Crape Myrtle Festival

10/10/2026

Yesterday, our community has experienced a huge loss, as Michelle Bender has passed away. Michelle meant so much to so many people. For CMF, she was an ally, a supporter, an Honorary Queen, and mostly, she was family.

Over many years, Michelle support was consistent and steadfast. No matter what we needed, she would always be there. She hosted our drag brunch at her amazing restaurant, Five Star for many of the years that we held it.

We made so many memories throwing events together, collaborating on projects, and enjoying the ups and downs of life over some of her amazing cooking.

Our hearts go out to her family, and everyone affected by Michelle’s passing. We will continue to honor her legacy at CMF and we will never forget the mark she made.

We love you Michelle. Fly high!

From the Board and Court of the Crape Myrtle Festival, and on behalf of our drag brunches Justin Natvig and Carlos O’Neal.

09/08/2026

Who’s ready for another amazing Sunday! We’re back for our monthly Raleigh Drag Brunch Sunday September 20th at Level7 Rooftop Bar with an Allstar cast including Aida Stratton, Giselle Cassidy Carter, Aris Valentine, Marceline Mashic, and Emily Michaels! This will be an event to remember so get your tickets NOW before it’s too Late!

https://www.simpletix.com/e/crape-myrtle-festival-september-2026-drag-tickets-289268

08/24/2026

Who’s ready for an active week? Make sure to join us at the NC Courage match for a fun night of sports and community!

Get your 2026 Angel City at NC Courage - Crape Myrtle Festival tickets

08/18/2026

We’ve got Courage Yes we do. We’ve got Courage how bout you? CMF is teaming up with nccourageuslw for their August 26th match! $5 from every ticket purchased through our link will go back into the community! Get your tickets from the link below!

Get your 2026 Angel City at NC Courage - Crape Myrtle Festival tickets

08/18/2026

Durham! We're back at The Velvet Hippo Labor day Sunday to Kick off Durham Pride month! Don't miss this amazing lineup of , The Iconic Marceline , and . Tickets are Live Now!

08/12/2026

Congratulations to our newly crowned Miss Gay North Carolina America, our state symbol of Excellence Aida Stratton! On behalf of your Crape Myrtle family we wish you the best of luck on your yellow brick road to nationals and may your reign take us all somewhere over the rainbow!

08/02/2026

There's a new Queen in the castle and even more royalty taking the Brunch Stage this month!

Get your tickets before they're all gone! You don't want to miss this Family affair hosted by with performances by and our birthday duo Vivian Vaughn and Michelle Warren with our extra special guest .

See you there! Tickets available at : https://crapemyrtlefest.simpletix.com
DO NOT FALL FOR SCAM TICKETS, can only be sold by CMF!

Level 7 Rooftop Bar! Check it out here: https://level7roofbar.com/ A Special Thank You to Our August Sponsors!Doors 11 am and Showtime NoonTickets are $39 (including fees) and include a delicious brunch, a donation to Crape Myrtle Festival, and performance

07/29/2026

Get your tickets and let’s drag! Who doesn’t love a fabulous three course dinner and some fabulous entertainment!

DO NOT FALL FOR TICKET RESALES THOSE COMMENTS ARE SCAMS.

Tomorrow's the night, Raleigh! ✨ Kirby Kolby is bringing the glamour to Drag Me to Dinner: Glitter in the Sky, and you do not want to miss this unforgettable evening. 💃⁠
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For just $55, your ticket includes:⁠
🍸 A welcome cocktail
🍽️ A delicious three-course prix fixe dinner
🎟️ Entry into our raffle for a chance to win a one-night stay at Tempo Raleigh
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Even better? A portion of the evening's proceeds will benefit Crape Myrtle Festival, so you can celebrate while supporting an incredible local organization. 💖⁠
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Grab your crew, secure your tickets before it's too late, and don't forget to bring your money, honey—your cash tips help show these fabulous performers some love! ✨

07/27/2026

Dearest Gentle Reader,

As the final candle dimmed and the last dance came to an end, this author found herself reflecting on the most enchanting affair of the season.

A Royal Affair: The Queen's Reveal Gala was nothing short of spectacular.

To every guest who joined us beneath masks and candlelight—thank you. Your laughter, generosity, and support made the evening truly magical.

To our incredible sponsors, thank you for believing in the Crape Myrtle Festival and our mission of Friends Helping Friends. Your generosity allows us to continue giving back to our community, and we are forever grateful.

Bravo to our phenomenal entertainers—Keith Zammit, Brandi Roberts, Brenda the Drag Queen, and our fabulous special guest, Purina Chow—for an unforgettable evening filled with laughter and joy.

Thank you as well to Spark Photo Booth for capturing memories we'll treasure for years to come, and to everyone who participated in our Grand Gala Silent Auction. Your generosity helps make our mission possible.

And now... society turns the page.

Congratulations to Trevor, our new Queen of Court 47, and Virginia, our new Co-Queen of Court 47. We wish you a year filled with friendship, service, laughter, and unforgettable memories.

As Court 46 takes its final bow, we leave with hearts overflowing with gratitude. Thank you for allowing us the honor of serving this extraordinary organization and community.

For those who were unable to attend...

You missed the event everyone will be talking about until next season.

And so concludes the Society Papers of Court 46. The crown has changed hands, a new season begins, and this author eagerly awaits the next chapter.

Until we meet again...

Gay For Good , , , Ema Del Rey .dive.bar , , , , , , , , , , , ,

07/26/2026

And the winner is…. Amanduh Barron your new Mx Crape Myrtle Festival 2026!