So much happening across Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill & beyond – here are the highlights
🍩 $2 Old Skool Rolls @ Cinnaholic (all day!) https://doraleigh.com
🎶 Raleigh Wide Open Music Fest – 5–11PM | Fayetteville St.
🎨 First Friday: Artspace, Gallery Walks, CoLab, Knightdale pop-ups + more
🎥 Movie Nights: Beetlejuice Beetlejuice @ Moore Square & Coco @ Halifax Park
#TriangleEvents #RaleighEvents #DurhamEvents #ChapelHillEvents #FirstFridayRaleigh #Oktoberfest #DoRaleigh

Hang out on Friday, October 3rd, at the City of Raleigh Museum for Raleigh Wide Open's Gospel Panels. #RaleighWideOpen #RaleighEvents #FirstFridayRaleigh #DowntownRaleigh #DoRaleigh #GospelMusic #RaleighArts

Raleigh Wide Open First Friday Gospel Panels at the City of Raleigh Museum

Experience the Soul of Gospel at Raleigh Wide Open, On Friday, October 3, 2025, from 5:00 to 9:00 p.m., the City of Raleigh Museum will come alive with the spirit of gospel music during Raleigh Wide Open: First Friday Panels. This special program highlights the rich history and cultural influence of gospel through live talks and storytelling.

The evening begins with Appaloosa Redd and Greensboro musician-storyteller Colin Cutler, who will guide audiences through the Gospel of the Blues. Their conversation explores the deep connections between gospel and blues traditions. Following this, Kendall Kent will present on the power of the gospel quartet tradition, spotlighting the artistry of the bass voice and its role in shaping gospel’s enduring resonance.

Event Details

Date: Friday, October 3, 2025 Time: 5:00 – 9:00 p.m. Location: City of Raleigh Museum, Downtown Raleigh Cost: Free Ages: All ages welcome

Whether you’re a longtime gospel fan, a lover of local music culture, or just looking for a free First Friday event in downtown Raleigh, this program promises to inspire and connect audiences with the heart of gospel music.

Don’t miss your chance to be part of this free cultural celebration!

Your week, your city, your fun — stay connected with everything happening in the Raleigh at DoRaleigh.com

#Arts #CityOfRaleigh #CityOfRaleighEventGuide #CityOfRaleighMuseum #downtownRaleigh #events #firstFridayRaleigh #FreeRaleighEvents #GospelMusic #music #News #raleigh #RaleighArts #RaleighEvents #RaleighWideOpen

Triangle 1st Friday Kickoff – Friday, Oct 3! ✨🎉 https://doraleigh.com
#TriangleEvents #RaleighEvents #DurhamEvents #ChapelHillEvents #FirstFridayRaleigh #Oktoberfest #DoRaleigh

The Downtown Raleigh Entertainment Guide Friday October 3rd Edition

Celebrate First Friday in Downtown Raleigh

Downtown Raleigh is the place to be on Friday, October 3, 2025, with a full lineup of First Friday art walks, live performances, tours, and community events. Whether you’re looking to kick back with live music, enjoy cultural festivals, or dive into Raleigh’s art scene, there’s something for everyone.

Start the day with Feel Good Fridays at The Mecca (7:30 a.m. – 2 p.m.) before exploring downtown’s many First Friday highlights. From cocktail mixers at The Architect Bar, Ladies Night at The Merchant, and the darkly creative Fish Market: Dark Arts, the evening will be buzzing with energy.

Festivals, Markets, and Community Events

Big celebrations include the Raleigh Wide Open Music Festival at City Plaza, the 13th Annual Raleigh Film and Art Festival at William Peace University, and Sip Sip Hooray: Hartwell’s 4th Birthday Party. Shoppers can enjoy a First Friday Market & Movie Night at Moore Square, the Vintage Sip ‘n Shop at Origami Styling, and the Celebrate Local Flavor Canned Iced Tea Launch at The Self Care Marketplace.

Family-friendly fun is everywhere with the Spooky Hollow First Friday at Smoky Hollow, free Twilark Concert at Wolfe & Porter, and hands-on crafting like Make & Take a Raleigh Acorn Bell at Designed For Joy.

Tours, Music, and Nightlife

History lovers can explore Raleigh on a Historian-Guided Tour (3 p.m. at Jimmy V’s) or discover secrets on the Downtown Raleigh True Crime Tour (8 p.m. at Moore Square) and the Haunted History Tour (7 p.m.).

