It’s fall y’all. The long, hot days of summer are officially behind us and now it’s time for crunchy leaves, foggy mornings, and the musky-sweet smell of autumn air.
As the oak trees that line our streets start turning shades of orange and red, you’re probably wondering how you can embrace the season of change when you’re spending time in Downtown Raleigh. So we compiled a list of things to eat, buy, and try that celebrate this enchanting time of year and support local businesses at the same time.
Now raise your PSLs, and let’s cheers to the end of triple-digit temperatures and the start of cozy nights, festive food & drinks, exciting events, and Halloween celebrations.
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Shopping
The Bath Place – The drier weather can be harsh on your skin so take care of it with some natural, moisturizing soap and other organic skincare products.
The Burrow – Each weekend this market & event space comes alive with local vendors, live DJs, and more for a hip shopping experience.
Crude Bitters & The Bittery – Add a bit of spice to your dinner parties with festive cocktails using earthy, seasonal bitters.
Davis + Rhodes Home – You can pick up everything you need to give your space that snug, autumn ambiance at Davis + Rhodes Home such as candle or throw.
Decree Company – The holidays are right around the corner but Decree Company has you covered for all your invites, thank you cards, and other stationery needs.
Munjo Munjo – Find Halloween-themed art, comics, and clothing made by local artists all under one roof.
Raleigh Denim Workshop + Curatory – Elevate your cold-weather wardrobe with tailor-made denim from one of Raleigh’s premiere clothing brands.
Reign Luxury Beauty Lounge – Treat yourself to a fresh set of autumn-themed nails in Reign’s serene, glamorous studio.
So & So Books – Nothing is better than cozying up with a good read on a chilly day, especially if it’s a thrilling ghost story.
Food & Drink
Dram & Draught – The mixology at Dram & Draught is on point with creative ingredient combinations in their new seasonal selection that taste like fall in your mouth.
Layered Croissanterie – The bakery’s October menu is quirky, thematic, and inspired by Halloween movies like the delicious Beetlejuice croissant.
The Parlor at Heights House – If you’re looking for a high-end, fall cocktail experience, the Parlor is now open to the public inside of The Heights House Hotel.
Raleigh Raw Juice Bar and Cafe – Head over to W. Hargett St. for a satisfying treat from their fall menu that features clean, fresh autumnal flavors.
Short Walk Wines – Relish in the cool weather on Short Walk’s breezy, outdoor patio and have a Hallo-wine sampling with your friends.
Sir Walter Coffee – Sir Walter Coffee is offering spicetacular drink specials ranging from tea to nitro cold brew, but a pumpkin spice latte is always a classic choice.
Two Roosters Ice Cream – Switch up your typical ice cream order and try the new October menu inspired by local food influencers.
Tasty Beverage Co. – Grab a pack (or two) of craft, autumnal brews for football Sundays.
Events & Activities
Beer & Banjos – The Raleigh Times Bar
Weekly on Tuesdays
Each week, The Raleigh Times transforms its upstairs into a hotspot for local bluegrass and delicious brews.
Cinema in the Square: Ghostbusters Afterlife – Moore Square
Thursday, October 27
Cinema in the Square is getting spooky with a haunted showing of Ghostbusters: Afterlife (2021). Before the movie, The Ghost Guild NC will host an interactive presentation about Raleigh's haunted history and findings from their investigations around the city. But that's not all, there will be a slime-making activity and a photo-op with Slimer from the original Ghostbusters.
Sir Walter Coffee's Monster Mash – Sir Walter Coffee
Thursday, October 27
This Halloween celebration is ideal for both kids and adults with live music, drink specials, face-painting, and other spooky activities.
Kooky Spooky – Marbles Kids Museum
Friday, October 28
Experience the magic of Marbles after dark at this family-friendly Halloween spooktacular with activities like the Mad Scientist Lab, Monster Mash Dance Party, and more!
Spirits of Boxcar Halloween Party – Boxcar Bar + Arcade
Saturday, October 29
Do you think your costume is the best around? Enter Boxcar's Halloween costume contest to see for yourself.
Day of the Dead 5k – Centro Mexican Restaurant
Saturday, October 29
Get fit while giving back to the community during Centro’s 5K charity race and Día de los Muertos celebration.
Halloween at the Market – Moore Square
Sunday, October 30
Moore Square Market is getting festive for the last market of the 2022 season with special guests, live music, and more.
Carolina Ballet presents Dracula – Duke Energy Center for the Performing Arts
Thursday, October 13 – Sunday, October 30
Watch one of the most iconic, chilling tales as it's adapted into a graceful ballet performance.
A Heights House Halloween – The Parlor at Heights House
Monday, October 31
Celebrate Halloween in style at this iconic Boylan Heights mansion.