Shop unique treasures at this local gem. | Photo by RALtoday
Raleigh is a prime location for local shopping, especially during the holidays. The busy city has locally owned shops ranging from literature to specialty products for every shopper.
For the book-lovers
If you’re in the mood for a great read and a cozy drink, head to Blackbird Books & Coffee, a welcoming, sisters-in-law-owned spot where you can snag your next literary obsession and sip on a carefully crafted beverage. For more bookish treasures, don’t miss So & So Books, an independent book retailer packed with some of literature’s finest picks — perfect for finding your next favorite story.
It’s always about the fashion
Whether you’re updating your wardrobe or hunting for a one-of-a-kind piece, these local gems have something for every style.
Holiday Ornaments Paint Pour | 6:30-8:30 p.m. | Joy Worthy Co. | $59 | Design ornaments to enjoy for years to come.
Line Dancing Boot Camp | 7-8 p.m. | PBR Cary, Cary | $10 | Throw on your boots and prepare to learn how to properly throw down — the line dancing way.
Saturday, Feb. 8
FairyTale Tea | Saturday, Feb. 8-Sunday, Feb. 9 | Times vary | Marbles Kids Museum | $27+ | Dress in your storybook best and enjoy magical activities, majestic treats, and enchanting encounters with fanciful characters.*
AVA Wonderland at AVA Rooftop Bar Cary is the ultimate holiday experience. | Photos via AVA Wonderland at AVA Rooftop Bar Cary
The immersive experience AVA Wonderland is now open at AVA Rooftop Bar Cary —ft. twinkling lights, festive cocktails, photo ops, and private igloos; plus daily Elf on the Shelf giveaways, holiday music bingo, and tabletop s’mores.
Enjoy themed pop-up events like the Silent Night Disco (Nov. 22), Holiday Cocktail Making Class (Nov. 26), and Ornament Decorating (Dec. 17.)
ICYMI, the iconic cylindrical Holiday Inn on Hillsborough Street may not be demolished as planned. Developer Tidal Real Estate Partners is said to be considering a renovation instead of building a new Kimpton hotel. The hotel is taking reservations only through Feb. 28, and no demolition plans have been confirmed. (Triangle Business Journal)
Opening
Uptown Pho will celebrate its grand opening tomorrow, Nov. 20. Building on the success of Midtown Pho, the new restaurant offers Vietnamese dishes like banh mi, vermicelli, and the family’s beloved secret pho recipe.
Coming Soon
Award-winning pitmaster Christopher Prieto announced Prime STQ, a new barbecue-meets-steakhouse concept, opening in spring 2025 at Horseshoe at Hub RTP. The 8,000 sqft restaurant will blend Prieto’s Texas-style barbecue with steakhouse dining, featuring elevated entrees, and a focus on business-and family-friendly service.
Closed
Otomi Comida y Cocteles, which opened in July by Lee Robinson and Juan Carlos Lugo, closed yesterday. The restaurant, known for its tacos + cocktails, took over the space after Brookside Bodega shut its doors. Otomi owners hinted at a potential future return via social media. (Triangle Business Journal)
Plan Ahead
North Hills is gearing up for its annual tree lighting event this Saturday, Nov. 23, from 4-7 p.m. Expect performances by Craig Woolard & The Embers, Mary Selvidge, Poiema Artistry, Sanderson High School Band, and Chordination A Cappella, with WRAL hosts Debra Morgan and Mike Maze covering the event.
Biz
Small Business Saturday, a day dedicated to highlighting + supporting locally owned small businesses, is on Nov. 30. Let us know your favorite small businesses in Oak City for a chance to be featured in an upcoming newsletter.
Seasonal
Pro tip: When it comes to gifts that people actually want, stress-melting massages are always near the top of the list.*
Open
New store alert: MINISO has arrived at Crabtree. The global retailer is known for its colorful toys, playful plushies + fun collaborations with Disney, Minions, and other brands we all love. Explore the new store.*
This the last call to secure your spot in our 2024 Holiday Gift Guide. Get your giftable product or service in front of 62,000+ potential shoppers before the season ends.*
Seasonal
Try This
🎻 Not your typical date night
This was such an immersive and intimate experience. | Photo by RALtoday
If you’re looking for a reason to get dressed up for a date night that involves music and a romantic ambiance in Raleigh, then Candlelight Concerts are sure to hit all the right notes.
Know before you go
To make the most of your experience, arrive on time, or preferably early, since there are no late entries allowed. Pro tip: Arrive at least 30 minutes early. If you’re interested in taking photos with a designated candlelit background, be sure to reserve your spot in advance by purchasing this option, which typically costs around $10.
Once inside, grab a seat as close to the front as possible. Seating is not assigned, but organized by sections — being further back may hinder your view. The performance lasts one hour and will not have intermissions, so don’t miss any of the show.
This 3-in-1 portable charger. Ditch your knot of clunky charging cords for Anker’s ultra-compact charger that includes a built-in USB-C cord, power bank, and foldable charger.
I finally made it to try Mr. A’s Beignets after years of missing them, and they did not disappoint. I visited the food truck in Apex around 9 a.m., which must’ve been a good time because there wasn’t a line.
