Raleigh Non-Partisan Candidates Forum Recap: Community Dialogue at Shaw University

Estimated Read Time: 3–4 minutes

Raleigh Residents Engage Candidates at Civic Forum

Community members gathered at Shaw University on February 7, 2026 for PowerUp NC’s the Raleigh Non-Partisan Candidates’ Forum, an event designed to connect voters directly with mayoral, at-large, and district candidates ahead of upcoming local elections. The forum provided an open setting for questions, discussion, and civic engagement focused on Raleigh’s future. 

Free admission and a welcoming environment helped encourage broad participation from residents interested in learning more about city leadership priorities and policy discussions.

Key Highlights From the Forum

Direct Candidate Engagement

Attendees had opportunities to hear candidate perspectives firsthand and ask questions about pressing local issues affecting Raleigh neighborhoods, business growth, infrastructure, and community development. The forum emphasized respectful dialogue and informed decision-making. 

Structured Candidate Sessions

The event featured dedicated sessions for different races:

Mayoral & At-Large Candidates: Morning session District Representative Candidates: Afternoon session

This structure allowed focused discussion around specific leadership roles and policy priorities.

Civic Education & Community Connection

Events like this help residents better understand how local government decisions impact everyday life — from housing and transportation to economic development and public safety.

Why Civic Forums Matter in Raleigh

Local candidate forums continue to play an important role in strengthening civic participation across the Triangle. They help:

Encourage informed voting decisions Increase transparency around policy priorities Promote community dialogue Build stronger connections between residents and city leadership

As Raleigh continues to grow, opportunities for direct engagement with elected officials remain essential for shaping inclusive, responsive local governance.

DoRaleigh Community Perspective

At DoRaleigh, we believe civic awareness is just as important as arts, culture, and entertainment coverage. Forums like this highlight the value of staying informed, participating in local conversations, and supporting community dialogue that shapes Raleigh’s future.

Expect continued coverage of:

Local elections and candidate forums City council and committee updates Community engagement opportunities Triangle civic events and public meetings.

Stay Connected With Raleigh Civic Events

Follow DoRaleigh for ongoing coverage of local government updates, election information, and community events across Raleigh and the Triangle region.

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Triangle Event Guide Weekend Edition (Feb. 7–8, 2026)

Winter Olympics Watch Parties, Super Bowl Events, Festivals & Things To Do in Raleigh-Durham

Looking for things to do in Raleigh, Durham, Cary, Chapel Hill, and across the Triangle this weekend? The DoRaleigh Triangle Event Guide Weekend Edition for February 7–8, 2026 highlights Winter Olympics watch parties, community festivals, markets, family activities, sports watch parties, live music, cultural events, and plenty of free things to do.

From Super Bowl parties and Lunar New Year celebrations to art exhibits, hikes, markets, and local brewery events, there’s something happening across the Triangle all weekend.


Saturday, February 7, 2026 — Triangle Events


Featured All-Day Events

Winter Olympics Watch Parties — All Day | Raleigh Brewing (Raleigh) National Eat Ice Cream for Breakfast Day — All Day | Various Triangle locations Krispy Kreme Doughnut Deal — Buy any dozen, get Original Glazed dozen for $2 (Multiple locations)


Morning Events

2nd Annual EagleFest at Jordan Lake — 8am–12pm | Jordan Lake Dam Eno to Eno Hike — 8am–4pm | West Point on the Eno (Durham) Krispy Kreme Challenge — 8am | Memorial Belltower, NC State (Raleigh) Cars & Coffee Morrisville — 8am–11am | Imperial Center (Durham) Girls & Women in Sports Clinic (Duke Athletics) — 9am–10:30am Home Depot Kids Workshop: Penguin Mailbox — 9am–12pm | Multiple locations Durham Craft Market — 9am–12pm | Durham Central Park


