The third annual Dreamville Festival, hosted by rapper and NC-native J. Cole, is coming to Raleigh April 1st and 2nd. Thousands of fans from across the country will flock to the historic Dorothea Dix Park to watch their favorite musical artists perform live less than 2 miles away from the heart of NC’s capital city: Downtown Raleigh.
Downtown is a convenient and central location for Dreamville attendees to spend their time away from festival grounds. It’s a vibrant center of activity home to a thriving creative culture and small business community.
Dreamville Festival describes itself as a “one-of-a-kind celebration of local culture, food, and art.” So in the spirit of Dreamville’s love for all things local, we put together this guide of unique, locally-owned businesses and attractions for festival-goers visiting Downtown Raleigh.
“Dancing Queen” – Baby Tate
Order a drink (or two) at one of these fun downtown bars & nightlife concepts. Learn how you can enjoy alcoholic beverages while walking around the city in the Sip N' Stroll Downtown social district.
The Architect Bar and Social House
House of Art
Johnson Street Yacht Club
Junction West
Neptunes Parlour
The Pour House Music Hall & Record Shop
Ruby Deluxe
Slim’s Downtown Distillery
William & Company
Zenith Raleigh
“Drip” - City Girls
Grab any last-minute clothing, shoes, or accessories for your festival fit to make sure you’re looking fresh. Find more shopping in Downtown Raleigh.
Black Friday Market
Edge of Urge
Father and Son Antiques
Munjo Munjo
One of One Boutique
Sircastleteees
Social Status
Unlikely Professionals
Unorthodox Vintage
“Up Late” – Ari Lennox
End your long day with a much-needed meal at one of these Downtown Raleigh eateries serving food late into the evening. Need some fuel before the day starts? Check out our list of restaurants serving breakfast.
Char-Grill
El Rodeo Mexican Restaurant
Gringo A Go Go
Hibernian Irish Pub & Restaurant
MoJoe’s Burger Joint
Morgan Street Food Hall
The Pizza Times
Tin Roof
The London Bridge Pub
The Station at Person Street
Vic's Italian Cafe & Pizzeria
Woody’s at City Market
Benny Capitale's Pizza
“Photograph” - J. Cole
Here’s some picture-worthy public art in Downtown Raleigh, tag us on Instagram to be featured!
8-bit to 5G
All Are Welcome
LOVERULES
Parks for the People
SECU Daily Planet
The Mount Rapmore of the 2010s
“Dopamine” - Bas
Stay entertained and have fun during your downtime exploring the city.
Artspace
Boxcar Bar and Arcade
The Burrow
CAM Raleigh
Epic Axe
Hunky Dory
Lump Gallery
NERD Escape Room
Original Selfie Museum
Side Quest Game Lounge and Bar
“The Ride” - Drake
Transportation options to-and-from the festival and ways to get around Downtown Raleigh.
- Dreamville Festival’s official Downtown Shuttles
- Parking areas in Downtown Raleigh
- Alternative modes of transportation throughout Raleigh including self-serve bicycle and scooter rentals
- Bus routes between Downtown Raleigh and Dorothea Dix Park
Dreamville Parties in Downtown Raleigh
Hops on Wax Vol. 2 ⎻ State of Beer
Friday, March 31
State of Beer is kicking off Dreamville weekend with an open deck hosted by Oak City Soul from 6-11pm, followed by a DJ set to get you through the evening. While you vibe out to some local DJs, dig through some vinyl record crates.
Dreamville Festival Pop-up Bar ⎻ House of Art
Friday, March 31 & Saturday, April 1
House of Art is a non-traditional pop-up bar at a historic house across from Moore Square in the heart of downtown Raleigh. They showcase local artists of various talents, which can be experienced through the decor, drinks, music, and events.
Gold Mouf Garage: Dreamville Day Party Pop-Up ⎻ Raleigh Union Station
Friday, March 31
Dreamville artist Gold Mouf is hosting a pop-up day party at Raleigh Union Station featuring live music and shopping from vendors including Downtown Raleigh retailer One of One Lab Boutique.
Up With Olu & ZiZi: Dreamville Mindfulness Session ⎻ Dose Yoga Studio & Smoothie Bar
Friday, March 31
“Up With Olu & ZiZi” is back at it again for year 2! Join this mindfulness session to ground you pre-festival with vibes by DJ Dark Knight. The event is free with RSVP but space is limited.
J.Reid & Maison de LaFlare Showroom Dreamville Weekend ⎻ Rolley
Friday, March 31
J.Reid & Maison de LaFlare present a new showroom during Dreamville Weekend. Including new collection pieces and complimentary champagne.
Neptunesville ⎻ Neptunes Parlour
Sunday, April 2
Wrap-up Dreamville Weekend with a comedy show featuring a lineup of some of the hottest comics Raleigh has to offer: Lauren Polli, Chris Rivoli, Aaron Ransom, and Helen Wildy.