Student Film Festival at The Cary Theater (With Big Future Director Energy 🎬)
Free films, real talent, and a full day of “wait...they made that?” moments.
Shannon
April 18, 2026
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Future Oscar winners are warming up, and you’ve got a front-row seat. The NCACC 100 Strong Productions Student Film Festival lands April 25 with a keynote from Deborah Holt Noel, a full block of student films, filmmaker Q&A, and an awards ceremony to close it all out.
Want the full schedule and registration link? Definitely worth a look before you go.
Not sponsored. We just have a soft spot for rising stars. (Just so you know: Sponsored content in our newsletter is always marked with “*”).
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The 919 Deal Drop:
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Happy hour starts daily at 4:30PM—no secret code required, just show up ready for good drinks and an early start to the evening.
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Raleigh Overtime:
🍴 FOODIE FIND: Mother and Sons’ Hearth Roasted Potatoes are smoked until tender, seared until golden, and finished with rosemary for a rich, standout side dish.
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🛍️ GARAGE SALE: Head over to 224 Ravensworth Dr, Garner on April 25 at 7AM for the Annandale Spring Community Yard Sale featuring multiple homes and a wide variety of items. More details here →
📝 LOCAL CLASS: Learn to Kokedama at Urban Pothos Houseplant Shop on April 19 at 5PM.
This workshop explores the Japanese art of kokedama, guiding participants in creating a moss-wrapped living plant sculpture while learning care and maintenance techniques. 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: Senior Services Expo @ South Park Community Center | April 22
A community-focused expo with 50+ local providers offering resources, activities, and opportunities to meet others in a relaxed setting. Get details here →
💲 Senior Discount of the Day: Golden Corral | Early Bird Senior Special
Golden Corral offers an Early Bird Senior Special with discounted buffet pricing during select hours.
Local Vocals:
🎸 This Week: Concrete Boys | Hip-Hop
Concrete Boys is a hip-hop collective led by Lil Yachty, known for their experimental sound and collaborative releases blending trap, alternative, and underground influences. | Lincoln Theatre | April 21, 8PM | Get tickets here →
🎤 Plan Ahead: Carin Leon | Latin
Carin León is a Mexican singer and songwriter known for his powerful voice and modern take on regional Mexican music, including genres like banda and norteño. | Lenovo Center | June 13, 8PM | Get tickets here →
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Let’s Get Laughing:
🎤 This Week: Connor Wood at Carolina Theatre | April 22, 6PM | Connor Wood is an American comedian and content creator known for his witty, self-aware humor and viral videos on social media platforms. Get tickets here →
😂 Plan Ahead: Ian Lara at Goodnights Comedy Club | July 17-19 | Ian Lara is an American stand-up comedian known for his laid-back delivery, sharp observational humor, and appearances on shows like The Tonight Show. Get tickets here →
Find Friends in Raleigh:
Curated social events without an emphasis on alcohol or romance:
👋 Spring Umstead Hike @ Umstead State Park Reedy Creek Entrance | April 19 | 5PM
Meet at the Harrison Ave entrance for a relaxed, social hike with optional dogs (leashed), combining light exercise with meaningful conversation in a natural setting. Get details here →
🤝 Camp Royall Classic Golf Tournament @ Governors Club | April 20 | 10AM
The day kicks off with a 10 AM shotgun start and lunch on the course, followed by a dessert social, awards ceremony, and a chance to putt for a cash prize. Get details here →
You have to check out Howling Cow if you haven’t already. It's this tucked-away dairy spot on NC State’s campus where you can actually see the cows and then grab some of the freshest ice cream around. It’s got that wholesome, farm-meets-campus vibe, and the scoops? Legendary.
—James, a longtime reader
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