Friday in Raleigh – Business, Civic Engagement, and Community Fun

Friday in Raleigh was a full-circle day that captured what makes our city special—entrepreneurship, civic participation, and community connection. From a morning small-business workshop to an impactful local candidates forum and a lively game night downtown, here’s a recap of a well-spent Friday in the City of Oaks.

Starting Strong: How to Start a Business in Wake County (In Person)

The day kicked off with “How to Start a Business in Wake County (In Person)”, hosted by the North Carolina Community College Small Business Center at Halifax Community Center.

This informative seminar walked attendees through the journey from idea to opportunity, covering essential topics every entrepreneur needs to know:

Startup strategy and self-assessment Financing and marketing fundamentals Legal considerations, licensing, zoning, and operations Evaluating the feasibility of a business idea Local and regional resources available to new business owners

It was a practical, empowering session for anyone considering launching—or refining—a business in Wake County.

Civic Engagement in Action: Southeast Raleigh Local Candidates Forum

Later in the day, the Local Candidates Forum for Southeast Raleigh brought together community members eager to hear directly from the voices shaping the March 2026 Primary.

The event saw a strong turnout and meaningful discussion. Attending helped clarify key issues and perspectives, making it easier to form informed decisions about the upcoming primary. Forums like this continue to prove how engaged and thoughtful Southeast Raleigh residents are when it comes to local leadership.

📸 Check out the photos below to see the energy and engagement from the event.

Community & Connection: Game Night at Juiced

The evening wrapped up with Game Night at Juiced, and it did not disappoint. Hosted at Juiced, the event was a full house filled with laughter, learning, and friendly competition.

Discovered a new game Met new friends Enjoyed great vibes and positive energy A wide variety of games for all experience levels

It was one of those nights that reminds you how powerful simple, in-person community experiences can be.

📸 Photos below capture just how lively the night was.

A Friday Well Spent in Raleigh

From building businesses to shaping local democracy and connecting with neighbors, this Friday in Raleigh showcased the many ways our community shows up for itself. Whether you’re launching a startup, learning about local candidates, or just looking for something fun to do downtown, Raleigh continues to deliver.

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Local Candidates Forum for Southeast Raleigh: Meet the Voices Shaping the March 2026 Primary

Residents of Southeast Raleigh are invited to take part in an important civic engagement opportunity tonight, January 9 at 7:00 PM, at Martin Street Baptist Church. The Local Candidates Forum for Southeast Raleigh brings community members face-to-face with the candidates seeking your support in the March 2026 Primary Election.

This forum is designed to inform, empower, and encourage voter participation by giving residents a chance to hear directly from candidates, understand their priorities, and ask questions about the issues that matter most to Southeast Raleigh.

Why This Candidates Forum Matters

Local elections have a direct impact on neighborhoods, schools, transportation, housing, public safety, and economic opportunity. Attending a candidates forum allows voters to:

Hear candidates explain their platforms in their own words Compare positions on key local and regional issues Learn how each candidate plans to serve Southeast Raleigh Make an informed decision ahead of the March 2026 Primary

Community forums like this play a vital role in strengthening local democracy and ensuring Southeast Raleigh voices are heard.

Event Details

What: Local Candidates Forum for Southeast Raleigh

When: Tonight – January 9, 2026 at 7:00 PM

Where: Martin Street Baptist Church

Who Should Attend: Registered voters, community leaders, students, and residents interested in local government

Get Informed. Get Involved. Get Ready to Vote.

If you care about the future of Southeast Raleigh, this forum is an opportunity you won’t want to miss. Whether you’re a long-time voter or preparing to vote for the first time, attending helps ensure your decision in the March 2026 Primary Election is informed and intentional.

Bring a friend, bring your questions, and be part of shaping the future of our community.

Follow DoRaleigh.com for daily updates on government meetings, local festivals, and community happenings — your one-stop guide to everything Raleigh!

