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Local Upcoming Events in Wake County, NC
NOCAP - BEFORE I DISAPPEAR AGAIN TOUR
Join NOCAP at The Ritz in Raleigh on January 22, 2025, for an unforgettable performance.
Nixon, Williams & Gage
Experience Nixon, Williams & Gage at the Wake Forest Listening Room on January 24, 2025.
070 Shake: The Petrichor Tour 2025
Catch 070 Shake live at The Ritz in Raleigh on January 25, 2025.
An Evening with Johnny Burgin
Enjoy a performance by Johnny Burgin at the Wake Forest Listening Room on January 31, 2025.
Mary J. Blige Concert
The renowned singer performs live on January 31, 2025, at the Lenovo Center.
What We Leave Behind Developmental Reading
A staged reading of a new musical in development, offering audiences a chance to provide feedback. Dates: January 24 and 25. Location: TR Studio, Theatre Raleigh Arts Center, 6638 Old Wake Forest Rd., Raleigh, NC 27616.
What We Leave Behind – Developmental Reading
A new musical exploring the impact of chronic illness on a family. Staged readings on January 24–25, 2025, at Theatre Raleigh's Studio.
Travis: Raze The Bar Tour
Don't miss Travis live at The Ritz in Raleigh on January 21, 2025.
Paint Me This House of Love
A play presented by Burning Coal Theatre Company. Dates: Now – February 16. Location: Murphey School Auditorium, 224 Polk St., Raleigh, NC 27604.
National Music Theater Foundry
Development of a new musical over two weeks, culminating in staged readings for public audiences in January 2025. Specific dates and location are to be announced.
Triangle African American Theater Preview ’25
Showcasing upcoming African American plays and musicals with dramatic readings and songs. Scheduled for January 19, 2025, at Raleigh Little Theatre.
Here are some live music events scheduled in Wake County, North Carolina, for January 2025:
Travis: Raze The Bar Tour
Don't miss Travis live at The Ritz in Raleigh on January 21, 2025.
NOCAP - BEFORE I DISAPPEAR AGAIN TOUR
Join NOCAP at The Ritz in Raleigh on January 22, 2025, for an unforgettable performance.
070 Shake: The Petrichor Tour 2025
Catch 070 Shake live at The Ritz in Raleigh on January 25, 2025.
Mary J. Blige: The For My Fans Tour
Experience the legendary Mary J. Blige at PNC Arena in Raleigh on January 31, 2025.
Harry Potter™ in Concert
Experience the magic of Harry Potter with live orchestral accompaniment on January 31 and February 1, 2025, at the Durham Performing Arts Center (DPAC).
Broadway in Love
A musical concert featuring Broadway actress Libby Servais and her husband, Stephan Stubbins, performing popular love songs from Broadway musicals. The event is on February 14, 2025, at 6:30 PM at the Wake Forest Renaissance Centre, located at 405 Brooks St., Wake Forest, NC 27587.
Schoolhouse Rock Live! Jr.
Presented by Raleigh Little Theatre, this family-friendly musical is based on the classic educational cartoon series. The show is scheduled for May 2025 in the outdoor amphitheater at Raleigh Little Theatre, located at 301 Pogue St., Raleigh, NC 27607.
Waitress
Presented by Theatre Raleigh, this beloved Broadway musical features music and lyrics by Sara Bareilles. The story centers on Jenna, a baker who dreams of escaping her small town and rocky marriage. Performances are scheduled from August 6 to 24, 2025, at the De Ann S. Jones Theatre, located at 6638 Old Wake Forest Rd., Raleigh, NC 27616. Single tickets will go on sale February 24, 2025.
Once on This Island
Also by Theatre Raleigh, this Tony Award-winning musical tells the story of a Caribbean island girl on a journey of love and resilience. Performances are from November 12 to 23, 2025, at the De Ann S. Jones Theatre. Single tickets will be available starting February 24, 2025.
Please verify event details and ticket availability with the respective venues or event organizers, as schedules are subject to change.
Where to Enjoy Blue Grass Music Locally
Fireside Collective
Scheduled for Saturday, February 1, 2025, at the Lincoln Theatre in Raleigh. For ticket information, please visit the theater's official website.
Fireside Collective
Scheduled for Saturday, February 1, 2025, at the Lincoln Theatre in Raleigh. For ticket information, please visit the theater's official website.
Arkansauce
Set to perform on Wednesday, February 5, 2025, at The Pour House Music Hall in Raleigh. Details and ticket prices are available on the venue's website.
Town Mountain
Performing on Saturday, February 7, 2025, at Cat’s Cradle in Carrboro. Ticket information can be found on the venue's official site.