Music takes center stage with Michael Parker at The Davie, The Dan Davis Group at Slim’s Downtown, and the North Carolina Symphony’s Music of John Williams performance. Additional live sets include Bud Bar and the Frozen Fridays series at Wolfe & Porter.

Art and Culture

First Friday is all about art in downtown Raleigh. Explore exhibits like Annie Leist: Real Paintings at Arts Access Gallery, The Elisabeth Speight Collection at Gallery C, and open studios at The Carter Building. Artspace’s October First Friday (4–10 p.m.) and Curate Raleigh’s showcase (6–9 p.m.) will keep art lovers inspired all night.

Plan Your First Friday

With so many events—spanning art, food, music, tours, and nightlife—October’s First Friday is one of the biggest nights of the year in downtown Raleigh. Whether you’re looking for a fun date night, family-friendly activities, or an all-night celebration, downtown has it all.

📍 When: Friday, October 3, 2025

📍 Where: Downtown Raleigh

📍 Cost: Many events are free!

Your week, your city, your fun — stay connected with everything happening in the Raleigh at DoRaleigh.com

#DoRaleigh #downtownRaleigh #DowntownRaleighEntertainmentGuide #events #firstFridayRaleigh #News #raleigh #RaleighArts #RaleighEntertainment #RaleighEvents #RaleighFilmFestival #RaleighMusic #RaleighNightlife #RaleighTours

The Triangle Entertainment Guide Friday October 3rd Edition

Friday Fun Across the Triangle

Friday, October 3, 2025, is packed with entertainment options for everyone across the Triangle. Whether you’re looking for live music, fall festivals, Oktoberfest celebrations, First Friday art walks, or family-friendly movie nights, this guide has you covered.

Start your day with sweet savings at Cinnaholic, offering $2 Old Skool Rolls at various locations, or take in the colorful Día de los Muertos Ofrenda at Duke University Chapel. In Chapel Hill, explore Sculpture in the Garden at the North Carolina Botanical Garden, or dive into science with an Incredible Science program at Raleigh’s Museum of Natural Sciences.

As the evening kicks off, enjoy hands-on demos at the Fall Pottery and Glass Festival in Creedmoor, experience Sensory-Friendly Hour at Artspace, or bring the family to Raleigh’s SPOOK-tacular Fall Festival at Method Road Park. Downtown Selma hosts Railroad Days, while Raleigh’s First Friday Market & Movie Night screens Beetlejuice Beetlejuice at Moore Square. Meanwhile, beer lovers can head to the Triangle Oktoberfest at Booth Amphitheatre or the Raleigh Wide Open Music Festival on Fayetteville Street.

First Friday Highlights

Celebrate First Friday with events across the region:

Downtown Fuquay-Varina (5–9 p.m.) Oak City Brewing Company, Knightdale – live music, vendors, pumpkin patch, and food trucks Artspace, Raleigh – extended hours, exhibitions, and special programming Raleigh Gallery Walk – explore downtown’s art scene from 6–9 p.m. CoLab Raleigh – Fear theme event, 6–11 p.m.

Music, Markets, and More

Outdoor stages and breweries are alive with sound this Friday. Catch Kai Wilson at Fred G. Bond Metro Park, Shirlette Ammons at the Gregg Museum, or The Phoebes at Glass Jug Beer Lab. In Durham, the PLAYlist concert series at Durham Central Park brings local talent, while Hi-Wire Brewing hosts a Taylor Swift Silent Disco for fans who want to sing and dance the night away.

Families can settle in for Movie on the Lawn at Halifax Park (Coco) or a Drive-In Movie and Sing-along of Wicked at Pittsboro’s Mosaic Commons. Ghost hunters will love Spirits of Wake Forest, offering multiple start times for guided walks downtown.

Nightlife and Late-Night Fun

As the night rolls on, enjoy karaoke with Mega Mike at Crank Arm Brewing, open mic comedy at Durty Bull Brewing, or Karaoke Bingo Nights at KōMANA Brewing in Cary. If gaming is your thing, join Video Game Night at Moon Dog Meadery in Durham. For those who like a view, The Durham Hotel’s rooftop hosts The Get Down on the Roof, blending city lights with great music.

