Your DoRaleigh.com Guide to the City After Dark

Downtown Raleigh is buzzing this Friday, June 13, with a vibrant lineup of culture, comedy, music, food, and film. Whether you’re starting early with brunch, catching a thought-provoking lecture, or staying out late with live music and stand-up, this guide will help you plan your perfect Friday in the heart of the city.

🎓 7:00 PM – “After Emancipation” at the City of Raleigh Museum

Explore the enduring legacy of Black education in North Carolina. This free community talk titled “After Emancipation: North Carolina Education, Past, Present, and Future” takes place at the City of Raleigh Museum and is part of the city’s Juneteenth celebration. It’s a powerful, one-hour event that invites dialogue and reflection in a historic downtown setting.

🎭 7:30 PM – Ride the Cyclone at Burning Coal Theatre

If you’re in the mood for something bold and theatrical, catch Burning Coal Theatre Company’s production of WAIT TIL YOU SEE THIS: Ride The Cyclone. This darkly comedic musical about six teenagers trapped in a limbo-like roller coaster ride is quirky, heartfelt, and completely unforgettable.

📍 Burning Coal Theatre Company

🕢 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM

🍳 7:30 AM – 2:00 PM – Feel Good Fridays at The Mecca

Start your day early with Feel Good Fridays at The Mecca—a Raleigh tradition since 1930. Great breakfast, brunch vibes, and an old-school downtown feel. It’s casual, classic, and full of character.

📍 The Mecca Restaurant

🕢 7:30 AM – 2:00 PM

🎥 5:30 PM – 10:00 PM – Museum Movie Night: Shrek

Family-friendly fun meets downtown magic at the NC Museum of Natural Sciences Store and Nature Art Gallery, where the beloved green ogre takes the screen. Enjoy Museum Movie Night: Shrek with snacks, themed activities, and a cozy community feel.

😂 9:00 PM – 11:00 PM – Late Night Stand-Up at Longleaf Hotel

Looking for laughs under the city lights? Head over to Longleaf Hotel for a night of sharp stand-up comedy. Late Night at Longleaf never disappoints, offering a relaxed open-air vibe with fresh local talent and cocktails.

🎶 9:00 PM – 11:00 PM – Rae the Band at Slim’s Downtown

Raleigh’s own Rae the Band will be rocking Slim’s Downtown with high-energy live music. Doors open at 4:30 PM if you want to grab a drink early, but the real show kicks off at 9 PM.

🌆 Downtown Raleigh Has Your Friday Covered

From sunrise pancakes at The Mecca to late-night guitar riffs at Slim’s, Downtown Raleigh’s got something for everyone this Friday, June 13. Whether you’re here for the history, the food, the laughs, or the music, you’ll find your Friday groove downtown.

👉 For more local picks and events all weekend long, head to DoRaleigh.com.

See you in the city!