Henhouse Prowlers
Scheduled for Saturday, February 8, 2025, at Community Church in Chapel Hill. For tickets and pricing, please check the church's event page.
Sam Bush
Performing on Saturday, February 15, 2025, at Lincoln Theatre in Raleigh. Ticket details are available on the theater's official website.
Lonesome River Band at Lorraine's Coffee House and Music
Date & Time: February 21, 2025, 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM Location: Lorraine's Coffee House and Music, 101 Timber Pointe Ln., Garner, NC 27529 Admission: $30–$40
Big Lick Bluegrass Festival
Happening from April 10-12, 2025, in Oakboro, NC, this festival showcases a lineup of bluegrass bands and artists, providing a platform for both traditional and contemporary bluegrass music.
MerleFest
Taking place from April 24-27, 2025, at Wilkes Community College in Wilkesboro, NC, MerleFest is one of the largest music festivals in the United States, celebrating "traditional plus" music, including bluegrass, folk, and Americana. Founded by Doc Watson in 1988, the festival honors his son, Eddy Merle Watson. While not in Wake County, it's a significant event for bluegrass enthusiasts in the region.
Biscuits & Banjos Festival
Set for April 25-27, 2025, in Durham, NC, this festival features performances by artists like Rhiannon Giddens, Carolina Chocolate Drops, and Taj Mahal. It's a celebration of bluegrass and related genres, offering a rich musical experience for attendees.
Cherokee Bluegrass Festival
Scheduled for June 5-7, 2025, in Cherokee, NC, this festival features performances by bands like Authentic Unlimited, The Kody Norris Show, and The Malpass Brothers. It's a notable event for bluegrass fans in the region.
Raleigh Wide Open Bluegrass Festival
Scheduled for October 3-4, 2025, in downtown Raleigh, this newly reimagined festival continues the tradition of bluegrass celebrations in the area. Organized by Pine Cone and the City of Raleigh, the event will feature performances by renowned bluegrass artists, local musicians, and offer various activities for attendees. The festival aims to create a cultural experience that reflects the city of Raleigh.
Raleigh Wide Open Bluegrass Festival
Scheduled for October 3-4, 2025, in downtown Raleigh, this newly reimagined festival continues the tradition of bluegrass celebrations in the area. Organized by Pine Cone and the City of Raleigh, the event will feature performances by renowned bluegrass artists and local musicians and offer various activities for attendees. The festival aims to create a cultural experience that reflects the city of Raleigh.
Please verify event details and ticket availability with the respective organizers, as schedules are subject to change.
Live Music Venues
The Ritz (Raleigh)
Popular for live concerts featuring national and local acts.
Offers a spacious indoor venue with excellent sound quality.
Lincoln Theatre (Raleigh)
Known for hosting live music performances, including rock, indie, and acoustic shows.
Features both standing-room and seated events.
Kings Raleigh (Raleigh)
An intimate venue with a focus on up-and-coming local artists.
Also hosts themed events and DJ nights.
The Pour House Music Hall (Raleigh)
Specializes in showcasing local bands and artists.
Has a relaxed atmosphere with a focus on craft beer.
Comedy Clubs
Goodnights Comedy Club
Location: 401 Woodburn Rd, Raleigh, NC 27605
Shows: Features a mix of local, regional, and nationally known comedians.
Cost: Ticket prices range from $15 to $30, depending on the show and seating. A two-item minimum purchase is required per person in the showroom.
Website: Goodnights Comedy Club
Raleigh Improv
Location: 201 Park at North Hills Street, Suite 108, Raleigh, NC 27609 (in Parkside Town Commons, Cary, NC)
Shows: National headliners, local talent, and special events.
Cost: Ticket prices generally range from $20 to $50. A two-item minimum is also required.
Website: Raleigh Improv
Comedy Worx
Location: 3801 Hillsborough St, Raleigh, NC 27607
Shows: Specializes in improv comedy, offering short-form and long-form improv, as well as sketch comedy.
Cost: Ticket prices generally range from $10 to $15.
Website: ComedyWorx
Neptune's Parlour
Location: 14 W Martin St, Raleigh, NC 27601
Shows: Known for its comedy shows along with karaoke, dance parties, and live DJ events.
Cost: The cover charge for comedy events is typically $5-$15, depending on the event.
Website: Neptune's Parlour
The Carolina Theatre of Durham
Location: 309 W Morgan St, Durham, NC 27701
Shows: Features stand-up comedy performances as part of its broader programming, which also includes indie films and live performances.
Cost: Ticket prices vary by event but generally range from $20 to $45.
