#doraleigh — Public Fediverse posts

City of Raleigh Government Guide September 7–8, 2026

The City of Raleigh begins the week with the Labor Day holiday on Monday, September 7, followed by a full schedule of public meetings on Tuesday, September 8.

Tuesday’s agenda includes the Raleigh Planning Commission, a City Council work session, the Arts Commission Executive Committee and an evening public-comment session.

Monday, September 7

Labor Day 2026

All day | City holiday

Labor Day is recognized as an official City of Raleigh holiday. Residents should anticipate possible changes to municipal office hours and City services.

No public meetings are listed for Monday.

Tuesday, September 8

Raleigh Planning Commission

9 a.m. | Boards and Commissions

The Planning Commission reviews planning, development and land-use matters before making recommendations to the Raleigh City Council.

Residents interested in rezonings, growth and neighborhood development may want to follow this meeting.

Raleigh City Council Work Session

4 p.m. | Council and Council Committee Meetings

City Council work sessions give council members an opportunity to receive presentations and hold detailed discussions about municipal policies and projects.

These sessions typically emphasize research and discussion rather than formal public hearings.

Arts Commission Executive Committee

5:30 p.m. | Boards and Commissions

The Arts Commission Executive Committee will meet to discuss matters related to Raleigh’s arts programs, cultural initiatives and creative community.

Raleigh City Council Public Comment

7 p.m. | Council and Council Committee Meetings

The evening public-comment session allows residents to address City Council about local issues and concerns.

Anyone planning to speak should review the City’s registration requirements, participation rules and meeting agenda before attending.

Stay Involved With Raleigh Government

Public meetings provide an important way for residents to follow decisions involving development, transportation, public services, arts funding and neighborhood priorities.

Schedules, locations and participation details may change. Residents should verify the latest information through the City of Raleigh’s official meeting calendar before attending.

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How to Make Sure Your Android Phone Is Secure in 2026

Android phones contain everything from personal photos and private conversations to banking information and account passwords. As online scams, malicious apps and phone theft become more sophisticated, reviewing the security features built into an Android device is increasingly important.

A recent Engadget guide to Android phone security⁠ highlights several practical steps users can take to protect their devices, accounts and personal information.

Keep Android and Your Apps Updated

Installing software updates is one of the easiest ways to improve Android security. Updates frequently include fixes for newly discovered vulnerabilities, along with enhanced privacy and theft-protection tools.

Users can generally check for Android updates by opening:

Settings > System > Software updates

Apps should also be updated regularly through the Google Play Store. Automatic updates can be enabled under the Play Store’s network preferences, while pending updates can be reviewed under Manage apps and device.

Because menu names may vary by phone manufacturer and Android version, users may need to search for “software update” inside the Settings app.

Protect Your Google Account

A Google account is connected to many of the phone’s most important features, including email, photos, contacts, backups and payment information. Engadget recommends enabling two-step verification so that a password alone cannot provide access to the account.

Two-step verification can be configured through the Google Account’s Security & sign-in section.

Android users should also enable automatic backups. A recent backup can make it much easier to recover contacts, messages, photos, settings and other important information if a phone is damaged, lost or stolen.

Set Up Find Hub Before the Phone Goes Missing

Google’s Find Hub service can help users locate, ring, lock or erase a missing Android device. However, the necessary settings should be checked before the phone disappears.

Users should confirm that location services are active and that the phone is allowed to be located through Find Hub. The service can then be accessed from another phone, tablet or computer.

Backing up the device and activating Find Hub together provides a stronger recovery plan: Find Hub helps locate or secure the missing phone, while the backup protects the information stored on it.

Turn On Android’s Scam-Protection Features

Android includes tools designed to identify suspicious calls and text messages. Google’s Scam Detection feature analyzes certain conversations for patterns commonly associated with scams, including fraudulent job offers and romance schemes.

Call Scam Detection is not available on every Android phone. Engadget reports that the feature is currently available on supported Google Pixel devices, with expansion to additional phones planned.

Google Messages also offers spam and scam protection for conversations involving people outside the user’s contact list. When suspicious activity is detected, Android may display a warning and provide options to block or report the sender.

These tools can help, but no automated detection system is perfect. Users should remain cautious when callers or messages request money, passwords, verification codes or immediate action.

Review App Permissions

Android apps may request access to a phone’s location, microphone, camera, contacts, photos, messages, calendar or health information. Some permissions are necessary, but others may have little connection to an app’s actual purpose.

Permissions can typically be reviewed by opening:

Settings > Security & privacy > Privacy > Permission manager

Users can review permissions by category or inspect individual apps. A navigation app may reasonably require location access, for example, while a basic card game probably does not need access to contacts or text messages.

Android can also pause permissions and activity for apps that have not been used for an extended period. Enabling this option helps prevent forgotten apps from continuing to access personal information in the background.

Reduce Advertising Tracking

Android provides privacy controls that allow users to limit how their activity is used for personalized advertising. These options may include ad topics, app-suggested advertisements and ad measurement.

The controls can generally be found under:

Settings > Google > All services > Privacy & security > Ads > Ads privacy

Users can disable individual advertising features, remove selected topics or opt out of personalized advertising more broadly. Changing these settings will not eliminate advertisements, but it can reduce the amount of personal data used to customize them.

Keep Google Play Protect Enabled

Google Play Protect scans apps for malware, harmful behavior and potentially unsafe data practices. It also periodically checks apps already installed on the device.

Users can verify that the feature is active by opening the Google Play Store and selecting:

Profile icon > Play Protect > Settings

Engadget advises keeping Play Protect enabled. People who install apps from outside the Google Play Store face additional risks because those apps may not have passed Google’s standard security reviews. Android users who do not need to sideload apps should generally avoid doing so.

Activate Android Theft Protection

Newer Android devices include several features designed to protect personal information after a phone is taken. Depending on the device, these protections may include:

• Theft Detection Lock: Uses motion and connection signals to detect a possible snatch-and-run theft.
• Offline Device Lock: Locks the screen when someone takes the device offline.
• Failed Authentication Lock: Responds to repeated unsuccessful attempts to unlock the phone.
• Identity Check: Requires biometric verification before sensitive security settings can be changed.
• Remote Lock: Allows an eligible phone to be locked remotely using its verified phone number.

These tools can usually be found under:

Settings > Google > All services > Personal & device safety > Theft protection

Feature availability may depend on the phone model, manufacturer, region and installed version of Android.

Final Android Security Checklist

Android users can improve their phone security by completing a few essential tasks:

1. Install all available Android and app updates.
2. Enable two-step verification for the connected Google account.
3. Turn on automatic backups and Find Hub.
4. Activate available scam and spam protections.
5. Remove unnecessary app permissions.
6. Review personalized advertising settings.
7. Confirm that Google Play Protect is running.
8. Enable Android’s theft-protection features.

No security setting can stop every threat, but using these protections together can substantially reduce the risk of account theft, malicious apps, invasive tracking and data loss.

For the complete instructions and additional details, read Alec Hively’s original article: How to Make Sure Your Android Phone Is Secure on Engadget⁠.

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Raleigh City Council Meeting Recap – Teen Curfew, Flock Cameras, Rezoning and Raleigh’s First Poet Laureate

The Raleigh City Council’s August 18, 2026, meeting included a lengthy discussion of a proposed youth curfew, an update on police use of Flock surveillance cameras, several major land-use decisions and the introduction of Raleigh’s first Poet Laureate.

Council members also advanced changes intended to encourage more childcare facilities, approved several annexation and rezoning cases and scheduled multiple public hearings for September.

One of the meeting’s most closely watched issues was the proposed curfew for people under 18. The draft ordinance is expected to return to the City Council on September 15, when residents will have an opportunity to comment.

Proposed Raleigh Teen Curfew Moves Toward September Hearing

During the work session, City staff presented an update on Raleigh’s past, current and planned engagement with youth, teenagers and young adults.

The joint presentation included representatives from the City’s Community Engagement Department, Raleigh Parks, Recreation and Cultural Resources and the Raleigh Police Department. Staff also outlined possible operational and program improvements designed to strengthen youth engagement.

Council members then resumed their discussion of a proposed Youth Protection and Curfew Ordinance. The Council directed the City Attorney to draft the ordinance during its July 7 meeting following public safety concerns connected to July 4 incidents.

Raleigh Police Chief Rico Boyce noted that teenagers were involved in the July 4 shootings as either victims or alleged perpetrators.

Under the proposed ordinance, people younger than 18 would generally be prohibited from being in public places between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. A variety of exceptions could apply, including:

• Traveling to or from work
• Responding to an emergency
• Attending a concert or sporting event
• Participating in the North Carolina State Fair
• Attending another approved public event
• Other circumstances covered by the ordinance

During an encounter, a Raleigh police officer would be required to verify the person’s age and determine whether an exemption applied.

Council members raised questions about whether a curfew would address Raleigh’s public safety problems, whether enforcement could contribute to racial profiling and what unintended consequences other communities have experienced after adopting similar laws.

City officials emphasized that a curfew, if ultimately approved, would be only one part of Raleigh’s broader public safety and youth engagement strategy.

The proposed ordinance will be available through the City of Raleigh website. The City Attorney and City Manager recommended bringing it back to the Council on September 15 to allow time for public review and comment.

Johnny Lee Chapman III Named Raleigh’s First Poet Laureate

The August 18 meeting also included a historic cultural announcement.

Johnny Lee Chapman III was introduced as Raleigh’s first Poet Laureate. Chapman will serve a two-year term from 2026 through 2028.

During his appointment, Chapman will serve as an ambassador for Raleigh’s literary and creative communities. The position is intended to encourage residents to read, write, perform and develop a greater appreciation for poetry and the spoken word.

The appointment adds a new public voice to Raleigh’s growing arts and cultural community.

Public Comment Covers Curfew, Surveillance and Development

Public comments addressed several issues affecting Raleigh residents, including:

• The proposed teen curfew
• Police surveillance cameras
• Rezoning case Z-43-25
• Infrastructure needs
• Raleigh’s greenway system
• Water restrictions
• The City’s noise ordinance
• Raleigh’s permit parking program

Forty people registered to speak, but eight were not present when called. The remaining speakers were allotted one minute each, resulting in many speakers being cut off before completing their comments.

Raleigh Police Discusses Use of Flock Cameras

Chief Boyce provided the Council with an update on the Raleigh Police Department’s use of Flock license plate reader cameras.

Flock cameras can record vehicle information, including license plate numbers, to help law enforcement investigate crimes and locate vehicles connected to active cases.

Boyce emphasized that safeguards govern the department’s use of the system. He also told the Council that Raleigh police do not provide Flock camera information to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

The update came as residents and Council members continued discussing surveillance, privacy and the appropriate use of public safety technology.

Council Advances Childcare Facility Amendments

The Council unanimously authorized staff to move forward with a proposed text change intended to make it easier to create additional childcare facilities in Raleigh.

The Daycare Amendments could include zoning changes and possible economic incentives. More detailed recommendations will return to the Council as the text-change process moves forward.

The decision reflects growing concerns about childcare availability as Raleigh’s population and workforce continue to expand.

Data Center Annexation Request Withdrawn

A controversial annexation request involving property at 3101 Jones Sausage Road was withdrawn by the applicant.

The AX-09-26 petition involved land inside Raleigh’s extraterritorial jurisdiction and generated significant opposition related to the possibility of a data center being developed on the site.

Mayor Pro Tem Jonathan Melton Harrison requested that the City make a public summary available explaining Raleigh’s process for reviewing and making decisions about potential data center developments.

Three other annexation petitions were approved:

• AX-07-26: 2900 Barrington Drive in District C
• AX-14-26: 5700 Fox Road in District B
• AX-44-25: Properties at 12301 and 7652 Leesville Road and 3321 Shady Grove Road in District E

The AX-44-25 annexation was approved by a 6-2 vote, with Councilors Christina Jones and Megan Patton opposed.

The Council held open the AX-06-26 annexation request for 4424 Mitchell Mill Road for two weeks. The applicant had requested a longer delay to gather additional information about potential costs, but the Council unanimously approved Patton’s motion for a two-week extension.

Raleigh City Council Rezoning Decisions

Council members considered several significant rezoning cases during the August 18 meeting.

Heck Street Rezoning Denied

Rezoning case Z-39-25 involved 319 Heck Street near the intersection of Heck Street, Idlewild Avenue and Oakwood Avenue in District C.

The Council split 4-4 on the request. Councilors Corey Branch, Jonathan Melton Harrison, Christina Jones and James Bledsoe Forte voted against the rezoning. Mayor Janet Cowell and Councilors Mitchell Silver, Stormie Forte Lambert-Melton and Megan Patton voted in favor.

Because the motion did not receive a majority, the existing zoning remains unchanged. The applicant may submit another request in the future.

Leesville Road Rezoning Approved

Rezoning Z-54-25 covered properties at 12301 and 7652 Leesville Road and 3321 Shady Grove Road near the Durham-Wake County line.

The Council approved the case 6-2, with Councilors Jones and Patton voting against it.

North Boylan Avenue Rezoning Approved

Rezoning Z-16-26 for 308 North Boylan Avenue was unanimously approved. The property is located at the southwest corner of North Boylan Avenue and North Street in District D.

The approval also removes the property from the Neighborhood Conservation Overlay District.

Two Rezoning Hearings Held Open

The public hearing for Z-51-25, covering 4804 and 4808 Spring Forest Road, will remain open until September 1 so the applicant can submit new zoning conditions.

The applicant for Z-08-26, involving 5525 and 5605 Rock Quarry Road, also agreed to continue the case until September 1 to allow additional discussion of proposed conditions.

Comprehensive Plan and School Lot Changes Approved

The Council unanimously approved Comprehensive Plan Amendment CP-01-26 for the Old Crews Road area between Buffaloe Road and Old Milburnie Road in District B.

Council members also approved Text Change TC-1-26, known as the School Lot Area Amendment. The amendment addresses development standards affecting school properties.

Property Nuisance and Housing Actions

The Council unanimously authorized the City to board up an unfit property at 2725 Poole Road in Raleigh’s extraterritorial jurisdiction.

Public nuisance abatement actions were also unanimously approved for the following properties:

• 660 Coleman Street
• 1011 Oberlin Road
• 900 Peyton Street
• 4117 St. James Church Road
• 813 North West Street

September Raleigh Rezoning Hearings

Several development cases will return for public hearings in September.

Cases scheduled for September 1 include:

• Z-9-26: 5925 Glenwood Avenue in District E
• Z-18-26: 6904 and 0 Poole Road in District C
• Z-14-26: Gorman Street Assemblage in District D
• Z-19-25: 405 and 416 Dorothea Drive in District D
• Z-51-25: 4804 and 4808 Spring Forest Road in District B
• Z-08-26: 5525 and 5605 Rock Quarry Road in District C

Cases scheduled for September 15 include:

• Z-17-26: Hillsborough Street and Western Boulevard in District D
• Z-12-26: Rock Quarry Road near Wall Store Road in District C

The proposed teen curfew ordinance is also expected to return on September 15.

Mid-Year Raleigh City Council Retreat Scheduled

The Raleigh City Council’s Mid-Year Retreat will take place at Lions Park over two days:

• Friday, September 18: Noon to 5 p.m.
• Saturday, September 19: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Planned discussion topics include planning and land use, Downtown Raleigh, innovation and technology, the City’s revenue outlook, housing and grant management.

Council Member Announcements and Requests

Council members shared several community announcements and requests during the meeting.

Councilor Christina Jones will host a District E Community Meeting from 6 to 8 p.m. on September 9 at La Cucina. Her community book club will meet from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. on September 12 at The Continental.

Councilor Megan Patton scheduled office hours from 6 to 8 p.m. on August 19 at Bedford Food & Drink.

Councilor James Bledsoe Forte asked City staff to address e-bikes and scooters that are being left throughout Raleigh.

Patton also requested a resolution that would allow the City Council to appoint county representatives to boards and commissions when the Wake County Board of Commissioners does not act within a timely period.

Council Adopts Land Planning Appointment Policy

The Council unanimously adopted a resolution establishing its policy for appointments to Raleigh’s land-planning boards and commissions.

The policy addresses circumstances in which boards may have overlapping authority to review rezoning and other development applications. The affected boards include:

• Raleigh Planning Commission
• Raleigh Board of Adjustment
• Raleigh Historic Development Commission
• Raleigh Design Review Commission

The policy provides guidance regarding dual appointments to these bodies.

No Council Committee Meetings Scheduled

The Economic Development and Innovation Committee, Housing and Environment Committee, Community Safety and Quality of Life Committee and Transportation and Transit Committee reported no pending items.

No Raleigh City Council committee meetings were scheduled following the August 18 meeting.

Residents can review the complete agenda and supporting documents on the City of Raleigh’s official meeting portal⁠.

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Triangle Big Ticket Event Guide August 20–27, 2026 Edition

The Triangle’s late-August entertainment calendar is packed with major concerts, comedy performances and nightlife events. Billy Idol, Jack Johnson, Jordan Davis, The Mountain Goats, Three Dog Night, KevOnStage, Hasan Minhaj, Ronny Chieng and many more are scheduled to perform across Raleigh, Durham, Cary, Carrboro, Chapel Hill and surrounding communities.

Use the DoRaleigh Triangle Big Ticket Event Guide to explore upcoming shows from Thursday, August 20, through Thursday, August 27, 2026.

Thursday, August 20

Wilderado

Catch indie-folk band Wilderado at Bowstring Pizza and Brewyard in Raleigh.

• Time: 6 p.m.
• Venue: Bowstring Pizza and Brewyard
• Location: Raleigh

Jonnie W.

Comedian Jonnie W. brings his observational humor and storytelling to Goodnights Comedy Club.

• Time: 7:30 p.m.
• Venue: Goodnights Comedy Club
• Location: Raleigh

Happy Landing

Happy Landing performs an energetic Thursday night show at Cat’s Cradle.

• Time: 8 p.m.
• Venue: Cat’s Cradle
• Location: Carrboro

FattMack

FattMack takes the stage at one of downtown Raleigh’s best-known live music venues.

• Time: 8 p.m.
• Venue: Lincoln Theatre
• Location: Raleigh

Flowerbomb

Flowerbomb performs at Local 506 on Franklin Street.

• Time: 8 p.m.
• Venue: Local 506
• Location: Chapel Hill

Friday, August 21

Jordan Davis

Country music star Jordan Davis headlines an outdoor concert in downtown Raleigh.

• Time: 7 p.m.
• Venue: Red Hat Amphitheater
• Location: Raleigh

Hasan Hates Ronny: Ronny Chieng and Hasan Minhaj

Comedians Ronny Chieng and Hasan Minhaj bring their joint “Hasan Hates Ronny” show to the Durham Performing Arts Center.

• Time: 7 p.m.
• Venue: Durham Performing Arts Center
• Location: Durham

Zoso: Led Zeppelin Tribute Band

Zoso recreates the sound and energy of Led Zeppelin during a Friday night tribute concert.

• Time: 7 p.m.
• Venue: Bowstring Pizza and Brewyard
• Location: Raleigh

Jaimee Harris and Wes Collins

Enjoy an intimate listening-room performance featuring singer-songwriters Jaimee Harris and Wes Collins.

• Time: 7:30 p.m.
• Venue: The Wake Forest Listening Room at Magnolia Roots
• Location: Wake Forest

Laila Biali

Award-winning vocalist and pianist Laila Biali performs at the Halle Cultural Arts Center.

• Time: 7:30 p.m.
• Venue: Halle Cultural Arts Center
• Location: Apex

Three Dog Night

Legendary rock band Three Dog Night brings decades of recognizable hits to the Carolina Theatre.

• Time: 8 p.m.
• Venue: Carolina Theatre
• Location: Durham

Guardians of the Jukebox

Travel back to the age of synthesizers and big hair with Guardians of the Jukebox.

• Time: 8 p.m.
• Venue: Lincoln Theatre
• Location: Raleigh

Songs From the Road Band

Songs From the Road Band brings its blend of bluegrass and Americana to the Cat’s Cradle Back Room.

• Time: 8 p.m.
• Venue: Cat’s Cradle Back Room
• Location: Carrboro

Sub Empty

Sub Empty performs a Friday night show at Kings in downtown Raleigh.

• Time: 8 p.m.
• Venue: Kings
• Location: Raleigh

Ragie Ban

Ragie Ban takes the stage for a late-night performance at The Fruit.

• Time: 9 p.m.
• Venue: The Fruit
• Location: Durham

Carsen White

Comedian Carsen White performs a late show at Goodnights Comedy Club.

• Time: 9:45 p.m.
• Venue: Goodnights Comedy Club
• Location: Raleigh

BOLO

Finish Friday night with BOLO at Aura Lounge & Nightclub.

• Time: 10 p.m.
• Venue: Aura Lounge & Nightclub
• Location: Raleigh

Saturday, August 22

KevOnStage

Comedian and digital creator KevOnStage presents two Saturday performances at the Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts.

• Times: 5 and 8 p.m.
• Venue: Fletcher Opera Theater
• Location: Raleigh

Kristin Key

Comedian, musician and viral entertainer Kristin Key performs at Goodnights Comedy Club.

• Time: 6 p.m.
• Venue: Goodnights Comedy Club
• Location: Raleigh

GUTTING

GUTTING performs Saturday evening at The Pinhook.

• Time: 6:30 p.m.
• Venue: The Pinhook
• Location: Durham

The Statler Experience

Celebrate the music and legacy of The Statler Brothers during this tribute performance.

• Time: 7 p.m.
• Venue: Liberty Showcase Theater
• Location: Liberty

El Tri

Mexican rock band El Tri performs at The Ritz in Raleigh.

• Time: 7 p.m.
• Venue: The Ritz
• Location: Raleigh

Jack Johnson

Singer-songwriter Jack Johnson headlines a Saturday night outdoor concert at Walnut Creek.

• Time: 7:30 p.m.
• Venue: Coastal Credit Union Music Park at Walnut Creek
• Location: Raleigh

The Mountain Goats

Indie-rock favorites The Mountain Goats return to Durham for a performance at DPAC.

• Time: 8 p.m.
• Venue: Durham Performing Arts Center
• Location: Durham

Machinegun Earl

Machinegun Earl performs at Local 506 in Chapel Hill.

• Time: 8 p.m.
• Venue: Local 506
• Location: Chapel Hill

Carsen White

Carsen White returns for another late-night comedy performance.

• Time: 10 p.m.
• Venue: Goodnights Comedy Club
• Location: Raleigh

Sunday, August 23

Squeeze, Adam Ant and Haircut 100

Three defining names from British new wave and pop-rock share the stage for a major Sunday night concert in Cary.

• Time: 6 p.m.
• Venue: Koka Booth Amphitheatre at Regency Park
• Location: Cary

Kristin Key

Kristin Key closes the weekend with another comedy performance at Goodnights.

• Time: 6 p.m.
• Venue: Goodnights Comedy Club
• Location: Raleigh

Carrboro Indie Night

Discover local and regional performers during Carrboro Indie Night.

• Time: 7 p.m.
• Venue: Cat’s Cradle
• Location: Carrboro

Billy Idol

Rock icon Billy Idol brings his catalog of hits to Coastal Credit Union Music Park.

• Time: 7:30 p.m.
• Venue: Coastal Credit Union Music Park at Walnut Creek
• Location: Raleigh

Carsen White

Carsen White performs an additional Sunday night comedy show in Room 861.

• Time: 7:30 p.m.
• Venue: Room 861 at Goodnights Comedy Club
• Location: Raleigh

The Well

The Well performs at The Pour House Music Hall in downtown Raleigh.

• Time: 8 p.m.
• Venue: The Pour House Music Hall
• Location: Raleigh

Kai and Clyde

Kai and Clyde close out Sunday night at Local 506.

• Time: 8 p.m.
• Venue: Local 506
• Location: Chapel Hill

Wednesday, August 26

Mustard Service

Indie band Mustard Service performs at Motorco Music Hall.

• Time: 7:30 p.m.
• Venue: Motorco Music Hall
• Location: Durham

Slow Teeth

Slow Teeth takes the stage at the Cat’s Cradle Back Room.

• Time: 8 p.m.
• Venue: Cat’s Cradle Back Room
• Location: Carrboro

Thursday, August 27

Eslabon Armado

Regional Mexican group Eslabon Armado brings its chart-topping sound to The Ritz.

• Time: 7 p.m.
• Venue: The Ritz
• Location: Raleigh

Shawn Gardini

Comedian Shawn Gardini performs at Goodnights Comedy Club.

• Time: 7:30 p.m.
• Venue: Goodnights Comedy Club
• Location: Raleigh

Ghalia Volt

Blues-rock musician Ghalia Volt performs at the Lincoln Theatre.

• Time: 7:30 p.m.
• Venue: Lincoln Theatre
• Location: Raleigh

Weight Shift

Weight Shift performs a Thursday night show at Local 506.

• Time: 8 p.m.
• Venue: Local 506
• Location: Chapel Hill

Destructo Disk

Destructo Disk takes the stage at The Pinhook in Durham.

• Time: 8 p.m.
• Venue: The Pinhook
• Location: Durham

The Barons

The Barons perform at Kings in downtown Raleigh.

• Time: 8 p.m.
• Venue: Kings
• Location: Raleigh

Also on the Triangle Entertainment Calendar

Classic Country Jubilee

The Classic Country Jubilee brings traditional country entertainment to the historic Rudy Theatre in Johnston County. The date was not included in the supplied event listing, so confirm the schedule directly with the theater.

