Artsplosure Returns to Downtown Raleigh With Art, Music & Giant Installations
175+ artists, live performances, and a weekend that turns downtown into one big creative playground.
Shannon
May 10, 2026
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Downtown Raleigh is about to turn into one giant outdoor gallery as Artsplosure returns May 16–17 with 175+ visual artists, live music on two stages, massive art installations, Carolina Shakespeare performances, and hands-on fun at Kidsplosure. Expect ceramics, paintings, jewelry, photography, fiber art, and plenty of art to browse while spending the day downtown.
You can browse artist booths, catch performances, and wander between installations all weekend long. Want to map out your must-sees ahead of time? Check out the full entertainment lineup and vendor list before you go.
Not sponsored. We just really enjoy wandering around looking at cool stuff. (Just so you know: Sponsored content in our newsletter is always marked with “*”).
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🔥 Get The Latest Raleigh Guide:
Kid-Approved Raleigh: 51 Great Spots for Family Fun, part of The Raleigh Bundle collection of expert guides, is packed with easy day-out ideas, hands-on activities, and hidden gems families can actually enjoy together. 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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Raleigh Overtime:
🍴 FOODIE FIND: Jolie’s Shaved Celery Salad is a crisp, refreshing dish with blue cheese, pickled green strawberries, and white balsamic.
🐾 FOR ADOPTION: ALF | DOG, LABRADOR | 5 MONTHS | MALE
Alf is a playful, confident lab mix who loves adventure, gets along with other dogs, and is ready to bring fun and affection to his forever home. Check him out here →
🛍️ GARAGE SALE: Head over to 2325 K Wesley Way on May 17 at 8AM for clothes, books, kitchen items, furniture, and plenty of useful finds waiting for a new home. More details here →
📝 LOCAL CLASS: Craft It: Paracord Bracelets at Northeast Regional Library on May 12 at 11AM.
A paracord bracelet class teaching how to create stylish, durable, and practical accessories with simple techniques. 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: TLLEAY EUTDNST ONUNI
🌳 Golden Years Gatherings
Handpicked social, cultural, and community events especially for Raleigh’s older adults.
👋 Event of the day: Chair Yoga @ Rolesville Community Center | May 18 | 11:30AM
A senior-friendly chair yoga class offers gentle stretching, breathing, and balance exercises in an accessible, community-based setting to support flexibility and well-being. 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: Wheelwright | Pop, Rock
Wheelwright is a Phoenix-based indie rock project led by Jared Kolesar, known for blending desert-inspired pop and grunge influences with introspective songwriting. | Slim's Dive Bar* | May 11, 8PM | Get details here →
🎤 Plan Ahead: Deep Purple | Rock
Deep Purple is a British rock band known for pioneering hard rock and heavy metal with classic songs like “Smoke on the Water” and virtuosic musicianship. | Red Hat Amphitheater | August 4, 6PM | Get tickets here →
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Let’s Get Laughing:
🎤 This Week: Tiffany Haddish at Raleigh Improv | May 15-16 | Tiffany Haddish is an American comedian and actress known for her bold, charismatic humor and breakout role in Girls Trip. Get tickets here →
😂 Plan Ahead: Felipe Esparza at Raleigh Improv | June 5-6 | Felipe Esparza is a Mexican-American stand-up comedian known for his storytelling style, bilingual humor, and winning Last Comic Standing. Get tickets here →
Find Friends in Raleigh:
Curated social events without an emphasis on alcohol or romance:
👋 Village Wednesdays @ Wright Note Cafe | May 13 | 10AM
A weekly midweek gathering at The Wright Note Café offering a productive space for work, connection, and community among creatives and professionals. Get details here →
🤝 LaunchBio Innovators Social Hour @ Flying Bull Beer Company | May 14 | 5:30PM
An Innovators Social Hour at Durham ID offering a casual gathering for networking, connections, and drinks with the local community. 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: Claire's Essentials LLC is seeking a Part-Time Manager.
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Hey, y’all: Event info can change—always check the organizer’s site before you go.
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