This month, share your gratitude through fun benefit events, find sporty ways to enjoy the outdoors and learn a little something new.
by Addie Ladner
Picture Perfect
Happy 90th birthday to William B. Umstead State Park! The park’s more than 5,000 acres of winding streams, rock formations and pine and hardwood forests are aglow in autumn tones in November. Each year, The Umstead Coalition holds a photo and illustration contest and exhibition to showcase the park’s natural beauty. Amateur photographer Greg Hamlyn’s shot Moss Rock (shown here) won first place in the Plants and Scenery category in 2024. “I find that some of the best photographic opportunities are during the ‘worst’ weather, like rain and fog,” he says. “That’s when the woods show a different kind of beauty.” On the day Hamlyn took this photo, it had just rained. “Everything was very green, and the air and water temperature created a beautiful haze over the water,” he says. The contest will start taking entries for its 2025 contest in January, and it’s open to all skill levels. Learn more at umsteadcoalition.org
See Raleigh Little Theatre’s Doubt, a Parable
Catch the last few productions of Raleigh Little Theatre’s Doubt, a Parable, based on the novel by John Patrick Shanley. The drama, which examines the contradictions of religion and its crossover into the political world, won a 2005 Tony award for Best Play and the 2005 Pulitzer Prize for Drama. Set in 1964 at the St. Nicholas Church School in the Bronx, the story follows a devout nun who becomes suspicious of a beloved priest — and is faced with the moral decision of how far she will go to unearth his scandalous behavior.
Nov. 1 – 3 | Various times; $31; 301 Pogue Street; raleighlittletheatre.org
Take In the Autumn Color
The Triangle is always aglow ths time of year. Take time during the crisp month to admire the abundance of fall color in our area and the intricate beauty of a single leaf. Here are favorite Raleigh spots for easy hikes with wonderful fall vantage points of those warm shades of crimson and ochre. With lows in the 50s and highs in the 70s, many people in town agree, Raleigh is a wonderful place to be right now.
Head to Cary Theatre for the Old North State Storytelling Festival
The Cary Theatre and the North Carolina Storytelling Guild are hosting a two-day festival for sharing untold stories from our state in various live forms, from spoken word to music. Cary-based Peg Helminski, an award-winning public speaker, author and mentor, will host the festival. The lineup features six unique storytellers who will do three showcases over both days, including Lipbone Redding, a Tarboro-based singer, songwriter and guitarist, and Linda Gorham, a performer known for her captivating renditions of fairy tales and Greek stories. Purchase single-day tickets or a festival package that gets you into three storytelling showcases.
Nov. 1 – 2 | Various times; From $18; 122 E. Chatham Street, Cary; oldnorthstatestorytellingfestival.com
Celebrate the 250th Anniversary of the Edenton Tea Party
The Friends of the North Carolina Archives are hosting their annual gathering on a historic date: the 250th anniversary of the Edenton Tea Party, which took place in 1774. This event was one of the first documented female-led political protests, and it took place not too far from here in the colonial town of Edenton, North Carolina! The protest was in response to the British Parliament’s passing of the Tea Act and the high taxes on English teas and other goods. Held in the auditorium of the State Archives of North Carolina building, this virtual and in-person event will celebrate trailblazing North Carolina women and their political milestones, examine selections from the state archives and conclude with a tea party reception. A highlight of the symposium will be historian, environmental scientist and author Marion Deerhake’s discussion about her research on Eliza Jane Pratt, the first woman to represent North Carolina in the U.S. Congress.
Nov. 1 | 1:30 – 5 p.m. Free; 109 E. Jones Street; ncdcr.gov
Experience Moonlight in the Garden at the JC Raulston Arboretum
Experience the JC Raulston Arboretum at twilight, illuminated by artful light displays. Meander through the garden’s 7 acres, including an interactive exhibit in the Japanese Garden and bold, moving colors in the Xeric and Scree Gardens. “It’s a chance for us to share what a magical place the Arboretum can be at night,” says director Mark Weathington. In addition to live music, kids and grownups alike will enjoy roasting marshmallows and drinking apple cider by the fire pits (included in ticket price), and a host of food trucks. Proceeds from the event benefit this free, public sanctuary with one of the largest and most diverse varieties of native botanicals in the South.