Website: Carolina Theatre
Durham Performing Arts Center (DPAC)
Location: 123 Vivian St, Durham, NC 27701
Shows: Hosts national comedy acts as well as Broadway productions and concerts.
Cost: Ticket prices vary by performance, typically ranging from $25 to $100 or more depending on the comedian and seating choice.
Website: Durham Performing Arts Center
For the most accurate pricing and to check specific showtimes, please visit the clubs’ websites or contact them directly, as prices and schedules can change.
Dance and Nightlife
Neptunes Parlour (Raleigh)
A cozy basement bar with DJs spinning a mix of hip-hop, funk, and electronic music.
Perfect for dancing and late-night entertainment.
Alchemy (Raleigh)
A modern nightclub with upscale decor and guest DJs.
Popular for themed dance parties.
Clockwork (Raleigh)
Retro-themed lounge offering cocktails and a small dance floor.
The Architect Bar & Social House (Raleigh)
Combines a classy bar with a hidden dance club in the basement.
Here are some local entertainment clubs in Wake County, NC, that offer a variety of activities, from live music to comedy and nightlife:
More Live Music Venues
The Ritz (Raleigh)
Popular for live concerts featuring national and local acts.
Offers a spacious indoor venue with excellent sound quality.
Lincoln Theatre (Raleigh)
Known for hosting live music performances, including rock, indie, and acoustic shows.
Features both standing-room and seated events.
Kings Raleigh (Raleigh)
An intimate venue with a focus on up-and-coming local artists.
Also hosts themed events and DJ nights.
The Pour House Music Hall (Raleigh)
Specializes in showcasing local bands and artists.
Has a relaxed atmosphere with a focus on craft beer.
Karaoke and Game Nights
Boxcar Bar + Arcade (Raleigh)
Offers arcade games, skee-ball, and karaoke nights.
Fun for both casual outings and group events.
The Blind Barbour (Raleigh)
Known for trivia nights, occasional live music, and karaoke.
The Ultimate Country Tribute to Eric Church by Tim Gleason, featuring Tennessee Whiskey Chicago, is scheduled for Thursday, January 23, 2025, at 7:00 PM at the Lincoln Theatre in Raleigh, North Carolina. Ticket prices and availability are not specified in the provided information. For the most accurate and up-to-date details, please visit the Lincoln Theatre's official website or contact their box office directly.
Smooth Jazz and R&B with a Splash of Comedy is scheduled for Saturday, January 25, 2025, from 8:00 PM to 11:00 PM at the Garner Performing Arts Center, located at 742 West Garner Road, Garner, NC 27529.
General Admission: $35.00 (plus a $4.19 fee)
VIP Front Row Seats (First 5 rows): $45.00 (plus a $4.87 fee)
B.E.S.T. Conference 2025
Venue: McKimmon Center
Location: 1101 Gorman St, Raleigh, NC 27606
Date & Time: Thursday, January 30, 2025, at 8:00 AM
A conference focusing on business, education, science, and technology, featuring keynote speakers and workshops.
The 2025 Wake Forest Film Festival is scheduled for Saturday, March 1, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM at the Wake Forest Renaissance Centre, located at 405 S. Brooks St., Wake Forest, NC 27587. General admission tickets are priced at $25 plus tax and can be purchased online.
The High Kings, Irish Folk Band
The High Kings, an acclaimed Irish folk band, are scheduled to perform in Raleigh, North Carolina, on April 30, 2025, at 7:30 PM. The concert will take place at the Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts, specifically in the Fletcher Opera Theater. Tickets for this event are available through various platforms, including Ticketmaster. Prices start at approximately $35, with additional fees possible.
2025 Wake Forest Film Festival
Celebrate the art of film at the Wake Forest Film Festival on March 1, 2025, from 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM at the Wake Forest Renaissance Centre for the Arts. Tickets are available for $25.
Carolina Hurricanes vs. Columbus Blue Jackets
Catch the NHL game on January 23, 2025, at the Lenovo Center.
Comedian Cathy Ladman
Enjoy a night of laughter with comedian Cathy Ladman on Saturday, January 25, 2025, at 7:30 PM at the Wake Forest Renaissance Centre. Please note that this event is sold out.
Cinch World's Toughest Rodeo
Venue: PNC Arena
Location: 1400 Edwards Mill Rd, Raleigh, NC 27607
Date & Time: January 26, 2025
A family-friendly rodeo event featuring bull riding, saddle bronc riding, and more.
Pub Picks with Hachette Book Group!
