February Events: What’s Happening in Raleigh (includes Black History)

Hello friends! Welcome to February in Raleigh – the month of LOVE (Valentine’s Day) and the time to celebrate Black History. We’ll list events for both below!

There are plenty of fun things to do in Raleigh this month, including the much-anticipated Stadium Series hosted this year by Raleigh at NC State University’s Carter-Finley Stadium.

We are doing our best to share with you what Raleigh events are happening each month. When we say Raleigh, we may also include events throughout Wake County and the Triangle region!

The beauty of living in Raleigh is we’re within easy access to incredible places, events, and Raleigh attractions within a 30-minute drive. That’s why we love it.

So, if we find a cool event in Chapel Hill or Durham that we think it’s worth driving to, we’ll share it so you can continue to enjoy this vibrant Raleigh lifestyle. Never let an imaginary boundary line spoil your fun!

Having said that, we cannot include everything, and we don’t always know everything that’s going on, so if you have any suggestions on cool events in Raleigh, leave them in the comment section at the bottom!

We also update our email community every Friday with more Raleigh events, news, and cool finds and so be sure to join us. It’s free and the best way to keep connected. Pop your name in the form below and receive our free PDF checklist of the top festivals and events in Raleigh.

2023 Raleigh Festival & Events Bucket List

Plan for a fun-filled year!

JOIN THE COMMUNITY

We’ll also sometimes share personal things happening for our family during the month. Simply because our community love following what we are doing (live on Instagram). Our lives are dedicated to exploring, discovering cool things to do in Raleigh and just living large.

Featured Event: LuminoCity Festival Pullen Park

Paid Listing

• Where: Pullen Park, Raleigh
• When: February 23 – April 9
• Cost:
  • $25 (age 12+)
  • $18 (age 3-12)
  • $2 amusement ride
• Purchase Tickets

Immerse yourself in an illuminating world of art and color. LuminoCity heads to Raleigh for the first time, lighting up Pullen Park for the next 8 weeks.

Follow Lumi, the magical lightbulb, through luminated worlds to discover glowing art installations, motion dinosaurs, displays, the historical carousel ride, and cherry blossom festival at night. Bring your family, friends, camera, and best selfie smile!

Purchase Tickets Here

Black History Month

February is Black History Month. It’s celebrated throughout Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill, and the rest of the Triangle, with festivals, storytelling, performances, lectures and much more.

This month presents a great opportunity to explore the many Black American heritage sites and historical attractions in Raleigh. Here is an in-depth post sharing Black history and cultural experiences in Raleigh. For now, here are a couple:

• Estey Hall: is the oldest standing building at Shaw University and the first women’s dormitory constructed for the purpose of educating African American women in the USA.
• Mordecai Historic Park shares the stories of the 200 African American slaves who lived on Mordecai Plantation between the American Revolution and the Civil War.
• The Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Gardens are a key stop on the U.S. Civil Rights Trail and is also the first public park in the USA solely devoted to Dr. King.
• Pope House Museum is the only African American house museum in the state of North Carolina. It offers a glimpse into the life of one of Raleigh’s most intriguing citizens, Dr. Manassa Thomas Pope, who was the only African American man to run for mayor of a Southern capital in the midst of the Jim Crow Era.
• North Carolina Museum of History has exhibits which share the African American story and their contributions to the history of North Carolina. “The Story of North Carolina” exhibit which includes a lunch counter from a 1960 Salisbury, N.C., sit-in during the American civil rights movement.

While we always recommend you support local black-owned businesses in the Triangle, make this the month you go the extra mile and consciously seek them out and show your support.