Nov. 2 , 8-9, 14-16 | 5:30 – 9:30 p.m.; from $20; 4415 Beryl Road; jcra.ncsu.edu
Enjoy An Evening with David Sedaris at Martin Marietta Center for Performing Arts
David Sedaris will visit his native Raleigh to talk about his forthcoming book, Happy-Go-Lucky. The best-selling author and comedian will also share never-before-heard writings, conduct a Q&A session with the audience and offer signing opportunities.
Nov. 2 | 8 p.m. From $56; 2 E. South Street; martinmariettacenter.com
Check Out a New-To-You Vintage Shop
When you’re looking for something that no one else has — and ideally, for not full price — vintage wins. Raleigh has a growing community of thrift and vintage stores, including a few that have opened downtown over just the last year or so. Whether you’re in it to find something totally unique, or because you value the sustainability aspect of buying secondhand, each of these vintage stores offers a great selection and its own curated point of view. Here are some of our favorite shops to look for vintage jeans, costume pieces, designer clothes, funky shoes and more.
Run or Walk the Schenck Forest Trail Race
Support Haven House of Raleigh, a nonprofit that helps local youth in need, with a unique running challenge inside the Carl Alwin Schenck Memorial Forest. The 6.2-mile trail consists mainly of a single-track route that winds throughout the forest, crossing streams and bridges, and along the sandy banks of Richland Creek. This race is hosted by FreyHealth24, a local event company that puts on various community and charity races.
Nov. 2 | 8:30 a.m. From $55; Reedy Creek Road; search “Schenck Forest” at runsignup.com
Experience the Paderewski Piano Festival of Raleigh
Since 2014, Raleigh-based Dr. Alvin Fountain II, honorary consul of the Republic of Poland for North Carolina, has organized a concert series to honor Ignacy Jan Paderewski, a Polish linguist, orator and statesman who was active in the late 1800s and early 1900s. “Paderewski was instrumental in helping Poland regain political independence in 1918 and signed the Treaty of Versailles as both its prime minister and foreign minister,” says Fountain. The festival is a series of concerts: the first two at the North Carolina Museum of Art, the second two at St. Mary’s School. Featuring performances by pianists Eric Guo, Gabriel Bortnowski and Michal Szymanowski, the concerts will feature classical music from Paderewski’s era, including pieces by Chopin and Beethoven. In addition to being a politician, Paderewski was a popular musician who first gained fame in Paris in 1889 and performed on more than 20 separate tours in the United States, more than in any other country. “He was the greatest and most renowned pianist of his era. We work at maintaining his importance as a musician, statesman and remarkable philanthropist,” says Fountain.
Nov. 2 – 10 | Various times; From $30; multiple locations; paderewski-festival.org
Run or Walk the City of Oaks Marathon
Perhaps Raleigh’s best-known race, the Martin Marietta City of Oaks Marathon draws thousands of participants each year. With a full marathon, half marathon, 10k and 5k, there are options for all skill levels. Starting on Glenwood Avenue, the race path offers a fun way to see the city on foot. It starts downtown, crosses North Carolina State University’s campus and meanders through Dorothea Dix Park. The race will benefit the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences.
Nov. 3 | 7:20 a.m.; From $50; 400 Glenwood Avenue; cityofoaksmarathon.com
Enjoy Art and Autumn Tea at NCMA
Make a day of exploring special exhibitions Venice and the Ottoman Empire (through Jan. 5, 2025) and Samurai: The Making of a Warrior (through Feb. 2, 2025) in the East Building of the North Carolina Museum of Art. Before or after, take advantage of its Autumn Tea events series, perfect for brunch or lunch. For a fixed price, enjoy a sampling of artisan herbal and black teas with seasonal tea sandwiches, savory canapes and other accoutrements.
Nov. 3 | 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. $75; 2110 Blue Ridge Road; ncartmuseum.org
Take the Kids to the “Ocean” for a Live Animal Feeding
We might be landlocked, but the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences has a 10,000-gallon aquarium that offers an ocean habitat for species like lobsters, balloon fish, grunts and French Angelfish. Take your future marine biologist to the museum on Wednesdays and Fridays this month to watch the live feeding of the Our Changing Oceans aquarium at the Nature Research Center. Walk-ups are welcome and the Living Collections staff will be available for questions during the feeding.
Wednesdays & Fridays | 11 a.m. Free; 11 W. Jones Street; naturalsciences.org
Visit a Classic Raleigh Watering Hole
Looking for a new-to-you place for a casual night out with friends? In our annual survey of hospitality folks — where we ask them where they eat and drink in their off-hours — these longtime bars and under-the-radar watering holes came up again and again. Here’s our vetted list of the classic spots where both pros and long time locals prefer to spend their evenings.
