KickStart 5K: A Raleigh-Area Run With Cocoa, Medals, and a Strong Finish
Run Fenton, loop the soccer park, and toast the finish line.
Shannon
December 23, 2025
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Wrap up the year on a high note at the KickStart 5K on Saturday, December 27, starting and finishing in the heart of Fenton. Expect a smooth course, an event shirt, a finisher medal, and—most importantly—a cozy cup of hot cocoa waiting at the finish line. Awards follow at Dram & Draught, so stick around and cheer.
This isn’t sponsored (we’d brag if it were). We just like a good run and warm cocoa. (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 charming small towns, scenic escapes, foodie hotspots, and unexpected adventures perfect for a quick reset. Even longtime locals will be surprised by what they find inside.
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Raleigh Overtime:
🍴 FOODIE FIND: The Crunkleton’s Mac & Three Cheese Shells is a rich, comforting take on a classic, made with a blend of cheddar, American, and Parmesan cheeses.
🐾 FOR ADOPTION: FORTINBRAS | DOG | 1 YEAR, 5 MONTHS | MALE
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📝 LOCAL CLASS: Candle Making Class at 4325 Glenwood Avenue on December 26 at 3PM or 6PM.
A scented candle-making experience with Touch of Eden Skin & Co. that goes beyond a class to create a full creative vibe. Sign up here →
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🌳 Golden Years Gatherings
Handpicked social, cultural, and community events especially for Raleigh’s older adults.
👋 Event of the day: Game Time - Happy Hour Edition @ Rally Point Sport Grill | December 24 | 4PM
Game Time – Happy Hour Edition at Rally Point, where a reserved room off the bar will be available to play games while enjoying drinks, appetizers, and dinner. Get details here →
💲 Senior Discount of the Day: Publix | Senior Wednesday Discount
5% off for customers age 60+ every Wednesday.
Local Vocals:
🎸 This Week: Christmas Night at Slim’s
Trade the eggnog for Malört and settle in for a no-frills, laid-back Christmas night at Slim’s with locals, friends, and good conversation.* | Slim's Dive Bar | December 25, 8PM | More info here →
🎤 Plan Ahead: Brit Floyd | Rock
Brit Floyd is a renowned tribute band celebrated for its authentic, high-production recreations of Pink Floyd’s iconic music, visuals, and live concert experience. | DPAC | March 26, 7:30PM | Get tickets here →
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Let’s Get Laughing:
🎤 This Week: Dov Davidoff at Raleigh Improv | December 27-28 | Dov Davidoff is an American stand-up comedian and actor known for his rapid-fire delivery, edgy humor, and distinctive, high-energy stage presence. Get tickets here →
😂 Plan Ahead: Hannah Berner at DPAC | January 31, 7:30PM | Hannah Berner is an American stand-up comedian, podcaster, and television personality known for her sharp observational humor and candid takes on dating, relationships, and modern life. Get tickets here →
Find Friends in Raleigh:
Curated social events without an emphasis on alcohol or romance:
👋 Pickleball Practice Tournament @ Method Road Community Center | December 26 | 4:30PM
This is a weekly pickleball practice and open-play session with optional friendly competition, social play, and a potluck dinner. Get details here →
🤝 Paint Nite Brand Creative Events @ Hi Wire Brewing Company Durham | December 28 | 3PM
Sip and Paint parties at Hi-Wire Brewing Durham invite guests to enjoy food and drinks while painting an 11x14 canvas with a professional artist, blending guided techniques with creative freedom for a fun night out. Get details here →
Bayleaf Market mixes cozy porch vibes with shelves full of North Carolina-made treasures...pottery, candles, jams, honey, and even farm-fresh ice cream. It’s the kind of place that feels like Raleigh at its best.
—Brynne, a longtime reader
Oak City Job Openings:
🖥️ WORK-FROM-HOME JOB HIRING IN RALEIGH: Nexus Facility Solutions is seeking an Administrative Assistant.
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