Midday Events & Community Activities

Astronomy Days — 10am–5pm | NC Museum of Natural Sciences (Raleigh) Durham Community Day — 10am–5pm | Museum of Life + Science Black History Month Celebration — 11am–2pm | John Chavis Memorial Park (Raleigh) Lunar New Year Market — 11am–4pm | Raleigh Iron Works Mystic Chili Cookoff — 12pm–4pm | Mystic Farm & Distillery (Durham) Valentine Markets & Adoption Events across Raleigh, Cary, Durham & Wake Forest


Afternoon Activities

Free Yoga at City of Raleigh Museum — 1pm Historic Yates Mill Guided Hike — 2pm Prairie Ridge Ecostation Programs — 1pm–3pm Really Really Free Markets in Carrboro & Durham area Artist Talks, Film Festivals & Gallery Events across the Triangle


Evening Entertainment & Nightlife

Duke vs. UNC Basketball Watch Parties (Cary & Durham) Live Music across Apex, Cary, Durham, Fuquay-Varina, Wake Forest & Holly Springs Karaoke nights, brewery events, and local music showcases


Sunday, February 8, 2026 — Triangle Events


All-Day Highlights

Winter Olympics Watch Parties — Raleigh Brewing Krispy Kreme Doughnut Promotion — Multiple locations Astronomy Days — NC Museum of Natural Sciences


Community, Family & Arts Events

Really Really Free Market — Eliza Pool Park (Raleigh) Artspace Open Studio — Raleigh Living in Color Exhibit Opening — Dix Park Puppy Bowl Watch Party — Hillsborough Dog Adoption Events across the Triangle


Super Bowl Sunday Watch Parties (Triangle Wide)

Expect watch parties at breweries, restaurants, wineries, and entertainment venues including:

ZincHouse Winery & Brewery (Durham) Clouds Brewing (Raleigh) Carolina Ale House locations Kings Dining + Entertainment (North Hills) Tap Yard Raleigh Dram & Draught (Soup Competition) Abbey Road Tavern Cary Sneaky Penguin Brewing (Raleigh) Beer Box Cary & The Can Opener Durham

Many locations feature food specials, contests, free snacks, or themed entertainment.


Evening Music & Social Events

Open mic nights and music jams across Durham & Raleigh Bluegrass sessions in Cary Community gatherings and cultural programming


Why This Weekend Stands Out in the Triangle

✔ Winter Olympics excitement across Raleigh breweries

✔ Super Bowl Sunday events everywhere

✔ Black History Month celebrations

✔ Lunar New Year programming

✔ Family-friendly museum days

✔ Outdoor hikes, markets, and free activities

It’s a perfect weekend to explore the Triangle’s arts, culture, food, and community scene.


Stay Connected With DoRaleigh

For daily event updates, local government meetings, festivals, nightlife, and community happenings across Raleigh-Durham:

👉 Visit DoRaleigh.com regularly

👉 Follow local event guides and weekend updates

👉 Share events with friends and neighbors

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Downtown Raleigh Event Guide — First Friday Edition

Friday, February 6, 2026 | Arts, Nightlife, Music & More

It’s First Friday in Downtown Raleigh, one of the best nights of the month to explore art, culture, nightlife, music, and community events across the city. Whether you’re gallery hopping, catching live music, exploring downtown tours, or enjoying late-night vibes — here’s your curated DoRaleigh First Friday guide.

First Friday Art Walks & Creative Events

Downtown Raleigh shines during First Friday with dozens of galleries, pop-ups, artist receptions, and cultural showcases.

Highlights include:

Artspace First Friday — 4PM–6PM Residential Urbanity Skate Photography Showcase — 6–9PM | City of Raleigh Museum First Friday at CoLab: Uncomfortable Together — 6–11PM Hartwell Artist Reception + Live Music & Pizza — 6–9PM Reflections of Us Portraiture Exhibit — 6–11PM | Fish Market Gallery Gallery C: Venice — New Paintings by Bert Sult — 6–8PM Street Frame New Artists Opening — 5–7PM Curate Raleigh First Friday with Made By Macie — 6–9PM Linda Ruth Dickinson Open Studio — 6–8PM Glenwood Fine Art First Friday Event — 6–8PM

Expect vibrant creativity, local artists, and plenty of opportunities to explore Raleigh’s growing arts scene.