Hear Interesting New Poetry at Gallo Pelón
Paradigm Poetry, a poetry collective based in Raleigh with a mission to make poetry a bigger part of the Triangle’s culture and arts scene, will be performing at Gallo Pelón Mezcaleria downtown. Take advantage of the chance to order from the restaurant’s special menu while listening to nine emerging poets recite their words.
Nov. 7 | 6 – 9 p.m. Free to listen; 106 S. Wilmington Street; gallopelon.com
Celebrate North Carolina Makers at Art Bash!
Show up for the arts in style at Artspace’s annual Art Bash fundraiser. Writer Colony Little and arts advocate Debbie Robbins will serve as honorary co-chairs for an evening that’s part auction, part dance party. The halls will be filled with art for sale as part of the gallery’s 12×12 Artspace Member Showcase, as well as its latest exhibition, FRESH, a showcase of statewide talent juried by Jessica Orzulak of the Asheville Art Museum. There will also be a site-specific creation by Dana Lynn Harper, a nationally renowned sculptor and installation artist. The annual Live Art Bid will offer guests a chance to collect art from established and up-and-coming makers. “The pieces for sale are from some of the most highly regarded artists across North Carolina — and Artspace has played a role in each of their careers, whether it was through our residency programs, exhibitions or studio space,” says Artspace creative director Annah Lee. After the auction, it’s time for music, entertainment and something sweet from Videri Chocolate and The Cupcake Shop.
Nov. 9 | 6 – 10:30 p.m.; From $150; 201 E. Davie Street; artspacenc.org/art-bash
Enjoy Ernani in Concert at the North Carolina Opera
Voyage back to 16th-century Spain to witness a love triangle unfold at the North Carolina Opera’s premiere performance of Ernani at Meymandi Concert Hall. Jakob Lehmann will conduct the piece (performed in Italian with English supertitles) with a seasoned cast that includes award-winning soprano Leah Crocetto and Italian tenor Giorgio Berrugi. “This rarely-performed Verdi gem is packed with passion, betrayal and high-stakes political intrigue, all set to some of the composer’s most thrilling orchestrations,” says Angela Grant, director of marketing at the North Carolina Opera. “Prepare for a night of operatic drama at its finest.”
Nov. 10 | 2 p.m.; From $24; 2 E. South Street; ncopera.org
See P!NK LIVE 2024 at the Lenovo Center
So raise your glass if you want to jam out to longtime pop artist P!nk. Known for her empowering, feel-good lyrics and punk influences, Alecia Beth Moore Hart, aka P!nk, has been a chart-topper in the music scene since her first record, Can’t Take Me Home, was released in 2000. Country-pop performer Maren Morris and international DJ KidCutUp will open for her at the recently renamed Lenovo Center (formerly PNC Arena) for two back-to-back shows.
Nov. 11 & 12 | 7:30 p.m.; From $130; 1400 Edwards Mill Road; lenovocenter.com
Honor Arts Access North Carolina at its Ruby Celebration
The nonprofit Arts Access North Carolina is dedicated to making sure the arts are inclusive and accessible to individuals living with disabilities. “From our early days of providing venues with wheelchairs for patrons to collaborating with arts organizations to increase awareness of accessibility services, to now, with our gallery, this is the heart of our work,” says executive director Eileen Bagnall. To celebrate its 40th year, the organization is hosting a celebration with live and silent auctions, entertainment and the premiere of Forty Years of Stories, a documentary about the organization, at Marbles Kids Museum. Food will be provided by Mitchell+Casteel catering.
Nov. 15 | 7 – 10 p.m.; $75 for a single ticket, $125 for two; 201 E. Hargett Street; artsaccessinc.org
See the Raleigh Fine Arts Society’s NC Artists Exhibition and enjoy the BEAS Annual Luncheon
CAM Raleigh will host its 11th annual Betty Eichenberger Adams Society (BEAS) luncheon this month with a theme of “the art of friendship.” The afternoon will bring together women committed to championing CAM’s mission of inspiring community through contemporary art. Guests will enjoy lunch and dessert, along with champagne and wine, and hear remarks from sculptor Holly Fischer. Fischer’s work is included in the Raleigh Fine Arts Society’s NC Artists Exhibition, a juried selection of 70 works currently on view at CAM. All proceeds benefit CAM’s programming and community initiatives.