• Time: 12:45 p.m.
• Venue: Rudy Theatre
• Location: Selma

Plan Your Next Triangle Show

The biggest weekend highlights include Jordan Davis at Red Hat Amphitheater, Jack Johnson and Billy Idol at Walnut Creek, The Mountain Goats and “Hasan Hates Ronny” at DPAC, and Squeeze, Adam Ant and Haircut 100 at Koka Booth Amphitheatre.

Comedy fans can also choose from KevOnStage, Kristin Key, Jonnie W., Carsen White and Shawn Gardini.

Tickets, performance times, age restrictions and venue policies may change. Check with the venue or official ticket provider before purchasing tickets or traveling to an event.

Follow DoRaleigh.com for everything Raleigh, including Triangle concerts, comedy shows, nightlife, festivals and weekly event guides.

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City of Raleigh Government Guide Wednesday, August 19th Edition

Raleigh residents can stay connected with local government by following two public meetings scheduled for Wednesday, August 19, 2026. The day’s agenda includes a Planning Commission committee meeting and a Dix Park stewardship meeting focused on one of the city’s most important public spaces.

Planning Commission Text Change Committee

The Raleigh Planning Commission Text Change Committee will meet Wednesday afternoon. This committee reviews proposed amendments to the city’s Unified Development Ordinance and other regulations that may affect development, zoning and future growth.

Text changes can influence how land is developed throughout Raleigh, making this meeting particularly relevant to residents, developers, neighborhood leaders and business owners interested in local planning decisions.

• Time: 4 p.m.
• Category: Boards and Commissions
• Date: Wednesday, August 19, 2026

Dix Park Stewardship Committee Meeting

The Dix Park Stewardship Committee will meet Wednesday evening. The committee supports the continued planning, care and responsible development of Dorothea Dix Park.

Its work helps guide stewardship priorities for the park while considering community needs, environmental resources, public programming and the park’s long-term future.

• Time: 5 p.m.
• Category: Parks, Recreation and Athletics
• Date: Wednesday, August 19, 2026

Participate in Raleigh Local Government

City boards, commissions and committees give residents an opportunity to learn more about projects and policies affecting Raleigh. Depending on the meeting format and agenda, residents may be able to attend in person, watch online or review meeting materials through the City of Raleigh’s official website.

Meeting times, locations and agendas may change. Confirm participation details with the City of Raleigh before attending.

Follow DoRaleigh.com for Raleigh government updates, community meetings, local news and daily Triangle event guides.

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Triangle Big-Ticket Events Guide August 11–17th Edition

The Triangle’s entertainment calendar is packed with concerts, comedy shows and themed parties from August 11–17, 2026.

This week’s biggest events include 5 Seconds of Summer at Coastal Credit Union Music Park, Simple Plan with Bowling for Soup and 3OH!3 at Red Hat Amphitheater, PJ Morton at Meymandi Concert Hall and Jonathan Butler with Najee at Koka Booth Amphitheatre.

Here is the Triangle weekly big-ticket event guide for Raleigh, Durham, Cary, Chapel Hill, Carrboro and nearby communities.

Tuesday, August 11

Matisyahu

Matisyahu brings his distinctive blend of reggae, rock, hip-hop and spiritual influences to Bowstring Pizza and Brewyard.

• Time: 6 p.m.
• Venue: Bowstring Pizza and Brewyard
• Location: Raleigh

Slow Joy

Alternative artist Slow Joy performs Tuesday night at one of Chapel Hill’s longtime independent music venues.

• Time: 7:30 p.m.
• Venue: Local 506
• Location: Chapel Hill

Jacques Ze Whipper

Comedy and unconventional entertainment take the stage when Jacques Ze Whipper visits Goodnights Comedy Club.

• Time: 7:30 p.m.
• Venue: Goodnights Comedy Club
• Location: Raleigh

Thursday, August 13

Caitlin Peluffo

Stand-up comedian Caitlin Peluffo brings her energetic comedy to Goodnights.

The supplied schedule lists performances at both Goodnights Comedy Club and Room 861 at the same time. Confirm the correct room when purchasing tickets.

• Time: 7:30 p.m.
• Venue: Goodnights Comedy Club/Room 861
• Location: Raleigh

Cordovas

Nashville-based band Cordovas brings its blend of Americana, country rock and harmony-driven music to The Pour House.

• Time: 8 p.m.
• Venue: The Pour House Music Hall
• Location: Raleigh

Margot Sinclair

Margot Sinclair performs an intimate Thursday-night show in the Cat’s Cradle Back Room.

• Time: 8 p.m.
• Venue: Cat’s Cradle Back Room
• Location: Carrboro

Friday, August 14

Corey Holcomb

Comedian Corey Holcomb begins a multi-show weekend at Raleigh Improv in Cary.

• Showtimes: 7 and 9:15 p.m.
• Venue: Raleigh Improv
• Location: Cary

Lee Johnson and Jodi Jones

Lee Johnson and Jodi Jones share the bill at The Pinhook in downtown Durham.

• Time: 7 p.m.
• Venue: The Pinhook
• Location: Durham

5 Seconds of Summer

Australian pop-rock band 5 Seconds of Summer takes over Coastal Credit Union Music Park at Walnut Creek for one of the week’s largest concerts.

• Time: 8 p.m.
• Venue: Coastal Credit Union Music Park at Walnut Creek
• Location: Raleigh

Los Tucanes de Tijuana

Regional Mexican music stars Los Tucanes de Tijuana perform at Raleigh Memorial Auditorium.

• Time: 8 p.m.
• Venue: Raleigh Memorial Auditorium at Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts
• Location: Raleigh

PJ Morton

Grammy-winning singer, songwriter and musician PJ Morton brings his blend of R&B, soul and gospel to Meymandi Concert Hall.

• Time: 8 p.m.
• Venue: Meymandi Concert Hall at Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts
• Location: Raleigh

The Shoaldiggers Album Release Show

The Shoaldiggers celebrate a new album with a release show in the Cat’s Cradle Back Room.

• Time: 8 p.m.
• Venue: Cat’s Cradle Back Room
• Location: Carrboro

Recessioncore Summer Party

Kings hosts a late-night Recessioncore Summer Party in downtown Raleigh.

• Time: 10 p.m.
• Venue: Kings
• Location: Raleigh

Saturday, August 15

Corey Holcomb

Corey Holcomb continues his weekend at Raleigh Improv with two Saturday performances.

• Showtimes: 6:30 and 9 p.m.
• Venue: Raleigh Improv
• Location: Cary

Classic Country Jubilee

Enjoy a night celebrating classic country music at the Rudy Theatre in Selma.

• Time: 6:45 p.m.
• Venue: Rudy Theatre
• Location: Selma

Simple Plan, Bowling for Soup and 3OH!3

Three major pop-punk and alternative acts share the stage at Red Hat Amphitheater.

Fans can expect nostalgic favorites from Simple Plan, Bowling for Soup and 3OH!3 during one of downtown Raleigh’s biggest concerts of the week.

• Time: 7 p.m.
• Venue: Red Hat Amphitheater
• Location: Raleigh

Sweet Dream

Sweet Dream performs Saturday evening at The Pinhook.

• Time: 7 p.m.
• Venue: The Pinhook
• Location: Durham

Royale Lynn

Royale Lynn brings her genre-blending sound to Kings in downtown Raleigh.

• Time: 7:30 p.m.
• Venue: Kings
• Location: Raleigh

Toxic

Toxic performs Saturday night at the Lincoln Theatre.

• Time: 7:30 p.m.
• Venue: Lincoln Theatre
• Location: Raleigh

John Violinist Live!

John Violinist presents a live performance at Fletcher Opera Theater.

• Time: 8 p.m.
• Venue: Fletcher Opera Theater at Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts
• Location: Raleigh

Bop to the Top

Bop to the Top brings a nostalgic pop-party experience to The Ritz.

• Time: 8 p.m.
• Venue: The Ritz
• Location: Raleigh

MavicMachine

MavicMachine takes the stage for a late show at The Pour House Music Hall.

• Time: 9 p.m.
• Venue: The Pour House Music Hall
• Location: Raleigh

Barbies Versus Bratz: Y2K Party

Cat’s Cradle hosts a late-night party inspired by Barbie, Bratz and early-2000s pop culture.

• Time: 10 p.m.
• Venue: Cat’s Cradle
• Location: Carrboro

Sunday, August 16

Jonathan Butler and Najee

Jazz and R&B stars Jonathan Butler and Najee perform together under the stars at Koka Booth Amphitheatre.

• Time: 6:30 p.m.
• Venue: Koka Booth Amphitheatre at Regency Park
• Location: Cary

EMM

EMM performs Sunday night at Kings in downtown Raleigh.

• Time: 8 p.m.
• Venue: Kings
• Location: Raleigh

Owen and The Smokes

Owen and The Smokes close the weekend at Local 506.

• Time: 8 p.m.
• Venue: Local 506
• Location: Chapel Hill

Monday, August 17

Luke Borchelt

Luke Borchelt performs Monday night to close this week’s big-ticket calendar.

• Time: 8 p.m.
• Venue: Not included in the supplied schedule

Check the official ticket listing for the venue and admission details.

Top Picks This Week

If you are narrowing down the schedule, these shows are likely to attract some of the week’s largest audiences:

• 5 Seconds of Summer — Friday at Coastal Credit Union Music Park
• Los Tucanes de Tijuana — Friday at Raleigh Memorial Auditorium
• PJ Morton — Friday at Meymandi Concert Hall
• Simple Plan, Bowling for Soup and 3OH!3 — Saturday at Red Hat Amphitheater
• Jonathan Butler and Najee — Sunday at Koka Booth Amphitheatre
• Corey Holcomb — Multiple weekend shows at Raleigh Improv

Plan Your Week of Live Entertainment

With several major concerts taking place Friday and Saturday, downtown Raleigh and surrounding entertainment districts may experience heavier traffic and increased demand for parking.

Ticket prices, opening acts, age restrictions and showtimes may change. Confirm all information with the venue or authorized ticket provider before attending.

Follow DoRaleigh.com for everything Raleigh and the Triangle, including concert announcements, comedy shows, nightlife and weekly event guides.

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Compiled by Bryan Tomlinson for DoRaleigh.com.

Important North Carolina History Moments That Happened in August

August has played a significant role in North Carolina’s history, marking milestones in aviation, civil rights, politics, education and military history. From the birth of one of the nation’s first public universities to the Wright brothers’ groundbreaking flights on the Outer Banks, these events helped shape both North Carolina and the United States.

Here are some of the most important North Carolina history dates to remember in August.

August 1, 1960: Greensboro Woolworth Sit-In Continues

Although the Greensboro sit-ins began on February 1, 1960, August marked six months of sustained demonstrations that helped transform the Civil Rights Movement.

The nonviolent protests led by four North Carolina A&T students inspired similar sit-ins across the country and helped bring an end to segregated lunch counters.

Location: Greensboro

August 2, 1776: North Carolina Delegates Sign the Declaration of Independence

North Carolina delegates William Hooper, Joseph Hewes and John Penn signed the Declaration of Independence in Philadelphia during August 1776.

Their signatures represented North Carolina’s commitment to American independence.

August 17, 1903: The Wright Brothers Arrive in Kitty Hawk for Their Final Flying Season

Wilbur and Orville Wright returned to the Outer Banks in August 1903 to prepare for the experiments that would culminate in the world’s first successful powered flight on December 17, 1903.

Their work at Kitty Hawk forever connected North Carolina with the history of aviation.

Location: Kitty Hawk

August 21, 1831: Nat Turner’s Rebellion Impacts North Carolina

Although the rebellion occurred in neighboring Virginia, its aftermath dramatically affected North Carolina.

State lawmakers adopted stricter laws governing enslaved and free Black residents, influencing North Carolina’s legal and political landscape for decades.

August 25, 1789: The University of North Carolina Is Chartered

The North Carolina General Assembly chartered the University of North Carolina on August 25, 1789.

UNC became the first public university in the United States to open its doors and graduate students under a single state charter.

Location: Chapel Hill

August 27, 1963: North Carolinians Prepare for the March on Washington

Civil rights leaders, clergy, students and community members from across North Carolina traveled to Washington, D.C., to participate in the historic March on Washington on August 28.

Many participants came from Raleigh, Durham, Greensboro, Charlotte and other communities throughout the state.

August 30, 1954: Hurricane Hazel Preparations Begin

As Hurricane Hazel approached the Atlantic coast later that fall, August marked the height of hurricane preparedness season in North Carolina.

The month serves as an annual reminder for residents to review emergency plans before the peak of hurricane season.

Why August Matters in North Carolina History

August reflects the diversity of North Carolina’s history—from colonial government and higher education to aviation, civil rights and public service.

Many of these anniversaries are commemorated through museums, state historic sites and educational programs across North Carolina.

Some of the best places to explore North Carolina history include:

• North Carolina Museum of History (Raleigh)
• Wright Brothers National Memorial (Kitty Hawk)
• International Civil Rights Center & Museum (Greensboro)
• North Carolina State Capitol (Raleigh)
• Bennett Place (Durham)
• Historic Stagville (Durham)

Explore North Carolina History Year-Round

Learning about North Carolina’s past helps us better understand the people, places and events that shaped our communities today. Whether you’re visiting a museum, attending a local history program or exploring a historic site, August offers an opportunity to reflect on the state’s rich heritage.

Follow DoRaleigh.com for local history, Raleigh events, North Carolina travel ideas and community news.

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Written by Bryan. Tomlinson, Editor of DoRaleigh.com.

National Chicken Wing Day 2026 Deals in Raleigh and the Triangle

Chicken wing fans have another reason to celebrate on Wednesday, July 29. National Chicken Wing Day 2026 brings free wings, buy-one-get-one offers and discounted meals to participating restaurants around Raleigh and the Triangle.

Deals are available from Bad Daddy’s Burger Bar, Buffalo Wild Wings, East Coast Wings + Grill, Hooters, Bonchon, Whataburger, Wingstop and Pizza Hut. Some promotions require an app, rewards membership, qualifying purchase or promo code.

Here are the reported National Chicken Wing Day deals available on July 29, 2026.

Bad Daddy’s Burger Bar: 99-Cent Wings

Bad Daddy’s Burger Bar is serving crispy wings for 99 cents each on July 29.

Customers may choose from BBQ, Classic Buffalo or Thai Chili sauce. Each order is served with house-made ranch or blue cheese dressing.

Deal requirements:

• Dine-in only
• Minimum order of six wings
• Maximum of 18 wings per customer
• Available July 29 only
• Participation may vary by location

The promotion includes Bad Daddy’s Raleigh location at 111 Seaboard Avenue.

Buffalo Wild Wings: Free Wings With a $15 Purchase

Buffalo Wild Wings is offering six free traditional or boneless wings with a minimum $15 food purchase on National Chicken Wing Day.

Deal requirements:

• Minimum $15 qualifying purchase
• Available at participating locations
• Third-party delivery orders are excluded
• Additional restrictions may apply

Check the Buffalo Wild Wings website or app before ordering to confirm whether a promotional code is required at your location.

East Coast Wings + Grill: Kids Eat Free and More

East Coast Wings + Grill has announced several family-friendly promotions for July 29.

Reported offers include:

• Kids eat free all day
• Dine-in customers receive $7 off a future visit
• Birthday hats, stickers and activity sheets for children
• A complimentary taste of the winning Fan Flavor Showdown sauce

Offer details may vary, and some promotions could require an adult entrée or other qualifying purchase. Contact your nearest participating East Coast Wings + Grill before visiting.

Hooters: 10 Wings for $7.29

Participating Hooters restaurants are offering 10 wings for $7.29 on July 29.

Customers may reportedly choose breaded, naked or boneless wings. Daytona-style wings are excluded.

Deal requirements:

• Available at participating locations
• Some locations may require dine-in service or a beverage purchase
• Franchise-specific restrictions may apply
• Valid July 29 only

Because Hooters promotions sometimes vary by franchise group, Triangle diners should verify that their preferred location is participating.

Bonchon: Five Wings for $5

Bonchon is offering five wings for $5 during its one-day National Chicken Wing Day promotion.

How to order:

• Visit a participating Bonchon restaurant
• Order through Bonchon.com⁠
• Use the Bonchon mobile app

Availability, flavors and additional charges may vary by restaurant.

Whataburger: Buy One, Get One Free WhataWings

Whataburger Rewards members can receive a free nine-piece WhataWings order when they purchase another qualifying nine-piece order.

Available flavors include:

• Honey BBQ
• Buffalo
• Honey Butter
• Sweet & Spicy

Deal requirements:

• Whataburger Rewards membership required
• Order through the Whataburger app or website
• Available at participating restaurants
• Valid July 29 only

Customers should add the offer through their rewards account before checking out.

Wingstop: Five Free Wings With a $10 Purchase

Wingstop is giving customers five free wings with an online or mobile-app purchase of at least $10.

Use promotional code FREEWINGS at checkout.

Deal requirements:

• Minimum $10 purchase
• Order through Wingstop’s website or app
• Enter code FREEWINGS
• Available during the promotional period at participating locations
• Taxes, fees and other exclusions may apply

The offer is part of Wingstop’s 2026 Wing Week celebration.

Pizza Hut: Buy One, Get One Free Boneless Wings

Pizza Hut’s recurring Wing Wednesday promotion falls on National Chicken Wing Day this year.

Customers can buy one regularly priced order of boneless wings and receive a second order of equal or lesser value for free. Despite some deal listings saying bone-in wings are included, Pizza Hut’s official terms specify boneless wings.

Use promotional code BOGOWINGS when ordering.

Deal requirements:

• Boneless wings only
• Online or app orders
• Carryout only
• Available at participating locations
• Free order must be of equal or lesser value
• Taxes, delivery fees and additional sauce charges are excluded

Review the complete offer on Pizza Hut’s official Wing Wednesday page⁠.

What About the Popeyes Wing Deal?

A Popeyes promotion offered Rewards members 12 tenders or 12 wings for $12 from July 20 through July 26.

Because that offer ended before National Chicken Wing Day on July 29, it should not be considered an active Wing Day deal.

Popeyes may have other rewards offers available through its app, including discounts on qualifying family meals. Check the current promotions in your account before ordering.

Which National Chicken Wing Day Deal Is Best?

The best choice depends on how much you want to order and whether you prefer dining in or taking food home.

• Best low-cost dine-in option: Bad Daddy’s 99-cent wings
• Best family offer: East Coast Wings + Grill
• Best small order: Bonchon’s five wings for $5
• Best rewards-member deal: Whataburger’s BOGO WhataWings
• Best online offer: Wingstop’s five free wings with a $10 purchase
• Best shareable carryout deal: Pizza Hut’s BOGO boneless wings
• Best traditional restaurant experience: Buffalo Wild Wings’ free wings with a qualifying purchase

Double-Check Before You Head Out

Most national restaurant promotions are valid only at participating locations. Individual franchises may decline to participate or impose additional purchase, dining and rewards requirements.

Before leaving home:

1. Confirm that your preferred Triangle location is participating.
2. Check whether the offer requires an app or rewards account.
3. Review dine-in, carryout or delivery restrictions.
4. Enter the correct promotional code before submitting an online order.
5. Verify that the discount appears in your cart or on your receipt.

National Chicken Wing Day promotions are generally available for one day only and may end without notice or while supplies last.

Follow DoRaleigh.com for everything Raleigh, including local restaurant deals, food news, community events and guides to what’s happening around the Triangle.

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Published by Bryan Tomlinson | BTDesigns.pro |

Noteworthy News Around Raleigh and the Triangle – Parking Rates, New Developments, Business Openings and More

From higher downtown parking rates and major development projects to new restaurants, cultural attractions and economic growth, Raleigh and the Triangle continue to change rapidly. Here are the local headlines residents should know this week.

Downtown Raleigh Parking Rates Increase August 1

Parking in downtown Raleigh will become more expensive beginning Saturday, August 1, 2026.

Hourly rates at non-event city garages will increase from $2 to $3, while event parking garages will charge $4 per hour. The daily maximum will rise to $21 at non-event decks and $24 at event decks.

On-street parking will be standardized at $1.50 per hour citywide. Street parking will remain free after 6 p.m. on weekdays and throughout the weekend.

The city’s free two-hour parking program at participating non-event downtown decks will continue Monday through Friday. View the complete parking rate changes from the City of Raleigh⁠.

City Gateway Brings Automated Parking Downtown

Construction is underway on the City Gateway district, beginning with a street extension and an automated underground parking garage.

The two-level facility will use robotic lifts and shuttles to store and retrieve vehicles, making it North Carolina’s first public automated parking system. A roughly 27,000-square-foot public plaza is planned above the garage.

The first phase is expected to open this winter, adding a futuristic parking option to downtown Raleigh.

Major Mixed-Use Development Planned Near Wegmans

Lincoln Property Company and Spectrum Companies are partnering on a 10-acre mixed-use development behind Trader Joe’s and Wegmans in Raleigh.

Plans call for a combination of apartments, townhomes, retail space, offices and a hotel. The development joins a growing list of large projects reshaping Raleigh’s housing and commercial landscape.

Research Triangle Park is undergoing a similar transformation. Once known almost exclusively for corporate campuses and research facilities, RTP now includes apartments, restaurants, retail and public gathering spaces that give portions of the park the feel of a small town.

Highline Glenwood Changes Raleigh’s Skyline

Construction on the 37-story Highline Glenwood tower has climbed beyond 10 stories, making the building increasingly visible above Glenwood South.

The approximately $200 million luxury apartment project broke ground less than a year ago. Once completed, it will become one of the most prominent additions to Raleigh’s expanding skyline.

North Raleigh is also experiencing a luxury housing boom. Exeter Building Company is developing custom homes starting at approximately $2 million in communities including Glenhill, Shinleaf Estates, Stratford and Maple Ridge Cove.

Raleigh-Cary Job Growth Ranks Near the Top Nationally

Raleigh and Cary added jobs faster than 99% of U.S. metropolitan areas during the 12 months ending in May, according to economic research from PNC.

The region’s employment growth reportedly outpaced larger markets including Atlanta and Washington, D.C. The numbers underscore the Triangle’s continued appeal to technology, life-sciences, professional-services and advanced-manufacturing employers.

That growth is also intensifying concerns about housing affordability. Although housing inventory has increased, high home prices and mortgage rates continue to strain household budgets and could affect business recruitment and workforce retention.

Fujifilm Expands Its Holly Springs Campus

Fujifilm Biotechnologies has launched the first two manufacturing facilities at its Holly Springs campus, where approximately 860 employees are now working.

Construction continues on the $3.2 billion complex. Two additional facilities are expected by 2027, potentially doubling the campus’s production capacity and further strengthening the Triangle’s position as a major biotechnology hub.

Durham-based medical technology company 410 Medical has also raised $12 million to bring its LifeFlow device to market. The system is designed to deliver fluids rapidly to patients experiencing hemorrhagic shock or sepsis.

Raleigh Startup Brings AI to Vertical Farming

AgEye Technologies is using artificial intelligence to automate vertical farming operations.

The Raleigh startup says its technology can help growers harvest crops in approximately half the time required by conventional methods. The company is also expanding beyond North Carolina through projects in the Middle East.

Meanwhile, North Carolina’s technology job market showed mixed signals in June. Data from the NC TECH IT Job Trends Dashboard indicated that postings declined from approximately 7,400 in May to 6,900 in June. National technology job postings, however, remained 5.6% higher than in June 2025.

New Art Gallery Coming to North Hills

Reehl Fine Art is scheduled to open in North Hills this November.

The contemporary gallery is a partnership between Willa Kane and Raleigh artist Caroline Boykin. It will occupy the former Lululemon space at 4421 Six Forks Road and showcase work from approximately 30 artists.

New Businesses Coming to Celebration at Six Forks

Celebration at Six Forks is adding three tenants:

• Bagel Dock Express
• Koi Sushi & Hibachi
• G13 Jiu Jitsu

The additions will bring new dining and fitness choices to the North Raleigh shopping center.

Blue Ridge Realty is also adding retail space to The Atrium at Blue Ridge near UNC Rex Hospital. The space is expected to become available during the first quarter of 2027, supporting additional dining options and improved walkability around the office development.

LGBT Center of Raleigh Celebrates Its New Home

The LGBT Center of Raleigh is settling into its new downtown location and will hold a housewarming celebration on Friday, August 7, from 5:30 to 8 p.m.

The First Friday event will feature building tours, crafts, cake and access to the Queer Clothing Closet.

New SHARE Carts Reduce School Food Waste

A growing Wake County program is helping students share unopened cafeteria food instead of throwing it away.

Students may place eligible, unopened items on SHARE carts so classmates can pick them up later. The program keeps usable food out of landfills while providing free snacks to students during the school day.

Wake County Invests $22 Million in Homelessness Response

Wake County is investing $22 million in Wake at Home, an initiative designed to help approximately 1,400 people obtain stable housing over 18 months.

The plan includes moving an estimated 400 people from encampments into permanent housing while connecting them with supportive services.

Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library Reopens Enrollment

Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library has reopened enrollment in 42 North Carolina counties following the restoration of state funding.

Eligible children from birth through age 5 in Wake, Durham, Orange and other participating counties can once again register to receive a free book by mail every month.

M&F Bank and Optus Bank Announce Historic Merger

Durham’s M&F Bank, North Carolina’s oldest Black-owned bank, is merging with South Carolina-based Optus Bank.

The combination is expected to create the nation’s largest Black-owned bank, with more than $1.3 billion in assets. The merger represents a new chapter for an institution closely connected to Durham’s historic Black Wall Street.