• Black Friday Market: This retail department store in the heart of downtown Raleigh allows black owned businesses, creators and artists to sell their products commission free under the one roof, or in their online store.
• Zen Succulent: Plant lovers rejoice with this modern terrarium and plant craft business full of unique greenery and handcrafted gifts from emerging makers. 
• Houseplant Hippie: is a cool mobile unit filled with plants. You’ll find Kay at many local markets. Even better have her consult with your home and help you create a plant oasis (with tips on how to keep them alive)
• Nashona is a fantastic new boutique store downtown filled with vibrant African fabrics and products handcrafted from Tanzania.
• No Woman No Girl: Fantastic local non-profit founded by Shirnetta J Harrell to provide essential items to those women and girls in our community at risk.
• Unorthodox Vintage: Vibrant and fun vintage and secondhand clothing store on Wilmington St, owned by Julian Jacobs and Alexandria Monet. Kalyra and I loved shopping here recently on a teen afternoon in Downtown Raleigh.

NC MLK Black History Month Parade, Feb 4, 2023

• Where: 3501 Fayetteville St Durham, NC 27707
• Time: 12pm
• Cost: Free

The 20th annual North Carolina MLK Black History Month Parade will feature DJs, Bounce Houses, Food Trucks, Vendors, Face Painting, and more, making this event “For the Entire Family For the Entire Day.” Parade starts at 12pm.

Living in Color art Exhibition Opening, Feb 4, 2023

• Where: Dorothea Dix Park – Chapel Event Center
• When:
  • Opening Ceremony: 1:30 – 3:30 pm
  •  Exhibit open through Sunday, February 26th, 2023. Hours are Saturday: 10am-4pm & Sunday 12-5pm.
• Website

A month-long display of visual art representing the experience of people of color living in the south with pieces from pieces by professional and student artists. The opening reception that will include drinks and light hors d’oeuvres, spoken word feature performance, a powerful 15-minute live stage play scene, and music.

United Strings of Color performs Stories from Africa & Americ, Feb 4, 2023

• Where: Halle Cultural Arts Center, Apex
• Time: 3-4pm
• Cost: Free
• Register here

The United Strings of Color was started in Raleigh, NC in 2018, as a project to address racial disparity in classical music through music education and community engagement. United Strings of Color features black youth musicians.

Talking Black in America – Roots – Documentary Film Screening, Feb 7, 2023

• Where: Auditorium, Hill Library NC State Campus, 2 Broughton Drive
  Campus Box 7111
• Time: 7-8pm
• Cost: Free

The third program in the Emmy Award winning TALKING BLACK IN AMERICA series. It’s a celebration of African American resiliency, creativity, and ingenuity, finding a connection of the spirit among the peoples and societies of West Africa and the African Diaspora.

Lift Every Voice: Black History Month Community Sing a Long, Feb 11, 2023

• Where: East Building, SECU Auditorium, NC Museum of Art
• When: 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
• Cost: Free
• Website:

A gathering of choirs, ensembles, and community participants from across the state that includes spirituals, ring shouts, and music reflective of the civil rights movement of the 1950s and 1960s as well as Black experience in the US.

Black History Trolley Tour, Feb 18, 2023

• Where: Mordecai Historic Park
• Time: 1pm, 2pm & 3pm
• Cost: $10
• Tickets

Learn more about African American heritage in Raleigh with this historic trolley tour that includes historic homes, schools, churches and businesses important to Raleigh’s African American history.

Sights and Sounds Concert Series: Imani Winds, Feb 26, 2023

• Where: East Building, North Carolina Museum of Art
• Time: 2pm-4pm
• Cost: $28 Members, $17 Students, $31 Nonmembers
• Website:

The twice Grammy-nominated Imani Winds appears at the NCMA as part of a Black History Month North Carolina Residency funded by the National Endowment for the Arts.

The program includes a Jessie Montgomery composition inspired by her great-grandfather’s migration from the American South to the North as well as socially conscious music by Andy Akiho designed to be performed both on the concert stage and in front of immigrant detention centers throughout the country.

Celebrate Black American contributions to the arts in Town of Cary

The Town of Cary is hosting a variety of programs that address the diverse experiences of the African Diaspora in the United States through film and the arts.

This year’s theme is Unsung Titans of the ’70s & ’80s, where you’ll take a fun trip back in time and see how some of these artists influenced the culture!

There’ll be drumming circles and storytelling from the Cary Youth Theater, symposiums and workshops, art and photography exhibits and a film festival at the Cary Theater. See all events here.