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Kwanzaa Events in the Triangle – A Day-by-Day Guide to Celebrating Culture and Community

From December 26 through January 1, communities across the Triangle come together to observe Kwanzaa, a weeklong cultural celebration rooted in African heritage, unity, and collective purpose. Guided by the Nguzo Saba (Seven Principles), Kwanzaa events throughout the region offer meaningful opportunities for families, neighbors, and visitors to reflect, connect, and celebrate together.

Whether you’re in Durham, Carrboro, or Cary, this day-by-day list highlights Kwanzaa events happening across the Triangle.

What Is Kwanzaa?

Kwanzaa is a cultural observance celebrated annually from December 26 to January 1, honoring African American history and values. Each day focuses on one of the Seven Principles:

Umoja (Unity) Kujichagulia (Self-Determination) Ujima (Collective Work & Responsibility) Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics) Nia (Purpose) Kuumba (Creativity) Imani (Faith)

Events often include candle-lighting ceremonies, storytelling, music and dance, youth activities, and community service initiatives.

Day-by-Day List of Kwanzaa Events in the Triangle

Friday, December 26, 2025

Hayti Legacy Kwanzaa Celebration

Suggested donation: $5 (no one turned away)

🕐 1:00 pm – 6:30 pm | FREE

📍 Hayti Heritage Center

Kick off Kwanzaa in Durham’s historic Hayti community with a legacy celebration featuring reflections on Umoja, cultural programming, and community fellowship.

Saturday, December 27, 2025

Town of Carrboro Kwanzaa Celebration

🕚 11:00 am – 4:00 pm | FREE

📍 Drakeford Library Complex, Carrboro

A family-friendly celebration hosted by the Town of Carrboro with educational programming, cultural activities, and community engagement.

Kwanzaa Celebration: Family Vision Boarding

🕛 12:00 pm – 3:00 pm | FREE

📍 Cocoa Cinnamon, Lakewood (Durham)

This creative gathering focuses on Nia (Purpose), inviting families to set intentions for the new year through guided vision boarding.

Sunday, December 28, 2025

Kwanzaa Celebration at Eno River Unitarian Universalist Fellowship

🕚 11:00 am | FREE

📍 Eno River Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, Durham

A reflective, community-centered Kwanzaa observance highlighting unity, faith, and shared values.

Kwanzaa: Coat Drive

🕑 2:00 pm – 5:00 pm | FREE

📍 USSW, Durham

Celebrate Ujima (Collective Work and Responsibility) by giving back—this event combines Kwanzaa observance with a community coat drive.

Monday, December 29, 2025

Town of Cary’s Annual Kwanzaa Celebration

🕜 1:30 pm – 6:00 pm | FREE

📍 Cary Arts Center, Cary

A signature regional celebration featuring performances, cultural presentations, and reflections on heritage and community.

Wednesday, December 31, 2025

Kwanzaa Celebration: Free Family & Individual Photo Shoot

🕐 1:00 pm – 6:00 pm | FREE

📍 Legacy Studios NC, Durham

Close out the year by capturing memories with a free professional photo experience celebrating family, identity, and Imani (Faith).

Thursday, January 1, 2026

Kwanzaa Fest with the African American Dance Ensemble

🕛 12:00 pm – 5:30 pm | FREE

📍 Durham Armory

Ring in the new year with high-energy performances, cultural expression, and community celebration honoring creativity and faith.

Celebrate Kwanzaa Across the Triangle

Kwanzaa events in the Triangle are welcoming, accessible, and rooted in community values. Many are free and open to the public, making it easy for families, elders, and young people to participate together. Times and details may change, so it’s always a good idea to confirm event information with organizers before attending.

From legacy celebrations and service-focused events to dance performances and creative workshops, Kwanzaa in the Triangle offers powerful ways to close out the year with intention, unity, and purpose. Enjoy a look at photo’s from the Southeast Raleigh Kwanzaa Event.