Changes at Smoky Hollow

Tucker Street Diner has closed less than 18 months after opening, becoming the latest restaurant to leave Smoky Hollow. Its sister restaurants, Peak City Diner in Apex and The Shiny Diner near Crossroads, remain open.

A new concept from the team behind Iris Coffee Lab is preparing to take over the former diner space. Madeleine Coffee + Bread will bring a coffee shop and bakery to the development.

While construction continues, the business plans to operate a small pop-up outside the future location.

Andia’s Ice Cream Plans for Growth

Andia’s Ice Cream has leased a new 13,000-square-foot production facility in Raleigh.

The hub is expected to triple the company’s production capacity and create room for additional expansion across the Triangle.

Elsewhere in the local retail market, Nike has closed its smaller-format store at Fenton in Cary as part of the company’s broader turnaround strategy.

Cary Pasta Restaurant Closes Amid Owner’s Health Struggle

La Grassa Pastificio has closed after five years in Cary.

Chef-owner Bobby Reynaud attributed the decision to worsening health and his need for kidney and heart transplants. Supporters have organized a GoFundMe campaign to help him during his medical struggle.

Arrow Haircuts Expands Beyond North Carolina

Raleigh-based Arrow Haircuts is preparing to enter the Charleston, South Carolina, market after growing to 11 locations across North Carolina.

Owner Andy Phipps signed leases for the Charleston locations in 2025, with openings anticipated in 2027.

Raleigh Police Headquarters Moves Downtown

The Raleigh Police Department has moved its headquarters to 111 W. Hargett Street.

Department leaders, including the police chief’s office, are now based downtown. City officials say the move should improve coordination and strengthen RPD’s presence in the city center.

North Carolina Considers Minimum Liquor Prices

The North Carolina Alcoholic Beverage Control Commission is studying whether the state should establish a minimum retail price for liquor.

Public comments were accepted through July 29, with the commission expected to present its findings in August. Supporters and critics are watching to see how a minimum-price policy could affect consumers, retailers and public health.

State Expands Paid Parental Leave

North Carolina’s Public Workforce Modernization Act expands paid parental leave for eligible full-time state and public-school employees to 12 weeks.

Previously, workers generally received four or eight weeks depending on the circumstances of the birth. The change represents a significant increase in benefits for thousands of working parents.

NCCU Receives More Than $110 Million

North Carolina Central University is set to receive more than $110.3 million in state funding under North Carolina’s new budget.

University leaders said the investment responds to NCCU’s growing enrollment and will support future opportunities for the institution and its students.

St. Augustine’s University, meanwhile, is launching online certificate programs as it seeks additional revenue during bankruptcy proceedings. The unaccredited Raleigh HBCU faces approximately $74 million in debt while leaders consider options that may include selling university property.

Raleigh’s Film and Television Industry Grows

Film and television productions have generated more than $175 million in spending across North Carolina this year.

Projects ranging from Netflix’s “The Hunting Wives” to MrBeast’s “Beast Games” are contributing to renewed momentum for the state’s production industry.

Major Concerts Generate Revenue for NC State

Large concerts are becoming an important source of revenue for NC State athletics.

Carter-Finley Stadium recently hosted major performances by Guns N’ Roses and Noah Kahan. University officials say concerts provide opportunities to generate additional income from the stadium outside the Wolfpack football season.

North Carolinians also wagered approximately $590 million on sports in June, driven partly by the Stanley Cup Final and World Cup. June was the final month before the state’s higher sports-betting tax rate took effect, with new revenue earmarked in part for UNC and NC State athletics.

Raleigh Marks 20 Years Since Fayetteville Street Reopened

July 2026 marks 20 years since Fayetteville Street reopened to vehicles following three decades as a pedestrian mall.

The reopening helped launch a new period of downtown investment and revitalization. Two decades later, the city’s main street continues to evolve amid concerns about vacant storefronts, construction, public safety and changing downtown habits.

Raleigh’s Food and Drink Scene Earns Recognition

Twelve Raleigh restaurants earned places in Wine Spectator’s 2026 Restaurant Awards for their wine programs. Local honorees include Second Empire, Sullivan’s Steakhouse and Barcelona Wine Bar.

Raleigh also has a new homegrown sparkling water. The city partnered with Trophy Brewing to create Oak City Sparkle, carbonated Raleigh tap water served at municipal events. Future retail sales are planned to support utility-bill assistance through Raleigh Water’s customer assistance program.

Raleigh Parks Add Wildlife and Recreation Attractions

A colorful painted bunting has returned to the sunflower field at Dorothea Dix Park, giving visitors another reason to explore the popular seasonal attraction.

Construction is also underway on a sanctioned do-it-yourself skatepark at Jaycee Park. Raleigh skateboarders will help design and build ramps and obstacles as part of the community-driven project.

Beyond Raleigh, four litters of critically endangered red wolves have been born in eastern North Carolina this year. The births represent another encouraging step in efforts to restore the species in its native habitat.

State scientists have also formally named the Carolina redhorse, a rare fish studied for more than six decades. The newly recognized species is classified as threatened, providing wildlife officials with additional tools to protect it.

Financial Scams Cost North Carolinians Millions

North Carolina residents lost approximately $8.4 million to financial scams in 2025.

Reported schemes included cryptocurrency fraud, fake employment offers and other cyber-enabled scams. Residents should be cautious about unsolicited investment opportunities, requests for cryptocurrency payments and job offers that require upfront fees.

More Raleigh and Triangle Headlines

Other noteworthy developments include:

• Three trucks reportedly struck the low-clearance Peace Street Bridge during a single week, renewing attention on one of downtown Raleigh’s most infamous traffic hazards.
• Kimley-Horn, the Raleigh-based planning and engineering consulting firm, was recognized in U.S. News & World Report’s 2026–2027 Best Companies to Work For ratings.
• Nominations for GrepBeat’s 2026 Startups to Watch awards remain open through Friday, July 31.
• The Greater Raleigh Convention and Visitors Bureau held its eighth annual Meeting Professionals Summit for local tourism and business leaders.
• The North Carolina Symphony announced its 2026–2027 Pops Series, featuring music associated with Joni Mitchell, Blondie, Motown and other popular artists.
• Former Army and Tar Heels football player Doc Blanchard was named to Sports Illustrated’s list of the 50 greatest college football players of all time.
• Stephen Stroud, the influential Triangle businessman and real estate leader who helped bring the Carolina Hurricanes to Raleigh, died at age 83. His work helped shape developments including Brier Creek, Highwoods and Cary Crossroads.
• Donna Kelce, mother of NFL stars Travis and Jason Kelce, recently visited the Triangle, dining at Coquette in North Hills before attending Bingo Loco at The Ritz.
• Peer-to-peer services such as Swimply and Turo continue to expand local options for renting private pools and vehicles.
• A lack of shade remains a summer concern in downtown Raleigh’s Warehouse District, where residents and visitors should plan carefully during periods of extreme heat.

From business growth and cultural attractions to housing, transportation and community investment, Raleigh and the Triangle are entering another busy period of change.

Follow DoRaleigh.com for everything Raleigh, including local news, government updates, restaurant openings, development coverage and upcoming events.

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Published by Bryan Tomlinson | BTDesigns.pro |

How to Track How Your Federal, State and Local North Carolina Politicians Vote

Election campaigns tell voters what politicians promise to do. Voting records show what elected officials actually do once they are in office.

Whether you are following a congressional spending bill, a North Carolina education proposal, a Raleigh rezoning case or the Wake County budget, several free online tools can help you examine the decisions made by your representatives.

Here is how North Carolina residents can identify their elected officials, track legislation and review voting records at every level of government.

Start by Identifying Your Political Districts

Before reviewing voting records, confirm which officials represent your address. Political boundaries do not always match city limits, ZIP codes or county lines.

The North Carolina State Board of Elections Voter Search⁠ provides registered voters with information that may include:

• Congressional district
• North Carolina House district
• North Carolina Senate district
• County and municipal jurisdictions
• School board district
• Election Day polling place
• Sample ballot when one is available

The voter-history section shows which elections you participated in—not which candidates you selected. Your ballot choices remain private.

You can also use the North Carolina General Assembly’s Find Your Legislators⁠ page to locate your state representative and state senator.

How to Track Votes in Congress

North Carolina is represented in Washington by two U.S. senators and members of the U.S. House of Representatives.

Use Congress.gov

Congress.gov⁠ is the federal government’s primary legislation-tracking website. Search by:

• Bill number
• Bill title
• Policy topic
• Sponsor
• Keyword

After selecting a bill, review its summary, text, sponsors, committee activity and legislative history. Open the “Actions” section to find recorded House and Senate votes connected to the legislation.

Be careful to identify the exact vote you are reviewing. A bill may receive separate votes on amendments, procedural motions, final passage or a presidential veto override.

Check House roll-call votes

The Office of the Clerk of the U.S. House⁠ publishes official House roll-call results. Select a Congress, session and roll-call number to see:

• How every representative voted
• The total number of “yea” and “nay” votes
• Members listed as present or not voting
• The question considered
• Whether the motion passed or failed

Check Senate votes

The U.S. Senate roll-call vote database⁠ provides official Senate vote totals and the position taken by each senator.

Congress.gov also links applicable bill actions to official House and Senate roll-call pages, making it easier to connect a vote with the legislation being considered.

Use independent tracking services carefully

Services such as GovTrack can make congressional records easier to search and understand. Advocacy organizations also publish scorecards ranking legislators on selected issues.

These resources can be useful, but voters should verify important claims against Congress.gov, the House Clerk or the Senate’s official records. Scorecards may only include votes selected by the organization producing them.

How to Track North Carolina General Assembly Votes

The North Carolina General Assembly website⁠ is the official source for state bills and legislative voting records.

Search for a state bill

Open the site’s Bills and Laws section⁠ and search using a bill number, keyword or subject.

A bill’s page may include:

• Current and previous editions
• Sponsors and co-sponsors
• Bill summaries
• Committee referrals
• Amendments
• Fiscal notes
• Legislative actions
• House and Senate votes
• Whether the bill became law
• Gubernatorial action

A bill can change substantially as it moves through committees and between chambers. Always check which edition was under consideration when a vote occurred.

Review a legislator’s complete vote history

The General Assembly’s Vote Reports⁠ section allows users to search:

• House member vote history
• Senate member vote history
• Member vote statistics
• Roll-call vote history
• Roll-call vote transcripts

The General Assembly confirms that its member-vote-history reports provide the voting record for each state representative and senator.

This is one of the fastest ways to compare what a legislator said publicly with how that person voted in Raleigh.

Understand the abbreviations

North Carolina legislative records may use several voting labels:

• Aye: Voted in favor
• No: Voted against
• N/V: Did not vote
• Excused absence: Officially excused from attending
• Excused vote: Excused from voting
• Present: Attended but did not cast a yes-or-no vote, when applicable

A “not voting” designation does not automatically explain why a lawmaker did not participate. Contact the legislator’s office if the reason is important to your research.

What About the Governor?

The governor does not vote on bills in the General Assembly. After legislation passes both chambers, the governor may sign it, veto it or allow it to become law without a signature when permitted by law.

To evaluate a governor’s record, track:

• Bills signed
• Bills vetoed
• Executive orders
• Budget proposals
• Appointments
• Public statements
• Whether vetoes were overridden

The same distinction applies at the federal level: the president does not cast congressional votes but can sign or veto legislation approved by Congress.

How to Track Raleigh City Council Votes

Local votes can directly affect property taxes, development, housing, public safety, parks, transit and neighborhood growth.

The City of Raleigh maintains a City Council meetings page⁠ with:

• Meeting schedules
• Upcoming agendas
• Agenda packets
• Approved minutes
• City Council highlights
• Meeting videos
• Archives of previous meetings

To investigate a Raleigh City Council decision:

1. Open the agenda for the meeting when the issue was considered.
2. Search for the case number, project name, address or agenda item.
3. Review the staff report and supporting documents.
4. Watch the meeting video to hear the discussion.
5. Check the minutes for the motion, amendments and final outcome.

Meeting minutes may not be available immediately because the council generally must approve them at a later meeting.

Some local decisions are approved unanimously or as part of a consent agenda. If the minutes only report that a motion passed, watch the video or contact the city clerk to determine whether an individual roll-call vote occurred.

Tracking Wake County Commissioner Votes

The Wake County Board of Commissioners meeting portal⁠ provides access to meeting calendars, agendas, agenda packets, minutes and videos.

County commissioners make decisions involving:

• Property taxes
• County budgets
• Public health
• Affordable housing
• Libraries
• Emergency services
• Human services
• School funding
• Land use and capital projects

Search the meeting records by date or subject. When reviewing a decision, look for the exact motion and any amendments—not just the final vote on the entire agenda.

Following the Wake County School Board

The Wake County Board of Education website⁠ offers meeting calendars, board materials and links to meeting broadcasts.

School board decisions can affect:

• Student assignments
• School construction
• Employee compensation
• Academic policies
• Transportation
• Safety rules
• Calendars
• Budgets

Review the agenda before a meeting, watch the discussion and return later for the approved minutes. As with city and county government, not every decision will include a separately published member-by-member roll call.

Tracking Other North Carolina Cities and Counties

Residents outside Raleigh and Wake County can use the same basic process.

Search your city, town or county’s official website for:

• Governing board
• Mayor and council
• Board of commissioners
• Agendas and minutes
• Meeting portal
• Public notices
• Video archive

If a vote is unclear, contact the municipal or county clerk and request the approved minutes, voting record or applicable public record.

North Carolina’s 100 county boards of elections can also help residents identify the offices and districts connected to their address.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Confusing sponsorship with a vote

Sponsoring a bill shows support for introducing it, but it is not the same as voting for final passage.

Looking only at the bill title

Titles can be broad, political or incomplete. Read the bill summary and the version considered during the vote.

Ignoring procedural votes

A vote to table, refer, reconsider or end debate can determine whether a proposal advances—even when it is not labeled as a final vote.

Treating an absence as a “no”

An absent or non-voting member did not necessarily oppose the proposal. Check the official classification and ask the official’s office for an explanation.

Relying entirely on social media

Screenshots and political posts often omit amendments or identify the wrong vote. Find the bill number, meeting date and official record before sharing a claim.

Turn Voting Records Into Civic Action

Once you locate a vote, contact the elected official and ask for an explanation. A useful message should include the bill, case or agenda number and the date of the vote.

Residents can also:

• Subscribe to government meeting notifications
• Read agendas before decisions are made
• Submit written comments
• Speak during public-comment periods
• Attend committee and board meetings
• Save official voting records
• Compare campaign promises with actual decisions
• Share verified information with neighbors

Democracy requires more than voting during an election. Following public officials between elections helps North Carolinians understand who is making decisions, how those decisions affect their communities and whether elected leaders are keeping their promises.

Follow DoRaleigh.com for Raleigh government updates, community news and local event guides.

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Raleigh City Council Recap: Water Restrictions, Youth Curfew Debate and Rezoning Decisions

The Raleigh City Council addressed water conservation, public safety, development proposals and several community concerns during its July 7, 2026, meetings.

Among the biggest decisions, council members approved changes to Raleigh’s water restriction rules, began the process of considering a citywide youth curfew and unanimously approved six annexations, five rezonings and one change to zoning conditions.

Here is what Raleigh residents need to know.

Raleigh Strengthens Its Water Conservation Rules

City Council approved modifications giving city officials greater flexibility to move Raleigh into a higher stage of water restrictions when existing restrictions are not doing enough to reduce demand.

Under the previous framework, the city generally relied on predetermined water-supply percentage triggers before advancing to another restriction level. The approved changes allow officials to act sooner when conservation measures are proving ineffective.

The amendments also:

• Align civil penalties for violating the Water Shortage Response Plan with penalties already established in the Raleigh City Code.
• Limit irrigation of athletic fields to one day per week during Stage 2 water restrictions.
• Give the city more flexibility to respond to changing drought, supply and consumption conditions.

The goal is to reduce outdoor water use before Raleigh’s available supply reaches a more critical level.

City Council Considers Youth Curfew After July 4 Incidents

One of the meeting’s most closely watched discussions focused on the large youth gatherings described by officials as “teen takeovers” in Brier Creek and Glenwood South over the July 4 weekend.

Raleigh Police Chief Rico Boyce, Parks Director Stephen Bentley and Community Engagement Manager Tiesha Moseley briefed the council on the incidents and discussed possible enforcement and youth-engagement strategies.

Proposals included:

• A citywide curfew for people ages 17 and younger.
• Restrictions on backpacks in certain areas or during designated events.
• Increased monitoring of social-media activity.
• Enhanced police staffing and coordination with local businesses.
• Additional recreational, employment and engagement programs for Raleigh youth.

Chief Boyce told council members that Raleigh must address both public safety and the need to connect young people with constructive programs. According to WUNC’s report on the meeting⁠, officials reported thousands of young people gathering across Brier Creek and Glenwood South, along with shootings, arrests and recovered firearms.

Mayor Janet Cowell explained that adopting a permanent curfew ordinance would take time. However, the mayor could potentially declare an emergency and establish temporary restrictions if similar circumstances arise before an ordinance is approved.

Council members unanimously directed the City Attorney to:

• Draft a proposed youth-curfew ordinance for the August 18 meeting.
• Prepare the legal documents needed for the mayor to declare an emergency if necessary.
• Return with additional recommendations for addressing large youth gatherings and related public-safety concerns.

A curfew has not yet been formally adopted. The public should expect the proposal—and questions about enforcement, youth services and potential impacts—to return to the council on August 18.

Six Annexation Requests Approved

Council unanimously approved the following annexation petitions:

• AX-42-25: 6101 and 6019 Hillsborough Street in District D.
• AX-03-26: 3225 Rock Quarry Road in District C.
• AX-12-26: Properties along Garner Road and Wilson Street in District C.
• AX-13-26: Properties on Rock Quarry Road and Diamond Drive in District C.
• AX-16-26: 2421, 2425 and 2429 National Avenue in District C.
• AX-37-25: Multiple properties along Jones Ridge Trail and 4205 Aquarius Lane, which will become part of District B.

Annexation brings properties into Raleigh’s municipal boundaries, making them subject to city regulations and generally eligible for city services.

Five Rezoning Cases Approved

Council also unanimously approved five rezoning requests:

• Z-50-24: Garner Road, approximately 800 feet south of Newcombe Road in District C.
• Z-44-25: Jones Ridge Trail, north of Louisburg Road and Lillie Liles Road.
• Z-46-25: 523 South West Street in downtown Raleigh, at West Lenoir and South West streets.
• Z-57-25: 8020 Litchford Road, approximately 0.27 miles south of Interstate 540.
• Z-11-26: 3901 Stratford Court, south of Lakestone Drive in District E.

Council also approved TCZ-02-26, a change to zoning conditions for 4601 Creedmoor Road at the intersection of Creedmoor Road and Glenwood Avenue.

Upcoming Raleigh Rezoning Hearings

Several development cases are scheduled—or have been requested—for public hearings on August 18 at 1 p.m.

Scheduled for August 18

• Z-39-25: 319 Heck Street in District C. This hearing remains open from June 16.
• TC-1-26: School Lot Area Amendment.
• Z-51-25: 4804 and 4808 Spring Forest Road in District B.
• Z-54-25: Properties along Leesville and Shady Grove roads in District E.
• Z-08-26: 5525 and 5605 Rock Quarry Road in District C.
• Z-16-26: 308 North Boylan Avenue in District D.
• CP-01-26: Old Crews Road Comprehensive Plan Amendment in District B.

Applicants have also requested that the following cases be considered on August 18:

• Z-19-25: 405 and 416 Dorothea Drive in District D.
• Z-12-26: Rock Quarry Road in District C.
• Z-14-26: Gorman Street Assemblage in District D.

Scheduled for September 1

• Z-9-26: 5925 Glenwood Avenue in District E.
• Z-18-26: 6904 and 0 Poole Road in District C.

Residents living near these properties can review the proposals and participate in the scheduled public hearings.

Advisory Board Bylaws Updated

Council adopted revised bylaws for four city boards and commissions:

• Substance Use Advisory Commission
• Police Advisory Board
• Human Relations Commission
• Raleigh Commission of Persons with Disabilities

The council also approved an updated mission statement for the Substance Use Advisory Commission.

Subdivision Regulations Move Forward

Council unanimously authorized work on text amendments involving exempt and minor subdivisions.

The amendments would incorporate North Carolina’s subdivision exemption for qualifying small developments and establish a minor-subdivision review process. The proposed changes will move through Raleigh’s standard public review and adoption process before becoming final.

Parks Advisory Board Work Plan Approved

Council unanimously approved the Parks, Recreation and Greenway Advisory Board’s fiscal year 2027 annual work plan.

The plan will help guide the board’s review of parks, recreation facilities, greenways and related policies during the coming fiscal year.

City Attorney Explains E-Bike, Moped and Motorcycle Rules

The City Attorney’s Office presented an overview of the legal differences among electric bicycles, mopeds and motorcycles.

The presentation addressed where each type of vehicle may legally operate, along with current education and enforcement efforts. City staff also outlined possible steps to help residents better understand the rules and promote safer use.

What Residents Raised During Public Comment

Evening-session speakers addressed several community concerns, including:

• Safety and quality-of-life issues in Glenwood South.
• Programs and opportunities for Raleigh youth.
• Enforcement of the city’s noise ordinance.
• The future of the historic Oberlin and Method communities.
• Rezoning case Z-43-25.

Seven of the ten registered speakers appeared before the council.

District D Meetings Announced

Councilor Jane Harrison Jones announced two upcoming community events:

• A District D-wide meeting on August 12 from 6 to 8 p.m. at La Cucina Italian Restaurant.
• A book club meeting on July 11 from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. at New World Café.

Residents should confirm event details before attending, particularly when viewing this recap after the listed dates.

What Happens Next?

The August 18 Raleigh City Council meeting could be especially important. Council is expected to consider a proposed youth-curfew ordinance, additional responses to large youth gatherings and numerous rezoning and development cases.

The debate will likely center on how Raleigh can improve public safety while expanding positive opportunities for young people and protecting civil liberties.

Residents can review the official Raleigh City Council agenda and background materials⁠.

Follow DoRaleigh.com for everything Raleigh, including City Council coverage, government meetings, development news and community events.

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GalaxyCon Raleigh 2026 Guide: Guests Tickets, Hours and Parking

GalaxyCon Raleigh returns to downtown Raleigh from Thursday, July 23, through Sunday, July 26, 2026. The four-day pop-culture convention brings celebrity guests, voice actors, comic creators, professional wrestlers, cosplay, gaming, vendors and late-night entertainment to the Raleigh Convention Center.

Whether you’re attending for one day or spending the entire weekend downtown, this guide covers the essential details you need before visiting GalaxyCon Raleigh 2026.

GalaxyCon Raleigh 2026: Essential Information

• Dates: Thursday, July 23–Sunday, July 26, 2026
• Location: Raleigh Convention Center
• Address: 500 S. Salisbury St., Raleigh, NC 27601
• Admission: Ticket required
• Official website: GalaxyCon Raleigh⁠

GalaxyCon Raleigh 2026 Hours

GalaxyCon offers programming throughout the day and late into the night. The convention’s published operating hours are:

• Thursday: 2 p.m.–1 a.m.
• Friday: 10 a.m.–1 a.m.
• Saturday: 10 a.m.–1 a.m.
• Sunday: 10 a.m.–8 p.m.

The exhibit hall closes earlier:

• Thursday: 2–8 p.m.
• Friday: 10 a.m.–8 p.m.
• Saturday: 10 a.m.–8 p.m.
• Sunday: 10 a.m.–6 p.m.

These separate hours are important if shopping, Artist Alley or vendor booths are among your priorities. View the official event information⁠.

GalaxyCon Raleigh 2026 Celebrity Guests

The 2026 guest lineup includes performers from major science-fiction, superhero, horror, comedy, television and movie franchises.

Scheduled celebrity highlights include:

• Hayden Christensen — Friday and Saturday
• Rosario Dawson — Saturday and Sunday
• Ke Huy Quan — Friday and Saturday
• Karl Urban — Friday, Saturday and Sunday
• JC Chasez — Friday and Saturday
• Vincent D’Onofrio — Friday, Saturday and Sunday
• William Shatner — Friday and Saturday
• Ralph Macchio — Friday, Saturday and Sunday
• Rainn Wilson — Saturday and Sunday
• Angela Kinsey — Saturday and Sunday
• Cheech Marin — Friday and Saturday
• Tommy Chong — Friday and Saturday
• Lizzy Caplan — Saturday and Sunday
• Pam Grier — all four days
• Skeet Ulrich — Saturday and Sunday
• David Arquette — Friday, Saturday and Sunday
• Rose McGowan — Friday, Saturday and Sunday

Guest appearances are limited to specific days and can change because of professional obligations. Review the official GalaxyCon Raleigh guest list⁠ before purchasing a pass for a particular celebrity.

Voice Actors, Wrestling Stars and Creators

GalaxyCon Raleigh extends beyond film and television celebrities. The guest list also features popular voice actors, comic-book creators, cosplay personalities and professional wrestlers.

Scheduled voice actors include Tara Strong, Christopher Sabat, Colleen Clinkenbeard, Johnny Yong Bosch, Zach Aguilar, Sarah Natochenny, Taliesin Jaffe, Liam O’Brien, Sam Riegel, Ray Chase, Robbie Daymond and Max Mittelman.

Professional wrestling guests include Chris Jericho, Adam Scherr—known to wrestling fans as Braun Strowman—Mick Foley, The Godfather, Jake “The Snake” Roberts, Gangrel and Jimmy Hart.

