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🧺 Picnic perfect
A Southern Picnics set up is charming with just the right vibe. | Photo by RALtoday
Now that it’s warming up in the 919, we’re looking to spend more time outside with our loved ones.If you’re planning a picnic in one of our picturesque parks, please peruse no further. We put together a list of items to help you pack the perfect local picnic.
Ambiance | Southern Picnics
This luxury picnic service does all the heavy lifting for you with seasonal decor, floral arrangements, and an event planner to make sure everything goes smoothly. Plus, they offer special services for proposals.
Charcuterie | Raleigh Cheesy
Order a board for two to 20 people made with high quality meats, cheeses, and delicious accouterments. Prefer something handheld? Grab sandwiches from their store on Medlin Drive.
Cheese | Wedgewood Cheese Bar OK, how about more cheese? This store’s selection of artisan + farmstead cheeses are cut to order by cheese experts.
Snacks | 1in6 Snacks
This brand raises awareness for food insecurity and is behind local chips like Carolina Kettle and Pine State popcorn.
Marbles is throwing a Family Field Day on Saturday, May 2, and you’re invited. Expect a kid’s try-athalon, food trucks, field games, and more. The field day is free, but you can buy museum tickets in advance to continue the fun for $9.50.
Transit
A new transit hub at RTP has secured $2 million and will expand GoTriangle’s reach across the 919. The Triangle Mobility Hub will link bus service, micro-transit, the Triangle Bikeway, and more modes of transportation in the Triangle. (WRAL)
Plan Ahead
Don’t forget. The world’s only pimento cheese festival is this weekend at Downtown Cary Park, and not to be cheesy, but you won’t want to miss it. We’ve got plenty more can’t-miss events happening this month in our handy Plan Ahead guide.
Sports
Watch the Masters with other locals — and with Augusta-inspired bites — at Gussie’s all weekend. We can’t wait for the frozen Azaleas.
Outdoors
Copperhead season is nearly here — read tips on what to do when faced with these common venomous snakes. (The News & Observer)
Try This
Looking for a spot to soak up the sun (or laze in the shade)? This tool allows users to find cafes in the sun or in the shade at different times of day — simply type in an address and look around. We think it’s the perfect companion to our outdoor dining guide.
Pro Tip
Never hit the hiking trail without the essentials. This functional waist pack features a built-in bottle holder, large main compartment, and multiple zipper pockets to keep water, snacks, and safety gear organized and within reach. Bonus: it’s under $25.*
Learn
When money gets tight and prices keep climbing, cutting back can feel overwhelming. The good news? You don’t have to do everything at once. Start with this list of money-saving strategies and pick one or two to begin. Even small changes can make a meaningful difference.*
The Buy
Self-care isn’t all spa days and forest bathing — although we do love a nice hot stone massage. More often than not, it’s the simple things like prioritizing rest, practicing good hygiene, and practicing mindfulness. Elevate your self-care rituals with these five products:
🧤 Treat your skin to a little TLC with this best-selling exfoliating glove that removes dead skin + cleans pores.
🛏️ Look forward to snuggling into bed every night thanks to these luxury bamboo sheets with cooling properties.
🫖 Pair your new sheets with this herbalist-formulated chamomile tea to help wind down before bed.
🚿 Turn your shower into an aromatherapy escape with this top-rated pack of shower steamers.
🧦 When you’re craving comfort + relaxation, don this heated blanket hoodie.
Happy Friday, Raleigh. I finally checked out The Newsagent’s on Fayetteville Street last weekend, and I couldn’t believe how many books they have. Pay them a visit next time you’re downtown.