Music, Performances & Entertainment

North Carolina Symphony Performances

Gershwin & More — 12PM Gershwin & Bernstein — 8PM

Live Music & Comedy Highlights:

Daddy’s Soda Live at The Davie — 8–11PM Free Improv Jam & Open Mic — Leela Improv Theatre — 7–9:30PM Karaoke Night — Crank Arm Brewing — 8–11PM Late Nights at Neptunes Parlour — 10PM–2AM

These performances make First Friday a perfect night for both culture lovers and nightlife explorers.


Tours, Experiences & Unique Activities

Looking for something different? Downtown Raleigh has plenty:

Downtown Raleigh Historian-Guided Tour — 3PM Downtown Raleigh True Crime Tour — 8PM | Moore Square Virtual Reality Beach Lounge + Mocktails — Current Wellness — 5:30–7PM Sip, Sign & Support Wine Event at DRINK — 5–7PM

These events combine education, entertainment, and social experiences.

Nightlife, Social & Late-Night Events

Downtown Raleigh keeps the energy going into the night:

Salsa Night — Boatman Spirits Co. — 10PM–2AM School Photo Day Party — Wolfe & Porter — 7–9PM First Friday Flashes Tattoo Event — Le Dive — 5–10PM

Perfect options for anyone looking to extend the First Friday fun.


Why First Friday in Raleigh Matters

First Friday isn’t just an art walk — it’s a community tradition that:

✔ Supports local artists and businesses

✔ Activates downtown public spaces

✔ Builds Raleigh’s creative economy

✔ Creates opportunities for community connection

It’s one of the best ways to experience Raleigh’s culture.

Stay Connected with Downtown Raleigh

For more updates on:

Downtown Raleigh events First Friday art walks Local concerts, festivals, and nightlife Community and government happenings

👉 Keep following DoRaleigh.com for daily event guides and local coverage.

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Triangle Event Guide — Friday February 6th Edition

Things to Do in Raleigh, Durham, Cary & the Triangle Today

Looking for things to do in Raleigh, Durham, Cary, and across the Triangle today? From First Friday art walks and Black History Month events to food deals, concerts, comedy, and nightlife — here’s your curated DoRaleigh Triangle Event Guide for Friday, February 6, 2026.


Food Deals & Special Promotions

Krispy Kreme Deal

Buy any dozen doughnuts and get an Original Glazed dozen for $2

All Day | $2 | Multiple locations

National Frozen Yogurt Day Deals

Discounts and specials at participating yogurt shops

All Day | Various locations

Free Coffee Tasting — Tasting at Ten

Counter Culture Coffee Headquarters (Durham)

10:00 AM | FREE


Daytime Activities & Community Events

First Friday Bird Walk

White Deer Park, Garner

8:00–10:00 AM | FREE

Hayti Heritage Center Trip

Carrboro Town Commons

10:00 AM–3:00 PM | $10

Houseplants & Pottery Sale

Logan’s Garden Center, NC Farmers Market

10:00 AM–6:00 PM

Black History Month Walking Tours

Taylor Street Park, Wake Forest

1:00 PM | FREE

Olympics Opening Ceremonies Live Viewing

Raleigh Brewing Company

2:00 PM | FREE

Ackland Art Museum Tour

Chapel Hill

3:00–4:00 PM | FREE

Crowder By Night: Outstanding Opossums

Crowder County Park, Apex

4:00–5:00 PM | FREE


First Friday & Arts Events

Artspace First Friday

Live art-making and exhibitions

4:00–10:00 PM | Raleigh | FREE

First Friday Gallery Walk

Various Downtown Raleigh venues

6:00–9:00 PM | FREE

Residential Urbanity Skate Photography Showcase

City of Raleigh Museum

6:00–9:00 PM | FREE

First Friday at CoLab — “Uncomfortable Together”