Because each guest has an individual appearance schedule, confirm the correct day before finalizing your plans.

GalaxyCon Raleigh Ticket Prices

Published single-day admission prices are:

• Thursday: $45
• Friday: $65
• Saturday: $80
• Sunday: $70
• Four-day pass: $155
• Four-day Deluxe pass: $180
• Four-day VIP pass: $465

Single-day passes generally provide admission from opening until closing on the selected day. Certain VIP events, premium celebrity experiences, autographs and professional photo opportunities require separate purchases.

Children ages 5–9 receive free admission on Thursday and Friday. Saturday and Sunday children’s passes are listed at $20 per day. Prices and availability can change, so check the official GalaxyCon Raleigh ticket page⁠ before buying.

Autographs and Celebrity Photo Opportunities

A general admission badge does not automatically include celebrity autographs or professional photo opportunities. These are typically sold separately, and prices vary by guest.

Before purchasing, check:

• The guest’s scheduled appearance days
• Autograph and photo-op prices
• Whether advance reservations are available
• The professional photo-op schedule
• Any restrictions on personal items or photography
• Whether the experience requires an additional event ticket

Popular guests may sell out, so advance planning is recommended.

Panels and Special Events

GalaxyCon programming includes celebrity question-and-answer sessions, fan panels, workshops, costume events and after-dark entertainment.

A featured Friday program is An Evening with Hayden Christensen, an exclusive question-and-answer session scheduled for 8:30 p.m. on the Main Stage. General admission reservations are listed as free, while priority packages and premium experiences cost extra. Convention admission is still required. Review GalaxyCon’s special-event information⁠.

Some special events are included with admission when seating is available. Others require separate tickets. Read the terms carefully before purchasing an upgrade.

Cosplay at GalaxyCon Raleigh

Cosplay is one of the convention’s biggest attractions. Attendees can expect elaborate costumes, meetups, photo opportunities and competitions throughout the weekend.

If you plan to cosplay:

• Review the convention’s costume and prop policies
• Choose footwear suitable for long periods of walking
• Carry a repair kit for last-minute costume problems
• Avoid blocking hallways while taking photographs
• Ask permission before photographing another attendee
• Allow extra time for security screening

The GalaxyCon Raleigh cosplay competition is scheduled for Thursday, July 23. Competition participants must also hold a valid admission ticket.

Video and Tabletop Gaming

GalaxyCon’s gaming area features more than 50 gaming stations, a Japanese-style arcade, retro games, casual play and competitions such as Super Smash Bros. Ultimate and Street Fighter 6. Explore the official gaming information⁠.

Tabletop programming and premium tournaments may take place in nearby partner hotels. Some gaming packages only grant access to designated gaming areas and do not include admission to the Raleigh Convention Center. Check exactly what a ticket includes before buying.

Vendors, Artist Alley and Collectibles

The exhibit hall is a major part of the GalaxyCon experience. Visitors can shop for:

• Original artwork
• Comics and graphic novels
• Collectibles
• Anime merchandise
• Clothing and accessories
• Handmade crafts
• Toys and games
• Autographed memorabilia

Popular merchandise can sell out early. Serious collectors should consider arriving near the exhibit hall’s opening time.

Getting to the Raleigh Convention Center

The Raleigh Convention Center is located at 500 S. Salisbury St. in downtown Raleigh.

Nearby public parking decks include facilities on:

• Lenoir Street between Salisbury and Fayetteville streets
• Lenoir Street between Salisbury and McDowell streets
• Davie Street between McDowell and Dawson streets
• Cabarrus Street between McDowell and Dawson streets
• Salisbury Street between Cabarrus and Davie streets

Accessible parking is available on the first level of each listed garage. Parking rates are set by the garage operators, not the Convention Center.

Drivers should also note that construction-related closures and detours are affecting the area around the Convention Center. The westbound Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard exit ramp to northbound McDowell Street is scheduled to remain closed through December 31, 2026. Check current directions and parking information⁠ before leaving home.

Public Transportation

The R-LINE downtown circulator stops near the Raleigh Convention Center. Raleigh Union Station is also located downtown and serves Amtrak’s Piedmont and Carolinian routes.

Public transportation, rideshare services or parking farther from the venue may help visitors avoid congestion during the busiest periods.

Accessibility Information

The Raleigh Convention Center provides accessible entrances, elevators, restrooms and parking accommodations. Visitors with specific accessibility needs should review venue information in advance and contact the convention when additional assistance is required.

Crowds can be especially heavy on Saturday. Attending Thursday, Friday morning or Sunday may offer a more manageable experience for visitors who prefer lighter crowds.

What to Bring to GalaxyCon Raleigh

Consider packing:

• Admission badge or ticket confirmation
• Government-issued identification
• Portable phone charger
• Refillable water bottle, if permitted
• Comfortable shoes
• Small cosplay repair kit
• Protective folder or tube for artwork
• Backpack or tote that complies with event policies
• Autograph items
• A planned schedule saved to your phone

Review GalaxyCon’s current safety and bag policies before arriving.

Tips for Attending GalaxyCon Raleigh 2026

Build Your Schedule Before Arriving

Identify your highest-priority guests, panels and photo opportunities first. Leave time between activities for lines and travel through the venue.

Confirm Every Guest’s Appearance Day

A four-day event does not mean every guest appears for all four days. Choose your ticket based on the people and programs you most want to see.

Arrive Early

Security, badge pickup and parking can take time, particularly on Saturday. Arriving early reduces the chance of missing a scheduled panel or photo opportunity.

Budget Beyond Admission

Your total cost may include parking, food, merchandise, autographs, photo opportunities and special-event upgrades.

Expect Downtown Raleigh to Be Busy

GalaxyCon draws large crowds into the city center. Restaurants and parking facilities near the Convention Center may be especially busy, so make reservations when possible.

Is GalaxyCon Raleigh Family-Friendly?

Much of the daytime convention programming is appropriate for families, including cosplay, gaming, vendors and many panels. However, some evening programs are designed for mature audiences.

Parents should review individual program descriptions and age restrictions before attending late-night events with children.

Plan Your GalaxyCon Raleigh Weekend

GalaxyCon Raleigh is one of downtown Raleigh’s largest annual entertainment events. With major celebrity appearances, gaming, cosplay, comics, vendors and programming that continues into the night, planning ahead can make a significant difference.

Purchase the appropriate pass, confirm guest schedules and special-event requirements, and allow extra time for downtown traffic, parking and admission lines.

Schedules, guests and prices are subject to change. Always verify details through GalaxyCon before attending.

Follow DoRaleigh.com for everything Raleigh.

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GalaxyCon Raleigh 2026 Guide: Guests Tickets, Hours and Parking

GalaxyCon Raleigh returns to downtown Raleigh from Thursday, July 23, through Sunday, July 26, 2026. The four-day pop-culture convention brings celebrity guests, voice actors, comic creators, professional wrestlers, cosplay, gaming, vendors and late-night entertainment to the Raleigh Convention Center.

Whether you’re attending for one day or spending the entire weekend downtown, this guide covers the essential details you need before visiting GalaxyCon Raleigh 2026.

GalaxyCon Raleigh 2026: Essential Information

• Dates: Thursday, July 23–Sunday, July 26, 2026
• Location: Raleigh Convention Center
• Address: 500 S. Salisbury St., Raleigh, NC 27601
• Admission: Ticket required
• Official website: GalaxyCon Raleigh⁠

GalaxyCon Raleigh 2026 Hours

GalaxyCon offers programming throughout the day and late into the night. The convention’s published operating hours are:

• Thursday: 2 p.m.–1 a.m.
• Friday: 10 a.m.–1 a.m.
• Saturday: 10 a.m.–1 a.m.
• Sunday: 10 a.m.–8 p.m.

The exhibit hall closes earlier:

• Thursday: 2–8 p.m.
• Friday: 10 a.m.–8 p.m.
• Saturday: 10 a.m.–8 p.m.
• Sunday: 10 a.m.–6 p.m.

These separate hours are important if shopping, Artist Alley or vendor booths are among your priorities. View the official event information⁠.

GalaxyCon Raleigh 2026 Celebrity Guests

The 2026 guest lineup includes performers from major science-fiction, superhero, horror, comedy, television and movie franchises.

Scheduled celebrity highlights include:

• Hayden Christensen — Friday and Saturday
• Rosario Dawson — Saturday and Sunday
• Ke Huy Quan — Friday and Saturday
• Karl Urban — Friday, Saturday and Sunday
• JC Chasez — Friday and Saturday
• Vincent D’Onofrio — Friday, Saturday and Sunday
• William Shatner — Friday and Saturday
• Ralph Macchio — Friday, Saturday and Sunday
• Rainn Wilson — Saturday and Sunday
• Angela Kinsey — Saturday and Sunday
• Cheech Marin — Friday and Saturday
• Tommy Chong — Friday and Saturday
• Lizzy Caplan — Saturday and Sunday
• Pam Grier — all four days
• Skeet Ulrich — Saturday and Sunday
• David Arquette — Friday, Saturday and Sunday
• Rose McGowan — Friday, Saturday and Sunday

Guest appearances are limited to specific days and can change because of professional obligations. Review the official GalaxyCon Raleigh guest list⁠ before purchasing a pass for a particular celebrity.

Voice Actors, Wrestling Stars and Creators

GalaxyCon Raleigh extends beyond film and television celebrities. The guest list also features popular voice actors, comic-book creators, cosplay personalities and professional wrestlers.

Scheduled voice actors include Tara Strong, Christopher Sabat, Colleen Clinkenbeard, Johnny Yong Bosch, Zach Aguilar, Sarah Natochenny, Taliesin Jaffe, Liam O’Brien, Sam Riegel, Ray Chase, Robbie Daymond and Max Mittelman.

Professional wrestling guests include Chris Jericho, Adam Scherr—known to wrestling fans as Braun Strowman—Mick Foley, The Godfather, Jake “The Snake” Roberts, Gangrel and Jimmy Hart.

Because each guest has an individual appearance schedule, confirm the correct day before finalizing your plans.

GalaxyCon Raleigh Ticket Prices

Published single-day admission prices are:

• Thursday: $45
• Friday: $65
• Saturday: $80
• Sunday: $70
• Four-day pass: $155
• Four-day Deluxe pass: $180
• Four-day VIP pass: $465

Single-day passes generally provide admission from opening until closing on the selected day. Certain VIP events, premium celebrity experiences, autographs and professional photo opportunities require separate purchases.

Children ages 5–9 receive free admission on Thursday and Friday. Saturday and Sunday children’s passes are listed at $20 per day. Prices and availability can change, so check the official GalaxyCon Raleigh ticket page⁠ before buying.

Autographs and Celebrity Photo Opportunities

A general admission badge does not automatically include celebrity autographs or professional photo opportunities. These are typically sold separately, and prices vary by guest.

Before purchasing, check:

• The guest’s scheduled appearance days
• Autograph and photo-op prices
• Whether advance reservations are available
• The professional photo-op schedule
• Any restrictions on personal items or photography
• Whether the experience requires an additional event ticket

Popular guests may sell out, so advance planning is recommended.

Panels and Special Events

GalaxyCon programming includes celebrity question-and-answer sessions, fan panels, workshops, costume events and after-dark entertainment.

A featured Friday program is An Evening with Hayden Christensen, an exclusive question-and-answer session scheduled for 8:30 p.m. on the Main Stage. General admission reservations are listed as free, while priority packages and premium experiences cost extra. Convention admission is still required. Review GalaxyCon’s special-event information⁠.

Some special events are included with admission when seating is available. Others require separate tickets. Read the terms carefully before purchasing an upgrade.

Cosplay at GalaxyCon Raleigh

Cosplay is one of the convention’s biggest attractions. Attendees can expect elaborate costumes, meetups, photo opportunities and competitions throughout the weekend.

If you plan to cosplay:

• Review the convention’s costume and prop policies
• Choose footwear suitable for long periods of walking
• Carry a repair kit for last-minute costume problems
• Avoid blocking hallways while taking photographs
• Ask permission before photographing another attendee
• Allow extra time for security screening

The GalaxyCon Raleigh cosplay competition is scheduled for Thursday, July 23. Competition participants must also hold a valid admission ticket.

Video and Tabletop Gaming

GalaxyCon’s gaming area features more than 50 gaming stations, a Japanese-style arcade, retro games, casual play and competitions such as Super Smash Bros. Ultimate and Street Fighter 6. Explore the official gaming information⁠.

Tabletop programming and premium tournaments may take place in nearby partner hotels. Some gaming packages only grant access to designated gaming areas and do not include admission to the Raleigh Convention Center. Check exactly what a ticket includes before buying.

Vendors, Artist Alley and Collectibles

The exhibit hall is a major part of the GalaxyCon experience. Visitors can shop for:

• Original artwork
• Comics and graphic novels
• Collectibles
• Anime merchandise
• Clothing and accessories
• Handmade crafts
• Toys and games
• Autographed memorabilia

Popular merchandise can sell out early. Serious collectors should consider arriving near the exhibit hall’s opening time.

Getting to the Raleigh Convention Center

The Raleigh Convention Center is located at 500 S. Salisbury St. in downtown Raleigh.

Nearby public parking decks include facilities on:

• Lenoir Street between Salisbury and Fayetteville streets
• Lenoir Street between Salisbury and McDowell streets
• Davie Street between McDowell and Dawson streets
• Cabarrus Street between McDowell and Dawson streets
• Salisbury Street between Cabarrus and Davie streets

Accessible parking is available on the first level of each listed garage. Parking rates are set by the garage operators, not the Convention Center.

Drivers should also note that construction-related closures and detours are affecting the area around the Convention Center. The westbound Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard exit ramp to northbound McDowell Street is scheduled to remain closed through December 31, 2026. Check current directions and parking information⁠ before leaving home.

Public Transportation

The R-LINE downtown circulator stops near the Raleigh Convention Center. Raleigh Union Station is also located downtown and serves Amtrak’s Piedmont and Carolinian routes.

Public transportation, rideshare services or parking farther from the venue may help visitors avoid congestion during the busiest periods.

Accessibility Information

The Raleigh Convention Center provides accessible entrances, elevators, restrooms and parking accommodations. Visitors with specific accessibility needs should review venue information in advance and contact the convention when additional assistance is required.

Crowds can be especially heavy on Saturday. Attending Thursday, Friday morning or Sunday may offer a more manageable experience for visitors who prefer lighter crowds.

What to Bring to GalaxyCon Raleigh

Consider packing:

• Admission badge or ticket confirmation
• Government-issued identification
• Portable phone charger
• Refillable water bottle, if permitted
• Comfortable shoes
• Small cosplay repair kit
• Protective folder or tube for artwork
• Backpack or tote that complies with event policies
• Autograph items
• A planned schedule saved to your phone

Review GalaxyCon’s current safety and bag policies before arriving.

Tips for Attending GalaxyCon Raleigh 2026

Build Your Schedule Before Arriving

Identify your highest-priority guests, panels and photo opportunities first. Leave time between activities for lines and travel through the venue.

Confirm Every Guest’s Appearance Day

A four-day event does not mean every guest appears for all four days. Choose your ticket based on the people and programs you most want to see.

Arrive Early

Security, badge pickup and parking can take time, particularly on Saturday. Arriving early reduces the chance of missing a scheduled panel or photo opportunity.

Budget Beyond Admission

Your total cost may include parking, food, merchandise, autographs, photo opportunities and special-event upgrades.

Expect Downtown Raleigh to Be Busy

GalaxyCon draws large crowds into the city center. Restaurants and parking facilities near the Convention Center may be especially busy, so make reservations when possible.

Is GalaxyCon Raleigh Family-Friendly?

Much of the daytime convention programming is appropriate for families, including cosplay, gaming, vendors and many panels. However, some evening programs are designed for mature audiences.

Parents should review individual program descriptions and age restrictions before attending late-night events with children.

Plan Your GalaxyCon Raleigh Weekend

GalaxyCon Raleigh is one of downtown Raleigh’s largest annual entertainment events. With major celebrity appearances, gaming, cosplay, comics, vendors and programming that continues into the night, planning ahead can make a significant difference.

Purchase the appropriate pass, confirm guest schedules and special-event requirements, and allow extra time for downtown traffic, parking and admission lines.

Schedules, guests and prices are subject to change. Always verify details through GalaxyCon before attending.

Follow DoRaleigh.com for everything Raleigh.

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GalaxyCon Raleigh 2026 Guide: Guests Tickets, Hours and Parking

GalaxyCon Raleigh returns to downtown Raleigh from Thursday, July 23, through Sunday, July 26, 2026. The four-day pop-culture convention brings celebrity guests, voice actors, comic creators, professional wrestlers, cosplay, gaming, vendors and late-night entertainment to the Raleigh Convention Center.

Whether you’re attending for one day or spending the entire weekend downtown, this guide covers the essential details you need before visiting GalaxyCon Raleigh 2026.

GalaxyCon Raleigh 2026: Essential Information

• Dates: Thursday, July 23–Sunday, July 26, 2026
• Location: Raleigh Convention Center
• Address: 500 S. Salisbury St., Raleigh, NC 27601
• Admission: Ticket required
• Official website: GalaxyCon Raleigh⁠

GalaxyCon Raleigh 2026 Hours

GalaxyCon offers programming throughout the day and late into the night. The convention’s published operating hours are:

• Thursday: 2 p.m.–1 a.m.
• Friday: 10 a.m.–1 a.m.
• Saturday: 10 a.m.–1 a.m.
• Sunday: 10 a.m.–8 p.m.

The exhibit hall closes earlier:

• Thursday: 2–8 p.m.
• Friday: 10 a.m.–8 p.m.
• Saturday: 10 a.m.–8 p.m.
• Sunday: 10 a.m.–6 p.m.

These separate hours are important if shopping, Artist Alley or vendor booths are among your priorities. View the official event information⁠.

GalaxyCon Raleigh 2026 Celebrity Guests

The 2026 guest lineup includes performers from major science-fiction, superhero, horror, comedy, television and movie franchises.

Scheduled celebrity highlights include:

• Hayden Christensen — Friday and Saturday
• Rosario Dawson — Saturday and Sunday
• Ke Huy Quan — Friday and Saturday
• Karl Urban — Friday, Saturday and Sunday
• JC Chasez — Friday and Saturday
• Vincent D’Onofrio — Friday, Saturday and Sunday
• William Shatner — Friday and Saturday
• Ralph Macchio — Friday, Saturday and Sunday
• Rainn Wilson — Saturday and Sunday
• Angela Kinsey — Saturday and Sunday
• Cheech Marin — Friday and Saturday
• Tommy Chong — Friday and Saturday
• Lizzy Caplan — Saturday and Sunday
• Pam Grier — all four days
• Skeet Ulrich — Saturday and Sunday
• David Arquette — Friday, Saturday and Sunday
• Rose McGowan — Friday, Saturday and Sunday

Guest appearances are limited to specific days and can change because of professional obligations. Review the official GalaxyCon Raleigh guest list⁠ before purchasing a pass for a particular celebrity.

Voice Actors, Wrestling Stars and Creators

GalaxyCon Raleigh extends beyond film and television celebrities. The guest list also features popular voice actors, comic-book creators, cosplay personalities and professional wrestlers.

Scheduled voice actors include Tara Strong, Christopher Sabat, Colleen Clinkenbeard, Johnny Yong Bosch, Zach Aguilar, Sarah Natochenny, Taliesin Jaffe, Liam O’Brien, Sam Riegel, Ray Chase, Robbie Daymond and Max Mittelman.

Professional wrestling guests include Chris Jericho, Adam Scherr—known to wrestling fans as Braun Strowman—Mick Foley, The Godfather, Jake “The Snake” Roberts, Gangrel and Jimmy Hart.

Because each guest has an individual appearance schedule, confirm the correct day before finalizing your plans.

GalaxyCon Raleigh Ticket Prices

Published single-day admission prices are:

• Thursday: $45
• Friday: $65
• Saturday: $80
• Sunday: $70
• Four-day pass: $155
• Four-day Deluxe pass: $180
• Four-day VIP pass: $465

Single-day passes generally provide admission from opening until closing on the selected day. Certain VIP events, premium celebrity experiences, autographs and professional photo opportunities require separate purchases.

Children ages 5–9 receive free admission on Thursday and Friday. Saturday and Sunday children’s passes are listed at $20 per day. Prices and availability can change, so check the official GalaxyCon Raleigh ticket page⁠ before buying.

Autographs and Celebrity Photo Opportunities

A general admission badge does not automatically include celebrity autographs or professional photo opportunities. These are typically sold separately, and prices vary by guest.

Before purchasing, check:

• The guest’s scheduled appearance days
• Autograph and photo-op prices
• Whether advance reservations are available
• The professional photo-op schedule
• Any restrictions on personal items or photography
• Whether the experience requires an additional event ticket

Popular guests may sell out, so advance planning is recommended.

Panels and Special Events

GalaxyCon programming includes celebrity question-and-answer sessions, fan panels, workshops, costume events and after-dark entertainment.

A featured Friday program is An Evening with Hayden Christensen, an exclusive question-and-answer session scheduled for 8:30 p.m. on the Main Stage. General admission reservations are listed as free, while priority packages and premium experiences cost extra. Convention admission is still required. Review GalaxyCon’s special-event information⁠.

Some special events are included with admission when seating is available. Others require separate tickets. Read the terms carefully before purchasing an upgrade.

Cosplay at GalaxyCon Raleigh

Cosplay is one of the convention’s biggest attractions. Attendees can expect elaborate costumes, meetups, photo opportunities and competitions throughout the weekend.

If you plan to cosplay:

• Review the convention’s costume and prop policies
• Choose footwear suitable for long periods of walking
• Carry a repair kit for last-minute costume problems
• Avoid blocking hallways while taking photographs
• Ask permission before photographing another attendee
• Allow extra time for security screening

The GalaxyCon Raleigh cosplay competition is scheduled for Thursday, July 23. Competition participants must also hold a valid admission ticket.

Video and Tabletop Gaming

GalaxyCon’s gaming area features more than 50 gaming stations, a Japanese-style arcade, retro games, casual play and competitions such as Super Smash Bros. Ultimate and Street Fighter 6. Explore the official gaming information⁠.

Tabletop programming and premium tournaments may take place in nearby partner hotels. Some gaming packages only grant access to designated gaming areas and do not include admission to the Raleigh Convention Center. Check exactly what a ticket includes before buying.

Vendors, Artist Alley and Collectibles

The exhibit hall is a major part of the GalaxyCon experience. Visitors can shop for:

• Original artwork
• Comics and graphic novels
• Collectibles
• Anime merchandise
• Clothing and accessories
• Handmade crafts
• Toys and games
• Autographed memorabilia

Popular merchandise can sell out early. Serious collectors should consider arriving near the exhibit hall’s opening time.

Getting to the Raleigh Convention Center

The Raleigh Convention Center is located at 500 S. Salisbury St. in downtown Raleigh.

Nearby public parking decks include facilities on:

• Lenoir Street between Salisbury and Fayetteville streets
• Lenoir Street between Salisbury and McDowell streets
• Davie Street between McDowell and Dawson streets
• Cabarrus Street between McDowell and Dawson streets
• Salisbury Street between Cabarrus and Davie streets

Accessible parking is available on the first level of each listed garage. Parking rates are set by the garage operators, not the Convention Center.

Drivers should also note that construction-related closures and detours are affecting the area around the Convention Center. The westbound Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard exit ramp to northbound McDowell Street is scheduled to remain closed through December 31, 2026. Check current directions and parking information⁠ before leaving home.

Public Transportation

The R-LINE downtown circulator stops near the Raleigh Convention Center. Raleigh Union Station is also located downtown and serves Amtrak’s Piedmont and Carolinian routes.

Public transportation, rideshare services or parking farther from the venue may help visitors avoid congestion during the busiest periods.

Accessibility Information

The Raleigh Convention Center provides accessible entrances, elevators, restrooms and parking accommodations. Visitors with specific accessibility needs should review venue information in advance and contact the convention when additional assistance is required.

Crowds can be especially heavy on Saturday. Attending Thursday, Friday morning or Sunday may offer a more manageable experience for visitors who prefer lighter crowds.

What to Bring to GalaxyCon Raleigh

Consider packing:

• Admission badge or ticket confirmation
• Government-issued identification
• Portable phone charger
• Refillable water bottle, if permitted
• Comfortable shoes
• Small cosplay repair kit
• Protective folder or tube for artwork
• Backpack or tote that complies with event policies
• Autograph items
• A planned schedule saved to your phone

Review GalaxyCon’s current safety and bag policies before arriving.

Tips for Attending GalaxyCon Raleigh 2026

Build Your Schedule Before Arriving

Identify your highest-priority guests, panels and photo opportunities first. Leave time between activities for lines and travel through the venue.

Confirm Every Guest’s Appearance Day

A four-day event does not mean every guest appears for all four days. Choose your ticket based on the people and programs you most want to see.

Arrive Early

Security, badge pickup and parking can take time, particularly on Saturday. Arriving early reduces the chance of missing a scheduled panel or photo opportunity.

Budget Beyond Admission

Your total cost may include parking, food, merchandise, autographs, photo opportunities and special-event upgrades.

Expect Downtown Raleigh to Be Busy

GalaxyCon draws large crowds into the city center. Restaurants and parking facilities near the Convention Center may be especially busy, so make reservations when possible.

Is GalaxyCon Raleigh Family-Friendly?

Much of the daytime convention programming is appropriate for families, including cosplay, gaming, vendors and many panels. However, some evening programs are designed for mature audiences.

