book. Why? Because “Onyx Storm” drops on Tuesday, Jan. 21! For those who don’t know this is the follow-up to “Fourth Wing” and “Iron Flame” by the one and only Rebecca Yarros. I’m squeezing in a quick reread this weekend between events—if you haven’t started yet, do yourself a favor and dive in. You can thank me later.
Okay, tangent over. Let’s get to it—here’s your Friday Five!
But First… Don’t Miss Our Bomb Giveaway
This month, we’re embracing wellness and giving away TWO amazing prizes. Enter by Friday, Jan. 31, to win a $50 gift card to The Bomb Bar, Raleigh’s newest go-to spot for smoothies, and a $50 gift card for Arrichion Hot Yoga + Circuit Training next door. It’s the perfect combo to fuel your body and mind!
Elevating Schools, Empowering Communities, Honoring Legacy: Activate Good Dignity Week
Martin Luther King Jr. Day is more than a federal holiday—it’s a call to action. While MLK Day is officially observed on the third Monday of January, Activate Good amplifies this day of service into Dignity Week: a week-long opportunity, Friday, Jan. 17 to Saturday, Jan. 25, to honor Dr. King’s legacy by addressing pressing needs in the Greater Triangle’s most underserved neighborhoods.
This year, their eLOVEate Schools projects take center stage. These projects support Title 1 schools in Wake County with beautification, essential resources, and community engagement. They focus on creating welcoming environments where students and educators can thrive.
They are offering nearly a dozen volunteer opportunities across the Triangle in partnership with local community organizations. See how you can get involved!