Week 1: Weds 1st – Sun 5th

Groundhog Day 2022 Feb 2, 2023

• Where: North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences
• Time: 10am-1pm
• Cost: free
• Website

There will not be a Groundhog Day Shadow Ceremony at the Museum this year, but you can visit the museum to learn about animals in winter, explore groundhog-related crafts and games, enjoy a live animal program, and more. Exhibition Opening Reception, Feb 2. 2023

• Where: Gregg Museum of Art and Design
• Time: 6pm-8pm
• Cost: Free
• Website

Opening reception to celebrate our first exhibitions of 2023 with hors d’oeuvres and live music.

Mlima’s Tale At Burning Coal, Feb 2-12, 2023

• Where: 224 Polk St, Raleigh, NC 27604
• Time: 7:30pm; 2pm on Sundays
• Cost: $20- $30
• Website

Conservationists and animal lovers will enjoy this theater production following the tusks of an elephant from poaching to the hands they are poached for. An important tale to help us all see the responsibility we have to stop this practice that is endangering one of planet Earth’s most magnificent creatures.

First Friday, Feb 3rd, 2023

• Where: Downtown Raleigh
• Time: Dusk onwards
• Free
• Website

First Friday is celebrated on the first Friday of each month at locations throughout Downtown Raleigh. Art galleries and studios are open late with rotating exhibits and artist talks. Exhibitors feature artists, music, and special offers. Retailers and restaurants can offer discounts and specials. There’s something for everyone.

• Current Wellness to kick off Black History Month with a yoga class, Black History themed mocktails and a live painting by Jonese Pipkin, the owner and creator behind Adieu Paintings.
• The Raleigh Wine Shop will have local artist, Micah Gaugh, displaying his artwork in the Green Room and around the shop. He’ll also be giving a live saxophone performance!
• DRINK on Glenwood Ave will have Winemaker Matt Nagy from Benevolent Neglect to discuss his wines – technical aspects and what music pairs with it…
• Designed for Joy offers tours of their studio on First Fridays where you can also shop their wonderful brand of leather handbags, jewelry and home décor in the Warehouse District.

Big Frosty Beer Festival, Feb 4, 2023

• Where: Raleigh Beer Garden
• Time: 12-4pm
• Cost: $40 (21+ event)
• Website

Gather in the Raleigh Beer Garden outdoor space to sample a wide variety of beer and cider from local, regional, & national breweries There will also be food and live music. Ticket price includes a complimentary sampling mug with unlimited samples. FairyTale Tea, Feb 4 & 5, 2023.

• Where: Marbles Kids Museum
• Time: 9:30am; 12:30pm; 3:30pm
• Cost: Members, $20; Non-Members, $25
• Website

Dress ups don’t have to end with Halloween. Grab your favorite pair of wings and sparkly crowns and gowns and head to Marbles for treats, activities, and enchanting encounters.

Krispy Kreme Challenge, February 4, 2023

• Where: Hillsborough St (NC State Bell Tower) to Krispy Kreme on N. Person St
• Time: TBD
• Website: KrispyKremeChallenge.com

The Krispy Kreme Challenge is one of the most unique things to do in Raleigh. All you have to do is run 5-miles in total (or walk) from the NC State University Belltower to the Krispy Kreme on N. Person Street. Take a quick pit stop there to eat a dozen doughnuts (or as many as you can), then run back!

During the old, fun days, the race would see about 8,000 people participate, many in costumes. Suitable for all ages and walking is also encouraged. Of course, devouring doughnuts is optional. This year, in 2023, it’s back after a few years of virtual participation!

Watch Our Krispy Kreme video from 2020:

Sporting Events this week

• NC State Men’s Basketball vs Florida State Feb 01; 9pm @ PNC
• NC State Men’s Basketball vs Georgia Tech Feb 04; 1pm @ PNC
• NC State Women’s Basketball vs. Virginia Tech Feb 6; 6pm @ Reynolds Coliseum

Week 2: mon 6th – sun 12th

This week we’ll be attending a preview of the new Sports and Social Bar at Fenton before zipping over to California to ride roller coasters at Knotts Berry Farm for ytravelblog.com

Grateful Dub – Reggae Infused Tribute to the Grateful Dead, Feb 7th

• Where: Lincoln Theatre
• Time: 8pm
• Cost: $14.50+
• Website

Dead Heads, break out the dreads. There’s more than one way to celebrate this iconic band from the free-loving hippies’ era. My favorite kind!