CoLab Raleigh

6:00–11:00 PM | FREE

First Friday Wellness Experience

Current Wellness (VR beach lounge + mocktails)

5:30–7:00 PM | FREE


Music, Film & Entertainment

Free Concert — Pianist Mikael Darmanie

Cary Arts Center

7:00–8:30 PM | FREE

French Film Festival Screening

Rubenstein Arts Center, Duke University

7:00 PM | FREE

Hoppy Hour Cinema Movie Night

Glass Jug Downtown Durham

7:00–10:00 PM | FREE

Bounce & Brews DJ Night

Gizmo Brew Works, Durham

7:00–9:00 PM | FREE

Olympics Re-Watch Party

Raleigh Brewing Company

8:00 PM | FREE


Social, Nightlife & Fun Events

Plant Bingo

Oaklyn Springs Brewery, Fuquay-Varina

6:30 PM | FREE

Cooking Demo: SoulFULL Celebrations

Downtown Cary Park

6:00–8:00 PM | FREE

Salsa Dancing Night + 25% Off Entrées

Himalayan Fried Chicken N Bar, Carrboro

6:00–8:00 PM | FREE

Teen Science Café

NC Museum of Natural Sciences (Nature Research Center)

6:00–7:00 PM | FREE

Skywatching Event — First Friday Under the Stars

Three Bears Acres, Creedmoor

6:00–9:00 PM | FREE

Karaoke Bingo Night

KōMANA Brewing Company, Cary

7:00–10:00 PM | FREE

Video Game Night

Moon Dog Meadery, Durham

7:00–11:00 PM | FREE

Stand-Up Comedy Open Mic

Durty Bull Brewing Company, Durham

8:00–11:00 PM | FREE

RuPaul’s Drag Race Watch Party

The Beerded Lady Bottle Shop, Garner

8:00–9:30 PM | FREE

Karaoke with Mega Mike

Crank Arm Brewing, Raleigh

8:00–11:00 PM | FREE


Final Thoughts

From First Friday art experiences and Black History Month celebrations to food specials, concerts, nightlife, and free community events, the Triangle offers something for everyone this Friday.

Stay connected with DoRaleigh.com for:

Daily Triangle event guides Local community updates Arts, culture, and nightlife coverage Major event recaps and promotions

👉 Check back regularly — the Triangle always has something happening.

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The Soccer Tournament (TST) Returns to the Triangle – What to Know About This High-Stakes Soccer Festival

One of the most exciting international sporting events to hit the Triangle in recent years is back. The Soccer Tournament (TST) — a fast-paced, high-stakes 7-on-7 soccer competition — continues to draw global talent, celebrity players, and passionate fans to the Raleigh-Cary area.

The 2026 tournament is scheduled for May 27 through June 1 at WakeMed Soccer Park in Cary, North Carolina, keeping the Triangle firmly on the map as a major destination for international soccer events. 


What Is The Soccer Tournament (TST)?

TST is a unique seven-a-side soccer competition featuring a winner-take-all prize — often $1 million per division — with teams from around the world competing in a festival-style atmosphere. 

Founded in 2023 by the creators of The Basketball Tournament, the event combines professional players, retired legends, influencers, and amateur talent in a fast-paced tournament format. 


Expect:

International teams and soccer legends High-energy 7v7 matches Fan activations, entertainment, and meet-and-greets A festival vibe beyond just the games


Why It’s a Big Deal for the Triangle

The tournament has quickly become a major regional sports attraction. Hosting TST in Cary brings:

Tourism and economic impact for the Triangle National media exposure Opportunities for local businesses and vendors A global soccer showcase close to home

Local officials have even supported efforts to keep the event in Cary long-term because of its projected economic impact. 


The Format: Fast, Fun, and Unique

TST stands out from traditional soccer competitions thanks to its innovative format:

7-on-7 matches on smaller pitches World Cup-style group stage and knockout rounds A “target score” ending designed to ensure dramatic finishes Mixed participation from professionals, legends, and amateurs

This structure keeps games fast, unpredictable, and extremely fan-friendly. 