Venue: Quail Ridge Books
Location: 4209-100 Lassiter Mill Rd, Raleigh, NC 27609
Date & Time: Wednesday, February 12, 2025, at 7:00 PM
An evening with Hachette Book Group presenting upcoming book releases and author discussions.
Glow in the Dark Dodgeball
Venue: Tarboro Road Community Center
Location: 121 N Tarboro St, Raleigh, NC 27610
Date & Time: Saturday, February 15, 2025, at 10:00 AM
A fun, family-friendly event featuring glow-in-the-dark dodgeball games.
2025 Wake Forest Film Festival
Celebrate the art of film at the Wake Forest Film Festival on March 1, 2025, from 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM at the Wake Forest Renaissance Centre for the Arts. Tickets are available for $25.
Women in Data Science (WiDS) Raleigh @ NC State
Venue: James B. Hunt Jr. Library, Duke Energy Hall
Location: 1070 Partners Way, Raleigh, NC 27606
Date & Time: Wednesday, March 5, 2025, at 9:00 AM
A conference highlighting women in data science, featuring talks, workshops, and networking opportunities.
Friday Night on White
Enjoy live music, food trucks, and more at the popular Friday Night on White event in downtown Wake Forest. This event takes place from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM on the second Friday of each month from April through September.
Here are some upcoming events in Wake Forest, NC:
Comedian Cathy Ladman
Enjoy a night of laughter with comedian Cathy Ladman on Saturday, January 25, 2025, at 7:30 PM at the Wake Forest Renaissance Centre. Please note that this event is sold out.
The Debbie Liske Band Performance
Experience live music with The Debbie Liske Band on Friday, January 17, 2025, at 7:30 PM at the Wake Forest Listening Room. Doors open at 6:45 PM. Tickets are priced at $13.56.
2025 Wake Forest Film Festival
Celebrate the art of film at the Wake Forest Film Festival on March 1, 2025, from 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM at the Wake Forest Renaissance Centre for the Arts. Tickets are available for $25.
Friday Night on White
Enjoy live music, food trucks, and more at the popular Friday Night on White event in downtown Wake Forest. This event takes place from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM on the second Friday of each month from April through September.
Forest Fest
A family-friendly event featuring various activities, vendors, and entertainment in downtown Wake Forest. Scheduled for Saturday, April 26, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM.
Calvin Jones House Guided Tours
Join guided tours of the historic Calvin Jones House at the Wake Forest Historical Museum every Friday at 2:00 PM.
Visit a Park or Greenway
Lake Johnson Park: Perfect for a scenic walk or bike ride.
Dorothea Dix Park: Enjoy the open spaces and holiday decor in some areas.
Neuse River Greenway Trail: Great for a peaceful nature outing.
Check Out a Local Festival
North Carolina Chinese Lantern Festival (Outside the Paid Section): While tickets are required for entry, you can view some of the lights from outside the venue at Koka Booth Amphitheatre.
Art Walk or Gallery Visit
Check out Downtown Raleigh's public art installations or visit galleries like CAM Raleigh, which sometimes offers free admission.
Window Shopping at Markets or Malls
Visit The Village District or Downtown Wake Forest for festive window displays and holiday markets.
Library Events
Visit your local library for free holiday story time sessions or DIY craft activities. Check the Wake County Libraries' website for schedules.
Skate the Square at Fenton
Enjoy ice skating at Fenton Square, open through February 9, 2025.
Free Community Events
Self-Guided History Tour
Explore Raleigh's historical landmarks like the State Capitol or Historic Oakwood Cemetery for a touch of local history.
Volunteer Opportunities
Spend some time giving back by volunteering at a local food bank, shelter, or community event. It’s free and rewarding!
Visit a Park or Greenway
Lake Johnson Park: Perfect for a scenic walk or bike ride.
Dorothea Dix Park: Enjoy the open spaces and holiday decor in some areas.
Neuse River Greenway Trail: Great for a peaceful nature outing.
North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences
Explore exhibits on the natural world, including live animals and interactive displays. Open daily with free admission.
North Carolina Museum of Art
Visit diverse art collections and enjoy the Ann and Jim Goodnight Museum Park's outdoor sculptures and trails. Open Tuesday through Sunday; admission is free.
American Tobacco Trail
A 22.6-mile rail-trail open to walkers, runners, and cyclists. The Wake County portion offers scenic views and is accessible year-round.
Artspace
A visual arts center with rotating exhibitions and open artist studios. Open Tuesday through Saturday; admission is free.
Lake Crabtree County Park
Engage in hiking, biking, and picnicking along the lakeshore. Open daily from 8:00 AM to sunset; admission is free.
MLK Community Celebration
Honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. at the Wake Forest MLK Celebration on January 23, 2025, at 6:30 PM.