Dreamgirls by NC Theatre, Feb 7-12, 2023

• Where: Raleigh Memorial Auditorium
• Time: 7:30pm with additional 2pm shows on Sat & Sun
• Cost: $23+
• Website

Spanning from gospel, R&B, and smooth pop to the arrival of disco, this musical mirrors the glamorous and electrifying rise of groups like The Supremes, The Marvelettes, The Temptations and The Shirelles

Revolution: The Music of the Beatles, feb. 10 – 11, 2023

• Where: Meymandi Concert Hall at Duke Energy Center for the Performing Arts
• Time: Fri: 8pm; Sat 3pm &8pm
• Cost: $53+
• Website

A unique symphonic experience featuring guest vocalists and the Symphony performing restored orchestrations from the original sessions at Abbey Road—accompanied by rare and unseen photos of the band projected on the big screen.

Valentine’s Day Gala, Feb 11, 2023

• Where: Sheraton Raleigh Hotel
• Time: 6pm-10pm
• Cost: $89 – $199
• Tickets

Whether you’re single, a couple, or just want a night out with your friends, the Valentine’s Day Gala will show you a memorable time.

It’s a chance to wear your finest attire, walk the red carpet, have your tarot cards read, learn to salsa, be entertained by a belly dancer, and dance the night away. Plated salad, Surf & Turf dinner, desserts and welcome champagne included.

• See more date ideas in Raleigh
• 15+ Ideas for Celebrating Valentine’s Day in Raleigh

Sporting Events this week

• NHL Carolina Hurricanes vs New York Rangers: Feb 11; 7pm @ PNC

Week 3: Mon 13th – sun 19th

We’re very excited to participate in the Stadium Series this week – a one and done for the Raleigh area! Go Canes!

Carolina Hurricanes Fan Fest, Feb 17, 2023

• Where: Fayetteville St
• Time: 11am-9pm
• Cost: Free
• Website

The Stadium Series is for everyone in Raleigh whether you can get tickets to the event or not.

Time to celebrate the Cane’s 25 years in North Carolina. There’ll be Hurricanes alumni, street hockey, and ice skating as well as local vendors, food trucks, craft beer, live music, art installations, photo stations, kids’ zone activations and inflatables.

Two stages will be set up for 12 musical acts from North Carolina that include Adam Lee Decker, Into the Fog, Paige King Johnson, James Dunn, Touabab Krewe, Jason Adamo, Mega Colossus, Kooley High, Rosali and Superchunk

Hootie & The Blowfish, Feb 17, 2023

• Where: PNC Arena
• Time: 7pm
• Cost:
• Website

A one-night only concert by the two-time Grammy Award-winning band from the Carolinas to help kick off the pre-party for the Stadium Series outdoor hockey match!

2023 Navy Federal Credit Union NHL Stadium Series, Feb 18, 2023

• Where: Carter-Finley Stadium
• Time: Feb 18th, 2pm pre-game / 8pm game start
• Cost: $300+
• Website

This is one event in Raleigh we’re really excited for in 2023. NHL’s iconic Stadium Series is coming to Raleigh’s Carter-Finley Stadium for the Carolina Hurricane’s first ever outdoor game against rivals, the Washington Capitals.

If you can’t make the outdoor ice hockey game, there are two free, family-friendly hockey events on:

1. Truly Hard Seltzer NHL PreGame (official NHL tailgate party of the 2023 Navy Federal Credit Union NHL Stadium Series) on Saturday, February 18, from 2:00PM – 7:30PM in the PNC Arena East 1000 Parking Lot. It will feature hockey interactive games and attractions, live music, special appearances, and photos with the Stanley Cup!
2. FanFest (Feb 17) a day packed with activities and entertainment from 11 am – 9 pm in Downtown Raleigh on Fayetteville Street from City Plaza to the State Capitol. Meet Hurricanes alumni, get your photo with the Stanley Cup, play street hockey, ride the ferris wheel, and enjoy live music and entertainment all day with a firework show finale! Free and open to the public!