What Fans Can Expect

Beyond the matches themselves, TST is designed as a full sports festival experience with:

✔ International food and entertainment

✔ Fan experiences and activations

✔ Opportunities to meet players

✔ Family-friendly activities

It’s not just soccer — it’s a summer kickoff event for the region.


Planning Your Visit

If you’re considering attending:

Watch for ticket releases and team announcements Plan transportation early — the event attracts large crowds Consider making a full weekend of exploring Cary and Raleigh

This event typically draws thousands of fans and significant regional attention.


Final Thoughts

The Soccer Tournament has quickly become one of the Triangle’s signature sporting events. With world-class players, a unique format, and a festival atmosphere, TST delivers excitement both on and off the pitch.

Stay tuned to DoRaleigh.com for local coverage, event updates, and guides as the tournament approaches — especially if you want to experience one of North Carolina’s most dynamic sports weekends.

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Raleigh Non-Partisan Candidates Forum Feb. 7th at Shaw University

Engage with local candidates, ask questions, and learn about Raleigh’s future

Community members across Raleigh will have the chance to hear directly from local candidates at the upcoming City of Raleigh Non-Partisan Candidates’ Forum this Saturday, February 7, 2026. The event provides an open space for residents to learn about important issues impacting the city and participate in respectful civic dialogue.

Whether you’re preparing to vote, interested in local leadership, or simply want to stay informed, this forum offers a valuable opportunity to connect with candidates and better understand their perspectives.

Event Details

📅 Date: Saturday, February 7, 2026

📍 Location: Shaw University (full address shared after registration)

💲 Cost: Free admission – lunch provided

Candidate Sessions

Mayoral & At-Large Candidates:

🕥 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM

District Representative Candidates:

🕐 1:00 PM – 2:30 PM


Why This Forum Matters

Local elections shape decisions about housing, transportation, economic development, public safety, and community resources. Events like this help residents:

Hear directly from candidates Ask meaningful questions Stay informed about local issues Participate in constructive civic dialogue Make informed choices about Raleigh’s future

For residents engaged in Raleigh’s community development, neighborhood advocacy, or business ecosystem, attending forums like this is a powerful way to stay connected to city leadership conversations.


Registration Information

Advance registration is required to receive the full event location details.

👉 Register here

Stay Connected with Raleigh Civic Events

DoRaleigh.com continues to highlight opportunities for residents to engage with local government, community initiatives, and city development conversations. Stay tuned for more civic event coverage, election updates, and community guides across the Triangle.

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Raleigh Comedy Festival Returns: Comedy Takes Center Stage in Downtown Raleigh

If you’re looking for laughs in the Triangle, the Raleigh Comedy Festival is quickly becoming one of the region’s most exciting entertainment events. Bringing together national touring comedians, rising talent, and local performers, the festival transforms downtown Raleigh into a multi-day comedy destination.

The upcoming festival is scheduled for March 26–28, 2026, continuing the event’s momentum as a growing cultural attraction for Raleigh’s arts and nightlife scene. 

A Comedy Festival Built for Raleigh

The Raleigh Comedy Festival is designed to showcase both established comedians and emerging voices. Previous editions have included dozens of comedians performing across multiple venues, creating a citywide comedy experience similar to how music festivals activate downtown spaces. 

Expect:

Stand-up comedy shows across several venues National touring comedians and regional talent Opportunities to discover new comedic voices A lively downtown festival atmosphere

It’s truly a festival “for Raleigh, by Raleigh,” reflecting the city’s growing creative community. 

Supporting Local Talent

One standout aspect of the festival is its commitment to local comedians. Dedicated submission opportunities help highlight North Carolina performers, ensuring the festival celebrates homegrown talent alongside national acts. 

This approach strengthens Raleigh’s reputation as an emerging comedy hub and gives audiences a chance to see the next big names before they break out nationally.

