Apex Geek and Grub Market: Fantasy Edition at Optimist Farm
Dragons, vendors, and Renn Fest vibes—all in one magical afternoon.
Shannon
March 25, 2026
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Dust off your cloaks—March 29 is calling. The Apex Geek and Grub Market (Fantasy Edition) is taking over Optimist Farm with 50+ vendors, food trucks, and plenty of “did I just see a dragon?” moments thanks to the Festival of Legends crew. Costumes are encouraged, but curiosity works just fine too.
Snag your free tickets here and see what kind of fantasy treasures await.
Not sponsored—just easily distracted by dragons and snacks. (Just so you know: Sponsored content in our newsletter is always marked with “*”).
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The 919 Deal Drop:
Don’t Miss These $1 Taco Deals at Frito’s Burgers & Tacos 🔥
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🏡 FOR SALE UNDER $300K: 1 BEDROOMS | 2 BATHROOMS | 763 SQ FT | $212,500
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Raleigh Overtime:
🍴 FOODIE FIND: Margaux's Restaurant’s Grilled Swordfish is served with charred octopus, Spanish-style potato salad, and Santorini fava.
🐾 FOR ADOPTION: KAIT | DOG | 2 MONTHS | FEMALE
Kait is a small, joyful puppy with a big heart who loves everyone she meets and is ready to share her affection with a forever family. Check her out here →
🛍️ GARAGE SALE: Head over to 3007 Charwood Place on March 28-29 at 9AM for antiques, collectibles, vintage finds, tools, furniture, and thousands of items priced to go. More details here →
📝 LOCAL CLASS: Paint and Sip at Vino Wine Bar on March 26 at 7PM.
Paint-and-sip experience where participants follow along to create their own version of “Pour Me a Glass” in a relaxed, creative setting. 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: NRCLOIAA IUCERSHANR
🌳 Golden Years Gatherings
Handpicked social, cultural, and community events especially for Raleigh’s older adults.
👋 Event of the day: Bingo, Books, & Bagels for Seniors @ Southeast Regional Library | March 26 | 11AM
Bingo, Books, & Bagels for seniors age 60+ featuring bagels, book talks, and bingo at Southeast Regional Library. Get details here →
💲 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: Robert Plant | Rock
Robert Plant with Saving Grace and Suzi Dian is a live music project led by Robert Plant featuring the band Saving Grace and vocalist Suzi Dian, performing reinterpretations of folk, blues, and classic songs. | Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts | March 31, 7:30PM | Get tickets here →
🎤 Plan Ahead: David Byrne | Rock
David Byrne is a Scottish-American singer, songwriter, and artist best known as the frontman of Talking Heads and for his innovative solo work blending music, visual art, and performance. | DPAC | May 11, 8PM | Get tickets here →
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Let’s Get Laughing:
🎤 This Week: Chris Kattan at Goodnights Comedy Club | April 2, 7:30PM | Chris Kattan is an American actor and comedian known for his work on Saturday Night Live and roles in films like A Night at the Roxbury. Get tickets here →
😂 Plan Ahead: Tony Rock at Raleigh Improv | June 12-13 | Tony Rock is a stand-up comedian and actor known for his quick wit, sharp crowd work, and confident, high-energy performances. Get tickets here →
Find Friends in Raleigh:
Curated social events without an emphasis on alcohol or romance:
👋 Sip, Paint & Karaoke @ The Big Easy NC | April 3 | 8PM
Paint & Sip Night at The Big Easy featuring art, drinks, karaoke, and a lively downtown Raleigh atmosphere for singles and couples. Get details here →
🤝 Bike Tribe Community - Ride the Stress Away @ House Creek Greenway Trail | April 4 | 7AM
Group bike ride offering a relaxed 8.8-mile scenic loop at dawn or dusk with music, conversation, and a fun, social atmosphere. Get details here →
ZincHouse is where you go when you want wine, beer, and wide-open views without leaving town. Big porches, firepits, food trucks, and live music make it feel like Raleigh’s backyard getaway.
—Andrew, a longtime reader
Oak City Job Openings:
🖥️ WORK-FROM-HOME JOB HIRING IN RALEIGH: Equivity VA is seeking a Virtual Paralegal.
💼 RALEIGH JOB: The Orvis Company is seeking a Retail Sales Associate.
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