Plan Your Friday

From free community festivals to music, art, and nightlife, Friday, October 3, 2025, offers something for everyone across the Triangle. Whether you’re exploring downtown Raleigh, heading to Durham for a concert, or taking the family to a fall festival, the Triangle’s weekend kicks off in style.

Your week, your city, your fun — stay connected with everything happening in the Raleigh at DoRaleigh.com

#Cary #ChapelHillEvents #Durham #DurhamEvents #events #firstFridayRaleigh #FreeRaleighEvents #News #OktoberfestRaleigh #raleigh #RaleighConcerts #RaleighEvents #RaleighFestivals #TriangleEntertainmentGuide #TriangleEvents #TriangleThingsToDo

Celebrate the sounds, stories, and spirit of gospel music this First Friday in downtown Raleigh! https://doraleigh.com/2025/10/03/raleigh-government-event-guide-oct-3-2025/
#RaleighWideOpen #RaleighEvents #FirstFridayRaleigh #DowntownRaleigh #DoRaleigh #GospelMusic #RaleighArts

First Friday in Raleigh just got soulful!
#RaleighWideOpen #RaleighEvents #FirstFridayRaleigh #DowntownRaleigh #DoRaleigh #GospelMusic #RaleighArts

The City of Raleigh Government Event Guide Friday October 3rd Edition

Raleigh Wide Open Panels – First Friday

Kick off your First Friday with an evening of culture and storytelling at the City of Raleigh Museum. From 5:00–9:00 p.m., Raleigh Wide Open Panels explores the sounds and traditions of gospel music through live talks and dynamic conversations. Guests include Appaloosa Redd and Greensboro musician-storyteller Colin Cutler, who will discuss the Gospel of the Blues. Later, Kendall Kent will dive into the legacy of gospel quartets and the powerful resonance of the bass voice. This free event is open to all ages and promises to enrich Raleigh’s First Friday experience.

📍 Location: City of Raleigh Museum

🕔 Time: 5:00 – 9:00 p.m.

💵 Cost: Free | All Ages

Friday Night Market & Movie with Get2Know Raleigh

For a family-friendly downtown experience, head over to the Friday Night Market and Movie with Get2Know Raleigh. Beginning at 5:00 p.m., browse local vendors and community partners at the market before settling in for an outdoor screening of the spooky cult classic “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice.” This event combines arts, entertainment, and community engagement—perfect for a fall Friday night out in Raleigh.

📍 Location: Downtown Raleigh (Parks, Recreation & Athletics venue)

🕔 Time: 5:00 p.m. start

🎥 Movie: Beetlejuice Beetlejuice

💵 Cost: Free | RSVP recommended

Plan Your Friday in Downtown Raleigh

Whether you’re exploring gospel music traditions at the museum or enjoying a market and movie under the stars, the City of Raleigh’s October 3rd lineup is full of free, community-focused activities. Make it a night to remember in downtown Raleigh!

#BeetlejuiceBeetlejuice #CityOfRaleigh #CityOfRaleighEventGuide #downtownRaleigh #events #firstFridayRaleigh #FreeRaleighEvents #News #raleigh #RaleighEvents #RaleighGovernment #RaleighMarkets #RaleighParksAndRecreation #RaleighWideOpen

Downtown Raleigh Entertainment Guide – Weekend Edition (August 1–3, 2025)

Looking for the best things to do in Downtown Raleigh this weekend? From First Friday art walks and live music to restaurant specials, food tours, and cultural events, there’s something for everyone. Here’s your Downtown Raleigh Entertainment Guide to make the most of August 1–3, 2025.

Friday, August 1, 2025 – First Friday Fun

Morning & Daytime Events

Audio Advice Live (Sheraton Raleigh Hotel) 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. (also Sat & Sun) | Explore cutting-edge home audio and home theater systems. Feel Good Fridays at The Mecca (The Mecca Restaurant) 7:30 a.m.–2:00 p.m. | Classic Raleigh breakfast & lunch tradition. Downtown Raleigh Historian-Guided Tour (Jimmy V’s Osteria + Bar) 3:00 p.m. | Discover hidden Raleigh history. Downtown Raleigh True Crime Tour (Moore Square) 8:00 p.m. | Explore Raleigh’s mysterious past on a guided evening walk.

