2010072901

Raleigh Wide Open 5 Draws Thousands Despite Rain

By The Raleigh Telegram

Wednesday, August 4, 2010

RALEIGH - Despite a little bit of rain over the weekend, the fifth annual Raleigh Wide Open event in downtown Raleigh drew thousands of people who came to for the parade, music, food, exhibits, rides, and more in one of the largest festival events in the city every year.

The event started out with the traditional parade that included dignitaries from around the Triangle including news anchors from WRAL-TV and ABC-11, Wake County Sheriff Donnie Harrison, Raleigh Mayor Charles Meeker, the giant hot dog guy from Snoopy’s Hot Dogs (possibly the most famous out of the group), and Miss Capital City.

Sports mascots included Stormy from the Carolina Hurricanes hockey team and the Carolina RailHawks hawk who evidently forgot to bring his float. The Carolina Rollergirls roller derby team was also well represented in the procession.

Always a big hit in the parade every year is the Helping Hand Mission Marching Band, which features majorettes dancing to their great music.

Of course, there were plenty of antique cars in the procession including some old Chevrolets and Fords, much to the crowds’ liking.

One new event this year that proved to be very popular were the “X-Games” style exhibitions in the festival area.

Daredevils on skateboards, bicycles, and even motorcycles wowed the crowds as they flew in the air and performed amazing acrobatic feats.

In addition to food and exhibits, there was also plenty of music with the Cherry Bounce stage brought back again this year with local musicians.

As if to cap off the evening with a tour de force, the famous Barenaked Ladies Band performed their unique blend of music and fun in front of a sold out crowd at the brand new Raleigh outdoor amphitheater, which is just behind the Raleigh Convention Center.

And to reward those who stuck around for the final event, fireworks were shot off over Fayetteville Street, marking the end to another successful Raleigh Wide Open event.

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