Follow DoRaleigh.com for daily updates on government meetings, local festivals, and community happenings — your one-stop guide to everything Raleigh!

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The Men of Southeast Raleigh Continue Supporting Partner Read

Each week, the Men of Southeast Raleigh continue their powerful commitment to supporting students through the Partner Read Program at Southeast Raleigh Elementary School. Their presence is consistent, compassionate, and deeply impactful. By volunteering their time to read one-on-one with students, these community leaders are helping build confidence, strengthen literacy skills, and show our children that their success matters.

Reading is fundamental—not just for academic growth, but for unlocking imagination, opportunity, and lifelong learning. The Men of Southeast Raleigh understand this, and their ongoing dedication is a reminder of what community looks like in action. Raleigh’s future is brighter because of it.

Stay tuned to DoRaleigh.com for more stories highlighting the people and programs shaping Southeast Raleigh.

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Men of Southeast Raleigh — 4th Annual Family and Friends Cookout

Last Saturday, October 18, 2025, the Men of Southeast Raleigh (M­SER) gathered at the Biltmore Hills Community Center (2615 Fitzgerald Drive, Raleigh) from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. for their 4th Annual Family & Friends Cookout.  This event has become a signature fall-community celebration in Southeast Raleigh—uniting neighbors, friends, and families in an afternoon of food, fun, fellowship, and community pride. See the pictures below and support the Men Of Southeast Raleigh with a gift via their website.

#CommunityEvent #events #MenOfSouthEastRaleigh #News #raleigh #SoutheastRaleigh

The Men of Southeast Raleigh 4th Annual Family & Friends Cookout

Celebrate Brotherhood, Family, and Community in Southeast Raleigh

The Men of Southeast Raleigh invite you to their 4th Annual Family & Friends Cookout — a beloved community celebration filled with music, food, raffles, games, and laughter! Join us on Saturday, October 18th from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Biltmore Hills Community Center, 2615 Fitzgerald Drive, Raleigh, NC, for an unforgettable afternoon of unity and fun.

This annual event is a highlight of the fall season in Southeast Raleigh — bringing together families, neighbors, and friends to celebrate community pride, friendship, and fellowship. Expect soulful music, delicious cookout favorites, and plenty of activities for guests of all ages.

What to Bring

Come prepared for a day of relaxation and fun!

✔️ Bring your lawn chair to kick back and enjoy the music.

✔️ Pack your favorite games for all to enjoy.

✔️ Bring your appetite and community spirit!

Whether you’re catching up with old friends or meeting new faces, this cookout is about connection, laughter, and celebrating the strong bonds that make Southeast Raleigh thrive.

Event Details

📅 Date: Saturday, October 18, 2025

🕐 Time: 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM

📍 Location: Biltmore Hills Community Center, 2615 Fitzgerald Drive, Raleigh, NC

🎶 Activities: Music • Food • Raffles • Games • Family Fun

Building Stronger Communities Together

The Men of Southeast Raleigh are committed to uplifting and empowering their community through service, fellowship, and positive engagement. This cookout is more than just a gathering — it’s a celebration of unity, culture, and community progress.

Join us in the heart of Southeast Raleigh for good food, good music, and even better company!

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Meet Senator Dan Blue in Southeast Raleigh Event Recap

Last night, Raleigh residents gathered for a meaningful and well-attended community meeting with Senator Dan Blue at the Top Green Community Center on MLK Blvd. The event, designed for civic engagement and direct dialogue, provided a rare opportunity for open conversation at the heart of Southeast Raleigh.

Event Highlights

On September 8, 2025, at 6:30 PM, community members gathered at the Top Green Community Center on MLK Blvd in Raleigh for a special meeting with State Senator Dan Blue and Representative Abe Jones. Local residents from Southeast Raleigh came eager to connect with their elected leaders, raising questions and concerns around key issues such as education, healthcare, economic development, the controversial “Big Ugly” bill, rising property taxes, and the city’s evolving land use plan.

