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.
Happy Friday, Raleigh! With these gorgeous September nights, what better way to enjoy the city than with live music, good vibes, and a little adventure? From soulful crooners and epic scores to country sing-alongs, hip-hop throwbacks, and even a chance to tour Raleigh’s dreamiest homes on a trolley… this weekend (and beyond) is packed with absolute bangers.
Without further ado, here’s your Friday Five ✨ live music edition ✨!
Get ready to see some of Raleigh’s most stunning homes—trolley style! We’re giving away two tickets to Raleigh Weekend’s first-ever Raleigh Dream Homes Trolley Tour on Sunday, Oct. 19, from 1–4 p.m.
Hop aboard The Great Raleigh Trolley for a guided ride through four custom-built Midtown and ITB homes. Along the way, enjoy trivia, bingo, and chances to win prizes. Seats are limited to just 24, so this event will sell out fast—but why wait when you could win your way in?
🎟 Enter to win by Tuesday, Sept. 30.
It’s soul meets country under the Raleigh skyline. ✨ Leon Bridges and Charley Crockett bring The Crooner & The Cowboy tour to Red Hat Amphitheater on Friday, Sept. 12, at 7 p.m.—joined by the vibrant sounds of Reyna Tropical.
Smooth vocals, Texas grit, and rhythms that make you move—all in one night. Grab your friends, grab your tickets, and soak it all in at one of Raleigh’s best outdoor stages.
📍 Red Hat Amphitheater
💸 Ticket prices vary; choose the option that’s right for you.
🗓 Friday, Sept. 12 · 7 p.m.
It’s movie magic, live at the Lenovo Center on Friday, Sept. 12, at 8 p.m.! From The Lion King to Inception, Gladiator to Dune—and yes, even a swashbuckling ride through Pirates of the Caribbean—Hans Zimmer’s most iconic scores are brought to life in an epic concert experience. Zimmer himself won’t be on stage, but his vision is everywhere—curated, produced, and directed for a night of unforgettable music. Grab your tickets and get ready to feel every note. 🎼
📍 Lenovo Center
💸 Ticket prices vary; choose the option that’s right for you.
🗓 Friday, Sept. 12 · 8 p.m.
And we’re back at Red Hat Amphitheater for some country tunes, folks! 🤠 Country’s heartland comes alive as Billy Currington joins forces with Kip Moore (with special guest Marlon Funaki) for a night of sing-alongs, acoustic moments, and boots-out under-the-stars energy on Saturday, Sept. 13, at 7 p.m. Hits like “People Are Crazy,” “Something ‘Bout a Truck,” “Hey Pretty Girl,” and more will echo across the amphitheater. Whether you’re sipping a cold one, rocking your favorite boots, or just here for the songs—this night is made for country lovers. Grab your tickets and let Raleigh feel that country charm.
📍 Red Hat Amphitheater
💸 Ticket prices vary; choose the option that’s right for you.
🗓 Saturday, Sept. 13 · 7 p.m.
Get ready to rewind and rage—Nelly brings the Where The Party At Tour to Raleigh with Ja Rule, Eve, Chingy, Jermaine Dupri, and more on Saturday, Sept. 13, at Coastal Credit Union Music Park at Walnut Creek at 7:30 p.m. We’re talking “Hot in Herre,” “Dilemma,” “Ride wit Me”—all your favorites plus those surprise moments only live shows deliver. Whether you were bumping Country Grammar back in the day or just want a night of feel-good hip-hop vibes, this is the one. Grab your tickets, warm up your voice, and let’s turn Walnut Creek into a party!
📍 Coastal Credit Union Music Park at Walnut Creek
💸 Ticket prices vary; choose the option that’s right for you.
🗓 Saturday, Sept. 13 · 7:30 p.m.
Experience a night of magic with The Lumineers on their Automatic World Tour live at Coastal Credit Union Music Park at Walnut Creek on Tuesday, Sept. 16, at 7:30 p.m. Whether you’ve been singing along since “Ho Hey” or you’re just ready for a night of big choruses and heartfelt lyrics, this is the gig for you. I’ll see you there! 😉
📍 Coastal Credit Union Music Park at Walnut Creek
💸 Ticket prices vary; choose the option that’s right for you.
🗓 Tuesday, Sept. 16 · 7:30 p.m.
Fall’s rolling in hot—and so is Raleigh. From live music to haunted tours, getting paid to dine out, late-night Sundays at PR, and a giveaway that could land you on a trolley with cocktails in hand… this weekend is anything but boring.
Without further ado, here is your Friday Five.
