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.
Sunday, May 25, is National Wine Day—so if you’ve been looking for a reason to stop by Raleigh Wine Shop, this is your sign. We’re celebrating by giving away a $25 gift card to one of our favorite local gems.
Enter by Saturday, May 31, for your chance to win. Cheers to good wine and even better weekends!
Mulino has brought back a fan-favorite tradition—Wine Wednesdays! If you know, you know. Mulino’s iconic wine tastings are back every Wednesday from 5 until 7 p.m., and they’re just as good as you remember—and still totally complimentary. It’s the perfect way to ease into your evening with a few sips of Italian wine in a relaxed, no-pressure setting.
It’s time to cheer on the Bunch of Jerks once again! While the Canes will be out of town, they still need the home crowd’s energy—so grab your gear and head to one of the top local spots to watch the game. Earlier this month, The News & Observer rounded up the best bars for catching Canes games, and one of my personal favorites, Players Retreat, made the list.
Start making your Saturday night plans now—puck drops at 8 p.m. on Saturday, May 24. Let’s Go Canes! 🏒🔥
Head to Midtown Park in North Hills on Saturday, May 24, from 4 until 9 p.m. for an evening packed with over 30 local shops, tasty food trucks, and drinks from Williamson Mead and Brewing. It’s the perfect chance to support small businesses, grab some dinner, and soak up the lively, family-friendly atmosphere—all under the glow of the night sky. Best of all? Entry is totally free. Get ready to shop, snack, and chill at the Night Market at North Hills!
NC Sugar Rush returns to Downtown Raleigh on Sunday, May 25, from noon until 6 p.m. at City Plaza for six sweet hours dedicated to satisfying every craving. From Italian ice and pineapple smoothies to funnel cakes, cookies, vegan treats, mini donuts, and more—this dessert lover’s dream has something for everyone, even your furry friends. With a live DJ and performances setting the vibe, you’ll be dancing your way through the sugar high and coming back for seconds. Bring your appetite and your sweet tooth—Raleigh’s ultimate dessert festival is back.
Watts & Ward is turning eight, and the celebration promises to be as bold and timeless as the cocktails that built its legacy. On Friday, May 30, from 8 until 11 p.m., guests are invited to head underground for a night of live music from Mellowsweels, classic cocktails, and the kind of energy only this vibrant community can bring. Whether you’re a longtime regular or a recent discovery, this evening is dedicated to everyone who’s helped shape the last eight years. Mark your calendar, dress to impress, and get ready to raise a glass to the past—and everything still to come.
Party like it’s 1925 this summer as Carolina Beach celebrates 100 years. The
Centennial Celebration runs through September, with nostalgic fun like the “100
Summers of Style” exhibit, self-guided sculpture and “Then & Now” tours and the iconic
Carolina Beach Music Festival. Explore local history, enjoy menu specials at 20+
restaurants and catch the Centennial Flotilla. The CB Centennial is a homecoming
celebration like no other. You just have to be there!
This featured getaway is a paid promotion with Wilmington and Beaches Convention & Visitors Bureau. We work with partners we trust and value and are excited to share these updates with you! These partners help us deliver our weekly newsletters at no cost to you!
Wine? Check. Fair food and made-in-the-Carolinas goodness? Check. Flowers? Check! Tequila? Check! If your schedule and your budget allow, we highly suggest making plans to check out all of these happenings this weekend and next. That’s why you’re here in the Capital City after all, right?
