We can’t wait for The Raleigh Rose Garden to be in bloom. | Photo by RALtoday
We know the question on your mind, Raleighites — when’s it going to get warm again? Thanks to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Climate Prediction Center, we know what temperatures and precipitation trends to expect.
While exact weather conditions typically can’t be predicted more than a week in advance, here’s a seasonal outlook to help you prepare for what spring will bring.
Reminder: The first day of spring is Tuesday, March 19 — thanks, Leap Year.
It may be slightly warmer in Raleigh this spring.
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Screenshot via Climate Prediction Center
Temperature
Think warmer. Raleigh has a 40-50% chance of temps being hotter than usual. Usually, the city averages highs of 62° in March, 72° in April, and 79° in May.
Precipitation
Expect slightly more precipitation. Raleigh has a 40-50% chance of seeing higher than average rainfall amounts this spring.
March
Typically in Raleigh, March’s temperatures fluctuate between an average low of 40° and an average high of 62° — it’s still a little chilly, so don’t put your jackets away just yet. The high is usually ~6° warmer than in February, but we aren’t quite in the clear for snow. Raleigh has seen measurable snow in March + April.
On the sunny side: Look out for daffodils and cherry blossoms in bloom — check out these pink signs of spring in the Village District.
April
You’ll most likely need to keep a light jacket close by in April — the average high and low temps are between 72° + 48°. Expect gentle breezes, mild-cool temps, and overcast about 44% of the time. This month, we’ll get about 13 hours of daylight a day (one more hour than in March) — make the most of the extra sunlight with the most anticipated events in 2024.
May
Historically, average highs in May are 79°, with an average low of 57°. Enjoy these moderate-high while they last, because Raleigh’s temps typically rise ~7° in June. Pro tip: The Raleigh Rose Garden begins to bloom around Mother’s Day, Sunday, May 12.
Asked
The most wonderful time of year to get out and explore the city is…
Cooking for the Kids | Monday, Feb. 26-Thursday, March 14 | Times vary | 1705 East, 1705 E. Millbrook Rd., Raleigh | $100-$150 | This cooking competition features premier chefs competing against each other — there will be six delectable courses to vote on, with proceeds going to Overflowing Hands.
Cake Decorating: Cupcakes | Monday, Feb. 26 | 6:30-8:30 p.m. | Wyntons World Cooking School, 969 N. Harrison Ave., Cary | $70 | Chef Caroline will lead this hands-on class focused on frosting and creating exquisite designs — the class is 13-years-old and up.
Tuesday, Feb. 27
Learn to Speak Dog: Play Styles and Preferences | Tuesday, Feb. 27 | 6:30-7:30 p.m. | Virtual | Free | Hop on this virtual call with dog trainer and Wake County Animal Services employee, Meagan Frost, to learn your dog’s play style.
Craft It: Twine Heart Coasters | Tuesday, Feb. 27 | 10:30-11:30 a.m. | Eva Perry Regional Library, 2100 Shepherd’s Vineyard Dr., Apex | Free | Register to create a pair of fun and functional twine heart coasters — all materials are provided.
Wednesday, Feb. 28
Mountainfilm + Fly Fishing Film Tour | Wednesday, Feb. 28-Thursday, Feb. 29 | Times vary | The Rialto Theatre, 1620 Glenwood Ave., Raleigh | $20-$35 | Great Outdoor Provision Co. and Chair 8 are hosting this two-night film fest featuring films that connect the audience with the great outdoors.
Pocket Strange X Babe Honey | Wednesday, Feb. 28 | 7 p.m. | The Pour House Music Hall, 224 S. Blount St., Raleigh | $12-$15 | Groove to this Asheville-based southern rock and psych-rock indie band.
Wednesday, March 13
Art in Bloom, Presented by PNC | Wednesday, March 13-Sunday, March 17 | Times vary | North Carolina Museum of Art, 2110 Blue Ridge Rd., Raleigh | $40-$50 | Art in Bloom, presented by PNC, is a five-day floral fundraiser in support of the NCMA. From March 13–17, explore stunning floral designs from across the state + nation.*
Last Friday, the North Carolina Theatre declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy, canceling the rest of the 2024 season. The theater, based at the Martin Marietta Performing Arts Center, made a statement on Facebook, “we will continue educating our students through The North Carolina Theatre Conservatory during this time.” (The News & Observer)
Community
Join the Downtown Raleigh Alliance at Moore Square this Friday, March 1 for a Feminist First Friday. Celebrate the first day of Women’s History Month with a vendor market, food + drinks from The Hippo Wine Bar, Golden K Dog, and The Kupkake Fairy, plus an interactive public art display.
Arts
The NCMA is gearing up to open its newest exhibit, “To Take Shape and Meaning,” this Saturday, March 2. Museum-goers will get to view works by 75 Indigenous artists from over 50 tribes, including eight from NC. The exhibit is free for members to visit, and $20 per nonmember adult.
Cause
The RALtoday team is so excited for our Earth Day Extravaganza with The Great Raleigh Cleanup at Moore Square on Sunday, April 21. But we need your help — we are seeking volunteers to join the fun run and yoga flow, market setup + breakdown, and movie setup. Sign up to participate in this green day.
Plan Ahead
Speaking of green... the Raleigh St. Patrick’s Day Parade is scheduled for Saturday, March 16 and will forgo motorized vehicles. Parade participants have until this Friday, March 1 to sign up and secure a spot.
Eat
Looking for a fun date night or night out with friends? The Parlor at Heights House announced March’s Supper Club theme: Sardinia, Italy. Grandchamp Hospitality will plate up four Italian-inspired courses, with specialty wine pairings. Tickets for this intimate dinner are $165 per ticket.
Biz
Sometimes, you need the right space to get your team in the right headspace. Enter Graylyn Estate and Conference Center, a historic estate on 55 sprawling acres that offers flexible meeting spaces, team-building activities, + a whole lot more. Unlock inspiration.*
Seasonal
🐦 Birdin’ ain’t easy
Help feed the birds in Raleigh
Help feed Raleigh’s birds. | Photo by RALtoday
Our local skies house everything from goldfinches to bluebirds. So how can you invite them to your garden?
Feed them, of course. Late winter to early spring is a crucial time for putting out bird feeders, as natural food sources may be depleted. Let’s fly through some need-to-knows to keep you popular with the local birds.
Seed feeders are the most versatile. Black-oil sunflower seeds appeal to the greatest number of birds, according to the Audubon Guide to Bird Feeding. They’ve also got homemade recipes that everyone will be chirping about.
Suet (or beef fat) is a high-energy treat for bug eaters, and you can make a DIY feeder from an onion bag. Be warned: Warmer weather turns suet cakes rancid, which keeps birds away.
Nectar feeders give hummingbirds and orioles a sweet treat. Opt for a low-capacity feeder to make sure you’re cleaning it regularly.
Click the link below for the perfect setup and maintenance tips.
Over the weekend, I met up with a few friends for brunch at Madre in Smoky Hollow. The decor is stunning and the new brunch menu had us wanting more. I’m still drooling over the chicken + donut (from Tepuy Donuts) and smash patty burger.
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