Raleigh events and highlights in Raleigh, North Carolina

Raleigh is buzzing with excitement as a variety of events unfold this April, offering residents and visitors a chance to engage with the community and celebrate the season.

 

On April 17, music enthusiasts can experience the electrifying beats of It’s Murph, a rising DJ known for his high-tech remixes, performing at The Ritz as part of the Weightless Tour.

 

That same evening, Watts & Ward commemorates its nine-year anniversary with an intimate gathering featuring specialty cocktails, live music, and their signature timeless ambiance.

 

Opera lovers are in for a treat on April 17 and 19 with Il Trovatore at the Martin Marietta Center. This dramatic performance promises a night of soaring vocals and intense storytelling.

 

Artspace hosts its second annual Arts on the Block on April 17 and 19, transforming the area into a vibrant celebration of visual arts, complete with DJ sets, exhibitions, and interactive artist-led demonstrations.

 

April 18 marks the Earth Yay! festival at Walnut Creek, organized by The Great Raleigh Cleanup. The event features sunrise yoga, a community cleanup, and an afternoon fair showcasing local vendors and artisans.

 

Music lovers can enjoy Music at the Market on April 18, where Oak City Soul’s vinyl DJs provide the perfect soundtrack for a lively picnic at Dix Park.

 

Barbecue aficionados won't want to miss the 16th annual NC ’Cuegrass Festival on April 18, bringing together delicious barbecue from The Pit, local brews, and nonstop live performances in downtown Raleigh.

 

Families can welcome the season at Spring Fest on April 18, hosted by Big Cat and The Optimist, featuring food trucks, vendors, games, and beer.

 

On April 18, SustainabiliDAY at Marbles Kids Museum offers an opportunity to learn about environmentally friendly materials and practices, emphasizing that every day should be a sustainabiliday.

 

Foodies can indulge at Tacos ’N Taps on April 18, sampling over 30 types of tacos from various vendors and washing them down with a selection of craft beers, mezcals, margaritas, and tequilas.

 

On April 19, Bespoke Pop-Up brings Wilmington’s Bespoke café and bar to Sous Terre for a special evening with guest bartender Robby Dow.

 

Vinyl enthusiasts can explore the Capital City Record Show on April 19 at Tap Yard, featuring three vinyl DJs, food trucks, and door prizes.

 

For those looking to enhance their mixology skills, the Cocktails & Cuisine Class on April 19 at The Willard offers lessons on crafting unique tequila and mezcal-based cocktails.

 

Non-alcoholic beverage lovers can attend Garden Mocktails on April 19 at Current Wellness, learning to create refreshing drinks using garden ingredients like strawberries, mint, and cucumber.

 

On April 19, Pop, Cluck & Shuck at RBF and Hank’s Downtown Dive offers a patio party featuring fried chicken, Champagne, oysters, and live music.

 

Mahjong enthusiasts can join the 2026 Mahjong Card Party on April 21 at Good Graces, featuring open play with the new 2026 cards and real money on the line.

 

Literature fans can meet Maria Semple, author of "Where’d You Go, Bernadette," on April 21 at Quail Ridge Books, as she discusses her latest novel, "Go Gentle."

 

On April 24, the City of Raleigh hosts the 5th annual Raleigh Earth Day at Dix Park’s Harvey Hill. This family-friendly event includes earth-conscious vendors, live performances, hands-on activities, and concludes with an outdoor movie under the stars.

 

Neighboring Apex celebrates EarthFest on April 25 at the Town Hall Campus, focusing on sustainable fashion with a clothing exchange, fashion show, and workshops.

 

With such a diverse lineup of events, Raleigh offers something for everyone to enjoy this April.