📰 In the news

Crossover week shakeups: Dozens of North Carolina bills cleared a key legislative deadline last week — but thanks to budget maneuvers and exceptions, others remain in play. From raw milk debates to Lake Norman oversight, here’s how everything’s playing out. 

Wake DA won’t run again: After more than a decade as Wake County’s top prosecutor, Lorrin Freeman announced she will not seek reelection in 2026. She pledged to finish her term and reflected on her time in office as a “tremendous honor.” Read the full story here.

RDU drops a route, adds Key West: Avelo Airlines is scrapping its nonstop flight from Raleigh-Durham to Nassau amid economic concerns and shifting demand — but sunny skies aren’t entirely off the map. The airline will launch a new route to Key West instead. Details on the switch here.

Other highlights this week:

• New Andy’s location coming to midtown
• Peyote mini bar set to open May 14th
• Planning commission removes two members
• Tee off for veterans at this golf fundraiser
• Raise funds with fellow Pearl Jam fans
• Shop local to aid rescue pets
• Score deals at this multi-home yard sale

✨ We got your back

Shake it off: Today’s World Cocktail Day, and The Blind Barbour is the place to raise a glass. Whether you’re a classic martini type, a fan of a good old fashioned, or after something that doesn’t taste like it’s 80 proof, their cozy atmosphere and generous pours never disappoint.

Say yes to the best: There are mozzarella sticks… and then there are Raleigh Times‘ mozzarella sticks. They crunch on the outside (hello, hand breaded), pack allll the flavor on the inside, and are served just hot enough to remind you why patience is a virtue.

Level up your wardrobe: Closet feeling a little “eh”? Unlikely Professionals is your upgrade button. Whether you’re hunting down graphic tees, vintage gems, unique pieces you won’t find anywhere else, or a jacket that magically makes you look cooler, they’ve got the goods.

Stare at some trees: Overwhelmed? Burnt out? Tired of sitting in front of a screen? Durant Nature Preserve is the go-to spot for powering down, quieting your mind, and appreciating how the sun shines through the trees. Best part? It costs nothing (except time and fuel to get there).

👀 Why just read it when you could be in it?

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🔔Coming soon

Wu-Tang Forever | June 7th

Since Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers) dropped in ’93, the crew has been rewriting the rules of hip-hop with razor-sharp verses, kung-fu samples, and a discography so deep it pretty much needs its own zip code.

Expect a full-force family reunion on stage as the crew digs into group classics, solo gems like Liquid Swords and Only Built 4 Cuban Linx…, and a tribute to the ever-iconic Ol’ Dirty Bastard. This isn’t just a concert — it’s a living, breathing chapter of music history. Snag your tickets here.

10th Annual International Food Fest | June 7th

In just a few weeks, downtown will turn into a giant global block party with over 120 food and dessert trucks repping 60+ cultures. Add in wine, beer, and non-stop music across two stages, and you’ve got yourself an all-day international adventure with a side of dance party.

Bring the kids, bring the dog, and definitely bring your appetite. Admission’s free, but you’ll want to grab your free ticket in advance.

📆 Around town

All events are subject to change without notice. Please check official event pages and social media for the most up to date information.

Know of an event we should include? Submit it here for free.

This week

🎸 Pearl Jam – Dark Matter US Tour 2025 @ Lenovo Center | Today (5/13) at 7:30 pm – Eddie Vedder and the gang are bringing the Dark Matter thunder to Raleigh, and it’s going to be loud. Expect a night of grunge glory, new tracks, and the kind of live energy only Pearl Jam can deliver. If you know, you know — and if you don’t, now’s the time.

🎨 NCMA After Hours @ NC Art Museum | Thursday (5/15) at 5 pm – Clock out and wander in — the NCMA stays open late for art, music, and mellow vibes. Explore two powerful exhibitions for free, sip on something tasty, snack on tapas, and catch local artists doing their thing in the Exhibition Store. Whether it’s a date night or solo escape, this is your ticket to a refined after-work recharge.

🌴 Midtown Beach Music @ Midtown Park | Thursday (5/15) at 6 pm – The 16th season of Raleigh’s favorite beach music series rolls on with The Chairmen of the Board bringing the boogie. Grab your crew, lawn chairs, and maybe a cold drink — it’s live tunes, warm breezes, and nothing but good vibes at Midtown Park.

🎻 The String Cheese Incident With The Wood Brothers @ Red Hat Amphitheater | Friday (5/16) at 6 pm – Jam legends The String Cheese Incident are teaming up with The Wood Brothers for a night of roots, groove, and serious musical magic. If you like your concerts outdoors, under the stars, and full of improvisation, this one’s a no-brainer. Bring your dancing shoes — or just go barefoot.

🍸 Cocktails & Crepes Cooking Class @ Simply Crepes Craft Kitchen | Friday (5/16) at 6 pm – Shake, stir, flip, and drizzle your way through this hands-on evening of French flair. You’ll craft a seasonal cocktail and a signature dessert crepe, all while learning the sweet history behind them. Bonus: extra snacks, drinks, and coffee are up for grabs if you’re feeling extra indulgent.

🕹️ Adult Nights: Game On! @ North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences | Friday (5/16) at 6:30 pm – It’s game night… but with dinosaurs and cocktails. This 21+ takeover of the museum is packed with board games, video game battles, interactive science stations, and maybe a few nerdy side-quests. Grab your squad, flash your ID, and get ready to button mash your way to victory (or just vibe with a themed drink in hand).

