ANIMATE! Raleigh Brings Anime, Cosplay, and Gaming to the Raleigh Convention Center
Three days of anime, cosplay, and fandom fun.
Shannon
March 10, 2026
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Calling all anime fans, cosplay creators, and animation lovers: ANIMATE! Raleigh lands at the Raleigh Convention Center March 13–15 for a three-day celebration of animation and fandom. Expect panels, Q&As, video and tabletop gaming, cosplay wrestling (yes, really), and costume contests that show off some seriously impressive creativity.
Curious who’s appearing or when the best panels are happening? You can peek at the full schedule here. Ready to jump in? Grab tickets here before your favorite events fill up.
Not sponsored—just a friendly PSA for anyone whose weekend plans could use more anime and dramatic capes. (Just so you know: Sponsored content in our newsletter is always marked with “*”).
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🔥 Get The Latest Raleigh Guide:
The Ultimate Durham Bucket List: 50 Must-Do Activities, part of The Raleigh Bundle collection of expert guides, is packed with can’t-miss experiences, local favorites, and hidden gems that capture the city’s charm. Even longtime locals will be surprised by what they find inside.
The 919 Deal Drop:
Don’t Miss These Midweek Pasta & Martini Deals at Neuse River Brewing 🔥
Wednesdays are looking delicious—swing by Neuse River Brewing & Brasserie for their house-made pasta special and sip on $6 martinis while you’re at it. No tricks, just tasty.
📍Where: Neuse River Brewing & Brasserie
📅 When: Every Wednesday
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A charming, thoughtfully updated bungalow near downtown Raleigh blending historic character with modern updates and walkable access to coffee shops, restaurants, parks, and new developments. Take a look here →
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A gorgeous custom-built 4BR/3.5BA home in Brookhaven Estates featuring tree-lined streets, a welcoming foyer, and site-finished hardwood floors throughout the main living areas, stairs, and upstairs hall. Take a look here →
Raleigh Overtime:
🍴 FOODIE FIND: Jolie’s Parisian Gnocchi Bourguignon is a rich, comforting dish featuring tender gnocchi with bacon lardons, baby carrots, and button mushrooms in a classic bourguignon style.
🐾 FOR ADOPTION: OAK | DOG | 3 MONTHS | MALE
Oak is a gentle, affectionate pup who loves everyone he meets, balancing playful energy with a calm, cuddly personality. Check him out here →
🛍️ GARAGE SALE: Head over to NMAC, Holly Springs on March 28 at 8AM for a community-wide yard sale packed with neighborhood finds running from 8:00 AM to noon. More details here →
📝 LOCAL CLASS: Deep Stretch & Mobility Stretch Circle at 1003 Dresser Court on March 11 at 6:30PM.
Deep Mobility & Stretch Flow is a 60-minute guided session combining mobility drills, intentional stretching, and breathwork to improve flexibility and movement. Sign up here →
🧠 UNSCRAMBLE, WIN A PRIZE: Unscramble this Raleigh-related phrase, be the first to reply with the correct answer, and we’ll send you a tote bag, stickers, and a magnet in the mail: EAKL ELWEHRE
🌳 Golden Years Gatherings
Handpicked social, cultural, and community events especially for Raleigh’s older adults.
👋 Event of the day: The 24th Annual Circle of Elders @ Living Waters Christian Community | March 14 | 11AM
The 24th Annual Circle of Elders is a community gathering celebrating wisdom, storytelling, and connection as elders from diverse backgrounds share experiences and insights. Get details here →
💲 Senior Discount of the Day: Senior Discount of the Day: KFC | 10% Off Senior Discount
KFC gives seniors 10% off or a free small drink with any meal purchase.
Local Vocals:
🎸 This Week: KC & the Sunshine Band | Pop
KC and the Sunshine Band are a disco and funk band known for their upbeat dance hits, bright horn sections, and iconic 1970s party anthems. | DPAC | March 14, 8PM | Get tickets here →
🎤 Plan Ahead: David Byrne | Rock
David Byrne is an American musician, singer-songwriter, and artist best known as the frontman of Talking Heads, celebrated for his innovative approach to rock, art-pop, and multimedia performance. | DPAC | May 11, 8PM | Get tickets here →
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Let’s Get Laughing:
🎤 This Week: Michael Colyar at Goodnights Comedy Club | March 13-15 | Michael Colyar is a comedian and actor known for his energetic storytelling, uplifting humor, and charismatic, motivational stage presence. Get tickets here →
😂 Plan Ahead: Zoltan Kaszas at Goodnights Comedy Club | April 23-25 | Zoltan Kaszas is a stand-up comedian known for his clever, conversational delivery and relatable humor about relationships, culture, and everyday frustrations. Get tickets here →
Find Friends in Raleigh:
Curated social events without an emphasis on alcohol or romance:
👋 Trying Times Listening Party @ Schoolkids Records | March 13 | 5:30PM
A listening party at Schoolkids Records celebrating James Blake’s new album with music, dancing, drinks, and fellow fans. Get details here →
🤝 Book Discussion @ North Regional Library | March 16 | 6:30PM
A monthly librarian-led book discussion exploring The Left Hand of Darkness by Ursula K. Le Guin. Get details here →
Kings is tucked into North Hills and looks like your average bowling alley, but it’s way more. Think retro vibes, craft cocktails, and surprisingly good food. Great spot for a low-key night out that still feels a little fancy. Just go early if you don’t want to wait...it’s a bit of a local favorite.
—Liza, a longtime reader
Oak City Job Openings:
🖥️ WORK-FROM-HOME JOB HIRING IN RALEIGH: Vasumo is seeking a Virtual Assistant.
💼 RALEIGH JOB: Steel Mountain Fire & Safety is seeking a Part Time Scheduling and Administrative Assistant.
💸SIDE HUSTLES:
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Hey, y’all: Event info can change—always check the organizer’s site before you go.
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