Pimento Cheese Festival Returns to Downtown Cary Park
50+ vendors, live music, and the South’s cheesiest creations—literally.
Shannon
April 09, 2026
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If you’ve never had pimento cheese ice cream, this is your moment. The 2026 Pimento Cheese Festival is back on April 11 (11 AM–4 PM), bringing 50+ vendors, live music, games, and wildly creative dishes to Downtown Cary Park. Think egg rolls, empanadas, and more—all starring the South’s favorite spread. There’s even a sculpting contest, because of course there is.
Want to map out your must-eats and can’t-miss performances? Take a peek at the full schedule, vendor lineup, and park map before you go. Strategy is key when cheese is involved.
Not sponsored—just deeply committed to dairy-based decisions 🧀 (Just so you know: Sponsored content in our newsletter is always marked with “*”).
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The 919 Deal Drop:
Don’t miss half off apps at Woody’s 🔥
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📍Where: Woody’s at City Market
📅 When: Monday-Friday, 3:30-5:30PM
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Raleigh Overtime:
🍴 FOODIE FIND: Brodeto’s King Salmon is served with chili oil, citrus crème, and crispy shallots.
🐾 FOR ADOPTION: NALA | DOG | 4 MONTHS | FEMALE
Nala is a gentle, shy puppy who blossoms into an affectionate and loving companion with a little patience. Check her out here →
🛍️ GARAGE SALE: Head over to 2810 Glover Rd on April 11 at 8AM for a must-see clear-out sale packed with antique furniture, dolls, collectibles, framed art, and a wide mix of household finds from every corner of the property. More details here →
📝 LOCAL CLASS: Machine Learning: Intro To Power Tools at Rockler Woodworking and Hardware on April 10 at 11AM.
This introductory class teaches the safe and effective use of common woodworking power tools, focusing on proper handling, setup, and essential safety practices to build workshop confidence. 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: Stretch and Refresh @ DCP Academy Pavilion | April 13 | 10AM
An hour-long senior-friendly Stretch and Refresh class at Downtown Cary Park with Dr. Carlie Huberman focuses on improving mobility and flexibility in a fun, safe, chair-based group setting. Get details here →
💲 Senior Discount of the Day: Brigs Restaurants | 7% Off Entrees
Guests 65+ can enjoy a 7% discount on adult entrees (excluding sides & drinks) at Brigs’ family of restaurants anytime, all week.
Local Vocals:
🎸 This Week: Bush | Rock
Bush is a British rock band known for their post-grunge sound and 1990s hits like “Glycerine” and “Comedown.” | Red Hat Amphitheater | April 14, 7PM | Get tickets here →
🎤 Plan Ahead: Kesha | Pop
Kesha is an American singer and songwriter known for her bold pop style, rebellious image, and hits like “Tik Tok” and “Praying.” | Coastal Credit Union Music Park at Walnut Creek | June 10, 7PM | Get tickets here →
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Let’s Get Laughing:
🎤 This Week: Joe Machi at Goodnights Comedy Club | April 11-12 | Joe Machi is an American stand-up comedian known for his offbeat delivery, quirky persona, and appearances on shows like Last Comic Standing and The Tonight Show. Get tickets here →
😂 Plan Ahead: Ashley Gavin at Goodnights Comedy Club | June 4-6 | Ashley Gavin is an American stand-up comedian known for her bold, crowd-interactive style and sharp, unapologetic humor. Get tickets here →
Find Friends in Raleigh:
Curated social events without an emphasis on alcohol or romance:
👋 Let's Get Silly Raleigh! Pickleball League @ Pin Point Indoor Pickleball & Golf | April 12 | 1PM
An 8-week social pickleball league in Raleigh welcoming all skill levels, offering fun matches and a great way to meet new people. Get details here →
🤝 Mahjong & Wine @ Unwined on White | April 12 | 3PM
An afternoon at Unwined on White featuring mahjong, wine, sweet treats, and a relaxed, social atmosphere for connection and fun. Get details here →
Pine State Coffee is one of those spots you might miss if you didn't know better. They roast their own beans from places like Guatemala and Honduras, so every cup is fresh and flavorful. It's not just a coffee shop…they've got this cool selection of cycling gear too. The vibe is relaxed, making it a great place to chill or get some work done. And if you're into supporting local businesses that put care into their craft, this is the place to be.
—Bill, a longtime reader
Oak City Job Openings:
🖥️ WORK-FROM-HOME JOB HIRING IN RALEIGH: Elite Asia is seeking an English Transcriptionist Remote.
💼 MORRSVILLE JOB: Cracker Barrel is seeking a Server.
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