Moonlight in the Garden: Where Nature and Night Collide at JC Raulston Arboretum
Fire pits, cider, and lights that turn leaves into art.
Shannon
November 15, 2025
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When the sun sets, the JC Raulston Arboretum doesn’t go dark—it glows. Moonlight in the Garden (Nov. 21–22) transforms Raleigh’s beloved gardens into a twinkling wonderland of light, music, and magic. Stroll winding paths, sip hot cider, toast marshmallows by the fire, and catch live music under the stars. Each year brings a new lighting design that turns familiar spaces into glowing dreamscapes.
See the entertainment and food truck lineup or grab tickets here before they sell out. This isn’t sponsored (we’d tell you if it was)—we just like things that sparkle and serve snacks. (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 ideas for play, dining, and adventures the whole family can enjoy. Even longtime locals will be surprised by what they find inside.
The 919 Deal Drop:
Don’t Miss These Cocktail Deals at The Big Easy 🍹🔥
Get $2 off all specialty cocktails every Wednesday—just show up and order your favorite. It’s that easy.
📍Where: The Big Easy
📅 When: Every Wednesday
Raleigh Real Estate:
🏡 FOR SALE UNDER $300K: 2 BEDROOMS | 2 BATHROOMS | 969 SQ FT | $185,000
This spacious, open-concept condo features a refreshed modern design with a large living area that flows into the dining room and kitchen, updated bathrooms, and a primary suite with a convenient built-in washer/dryer combo.* Take a look here →
🏠 FOR SALE UNDER $400K: 3 BEDROOMS | 3 BATHROOMS | 1,677 SQ FT | .04 ACRES | $305,000
This move-in ready end-unit townhome is just 10 minutes from Downtown Raleigh, featuring luxury vinyl plank floors, upgraded lighting, and a spacious family room with a gas-log fireplace.* Take a look here →
🏘️ FOR SALE OVER $400K: 4 BEDROOMS | 2 BATHROOMS | 1,280 SQ FT | .21 ACRES | $450,000
This recently renovated 4-bedroom, 2-bath home features hardwood floors, a front porch, back deck, and fenced yard—all in a prime location with easy access to downtown Raleigh and I-440.* Take a look here →
🏰 FOR SALE OVER $1M: 4 BEDROOMS | 5 BATHROOMS | 4,255 SQ FT | .69 ACRES | $1,620,000
Located in a private community with county taxes only, this home features a rare 4-car garage, main-level owner’s and guest suites, a dedicated study, and wide-plank hardwoods with upgraded trim and designer lighting throughout.* Take a look here →
Raleigh Overtime:
🍴 FOODIE FIND: Centro’s Chicken Tamales is a flavorful dish featuring tender chicken thigh wrapped in corn masa, topped with tomatillo and chipotle sauces, Mexican crema, and Cotija cheese.
🐾 FOR ADOPTION: MOCHI | DOG | 5 MONTHS | FEMALE
Mochi is a sweet, gentle pup who takes her time warming up but has blossomed into a friendly, playful companion, showing her loving personality as she gains confidence and connects with other dogs. Check her out here →
🛍️ GARAGE SALE: Head over to Townes of Westford, Apex on November 22 at 7AM for high-quality home décor, furniture, and women’s clothing, all in excellent, like-new condition. More details here →
📝 LOCAL CLASS: Mixology Class: Home for the Holidays at Little Gem on November 18 at 6:30PM.
This month’s mixology class embraces the holiday spirit with craft cocktails perfect for any celebration, themed “Home for the Holidays.” 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: EORCPRNAMYOT RAT UUMSEM
🌳 Golden Years Gatherings
Handpicked social, cultural, and community events especially for Raleigh’s older adults.
👋 Event of the day: Rolling In Rolesville @ Rolesville Community Center | November 19 | 11AM
The Senior Network Bunco Meet-Up is a twice-monthly gathering at Rolesville Community Center where seniors can play Bunco, win over 100 prizes, and make new friends—no registration required. Get details here →
💲 Senior Discount of the Day: Denny’s | 15% Senior Discount Menu
Denny’s offers 15% off for AARP members (up to $10) and a special senior menu for guests 55+.
Local Vocals:
🎸 This Week: Boz Scaggs | Rock
Boz Scaggs is an American singer, songwriter, and guitarist known for his smooth blend of rock, blues, and soul, highlighted by hits like “Lowdown” and “Lido Shuffle.” | DPAC | November 20, 7:30PM | Get tickets here →
🎤 Plan Ahead: Brit Floyd | Rock
Brit Floyd is a British tribute band renowned for their stunning live performances that faithfully recreate the music and visuals of Pink Floyd’s legendary concerts. | DPAC | March 26, 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: George Janko at Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts | November 22, 7PM | George Janko is an American actor, comedian, and social media personality known for his work on podcasts, comedy sketches, and his appearances in film and television. Get tickets here →
😂 Plan Ahead: DC Curry at Goodnights Comedy Club | January 9-11 | D.C. Curry is an American stand-up comedian, actor, and voice artist known for his bold, charismatic stage presence and sharp, socially conscious humor. Get tickets here →
Find Friends in Raleigh:
Curated social events without an emphasis on alcohol or romance:
👋 Women in Healthcare Book Social @ 600 South Duke Street, Durham | November 20 | 4:30PM
The Women in Healthcare Networking and Book Social is a lively event celebrating women in healthcare with engaging book discussions, networking, and the reveal of the next group read. Get details here →
🤝 Cozy Paint & Cocoa Night @ Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory | November 20 | 6:30PM
An evening of creativity and indulgence at the Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory in Brier Creek, where guests can paint their own masterpiece while savoring hot cocoa and a signature Caramel Apple flight. Get details here →
KAI Sushi & Sake Bar is one of Raleigh’s best hidden gems, with insanely fresh sushi, cozy vibes, and a sake list that keeps surprising me every time I go.
—Nicky, a longtime reader
Oak City Job Openings:
🖥️ WORK-FROM-HOME JOB HIRING IN RALEIGH: Outschool is seeking an Experienced Software Engineer.
💼 CARY JOB: Ulta Beauty, Inc. is seeking a Lead Cashier.
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Hey, y’all: Event info can change—always check the organizer’s site before you go.
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