Raise a glass to 14 years of sipping and sharing at The Raleigh Wine Shop’s anniversary bash on Saturday, May 17! Enjoy free tastings all day, food from Alimentari from 1–4 p.m., plus jello shots and exclusive merch. Wines will be on sale all week, with a portion of proceeds benefiting The Women’s Center of Wake County. While you’re reading this, don’t forget to register here for your chance to win this month’s giveaway, hosted by us… a $25 Raleigh Wine Shop gift card!
Funnel Cakes + Ferris Wheels on Deck… The Got to Be NC Festival Returns
Celebrate North Carolina’s finest at this three-day festival (Friday, May 16, through Sunday, May 18) packed with local food, live music, a full carnival, and a “Homegrown Marketplace” of NC-made goods. The rides are nostalgic, the eats are fried, and admission is free. Bring the fam or come hungry and curious. Admission is free at the NC State Fairgrounds!
Stop and Smell the Rare Blooms at Juniper Level
This hidden gem only opens to the public a few times a year—and it’s peak season now. Explore 28 acres of curated plantings, rare blooms, and winding garden paths at the Juniper Level Botanic Garden. Admission is free; donations appreciated. Plant lovers, bring your camera and your curiosity. The garden is open Friday, May 16, through Sunday, May 18, closing to the public again until July.
Inspired by the Garden? Get Your Hands Dirty (Sort of) at This Workshop Next Week
If you find yourself so inspired after wandering the Juniper Level gardens this weekend, plan to join Southern Picnics and Fleur La La at The Outdoor Cottage at Atlantic Gardening for a hands-on evening of floral design on Thursday, May 22, at 6 p.m. For $130, you’ll learn the art of floral arrangement, crafting your own garden-inspired centerpiece to take home under the expert guidance of Katie Lynn, owner of Fleur La La and recent Art in Bloom featured florist. While designing your centerpiece, enjoy a refreshing Elderflower or Lavender Prosecco spritz, a delicate concoction that complements the floral theme of the evening.
Also Looking Ahead… Get to Know Tequila on a Thursday
To celebrate National Paloma Day, Raleigh’s Wolfe & Porter is offering a two-hour Tequila Ocho cocktail class at 7 p.m. on Thursday, May 22. Learn about tequila; enjoy pours of Plata, Reposado, and Anejo; and then participate in a hands-on demo to make a Tequila Ocho Paloma that you will get to enjoy! Tickets are a reasonable $44.52 per guest, so you just might see me there, friends. I’m definitely leaning into my Tequila Era this season!
Friday Five: Ladies and Gentlemen, HER ✨
It’s Mother’s Day weekend (there’s your heads up if you forgot!), and if your mom’s not a regular mom, but a cool mom, you’re gonna want to spend time with her in the coolest way possible on Sunday. Whether you’re a mama looking to treat yourself or you’re looking for a unique way to celebrate the mothers in your life—or you just need some good weekend plans!—here are some fun events happening around town this weekend.
But First… Where There’s Wine, There’s a Way 🍷
In honor of National Wine Day on Sunday, May 25, we’re giving away a $25 gift card to one of our favorite local gems, Raleigh Wine Shop! (P.S. This would make a great late Mother’s Day gift!) Enter below by Saturday, May 31, for your chance to win. Cheers!
Craft It Up With a Paint & Sip 🎨
Let your creative flag fly at Joy Worthy Co.’s Mother’s Day Paint & Sip on Sunday, May 11, where you’ll be guided through drawing a still-life of a floral bouquet while enjoying macarons, tea cakes, and other treats—plus a cocktail/mocktail bar and tea station. No previous art experience necessary!