Game and Geek Expo Levels Up at the Convention Center

Cosplay, collectibles, and console wars—all under one roof this weekend.

Calling all dungeon masters, joystick junkies, and cosplay kings: the Game and Geek Expo is back at the Raleigh Convention Center and it’s bringing the full nerd buffet. On June 7–8, dive into a weekend of retro games, anime merch, tabletop freeplay, fan meetups, and an 18+ After Dark Party (because even geeks need to let loose). Expect cosplay contests, gaming tournaments, and an absolutely massive Mega Marketplace.

Want in on the action? Grab your tickets here before they vanish like a rare drop.

This isn’t sponsored (we’d let you know if it was). We just really like lightsabers and limited-edition Pokémon cards. (Just so you know: Sponsored content in our newsletter is always marked with “*”).

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🔥 Get The Latest Raleigh Guide:

18 Exciting Weekend Getaways Within 2 Hours of Raleigh, part of The Raleigh Bundle collection of expert guides, is packed with easy escapes, hidden gems, and unique spots you’ll actually want to visit. Even longtime locals will be surprised by what they find inside.

The 919 Deal Drop:

Don’t Miss These Daily Drink Deals at Carolina Ale House 🍻🔥

Score rotating drink specials every day, like $6 well cocktails and $12 domestic pitchers. No code, no catch. Cheers!

📍Where: Carolina Ale House
📅 When: Every day

Raleigh Real Estate:

🏡 FOR SALE UNDER $300K: 2 BEDROOMS | 2 BATHROOMS | 1,311 SQ FT | .04 ACRES | $239,900
This charming 2-story brick townhome, located in one of Raleigh’s most desirable areas, features 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, offering a well-maintained blend of comfort, style, and convenience.* Take a look here →

🏠 FOR SALE UNDER $400K: 2 BEDROOMS | 3 BATHROOMS | 1,244 SQ FT | .04 ACRES | $309,000
This delightfully updated townhome in the heart of Raleigh features fresh paint, hardwood floors, quartz countertops, updated bathrooms, and a cozy wood-burning fireplace.* Take a look here →

🏘️ FOR SALE OVER $400K: 2 BEDROOMS | 2 BATHROOMS | 1,309 SQ FT | $620,000
Step behind the gates of this iconic community into a beautifully updated 2-bedroom unit, where a soaring ceiling and meticulous modern details create a stunning, move-in ready living space.* Take a look here →

🏰 FOR SALE OVER $1M: 4 BEDROOMS | 5 BATHROOMS | 5,850 SQ FT | 1.51 ACRES | $1,195,000
Set on a stunning 1.51-acre lot with serene views of Pendleton Lake, this 5,851-square-foot home blends elegance, comfort, and natural beauty in an exceptional setting.* Take a look here →

👨 WANT TO VIEW THESE HOUSES OR OTHERS IN PERSON (OR SELL YOUR OWN)? TEXT OR CALL RYAN FOR A FREE CONSULTATION…

Owner at Raleigh Realty, real estate agent Ryan Fitzgerald has…

  • been featured in Forbes, The Wall Street Journal, and U.S. News & World Report

  • accumulated 595 Google reviews and a 5-star rating

  • been voted the Triangle's best real estate company by INDY Week

Whether you're buying or selling, he and his team are ready to help you navigate the fast-moving Triangle market. Don’t wait—reach out today!*

Contact Ryan and mention Raleigh.com sent you and he’ll send you a FREE $6 Starbucks gift card!

📱 Text or call: 919-249-8536
📧 Email: [email protected]
🌐 Website: RaleighRealty.com

🏡 View Homes in Raleigh: RaleighRealty.com/raleigh

Raleigh Overtime:

🍴 FOODIE FIND: The Mecca’s Roasted Lemon-Herb Chicken is a flavorful Wednesday special served with savory dressing, available for dine-in only and well worth the visit.

🐾 FOR ADOPTION: HOSS | DOG | 2 YEARS | MALE
Hoss is a big, energetic dog with a playful spirit and adventurous heart, ready to become a loyal companion and bring endless entertainment and joy to his future home. Check him out here →

🛍️ GARAGE SALE: Head over to Bent Creek on June 7 at 7AM for collectibles, handmade jewelry and accessories, garden items, and much more. More details here →

📝 LOCAL CLASS: Thursday Night Drop-In Improv Class at Leela Improv Theatre on June 5 at 7PM.
Each week, participants will explore Leela’s signature style of improvisation, grounded in joyful play, authentic self-expression, ensemble connection, and the spirit of “Yes, and!” 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: CN UEUSMM OF TAUNRLA CSEIECNS

Local Vocals:

🎸 This Week: Dirt Pump | Garage Punk
Dirt Pump brings a gritty, high-octane blast of garage punk, sludge rock, and southern noise straight from Raleigh’s underground.* | Slim's Dive Bar | June 6, 9PM

🎤 Plan Ahead: The Lumineers | Folk, Rock
The Lumineers are a Grammy-nominated indie folk band credited with popularizing the Americana genre in the 2010s, known for their vivid storytelling, dynamic live performances, and memorable choruses. | Coastal Credit Union Music Park at Walnut Creek | September 16, 7:30PM | Get tickets here

Save Hours of Searching—These Vetted Pros Are Ready to Improve Your Life (Updated Daily)

When you need to get things done (the right way, and fast), you don’t have time to read endless reviews. We’ve done that for you. These leading local service professionals have earned their stellar reputations and are ready to help you simplify your life.

