Spring is just around the corner, and there’s plenty happening in Raleigh! From new businesses and housing developments to fun events and major city updates, here’s everything you need to know this week.

Healthy Eating Alert: Stock Up on Broccoli!

A recent scientific review confirms what many health experts have long believed—broccoli is one of the healthiest vegetables you can eat. With farmers market season approaching, now is the perfect time to load up on this nutrient-packed veggie.

Raleigh Ranks No. 9 for Build-to-Rent Homes

According to a recent Point2Homes report, Raleigh currently has 2,934 single-family build-to-rent homes under construction, placing the city at No. 9 among metros with the most units in the pipeline.

Simon Says Dip This Opens Second Location

Dessert lovers, rejoice! Simon Says Dip This is now open in the Bloc [83] development near YogaSix. Stop by and treat yourself to one of 24 Belgian chocolate dips—because there’s always room for dessert!

The Architect Bar & Social House Closes After 13 Years

After more than a decade of unforgettable nights, The Architect Bar & Social House on East Hargett Street has closed its doors. But don’t worry—another iconic concept is set to take its place soon.

Affordable Housing Project Gets a Green Light

Raleigh City Council has approved $448,733 in federal funds to restart a long-delayed affordable housing project at East College Park. The project, which was paused due to COVID-19 and rising costs, will add six new townhomes—four of which will be available to low- and moderate-income families.

Magical Drone Show: “The Wizard of Oz” in the Sky

Experience The Wizard of Oz like never before with a drone light show at Coastal Credit Union Music Park on Saturday, May 3. Tickets go on sale Monday, March 10, at 10 a.m.

Big Changes Coming to Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts

Major exterior upgrades are on the way, including accessible ramps, a seating wall, and a greenspace. The redesign begins in April and is expected to wrap up by December 2025.

Triangle Highway Projects Delayed

Several major highway projects, including the Capital Boulevard expansion, have been delayed due to rising construction costs. The Capital Boulevard project is now expected to be completed in 2031, a decade later than planned.

Smoky Hollow Apartments Sold for $152 Million

Kane Realty has sold the Smoky Hollow apartments in downtown Raleigh for $152 million to Atlanta-based Cortland and partners. The luxury property, now rebranded as Cortland Glenwood South, includes apartments, a Publix, and a parking deck.

Escazu Chocolates Expands to Gateway Plaza

Great news for chocolate lovers! Escazu Chocolates is moving into Gateway Plaza, joining other favorites like Fiction Kitchen and Union Special. The chocolatier sources its beans from Latin America and has been a staple near Mordecai Historic Park.

Two Roosters Ice Cream Now at NC Courage & NCFC Games

Soccer season just got sweeter! Two Roosters will be serving up signature flavors at WakeMed Soccer Park, including a new team-inspired flavor, Roary Tracks, made with golden Oreos, golden fudge sauce, and red & blue M&Ms.

No “Lizard Lick” Elementary School

Despite strong community support, Wake County’s newest elementary school in Wendell will not be named Lizard Lick Elementary due to potential negative associations with the reality TV show Lizard Lick Towing.

Help Shape the Future of Downtown Raleigh

Want to make a difference? Downtown Raleigh Alliance is seeking input for its annual survey. It only takes a few minutes, so share your thoughts and help guide the future of downtown.

What’s Next for the Former DMV on New Bern Avenue?

The old DMV building on New Bern Avenue has big potential. Residents surveyed prioritized affordable housing, but other ideas include a grocery store or entertainment venue. Stay tuned for updates as plans unfold!

Raleigh’s Most Dangerous Intersections Revealed

NCDOT has named 21 Raleigh intersections among the most dangerous in the state. The most hazardous? Buffaloe Road at New Hope Road in northeast Raleigh. Drive safe!

Magnet School Enrollment Still Open

Good news for parents—there’s still time to enroll your child in a public magnet school! Round 2 applications are open until Friday, March 14.

Catch Grammy-Winner Tim O’Brien Live

Folk music fans, don’t miss two-time Grammy Award winner Tim O’Brien live on Friday, March 7 for an evening of folk favorites with mandolin player Jan Fabricius.

$3.5 Million Renovation for Raleigh Golf Association

McConnell Golf is investing $3.5 million to upgrade Raleigh’s oldest public course. The project includes a new 60-bay driving range with lighting and potential rezoning for residential development.

New Restaurant: Soul Flavorscape of India

A fresh taste of North India is coming to Glenwood South! Soul Flavorscape of India opens on Saturday, March 8, in the former Thaiphoon Bistro space. Expect authentic curries, biryanis, tandoori dishes, and crafted cocktails.

Tifa Chocolate & Gelato Coming to North Hills

A new dessert spot, Tifa Chocolate & Gelato, is opening soon at North Hills, near Yard House. Expect handcrafted gelato, artisan chocolates, pastries, and hot chocolate.

StreetFair Expands to Raleigh

Charlotte-based startup StreetFair is bringing its home services marketplace to Raleigh, making it easier for homeowners to find and vet service providers. More expansion across the city is expected by March 2025.

Red Clay Strays Bringing Their Tour to Raleigh

Rock band Red Clay Strays will bring their Get Right tour to Red Hat Amphitheater on August 16. Tickets are on sale now!

Stay in the Know

For more updates, follow DoRaleigh.com—because sometimes, the best news isn’t in the headlines.