If you’re looking to soak up some Raleigh summer vibes this weekend, downtown is the place to be. From al fresco cocktails and burgers on a Thursday night to orchestras and brass bands by Friday, there’s a little something for everyone in the heart of the city. Whether you’re a foodie, a science lover, a music fan, or just need an excuse to get out of the house — we’ve got your Downtown Raleigh Event Guide locked in.

Thursday, July 10: Sip, Sing & Science

Al Fresco Cocktails with End of Days Distillery

5:00 – 8:00 p.m.

Mulino Italian Kitchen & Bar

Kick off your evening under the open sky with signature cocktails and summer air. This weekly collab with Wilmington’s End of Days Distillery brings creative spirits (literally) to Mulino’s breezy courtyard.

Blue Whales Lecture Series

7:00 p.m.

NC Museum of Natural Sciences Store & Nature Art Gallery

Ever wondered how blue whales became the largest animals on Earth? Join this fascinating lecture and dive into marine science with local experts. Perfect for curious minds of all ages.

Burger Night Thursdays at Le Dive

Le Dive

No official time — just show up hungry. Le Dive’s Burger Night features chef-stacked patties, crisp fries, and the laid-back downtown energy you crave midweek.

Zenith Karaoke

9:00 p.m.

Zenith Raleigh

You’ve had your cocktails, now it’s time to grab the mic. Whether you’re belting ballads or bringing the boy band heat, Zenith Downtown is your Thursday night stage.

Friday, July 11: Music, History & Feel-Good Vibes

Feel Good Fridays at The Mecca

7:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

The Mecca Restaurant

Start your Friday with classic comfort food and a whole lot of downtown charm. This weekly event is about good eats, friendly faces, and feel-good energy before the weekend hits full swing.

Jeezy’s TM101 20-Year Anniversary Orchestra Tour

Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts

Hip-hop meets orchestral power in this one-of-a-kind anniversary performance. If TM101 was the soundtrack of your youth, this is your nostalgic, live-music must-see.

C. Albert Blomquist Band at Wolfe & Porter

8:00 – 10:30 p.m.

Wolfe & Porter

Soulful melodies and smooth vibes in one of downtown’s most intimate settings. Ideal for a relaxed Friday with great drinks and even better tunes.

Ctrl-Alt Delete Brass Band

9:00 – 11:00 p.m.

Slim’s Downtown

Get ready for high-energy brass beats, dancing in the aisles, and an atmosphere you won’t forget. These guys bring the funk — and then some.

Historian-Guided Tour of Downtown Raleigh

3:00 p.m.

Starts at Jimmy V’s Osteria + Bar

Get to know the city you love with a guided stroll through Raleigh’s downtown past. From historic buildings to untold stories, this tour is both educational and entertaining.

Downtown Raleigh True Crime Tour

8:00 p.m.

Moore Square

Ready to walk the darker side of Raleigh? This after-hours walking tour dives into the city’s real-life mysteries, misdeeds, and macabre tales. Great for true crime fans and curious locals alike.

Stay In The Loop

Want more events, city guides, and local highlights?

Head over to DoRaleigh.com — your go-to source for everything happening in Downtown Raleigh and beyond.

Plan smart. Play hard. And we’ll see you downtown.