The Downtown Raleigh Nightlife Guide Thursday October 23rd Edition
Raleigh comes alive after dark — and Thursday night is no exception. Whether you’re looking for live music, craft cocktails, open mics, or haunted tours, downtown is buzzing with energy. Here’s your go-to guide to the best spots to unwind, laugh, and dance the night away.
🌇 SUNSET SOCIAL at THE BEND
⏰ 4PM–8PM | 📍 The Bend Bar
Kick off your evening with scenic skyline views and chill vibes at The Bend Bar’s weekly Sunset Social. Perfect for happy hour lovers and social butterflies — expect cocktails, conversation, and a golden-hour glow over the city.
🍸 $10 Classic Cocktails
⏰ All Day | 📍 Boatman Spirits Co.
Sip on handcrafted classics for just $10 all day long. Boatman Spirits Co. delivers smooth pours, local flavor, and a relaxing downtown atmosphere to start (or end) your night.
🎧 DJ Terminator X
⏰ 8PM–12AM | 📍 Boatman Spirits Co.
When the lights dim, the beats drop. Join DJ Terminator X — legendary Public Enemy turntablist — for a high-energy Thursday night session filled with hip-hop nostalgia and modern grooves.
✍️ Fiction I with the Redbud Writing Project
⏰ 6PM–8PM | 📍 Redbud Writing Project
Creatives, this one’s for you. Redbud’s workshop offers writers of all levels a supportive space to craft stories, share ideas, and build community.
🍗 Free Gussie’s Wings & Thursday Football
⏰ 8:15PM | 📍 Wolfe & Porter
Football, free wings, and good company — what’s not to love? Catch the Thursday Night NFL game at Wolfe & Porter while enjoying complimentary Gussie’s Wings with any drink purchase.
🎤 Karaoke Night at The Davie
⏰ 8PM–11PM | 📍 The Davie
Warm up your vocal cords and take the stage! Whether you’re a seasoned singer or just in it for laughs, The Davie is the spot for fun, friends, and unforgettable performances.
🎸 Kult Ikon with Friendship Commanders
⏰ 9PM–11PM | 📍 Slim’s Downtown
Experience the raw energy of live rock as Kult Ikon and Friendship Commanders light up Slim’s. Expect gritty guitars, local fans, and that signature underground Raleigh vibe.
🎭 Leela Improv Theatre: Drop-in Improv Class
⏰ 7PM–9PM | 📍 Leela Improv Theatre
Get creative and spontaneous with Leela’s drop-in improv class! No experience necessary — just bring your humor and a willingness to play.
👻 Sip n’ Stroll Raleigh Ghost Tour
⏰ 7:30PM–8:45PM | 📍 Raleigh Walking Tours
Take a spooky stroll through downtown’s haunted history. Hear tales of Raleigh’s eerie past while sipping your favorite beverage — a perfect mix of fun and fright.
🖤 The Sinner’s Ball
⏰ 8PM–11PM | 📍 Meymandi Concert Hall, Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts
An elegant and mysterious night of performance, costume, and music — The Sinner’s Ball is where Raleigh’s dramatic flair meets high art. Dress to impress and embrace your darker side.
🎵 Thursday Night Music Karaoke
⏰ 8PM | 📍 Wolfe & Porter
Sing your heart out at Wolfe & Porter’s karaoke night — a lively, welcoming crowd and great drink specials make it a local favorite.
🎤 Zenith Raleigh Downtown Karaoke
⏰ 9PM | 📍 Zenith Raleigh
End your night on a high note with karaoke, cocktails, and city lights at Zenith Raleigh. It’s where downtown energy meets rooftop excitement.
🕺 Raleigh Nights Are Better Together
From rooftop cocktails to karaoke and ghost stories, Downtown Raleigh has something for every kind of night owl. Grab your friends, make new ones, and let the city guide your Thursday night adventure.
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