Why This Festival Matters for Raleigh

Raleigh continues to expand as a destination for arts, entertainment, and culture — and events like this play a major role. Comedy festivals:

Boost downtown nightlife and tourism Support local venues and artists Bring diverse entertainment options to the Triangle Showcase Raleigh’s creative identity

For residents and visitors alike, it’s another reason to explore Raleigh’s vibrant cultural scene.

Plan Your Visit

If you’re considering attending:

✔ Watch for lineup announcements and passes

✔ Follow festival updates for venue details

✔ Plan early — popular shows may sell out

Whether you’re a comedy superfan or just looking for a fun night out, this festival offers something for everyone.

Final Thoughts

The Raleigh Comedy Festival continues to grow as one of the Triangle’s most entertaining annual events. With national talent, local comedians, and multiple shows packed into a lively weekend, it’s quickly becoming a must-attend experience in downtown Raleigh.

Stay tuned to DoRaleigh.com for updates, coverage, and local event highlights as the festival approaches.

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Downtown Raleigh Event Guide — Thursday February 5th Edition

Live Music, Theatre, Trivia, Food Specials & Nightlife in Downtown Raleigh

Downtown Raleigh continues to deliver a vibrant mix of arts, culture, food, nightlife, and community experiences. Whether you’re planning a date night, group outing, or solo adventure, Thursday offers plenty of options — from ballet and theatre to trivia nights, craft events, live music, and dining specials.

Here’s what’s happening around downtown Raleigh this Thursday:

Featured Arts, Theatre & Performances

Carolina Ballet Presents Carmen Suite

2:00 PM Matinee & 7:30 PM Evening Performance

Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts

Experience world-class ballet inspired by the classic opera — a must-see cultural event downtown.

Little River Band — Live Concert

7:30 PM

Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts

Enjoy classic rock hits from the legendary band in an iconic Raleigh venue.

Red Pitch — Theatre Opening

7:30 PM (Thu–Sat) | 2:00 PM Sunday

Burning Coal Theatre Company

A compelling theatrical production exploring identity, friendship, and change.

Leela Improv Theatre Drop-In Class

7:00–9:00 PM

Leela Improv Theatre

Perfect for beginners or experienced performers looking to sharpen improv skills.

Food, Drinks & Social Events

Figulina Aperitivo Hour

5:00–6:30 PM

Figulina Pasta + Provisions

Enjoy small plates, drinks, and a relaxed early evening social vibe.

Classic Cocktails & Classic Hip Hop

8:00 PM–12:00 AM

Boatman Spirits Co.

Craft cocktails meet throwback hip hop for a laid-back nightlife experience.

Creative & Community Events

Craft Night

5:00–7:00 PM

Copperline Plant Co.

A creative evening for plant lovers and DIY enthusiasts.

Trivia with the Professor

7:00–9:00 PM

Woody’s at City Market

A fun, competitive trivia night perfect for friend groups or coworkers.

Thursday Music Karaoke

8:00–10:00 PM

Wolfe & Porter

Sing your favorites in a relaxed downtown setting.

Why Downtown Raleigh Thursdays Are Worth Exploring

Downtown Raleigh offers:

✔ Walkable entertainment districts

✔ Diverse food and nightlife options

✔ Arts and cultural programming

✔ Community-driven events

✔ Unique local venues and businesses

Whether you’re looking for live performances, casual social events, or nightlife experiences, downtown consistently delivers.


Stay Connected With DoRaleigh

Bryan — these downtown guides are core content for DoRaleigh since they:

Strengthen local SEO visibility Support small businesses Increase event awareness Position DoRaleigh as the Triangle events authority

👉 Check DoRaleigh.com regularly for daily event guides

👉 Submit events for coverage

👉 Follow local happenings across the Triangle

Post your community News, Events, and you can request placing a Paid ad on our Submissions Page.

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Triangle Event Guide: Things to Do Thursday, February 5th Edition

Looking for something to do around Raleigh, Durham, Cary, Zebulon, and the Triangle area this Thursday? From community gatherings and live music to trivia nights, karaoke, cultural events, and free food resources — there’s something for everyone.

