Raleigh Weekend

The Local's Guide to Things to Do in Raleigh, NC

Your Weekend Guide to Raleigh

Your go-to weekend cheat sheet for Raleigh. Think of it like having a well-informed friend pointing out the coolest shows, food popups, and reason-to-get-out-of-bed plans — all tailored to what’s happening locally this weekend.

Because We Could All Use a Little Dolly in Our Lives…

By Leave a Comment

This weekend, Dolly Parton’s iconic music takes center stage in Threads: My Songs in Symphony, an immersive multimedia experience that brings her storytelling to life through orchestrated arrangements. While Dolly appears on screen (not in person), audiences can expect a captivating journey through her greatest hits—including “Jolene,” “Coat of Many Colors,” and “I Will Always Love You”—plus personal favorites and a yet-to-be-released selection from her upcoming Broadway musical.

📅 Saturday, Nov. 22, at 3 p.m.
📍 Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts—Raleigh, NC
💸 Tickets from $62.24

Ready for a little Dolly magic? ✨ Grab your tickets and enjoy this symphonic celebration of her legendary career.

Now and Next Weekend: Figulina’s Hosting a Traditional Italian Piedmont Bagna Càuda Feast

By Leave a Comment

Figulina is bringing a beloved Northern Italian tradition to downtown with a communal Bagna Càuda feast on the weekends before and after Thanksgiving. Expect a bubbling “hot bath” of anchovy, garlic, and olive oil served with curated charcuterie, crisp crudités, and plenty of wine—all shared around a cozy, communal table.

📅 Dates & Times: Nov. 21, 22, 28 & 29; Two seatings each night: 5 p.m. & 7 p.m.
💸 Tickets: $95 per person – A portion of each ticket supports the Food Bank of Central and Eastern North Carolina. Reservations available via Resy.
📍 Location: Figulina — 317 S. Harrington St., Raleigh

Clash on the Ice: Tar Heels vs. Icepack for the Governor’s Cup

By Leave a Comment

On Sunday, one of college hockey’s fiercest rivalries is back in Raleigh as the UNC Tar Heels take on the N.C. State Icepack for the Governor’s Cup. Expect a packed audience, high-energy gameplay, and all the bragging rights on the line at the Lenovo Center.

📅 Sunday, Nov. 23—5 p.m.
📍 Lenovo Center—Raleigh, NC
💸 Tickets start at $14

Grab your seats and get ready for a showdown that college hockey fans won’t want to miss. 🏒🔥

Plan Ahead: Tour the Restored George Matsumoto House in December

By Leave a Comment

NC Modernist is hosting special timed tours of the beautifully restored George Matsumoto House in West Raleigh on Saturday, Dec. 20, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. This incredible mid-century modern home—once identified as endangered—was saved and relocated to West Raleigh in January 2024. Now fully restored, it’s a rare chance to experience the work of one of North Carolina’s most significant architects up close.

📅 Saturday, Dec. 20 • 9 a.m.–3 p.m.
📍 George Matsumoto House, West Raleigh
💸 $14.95 timed-entry tickets or $21 VIP anytime-entry ticket

Friday Five: Hello Darkness Our Old Friend 🌚

By Leave a Comment

The clocks might have turned back and the sun now sets at 5 p.m. (*sigh*), but we’re here to reassure you can and should still venture out of the house into the darkness to take advantage of a host of happenings taking place around town this weekend. And for those who are already ready for the holidays (sorry, Thanksgiving), there’s some Christmas magic in store as well. Grab your flashlights—here’s your Friday Five!

But First… Santa’s Coming to Town

By Leave a Comment

That’s right, The Great Raleigh Trolley’s Santa Express is rolling into Raleigh—and we’re giving away four tickets! The jolly ride is filled with Christmas cheer, story time, and a special visit from Saint Nick himself. Visit their website to view available Santa Express dates (running Saturday, Dec. 6–Tuesday, Dec. 23, primarily on weekends). The winner will be contacted directly to book their four tickets based on availability.

Hop aboard this holiday adventure through the heart of Raleigh and make some merry memories along the way. Enter by Sunday, Nov. 30, for your chance to win!

It’s Movie Night—Grab the Popcorn 🍿

By Leave a Comment

Everyone’s favorite child psychic, Matilda, is hitting the big screen at the NC Museum of Art for a family movie night on Friday, Nov. 14. Arrive early for pre-movie activities like magical art making and sweet treats, then settle in for Matilda’s adventures navigating her callous family, kind schoolteacher, and sadistic headmistress.

🗓️ Friday, Nov. 14 | 6–8:45 p.m.
📍NCMA SECU Auditorium
💸 $12.87

For the Thrill of the Hunt

By Leave a Comment

Calling all treasure hunters! Hunt & Gather is hosting its annual Holiday Open House Friday, Nov. 14–Sunday, Nov. 16, during which you’ll be able to find and save on unique gifts for everyone on your list (and maybe some for yourselves too!)—plus shop special holiday decor to turn your home into a winter wonderland—over three whole days. ‘Tis the season!

🗓️ Friday, Nov. 14–Sunday, Nov. 16
📍Hunt & Gather, 1910 Bernard St.
💸 Gift, decor, furniture, and more for purchase