Raleigh Convention Center’s Expansion will take the place of the current Red Hat Amphitheater block. | Renderings by RATIO | TVS
The Raleigh Convention and Performing Arts Complex shared a first look at the new 298,100 sqft convention center expansion, and we can’t wait to see this new convention space in action.
The new addition will replace Red Hat Amphitheater, which is moving just a block away, and feature have a sleek, modern exterior with connections to the original convention center, which was built in 2008. Once complete in 2029, the convention center will have a total of 798,100 sqft of event space.
“We’re eager to welcome our community and visitors alike to this expansion of the Raleigh Convention Center,” said Marchell Adams-David, Raleigh City Manager. “This thoughtfully designed space integrates community input while better serving the conventions and gatherings that bring vibrancy to the city. This is truly a first-class venue for our first-class city.”
Nostalgic fall vibes + historic adventures in Chapel Hill
Presented by Visit Chapel Hill
Unplug and spend quality time exploring historic streets. | Photo provided by Visit Chapel Hill
Chapel Hill is brimming with southern charm and history, and it’s only 40 minutes away.
Known for its vibrant arts scene, eclectic dining, and walkable downtown, Chapel Hill makes for a perfect day trip. Here are a few of our Chapel Hill must-dos if you only have 12 hours:
Thomas Dambo’s trolls are ready for you at Dix Park. With the help of local volunteers, the trolls took over 7,000 combined hours to build. Find these five mystical sculptures hidden around the park, and read more about what it took to bring the trolls to life. (The News & Observer)
Open
Super Rad Retro Lounge opens tomorrow in Glenwood South next to The Cupcake Shoppe. With over 20 classic arcade games, pinball machines, and air hockey, this spot is family friendly during the day, then becomes an adult entertainment spot by night.
Read
Raleighite + local lawyer Denise Smith Cline will debut her first book, “The Resettlement of Vesta Blonik,” at Quail Ridge Books on Thursday, Oct. 30 with a reading, Q&A, and signing event. Set in eastern NC and the Dix Hill mental institution, this historical fiction novel is a powerful one.
Eat
Chicken finger fast food spot Zaxbys will open another Raleigh location along Lake Boone Trail next to the City Barbeque. Opening in late 2025 or early 2026, Zaxbys is competing with other new fast food joints like Raising Cane’s and Whataburger. Check out more new + coming soon restaurants. (The News & Observer)
Community
Wake County wants your two cents on its parks master plan that details the goals + vision for the next 10 years of county parks. Talk with staff members in person at local fall fests across the county, attend a virtual meeting on Nov. 13, or fill out an online survey.
Arts
Ready to get crafty? Pullen Arts Center has a wide variety of classes with open seats, including a feline sketching class, a mixed media tutorial, and a class that will teach you to make your own jewelry.
Tech
That “unknown number” isn’t random—it’s someone who bought your data. Scammers use it for phishing, impersonation, and worse. Incogni fights back by wiping your info from the web and keeping it gone. They can’t scam who they can’t find.*
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Editor’s Pick
🎡 Fair fare
We love digging in at the fair. | Photos by RALtoday team
This is your last weekend to grab a bite at the NC State Fair, and our team has been on the hunt for the best fair food — here’s what we love.
Managing Editor Eric recommends the Rice Crispy Dubai Chocolate Mini Pancakes from Hot Chix and a Biscoff funnel cake.
Managing Editor Cat always grabs a cookie bucket, and of course, a giant turkey leg.
Newsletter Editor Allie never skips a Howling Cow chocolate milk, anything from Golden K Dog, like this year’s cinnamon mozzarella dog, and a ham biscuit on the way out.
Asked
Asked
Now it’s your turn: What’s your favorite fair food?
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The fun doesn’t have to end here. After reading the newsletter, head over to our games page. Games refresh with new challenges every day at 6 a.m. from crossword puzzle to Sudoku to themed word search.
One of the Triangle’s best hidden gems is Southeastern Camera, a haven for photography fiends that I first found out about through an INDY Week feature. As a new film photographer, Southeastern has been a great resource, and I love having a knowledgeable camera store nearby.