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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.

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