Artists like Tori Amos, Melissa Etheridge, and Devo have all performed at the venue. | Photo provided by Bill Peebles
The votes are in for the RALtoday historical markers contest. Check out the finalists below, including the contest winner decided by your votes.
Winner: The Rialto
Since 1942, The Rialto has stood in Five Points as a popular spot for movies, live music, and “Rocky Horror Picture Show.” After a stint of uncertainty, the Rialto is under new management and better than ever with a slate of holiday movies, comedy shows, and live music and a swanky blue paint job. The Rialto won our contest with 47% of the vote.
Finalist: Jesse Jones’ Oakwood Halloween House
Scary decorations spill out into the street to strike horror into the hearts of passerbys. Bigger and more horrifying as the years go by. No wonder the neighbor across the street keeps her blinds closed and leaves for the beach.
Finalist: Players Retreat
This legendary NC State watering hole has been around in some form or fashion since 1951, and while its passed through many hands, Players Retreat is still beloved for its casual food, wide beer selection, and always fun atmosphere. Come here on a Wolfpack gameday for unrivaled fandom or at lunch to mingle with all of Raleigh. This is one of Raleigh’s oldest bars + eateries, but the vibe is as fresh as ever.
“Cinderella” | Through Sunday, Dec. 22 | Raleigh Little Theater | $30 | Celebrate 40 years of this classic rendition at this community theater.
THE RINK | Through Monday, Jan. 20 | Times vary | Red Hat Amphitheater | $15 | Lace up your skates, grab some hot cocoa, and hit the ice at this unique rink.
Saturday, Dec. 21
Spirit-alternative tasting for the mindful drinker | 11 a.m.-1 p.m. | Self Care Marketplace | Free | Taste zero-proof bevs with Umbrella Dry Bar — and get complimentary gift wrapping when you make a purchase.
Living Holiday Ornament Workshop | 6-7 p.m. | Urban Pothos Houseplant Shop | $36 | Cultivate your own ornament with an air plant for your tree.
The Bend Bar on West Morgan Street opens tomorrow, Dec. 21 offering local beers, wine, and cocktails with plenty of seating outside, and it’s the first of three reclaimed bungalows-turned-businesses from Trophy Brewing. Next door, State of Beer’s new location will open in early 2025, and the third concept is still under development.
Sports
The home of the NC Courage and NCFC will have a new name. First Horizon Bank has purchased the naming rights to the stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park — which will retain its name. First Horizon Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park seats 10,000 fans and recently hosted the NCAA Division I Men’s and Women’s Soccer Championships. (Triangle Business Journal)
Ranked
Raleigh took bronze in a recent poll of 1,000 Americans as the No. 3 best city in the US. Oak City took fourth place for most underrated and sixth for friendliest residents — and we have to agree.(Clever)
Seasonal
Once you’re done with your Christmas tree, donate it to Wake County to be used at county parks. The county has eight drop-off locations accepting trees from Dec. 26 to Jan. 26. Last winter, Wake County residents dropped off 4,400 trees which made 95 tons of mulch for area parks.
Job
Calling all creatives: Bring your writing passion + ad agency experience to 6AM City as a Branded Copywriter. Work remotely, craft impactful campaigns for clients, and collaborate with a passionate team shaping new local media. Flexible work-life balance and creative opportunities await.Apply now.
Giveaway
There’s still time to enter our $1,000 Gift Card Giveaway in partnership with Wake Forest’s brand-new apartment community, Hawthorne at Traditions, which includes 11 gift cards to local hotspots. Enter on Instagram before Friday, Dec. 20 at noon for a chance to win.*
Seasonal
We’ve all been there — you need a last-minute present, but it’s way too late to order online. That’s why Crabtree extended its holiday shopping hours through Christmas Eve. They’ll even wrap your gift for you.*
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The holidays are here — and with them come extra expenses. Regain control of seasonal credit card debt with a 0% intro APR credit card. Experts scoped out this top option that offers a long interest-free period and earns up to 20,000 miles after spending $500 in the first three months.*
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🎁 Don’t miss these last-minute gift picks
Including a cute necklace and a Kindle remote page turner. | Graphic by 6AM city
Need a last-minute holiday gift that will ship quickly? Shop five great gifts available with Prime two-day shipping.
Layering initial necklace | $15.99 | Ship it fast, but make it feel personal with this 14K gold necklace displaying their first name initial.
Magnetic portable power bank charger | $37.99 | Perfect for the friend whose phone is always dying, this portable charger offers on-the-go power.
Candle warmer lamp + Thymes Fraiser Fir Candle | $39.99 + $36.00 | Make a candle extra special by pairing it with a warmer lamp that will make it last longer with flame-free heat.
Tomorrow is the shortest day of the year with just 9 hours and 44 minutes of daylight in Raleigh, and I’m so excited for the days to get longer again — no more finishing up newsletters in the dark.
This is one of our last newsletters of the year, and I just want to express how much fun this last year has been. I hope you and your families have a very happy holiday season, and see you in 2025!
