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Hello friends!
Happy Friday, May 22nd! As we celebrate America’s 250th anniversary year, today marks a special moment in our nation’s story of innovation. On this day in 1906, the Wright Brothers were granted their patent for the “flying machine” — a milestone that helped lift the United States (and the world) into the age of aviation.
Here’s to big dreams, American ingenuity, and another beautiful day ahead. Wishing you a wonderful Thursday filled with inspiration!
Now let’s go enjoy the weekend! 🎉
See you out there in beautiful Wake,
Diane
—Philippians 4:6
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.”
It’s Happy Hour time! 🍹 Grab your favorite people, meet up with great friends, enjoy good food, refreshing drinks, and make some fun memories around Wake County this weekend. There’s no better way to unwind than sharing laughs and good times together! ➡️CLICK HERE FOR A FULL LIST OF HAPPY HOURS IN YOUR AREA!⬅️
Do you own a restaurant with amazing happy hour specials or weekly deals? Let us know — we’d love to feature your business in the Wake News & Events newsletter and add you to the list.
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Laughter really is good medicine! A good laugh can reduce stress, boost your mood, strengthen connections with others, and even help your body relax. So go ahead — smile more, laugh often, and enjoy the little moments that make life fun.
Why did the baseball team hire a baker?
Because they needed a better batter! ⚾🥖 Turns out, he was great at making dough,
always knew how to handle a good roll, and every time he stepped up to the plate…
the crowd said his hits were simply batter than everyone else’s!
Today’s Cheapest Gas Prices in the Wake County area! (See Prices Here)
Introducing our brand-new featured section — Everything North Carolina! 🌄 From hidden gems and small-town charm to scenic adventures, local eats, festivals, beaches, mountains, wildlife, road trips, and unforgettable places to explore, this section is all about celebrating the very best of North Carolina. Whether you’re looking for weekend inspiration, family fun, travel ideas, or just want to discover something new in our beautiful state, you’ll want to follow along every week. There’s always something amazing happening in North Carolina!
🎌 Animazement 2026: Raleigh’s Premier Anime Convention
Get ready for a fun-filled weekend as Animazement returns to Raleigh from May 22–24, 2026. This popular event is North Carolina’s largest celebration of Japanese anime, manga, gaming, and pop culture. Held at the Raleigh Convention Center in downtown Raleigh (500 S. Salisbury Street), the fan-run convention attracts thousands of enthusiasts each year with its energetic and welcoming atmosphere.
Attendees can enjoy a wide variety of activities including exciting cosplay contests and masquerade shows, informative panels and workshops, live concerts, and engaging performances. The massive Artist Alley and Dealer’s Room offer unique handmade art, prints, and exclusive merchandise, while gaming rooms, guest autographs, and special events keep the fun going all weekend long.
The convention runs Thursday through Sunday, with the biggest crowds and most activities happening from Thursday to Saturday. Full-weekend badges provide the best experience, though single-day tickets are also available. At-door pricing is approximately $75 for adults and $60 for children (ages 6–12) for the full weekend, with lower rates for pre-registration. Kids 5 and under enter free.
This year’s highlights include popular voice actor guests such as Hiroaki Hirata, along with autograph sessions, cultural workshops, and a vibrant cosplay scene perfect for photos and community connection. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to anime culture, Animazement delivers an immersive and memorable experience right in the heart of downtown Raleigh.
Tickets and full details are available at www.animazement.com. Don’t miss this highlight of the Memorial Day weekend in the Triangle!
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📩🏡 If you want to chat about making a move, fill out this FORM and I can contact you with information!
Meet Marie our local sponsor. As a former teacher turned realtor, I help families relocate to Wake County with expert guidance on school zoning and the market. I’m all about making the process stress-free and enjoyable. When I’m not working, I’m probably fostering dogs, reading, or supporting local businesses! Follow me on social media for real estate tips, local updates, and cute pups!
