International Festival at the NC State Fairgrounds
One day, endless cultures, zero jet lag.
Shannon
September 16, 2025
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Why burn frequent flyer miles when you can taste your way around the globe in one Saturday? On September 20 (10 AM–7 PM), the International Festival brings authentic food, music, dance, parades, shopping, and even a high-energy dance competition to the NC State Fairgrounds. From sizzling street eats to handmade treasures, it’s basically a passport in your pocket.
Curious about the full lineup or where to snag your “ticket” (yes, it’s free)? Click here for the details.
Disclaimer: This isn’t sponsored (we’d tell you if it was). We just really enjoy globe-trotting without baggage claim. (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 Juicy Burger Deals at Eastcut Sandwich Bar 🔥
Bite into $6 burgers every Thursday—no codes, no tricks, just the kind of deal that makes Thursdays taste way better.
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📅 When: Every Thursday
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Raleigh Overtime:
🍴 FOODIE FIND: Peregrine’s Maghrebi Duck Breast is a dish where Moroccan flavors come into focus, served with spiced barley, stone fruit, olives, and ras el hanout.
🐾 FOR ADOPTION: MEEKA | CAT | 1 YEAR | FEMALE
Meeka is a petite 1-year-old tabby-and-white sweetheart with a big personality, always ready to greet with cheerful chirps and purrs while happily keeping close company. Check her out here →
🛍️ GARAGE SALE: Head over to Salem Village on September 20 at 8AM for 10+ racks of clothing, bedding, home goods, shoes, and bags—including multiple racks of name brands in sizes XS–2XL. More details here →
📝 LOCAL CLASS: Sushi Workshop at Artisan Beer and Cheese on September 17 at 6:30PM.
Artisan Beer & Cheese presents Viva La Noche’s interactive class, where participants learn authentic techniques and craft their own delicious rolls. 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 MMEUUS OF RYHSTOI
🌳 Golden Years Gatherings
Handpicked social, cultural, and community events especially for Raleigh’s older adults.
👋 Event of the day: Get Ready for Medicare Open Enrollment with NC SHIIP @ Cary Regional Library | September 23 | 2PM
This session, led by a SHIIP volunteer, simplifies Medicare by guiding participants through key considerations for the upcoming Open Enrollment period. 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: Thee Swelltones | Rock
Thee Swelltones channel the 1960s with a high-energy mix of surf, jazz, go-go, and classic rock ’n’ roll, delivering retro grooves built for the dance floor.* | Slim's Dive Bar | September 18, 9PM
🎤 Plan Ahead: OK Go | Pop-Rock
OK Go is an American rock band known for catchy power-pop songs and wildly inventive, choreographed music videos—most famously the treadmill hit “Here It Goes Again.” | The Ritz | December 6, 7PM | Get tickets here →
Save Hours of Searching—These Vetted Pros Are Ready to Improve Your Life (Updated Daily)
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✔️ 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.
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Let’s Get Laughing:
🎤 This Week: Christian Johnson at Goodnights Comedy Club | September 21, 7PM | Christian Johnson is an American clean stand-up comedian known for his relatable, family-friendly humor and appearances on networks like Dry Bar Comedy. Get tickets here →
😂 Plan Ahead: Wanda Sykes at DPAC | November 7, 7:30PM | Wanda Sykes is an American stand-up comedian, actress, and writer known for her sharp wit, outspoken humor, and roles in television, film, and comedy specials. Get tickets here →
Find Friends in Raleigh:
Curated social events without an emphasis on alcohol or romance:
👋 End of Summer: Cocktails & Candles Experience @ 1106 Scenic Club Drive | September 21 | 2PM
The End of Summer: Cocktails & Candles Experience offers an afternoon of creativity and connection, featuring a hands-on class with hand-poured coconut soy candles and freshly crafted cocktails. Get details here →
🤝 Women’s Network Meeting @ Fare and Fellow Cafe | September 23 | 10AM
Fare and Fellow Cafe Women’s Network Meeting offers a welcoming space for professionals at any stage to connect, share insights, and grow their networks. Get details here →
Frankie’s Fun Park is one of those places you don’t realize how much you love until you’re there, racing go-karts, battling in laser tag, or losing track of time in the arcade. It’s got that perfect mix of nostalgia and adrenaline. And the mini golf? Way more competitive than anyone admits. It’s a good spot when you just need a break from your usual Raleigh routine.
—Diana, a longtime reader
Oak City Job Openings:
💻 WORK-FROM-HOME JOB HIRING IN RALEIGH: Belay Solutions is seeking a Virtual Assistant.
💼 RALEIGH JOB: LifeStance Health is seeking a Cash Posting Coordinator.
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Hey, y’all: Event info can change—always check the organizer’s site before you go.
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