TOGETHER WITH
📍 8401 Falls of Neuse Rd, Raleigh
Good afternoon, Raleigh. The other day, my wife asked me to pass her lipstick, but I accidentally passed her a glue stick.
She still isn't talking to me. 💄
In today’s Raleigh Rundown:
10+ fun things to do in Raleigh this weekend + live local music
$73 million play plaza opening Friday
Landmark BBQ joint has sold its property
Raleigh to Richmond rail getting massive funding
And more!
Let’s get to it. 🏃♂️
SPONSORED BY ROCKET WASH EXPRESS 🚀
Rocket Wash Express – Raleigh
📍 8401 Falls of Neuse Rd, Raleigh (Next to Lifetime Fitness)
🔗 Visit us online
Enter Our Galaxy and Leave with a Sparkling Clean Ride
Join the Unlimited Wash Club. Plans start at just $20/month!
Exclusive discounts available for Lifetime Fitness members, military, teachers, and first responders.
🚀 Get a FREE Galaxy Graph-X Wash ($30 value):
Text 411365 and type "Rocket8" in the message to claim yours today!
STORIES THIS WEEK
Massive new Gipson Play Plaza opening Friday 🛝
Dorothea Dix Park’s transformation continues with the grand opening of Gipson Play Plaza, a stunning 18.5-acre playground and gathering space opening this weekend, with grand opening festivities happening Friday - Sunday. Designed as a major entry point to the park, the plaza features immersive public art, including giant deer sculptures and a poetic tribute engraved in the garden.
📸 News & Observer
The $73.5 million project includes a sand pit, waterfall, sensory maze, and Raleigh’s first concessions area inside the historic “House of Many Porches.” While the adventure play area is a major draw, organizers emphasize that the space offers something for everyone, from quiet gardens to rocking-chair relaxation with coffee or wine. Park hours will be 8am - 9pm daily.
Raleigh to Richmond rail work continuing 🚉
North Carolina’s plan for high-speed passenger rail between Raleigh and Richmond is nearing a key federal review that could reinstate nearly $1.1 billion in funding. The project aims to convert an existing freight line into a corridor for trains traveling up to 110 mph, starting with the Raleigh-to-Wake Forest segment.
NCDOT officials say the funding delay is procedural and expect paperwork to be finalized in the coming weeks. The S-Line would significantly shorten East Coast Amtrak travel times and eventually add stations in towns like Wake Forest and Apex. The state has seen record rail ridership recently, underscoring growing demand for passenger service.
Landmark downtown BBQ joint sells property 🐷
After 87 years in Downtown Raleigh, Clyde Cooper’s Barbeque has sold its property at 327 S. Wilmington St. for $2.24 million to Eric Zheng and Jinxia Dong, owners of Hibachi 88. Zheng plans to lease the space back to Clyde Cooper’s for six months before remodeling it into a new Hibachi 88 location, expected to open in April 2026.
The future of Clyde Cooper’s remains uncertain, though owner Debbie Holt had previously shared intentions to move the restaurant due to concerns over downtown’s post-pandemic recovery. Zheng sees the downtown location as a strategic move to grow his brand and attract foot traffic from events in the area.
Raleigh’s most unique hotel to stay 🏨
The iconic round Holiday Inn building in Downtown Raleigh will remain a part of the skyline, but with a new identity. The hotel at 320 Hillsborough St. is being converted into a Hotel Indigo, a boutique brand under IHG Hotels & Resorts.
Downtown fixture won’t be torn down
This marks a major shift from the owner's previous plans to demolish the building for a 20-story mixed-use tower. Renovations are set to begin soon, with financing expected to close this month and construction fencing going up. Once complete, it will be one of only three Hotel Indigo locations in North Carolina.