Check Out Our New Downloadable Home Buyer’s Guide! 👇
Stay in the know with our quick news tidbits! 📰 This feature is packed with short, easy-to-read updates, local buzz, community happenings, and helpful info designed to keep you informed without taking up your whole day.
Deadly Crash Closes US 64 Westbound in Zebulon
A fatal crash shut down the westbound lanes of U.S. 64 in the Zebulon area on Monday afternoon, causing major traffic delays across eastern Wake County.
The single-vehicle crash, which involved a vehicle fire, resulted in one fatality. Emergency responders were on scene quickly, and the westbound lanes have since reopened.
Our thoughts are with the family and loved ones of the victim. Please drive safely and remain alert while traveling through the area.
Crime & Arrests in Wake County
The Wake County Sheriff’s Office and the DEA conducted a joint raid in Wake Forest, leading to the arrest of two individuals on cocaine trafficking charges.
In a separate incident, a teacher at Broughton High School in Raleigh was arrested and has resigned following multiple child sex crime charges.
Housing-Median Price Reaches $470,000
The median price for homes in Wake County has climbed to $470,000, continuing the steady upward trend in local real estate costs. Strong buyer demand and low inventory are driving the increase across the Triangle.
Wake Students Shine at State Envirothon
Wake County students took home top honors at the North Carolina State Envirothon, showcasing exceptional knowledge in environmental science, ecology, and natural resources.
The local teams performed impressively against competitors from across the state in this prestigious competition.
Happy Memorial Day! Memorial Day is much more than the unofficial start of summer — it is a day set aside to honor and remember the brave men and women who gave their lives while serving in the United States military. Their sacrifice helped protect the freedoms we enjoy every day, and Memorial Day gives us an opportunity to pause with gratitude and reflection.
There are many meaningful ways to honor the day. Attend a local Memorial Day ceremony, visit a veterans memorial or cemetery, display an American flag, or observe the National Moment of Remembrance at 3:00 PM. You can also take time to share stories of loved ones who served, teach children the meaning behind the holiday, or simply thank military families for their sacrifice. As we enjoy cookouts, family gatherings, and time outdoors, let us also remember the heroes who made those moments possible. 🇺🇸
🎟️ Friday, May 22, 2026
Iration Summer Tour Red Hat Amphitheater, Raleigh Reggae/rock band Iration live in concert.
ZZ Top & Dwight Yoakam – The Dos Amigos Tour Koka Booth Amphitheatre, Cary A double bill featuring rock legends ZZ Top and country star Dwight Yoakam.
Free Movie Night: Wicked (For Good) Downtown Cary Park, Cary Bring a blanket and enjoy a free outdoor screening.
🎟️ Saturday, May 23, 2026
Raleigh Spring Train Show Graham Building, N.C. State Fairgrounds, Raleigh Two-day model railroad event for train enthusiasts.
Taste of Soul Durham Durham (location varies – check website) Food trucks, kids’ activities, live entertainment, and local vendors.
NC Darkness RISING Live Moore Square, Downtown Raleigh Arts and mental health block party, 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM.
Beer Garden Concert Series The Glass Jug Beer Lab, Research Triangle Park (RTP) Live music, 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM.
Memorial Day Party The Williams House Craft Taproom, Cary Music and drinks, 6:00 PM – 11:00 PM.
NC Symphony Opening Night Koka Booth Amphitheatre, Cary Featuring Tchaikovsky Piano Concerto No. 1.Sunday, May 17, 2026
🎟️ Sunday, May 24, 2026
NC Sugar Rush City Plaza, Downtown Raleigh 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM Celebrate all things sweet with food trucks, fun activities, and local vendors.
Raleigh Spring Train Show Graham Building, N.C. State Fairgrounds, Raleigh Final day of the popular model railroad exhibition.
To find local Memorial Day events, click the calendar link below. ⬅️
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Spring into a brand new language with Babbel
It’s almost time for sun, sand, and fearless conversations in a new language. Dive into bite-sized lessons, podcasts, and speaking practice from Babbel – and If you start now, you could be ready for your summer vacay.
For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