Call them and tell them we sent you!*

✔️ Auto Mechanic: King’s Auto Service has 630+ Google reviews and a 4.9-star rating—trusted for over 75 years for reliable, expert car care in Raleigh.

✔️ Botox: BeautyCo has 260+ Google reviews and a perfect 5.0-star rating—Raleigh’s go-to spot for expert Botox treatments and natural-looking results.

✔️ Cosmetic Surgeon (Body): Amelia Aesthetics has 580+ Google reviews and a 4.9-star rating—trusted experts for body contouring and enhancement.

✔️ Cosmetic Surgeon (Face): Raleigh Eye and Face has 140+ Google reviews and a 4.9-star rating—expert facial aesthetics and surgical care you can trust.

✔️ Dentist: Russo DDS has 1,500+ Google reviews and a 4.9-star rating—trusted by families all over Raleigh for exceptional dental care.

✔️ Handyman: Ace Handyman Services Greater Triangle and Johnston County has 900+ Google reviews and a 4.9-star rating—because getting things fixed right matters.

✔️ Home Remodeler: Simply Right Remodeling has 100+ Google reviews and a perfect 5.0-star rating—expert craftsmanship to transform your home with style and precision.

✔️ HVAC Services: Air Experts—Raleigh’s go-to HVAC specialists with 7,300+ Google reviews and a 4.9-star rating. Don’t wait for the next heatwave!

✔️ Laser Hair Removal: BodyLase Med Spa has nearly 900 Google reviews and a 4.9-star rating for expert laser hair removal. Book your glow-up today!

✔️ Massage Therapist: Lorena Luca Spa & Skin Clinic boasts 460+ Google reviews and a 4.8-star rating—because you deserve to relax.

✔️ Mortgage Broker: Erika Fonseca - Oak City Lending (NMLS #2679761) has 15 Google reviews, all 5.0 stars. Get the best home loan options with a pro who truly cares!

✔️ Orthodontist: Wake Orthodontics and Pediatric Dentistry has 1,400+ Google reviews and a 4.9-star rating—creating confident smiles for kids and adults across Raleigh.

✔️ Therapist: Elizabeth Tatum, LCMHC has 5.0 stars and 30+ Google reviews for compassionate, effective therapy. Take care of your mental wellness with one of Raleigh’s best.

✔️ Wealth Advisor: Capitol Financial has 25+ Google reviews and a 4.9-star rating for expert financial planning. Your future self will thank you.

Let’s Get Laughing:

🎤 This Week: Tim Ross & Jamie Kilstein at Raleigh Improv | June 8, 6PM | A night of brutally honest comedy tackling life’s messiest moments—death, drugs, doubt, and celebrity encounters—with raw vulnerability and sharp humor that will leave audiences laughing, reflecting, and possibly even transformed. Get tickets here

😂 Plan Ahead: Gary Owen, Sheryl Underwood, Earthquake, & Special K at Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts | October 11, 8PM | Experience an evening of top-tier comedy at the "Legends of Laughter" show. Get tickets here

Find Friends in Raleigh:

Curated social events without an emphasis on alcohol or romance:

👋 Fair Play: Maps & Mahj @ Junction West | June 5 | 6PM
Whether you're new to Mahjong or a seasoned player, join an exciting event featuring beginner lessons from certified OMM teacher Megan Black, open play for experienced players, and a fun social option with snacks, drinks, and a mini lesson on fair maps. Get details here →

🤝 White Rose Luncheon: Roses and Revelry @ Embassy Suites | June 14 | 12PM
The White Rose Luncheon: Roses and Revelry: A Live Art Affair promises an unforgettable afternoon of creativity and celebration, blending art, entertainment, and philanthropy to support the Triangle Park (NC) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated. Get details here →

Raleigh Hidden Gem:

Neptune’s Parlour is this cool little basement bar under Kings—it feels hidden, but in the best way. The music’s always good, the drinks are solid, and it’s got that perfect mix of laid-back and a little weird. Great spot if you want something chill but not boring.

Greg, a longtime reader

Oak City Job Openings:

🤝 RALEIGH JOB: WALMART is seeking a Stocker.

Want to work find more ways to work from home? Check out our guide to legit remote jobs hiring in Raleigh—part of The Raleigh Bundle. Find it here

Interested in promoting your business or event to 8,503 trendsetters in the Triangle?

Connect with engaged consumers across the Triangle. See options and rates here.

Hey, y’all: Event info can change—always check the organizer’s site before you go.

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