Giant trolls coming soon
Hi {{ first name | Raleigh Lover}}!
What a pinch me week in Raleigh!
On Wednesday, Craig and I had the absolute honor of attending a reception at the NC Governor’s Mansion for the Australian Ambassador to the United States — none other than Kevin Rudd, who also happens to be the former Prime Minister of Australia (2007–2010).
Even better, we had the privilege of sitting down with him for a 40-minute podcast interview. Kevin was everything you’d hope for — easygoing, full of stories, a great laugh, and so intelligent without being intimidating. We covered it all: Australian businesses in North Carolina, future investment in the state, cultural quirks between Aussies and Americans, sports, travel, his recent talk at Duke on the Indo-Pacific region (did you know he speaks Mandarin?), and even a personal connection — our eldest daughter was born in Nambour, Queensland, his (small) hometown!
To top it off, at the Governor’s reception we hosted a lighthearted “slang-off” between Governor Josh Stein and Ambassador Rudd — NC slang vs. Aussie slang. Let’s just say the results were hilarious. I felt for Governor Stein as Aussie lingo is very difficult to decipher. Stay tuned for both the podcast episode and video coming soon.
And because Raleigh never slows down, we rolled straight into Hopscotch Music Festival last night. It was our first time experiencing it beyond the free day parties, and wow, downtown came alive with music from every corner. We’re heading back for more this weekend (including a roller-skate disco pop-up outside Le Dive!) so give us your tips on who we can’t miss.
It’s weeks like this that remind us just how special Raleigh is, a place where local fun, global connections, and unforgettable experiences collide. It was also a reminder of how much I love to be an ambassador for both my special homes, Australia and Raleigh! What a gift life has given me!
Have a great weekend!
Caroline
💖 FAVORITE FINDS
El Rodeo: An affordable and delicious Mexican restaurant in Downtown Raleigh. Last night they had $5.25 margaritas and delicious nachos - easy to share between two!
Nash Hall: We discovered a new venue last night. Nash Hall is in the Church on Morgan St, and a fantastic place for a musical performance! I hope to see more there.
Delicious buffalo chicken wings at the Bend Bar!
I like my hair cut from Twisted Scissors in Cary!
With Kevin Rudd
Hopscotch
State of Beer
El Rodeo
⭐DID YOU HEAR?
Haven Herb Garden Bar is open on Glenwood South serving coffee drinks, THC + CBD infused mocktails, and cannabis products sourced from Haven Farm.
Local favorite Jubala is opening a new spot in Pendo Tower this fall, and by evening it will transform into Bar Marigold, serving up craft cocktails!
🖋 ON THE BLOG
📆THIS WEEKEND
You may like…
Fri & Sat: Hopscotch Music Festival has ticketed live music events at venues all over town, as well as free day parties in many of downtown's cafes, restaurants and bars. It’s quite the unique vibe.
Fri: First Friday is happening in Downtown Raleigh tonight - it’s going to be really buzzing with all the Hopscotch festival activities
Fri Skate Raleigh Hopscotch x First Friday Pop-Up on Martin Street in front of Kings & Neptunes! Demonstrations, open skating, a BMX jam, and a Roller Disco!
Fri: If you want a more chilled live music experience without the insane crowds, head to Bond Park in Cary for their monthly bands, bites, and brews by the lake!
Sun: Raleigh Brewing Oktoberfest German-style blocal party with the Little German Band and dancers, as well as Bavarian food and of course beer!
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