Dust off those fancy hats—it’s Derby time! Join Dram & Draught for their annual Kentucky Derby Watch Party on Saturday, May 3, from 3-8 p.m. Celebrate the “greatest two minutes in sports” with festive Derby drink specials (hello, Mint Juleps and bourbon!), a live DJ, best hat and dressed competitions, and plenty of Derby-day fun. Cheers!
Juleps & Jazz? Count Me In!
Looking for even more Derby-day excitement? Head to the Watts & Ward Derby Soirée—the most stylish celebration in town! On Saturday, May 3, from 4-8 p.m., step into Southern elegance at this vintage-inspired event featuring live jazz, classic Derby cocktails, chic giveaways, and the best hat and best dressed couple contest 😉. Dress to impress—prizes await! Whether you’re sipping Mint Juleps or swaying to the music, this soirée is full of timeless charm and festive flair. Tickets are $30 and include event access, live music, and entry into all giveaways. Don’t miss your chance to celebrate Derby Day in style—grab your ticket now!
Cinco de MALA!
Celebrate Cinco de Mayo with Mala Pata’s final pop-up before their restaurant opens mid-May at Gateway Plaza! On Monday, May 5, from 6–9 p.m., they’ll be serving up tacos and more at their new bar neighbor, Natural Science. The pop-up menu includes Chips and Salsa, Whipped Potato Flautas, Grilled Shrimp and Roasted Pork Tacos on fresh corn tortillas, and Macha Chicken Wings—plus beer and margs, naturally. Prices range from $5–$16. Don’t miss this last chance to taste what’s coming before the official opening! 🌮
Local Service Spotlight + Giveaway: Give Yourself (or Someone Else) the Gift of Time
Need your to-do list to disappear?
The Raleigh Weekend team is full of busy women. We have kids, we have t-ball, we have events, we have birthday parties, we have date nights, we have laundry, we have deadlines, we have meetings, we have dinner… In one way or another, we’re just like you—which is why we are so excited to partner with Consider It Done! for a special Mother’s Day giveaway that closes on Wednesday, May 7—just in time to treat yourself (or another amazing mom in your life)!
Because let’s be real, when it comes to Mother’s Day gifts:
Perfume – meh
Chocolates – meh
Flowers – meh
Free time, all of the laundry done, and a beautifully organized home – YES, PLEASE.
We’re giving one lucky winner the ultimate gift: time back. Register to win four hours of personal concierge/organizing service from Consider It Done! Personal Concierge Service before midnight on Wednesday, May 7. Their “Deluxe Organizing Package” is valued at $257 and comes with their famous free-of-charge “no judgment” telephone consultation and 30 free minutes of container shopping.
Friday Five: Sip, Stroll, Shop + Soak It All In
Raleigh (and Cary!) have a full calendar this weekend—and you’ve got plenty of ways to make the most of it. Whether you’re sipping your way through a coffee crawl, exploring local art, test-driving the latest rides, or shopping for native plants for a good cause, there’s something fresh and fun for everyone. Let’s dig into the good stuff together! 🌟👇
Start Your Engines: The NC International Auto Expo Rolls Into Town
Gear up for the 38th annual NC International Auto Expo, rolling into the NC State Fairgrounds Friday, April 25–Sunday, April 27! From the newest makes and models to two ride & drive tracks, there’s plenty for car lovers to explore. Check out the Wake Tech student competition, and don’t miss Sunday’s Cars & Coffee Morrisville meet-up. Bonus: Grab a Family 4-Pack of tickets for just $20.
Plug In, Plant On: Native Plant Sale & Recycling Day in West Raleigh
It’s a one-stop feel-good Sunday, April 27, at the Native Plant Sale + Recycling Event hosted by Seven Oaks and the Beeloved Community Garden. Bring anything with a plug to recycle responsibly, shop native plants to beautify your space, and enter to win gorgeous patio pots in the raffle. Don’t miss the youth-led silent auction supporting a mission trip to Madagascar—and definitely come hungry for Che Empanadas (you’ll thank us later).
Art, Earth & Entertainment: Spring Daze Returns to Bond Park
Make a day of it in Cary at the beloved Spring Daze Arts & Crafts Festival, blooming into Bond Park on Saturday, April 26, from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. Featuring 170 North Carolina artists, this annual celebration brings together handmade goods, toe-tapping performances, family fun, and a strong nod to sustainability with Earth Day programming woven throughout. From kids’ crafts to food trucks, there’s truly something for everyone—and admission is completely free!