WHAT’S HAPPENING THIS WEEKEND
🎉 Events This Weekend
The Soccer Tournament (TST) – $1 Million 7v7 World Championship
📍 WakeMed Soccer Park, Cary
🗓️ Wednesday–Monday, June 4–9
🎟️ Tickets start at $20; Buy TicketsGipson Play Plaza Ribbon Cutting
📍 Dorothea Dix Park
🗓️ Friday, June 7 | 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM⏰ Park opens at 8 AM on Saturday + Sunday
🎟️ Free
Celebrate the opening of Raleigh’s 18.5-acre play plaza featuring gardens, public art, and adventure play areas.First Friday at The Times: June 2025
📍 The Raleigh Times Bar
🗓️ Friday, June 7 | 7:00 PM – 11:00 PM
🎟️ Free
A lively night of drinks, art, and music in downtown Raleigh’s most iconic newspaper-turned-bar.Forever Clean 165
📍 Wake County Speedway
🗓️ Friday, June 7 | 7:00 PM
🏁 Local stock‑car racing under the lights.🎟️ Ticketed
NC Courage vs. Kansas City Current
📍 WakeMed Soccer Park, Cary
🗓️ Friday, June 7 | 7:00 PM🎟️ Ticketed
NWSL home matchup.Oak City Cigar Festival
📍 Raleigh Convention Center
🗓️ Friday–Sunday, June 7–9
🎟️ TicketedRaleigh International Food Festival
📍 Fayetteville Street, Downtown Raleigh
🗓️ Saturday, June 8 | 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
🎟️ Free
Enjoy international cuisines, music, dancing, and family-friendly fun at this popular multicultural event.Luke Bryan: Mind of a Country Boy Tour
📍 Coastal Credit Union Music Park at Walnut Creek, Raleigh
🗓️ Saturday, June 8 | 7:00 PM
🎟️ Ticketed
🎤 Country superstar Luke Bryan brings his high-energy show to Raleigh with special guests George Birge, Larry Fleet, and Chayce Beckham.NC Collectors Roadshow
📍 NC State Fairgrounds – Exposition Center
🗓️ Saturday & Sunday, June 8–9
⏰ Saturday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM | Sunday: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
🎟️ Free
Browse sports cards, comics, coins, antiques, and rare finds from vendors across the region.Wu-Tang Forever: The Final Chapter
📍 Lenovo Center
🗓️ Saturday, June 8 | 8:00 PM
🎟️ Ticketed
Hip-hop legends take the stage for a farewell show in their final tour.New City Church – Sunday Worship Service
📍 6904 Glenwood Ave, Raleigh
🗓️ Sunday, June 9 | 10:00 AM
🙌 A welcoming, gospel‑centered church for the whole family.
HAPPENING RIGHT OUTSIDE OF RALEIGH
🎉 Festivals & Family-Friendly Events
Cary
Bands, Bites, and Boats
📍 Bond Park Boathouse
🗓️ Friday, June 6 | 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
🎶 Enjoy live music, food trucks, and after-hours boat rentals on Bond Lake.The Cary Cup Soccer Tournament
📍 WakeMed Soccer Park - Cary
🗓️ Wednesday–Sunday, June 4-9
⚽ Inaugural 7v7 youth soccer tournament with a festival atmosphereDowntown Cary Treasure Hunt – Walking Team Scavenger Hunt
📍 Downtown Cary
🗓️ Saturday, June 7 | 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
🧭 Explore downtown Cary with this interactive scavenger hunt.
Apex
Apex Farmers Market
📍 The Depot, 220 N. Salem Street
🗓️ Saturday, June 7 | 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
🥕 Shop local produce, baked goods, and crafts.
Wake Forest
National Trails Day 5K/3K
📍 E. Carroll Joyner Park
🗓️ Saturday, June 7 | Check-in at 7:00 AM
🏃♀️ Family-friendly walk/run event celebrating National Trails Day.Cars and Carnivores 3rd Annual Street Festival
📍 339 Brooks St, Wake Forest, NC
🗓️ Saturday, June 7 | 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
🚗 Classic car show with food trucks and live music.
Holly Springs
Holly Springs Farmers Market
📍 300 W Ballentine St, Holly Springs, NC
🗓️ Saturday, June 7 | 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
🥕 Fresh produce, local goods, and live music.Holly Springs Salamanders vs. Asheboro ZooKeepers
📍 Ting Stadium, Holly Springs
🗓️ Friday, June 7 | 6:30 PM
🗓️ Saturday, June 8 | 6:30 PM
🗓️ Sunday, June 9 | 5:40 PM
Garner
Friday Family Flicks: Sonic the Hedgehog 3
📍 Garner Performing Arts Center, Garner, NC
🗓️ Friday, June 6 | 7:00 PM
🎬 Free family movie night.