Parents should review individual program descriptions and age restrictions before attending late-night events with children.

Plan Your GalaxyCon Raleigh Weekend

GalaxyCon Raleigh is one of downtown Raleigh’s largest annual entertainment events. With major celebrity appearances, gaming, cosplay, comics, vendors and programming that continues into the night, planning ahead can make a significant difference.

Purchase the appropriate pass, confirm guest schedules and special-event requirements, and allow extra time for downtown traffic, parking and admission lines.

Schedules, guests and prices are subject to change. Always verify details through GalaxyCon before attending.

Follow DoRaleigh.com for everything Raleigh.

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City of Raleigh Government Guide July 23rd Edition

Raleigh residents interested in historic preservation and local development can follow the work of the Raleigh Historic Development Commission’s Certificate of Appropriateness Committee on Thursday, July 23, 2026.

The committee reviews proposed exterior changes and other projects affecting properties located within Raleigh’s historic overlay districts and designated historic landmarks.

RHDC Certificate of Appropriateness Committee Meeting

• Date: Thursday, July 23, 2026
• Time: 5 p.m.
• Category: Boards and Commissions
• Committee: Raleigh Historic Development Commission Certificate of Appropriateness Committee

The Certificate of Appropriateness Committee evaluates certain applications involving alterations, construction, demolition and site improvements associated with historically significant properties.

Its work helps determine whether proposed changes are consistent with Raleigh’s historic preservation standards and the architectural character of protected properties and districts.

Why This Raleigh Meeting Matters

Historic preservation decisions can influence neighborhood character, development plans and how Raleigh balances growth with the protection of its architectural history.

Residents may want to follow this meeting if they:

• Own property in a Raleigh historic district
• Live near a designated historic landmark
• Are interested in preservation or architecture
• Want to understand how proposed property changes are reviewed
• Follow Raleigh development and land-use decisions

Meeting details, locations and agendas may change. Visit the City of Raleigh’s official meetings calendar before attending or participating.

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John Chavis Aquatic Center Update: What Happened to Raleigh’s 2022 Parks Bond Promise?

When Raleigh voters overwhelmingly approved the $275 million Parks Bond in 2022, one of the most anticipated projects was a long-awaited aquatic center at John Chavis Memorial Park in Southeast Raleigh.

Nearly four years later, many residents are asking the same questions:

• Where is the aquatic center?
• Is the project still happening?
• Who is responsible for the delays?

Here’s what we know.

The Project Is Still Planned

Despite concerns from the community, the City of Raleigh says the John Chavis Aquatic Center has not been canceled.

According to the City’s project page, the aquatic center remains Phase 2 of the John Chavis Memorial Park Master Plan and is funded through the 2022 Parks Bond. The project includes:

• Indoor lap pool
• Therapy pool
• Outdoor recreation pool
• Lazy river
• Vortex play feature
• Two-story waterslide
• Heritage Plaza improvements
• Additional parking and public art 

The facility is designed to become one of Raleigh’s premier public aquatic destinations.

Why Hasn’t Construction Started?

The project is still in the planning and design phase.

Since voters approved the Parks Bond, the City has been:

• Completing engineering and architectural design
• Conducting community engagement
• Selecting public art
• Refining construction plans
• Preparing the project for bidding and construction 

Large public projects often spend several years in design before construction begins, particularly when they involve historic parks and complex recreational facilities.

Who Is Responsible?

The responsibility for delivering the project ultimately rests with the City of Raleigh Parks, Recreation and Cultural Resources Department, working alongside the Raleigh City Council, which oversees Parks Bond funding and capital improvement projects.

Because the aquatic center is a voter-approved Parks Bond project, City staff are responsible for:

• Managing design and engineering
• Hiring consultants and contractors
• Keeping the project within budget
• Reporting progress to City Council and the public 

Why This Project Matters

John Chavis Memorial Park is more than just another city park.

Opened in 1937 during segregation, it became one of the few recreational spaces available to Black families in North Carolina. The park’s historic swimming pool served generations of Southeast Raleigh residents before it was eventually removed during earlier renovations.

For many residents, bringing back a modern aquatic facility is about more than recreation—it’s about restoring an important community asset and honoring the park’s history. 

Community Questions Continue

Although the City continues to list the aquatic center as an active Parks Bond project, many residents want greater transparency regarding:

• An expected construction start date
• Estimated completion timeline
• Updated project costs
• Potential impacts from inflation
• Regular public progress reports

As one of the largest investments planned for Southeast Raleigh, many community members believe consistent communication is just as important as the construction itself.

What’s Next?

As of July 2026, the City of Raleigh continues to identify the John Chavis Aquatic Center as an active Parks Bond project, and planning work remains underway. While no opening date has been announced, the project is still expected to move forward as funding and design milestones are completed. 

DoRaleigh will continue monitoring City Council updates, Parks Bond reports, and project announcements to keep the community informed.

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Raleigh’s Next Wave of Development: What RTP 3.0, Downtown South, and the Depot Historic District Could Mean for Affordability in the Triangle

Raleigh is entering another major chapter of growth. Several high-profile development projects are moving forward that could reshape how people live, work, and spend time throughout the Triangle.

Supporters see these projects as investments that will bring new jobs, housing, entertainment, and public spaces. Critics, however, worry that continued redevelopment and rising property values could accelerate gentrification and make Raleigh even less affordable for longtime residents.

Here’s a look at three major projects that could influence the future of Raleigh.

RTP 3.0: Reimagining Research Triangle Park

Research Triangle Park is preparing for its next evolution through a long-term planning initiative known as RTP 3.0.

The initiative is designed to transform the traditional office park into a more connected community by exploring:

• Additional housing options
• Walkable neighborhoods
• Mixed-use development
• Public gathering spaces
• Improved transportation connections

While detailed development plans have not yet been released, RTP leaders say the goal is to create an environment where people can live, work, and socialize without relying entirely on cars.

Residents interested in learning more can attend the RTP 3.0 Lunch & Learn: Reimagine the Park on August 13.

Potential Impact

If successful, RTP 3.0 could diversify housing choices near one of the nation’s largest employment centers. However, increased demand around RTP may also place additional pressure on housing prices throughout Wake and Durham counties if affordability is not prioritized.

Depot Historic District: Blending History with Modern Development

Downtown Raleigh’s historic Depot area is also preparing for significant investment.

Plans include:

• A 170-room boutique hotel
• More than 30,000 square feet of street-level retail
• Outdoor gathering areas
• Public plazas
• Pedestrian-friendly connections between the Raleigh Convention Center and Red Hat Amphitheater
• Preservation of the historic 1912 Depot building

Developers say the project will strengthen downtown tourism while preserving an important piece of Raleigh’s history.

Potential Impact

The Depot Historic District could become another destination for visitors and residents alike, increasing foot traffic and economic activity. At the same time, nearby property values and commercial rents could continue to rise, raising concerns for existing small businesses and neighboring communities.

Downtown South Returns

After years of delays, Downtown South is once again moving forward.

The proposed mixed-use development near Dorothea Dix Park would include:

• New residential housing
• Office space
• Retail and restaurants
• Entertainment venues
• Public gathering spaces
• A new soccer stadium associated with the ownership group of the NC Courage

If construction begins, the project would dramatically reshape southern downtown Raleigh and create an entirely new urban district.

Potential Impact

Downtown South has the potential to generate significant economic activity and attract new businesses. However, nearby neighborhoods could also experience increasing housing costs and redevelopment pressures as investment expands beyond downtown.

What Does This Mean for Housing Affordability?

Large mixed-use developments often bring new housing, jobs, and amenities that strengthen a city’s economy. However, without a substantial supply of housing at a range of price points, increased demand can contribute to higher home prices and rents.

Some residents have expressed concern that continued redevelopment in Raleigh is accelerating gentrification and making it more difficult for longtime residents to remain in their neighborhoods. Others argue that adding more housing through projects like these can help accommodate growth over time.

The ultimate impact on affordability will depend on several factors, including:

• The amount and type of housing ultimately built
• Whether affordable housing is included
• Local zoning and land-use policies
• Regional population growth
• Infrastructure and transit investments

As these projects continue to evolve, they are likely to remain central topics in conversations about Raleigh’s future.

The Bottom Line

Raleigh continues to attract new residents, employers, and investment at a rapid pace. Projects like RTP 3.0, the Depot Historic District, and Downtown South represent significant opportunities for economic growth and urban transformation.

At the same time, they raise important questions about affordability, neighborhood preservation, and how the city balances growth with the needs of current residents.

As plans become more detailed, DoRaleigh.com will continue following these developments and what they could mean for the future of the Triangle.

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Raleigh City Council Recap – What Happened at the July 7, 2026 Meeting

The Raleigh City Council held its afternoon and evening sessions on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, addressing a wide range of topics affecting residents—from water conservation and public safety to development, annexations, and future rezonings.

Among the biggest issues discussed were the City’s response to the July 4 gatherings in Glenwood South and Brier Creek, proposed youth curfew measures, changes to Raleigh’s water restriction policies, and numerous land use decisions.

Here’s a breakdown of the meeting’s biggest developments.

City Council Approves Changes to Water Restriction Rules

One of the most significant actions taken was the approval of amendments to Raleigh’s Water Conservation Plan.

The changes give the City Manager greater flexibility to move Raleigh into stricter stages of water restrictions before reservoir levels reach existing percentage thresholds if current conservation measures are not successfully reducing water demand.

Additional changes include:

• Aligning civil penalties with the Raleigh City Code.
• Limiting athletic field irrigation to one day per week during Stage 2 Water Restrictions.
• Giving the City additional flexibility to respond during drought conditions.

The changes are designed to help Raleigh conserve water more effectively during periods of high demand.

Teen Takeovers Lead to Curfew Discussion

Much of the meeting focused on the large youth gatherings that occurred during the July 4 holiday in Glenwood South and Brier Creek.

Raleigh Police Chief Rico Boyce, Parks Director Stephen Bentley, and Community Engagement Manager Tiesha Moseley presented an overview of what occurred and discussed strategies to improve safety while balancing youth engagement.

Among the options being considered:

• A city-wide curfew for anyone 17 years old and younger
• Restrictions on backpacks during large gatherings
• Additional youth engagement programs
• Increased enforcement during major events

Mayor Janet Cowell noted that adopting a permanent curfew ordinance requires additional legal steps. However, she explained that she has emergency authority to implement temporary restrictions if public safety requires immediate action.

City Council unanimously directed the City Attorney to:

• Draft a proposed curfew ordinance for the August 18 City Council meeting
• Prepare emergency declaration procedures if immediate action becomes necessary
• Return with additional recommendations for addressing large youth gatherings

The discussion is expected to continue next month.

Six Annexations Approved

Council unanimously approved six annexation requests, including properties on:

• Hillsborough Street
• Rock Quarry Road
• Garner Road
• National Avenue
• Jones Ridge Trail area

These annexations will allow future development to proceed under City of Raleigh jurisdiction.

Six Development Requests Approved

Council also unanimously approved:

• Five rezoning requests
• One zoning text change

Approved rezonings included projects on:

• Garner Road
• Jones Ridge Trail
• South West Street
• Litchford Road
• Stratford Court

Council also approved a zoning condition text amendment affecting property at 4601 Creedmoor Road.

Future Public Hearings Scheduled

Several major planning cases were scheduled for upcoming meetings.

August 18 Public Hearings

• School Lot Area Amendment (TC-1-26)
• 319 Heck Street
• Spring Forest Road
• Leesville Road/Shady Grove Road
• Rock Quarry Road
• Boylan Avenue
• Old Crews Road Comprehensive Plan Amendment

Additional rezonings requested delayed scheduling until the August meeting.

September 1 Public Hearings

Public hearings are expected for:

• 5925 Glenwood Avenue
• 6904 Poole Road

Board and Commission Updates

Council approved revised bylaws for several advisory boards, including:

• Substance Use Advisory Commission
• Police Advisory Board
• Human Relations Commission
• Raleigh Commission of Persons with Disabilities

The Substance Use Advisory Commission also received an updated mission statement.

Minor Subdivision Rule Changes Approved

Council authorized staff to begin drafting amendments that would:

• Incorporate North Carolina’s new subdivision exemption for qualifying small subdivisions.
• Create a formal minor subdivision review process.

These changes will move through Raleigh’s normal public review process before final adoption.

Parks Advisory Board Work Plan Approved

Council unanimously approved the FY 2027 Parks, Recreation and Greenway Advisory Board Annual Work Plan, outlining priorities for Raleigh’s park system over the coming year.

Electric Bikes, Mopeds and Motorcycles Explained

The City Attorney’s Office also presented an educational overview explaining the legal differences between:

• Electric bicycles
• Mopeds
• Motorcycles

The presentation covered:

• Where each vehicle may legally operate
• Existing enforcement efforts
• Public education initiatives
• Future safety improvements

The discussion comes as Raleigh continues to see increased use of electric mobility devices throughout the city.

Public Comments

Residents spoke on several community issues during the evening public comment session.

Topics included:

• Glenwood South public safety
• Youth engagement
• Proposed noise ordinance concerns
• Oberlin and Method neighborhood issues
• Rezoning case Z-43-25

Three of the ten scheduled speakers did not appear.

Council Updates

Councilor Christina Jones announced:

• District-wide Community Meeting
  • August 12
  • 6–8 p.m.
  • La Cucina Italian Restaurant
• Book Club
  • July 11
  • 9:30–11:30 a.m.
  • New World Café

Key Takeaways

The July 7 meeting highlighted two major priorities for Raleigh:

• Responding to public safety concerns following July 4 gatherings through potential youth curfew measures and enhanced engagement efforts.
• Strengthening the City’s ability to respond to drought conditions by making water conservation rules more flexible.

Council also continued moving Raleigh’s growth forward by approving multiple annexations, rezonings, and planning initiatives while setting several additional development proposals for public hearings later this summer.

Stay with DoRaleigh.com for continuing coverage of Raleigh City Council meetings, local government decisions, zoning updates, and community news that impacts residents across the Triangle.

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Triangle Weekend Event Guide: The Best Things to Do July 10–12, 2026

Looking for the best free and affordable things to do around Raleigh, Durham, Cary, Chapel Hill, Apex, Wake Forest, Garner, Knightdale, Pittsboro, and beyond? We’ve rounded up some of the top events happening across the Triangle for the weekend of Friday, July 10 through Sunday, July 12, 2026.

From National French Fry Day deals and Free Slurpee Day, to outdoor concerts, farmers markets, movies, family activities, art walks, festivals, and live music, there’s something for everyone this weekend.

Friday, July 10 Highlights

Kick off the weekend with plenty of free fun across the Triangle.

Featured events include:

• 🍟 National French Fry Day freebies and restaurant deals
• 🌿 Friday Bird Walk at Lake Benson Park
• 🌸 Summer Open Garden Days at Plant Delights Nursery
• 🐢 Turtle Talk at Crowder County Park
• ☕ Free coffee tasting at Counter Culture Coffee in Durham
• 🍑 North Carolina Peach Day celebration at the State Farmers Market
• 🍷 Free wine and sake tastings
• 🎨 2nd Friday ArtWalk in Chapel Hill and Carrboro
• 🎶 Friday Night on White in Wake Forest
• 💃 Salsa at the Park in Knightdale
• 🎬 Free outdoor screening of Godzilla vs. Mothra at Moore Square
• 🎵 PLAYlist Concert Series in Durham
• 🌌 Friday Under the Stars Skywatching Event

Saturday, July 11 Highlights

Saturday is packed with festivals, markets, family activities, and outdoor entertainment.

Don’t miss:

• 🥤 Free Slurpee Day at participating 7-Eleven, Speedway, and Stripes stores
• 🚗 Car Showcase at Dorothea Dix Park
• 🌻 Sunflower Celebration at Dorothea Dix Park
• 🇫🇷 Bastille Day Celebration at Lafayette Village
• 🇫🇷 Bastille Day Market in Durham
• 🇺🇸 Raleigh’s All-American Summer Festival
• 🚒 Free admission to the Raleigh Fire Museum
• 🏛️ Free guided tours of the North Carolina State Capitol
• 🛍️ Raleigh Market at the State Fairgrounds
• 🎭 Historic Raleigh Trolley Tours
• 🎶 Durham Summer Concerts in the Park
• 🎸 Live music throughout Raleigh, Cary, Durham, Apex, Wake Forest, Holly Springs, and Pittsboro
• 🌙 Moth Night at Hollow Rock Nature Park

Sunday, July 12 Highlights

Wrap up the weekend with farmers markets, yoga, live music, and community events.

Featured events include:

• 🛍️ Raleigh Market
• 🥕 Black Farmers’ Market
• 🛒 Raleigh Underground Market
• 🧘 Sunday Morning Yoga
• 🎲 Board Games at Boxyard RTP
• 🎵 Morgan Street Sessions
• 🎨 Open Studio at the Nasher Museum
• 🎤 Open Mic Nights
• 🎼 Raleigh Concert Series at Fred Fletcher Park
• 🌅 Sundays at Sundown Live Music in Chapel Hill

Weekend Deals & Special Promotions

Take advantage of these limited-time offers while you’re out exploring the Triangle:

• National French Fry Day restaurant freebies and discounts on Friday.
• Free Slurpee Day at participating 7-Eleven, Speedway, and Stripes locations on Saturday.
• MyLowe’s Money Days promotion all weekend—spend qualifying amounts and earn rewards.
• Special brewery promotions, wine tastings, coffee tastings, and farmers market giveaways throughout the Triangle.

Plan Your Weekend with DoRaleigh

Whether you’re looking for family-friendly activities, free festivals, outdoor concerts, local markets, food events, or live entertainment, the Triangle has hundreds of opportunities to explore this weekend.

Be sure to bookmark DoRaleigh.com and check back daily for updated event guides, breaking local news, restaurant openings, community happenings, and everything taking place across Raleigh and the Triangle.

Have a great weekend!

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Trump Fires All Election Assistance Commission Members, Leaving Federal Election Agency Unable to Act

Just months before the 2026 midterm elections, President Donald Trump has removed the remaining members of the U.S. Election Assistance Commission (EAC), leaving the independent federal agency without the quorum required to carry out many of its responsibilities. (⁠Reuters)

The bipartisan Election Assistance Commission was created by the Help America Vote Act of 2002 to help states improve election administration, certify voting systems, accredit voting equipment testing laboratories, and maintain the national voter registration form.

According to multiple reports, one Republican commissioner resigned while two Democratic commissioners were dismissed by the White House, leaving the agency unable to conduct official business until new commissioners are appointed and confirmed. (⁠Reuters)

The move comes as election officials across the country prepare for the November midterm elections and has sparked debate over the future of federal election oversight. Supporters of the administration argue the president has the authority to appoint new commissioners, while critics say the decision could disrupt election administration and reduce public confidence in the electoral process. (⁠Reuters)

The administration has not announced when replacement commissioners will be nominated.

Read the Full Article

Read the complete story

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Published by Bryan Tomlinson | 

Trump Fires All Election Assistance Commission Members, Leaving Federal Election Agency Unable to Act

Just months before the 2026 midterm elections, President Donald Trump has removed the remaining members of the U.S. Election Assistance Commission (EAC), leaving the independent federal agency without the quorum required to carry out many of its responsibilities. (⁠Reuters)

The bipartisan Election Assistance Commission was created by the Help America Vote Act of 2002 to help states improve election administration, certify voting systems, accredit voting equipment testing laboratories, and maintain the national voter registration form.

According to multiple reports, one Republican commissioner resigned while two Democratic commissioners were dismissed by the White House, leaving the agency unable to conduct official business until new commissioners are appointed and confirmed. (⁠Reuters)

The move comes as election officials across the country prepare for the November midterm elections and has sparked debate over the future of federal election oversight. Supporters of the administration argue the president has the authority to appoint new commissioners, while critics say the decision could disrupt election administration and reduce public confidence in the electoral process. (⁠Reuters)

The administration has not announced when replacement commissioners will be nominated.

Read the Full Article

Read the complete story

DoRaleigh is your local source for events, community news, government updates, festivals, concerts, food, family activities, business spotlights, and everything happening in our city.

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Published by Bryan Tomlinson | 

Trump Fires All Election Assistance Commission Members, Leaving Federal Election Agency Unable to Act

Just months before the 2026 midterm elections, President Donald Trump has removed the remaining members of the U.S. Election Assistance Commission (EAC), leaving the independent federal agency without the quorum required to carry out many of its responsibilities. (⁠Reuters)

The bipartisan Election Assistance Commission was created by the Help America Vote Act of 2002 to help states improve election administration, certify voting systems, accredit voting equipment testing laboratories, and maintain the national voter registration form.

According to multiple reports, one Republican commissioner resigned while two Democratic commissioners were dismissed by the White House, leaving the agency unable to conduct official business until new commissioners are appointed and confirmed. (⁠Reuters)

The move comes as election officials across the country prepare for the November midterm elections and has sparked debate over the future of federal election oversight. Supporters of the administration argue the president has the authority to appoint new commissioners, while critics say the decision could disrupt election administration and reduce public confidence in the electoral process. (⁠Reuters)

The administration has not announced when replacement commissioners will be nominated.

Read the Full Article

Read the complete story

DoRaleigh is your local source for events, community news, government updates, festivals, concerts, food, family activities, business spotlights, and everything happening in our city.

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Published by Bryan Tomlinson | 

Trump Fires All Election Assistance Commission Members, Leaving Federal Election Agency Unable to Act

Just months before the 2026 midterm elections, President Donald Trump has removed the remaining members of the U.S. Election Assistance Commission (EAC), leaving the independent federal agency without the quorum required to carry out many of its responsibilities. (⁠Reuters)

The bipartisan Election Assistance Commission was created by the Help America Vote Act of 2002 to help states improve election administration, certify voting systems, accredit voting equipment testing laboratories, and maintain the national voter registration form.

According to multiple reports, one Republican commissioner resigned while two Democratic commissioners were dismissed by the White House, leaving the agency unable to conduct official business until new commissioners are appointed and confirmed. (⁠Reuters)

The move comes as election officials across the country prepare for the November midterm elections and has sparked debate over the future of federal election oversight. Supporters of the administration argue the president has the authority to appoint new commissioners, while critics say the decision could disrupt election administration and reduce public confidence in the electoral process. (⁠Reuters)

The administration has not announced when replacement commissioners will be nominated.

Read the Full Article

Read the complete story

DoRaleigh is your local source for events, community news, government updates, festivals, concerts, food, family activities, business spotlights, and everything happening in our city.

Connect With Us: Instagram | Facebook | BSky | Linkedin

Share With Us: Post your community News, Events, on our Submissions Page.

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Published by Bryan Tomlinson | 

Trump Fires All Election Assistance Commission Members, Leaving Federal Election Agency Unable to Act

Just months before the 2026 midterm elections, President Donald Trump has removed the remaining members of the U.S. Election Assistance Commission (EAC), leaving the independent federal agency without the quorum required to carry out many of its responsibilities. (⁠Reuters)

The bipartisan Election Assistance Commission was created by the Help America Vote Act of 2002 to help states improve election administration, certify voting systems, accredit voting equipment testing laboratories, and maintain the national voter registration form.

According to multiple reports, one Republican commissioner resigned while two Democratic commissioners were dismissed by the White House, leaving the agency unable to conduct official business until new commissioners are appointed and confirmed. (⁠Reuters)

The move comes as election officials across the country prepare for the November midterm elections and has sparked debate over the future of federal election oversight. Supporters of the administration argue the president has the authority to appoint new commissioners, while critics say the decision could disrupt election administration and reduce public confidence in the electoral process. (⁠Reuters)

The administration has not announced when replacement commissioners will be nominated.

Read the Full Article

Read the complete story

DoRaleigh is your local source for events, community news, government updates, festivals, concerts, food, family activities, business spotlights, and everything happening in our city.

Connect With Us: Instagram | Facebook | BSky | Linkedin

Share With Us: Post your community News, Events, on our Submissions Page.

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Published by Bryan Tomlinson | 

The Cost of Living in Raleigh Has Changed Dramatically Over the Last Six Years. Here’s Why

Not long ago, Raleigh was widely known as one of America’s best-kept secrets—a fast-growing city offering excellent job opportunities, nationally ranked universities, and a relatively affordable cost of living compared to larger metropolitan areas.

Today, that reputation is changing.

Raleigh remains one of the country’s most desirable places to live, but many residents say they are feeling what economists have called the “Southern Squeeze.” As more people move to cities across the Southeast, housing costs, insurance, groceries, childcare, and everyday expenses have climbed faster than many paychecks.

Here’s a look at how affordability has changed in Raleigh over the past six years—and what it means for current and future residents.

Raleigh’s Population Boom

Since 2020, Raleigh has continued attracting thousands of new residents from states like California, New York, Florida, and across the Northeast and Midwest.

People continue relocating because of:

• Strong job growth
• The Research Triangle’s thriving technology and life sciences sectors
• Highly ranked colleges and universities
• Mild climate
• Quality healthcare
• A growing food, arts, and entertainment scene

While growth has brought investment and opportunity, it has also increased competition for housing and everyday services.

Housing Costs Have Seen the Biggest Increase

Perhaps nowhere has affordability changed more than in the housing market.

Over the last six years:

• Median home prices have risen dramatically.
• Apartment rents have increased across much of Wake County.
• Entry-level homebuyers face higher mortgage rates and larger down payment requirements.
• Property taxes and homeowners insurance costs have also climbed.

For many first-time buyers, purchasing a home today requires significantly more income than it did just a few years ago.

Renters Are Feeling the Pressure

Renters have also experienced rising costs.