Evening First Friday Highlights

First Friday Cocktail Mixer & DJ Party (The Architect Bar & Social House) | Nightlife vibes. First Friday Ladies Night (The Merchant) | Live music & specials. Immerse: Wellness Event (Current Wellness) 5:30 p.m.–6:15 p.m. | Mindfulness & movement. Make & Take Raleigh Acorn Bell (Designed For Joy) | Craft your own keepsake. Black Excellence: Speak. Echo. Rise (William Peace Theatre) 7:30 p.m.–9:00 p.m. | Inspiring spoken word & performance. First Friday Market & Movie Night (Moore Square) 5:00 p.m.–9:00 p.m. | Shop local & watch a family-friendly film. Raleigh Shop & Rock: Battle of the Bands (City Plaza) 2:00 p.m.–9:00 p.m. | Live music showdown. First Friday Art Experiences Le Dive w/ Old Ghosts Tattoo Flash (5:00–10:00 p.m.) Gallery C: Picasso Lithographs (6:00–8:00 p.m.) Glenwood Fine Art “Sweet Summertime” Exhibit (6:00–8:00 p.m.) Grand Opening: Casa Imperial Finery (Pop-Up Shops at Wilmington Street) 11:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m. First Friday Live Music: Michael Parker (The Davie) 8:00 p.m.–11:00 p.m. Frozen Fridays (Wolfe & Porter) 6:00 p.m.–11:00 p.m. | Cool cocktails and live music.

Saturday, August 2, 2025 – Music, Food, and Exploration

A Taste of Downtown Raleigh Food Tour (City of Raleigh Museum) 2:30 p.m.–5:30 p.m. | Savor Raleigh’s food scene. Recharge: A Space to Anchor Amidst the Sea of Diet Culture (Current Wellness) 12:45 p.m.–1:45 p.m. | Wellness session. The Flaming Lips & Modest Mouse (Red Hat Amphitheater) | A can’t-miss concert. Black Excellence: Speak. Echo. Rise (William Peace Theatre) 7:30 p.m.–9:00 p.m. | Encore performance. Boatman Spirits Departure Party (Boatman Spirits Co.) 8:00 p.m. | Live music and tastings. Clothing & Shoes with Jupiter 2! (Slim’s Downtown) 9:00 p.m.–11:00 p.m. | Live music downtown. Downtown Raleigh Treasure Hunt – Walking Team Scavenger Hunt! (Sir Walter Coffee) 6:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m. | Interactive challenge. Jazz Brunch (Sitti Authentic Lebanese) 10:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m. | Jose Albizu Jazz Trio. Singer-Songwriter Concert (Wolfe & Porter) 8:00 p.m. | Acoustic performances.

Sunday, August 3, 2025 – Food & Culture

Closing Day – Downtown Raleigh Restaurant Week Celebrate the finale of special menus at: Birdie’s Barroom & Kitchen Gravy Sitti Authentic Lebanese Taverna Agora The Pit The Raleigh Times Bar Vidrio Sunday Tradition: Half-Priced Spaghetti & Meatballs (Gravy) 11:00 a.m.–10:00 p.m. Raleigh African American History Tour (Jimmy V’s Osteria + Bar) 4:00 p.m.–5:00 p.m. Roots Rock Reggae Party with DJ Robb (Slim’s Downtown) 9:00 p.m.–12:00 a.m. | Sunday night vibes. Frame x Iris Matcha Pop-Up (Iris Coffee Lab) 11:00 a.m. | Coffee culture meets fashion.

Why Visit Downtown Raleigh This Weekend?

Diverse Entertainment: From concerts to cultural tours and art openings. Culinary Delights: Taste the best of Downtown Raleigh during Restaurant Week. Local Art & Music: Celebrate First Friday with markets, music, and late-night gallery events. Unique Raleigh Vibes: True crime tours, wellness workshops, and exclusive pop-up shops.

Stay Updated

For full event calendars and updates, follow DoRaleigh.com — your official source for Raleigh happenings.

#downtownRaleigh #DowntownRaleighEvents #downtownRaleighTours #events #firstFridayRaleigh #liveMusicRaleigh #News #raleigh #RaleighEntertainmentGuide #raleighFoodTours #RaleighNightlife #raleighRestaurantWeek #thingsToDoRaleighWeekend

This Week in Downtown Raleigh – Your Entertainment Guide (June 30 – July 4, 2025)

Downtown Raleigh is alive this week with music, mingling, trivia, tacos, and all kinds of summer fun leading into a jam-packed First Friday and 4th of July weekend. Whether you’re craving live jazz, karaoke chaos, or sipping wine under the stars, this is your go-to guide for everything happening in the heart of the city.