Notable historical sites in Wake County, NC, for you to explore:
North Carolina State Capitol
Location: 1 E Edenton St, Raleigh, NC 27601
Description: Completed in 1840, this Greek Revival-style building is a National Historic Landmark and once housed the state legislature.
Hours: Open Tuesday–Saturday, 9 a.m.–5 p.m.
Mordecai Historic Park
Location: 1 Mimosa St, Raleigh, NC 27604
Description: Features the Mordecai House, Raleigh's oldest house on its original foundation, and Andrew Johnson's birthplace.
Hours: Guided tours available Tuesday–Sunday.
Historic Oakwood
Location: Oakwood Ave, Raleigh, NC 27601
Description: A 19th-century neighborhood with Victorian-era homes and the Historic Oakwood Cemetery. Self-guided walking tours are popular.
Historic Yates Mill County Park
Location: 4620 Lake Wheeler Rd, Raleigh, NC 27603
Description: Home to the last operating water-powered gristmill in Wake County, with nature trails and guided tours.
Hours: Grounds open daily, mill tours by appointment.
Joel Lane Museum House
Location: 728 W Hargett St, Raleigh, NC 27603
Description: Known as the “Birthplace of Raleigh,” this 18th-century house belonged to Joel Lane, who helped establish the city.
Hours: Open Wednesday–Saturday for tours.
Historic Oak View County Park
Location: 4028 Carya Dr, Raleigh, NC 27610
Description: A 19th-century farmstead featuring historic buildings, a cotton museum, and walking trails.
Hours: Open daily, with visitor center hours Tuesday–Sunday.
Wake Forest Historical Museum
Location: 414 N Main St, Wake Forest, NC 27587
Description: Highlights the history of Wake Forest and Wake Forest University, housed in the 1820s Calvin Jones House.
Hours: Open Tuesday–Sunday.
North Carolina Museum of History
Location: 5 E Edenton St, Raleigh, NC 27601
Description: Showcases exhibits on the state's history, from early settlements to the present.
Hours: Open daily.
Tucker House
Location: 418 N Person St, Raleigh, NC 27601
Description: A Colonial Revival home built in 1914, used as a community meeting space and available for tours.
St. Agnes Hospital
Location: Saint Augustine’s University Campus, Raleigh, NC 27610
Description: A historic African American hospital from the early 20th century, preserved as a landmark.
Pullen Park (Raleigh)
Established in 1887, it’s one of the oldest public amusement parks in the U.S.
Includes a historic carousel and miniature train.
Pope House Museum (Raleigh)
The only African American house museum in North Carolina.
Built by Dr. Manassa Thomas Pope, a prominent African American physician and civic leader.
Calvin Jones House/Wake Forest Historical Museum (Wake Forest)
Once the home of Dr. Calvin Jones, a prominent figure in Wake Forest's history.
The museum showcases artifacts and exhibits about the town's past.
These sites provide a window into Wake County’s rich history and are great for a mix of educational and recreational experiences!
The Pour House Music Hall
Location: 224 S Blount St, Raleigh, NC 27601
Live Music: The Pour House is known for its local bands and acoustic performances. Check out the lineup for this weekend on their website for artists and times.
Red Hat Amphitheater
Location: 500 S McDowell St, Raleigh, NC 27601
Live Music: While the amphitheater may have limited shows in winter, some events like local music showcases might be held in surrounding areas. Visit the venue's website or check their social media for any announcements.
The Raleigh Times Bar
Location: 14 E Hargett St, Raleigh, NC 27601
Live Music: A local favorite for casual bar vibes and live acoustic performances from local artists.
The Lincoln Theatre
Location: 126 E Cabarrus St, Raleigh, NC 27601
Live Music: Hosting a variety of performances, including rock, indie, and blues. Check their calendar for this weekend's events.
Cotten’s Bar & Grill
Location: 216 E 5th St, Wake Forest, NC 27587
Live Music: Enjoy local bands and artists performing a range of genres, including rock, country, and blues.
The Wye Hill Kitchen & Brewing
Location: 3801 Hillsborough St, Raleigh, NC 27607
Live Music: A local brewery offering live music performances, often featuring acoustic sets and local talent.
Standard Beer & Wine
Location: 2036 Chapel Hill Rd, Raleigh, NC 27607
Live Music: A relaxed spot that often features local acoustic performers on the weekends.
For exact times and artists, you may want to check the specific venues' websites or social media pages for updated schedules and reservations. Enjoy the music!
If we have not listed your event, please feel free to contact us at [email protected] to request a free listing on our event board.