🌐 Try food trends in Raleigh | The New York Times put together a list of nine food trends for 2025 including sauces, coffee, and grab-and-go options. Here’s where you can try these food trends in Oak City.
🍗 Raising Cane’s first Raleigh location | No opening date is set for Raising Cane’s, but the famed chicken tender restaurant will get its first Raleigh outpost on Hillsborough Street.
🐦 Participate in the Global Bird Count | This global event spans across four days, and we’re laying out all you need to get in on the fun from your backyard.
Love Stories & Broken Hearts Walking Tour | 2-3:15 p.m. | Starts at Governor’s Mansion | Pay what you want | This lovely tour follows local love stories that end in heartbreak or happily ever after — registration is required.
North Carolina Women’s Basketball vs NC State | 2-4 p.m. | Carmichael Arena | $125 | This annual game honors late NC State women’s basketball coach Kay Yow and raises money for breast cancer.
Monday, Feb. 17
Macarons Making Workshop | 1-3 p.m. | Home for Entertaining, Cary | $99 | Learn the art of making French macarons from pastry chef Amanda — flavors include white chocolate champagne ganache, red velvet, and chocolate strawberry fillings.
Stargazing | 6:30-9 p.m. | The Willard Rooftop | Free to attend | Take stargazing to new levels with the Raleigh Astronomy Club + creative cocktails inspired by the stars.
Brownie Batter Dream is a first-of-its-kind nighttime blend for better sleep, now available hemp-free. | Photo by Beam Organics
Say you can’t sleep? Baby, I know... that’s that anxiety. (Or high cortisol, or existential dread...)
Luckily Beam Dream’s best-selling Brownie Batter hot cocoa packed with five powerful ingredients for deep rest improves sleep for 93% of users, helping you fall asleep faster + stay asleep longer. (Plus, zero added sugar + only 15 calories.)
$188.81. That’s the average amount Americans are expected to spend on Valentine’s Day this year. However you’re celebrating, we want to make it worth it with these local gift ideas. (NRF)
Fun Fact
Planning a wedding? You’re in luck — Taco Bell recently launched a $777 Vegas-themed wedding package featuring all the bells and whistles, like an Elvis impersonator and a Taco Bell hot sauce bouquet. For those who don’t see the vision, we’ve got a guide to local venues. (People)
Drink
The results are in. We asked if you preferred Pepsi or Coca-Cola and 79% said Coke. That’s a little higher than the findings from the University of South Carolina, where 61% of participants preferred Coca-Cola.
Number
$200+. That’s how much a one-day adult pass to Disneyland costs now. Consider spending that money closer to home with these kid-friendly activities around Charleston. (The Wall Street Journal)
Ranked
North Carolina was recently ranked the No. 13 best state for a fresh start by realty group View Homes. The ranking looked at factors like crime rates, quality of life, and social connectivity. If you’re making a fresh start in Oak City, check out our Raleigh 101 guide.
Travel
Experience the charm of Louisville with Breeze Airways’ nonstop flights from RDU. Immerse yourself in world-famous bourbon, thrilling horse racing, and a vibrant food scene — there’s something for everyone. Fly affordably and comfortably with Breeze’s seriously nice service. Book your trip.*
City Guide
City Guide
🧳 Pack your bags
Cozy up in this vibrant + bright living room steps from downtown. | Photo via Airbnb
Whether you’re looking to visit Raleigh in style for the weekend or are a local in need of an unforgettable staycation, we’ve compiled a list featuring 15 extraordinary rentals in Oak City.
Located a street over from the action on Glenwood Avenue, bring a pop of bright color into your life with this modern apartment that’s a short walking distance from Raleigh Beer Garden, MoJoe’s Burger Joint, and much more.
~$130 a night
1 BD | 1 BR
Downtown cityscape view, on-site parking, washer + dryer in unit
OK history buffs, this one’s for you. Though this historic home has been updated with modern amenities, this 1909 home still holds its original charm with features like the original clawfoot tub + shower.
~$220 a night
2 BD | 2 BR
Historic restoration, screened patio, washer + dryer in unit
A zero waste lotion bar that’s perfect for on-the-go use. It’s formulated with non-toxic ingredients that soothe dry skin and provide long-lasting hydration.