Many apartment communities have seen rent increases driven by:

• High demand
• Limited housing supply
• Continued population growth
• Rising construction costs
• Higher insurance and maintenance expenses

While thousands of new apartments have been built throughout the Triangle, demand has remained strong enough to keep rents elevated in many neighborhoods.

Everyday Expenses Cost More

Housing isn’t the only expense that has increased.

Residents are also paying more for:

• Groceries
• Utilities
• Gasoline
• Auto insurance
• Homeowners insurance
• Childcare
• Dining out
• Entertainment

Many of these increases reflect national inflation trends, but Raleigh’s rapid growth has added additional pressure in some sectors.

Higher Wages—but Higher Costs

The good news is that Raleigh continues to offer one of the strongest job markets in the Southeast.

Technology, healthcare, engineering, biotechnology, education, finance, and government employers continue hiring, and average salaries have increased in many industries.

However, for many households, rising wages have not fully kept pace with increases in housing and other living expenses.

Is Raleigh Still Affordable?

The answer depends on who you ask.

Compared with major metropolitan areas like New York, Washington, D.C., Boston, San Francisco, or Seattle, Raleigh remains relatively affordable.

But compared with Raleigh just six years ago, affordability has changed substantially.

For longtime residents, higher home values may have increased personal wealth, while first-time buyers and renters often face greater financial challenges than previous generations.

The “Southern Squeeze”

A recent analysis highlighted a trend affecting many once-affordable Southern cities, including Raleigh, Charlotte, Nashville, Austin, and Atlanta. Rapid population growth, strong job markets, and continued migration have pushed housing demand well beyond historical levels, making affordability a growing concern across the region. (New York Post⁠)

The same qualities that make Raleigh attractive—economic opportunity, safety, education, and quality of life—have also contributed to rising prices.

Reasons for Optimism

Despite affordability challenges, Raleigh continues to rank among the nation’s most desirable places to live.

The city benefits from:

• A diverse and resilient economy
• Low unemployment
• World-class universities
• Continued business investment
• Expanding parks and greenways
• Professional sports and cultural attractions
• A strong entrepreneurial ecosystem

Recent rankings continue to place Raleigh among the top U.S. state capitals for overall livability because of its economic strength, education, and quality of life. (New York Post⁠)

Looking Ahead

City leaders, developers, and community organizations are working to address affordability through additional housing construction, mixed-income developments, transportation improvements, and investments in infrastructure.

Whether those efforts can keep pace with Raleigh’s continued growth remains one of the city’s biggest challenges over the next decade.

One thing is certain: Raleigh has transformed significantly over the last six years. While it remains an outstanding place to live, work, and raise a family, affordability has become one of the most important issues facing residents today.

Follow DoRaleigh.com for local news, housing updates, development projects, business openings, government coverage, and everything happening across Raleigh and the Triangle.

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City of Raleigh Government Event Guide: Reflecting Raleigh Technical Team Meeting Focuses on Infrastructure & Services – June 29, 2026

Residents interested in helping shape the future of Raleigh are invited to attend the Reflecting Raleigh Technical Team – Infrastructure and Services meeting on Monday, June 29, 2026. The meeting is part of the City’s ongoing Reflecting Raleigh initiative to develop Raleigh’s next Comprehensive Plan.

This collaborative planning process brings together city staff, technical experts, board and commission members, and community stakeholders to discuss policies that will guide Raleigh’s future growth and development.

Event Details

📅 Date: Monday, June 29, 2026

🕓 Time: 4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.

📍 Location:
One Exchange Plaza (OEP)
1 Exchange Plaza
Conference Room 809
Raleigh, NC 27601

What is Reflecting Raleigh?

Reflecting Raleigh is the City’s long-range planning initiative that will shape policies for how Raleigh grows over the coming decades. The Comprehensive Plan serves as a roadmap for land use, infrastructure, transportation, housing, environmental stewardship, and neighborhood development.

The planning effort is organized into five Technical Teams:

• Land Use
• Transportation
• Housing and Neighborhoods
• Natural Resources
• Infrastructure and Services

Each Technical Team consists of:

• City of Raleigh staff
• Representatives from City boards and commissions
• Technical experts from across the Raleigh community

Why This Meeting Matters

Infrastructure and public services are critical to Raleigh’s continued growth. Topics discussed by this Technical Team may influence future decisions regarding:

• Public utilities
• Water and sewer infrastructure
• Public facilities
• Stormwater management
• Municipal services
• Capital improvement planning
• Long-term sustainability

The recommendations developed by the Technical Teams will help inform the City’s next Comprehensive Plan, ensuring Raleigh continues to grow in a thoughtful and sustainable way.

Stay Connected with Raleigh Government

DoRaleigh.com brings you the latest City Council meetings, public hearings, advisory board meetings, community engagement opportunities, and government events happening across Raleigh.

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Triangle Event Guide Weekend Edition (June 26–28, 2026)

Looking for the best things to do in the Triangle this weekend? From Out! Raleigh Pride, free concerts, art walks, markets, family activities, food festivals, and live music to community celebrations, there’s something happening across Raleigh, Durham, Cary, Chapel Hill, Apex, Pittsboro, Hillsborough, and beyond.

Whether you’re planning a family outing, date night, or weekend adventure, here’s your guide to some of the best events happening Friday, June 26 through Sunday, June 28, 2026.

Friday, June 26 Highlights

Kick off the weekend with dozens of free events throughout the Triangle.

Don’t Miss

• Out! Raleigh Pride Friday Night Celebration on Fayetteville Street in Downtown Raleigh
• Carrboro Orgullo Pride Celebration and Pride Piper Walk
• Raleigh Money Expo at the NC State Fairgrounds
• Free Curious George Kids Movie at Triangle Cinemas
• Kidical Mass Family Bike Ride in Raleigh
• Last Fridays Art Walk and Makers Market in Hillsborough
• Final Friday Cary Art Loop
• Hillsborough Street Makers & Music Series
• Live music across Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill, Knightdale, Pittsboro, and Cary
• Dance with the Raleigh International Folk Dancers
• Karaoke, open mic nights, drum circles, plant bingo, and comedy showcases

Saturday, June 27 Highlights

Saturday is packed with family-friendly events, festivals, concerts, and outdoor activities.

Featured Events

• Out! Raleigh Pride Festival in Downtown Raleigh
• Knowing the West Community Day at the North Carolina Museum of Art
• The Raleigh Market at the State Fairgrounds
• Historic Raleigh Trolley Tours
• Free Guided Tours of the North Carolina State Capitol
• Raleigh Flodown: Goose Pre-Party
• Triangle Pride Symphonic Band 10th Anniversary Celebration
• CaryLive! Concert Series featuring Abraham Alexander
• Durham Summer Concerts in the Park
• Franklinton Independence Day Celebration
• Book Harvest Pride Celebration
• Touch-a-Truck with Durham Fire Department
• Community giveaways, farmers markets, yoga, art exhibits, and live entertainment throughout the region.

Sunday, June 28 Highlights

Wrap up your weekend with relaxing markets, music, wellness activities, and community events.

Sunday Favorites

• Raleigh Market
• Durham Underground Market
• Morgan Street Sessions
• Black Farmers’ Market
• FREE Produce Giveaways in Raleigh
• LEGO Stadium Build Events
• Disco Summer: Pride Edition
• Raleigh Concert Series featuring Triangle Taiko at Pullen Park
• Sunday yoga classes
• Open mic performances
• Live bluegrass and acoustic music
• Board games, book clubs, craft swaps, and family activities

Weekend Deals

Take advantage of these special offers throughout the weekend:

• Whole Foods Market: 50% off select ice cream and frozen treats
• Multiple free concerts and festivals
• Free museum programs
• Free farmers markets
• Free family activities throughout Wake, Durham, Orange, Chatham, and Johnston counties

Plan Your Weekend

Whether you’re celebrating Pride Month, enjoying live music, shopping local markets, exploring museums, attending community festivals, or simply spending time outdoors, this weekend offers hundreds of opportunities across the Triangle.

Many events are FREE, making it easy to enjoy everything the region has to offer without breaking the budget.

Keep checking DoRaleigh.com throughout the weekend for breaking event updates, local news, restaurant recommendations, and even more things to do across Raleigh and the Triangle.

Follow DoRaleigh.com for your daily guide to events, entertainment, food, festivals, community news, and everything happening across Raleigh, Durham, Cary, Chapel Hill, and the Triangle.

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City of Raleigh Government Guide for Thursday June 25th

Stay informed about what’s happening in Raleigh city government with today’s schedule of public meetings and board activities. Whether you’re interested in planning, historic preservation, or local government decisions, these meetings provide opportunities for residents to stay engaged with the City’s ongoing work.

City of Raleigh Government Meetings – Thursday, June 25, 2026

❌ Transportation and Transit Committee Meeting — CANCELLED

3:00 p.m.
Category: Council and Council Committee Meetings

The Transportation and Transit Committee Meeting scheduled for Thursday has been cancelled.

🏛️ Planning Commission Committee of the Whole

4:00 p.m.
Category: Boards and Commissions

The Planning Commission Committee of the Whole meets to discuss planning initiatives, zoning matters, and development-related topics that help shape Raleigh’s future growth.

🏡 RHDC Certificate of Appropriateness Committee

5:00 p.m.
Category: Boards and Commissions

The Raleigh Historic Development Commission (RHDC) Certificate of Appropriateness Committee reviews proposed exterior changes and preservation projects within Raleigh’s designated historic districts to ensure they meet established preservation guidelines.

Stay Connected with Raleigh Government

City boards, commissions, and committee meetings give residents an opportunity to stay informed about transportation, planning, development, historic preservation, and other important issues affecting the community.

Follow DoRaleigh.com each day for the latest City of Raleigh meeting schedules, local government news, community events, public hearings, and everything happening across Raleigh.

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City of Raleigh Government Event Guide: Reflecting Raleigh Housing & Neighborhoods Meeting – June 22, 2026

Raleigh residents interested in the future of housing, neighborhood growth, and community planning have an opportunity to stay engaged with local government on Monday, June 22, 2026. The City of Raleigh’s Reflecting Raleigh Technical Team for Housing and Neighborhoods will meet to discuss policy recommendations and planning strategies that will help shape Raleigh’s next Comprehensive Plan.  

Event Details

Reflecting Raleigh Technical Team – Housing and Neighborhoods

📅 Date: Monday, June 22, 2026
⏰ Time: 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
📍 Location: One Exchange Plaza, Conference Room 809
🏛️ Category: Community & Workshops  

What Is Reflecting Raleigh?

Reflecting Raleigh is the City of Raleigh’s initiative to create the next Comprehensive Plan—a long-range roadmap that will guide growth, development, housing, transportation, infrastructure, and quality of life throughout the city for years to come. The process relies on input from residents, technical experts, city staff, and community leaders.  

The Housing and Neighborhoods Technical Team focuses on issues such as:

• Affordable housing opportunities
• Neighborhood preservation and stability
• Housing equity and accessibility
• Growth management and development patterns
• Community engagement and neighborhood investment

Their recommendations will help influence future city policies and planning decisions.  

Why This Meeting Matters

Housing remains one of Raleigh’s most important challenges as the city continues to grow. Discussions around affordability, neighborhood character, density, and equitable development are central to Raleigh’s future. Recent city initiatives have included proposals for additional affordable housing and mixed-use development across the city, demonstrating the importance of long-term planning and community input.  

Attending meetings like this allows residents to better understand how decisions are made and how they can contribute to Raleigh’s future vision.

Stay Engaged With Local Government

Community participation plays a critical role in shaping Raleigh’s future. Whether you’re a homeowner, renter, business owner, developer, or neighborhood advocate, these meetings provide valuable insight into policies that affect housing and community development across the city.  

Follow DoRaleigh.com for the latest City Council updates, government meetings, community workshops, and local events happening throughout Raleigh and the Triangle.

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Published by Bryan Tomlinson | DoRaleigh.com

North Carolina Music Hall of Fame Announces 2026 Inductees: Hip-Hop, Funk, Jazz, Bluegrass, and Indie Rock Legends Honored

North Carolina Music Hall of Fame Reveals 2026 Inductee Class

The North Carolina Music Hall of Fame has officially announced its Class of 2026, recognizing six groundbreaking artists, musicians, producers, and innovators whose contributions have shaped American music across multiple genres.

The induction ceremony will take place on Thursday, October 15, 2026, at the Charles Mack Citizen Center in Mooresville, North Carolina. Presented by Visit Mooresville, the annual celebration honors artists with deep North Carolina roots who have made a lasting impact on the music industry.

Tickets for the public are available now and start at $80.

2026 North Carolina Music Hall of Fame Inductees

MC SHA-ROCK (Wilmington, NC)

Widely recognized as the first female MC in Hip-Hop culture, MC SHA-ROCK helped define the early sound and style of rap music as a member of the pioneering group Funky 4 + 1.

Her groundbreaking work helped establish modern microphone techniques, lyrical delivery, and live performance standards. In 1981, Funky 4 + 1 became the first Hip-Hop group to perform on national television during an appearance on Saturday Night Live, introducing Hip-Hop culture to mainstream America.

Sugar Bear (Red Springs, NC)

Gregory “Sugar Bear” Elliott is best known as a founding member of Experience Unlimited (E.U.), one of the most influential groups in Go-Go music history.

The band achieved national success with the hit single “Da Butt,” which reached No. 1 on the Billboard Black Singles chart in 1988 and earned a Grammy nomination. E.U.’s impact helped bring Washington D.C.-style Go-Go music to audiences worldwide.

Arrogance (Chapel Hill, NC)

Formed in Chapel Hill, Arrogance is considered one of North Carolina’s original indie rock bands.

The group pioneered the DIY music movement through self-produced recordings and independent distribution strategies long before independent music became mainstream. Their influence helped lay the foundation for future generations of independent artists and bands.

Barry Poss (Durham, NC)

As founder of Sugar Hill Records, Barry Poss played a crucial role in the evolution of bluegrass and Americana music.

Through Sugar Hill Records, Poss worked with legendary artists including Doc Watson, Ricky Skaggs, Alison Krauss, Dolly Parton, Jerry Douglas, Nickel Creek, and many others. His work helped modernize bluegrass music and introduce it to new audiences across the globe.

Billy Strayhorn (Hillsborough, NC)

One of jazz music’s most respected composers and arrangers, Billy Strayhorn is best known for his decades-long collaboration with Duke Ellington.

Strayhorn composed jazz classics such as “Take the ‘A’ Train” and “Lush Life,” both of which remain essential pieces of the American jazz canon. His contributions continue to influence musicians around the world.

Eddie Ray Lifetime Achievement Award Recipient

George Clinton (Kannapolis, NC)

Music icon George Clinton will receive the prestigious Eddie Ray Lifetime Achievement Award during the 2026 ceremony.

As the founder of Parliament-Funkadelic, Clinton transformed the landscape of funk music and influenced generations of artists in Hip-Hop, R&B, rock, and pop music.

Already a member of the North Carolina Music Hall of Fame since 2009, Clinton is being honored for more than five decades of innovation, creativity, and cultural impact.

2026 Induction Ceremony Details

Date: Thursday, October 15, 2026
Location: Charles Mack Citizen Center, Mooresville, NC
Tickets: Starting at $80
Public Event: Yes

The ceremony will feature special appearances and live performances from inductees and guests. Additional performers and event details will be announced in the coming months.

Visit the North Carolina Music Hall of Fame Museum

Located in Kannapolis, the North Carolina Music Hall of Fame Museum celebrates the state’s rich musical heritage with exhibits honoring artists from every genre.

Visitors can explore memorabilia from legendary North Carolina artists, including Charlie Daniels, Roberta Flack, Luke Combs, Jermaine Dupri, Randy Travis, The Avett Brothers, and many more.

New exhibits featuring memorabilia from the 2026 inductees will debut in October alongside the induction ceremony.

Admission to the museum is free.

North Carolina’s Musical Legacy Continues

From Hip-Hop and funk to jazz, bluegrass, Americana, and indie rock, the North Carolina Music Hall of Fame’s 2026 class showcases the incredible diversity of talent that has emerged from the Tar Heel State.

Their stories remind us that North Carolina continues to be a powerful force in shaping American music and culture.

For more local arts, music, entertainment, and community news, follow DoRaleigh.com.

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Published by Bryan Tomlinson | DoRaleigh.com

DoRaleigh News Notes: Hurricanes Parade, UNC Baseball, New Businesses, Budget Updates & More

Raleigh is buzzing with major sports celebrations, economic development announcements, community initiatives, and exciting new businesses. From the Carolina Hurricanes’ Stanley Cup victory parade to MLB expansion discussions and new entertainment destinations coming to Crabtree Valley, here’s what Raleigh residents need to know this week.

Carolina Hurricanes Championship Parade Set for Downtown Raleigh

The celebration continues for the Carolina Hurricanes after capturing the 2026 Stanley Cup Championship. The official championship parade will take place Saturday, June 20 at 11 a.m. in downtown Raleigh near the Governor’s Mansion.

Adding to the excitement, Raleigh Mayor Janet Cowell officially proclaimed June 20 as Carolina Hurricanes Day, giving fans another reason to celebrate the franchise’s historic achievement.

The championship has also renewed discussions about Raleigh’s future as a major sports destination. Hurricanes owner Tom Dundon continues to be a driving force behind the team’s success and has expressed interest in attracting additional professional sports opportunities to the Triangle.

UNC Baseball Advances to College World Series National Semifinals

The North Carolina Tar Heels baseball are headed to their first College World Series National Semifinals appearance since 2013.

After defeating West Virginia and Ole Miss, the Tar Heels remain undefeated in Omaha and will face the winner of the West Virginia versus Troy matchup. The game is scheduled for tomorrow at 2 p.m. as North Carolina continues its pursuit of a national championship.

Wake County Animal Center’s Friendly World Cup Competition

The Wake County Animal Center is embracing soccer fever with a fun adoption challenge: Team Dog versus Team Cat.

The goal? See which side can secure the most adoptions and help more pets find their forever homes. It’s a creative way to spotlight adoptable animals while encouraging residents to consider pet adoption.

Neese’s Country Sausage Returns

Good news for longtime North Carolina food lovers. Raleigh-based Jesse Jones Brand has acquired the iconic Neese’s Country Sausage business and plans to bring products back to store shelves.

Fans can expect the return of traditional favorites, including the beloved Southern staple, livermush.

Toys ‘R’ Us Returning to Crabtree Valley

A familiar toy retailer is making a comeback.

Toys ‘R’ Us is planning a permanent return to Raleigh’s Crabtree Valley Mall after a successful holiday pop-up store in 2025.

Families and nostalgic shoppers alike can look forward to the return of the iconic toy brand.

Raleigh Park Access Ranked Among Top 100 Cities

According to the latest ParkScore rankings, 41% of Raleigh residents live within walking distance of a park.

Raleigh ranked No. 51 among the nation’s 100 largest cities, highlighting the city’s continued investment in parks, greenways, and public spaces.

New Youth Apprenticeship Academy Coming to Wake County

A new partnership between Wake Technical Community College and Wake County Public School System will create expanded opportunities for students interested in skilled trades careers.

Backed by a $4 million grant from Bloomberg Philanthropies, the program will provide:

• Paid work experience
• Industry certifications
• College credit opportunities
• Career pathway development

The academy is expected to launch in 2027.

WakeMed-Atrium Merger Proposal Advances

Leaders from WakeMed recently presented details of a proposed $2 billion merger with Atrium Health to Wake County commissioners.

Supporters say the partnership could:

• Create approximately 3,000 jobs over five years
• Expand healthcare access
• Increase investments in mental health services
• Support affordable housing initiatives

The proposal continues to generate significant discussion throughout the Triangle.

Raleigh-Based Tech Leaders Launch Major Cybersecurity Initiative

Artificial intelligence security concerns are driving new investments in cybersecurity.

Red Hat⁠ and IBM⁠ announced Project Lightwell, a $5 billion initiative focused on strengthening open-source software security and protecting against emerging AI-driven cyber threats.

Major financial institutions, including JP Morgan and Bank of America, are expected to participate.

NC Museum of Art Hiring Senior Leadership Position

The North Carolina Museum of Art is seeking a new Chief of Collections and Curatorial Affairs.

The leadership role oversees exhibitions, conservation, collections management, fundraising, and community engagement efforts. The salary range is listed between $125,000 and $150,000 annually.

Buc-ee’s Headed to North Carolina

One of the country’s most famous travel centers is officially coming to North Carolina.

Buc-ee’s plans to open a 74,000-square-foot location in Mebane in fall 2027.

Highlights include:

• 120 fueling stations
• 200 full-time jobs
• Expanded roadway improvements nearby

Hub RTP Launches New Social District

Hub RTP has introduced a new social district that allows visitors to carry alcoholic beverages within designated outdoor areas.

The initiative is designed to increase foot traffic and support local retailers and restaurants, including popular destinations such as Cheeni Indian Food Emporium.

Drought Restrictions Intensify

Raleigh Water is increasing enforcement efforts as Falls Lake remains at approximately 69% capacity.

Residents are encouraged to review drought restrictions and reduce unnecessary outdoor water use as the region prepares for extended summer heat.

Triple-Digit Temperatures Ahead

The Triangle is preparing for one of the hottest stretches of the year, with temperatures expected to reach triple digits.

Officials recommend:

• Drinking plenty of water
• Limiting outdoor activities
• Using cooling centers when needed
• Checking on seniors and vulnerable neighbors

New Businesses Coming to Raleigh

Plain Jane’s Bar

A new neighborhood bar called Plain Jane’s is expected to open by late July in the former Green Monkey location on Hillsborough Street.

Trophy Brewing Changes

Trophy Brewing has sold its Hillsborough Street State of Beer location to North South Hospitality while planning to rebrand its Morgan Street location.

Level99 Coming to Crabtree

Interactive entertainment venue Level99 is bringing more than 50 life-sized challenge rooms and mini-games to Crabtree Valley Mall in 2027.

The location will be the company’s first North Carolina venue.

Raleigh’s MLB Dreams Continue

Interest in bringing Major League Baseball to Raleigh continues to grow.

Former Milwaukee Bucks owner and NC Courage investor Marc Lasry, State Treasurer Brad Briner, and Hurricanes owner Tom Dundon have all expressed interest in pursuing an MLB franchise for the Triangle.

For now, Raleigh sports fans are focused on celebrating a Stanley Cup championship—but the possibility of MLB remains an exciting long-term conversation.

Painted Bunting Draws Birdwatchers to Dix Park

Bird enthusiasts are flocking to Dorothea Dix Park after sightings of a colorful male painted bunting near the park’s sunflower field.

Some birdwatchers have reportedly traveled more than 150 miles for a chance to spot one of North America’s most vibrant songbirds.

Community Calendar Highlights

June 20

• District D Neighborhood Alliance Meeting

June 22

• Reflecting Raleigh Technical Team – Housing and Neighborhoods
• Midtown CAC Hybrid Meeting

June 23

• Planning Commission Meeting
• Neighborhood Rezoning Meeting: 1900 Wimbish Lane
• Neighborhood Rezoning Meeting: Clark Avenue and Horne Street Properties
• Hillsborough-Wade CAC Meeting

June 24

• Reflecting Raleigh Technical Team – Natural Resources
• Police Advisory Board Meeting
• West Raleigh CAC Virtual Meeting

June 25

• Planning Commission Committee of the Whole
• RHDC Certificate of Appropriateness Committee

Final Thoughts

From championship celebrations and college sports success to major development projects, new businesses, healthcare investments, and civic engagement opportunities, Raleigh continues to experience significant growth and momentum.

Whether you’re attending the Hurricanes parade, exploring new local businesses, or participating in community meetings, there’s plenty happening across the Capital City this week.

Follow DoRaleigh.com for daily updates on local news, events, government meetings, entertainment, and everything happening in Raleigh and the Triangle.

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Published by Bryan Tomlinson | DoRaleigh.com

City of Raleigh Government Guide Wednesday June 17th Edition

Residents across Raleigh have several opportunities to engage with local government, sustainability initiatives, and future city planning on Wednesday, June 17, 2026. From environmental programs to long-range land use discussions, these events provide citizens with a chance to stay informed and help shape Raleigh’s future.

Biodegradable Yard Waste Bag Giveaway

Time: 11:00 a.m. Register Online
Category: Community Engagement | Environment and Sustainability

The City of Raleigh continues its commitment to environmental stewardship with a Biodegradable Yard Waste Bag Giveaway. Residents can receive environmentally friendly yard waste bags designed to help reduce plastic waste and support sustainable yard maintenance practices.

This initiative is part of Raleigh’s ongoing efforts to promote greener neighborhoods and encourage residents to adopt eco-friendly habits that benefit the community and the environment.

Why It Matters

• Reduces landfill waste
• Encourages sustainable yard care
• Supports Raleigh’s environmental goals
• Helps residents transition away from traditional plastic bags

Planning Commission Text Change Committee Meeting

Time: 4:00 p.m.
Category: Boards and Commissions

The Planning Commission Text Change Committee will meet to discuss proposed amendments to Raleigh’s development regulations and zoning ordinances.

These meetings play a critical role in shaping how Raleigh grows by reviewing changes that affect housing, commercial development, transportation, and neighborhood planning.

Topics Often Addressed

• Zoning updates
• Development regulations
• Housing policies
• Land use standards
• Future growth strategies

Residents, developers, neighborhood leaders, and community advocates are encouraged to follow these discussions closely as they often influence future City Council decisions.

