What’s a “brat summer” and how do I have one in Raleigh?

Thanks to Charli XCX’s hit pop album, we’re here to decode why “brat” is all over the airwaves, internet, and right outside your front door.

"Raleigh" written in arial font on a slime green background.

As Charli XCX sings, “I’m a brat when I’m bumpin’ that.”

Graphic made with bratgenerator.com

Slime green word salad. Viral TikTok dances. BRATcha lemonade from Purr Cup Cafe. Your Gen Z + Millennial relatives calling you “so brat.”

It’s been a “brat summer” whether you knew it or not, so we’re here to explain what it means and how to get in on the fun before flannels and pumpkin spice lattes take over in a few months.

Released on June 7, British singer Charli XCX’s album “brat” debuted at #3 on the Billboard charts. Each of its 15 tracks examine existential topics like womanhood, family, and insecurity — all with an electric veneer of dance pop partying. In essence, to be a “brat” is to be yourself, flaws and all, while still having fun.

Now that you’re caught up on the concept, here are three spots to live out your very own “brat summer” in Raleigh.

Killjoy | What’s more “brat” than the bright green Midori in the Secret Garden cocktail?

Edge of Urge | Pick up some quirky hair clips and other trendy accessories from this eclectic shop — maybe a Charli XCX birthday card too?

Enjoy some greenspaces | “Brat summer” doesn’t mean you have to stay inside. Spot brat green out in the wild at Raleigh’s many local parks.

More from RALtoday
Raleigh restaurants, cafes, and diners serving up all the eggs, pancakes, mimosas, and other brunch favorites you want to eat.
Give your kiddos a summer filled with fun at these local summer camps.
Oscar Diaz, from Durham’s Little Bull and Aaktun, is one of 15 “cheftestants” on season 23 of Bravo’s “Top Chef,” and we learned more about his favorite local spots at the Charlotte premiere.
Help us create a growing guide to small businesses by submitting your favorite local makers, restaurants, and professionals, and sharing this page with a friend.
Bookmark this guide for a curated list of events taking place each month that we’re most looking forward to.
Needlepoint is one of the biggest “analog hobby” trends. Here’s where to learn and meet other stitchers.
In case you hadn’t noticed, Raleigh’s growing in a big way, and some mixed-use developments are set to transform downtown + Midtown in 2026 and beyond. Here’s what you need to know about three major developments.
Discover the top Raleigh business podcasts, voices, and local resources our readers are tuning into — from must-listen interviews to expert insights.
Visit The Magic of the Fourth Ward: A Journey Through Time and Culture at the Martin Marietta Center to learn more about this vibrant neighborhood destroyed by urban renewal.
Microsoft, the world’s No. 4 most valuable company, will bring a data center to a large parcel in Person County.