LIVE LOCAL MUSIC THIS WEEKEND
🎶 Raleigh Live Music – Friday, June 6
22 Strings Duo @ Salty Turtle Beer Co.
Neighborhood: Raleigh N @ Wakefield
Time: 6:00 PM – 9:00 PMThe Blinders @ The Raleigh Times Bar
Neighborhood: Raleigh DT @ Hargett St
Time: 7:00 PM – 10:00 PMGrace Lucia Lee @ Bowstring Pizza & Brewyard
Neighborhood: Raleigh DT @ Seaboard
Time: 7:00 PM – 10:00 PMRANDO @ Union Station Bar & Grill
Neighborhood: Raleigh DT @ Warehouse District
Time: 7:00 PM – 10:00 PMANJO Band @ Raleigh Beer Garden
Neighborhood: Raleigh DT @ Glenwood South
Time: 7:00 PM – 10:00 PMAriel Pocock & Chad Eby (featuring Gappin-Stanyhorn) @ Sharp 9 Gallery
Neighborhood: Raleigh N @ Millbrook
Time: 7:30 PM – 9:00 PMMike Gangi featuring Alex Shepard @ The Piper’s Tavern
Neighborhood: Raleigh N @ Durant
Time: 9:00 PM – 11:59 PMOtis Kings @ High Park Bar & Grill
Neighborhood: Raleigh N @ Iron Works District
Time: 8:00 PM – 11:00 PMFor the People @ Tap Yard Raleigh
Neighborhood: Raleigh N @ Iron Works District
Time: 8:00 PM – 11:00 PMKevin Lee @ North Ridge Pub
Neighborhood: Raleigh N @ Falls of Neuse
Time: 8:00 PM – 11:00 PMCrush @ Slim’s Dive Bar
Neighborhood: Raleigh DT
Time: 9:00 PM – 11:59 PMThe Amazing Lounge Lizards @ The Cardinal Bar
Neighborhood: Raleigh NW @ Creedmoor
Time: 9:00 PM – 11:59 PMNathan Wayne @ The Brick House
Neighborhood: Raleigh N @ US401 / NC55
Time: 9:00 PM – 11:59 PMDJ Nick Driver @ The Backyard Bar
Neighborhood: Raleigh NW @ US401 / Action
Time: 10:00 PM – 11:59 PM
🎶 Raleigh Live Music – Saturday, June 7
International Food/Music Fest @ City Plaza Stage
Neighborhood: Raleigh DT @ Fayetteville St
Time: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PMBella G @ The Preserve at Smith Creek
Neighborhood: Raleigh NW @ Bruce / Gresham
Time: 12:00 PM – 2:00 PMTrippin’ Breakers Band @ Scooter’s Bar & Grill (25th Allstar Ride for Life)
Neighborhood: Raleigh N @ Atlantic / Millbrook
Time: 1:00 PM – 4:00 PMSteel County Express @ Kings
Neighborhood: Raleigh DT
Time: 4:00 PM – 6:00 PMYouth Fountain, Sad Park, Good Terms @ Kings
Neighborhood: Raleigh DT @ Warehouse District
Time: 6:00 PM – 9:00 PMForest Rising @ Saints & Scholars Pub
Neighborhood: Raleigh N @ Six Forks / Millbrook
Time: 7:00 PM – 10:00 PMRobert Hunter @ The Mason Jar Lager Company
Neighborhood: Raleigh NW @ Creedmoor
Time: 7:00 PM – 10:00 PMEric Tubbs @ The Cardinal Bar
Neighborhood: Raleigh N @ Glenwood / Five Points
Time: 8:00 PM – 11:00 PMDJ Purify @ The Backyard Bar
Neighborhood: Raleigh W @ US64W / Action
Time: 8:00 PM – 11:59 PM
RETRO PIC OF THE WEEK
Fayetteville Street in downtown Raleigh, 1962.
WEEKEND WEATHER
Friday
88 🌡️ 70 | 🌤️ | 20%
Saturday
90 🌡️ 69 | ⛈️ | 50%
Sunday
87 🌡️ 68 | ⛈️ | 70%
LOCAL SPORTS
⚾️ College Baseball – NCAA Super Regionals
Both Duke and UNC have advanced to the super regionals and will play host this weekend for their respective games. Winners will advance to the College World Series.
UNC vs. Arizona
📍 Boshamer Stadium, Chapel Hill
🗓️ Friday, June 7 | 12:00 PM
🗓️ Saturday, June 8 | 12:00 PM
🗓️ Sunday, June 9 | TBD (if necessary)
The Tar Heels host Arizona in a best-of-three series for a spot in the College World Series.Duke vs. Murray State
📍 Jack Coombs Field, Durham
🗓️ Friday, June 7 | 1:00 PM
🗓️ Saturday, June 8 | 12:00 PM
🗓️ Sunday, June 9 | TBD (if necessary)
The Blue Devils host Murray State in Durham to continue their postseason run.
⚾️ Baseball
Durham Bulls @ Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp
📍 Away Games
🗓️ Friday, June 7 | 7:05 PM
🗓️ Saturday, June 8 | 6:35 PM
🗓️ Sunday, June 9 | 3:05 PM
Triple-A baseball on the road in Florida.
⚽ Soccer
NC Courage vs. Kansas City Current
📍 WakeMed Soccer Park, Cary
🗓️ Friday, June 7 | 7:00 PM
NWSL home matchup.North Carolina FC @ Union Omaha
📍 Away Game
🗓️ Saturday, June 8 | 8:00 PM
USL League One action as NCFC visits Nebraska.
THANKS!
Thanks for reading the Raleigh Rundown today. If you found something useful, please share it with someone who is pregnant. 🤰
How was today's newsletter? 📧
ADVERTISE IN THE RALEIGH RUNDOWN