Why It Mattered

This community gathering highlighted the power of face-to-face civic engagement. In an age where much of political dialogue happens online, there’s something deeply impactful about seeing elected officials in person, asking questions, and getting direct answers.

Residents were able to voice concerns about pressing local and state issues, from the cost of living to future land use in Raleigh. The strong turnout demonstrated Southeast Raleigh’s commitment to staying informed and engaged in shaping its future.

Senator Blue and Representative Jones emphasized their dedication to listening, responding, and working with the community on solutions that address both immediate needs and long-term growth.

🏛️ Building Southeast Raleigh’s Future

Events like this reaffirm that civic engagement is not just about politics—it’s about community trust, accountability, and shared vision. The conversation at Top Green Community Center was a reminder that Raleigh’s strength lies in its people coming together to discuss challenges and opportunities.

📌 Stay connected with DoRaleigh.com for future updates on local government events, community meetings, and ways to stay engaged.

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Raleigh Come Out and Meet Sen. Dan Blue Tonight

Residents of Southeast Raleigh are invited to a special community meeting tonight with Sen. Dan Blue. This is a valuable opportunity to engage directly with one of our state’s most respected leaders, hear updates on key issues, and share your questions and concerns.

Event Details

When: Tonight, 6:30 PM
Where: Top Green Community Center, MLK Blvd, Raleigh, NC
Who: Open to the public — community members across Raleigh and Southeast Raleigh
Tip: Arrive early — seating is limited and demand will be high.

Sen. Blue has long been a champion for Southeast Raleigh, advocating for policies that impact education, healthcare, economic development, and community growth. Tonight’s meeting is an opportunity to connect face-to-face, stay informed, and make your voice heard.

👉 Follow DoRaleigh.com for more updates on local government, community events, and civic engagement across Raleigh.

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Raleigh Community Leaders Celebrate the First Day of School at Southeast Raleigh Elementary

The first day of school is always filled with excitement, energy, and fresh beginnings—and today, August 25, 2025, the Southeast Raleigh community came together to make it extra special.

A Warm Welcome Back to School

Students, parents, and staff at Southeast Raleigh Elementary School were greeted with smiles, cheers, and encouragement from a powerful lineup of community leaders and organizations. The event helped kick off the 2025 school year with a sense of unity and pride.

Community Organizations in Action

Several groups joined forces to ensure that the first day back was memorable and uplifting:

Men of Southeast Raleigh
Shaw University Women’s Basketball Team
Southeast Raleigh High School Girls Basketball Team
The Women of Southeast Raleigh
Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc.
The Links, Incorporated

These organizations came together to show students that they are supported, celebrated, and encouraged as they step into a brand-new academic year.

Parents, Students, and Staff United

The day wasn’t just about the children—it was also about building connections among parents, teachers, and the broader community. Laughter, handshakes, high-fives, and heartfelt words of encouragement filled the school grounds. Both parents and staff expressed appreciation for the outpouring of love and support.

Building Momentum for the 2025 School Year

As the 2025–2026 school year begins, Southeast Raleigh is setting the tone for success: strong partnerships, visible role models, and a united community. With the support of local leaders, the students of Southeast Raleigh Elementary are ready to learn, grow, and thrive.

Gratitude and Excitement Ahead

We extend a huge thank you to every organization, parent, and volunteer who made today’s welcome possible. The first day of school in Raleigh was more than just the start of classes—it was a celebration of community, hope, and opportunity.

#DoRaleigh #events #FirstDayOfSchool #News #PhiBetaSigma #raleigh #RaleighBackToSchool #RaleighCommunityEvents #RaleighEducation #RaleighYouth #ShawUniversity #SoutheastRaleigh #SoutheastRaleighElementary #TheLinksIncorporated