Nov. 15 | 11:30 a.m.; From $100; 409 W. Martin Street; camraleigh.org
Watch Brian K & The Parkways Performance at Neptune
Shortly after the Hopscotch day party, Brian K & the Parkways are returning to Raleigh mid-November. The DC-area duo is back on the road after the debut of their album Killing the Bear which leans on inspiration from ‘70s rock influences, soul and R&B. Compared to the likes of Bruce Springsteen, John Mayer, Elvis Costello and Tom Petty, the group, formed in 2021, is looking forward to the Raleigh show in conjunction with local band Step Friends.
Nov. 16 | 7 p.m.; $10; 14 W Martin Street; briankandtheparkway.com
Practice Mindfulness and Yoga in the Gardens of the Gregg Museum of Art + Design
NC State’s Gregg Museum of Art + Design is tucked within a peaceful garden, just off bustling Hillsborough Street. In addition to its exhibitions, the museum offers a host of wellness programs, including Mindfulness in the Museum, a free yoga series done in partnership with the nearby Alexander Family YMCA. Enjoy this chance to participate in a gentle yoga class in a natural setting before the weather gets too cold. Bring your water, a mat and an open mind.
Nov. 20 | 11 a.m. – 12 p.m.; Free; 1903 Hillsborough Street; gregg.arts.ncsu.edu
Support Western NC at the Southern Smoke Foundation Dinner
Two James Beard Award-nominated chefs from North Carolina have teamed up to raise funds for Hurricane Helene recovery. Wilmington-based Dean Neff, who is known for his elevated fish fare, will partner with Triangle-based Preeti Waas, who serves dishes inspired by her Indian heritage at Cheeni in Durham. The meal will be family-style and include a to-go dessert auction celebrating pastry chefs in areas hit by the storm. The funds raised will go toward individuals in the hospitality industry affected by the storm through the Southern Smoke Foundation, a nonprofit that supports workers in the food and beverage sector during times of crisis.
$150; 202 Corcoran Street, Suite 100, Durham; cheenidurham.com
See Carolina Ballet’s Carmina Burana
O Fortuna! Famed composer and choreographer Lynne Taylor-Corbett (known for her narrative-driven choreography work in films such as Footloose and Bewitched) offers a modern spin on Carl Orff’s dramatic, familiar score. Set on Wall Street, Taylor-Corbett’s ballet tells the story of a life transformed with a lottery win. The Carolina Ballet will be accompanied by a live orchestra and the North Carolina Master Chorale.
Nov. 21 – 24 | Various times; From $28; 2 E. South Street; carolinaballet.com
Attend Seagrove’s Pottery Festival Weekend
Choose from two spectacular pottery festivals in the Seagrove area this weekend. Kickoff the weekend with the Celebration of Seagrove Potters show that includes a gala, catered reception and preview party on Friday night, with the actual show held on Saturday and Sunday. The celebration features 28 Seagrove pottery shop booths, silent auction, demos, food trucks and more. Additionally, check out Seagrove’s 42nd Annual Seagrove Pottery Festival. Enjoy a weekend filled with stunning artisan pottery, delicious food vendors and family-friendly activities. Meet talented potters, explore unique crafts and experience the rich tradition of Seagrove’s pottery heritage.
Nov. 22 – 24 | Various times; From $5; discoverseagrove.com; seagrovepotteryfestival.com
Get in the Spirit at the Raleigh Christmas Parade
Head downtown for the City of Oaks’ kickoff to the holidays, presented by Shop Local Raleigh. Bundle up and pack hot cocoa and lawn chairs to watch the largest holiday parade in the Southeast. The parade starts at the corner of St. Mary’s and Hillsborough Streets, heads for the State Capitol, then winds down Fayetteville and ends on McDowell. Don’t feel like getting out that day? Set up in front of the television to catch the festivities on ABC11.
Nov. 23 | 9:30 a.m.; Free; downtown Raleigh; grma.org/christmas-parade
Hear Weston Estate at The Ritz
Self-proclaimed as “ya aunties favorite boyband,” this five-member R&B group has local origins and is playing at The Ritz this month as part of its Superbloom tour. After getting its start in the Triangle with two NC State students, Weston Estate has now amassed over half a million monthly listeners on Spotify. With music that effortlessly blends genres, the group has become known for its energetic performances. Make sure to catch this band at their hometown show.
Nov. 29 | 7 p.m; From $48; 2820 Industrial Drive; ritzraleigh.com
This article originally appeared in the November, 2024 issue of WALTER magazine.