Read our guide to the Carter-Finley Stadium

Great Backyard Bird Count, Feb 18, 2023

• Where: North Carolina Museum of Art Ellipse
• Time: 10-12pm (30-minute guided bird walks leave every half hour)
• Cost: Free
• Website:

An annual worldwide citizen-science event to count and track birds. Come to the Museum Park to help collect this important data and learn more about birds in the process. Dress in layers and bring binoculars. Open to all ages and levels of birders.

GAG! A Queer Dance Party, Feb 18, 2023

• Where: Junction West, Warehouse District
• Time: 9pm-1am
• Cost: $15-$25
• Website

A “Self Love Soiree” with tunes from DJ Luxe Post and DJ Danielingus and special guest, Ms. B Haven. There’ll be special performances from Miss Gay North Carolina, Kiara Mel and bringing the Miami heat is Fantasia Royale Gaga

Sporting Events this week

• NHL Carolina Hurricanes vs Montreal Canadiens: Feb 16; 7pm @ PNC
• NC State Women’s Basketball vs. North Carolina, Feb 16; 8pm @ Reynolds Coliseum
• NC State Men’s Basketball vs UNC Feb 19; 1pm @ PNC

Week 4: mon 20th – Tues 28th

Flannels & Frost, Feb 25, 2023

• Where: Moore Square
• Time: 12-4pm
• Cost: Free
• Website

A fun and free celebration of all things winter with live music, hot beverages, and sweet treats, plus activities like a pancake eating contest, S’mores, arts and crafts, axe throwing, and games and activities.

Body Mind Spirit Celebration, Feb 25 & 26, 2023

• Where: NC State Fairgrounds Exposition Center
• Time: 10am-7pm
• Cost: Free
• Website

This two-day event celebrates holistic living with the nation’s finest psychics and mediums, the best in alternative health, wellness tools, products and resources. You can also participate in learning sessions and presentations featuring psychics, experts and holistic practitioners at the top of their fields! 

NC Vintage Bazaar, Feb 25, 2023

• Where: Raleigh Convention Center
• Time: 12pm-6pm
• Cost: $5-$15
• Website

Collectors and trendsetters get ready for the biggest vintage clothing event in North Carolina. There’ll be vintage treasures for all genders, shapes, sizes and styles.

Sporting Events this week

• NHL Carolina Hurricanes vs St Louis Blues: Feb 21; 7pm @ PNC
• NC State Men’s Basketball vs Wake Forest Feb 22; 9pm @ PNC
• NHL Carolina Hurricanes vs Ottawa Senators: Feb 24; 7pm @ PNC
• NC State Men’s Basketball vs Clemson Feb 25; 12pm @ PNC
• NHL Carolina Hurricanes vs Anaheim Ducks: Feb 25; 7pm @ PNC
• NC State Women’s Basketball vs. Pitt, Feb 26; 2pm @ Reynolds Coliseum

Hotels in Downtown Raleigh

If you’re visiting Raleigh from out of town for any January events, here are our recommendations for accommodation in Downtown Raleigh.

•  Residence inn Downtown Raleigh – fantastic location and big suites
•  StateView Hotel – hidden away in a forest on NC State’s Campus
•  Check out 10 of our short-term rental favorites

If you are visiting from out of town and have a few extra days, here are some guides to help you plan out your days exploring Raleigh:

• 24 hour itinerary guide for Raleigh
• 48 hour itinerary guide for Raleigh NC
• 22 of our favorite downtown Raleigh restaurants
• 5 of the best rooftop bars in Raleigh

What do you have planned for February in 2023 in Raleigh or beyond? We’d love to hear your suggestions on more things to do!

Uniquely Raleigh Checklist

FREE Printable CHECKLIST for all the best things to do in Raleigh  + updates + insider tips. 

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