The top 7 things to do in Raleigh this weekend, Oct. 9-11

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Our curated list of the best things to do the weekend of October 9th - October 11th. You've worked hard this week-go have a little fun.

Learn How to Pom Pom at Ramble Supply

These days pom poms aren't just for cheerleaders. So Ramble Supply is teaming up with Kye & Hardy to teach you how to DIY an adorable pom pom adorned wall hanging to take your pad up a notch. "Ramble Supply sells plenty of pretty home accessories in the shop, but there's nothing quite like crafting something yourself to make your space a little nicer. They're teaming up with Kelly from Kye & Hardy, the makers of badass modern quilts, to teach you how to pom with the help of a little vino. All supplies will be provided and you'll walk away with a new cozy, chic wall hanging or mobile (and a wine buzz)! RSVP to ramblesupplyco@gmail.com. (Photo via @RambleSupplyCo)

Swanky Cocktails and Optical Illusions at the Museum

To get ready for the M.C. Escher exhibit coming to the NCMA, a mixologist and ophthalmologist will make your head spin (and your vision blur) with designer cocktails and optical illusions. The NCMA is pretty pumped about the upcoming M.C. Escher exhibit, Mixed Media: Optics, evidenced by the murals popping up around town and the multiple teaser leading up to the launch of the exhibit. All this pomp and circumstance is for a good reason, the man was a master of graphic design and is best known for his "impossible" constructions. A mixologist and an ophthalmologist will engage you in an evening full of "edu-tainment" on optical illusions, M. C. Escher, blurred vision, designer cocktails and while enjoy heavy hors d'oeuvres and games. Tickets start at $30. (Photo via @raleighwhatsup)

Get Out of Your Mental Comfort Zone at CAM

Spark new thinking and engage your artsy side as you explore contemporary and design pieces in one of our fave Raleigh museums. "Contemporary" is a pretty broad term, so you're probably wonder what to expect when you walk through CAM's doors.

At CAM, "contemporary" is defined as work that is new and emerging. The museum is curated, so you will be amazed every time you come back! The only constant at CAM, in fact, is that its always changing. CAM established its foundations in Raleigh nearly three decades ago, and-just like the first day it opened-their exhibitions and programs explore what is now and what will come.

General admission is $5, but you can get in fo' FREE on First Fridays. Area college students and NC State College of Design staffers don't have to pay admission. Oh, and skaters get in free with a skateboard. Pretty cool, huh? (Photo via @raleighwhatsup)

Beers & Gears at Marbles Museum

Marbles Museum is turning into an adult playground for Beers and Gears, a night of brews, bikes and blast-from-the-past games. Marbles excels at kid friendly fun, and for one night only they're opening that up to kids 21+ for Beers and Gears. Run rampant in the museum with laser tag, antler ring toss, mini bike jousting (yes that's a thing!), human foosball, giant beer pong, a photo booth, plus frolic on all of Marbles' already cool play equipment like the pirate ship, hockey rink, helicopter and more. New Belgium beer and wine will be available at the cash bar! (Photo via @brianbishct)

Explore the Globe at the International Festival

The International Festival brings over 60 nations from around the world to the Convention Center for a weekend of entertainment, exploration, inspiration and, of course, some eating and drinking. Travel the globe in a single weekend! Over 60 local ethnic communities ranging from Afghan to Zairian participate in the International Festival each year to showcase their culture, including their cuisine, dance and music. The diversity is mind-blowing, and you're guaranteed to learn something new. Immerse yourself in the International Bazaar, exhibits, try something new at one of the 28 worldly cafs, visit the kids corner or grab a beer at the World Beer Garden-there's fun for everyone!

Tickets can be purchased for the full weekend for $20, family packs or single day passes (starting at $7.50). (Photo via @pattysnapple)

Savor Raleighite Food Culture at Second Saturday

Come celebrate Second Saturday! Join in on food, fun and philanthropy with local Raleighites. Did we mention there's a Bloody Mary bar? "Second Saturday is a way to celebrate the local food movement and support the Raleigh Food Corridor with monthly exhibitions, showcases, events and demos inspired by a monthly theme. Community members can explore new ways to engage with and support local food, improve our food system, fight hunger and build a more vibrant community.

Check their Facebook page to get the low down on the theme and all of the happenings related to it.

Second Saturday includes a pop-up farmers' market located at Stanbury. Plus, tons of local vendors, businesses and farmers will be present including: Yellow Dog Bakery, Boulted Bread, Raleigh City Farm, Escazu, Locals Seafood and more! You can also enjoy tasty food and drinks from businesses and restaurants like Stanbury and Wine Authorities. Second Saturday is an all day event, but since some pop-ups and installations may only be open for a couple of hours in the morning or afternoon always check the schedule before you go!(Photo via @double_g)

Feast Under the Stars at the Harvest Dinner

Prepare for a magical evening under the stars with a plentiful family-style feast, paired with local beer and wine to support the local and sustainable food movement. Raleigh City Farm hosts the Harvest Dinner, a feast featuring the culinary art of chef Caroline Morrison from Fiction Kitchen. She'll use produce from Raleigh City Farm, Endless Sun Produce, Old Milburnie Farm and others to create a bountiful meal that will pair perfectly with wine specially selected from small, family-owned wineries by Wine Authorities and seasonal beer from Durham based Fullsteam Brewery.

If you're feeling spendy, a VIP ticket can be purchased for a pretty penny for access to a pre-dinner reception of craft cocktails from Fair Game Beverage and Crude Bitters. If the price tag seems steep, just remember, all the proceeds are supporting the mission to grow new urban farms and strengthening sustainable, healthy food systems. (Photo via @mdecoudreaux)

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