MONDAY, JUNE 30

✨ “Meet Me at Slim’s” Monday Neighborhood Mingle

🕔 5:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. | 📍 Slim’s Downtown

Ease into the week with drinks, good company, and old-school bar vibes at Slim’s. It’s a casual meet-up where neighbors become friends—and regulars.

TUESDAY, JULY 1

🎉 After Work Shenanigans – Tuesdays at Slim’s

🕟 4:30 p.m. – 2:00 a.m. | 📍 Slim’s Downtown

Your post-work plans are set. Cold drinks, cool tunes, and good vibes await at Slim’s, all night long.

🎤 Open Mic Jam Session with a Live Band

🕘 9:00 p.m. – 11:45 p.m. | 📍 Slim’s Downtown

This isn’t your average open mic—join a live band and get your groove on. Singers, rappers, instrumentalists—bring your talent!

🧠 Tuesday Night Trivia

📍 Morgan Street Food Hall | 🕢 7:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

📍 Wolfe & Porter | 🕖 7:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.

Grab a team and test your knowledge at two of downtown’s coziest spots. Great prizes and even better bragging rights await.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 2

🎷 Al Strong & Friends Jazz Night

🕗 8:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m. | 📍 Boatman Spirits Co.

Immerse yourself in smooth jazz by local legend Al Strong and his crew—cocktails and class all in one.

🦪 Carolina Clam N Jam

📍 Good Day Good Night

Good eats meet good beats at this seafood-loving social gathering. (Details TBA—keep your eyes on socials!)

🧀 Mac-n-Cheese Night at Le Dive

🕔 5:00 p.m. – 12:00 a.m. | 📍 Le Dive

Comfort food heaven: creative mac-and-cheese dishes paired with cocktails? Yes, please.

🎤 Wednesday Karaoke at Neptunes!

🕘 9:00 p.m. – 2:00 a.m. | 📍 Neptunes Parlour

Underground bar + unfiltered karaoke = a Wednesday night worth remembering (or not).

🎵 Music Bingo at Wolfe & Porter

🕖 7:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.

Match the tunes to your bingo card and win fun prizes. It’s part game, part party.

🍷 Wine Wednesdays at Sitti

🕚 11:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. | 📍 Sitti Authentic Lebanese

Pair award-winning Lebanese cuisine with curated wines. Midweek reset: unlocked.

🛍️ The Midweek Market at Moore Square

🕓 4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Support local makers, farmers, and artists at this outdoor community market.

🍷 Evening Wine Tastings at Mulino

🕔 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. | 📍 Mulino Italian Kitchen & Bar

Kick off your evening with wine tastings in Mulino’s charming patio garden.

THURSDAY, JULY 3

🍔 Burger Night at Le Dive

Burgers and drink specials all evening. Classic diner vibes with a downtown twist.

🎤 Karaoke at Zenith Raleigh

🕘 9:00 p.m. | 📍 Zenith Raleigh

Let loose and sing your favorite hits in a high-energy nightlife setting.

FRIDAY, JULY 4 – INDEPENDENCE DAY

☀️ Beat the Heat Party at Origami Styling

🕚 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Cool off and enjoy midday surprises at this summer pop-up celebration.

😎 Feel Good Fridays at The Mecca

🕖 7:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Breakfast, brunch, and unbeatable downtown charm at Raleigh’s historic diner.

🎨 First Friday Festivities

Explore the city’s art, music, food, and fun in full force:

🍹 Cocktail Mixer & DJ Party – The Architect Bar and Social House 👯‍♀️ Ladies Night – The Merchant 🖋️ Tattoo Pop-Up with Old Ghosts – Le Dive (5–10 p.m.) 🖼️ First Friday at CAM Raleigh – 6–9 p.m. 🍪 Captain Cookie & the Milkman – 6–10 p.m. 🍻 First Friday at The Times – 7–11 p.m.

✨ Stay in the Loop

Follow DoRaleigh.com for everything happening Downtown—day or night, all week long.

#DowntownRaleigh #FirstFridayRaleigh #TriangleEvents #RaleighNightlife

#Arts #downtownRaleigh #DowntownRaleigh #events #FirstFridayRaleigh #Food #music #News #raleigh #RaleighNightlife #TriangleEvents