Reflecting Raleigh Technical Team – Land Use

Time: 4:00 p.m.
Category: Community and Workshops

The Reflecting Raleigh Technical Team focused on Land Use will continue work on one of the city’s most important long-term planning initiatives.

Reflecting Raleigh is helping guide updates to Raleigh’s Comprehensive Plan, which serves as the roadmap for future growth, development, transportation, housing, sustainability, and economic opportunity throughout the city.

The Land Use team evaluates how Raleigh should balance growth while preserving neighborhood character, supporting economic development, and creating equitable opportunities for residents.

Key Areas of Focus

• Future housing needs
• Mixed-use development
• Growth management
• Transportation connections
• Sustainability and resilience
• Community investment priorities

As Raleigh continues to grow, these conversations will influence decisions that impact residents for decades to come.

Stay Connected With Raleigh Government

Participating in local government meetings and community engagement opportunities helps residents stay informed about important decisions affecting neighborhoods, transportation, housing, sustainability, and quality of life.

Whether you’re interested in environmental programs, zoning updates, or long-term planning efforts, Wednesday’s City of Raleigh events offer valuable opportunities to learn more and get involved in shaping the future of the Capital City.

For additional meetings, events, and civic engagement opportunities, follow DoRaleigh.com for daily City of Raleigh Government Guides and local community updates.

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Published by Bryan Tomlinson | DoRaleigh.com

City of Raleigh Government Event Guide: Meetings and Public Engagement Opportunities for June 8th Edition

Residents interested in local government, city planning, parks, recreation, and Raleigh’s growing greenway system have several opportunities to stay engaged on Monday, June 8, 2026. The City of Raleigh continues its commitment to transparency and public participation through board meetings, commission discussions, and budget planning sessions that help shape the future of the community.

Whether you’re interested in city finances, parks and recreation, or transportation and greenway development, here’s what is happening across Raleigh government today.

Board of Adjustment

9:00 a.m.
Category: Boards and Commissions

The Board of Adjustment reviews requests related to zoning regulations, variances, special use permits, and appeals regarding city development requirements. These meetings play an important role in shaping how Raleigh grows while balancing community needs and development standards.

Greenway Committee

4:00 p.m.
Category: Boards and Commissions

The Greenway Committee advises the City of Raleigh on matters related to the Capital Area Greenway System. Discussions often include trail development, connectivity projects, maintenance priorities, and opportunities to improve outdoor recreation access throughout the city.

As Raleigh continues expanding its greenway network, this committee remains a key part of planning future trail connections and enhancing quality of life for residents.

Parks, Recreation, and Athletics City Council Budget Work Session

4:00 p.m.
Category: Council and Council Committee Meetings

City Council members will continue budget discussions focused on Parks, Recreation, and Athletics services. Budget work sessions help determine future investments in parks, community centers, athletic programs, green spaces, recreation facilities, and other quality-of-life initiatives throughout Raleigh.

These discussions are particularly important as the city evaluates funding priorities to support population growth, community programming, and long-term infrastructure improvements.

Why These Meetings Matter

Local government decisions directly impact daily life in Raleigh. From neighborhood parks and recreational opportunities to greenway expansion and development regulations, these meetings help guide policies and investments that shape the city’s future.

Residents are encouraged to stay informed, attend meetings when possible, and participate in the public process to ensure community voices are represented.

Stay Connected with Raleigh Government

DoRaleigh.com provides ongoing coverage of Raleigh City Council meetings, board and commission updates, budget discussions, public hearings, and community engagement opportunities.

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Raleigh City Council Recap: Traffic Calming Changes, Budget Discussions, and Key Rezoning Decisions

The Raleigh City Council held its June 1 Budget Work Session and June 2 Afternoon and Evening Meetings, tackling topics ranging from traffic calming reforms and budget priorities to rezonings, public hearings, and environmental resilience.

Here are the biggest takeaways Raleigh residents should know.

Major Changes Coming to Raleigh’s Traffic Calming Program

One of the most significant actions taken by Council was the unanimous approval of recommendations from the Transportation and Transit Committee to streamline traffic calming decisions.

Under the new approach:

• Neighborhood ballots will no longer be required for speed limit reductions.
• Neighborhood ballots will no longer be required for line-of-sight improvements.
• Multi-way stop decisions will no longer require neighborhood voting.
• Authority for these decisions will be delegated to the City’s Transportation Director.
• Ballots will also be eliminated for traffic safety improvements that meet objective safety standards.

Council members noted that city staff often face communication challenges when working with neighborhoods on traffic safety issues. Several members highlighted Community Advisory Councils (CACs) as a potential tool for improving public engagement.

Council also requested additional information regarding proposed three-year waiting periods before certain traffic calming measures could be removed.

Budget Public Hearing Draws Community Feedback

Residents had an opportunity to weigh in on the proposed FY 2026-27 Operating and Capital Budget during a statutory public hearing.

Seventeen people signed up to speak, although five did not appear. Speakers addressed a variety of topics including:

• Affordable housing
• Tree preservation and expansion
• Infill development
• Rising cost of living
• Transportation and safe streets

The feedback will help inform upcoming budget discussions as Council continues refining the FY27 budget.

Budget Work Session Highlights

Downtown Raleigh Bandstand Proposal Delayed

Council reviewed a budget note requesting funding for:

• A bandstand/performance stage at City Plaza
• Permanent public art installations on City Plaza pedestals

Council Member Jonathan Lambert-Melton explained the proposal originated from discussions with the Economic Development and Innovation Committee and Downtown Raleigh Alliance.

Council voted to defer consideration of the bandstand until the FY 2028 budget cycle and directed staff to explore sponsorship opportunities. A decision on public art funding is expected later this year after the budget process concludes.

Tree Planting Initiative Under Review

Mayor Pro Tem Corey Branch Harrison continued advocating for a large-scale tree planting initiative aimed at adding approximately 24,000 trees throughout Raleigh.

A proposed $650,000 funding commitment was discussed but ultimately postponed until the next budget work session. Staff will return with additional recommendations and implementation details before Council takes action.

Additional Budget Information Requested

Council members also reviewed reports comparing:

• Municipal services provided by peer cities
• Historical solid waste fee increases
• General Fund subsidies supporting solid waste enterprise operations in other municipalities

These comparisons are intended to help guide future budget decisions and service investments.

Drinking Water Supply and Wastewater Concerns Raised

Mayor Pro Tem Harrison requested further discussion regarding Raleigh’s long-term drinking water supply.

City Manager Marchell Adams-David indicated that the issue may be addressed through a committee assignment or future work session, emphasizing the importance of regional collaboration.

Harrison also requested an incident report related to the Turkey Creek wastewater spill.

Urban Heat Resilience Takes Center Stage

Council received an update on Raleigh’s Urban Heat Resilience efforts during the June 2 afternoon session.

The presentation highlighted the city’s first Urban Heat Resilience tabletop exercise and included a new video featuring community partners working to improve preparedness during extreme heat events.

The update coincided with Global Heat Action Day and the beginning of the summer heat season.

Pride Month Proclamation Issued

Mayor Janet Cowell officially proclaimed June as LGBTQ+ Pride Month in Raleigh during the afternoon session.

The proclamation recognized the contributions and diversity of Raleigh’s LGBTQ+ community.

Rezoning and Development Updates

Downtown Rezoning Approved

Council unanimously approved:

Rezoning Z-01-26

• 307 W. Martin Street
• 311 Commerce Place
• 322 W. Davie Street

The approval clears the way for future development opportunities in Downtown Raleigh.

Creedmoor Road Case Delayed

Council unanimously postponed:

Text Change TCZ-02-26

• 4601 Creedmoor Road
• Intersection of Creedmoor Road and Glenwood Avenue

The case was delayed until July 7 due to insufficient public notice in The News & Observer.

Litchford Road Rezoning Returns to Planning Commission

Council voted unanimously to send the following case back to the Planning Commission after the applicant introduced significant new conditions:

Rezoning Z-43-25

• 6309 Litchford Road

Upcoming Public Hearings

Residents should be aware of several major hearings scheduled for June 16, including:

• Multiple annexation requests
• Rezoning cases in Downtown Raleigh
• New Bern Avenue redevelopment proposals
• Jones Ridge Trail development requests
• Street name change at North Hills

Additional rezoning hearings are scheduled throughout July.

Community Announcements from Council Members

Councilor Christina Jones announced:

• District meeting on June 10 from 6–8 p.m. at La Cucina Italian Restaurant
• Decoding Democracy Book Club on June 13 at 9:30 a.m. at New World Café
• Virtual Council Agenda Review session on June 15 from 6–7:30 p.m.

Councilor Megan Patton requested additional city guidance regarding motorbike safety and public awareness efforts.

What Happens Next?

Budget discussions will continue throughout June as Council works toward adopting the FY 2026-27 budget.

Key issues expected to return include:

• Tree planting funding
• Public art investments
• Transportation safety improvements
• Water supply planning
• Housing affordability initiatives

Residents can continue following Council meetings and public hearings as Raleigh prepares for another year of growth and investment across the city.

Links To The Raleigh City Council Meetings

Full agenda and supporting documents for June 1 Budget Work Session.

Full agenda and supporting documents for June 2 Council Afternoon and Evening Sessions.

Follow DoRaleigh.com for the latest Raleigh City Council updates, local government news, development projects, and community events across the Triangle.

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RAP XXII Founder Showcase & Pitch Night Coming to Wilson, NC on June 24

Entrepreneurs, Investors, and Innovators Invited to Celebrate the Next Generation of Startups

The future of innovation in North Carolina takes center stage on Wednesday, June 24, 2026, as RIoT Labs and NC IDEA present the RAP XXII Founder Showcase & Pitch Night in Wilson, North Carolina.

After months of building, testing, validating, and growing their businesses, the founders of the twenty-second cohort of the RIoT Accelerator Program (RAP XXII) are ready to showcase their ventures and share their entrepreneurial journeys with the community.

This exciting evening will bring together startup founders, investors, mentors, business leaders, and innovation enthusiasts for a night filled with startup pitches, networking opportunities, and emerging technologies designed to solve real-world challenges.

Event Details

RAP XXII Founder Showcase & Pitch Night

📅 Date: Wednesday, June 24, 2026
🕔 Time: 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
📍 Location: Wilson, North Carolina

Attendees are encouraged to reserve their spot early and join one of the state’s premier startup networking events.

What to Expect

The RAP XXII Founder Showcase will feature:

• Live startup pitches from RAP XXII founders
• Innovative solutions addressing real-world challenges
• Opportunities to connect with entrepreneurs and investors
• Insights into emerging technologies and business trends
• High-value networking with industry leaders and ecosystem partners

The event celebrates the accomplishments of founders who have spent months transforming ideas into scalable businesses through the RIoT Accelerator Program.

Meet the RAP XXII Founders

The RAP XXII cohort represents a diverse group of startups working across multiple industries, including:

• Technology
• Manufacturing
• Healthcare
• Sustainability
• Emerging technology solutions

Each founder will have the opportunity to present their business, share their vision, and connect with potential investors, partners, mentors, and customers.

Why You Should Attend

Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur, first-time founder, investor, student, or simply interested in innovation, this event offers valuable opportunities to learn and connect.

Investors

Discover promising startups and explore potential investment opportunities.

Founders

Meet potential advisors, strategic partners, and collaborators who can help accelerate your growth.

Business Leaders

Gain insight into emerging technologies and innovative business solutions shaping the future.

Community Members

Support local entrepreneurs and become part of North Carolina’s growing innovation ecosystem.

The Power of Networking

While the startup pitches are the main attraction, many attendees know that some of the most valuable opportunities happen after the presentations conclude.

The networking portion of the evening provides a chance to connect directly with founders, investors, advisors, mentors, and ecosystem leaders. These conversations often spark new partnerships, investments, collaborations, and long-term business relationships.

Supporting North Carolina’s Startup Ecosystem

The RAP XXII Founder Showcase & Pitch Night is more than just a pitch competition—it’s a celebration of entrepreneurship and innovation across North Carolina.

By attending, participants help strengthen the entrepreneurial ecosystem by providing founders with valuable feedback, mentorship opportunities, business connections, and potential investment pathways.

This showcase also marks an important milestone as the first cohort selected through the partnership between RIoT Labs and NC IDEA, further expanding opportunities for startup founders throughout the region.

Reserve Your Spot

If you’re passionate about entrepreneurship, innovation, technology, and supporting emerging businesses, the RAP XXII Founder Showcase & Pitch Night is an event you won’t want to miss.

Reserve your spot today and be part of an evening dedicated to innovation, collaboration, and the future of North Carolina startups.

For more events, startup news, and business opportunities across the Triangle and beyond, follow DoRaleigh.com.

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DoRaleigh Local News Bits

The Triangle continues to grow, evolve, and surprise us. From major economic development announcements and new businesses to local student achievements and community projects, here’s what’s happening around Raleigh, Durham, Cary, and beyond.

Drift Coffee Expands to Raleigh Iron Works

Coffee lovers have another reason to celebrate. Drift Coffee + Kitchen is bringing its signature coastal-inspired atmosphere and popular coffee offerings to Raleigh Iron Works later this year. The Wilmington-based café has already built a loyal following at its Wade Avenue location, and the new expansion continues the momentum of one of North Carolina’s fastest-growing coffee brands.

NC State Moving Forward with Poe Hall Demolition

After potentially cancer-causing materials were discovered in 2023, NC State University has received approval from the EPA to demolish Poe Hall. The longtime College of Education building will eventually be replaced with a new facility designed to serve future generations of educators.

Morrisville Student Finishes Fourth in National Spelling Bee

Congratulations to Morrisville middle school student Kushi Gottimukkala, who placed fourth in the 2026 Scripps National Spelling Bee. Her impressive run ended with the Italian phrase “cara sposa,” which translates to “dear wife.” The remarkable achievement puts the Triangle student among the nation’s top young spellers.

Buc-ee’s Finally Breaking Ground in Central North Carolina

Fans of oversized convenience stores, Beaver Nuggets, and road trip snacks won’t have to wait much longer. Buc-ee’s is scheduled to break ground on its highly anticipated Mebane location on June 10. The travel center will serve travelers along the busy I-40 corridor between Raleigh and Greensboro.

Frogs Take Over Downtown Cary Park

If you’ve recently visited Downtown Cary Park and noticed a loud chorus after sunset, you’re not imagining things. Hundreds of frogs have made the park home during mating season, creating one of the Triangle’s most unusual natural soundtracks.

Historic Mordecai Boutique Hotel Opening This Summer

A new boutique hotel called The Gables is preparing to open in Raleigh’s Mordecai neighborhood. Located at 1217 Wake Forest Road, the 18-room property dates back to 1928 and is being developed with involvement from Grammy-nominated North Carolina musician Tift Merritt. The project adds another unique lodging option for visitors and locals seeking a staycation experience.

BorgWarner Expands North Carolina Operations

Governor Josh Stein announced that BorgWarner Inc. will invest $100 million and create 378 jobs through an expansion of its Hendersonville facility. The project is expected to generate a $1 billion economic impact over the next 12 years while adding significant payroll and economic activity to western North Carolina.

Leadership Triangle Applications Still Open

Leadership Triangle’s Transforming Leaders Program is still accepting applications for its Fall 2026 cohort. The program focuses on leadership development, emotional intelligence, coaching, team building, and change management through an immersive in-person experience running from August through December.

Smoky Hollow Park Project Seeking Contractors

Contractors specializing in landscaping, demolition, electrical work, development, and general trades are encouraged to attend an information session on June 16 regarding upcoming bid opportunities connected to the Smoky Hollow Park project in Downtown Raleigh.

Raleigh Firm Expands Across the Country

Raleigh-based CityPlat recently acquired 18 retail properties across 11 states in a $36 million transaction. The deal includes national tenants such as Walgreens and Verizon and highlights continued confidence in retail real estate investments.

VinFast Megasite Dispute Continues

North Carolina is pursuing legal action against VinFast in an effort to reclaim the Chatham County megasite tied to the company’s delayed electric vehicle manufacturing project. The dispute raises broader questions about future economic development incentive agreements and large-scale manufacturing recruitment efforts.

Fayetteville Street Tree Lights Returning Soon

The iconic tree lights that illuminate Fayetteville Street will be temporarily removed while the city’s arborist team performs seasonal tree maintenance. The lights are expected to return later this month.

What’s Next for St. Augustine’s University?

With an estimated campus value of $200 million, leaders at St. Augustine’s University continue working to secure the future of the historic 106-year-old HBCU. Community members remain hopeful as discussions continue regarding the institution’s next chapter.

Raleigh Ranked Among America’s Best Cities

Raleigh earned the No. 4 spot on U.S. News & World Report’s list of the 250 Best Big Cities to Live in America. Nearby Apex and Cary also earned recognition among the nation’s top small and mid-sized cities.

Summer Fun Begins for Wake County Students

School is officially out for summer, and families across Wake County are looking for ways to keep kids active and engaged. From parks and museums to summer camps and community events, Raleigh offers plenty of family-friendly activities throughout the season.

Red Hat Amphitheater Construction Reaches Major Milestone

Construction crews recently topped off the steel framework for the new Red Hat Amphitheater. Once complete, work will begin on the next phase of the Raleigh Convention Center expansion, one of downtown’s largest ongoing development projects.

Fourth of July Plans Taking Shape at Dix Park

The City of Raleigh is preparing for a major Independence Day celebration at Dorothea Dix Park. Visitors can expect fireworks, food trucks, family activities, lawn games, craft stations, and convenient shuttle service from Downtown Raleigh.

East End Market Welcomes New Businesses

Several new businesses are preparing to open at East End Market, including Casa Nama, a sister concept to Chido Taco. Fitness enthusiasts can also look forward to The Daily Pilates and BC Block joining the growing development.

Pride Month Events Fill the Calendar

June is Pride Month, and communities across Raleigh, Durham, Cary, and the Triangle are hosting celebrations ranging from drag performances and dance parties to book clubs, wellness events, and community gatherings supporting the LGBTQ+ community.

John Waters Coming to Durham

Legendary filmmaker John Waters will visit the Carolina Theatre in Durham on September 20 as part of the inaugural Page to Picture Book & Film Adaptation Festival. Tickets go on sale this Friday.

Triangle Hotels Earn National Recognition

Forbes recently recognized several Triangle hospitality destinations. The Umstead Hotel received a five-star rating, Fearrington House earned four stars, and Washington Duke Inn & Golf Club was highlighted among the region’s top places to stay.

Irregardless Debuts Summer Menu

One of Raleigh’s most beloved restaurants is introducing new summer dishes, including vegan chilled sesame noodles, blistered shishitos with stone fruit, and tempura oyster mushrooms.

Triangle Ranked Among Top Sports Business Cities

The Triangle landed at No. 23 on Sports Business Journal’s list of Best Sports Business Cities, reflecting the region’s strength in hockey, college athletics, soccer, and future professional sports opportunities.

North Carolina’s Most Popular Baby Names

According to the Social Security Administration, Noah and Amelia were the most popular baby names in North Carolina during 2025. The list highlights naming trends across the state and provides a glimpse into what parents are choosing for the next generation.

Upcoming Business Events

Grep-A-Palooza

June 4 | Durham Convention Center

A full-day gathering of startup founders, investors, entrepreneurs, and innovators showcasing North Carolina’s growing technology ecosystem.

Raleigh Newcomers Club Coffee Meeting

June 5 | North Raleigh United Methodist Church

A free networking opportunity for newcomers looking to connect with other residents.

27th Annual Small Business Conference & Expo

June 10 | NC State McKimmon Center

A free event offering workshops, networking opportunities, and resources for entrepreneurs and small business owners.

Stay connected with DoRaleigh.com for daily updates on local news, business openings, community events, development projects, and everything happening across Raleigh and the Triangle.

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Raleigh Tees: A Community Staple for Custom Apparel in Raleigh, NC

For more than 15 years, Raleigh residents, community organizations, fraternities, sororities, nonprofits, and local businesses have turned to Raleigh Tees for high-quality custom apparel and professional printing services. Located in Northeast Raleigh, Raleigh Tees has become a trusted name in custom screen printing, embroidery, and branded merchandise throughout the Triangle. (Raleigh Tees Store⁠)

Known throughout the community for its commitment to quality and customer service, Raleigh Tees has earned the trust of numerous organizations, including members of the Divine Nine (D9) historically Black fraternities and sororities, community groups, churches, nonprofits, and civic organizations. The company is also a trusted partner of Men of Southeast Raleigh (MOSER), helping bring community events, initiatives, and outreach programs to life through custom apparel.

More Than a T-Shirt Shop

Raleigh Tees offers a wide range of services, including:

• Custom Screen Printing
• Embroidery
• Heat Press and Vinyl Customization
• Collegiate Apparel
• Greek Organization Apparel
• Business Branding and Promotional Merchandise

The company handles everything in-house, providing customers with direct access to experienced designers and production specialists who can help turn ideas into finished products. Raleigh Tees operates multiple printing presses and embroidery machines, making it a true one-stop shop for custom apparel needs. (Raleigh Tees Store⁠)

Supporting Raleigh’s Community

What makes Raleigh Tees stand out is its deep connection to the community. Whether producing shirts for fundraisers, family reunions, nonprofit organizations, youth sports teams, churches, or community events, Raleigh Tees has become a reliable partner for organizations working to make a difference.

Their commitment to customer satisfaction and local service has helped them build lasting relationships with clients throughout Raleigh and beyond. The company proudly serves educational institutions, Greek-letter organizations, community groups, and businesses across North Carolina. (Raleigh Tees Store⁠)

A Trusted Local Brand

In an era when many organizations order apparel online from national vendors, Raleigh Tees continues to provide something valuable: face-to-face service, local expertise, and a commitment to supporting the community they call home.

For organizations looking to create custom apparel that represents their brand, mission, or event, Raleigh Tees remains one of Raleigh’s most trusted and respected local businesses.

Visit Raleigh Tees

Raleigh Tees is located at 4909 Alpinis Drive, Suite 113, Raleigh, NC 27616 and offers custom apparel services for businesses, nonprofits, schools, fraternities, sororities, and community organizations. (Raleigh Tees Store⁠)

For more information, visit 123RaleighTees.com⁠.

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City of Raleigh Government Event Guide: Monday June 1st Edition

Residents interested in Raleigh’s future growth, transportation planning, infrastructure investments, and city budgeting have several opportunities to stay informed and engaged on Monday, June 1, 2026. From community workshops to the first City Council Budget Work Session of the season, today’s schedule highlights important conversations shaping the future of Raleigh.

Reflecting Raleigh Technical Team – Infrastructure and Services

🕓 4:00 PM
📍 City of Raleigh
Category: Community and Workshops

The Reflecting Raleigh initiative continues with a Technical Team meeting focused on Infrastructure and Services. Participants and city staff will discuss long-term planning priorities, public facilities, utilities, and service delivery as Raleigh prepares for future growth. This meeting is part of the city’s ongoing effort to update policies and plans that guide development and community investment.

Why It Matters

As Raleigh continues to grow, infrastructure planning plays a critical role in maintaining quality of life. Discussions may influence future investments in roads, parks, utilities, and city services.

Transportation Together: Let’s Talk About The Big Jump!

🕓 4:00 PM
📍 City of Raleigh
Category: Community Engagement

The City of Raleigh invites residents to participate in Transportation Together: Let’s Talk About The Big Jump!, a community engagement session focused on transportation improvements and mobility planning.

This conversation gives residents an opportunity to learn more about proposed transportation initiatives and provide feedback on how people move throughout the city.

Topics May Include:

• Transit improvements
• Bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure
• Roadway enhancements
• Traffic safety initiatives
• Future transportation investments

Community input helps shape transportation priorities that affect residents across Raleigh.

City Council Budget Work Session

🕓 4:00 PM
📍 Raleigh Municipal Building
Category: Council and Council Committee Meetings

The Raleigh City Council begins its series of Budget Work Sessions for Fiscal Year 2026-27. During these meetings, council members review the proposed city budget, discuss spending priorities, and evaluate investments in public safety, housing, transportation, parks, infrastructure, and city services.

Key Budget Topics This Year

• Public safety staffing and equipment
• Affordable housing investments
• Transportation improvements
• Parks and recreation funding
• Downtown Raleigh initiatives
• Solid waste and stormwater services
• Growth management and planning

The budget process is one of the most important responsibilities of City Council and directly impacts services residents rely on every day.

Get Involved in Raleigh’s Future

Whether you’re interested in transportation, infrastructure, city services, or the municipal budget, Monday’s meetings offer valuable opportunities to learn how local government works and how decisions are made.

Public participation helps ensure Raleigh’s future reflects the needs and priorities of its residents.

For more local government news, meeting recaps, and civic engagement opportunities, visit DoRaleigh.com daily.

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City of Raleigh Government Event Guide Tuesday May 26th Edition

The City of Raleigh has another busy day of meetings, workshops, and public engagement opportunities scheduled for Tuesday, May 26, 2026. Residents can follow city planning discussions, transportation conversations, bicycle and pedestrian advisory meetings, and public art updates happening throughout the day.

Several City Council committee meetings have also been canceled for Tuesday.

Here’s your DoRaleigh City Government Event Guide.

Tuesday, May 26, 2026 Government Meetings and Events

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will meet Tuesday morning to discuss planning and development matters impacting Raleigh’s future growth.

Time: 9 a.m.
Category: Boards and Commissions

Community Safety and Quality of Life Committee Meeting — CANCELLED

The Community Safety and Quality of Life Committee meeting has been canceled.

