Annual Krispy Kreme Challenge - February
The Krispy Kreme Challenge is an annual charity event in which participants run a 5 miles road course leading to a Krispy Kreme Doughnuts shop, eat one dozen doughnuts, and run back to the finish line in under 1 hour.
Annual Raleigh St. Patrick's Day Parade & Festival - March
Raleigh has been celebrating St. Patrick's Day in style since 1983. This annual festival has grown into a citywide event with parades, food, live entertainment, and plenty of family-fun activities.
Full Frame Documentary Festival - April
This annual International event is a celebration of non-fiction films. For four days, you can network with filmmakers and film professionals and view some of the cutting edge documentaries of this time.
Raleigh Rock n' Roll Marathon - April
Compete in this annual marathon, or come by to see the runners in action. Lined with stages and live music, this marathon is exciting from start to finish.
Dreamville Festival - April
The second annual Dreamville Festival will once again provide a thoughtfully-curated, multi-stage music event from J. Cole, who himself was raised in nearby Fayetteville, North Carolina. The festivals itself aims to provide a unique opportunity for locals and traveling visitors alike to gather and enjoy a music celebration in one of Raleigh’s most beautiful and historic locations, Dorothea Dix Park – Raleigh’s largest city park with over 300 acres of public greenspace.
World Beer Festival - April and October
Twice annually, taste the best beer the world has to offer. With over 300 beers from 100 breweries, this beer festival is a can't-miss event. Grab your tasting glass, and please your palate at the World Beer Festival.
Artsplosure - May
Also known as the Raleigh Arts Festival, this large art and culture event spans two days and includes artists, vendors, and live performers and musicians.
Carolina Hurricanes at PNC Arena - May onwards
The NHL's Carolina Hurricanes are often considered a serious Stanley Cup Championship contender and come playoff time, sold-out crowds get loud at Raleigh's PNC Arena.
IRONMAN 70.3 - June
Whether you're participant or spectator, this Ironman course contains some of Raleigh's most famous landmarks.
Packapalooza - August
Each year, NC State throws an all-day block party at the end of Wolfpack Welcome Week. Enjoy great music and activities for the whole family.
World Bluegrass Festival - September
Held every September, this Bluegrass festival features three separate events: the IMBA Business Conference, International Bluegrass Music Awards, and Wide Open Bluegrass. Attend workshops, or enjoy live music at this four-day festival.
Hopscotch Music Festival - September
Bands from every genre come to Raleigh for this three-day festival. Spread out across the city, you can enjoy bands in numerous clubs and venues, and enjoy a long festival of music.
North Carolina State Fair - October
This 10-day fair in October has been a staple in Raleigh since 1853. Join us for a concert, fireworks, sports stunts, competitions, and food galore.
First Night Raleigh - December
Every year, this New Year's Celebration brings visitors and residents together to bring in a new year in style.