Ready to turn your weekend up a notch? Raleigh (and its nearby neighbors) are throwing down with a stacked lineup of big ticket events that promise to entertain, move, and maybe even make you laugh-cry. From world-class symphonies to throwback R&B, Broadway dance parties to sharp-tongued comedians, there’s no excuse to be bored this weekend.

Here’s your breakdown of the must-see, don’t-miss events coming to town April 11–13.

FRIDAY, APRIL 11 — Start Strong

North Carolina Symphony: Carlos Miguel Prieto – Elgar’s Enigma Variations

8:00 PM – Meymandi Concert Hall (Downtown Raleigh)

A sweeping, emotional ride through Elgar’s iconic piece, conducted by the electric Carlos Miguel Prieto. If you want a night that’s classy but stirring, this is your ticket.

Franco Escamilla – Stand-Up in Spanish

8:30 PM – Raleigh Memorial Auditorium

Internationally renowned and wildly witty, Franco Escamilla brings his signature blend of sarcasm, music, and storytelling to Raleigh. Spanish-speaking comedy fans, this one’s for you.

Tim Meadows (Yes, that Tim Meadows)

9:15 PM – Goodnights Comedy Club, Raleigh

SNL legend, “Ladies Man,” and all-around master of deadpan humor—Tim Meadows headlines an intimate set at Goodnights. Early shows sold fast, so grab what’s left if you can.

Broadway Rave

9:00 PM – Motorco Music Hall, Durham

Calling all theater kids and musical-loving adults: this dance party is your chance to belt out “Defying Gravity” with a room full of fellow fans.

Joe Marcinek’s Dead Funk Summit

8:00 PM – The Rialto Theater, Raleigh

If you like your music jammy, funky, and full of unexpected collabs, this high-energy tribute to Grateful Dead grooves and New Orleans funk is your sweet spot.

Also Friday Night:

Maddox Batson @ The Lincoln Theatre The Wellermen @ Cat’s Cradle Back Room (Carrboro) Tan and Sober Gentlemen @ Cat’s Cradle (Carrboro) Reed Brake Live @ Slim’s Downtown Raleigh (9–11PM)

SATURDAY, APRIL 12 — Your Main Event Night

Nikki Glaser: Alive and Unwell Tour

7:00 & 9:30 PM – Raleigh Memorial Auditorium

Raunchy, raw, and hilariously self-aware, Nikki Glaser brings her viral stand-up to Raleigh. Expect brutal honesty about relationships, anxiety, and why she shouldn’t be left alone with her thoughts. (In other words: relatable.)

Scythian (Folk Rock with Fire)

7:30 PM – Fletcher Opera Theater

Get ready to stomp your feet. This genre-defying band blends Celtic, Americana, and Eastern European roots into one epic folk fusion experience.

North Carolina Symphony: Carlos Miguel Prieto – Encore Night

8:00 PM – Meymandi Concert Hall

Missed it Friday? You’ve got a second chance to catch this moving performance.

Sidewinder (Alt-Rock)

8:00 PM – The Lincoln Theatre

For those chasing guitars and gritty vocals, Sidewinder brings high-octane energy and killer stage presence.

Penny and Sparrow (Heartfelt Harmonics)

8:00 PM – The Ritz, Raleigh

Stripped down, soulful, and emotionally rich. If you’re in your feels, this duo will take you deeper (in a good way).

The War and Treaty

8:00 PM – Cat’s Cradle, Carrboro

Soul, gospel, Americana—whatever you call it, it’s powerful and honest. This powerhouse husband-wife duo always brings the house down.

More Saturday Hits:

Tim Meadows returns to Goodnights (7:00 & 9:15 PM) First to Eleven @ Local 506, Chapel Hill Husbands @ Cat’s Cradle Back Room, Carrboro

SUNDAY, APRIL 13 — Smooth Landing

Ty Segall (Indie Rock King)

8:00 PM – The Lincoln Theatre

For fans of fuzzed-out guitars, gritty vocals, and underground cool. Ty Segall is a must-see.

Nikki Glaser – Two Final Shows

4:00 & 7:00 PM – Raleigh Memorial Auditorium

Can’t get enough? Glaser wraps her Raleigh weekend with back-to-back Sunday performances.

North Carolina Symphony – Final Performance

3:00 PM – Memorial Hall, Chapel Hill

Catch the Symphony one last time in a beautiful Chapel Hill setting.

Jagged Edge (R&B Legends)

8:00 PM – Meymandi Concert Hall

“Let’s Get Married,” anyone? If you’re ready for a hit of ‘90s/early 2000s nostalgia, this iconic group’s smooth vocals will take you there.

And for comedy fans:

Chris Munch @ Goodnights (4:30 PM) Tim Meadows final Raleigh set @ 7:00 PM

Big Weekend. Big Energy. Big Fun.

Whether you’re a theater nerd, comedy fiend, symphony lover, or live music chaser, this weekend is bursting at the seams with choices. Pick one event or stack your schedule—either way, you’re in for a ride.

Follow @DoRaleigh to keep your calendar full and your weekends legendary.