Time: 11:30 a.m.
Category: Council and Council Committee Meetings

Economic Development and Innovation Committee Meeting — CANCELLED

The Economic Development and Innovation Committee meeting has been canceled.

Time: 1:30 p.m.
Category: Council and Council Committee Meetings

Transportation Together: Let’s Talk About The Big Jump!

Residents are invited to participate in a transportation-focused community engagement session discussing “The Big Jump,” Raleigh’s long-range transportation planning efforts.

Time: 4 p.m.
Category: Community Engagement

BPAC Policy Committee

The Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Commission Policy Committee will meet Tuesday afternoon.

Time: 4 p.m.
Category: Boards and Commissions

Housing and Environment Committee Meeting — CANCELLED

The Housing and Environment Committee meeting has been canceled.

Time: 4 p.m.
Category: Council and Council Committee Meetings

Public Art and Design Board Meeting

The Public Art and Design Board will meet to discuss public art initiatives and design-related projects throughout Raleigh.

Time: 5 p.m.
Category: Boards and Commissions

BPAC Planning Committee

The Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Commission Planning Committee will meet Tuesday evening.

Time: 5:15 p.m.
Category: Boards and Commissions

For Details on these events visit The City of Raleigh Website.

Stay Connected With Raleigh Government News

DoRaleigh continues to follow Raleigh City Council meetings, transportation initiatives, planning updates, public engagement opportunities, and board and commission meetings impacting residents across the city.

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Raleigh City Council Recap: Budget Proposal, New Bonds, BRT Expansion, and Major Rezoning Updates

The Raleigh City Council tackled major budget discussions, transportation planning, rezonings, and bond approvals during its May 19 meeting, setting the stage for several major decisions that will shape the future of Raleigh.

Among the biggest developments were a proposed property tax increase, new investments in public safety and downtown infrastructure, endorsement of the Wake Bus Rapid Transit Northern Corridor plan, and approval of more than $203 million in proposed housing and transportation bonds for the November 2026 ballot.

FY2026-27 Proposed Budget Includes Tax Increase and New Public Safety Positions

City leaders presented the proposed FY2026-27 Operating Budget and Five-Year Capital Improvement Program (CIP), which includes a proposed 1.7 cent property tax increase.

According to city staff, the increase would close a projected $13 million deficit while funding several council priorities and service expansions.

Proposed Budget Highlights

• 23 additional police officer positions — the first increase since 2017
• 12 additional firefighter positions — the first increase since 2015
• Six new Emergency Communications call takers over the next three years
• $2 million for downtown parking initiatives
• $3 million for Dorothea Dix Park improvements
• 8.75 additional positions for Dix Park operations
• Six new staff positions in Planning and Development
• Six new staff positions in Solid Waste Services
• Expansion of the Engagement Network to continue supporting community engagement and CAC-style neighborhood connections

The proposed budget also includes increases to:

• Stormwater fees
• Water fees
• Solid waste service fees

Part of the solid waste changes would support a shift to weekly yard waste collection, replacing seasonal leaf collection.

Budget Work Sessions Begin June 1

City Council will begin budget work sessions on June 1 and continue meeting every Monday in June until the budget and CIP are formally adopted.

Public Hearing Information

A public hearing on the proposed FY2026-27 budget and CIP is scheduled for Tuesday, June 2.

Residents who want to speak during the hearing must register by 3 p.m. on Friday, May 29 through the city website.

Paper copies of the budget will also be available for review at the Office of the City Clerk located at:

• 222 West Hargett Street
• Suite 207
• Raleigh, NC

Wake BRT Northern Corridor Receives Unanimous Support

Council unanimously endorsed the findings of the Wake Bus Rapid Transit Northern Corridor Major Investment Study.

The vote supports:

• Midtown Alignment 6
• Triangle Town Center 3

as the Locally Preferred Alternatives for the corridor study.

The Northern Corridor is part of the region’s expanding Bus Rapid Transit network designed to improve transit connectivity and mobility across Raleigh and Wake County.

$203 Million in Affordable Housing and Transportation Bonds Advance

One of the most significant actions of the night involved the proposed November 2026 bond referendum.

Council approved the second reading of two separate bond orders:

• $101.5 million for Affordable Housing Bonds
• $101.5 million for Transportation Bonds

The measures will now move forward toward the November 2026 election ballot pending required publication and election procedures.

City Council also directed the City Clerk to coordinate required notices and filings with the Wake and Durham County Boards of Elections.

Public Comment Focused on Poverty, Stormwater, Preservation, and Trees

Residents speaking during public comment raised concerns and advocacy around:

• Poverty
• Stormwater management
• Historic preservation
• Tree protections

These topics continue to remain major discussion points as Raleigh manages rapid growth and redevelopment pressures.

Arts Commission and Public Art Plans Approved

Council unanimously approved annual work plans for:

• The Raleigh Arts Commission
• The Public Art and Design Board

The plans help guide city-supported arts programming and future public art initiatives throughout Raleigh.

Annexations and Rezonings Approved

Council unanimously approved several annexations and rezonings during the meeting.

Approved Annexations

• 7929 Ligon Mill Road
• 3800 Jones Sausage Road
• 511 Strother Road
• Raleigh-Knightdale Annexation Agreement

Approved Rezonings

• Z-35-25 – Ligon Mill Road
• Z-15-25 – Randleigh Farm area near Auburn Knightdale Road and Battle Bridge Road
• Z-37-25 – Avent Ferry Road area
• Z-53-25 – 5601 Six Forks Road

Rezoning Held Open

Rezoning Z-39-25 at 319 Heck Street near Oakwood Avenue was held open until June 16 for additional discussion about proposed conditions.

Upcoming Public Hearings

June 2 Public Hearings

• FY2026-27 Budget and CIP
• Rezoning Z-43-25 – Litchford Road
• Rezoning Z-01-26 – Martin Street / Commerce Place / Davie Street
• Text Change TCZ-02-26 – Creedmoor Road

June 16 Public Hearings

• Jones Ridge Trail Annexation and Rezoning
• Rezoning near Glenwood Avenue and West Jones Street
• New Bern Avenue BRT Corridor rezoning proposal

Traffic Calming Policy Discussion Scheduled

The Transportation and Transit Committee will discuss Traffic Calming Policy updates on Thursday, May 28 from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.

District E Community Meetings Announced

Councilor Christina Jones announced several upcoming community events:

• District E monthly meeting — June 10 from 6-8 p.m. at La Cucina
• Book club meeting — June 13 from 9:30-11:30 a.m. at New World Cafe
• Virtual sewage spill discussion — May 21 from 6-7 p.m.

View the Full official notes from the Raleigh City Council

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The Triangle Event Guide Weekend Edition: Best Things To Do Around Raleigh, Durham, Cary & The Triangle (May 22-24, 2026)

Looking for the best things to do in Raleigh, Durham, Cary, Chapel Hill, Apex, Wake Forest, Pittsboro, and across the Triangle this Memorial Day Weekend? The Triangle is packed with free concerts, outdoor festivals, food truck rodeos, live music, family-friendly activities, comedy shows, plant swaps, farmers markets, yoga classes, and community events all weekend long.

From the NC Sugar Rush Dessert Market in downtown Raleigh to Taste of Soul NC in Durham and JawsFest in Chapel Hill, there’s something happening for everyone across the Triangle this weekend.

Friday, May 22, 2026 Events in the Triangle

Kick off Memorial Day Weekend with live music, free wine tastings, outdoor movies, karaoke nights, and brewery events around Raleigh, Durham, Cary, Carrboro, and beyond.

Featured Friday Events

• Shake Shack free burger deal at participating locations
• Free coffee tasting at Counter Culture Coffee in Durham
• Movie Night: Wicked (For Good) at Downtown Cary Park
• Vinyl Night at Raleigh Brewing
• Live Music on the Patio with Drew Holgate at Oak City Brewing in Knightdale
• Summer at The Springs concert featuring The Phoebes in Holly Springs
• Freight Train Blues concert in Carrboro
• Karaoke Bingo Night at KōMANA Brewing in Cary
• Stand-up Comedy Open Mic at Durty Bull Brewing in Durham
• Karaoke with Mega Mike at Crank Arm Brewing in Raleigh
• Live Music featuring the VELDT, Candy Coffins, and the Mystery Plan at Slim’s in Raleigh

Family-Friendly Friday Activities

Families can enjoy:

• Park Tales: The Little Red Hen at Historic Yates Mill County Park
• Garden Storytime at JC Raulston Arboretum
• Historic Yates Mill tours throughout the afternoon

Saturday, May 23, 2026 Events in Raleigh, Durham & The Triangle

Saturday is packed with some of the biggest community events and free festivals of the weekend.

Major Saturday Festivals & Community Events

NC Sugar Rush Dessert Weekend

Dessert lovers can start the weekend early before Sunday’s major rodeo event in downtown Raleigh.

9th Annual Raleigh Spring Train Show

Train enthusiasts can head to the NC State Fairgrounds for one of the region’s biggest train showcases featuring vendors, exhibits, and model railroads.

Taste of Soul NC – Durham

Durham Central Park hosts Taste of Soul NC featuring food vendors, live music, local businesses, culture, and entertainment.

Orange-Chatham African American Cultural Festival

Celebrate local culture, music, food, and history at this free community festival in Chapel Hill.

Darkness RISING Block Party – Moore Square

This arts and mental health awareness event in downtown Raleigh includes performances, activities, vendors, and community resources.

Best Free Saturday Events

Some of the top free things to do Saturday include:

• Instrument Petting Zoo at Dix Park
• Plant Swap at the City of Raleigh Museum
• The Great Pup Meet Up at Dorothea Dix Park
• Free Guided Tours of the NC State Capitol
• Free Dix Park trolley tours
• Cary Really Really Free Market
• Tribute to Rock concert at Compass Rose Brewery
• Saturdays in Saxapahaw Outdoor Concert Series
• Beer Garden Concert Series at The Glass Jug Beer Lab RTP

Saturday Night Live Music & Entertainment

The Triangle’s brewery and nightlife scene is active all night with:

• Live music at Fortnight Brewing in Cary and Wake Forest
• Southern Peak Brewery live music in Apex
• Open Mic/Karaoke Night at Compass Rose Brewery
• Sacred Grounds Coffeehouse Concert in Durham
• All Out ‘80s DJ Night in Fuquay-Varina

Sunday, May 24, 2026 Events in the Triangle

Sunday features dessert festivals, farmers markets, live music, open mic nights, yoga, and family fun across the Triangle.

Featured Sunday Events

NC Sugar Rush Dessert Market Food Truck Rodeo – Raleigh

City Plaza in downtown Raleigh transforms into a massive dessert and food truck festival with sweets, treats, food vendors, and family fun.

JawsFest – Chapel Hill

Midway Alley hosts movie-themed events, games, activities, vendors, and entertainment inspired by the iconic summer blockbuster.

Black Farmers’ Market – Southeast Raleigh YMCA

Support local Black-owned farms and businesses while shopping fresh produce, handmade goods, and community vendors.

Festival of Abundance – Carrboro

Enjoy free food, repair stations, workshops, skill shares, and community activities throughout the day.

Sunday Live Music & Entertainment

Sunday music highlights include:

• Six Sundays in Spring concert in Wake Forest
• Sundays at Sundown concert series in Chapel Hill
• Bluegrass Open Jam at Bond Brothers Eastside in Cary
• The Sunday Set at The Durham Hotel
• Open Mic events at Gizmo Brew Works and Moon Dog Meadery

Sunday Family Activities

Families can also enjoy:

• Historic Yates Mill Open House
• Artspace Open Studio in Raleigh
• Sunday Morning Yoga at Compass Rose Brewery
• Board Games at Guildhall Games in RTP
• Phone-Free Fun at The Glass Jug Downtown Durham

Memorial Day Weekend Deals & Freebies

Throughout the weekend, visitors can take advantage of:

• Shake Shack free burger promotion
• Ace Hardware Memorial Day flag giveaway
• Free yoga classes
• Free concerts across the Triangle
• Free museum tours and trolley rides
• Brewery specials and outdoor entertainment

Final Thoughts

Memorial Day Weekend 2026 is shaping up to be one of the busiest weekends of the year across Raleigh, Durham, Cary, Chapel Hill, Wake Forest, Pittsboro, and surrounding areas. Whether you’re looking for free family fun, food festivals, live music, brewery events, outdoor adventures, cultural festivals, or community celebrations, the Triangle has something happening every day this weekend.

Stay connected with DoRaleigh.com for more local event guides, free things to do, downtown Raleigh nightlife, family-friendly activities, festivals, and Triangle community events.

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Raleigh City Council Recap – Housing Bonds, Transit, Growth, Traffic Safety and Major Rezoning Updates

Raleigh City Council met May 5, 2026, to review housing and transportation bonds, traffic safety updates, rezoning cases, Dix Park funding, the former DMV site, and Reflecting Raleigh civic recommendations.

Raleigh City Council Recap: What Happened at the May 5, 2026 Meeting

Raleigh City Council held its regular afternoon and evening meeting on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, inside Council Chamber at 222 West Hargett Street. The meeting covered a wide range of issues shaping the city’s future, including affordable housing, transportation, neighborhood traffic safety, major development projects, parks funding, public art, and upcoming rezoning hearings.

Major Takeaways

One of the biggest items was the next step toward a potential November 2026 bond referendum. Council moved forward with the process for two proposed bonds: $101.5 million for affordable housing and $101.5 million for transportation, totaling up to $203 million. A public hearing is scheduled for May 19, 2026.

Council also considered the city’s Federal FY 2026–27 Annual Action Plan, which guides Raleigh’s use of HUD funding, including Community Development Block Grant, HOME, and Emergency Solutions Grant dollars.

Housing, Growth and Development

Several annexation and rezoning items moved through the agenda. Council reviewed annexation petitions for properties near Jones Ridge Trail, Aquarius Lane, and Strother Road, with future public hearings planned.

The Planning Commission sent multiple rezoning cases to Council, including:

• Z-43-25 on Litchford Road, which the Planning Commission recommended denying.
• Z-44-25 near Jones Ridge Trail, recommended for approval.
• TCZ-02-26 at 4601 Creedmoor Road, recommended for approval.
• Z-37-25 near Avent Ferry Road, revised to allow up to 478 residential units with a proposed five-story limit.

In the evening session, Council held public hearings on rezoning requests involving Trailwood Drive, Blue Ridge Road, and properties near West Martin Street, Commerce Place, and West Davie Street.

Transportation and Traffic Safety

Council reviewed several transportation-related items, including neighborhood speed limit reductions for La Costa Way and Marcony Way, a new all-way stop recommendation at Milburnie Road and North King Charles Road, and curbside changes near 900 West Morgan Street.

The city also reviewed updates to the Neighborhood Traffic Management Program, including future traffic calming projects and policy changes connected to Raleigh’s Vision Zero goals.

Convention Center and Downtown Projects

Council considered major contract updates tied to the Raleigh Convention Center expansion, including commissioning services from RMF Engineering and several contract amendments related to site conditions and environmental remediation.

The city also moved forward with a contract extension for Sodexo Live!, which includes a $2 million capital investment to support food and beverage service at the expanded Convention Center complex.

Parks, Public Art and Community Funding

Council accepted proposed donations into the Municipal Art Collection, including Dan Nelson’s painting “Memorial Auditorium” and Brian Walsby’s “Prayer, 2023.”

A $100,000 sponsorship from WTVD-TV was also included for the July 4th Celebration at Dix Park.

Council contingency funding requests included support for organizations such as We Plant It Forward, Trees for the Triangle, Raleigh Housing Fund, Tamarisk Community, El Centro Hispano, and Gabi’s Workforce.

Former DMV Headquarters Site Update

City staff provided an update on the redevelopment of the former DMV headquarters site on New Bern Avenue. The site is being positioned as a future transit-oriented development along Raleigh’s Bus Rapid Transit corridor. Updates included demolition, abatement, interim construction staging, temporary activations, market study findings, and future steps to gather development partner input.

Reflecting Raleigh Civic Assembly

Council also received recommendations from the Reflecting Raleigh Civic Assembly, part of the city’s process to create the next Comprehensive Plan. The recommendations focused on how Raleigh should manage growth in neighborhoods served by frequent transit. Visit this link to read or watch the Meeting

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City of Raleigh Government Event Guide – Wednesday April 15th Edition

Looking to stay informed and engaged with what’s happening in local government? The DoRaleigh City of Raleigh Government Event Guide for Wednesday, April 15, 2026 highlights key meetings, community workshops, and cultural events that residents can attend to stay connected and involved.

From planning discussions to community-driven initiatives, here’s what’s happening across Raleigh today.

City of Raleigh Government Events – April 15, 2026

Planting Power Exhibition Closing Reception

🕙 10:00 AM

📍 Hosted by Parks, Recreation, and Athletics

Celebrate the closing of the Planting Power Exhibition, a showcase highlighting sustainability, environmental awareness, and community impact through creative expression. This reception offers a chance to connect with local artists, organizers, and residents passionate about green initiatives in Raleigh.

Planning Commission Text Change Committee

🕓 4:00 PM

📍 Boards and Commissions

The Planning Commission Text Change Committee meets to review and discuss proposed updates to Raleigh’s development regulations. These sessions are essential for understanding how zoning, land use, and city planning policies evolve to shape Raleigh’s growth.

Reflecting Raleigh Technical Team – Land Use

🕓 4:00 PM

📍 Community and Workshops

Part of the ongoing Reflecting Raleigh initiative, this technical team meeting focuses on land use strategies that will help guide the city’s future development. Residents, stakeholders, and community members are encouraged to engage and provide input on Raleigh’s Comprehensive Plan.

Why These Meetings Matter

Raleigh continues to grow rapidly, making community input and civic engagement more important than ever. Attending these meetings gives residents a voice in decisions that impact:

Neighborhood development Housing and zoning policies Environmental sustainability Long-term city planning

Whether you’re a resident, business owner, or community advocate, these events provide valuable opportunities to stay informed and involved.

Stay Connected with Raleigh

Make it a habit to follow local government updates and attend meetings when possible. Your participation helps shape the future of Raleigh and ensures the city reflects the needs of its community.

Follow DoRaleigh for daily updates on Raleigh government meetings, community events, and everything happening across the Triangle.

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Triangle Big Ticket Events Guide (March 24–30, 2026)

Top Concerts, Comedy Shows & Major Events in Raleigh, Durham, Cary & Beyond

Looking for the biggest events happening across the Triangle this week? From major concerts and comedy shows to symphony performances and festivals. The DoRaleigh Triangle Big Ticket Events Guide for March 24–30, 2026 highlights the must-see events across Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill, Cary, and surrounding areas.

Whether you’re into live music, stand-up comedy, or unique experiences, here’s your curated list of top ticketed events in the Triangle.

Tuesday, March 24

Easter Jubilee 🕐 12:45 PM 📍 Rudy Theatre – Selma, NC A lively variety show filled with music, comedy, and family-friendly entertainment.

Wednesday, March 25

Nick Colletti (Comedy) 🕢 7:30 PM 📍 Goodnights Comedy Club – Raleigh

Model/Actriz (Live Music) 🕗 8:00 PM 📍 Cat’s Cradle Back Room – Carrboro

Miguel (Live Concert) 🕗 8:00 PM 📍 The Ritz – Raleigh

Don’t miss Grammy-winning R&B star Miguel live in Raleigh.

Thursday, March 26

Easter Jubilee 🕐 12:45 PM 📍 Rudy Theatre – Selma

Raleigh Comedy Festival 🕖 7:15 PM 📍 Room 861 at Goodnights – Raleigh

Brit Floyd (Pink Floyd Tribute) 🕢 7:30 PM 📍 DPAC – Durham

Clover County 🕗 8:00 PM 📍 Cat’s Cradle Back Room – Carrboro

Geoffrey Asmus (Comedy) 🕘 9:15 PM 📍 Goodnights Comedy Club – Raleigh

Friday, March 27

Friday is packed with some of the biggest events of the week:

David Spade (Comedy) 🕗 8:00 PM 📍 DPAC – Durham

Electric Feels: Indie Rock Dance Party 🕖 7:00 PM 📍 The Ritz – Raleigh

Turtle Smash: Emo Night 🕖 7:00 PM 📍 Cat’s Cradle – Carrboro

International Championship of High School A Cappella Semifinals 🕖 7:00 PM 📍 Carolina Theatre – Durham

Daniel Donato’s Cosmic Country 🕣 8:30 PM 📍 Lincoln Theatre – Raleigh

5AM Trio 🕗 8:00 PM 📍 The Pour House Music Hall – Raleigh

Kloud (Electronic Music) 🕙 10:00 PM 📍 The Underground – Raleigh

Comedy Takeover (Multiple Shows):

Drew Lynch Jason Cheny KC Shornima 📍 Goodnights Comedy Club & Raleigh Improv

Saturday, March 28

North Carolina Symphony: Star Wars & More (Sophie Mok) 🕐 1:00 PM & 4:00 PM 📍 Meymandi Concert Hall – Raleigh

Ali Siddiq (Comedy) 🕖 7:00 PM 📍 Crown Theatre – Fayetteville

Zack Fox (Comedy/Music) 🕗 8:00 PM 📍 The Ritz – Raleigh

Hudson Freeman 🕗 8:00 PM 📍 Cat’s Cradle – Carrboro

Daniel Donato’s Cosmic Country 🕣 8:30 PM 📍 Lincoln Theatre –

Raleigh Taylor Swift Experience Tribute Show 🕢 7:30 PM 📍 Clayton Center – Clayton

🎤 More Comedy Shows Throughout the Night:

Drew Lynch, Jason Cheny, KC Shornima return with multiple showtimes.

Sunday, March 29

Mark Chesnutt (Country Music) 🕓 4:00 PM 📍 Paul A. Johnston Auditorium

Smithfield Lowdown Brass Band 🕗 8:00 PM 📍 Pour House Music Hall

Raleigh Daniel Donato’s Cosmic Country 🕣 8:30 PM 📍 Lincoln Theatre – Raleigh

🎤 Comedy Continues:

Drew Lynch, Jason Cheny, and KC Shornima wrap up the weekend with more performances.

Monday, March 30

Madison Cunningham 🕗 8:00 PM 📍 Cat’s Cradle – Carrboro

On Cinema Live (Tim Heidecker & Gregg Turkington) 🕗 8:00 PM 📍 Carolina Theatre – Durham

Raynes 🕗 8:00 PM 📍 Pour House Music Hall – Raleigh

Why This Week is Big in the Triangle

This week delivers a powerful mix of national touring artists, comedy headliners, symphony performances, and local favorites. Whether you’re catching Miguel, laughing with David Spade, or vibing to live music downtown, this is one of the most stacked weeks for entertainment in the Triangle.

Follow DoRaleigh.com for daily updates on government meetings, local festivals, and community happenings — your one-stop guide to everything in the Triangle!

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The Triangle Event Guide Wednesday January 7th Edition

Looking for things to do across Raleigh, Durham, Cary, Wake Forest, Apex, and Knightdale? The Triangle Event Guide for Wednesday, January 7, 2026, rounds up the best free and low-cost events happening across the region—from board game nights and open mics to live jazz, fitness meetups, and festivals.

Whether you’re planning a laid-back evening with friends or looking to discover something new, there’s plenty happening across the Triangle tonight.

🎲 Games, Social & Community Events

Board Game Night

12:00 pm – 10:00 pm | FREE

Gizmo Brew Works – Durham

Board Game Night

4:00 pm – 10:00 pm | FREE

PourWorks Beer and Wine Shop – Raleigh

Clue and Brew: Scavenger Hunt

6:30 pm | FREE

Oak City Brewing Company – Knightdale

Weekly Skee Ball Tournament

8:00 pm – 10:30 pm | FREE

Boxcar Bar + Arcade – Durham

Beer Pong Tournament

8:30 pm – 11:00 pm | FREE

Boxcar Bar and Arcade – Raleigh

📚 Arts, Music & Creative Nights

Book Club at Bird’s Nest

5:00 pm – 10:00 pm | FREE

Blackbird Brewery – Wake Forest

Live Jazz in the Study

6:00 pm – 9:00 pm | FREE

Peck & Plume – Cary

City Soul Cafe Open Mic

8:00 pm – 11:00 pm | $10

Terminal 8 Bar & Lounge – Raleigh

Open Mic Week

8:00 pm | FREE

Abbey Road Cary – Cary

🧘‍♀️ Fitness & Movement

Free Acro Yoga at Method Road Park (Indoors)

5:30 pm – 8:30 pm | FREE

Pullen Park – Raleigh

Raleigh Drum Circle and Hoop Jam

7:00 pm – 8:30 pm | FREE

Method Road Park – Raleigh

🎤 Karaoke & Nightlife

Karaoke Night at The Backyard Bar

8:00 pm – 10:30 pm | FREE

The Backyard Bar – Apex

Karaoke at Moon Dog Meadery

8:00 pm – 11:45 pm | FREE

Moon Dog Meadery and Bottle Shop – Durham

Featured Event

North Carolina Chinese Lantern Festival

6:00 pm – 10:00 pm | $16.74–$30.64

Koka Booth Amphitheatre – Cary

One of the Triangle’s most popular seasonal attractions, the Chinese Lantern Festival features illuminated displays, performances, and food vendors—perfect for a midweek night out.

Why Check the Triangle Event Guide?

The Triangle offers something happening every night of the week. From free community gatherings to major festivals, this guide helps you:

Discover free and low-cost local events Support local venues and artists Explore different towns across the Triangle Plan your week without scrolling endlessly

Check back daily on DoRaleigh.com for the latest Triangle and Downtown Raleigh event guides.

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