This weekend

🚘 28th British Classic Car Show @ Hendrick Center for Automotive Excellence | Saturday (5/17) at 9 am – Polished chrome, vintage charm, and over 125 British beauties all in one place. This long-running car show is free to spectators and supports the Food Bank of Central and Eastern NC, so bring some canned goods and your camera.

🌸 Thrive Motherhood Spring Market @ Lafayette Village Raleigh | Saturday (5/17) at 9 am – It’s spring fling season, and this family-friendly pop-up has it all: free activities, local vendors for last-minute Mother’s Day finds, and character visits courtesy of Enchanted Wishes.

🐖 Carolina Pig Jig (XVIII) @ Got to Be NC Festival | Saturday (5/17) at 11 am – Come hungry and ready to vote — 28 BBQ teams are throwing down for the People’s Choice crown, and your taste buds are the judges. It’s all-you-can-eat barbecue, hush puppies, slaw, and sweet bribes like lemonade and dessert. Pro tip: get there early before the best bites are gone. All proceeds go to support local children’s charities, so you can eat well and feel good doing it.

🍉 Melon Pop Watermelon Field Day @ Raleigh Brewing | Saturday (5/17) at 12 pm – Watermelon is the moment. Raleigh Brewing is throwing down with watermelon sorbet IPAs, seltzers, hoisting contests, and even a watermelon eating competition. Toss in live music and a vendor market, and you’ve got peak summer energy in one juicy afternoon.

⚔️ Fight Knight Duels @ Tap Yard Raleigh | Saturday (5/17) at 12 pm – Swords, shields, and a whole lot of historical flair — the Fight Knight Duels are back. Watch local HEMA fighters clash in live exhibition bouts with polearms and more. Family-friendly games run noon to 3, but the real action kicks off at 3:30 — arrive early, pick your champion, and cheer like it’s the 14th century.

🥙 Raleigh Foodie Fare @ Moore Square | Sunday (5/18) at 11 am – Moore Square turns into a flavor-packed playground thanks to the MAKRS Society’s monthly foodie and art market. Expect a food truck rodeo, artisan bites, local art, and live jams to keep the vibe just right. Bring your appetite and your crew — this one’s all about good food, good music, and good company.

🐷 Gettin’ Piggy With It @ Maywood Hall & Garden | Sunday (5/18) at 1 pm – Award-winning BBQ, local brews, live music, and a whole lot of heart. This third-annual smoke fest celebrates 60 years of the Frankie Lemmon School, with all proceeds going to support kids of all abilities. Come hungry and leave happy — it’s BBQ for a cause, and it doesn’t get better than that.

🍔 Food Truck Festival @ Brier Creek Corporate Center | Sunday (5/18) at 5 pm – Foodies, this one’s for you. Chow down on gourmet bites from global food trucks, jam to live music by SLEEPING BOOTY, and shop local art while the kids go wild in the play zone. It’s free to attend, full of flavor, and the perfect way to wrap up your weekend.

🎶 Live music & comedy

• 5/13 The Crane Wives @ Ritz Raleigh – 8 pm
• 5/13 Maribou State @ Lincoln Theatre – 8 pm
• 5/14 Hollywood Undead @ Ritz Raleigh – 7 pm
• 5/14 Quan @ Terminal 8 – 8:00 pm
• 5/15 Free Comedy Show @ Sneaky Penguin – 7:30 pm
• 5/16 The String Cheese Incident @ Red Hat Amphitheater – 6 pm
• 5/16 Ginger Billy @ Goodnights Comedy Club – 7 pm
• 5/16 Police & Thieves @ Saints and Scholars Pub – 7 pm
• 5/16 Nightrain and more @ Lincoln Theatre – 8 pm
• 5/16 Red Not Chili Peppers @ Bowstring – 7 pm
• 5/16 Nox Eternus and more @ Chapel of Bones – 8 pm
• 5/17 Teddy Swims @ Red Hat Amphitheater – 8 pm
• 5/17 Shot Thru The Heart @ Bowstring – 7 pm
• 5/17 Durand Bernarr @ Ritz Raleigh – 7 pm
• 5/17 Justin Abood Duo @ Raleigh Brewing – 12 pm
• 5/17 OTR @ Tin Roof Raleigh – 6:30 pm
• 5/18 Trivium @ Red Hat Amphitheater – 6 pm
• 5/18 Sleeping Booty @ Brier Creek Food Truck Festival – 5 pm
• 5/18 Live musicians @ Moore Square – 11 am
• 5/18 Greg McGann @ 1911 Sego Ct. – 4 pm

🏠 This house is wild

*This️ 👇️ could be your listing. Hit us up if you’ve got a home (or 12) to sell.

Listed by: Cindy Roberts (Merriment Realty)

This fully renovated 3 bed, 2 bath ranch in Raleigh’s Laurel Hills packs serious charm into its 1,880 square feet. Built in 1964 and set on a rare half-acre lot, it’s got gleaming hardwoods, a sleek modern kitchen (island, gas cooktop, stainless appliances), and a spa-worthy primary suite with a massive walk-in shower. The sunroom—heated, cooled, and not even counted in the square footage—is a year-round favorite.

Outside? A dreamy patio with fireplace and fenced yard. New roof and HVAC in 2021, and no HOA to worry about. Just minutes to Crabtree, I-40, and downtown.

Window shopping is free — take a peek inside →