We’re dedicated to delivering you impactful, relevant, and positive local news. | Graphic by 6AM City
Hey there. It’s Allie and Cat, the local City Editors you know and love. Allow us to pass the mic to 126 of our coworkers. (Yes, that’s right — an entire team is behind each day’s newsletter, and we couldn’t do it without them.)
We are 6AM City, the parent company of RALtoday. We’re the people on a mission to engage communities by aggregating the most positive, impactful local news and events into a free, daily email newsletter. Maybe you caught the magic word in there — free. We’re proud that our product comes at no cost for subscribers, and we intend to keep it that way.
This week, we’re asking for support
We get hundreds of thank you emails every week, and we couldn’t be more grateful that we impact your lives. Several of you have asked how you can support us. We have a goal to raise $5,000 over the next 10 days, and we’re calling on you to join in.
You may have gotten something out of reading RALtoday, like finding that life-changing concert in our Events section, or using our recommendations on the perfect way to spend the day with grandkids. If that was you, we’re calling on you now to support our mission.
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Fun fact: We’ve turned down more than a million dollars in political ads since we first started — we’re that serious about our brand promise. In election years like 2024, advertisers move their money around, and those fluctuations impact businesses like ours who don’t accept political ad dollars.
This year, your contribution will go incredibly far to support our staff, back an unbiased approach to local and participatory journalism, and keep our product free for the whole community.
“Star Wars: Return of the Jedi” In Concert | Thursday, May 2 | 7:30 a.m. | Meymandi Concert Hall, 2 E. South St., Raleigh | $85-$89 | Enjoy a thrilling performance by the NC Symphony as Luke faces Darth Vader one last time on the big screen.
Friday, May 3
African American History Walking Tour | Friday, May 3 | 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. | Copperline Plant Co., 23 W. Hargett St., Raleigh | $20 | Learn more about how the Black community has shaped Raleigh during this tour of historically Black businesses and areas.
Studio Tours and Shopping | Friday, May 3 | 5-7 p.m. | Designed For Joy, 517 W. Cabarrus St., Raleigh | Free | As part of First Friday, shop and explore the studio providing employment to women in crisis.
Saturday, May 4
Ma & Pa Festival | Saturday, May 4 | 11 a.m.-6 p.m. | Fayetteville Street, Raleigh | Free | This mother’s and father’s day festival by The MAKRS Society will feature 100+ local vendors, a DJ, food trucks + a new lounge section with drinks and fun activities.*
Derby Days | Saturday, May 4 | 4-8 p.m. | AVA Rooftop Bar, 301 Fenton Gateway Dr., Cary | $30 | Watch the Kentucky Derby with hot brown sandwiches and mint juleps all in a derby hat.
Saturday, May 25
UNC Health presents Summerfest with North Carolina Symphony | Saturday, May 25-Saturday, July 13 | 8-10 p.m. | Koka Booth Amphitheatre, 8003 Regency Pkwy., Cary | $26-$56 | Pack your picnic + enjoy an evening under the stars at this musical summer series; kids 12 and under are free.*
The NC Museum of History will soon undergo a major renovation, closing to the public Oct. 7 for a two- to three-year makeover. When complete, visitors can expect a “dramatic new experience” at the museum which has lived on East Edenton Street for 30 years.
Sports
Tickets for Round 2 of the NHL Playoffs are now on sale with Game 3, Game 4, and a potential Game 6 taking place in PNC Arena against the New York Islanders — buy them now.
Closed
Oak City Meatball Shoppe is now closed after 11 years in downtown Raleigh across from Sir Walter Coffee, according to the eatery’s Instagram page. We’re going to miss the freshly rolled meatballs, legen-dairy mac and cheese, and wide bourbon selection.
Theater
Calling all thespians. Theatre Raleigh is hosting auditions for a musical adaptation of “Bull Durham” this Saturday, April 4 — get more info on the auditions and don’t be a lollygagger. The musical is written by the film’s screenwriter Ron Shelton and will open Sept. 12 in Durham.
Set your real estate investment up for long-term success + enjoy concierge-level service every step of the waywith York Properties’ commercial brokerage team. See how their vast network, real data, and customized marketing plans make a difference.*
The NC State Memorial Belltower was completed in 1921 and is lit up red for sports victories. | Photo by RALtoday
Congratulations to the winner of our poetry 2024 contest, Matt R. Matt’s poem is a vivid portrait of the NC State men’s basketball team’s rise to the Final Four and makes us feel like we’re back at the Belltower celebrating again — and our readers agree.
Congrats, Matt, and go Pack.
Winner: “The Last Night of March” by Matt R.
The electricity of the city knows no resistance. “Ready the Band! Play the horne!” “We will meet at the village tower!” A landmark win notched in history. The Duke isn’t invited to this party. This champagne sharing soirée is for Cinderella. We Raleighites state only four can come. Onward, Pack, on your historic run. Raleigh is rooting for you.
A most-loved mother’s day gift so you’re prepared once Sunday, May 12 rolls around. Shop gifts great for mother figures, yourself, or anyone who deserves a little something.
Hopscotch Music Festival announced its venue lineup for the 2024 festival Sept. 5-7, including Lincoln Theatre, Kings, The Pour House, Wicked Witch, and Neptunes. I’m ready to snag a pass — prices increase after the lineup is announced, but based on past performers, I’m willing to take the risk.
* This content is paid advertising, or contains links to our Six & Main marketplace, or affiliate partners which we may receive a commission from. ^ This content is created by our content studio.