As always, this guide highlights free and budget-friendly events across the Triangle.

Community, Educational & Cultural Events

Free Food Giveaway

10:00 AM – 12:00 PM | FREE

Hopkins Chapel Baptist Church — Zebulon

Hosted with the Food Bank of Central and Eastern NC, this event supports community members with free food distribution.

Great Decisions Discussion Series

10:00 AM – 12:00 PM | FREE

The Woman’s Club of Raleigh

Join thoughtful discussions about global affairs and current events.

Bilingual Storytime

10:30 – 11:00 AM | FREE

Nasher Museum of Art — Durham

A family-friendly storytelling experience in multiple languages.

Fireside Chat: Early History of RTP

6:00 PM | FREE

Museum of Durham History

Learn about the origins and evolution of Research Triangle Park.

Full Frame Winter Road Show Film Screening

7:00 PM | FREE (Reservation Required)

The Cary Theater

Featured documentary: Mr. Nobody Against Putin.

Duke French Film Festival Screening

7:00 PM | FREE

Rubenstein Arts Center — Durham

International cinema with English subtitles and discussion.

Family-Friendly & Social Events

Pokémon Night with Mr. Jim’s Cards

5:00 PM | FREE

Sneaky Penguin Brewing — Raleigh

Bring your deck or trade cards with fellow Pokémon fans.

Science Trivia Night

7:00 – 8:00 PM | FREE

NC Museum of Natural Sciences — Raleigh

Fun educational trivia for science lovers.

Board Game Night

7:00 – 11:00 PM | FREE

Moon Dog Meadery — Durham

Casual gaming and social fun.

Music Bingo

7:00 – 9:00 PM | FREE

Fortnight Brewing — Cary

Music knowledge meets bingo night.

Air Hockey Tournament

8:00 – 10:00 PM | FREE

Boxcar Bar + Arcade — Durham

Skee Ball Tournament

9:00 – 11:00 PM | FREE

Boxcar Bar + Arcade — Raleigh

Classic arcade competition and social fun.

Live Music, Arts & Entertainment

Live Music: Alexandra Franco & Carlos Pino

5:30 – 7:00 PM | FREE

Boxyard RTP

Vinyl Nights

6:00 – 9:00 PM | FREE

Gizmo Brew Works — Durham

Raleigh Uke Jam

6:30 – 8:30 PM | FREE

Church of the Nativity — Raleigh

Jazz: The Session

8:00 – 11:00 PM | FREE

Bond Brothers Eastside — Cary

Food, Drinks & Creative Social Events

Thursday Uncorked (Wine Specials)

4:00 – 10:00 PM | Discounted

The Longleaf Hotel — Raleigh

Doodle & Drink

7:00 – 9:00 PM | FREE

Ment Beverage Co. — Durham

Casual creative drawing session.

Nightlife & Karaoke

Thursday Karaoke

9:00 – 11:00 PM | FREE

Tap Yard — Raleigh

Karaoke Hosted by Empress

9:00 PM | FREE

Speakeasy — Carrboro

Great way to unwind and connect locally.

Explore the Triangle This Week

Whether you’re:

✔ Looking for free entertainment

✔ Networking locally

✔ Supporting community events

✔ Enjoying live music or nightlife

✔ Finding family-friendly activities

The Triangle continues to offer diverse, accessible events every day.

Stay Connected With DoRaleigh

Bryan — since you’re consistently building DoRaleigh as a go-to community hub, this type of daily guide really strengthens your local authority and SEO footprint. Keep sending them out regularly.

For more updates:

👉 Visit DoRaleigh.com daily

👉 Submit your events

👉 Follow local community coverage

👉 Share with friends and neighbors

Post your community News, Events, and you can request placing a Paid ad on our Submissions Page.

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February in the Triangle – Top Things to Do

There’s plenty of fun packed into the 28 days of February 2026 in the Triangle. From cultural celebrations and seasonal festivals to family activities, sports clinics, and Valentine’s Day events, there’s something happening across Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill, Cary, and surrounding communities.

