January 16–19
Dreamfest Cultural Arts Celebration
Various locations, Cary
Cary’s annual celebration of the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. kicks off with a weekend of
events designed to inspire. Expect a mix of cultural performances, service projects, and thoughtful dialogue that
brings the community together to reflect on the dream and the work still ahead.
January 17
Loudon Wainwright III
Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts, Raleigh
Spend an evening with a songwriting legend. Grammy winner Loudon Wainwright III brings his signature
blend of wit, honesty, and poignant storytelling to the A.J. Fletcher Opera Theater. It’s an intimate show,
perfect for anyone who appreciates lyrics that can make you laugh and cry in the same breath.
January 17
NC MLK Black History Month Parade
Fayetteville Street, Durham
There is perhaps no better place to honor the legacy of Dr. King than in Durham. The annual parade down
Fayetteville Street is a vibrant, community-centered tradition featuring marching bands, steppers, community
organizations, and floats. It’s a spirited celebration of history and progress that culminates in a rally to keep the dream alive.
January 24
CINCH World’s Toughest Rodeo
Lenovo Center, Raleigh
Dust off your boots for a night of high-adrenaline action. This isn’t your average rodeo; expect edge-of-your-seat
bull riding, saddle bronc riding, and barrel racing that brings the spirit of the Wild West right into the heart of Raleigh.
It’s a loud, lively night out for the whole family.
January 30
Appalachian Road Show
Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts, Raleigh
If you love the stories behind the music, don’t miss this. Appalachian Road Show combines bluegrass and
folk with the rich history of the Appalachian region. It’s more than a concert; it’s a cultural journey filled with
incredible musicianship and the authentic sounds of the mountains.
February 5–22
Carolina Ballet: Carmen Suite
Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts, Raleigh
The Carolina Ballet heats up the winter with Carmen Suite. This production captures all the passion, drama,
and fiery spirit of the classic opera but translates it into breathtaking movement. It’s a visually stunning performance
that promises to be a highlight of the cultural season.
February 6–22
Moonlight and Magnolias
Raleigh Little Theatre, Raleigh
Ever wonder how Gone with the Wind was written? This hilarious behind-the-scenes comedy imagines the frantic
three weeks when producer David O. Selznick locked his director and screenwriter in a room to salvage the script.
Expect peanuts, bananas, and plenty of laughs in this witty look at Hollywood history.
February 13
GPAC Jazz Club: Languages of Love
Garner Performing Arts Center, Garner
Just in time for Valentine’s Day, let chanteuse Jessica Fichot take you on a musical trip around the world.
Fichot blends French chanson, Shanghai jazz, and gypsy swing into a sound that is both nostalgic and modern.
It’s a romantic, cozy way to spend a Friday night in Garner.
February 17
NC State vs. UNC Men’s Basketball
Lenovo Center, Raleigh
Experience the electric atmosphere as the Wolfpack takes on rival UNC. Even if you aren’t a die-hard State fan,
the energy is undeniable, especially heading into March Madness. It’s fast-paced, loud, and quintessentially
Wolfpack—a bucket-list sporting event right in our backyard.
February 20
Andrea Bocelli
Lenovo Center, Raleigh
One of the world’s most beloved tenors returns to Raleigh for a night of soaring vocals. Whether you are an opera
aficionado or just love a voice that can fill an arena, seeing Andrea Bocelli live is a bucket-list experience. Expect a
setlist that spans his iconic repertoire and touches the heart.
February 20
Sirens of Song
Wake Forest Renaissance Centre, Wake Forest
Celebrate the ladies of the mic with this tribute to the iconic women of music. From soul and R&B to pop anthems,
this concert honors the voices that have shaped the soundscape of our lives. It’s a perfect girls’ night out or date
night in downtown Wake Forest.
February 27
PineCone Presents: Peter Rowan
Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts, Raleigh
End the month with a true bluegrass legend. Peter Rowan’s career spans decades and genres, from his time with
Bill Monroe to his solo work. His voice and guitar-playing are woven into the fabric of American roots music,
making this a must-see for folk and bluegrass fans.
February 27–March 5
Nevermore Film Festival
Carolina Theatre, Durham
For those who like their cinema with a side of thrills, the Nevermore Film Festival is a Durham institution.
Now in its 27th year, this jury-selected festival showcases brand-new horror, science fiction, and mystery films
from around the world. Expect a mix of edge-of-your-seat features and creative shorts that you won’t see anywhere else.