As always, DoRaleigh highlighting events whenever possible — perfect for families, date nights, community connections, and local exploration.

Below are some major February highlights, followed by a broader look at what’s happening across the Triangle.


Major February 2026 Event Highlights

Groundhog Day Celebration — Garner

Date: February 2, 2026

Time: 10:00 AM – 12:15 PM

Location: White Deer Park, Garner

Cost: Free

Celebrate Groundhog Day with Snerd the Groundhog’s weather prediction plus live animals, Smokey Bear appearances, educational exhibits, and family activities.


Lunar New Year Market — Raleigh

Date: February 7, 2026

Time: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Location: Raleigh Iron Works

Cost: Free

Celebrate the Year of the Horse with food trucks, cultural activities, and shopping from Asian American and Pacific Islander-owned businesses.


National Girls & Women in Sports Day Clinic — Durham

Date: February 7, 2026

Time: 9:00 – 10:30 AM

Location: Cameron Indoor Stadium, Duke University

Cost: Free

Young athletes (grades 1–8) can participate in clinics led by Duke women’s varsity athletes. Registration recommended.


Gold Medal Games — Cary

Date: February 7, 2026

Time: 1:00 – 5:00 PM

Location: Downtown Cary Park

Cost: Free

Celebrate winter sports with hands-on activities like VR skiing, curling demos, and Olympic watch parties.


Astronomy Days — Raleigh

Dates: February 7–8, 2026

Location: NC Museum of Natural Sciences

Cost: Free

Explore the universe through telescope viewing, scientist talks, demonstrations, and family-friendly STEM activities.


French Film Festival — Durham

Dates: February 5, 6, 7, 10, 13

Location: Rubenstein Arts Center, Duke University

Cost: Free

Enjoy French cinema with English subtitles, introductions, and Q&A sessions with scholars and filmmakers.


Super Bowl Watch Parties — Triangle Area

Date: February 8, 2026

Kickoff: 6:30 PM

Expect sports bar specials, community watch parties, and themed events throughout Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill.


BEERthoven Concert — Durham

Date: February 10, 2026

Time: 7:30 PM

Location: Atomic Clock Brewing

Cost: Donations

Classical music meets craft beer featuring the Chamber Orchestra of the Triangle and guest artists.


Valentine’s Day Events — Triangle Wide

Date: Around February 14, 2026

Look for romantic dinners, singles mixers, concerts, themed markets, and unique local experiences throughout the Triangle.


Mardi Gras Celebrations — Triangle Area

Dates: February 13–21, 2026

Cost: Mostly Free

Expect parades, live music, beads, food specials, and festive community gatherings.


Geek Garage Sale — Durham

Date: February 21, 2026

Time: 12:00 – 3:00 PM

Location: Atomic Empire

Cost: Free to attend

Shop board games, collectibles, toys, and fandom gear — a fun event for pop culture lovers.


African American Cultural Celebration — Raleigh

Date: February 28, 2026

Time: 10:30 AM – 4:30 PM

Location: NC Museum of Art

Cost: Free

One of the Triangle’s signature Black History Month events featuring performances, panels, storytelling, vendors, and family activities.


Ongoing February Highlights

Black History Month Events (All Month)

Expect:

Cultural festivals Educational programs Art exhibits Community conversations Live performances Youth activities

Many events are free and hosted across Raleigh, Durham, Cary, and Chapel Hill.


National Eat Ice Cream for Breakfast Day

Date: February 7, 2026

Participating ice cream shops across the Triangle will open early with themed treats.


Plan Your February in the Triangle

February may be short, but it’s packed with:

✔ Cultural celebrations

✔ Community festivals

✔ Seasonal activities

✔ Family-friendly outings

✔ Affordable entertainment

Whether you’re exploring downtown Raleigh, checking out Durham arts events, or discovering something new in Chapel Hill or Cary, February is a great month to stay connected locally.


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