Cary and Raleigh both have pavilions that put on great summer events.  Both have films and concerts and each year and they seem to battle for who will have the better schedule.  If Raleigh has any luck, a downtown version will be here in 2009, but until then, we’ll have to edge ourselves a bit outside the beltline to catch some sunshine with our movies and concerts (unless you count the dismal attempt by Moore Square/Bud Light).

Here are links for both venues’ concerts and movies for the upcoming hot months and some not-to-be-missed highlights.  The movies at Koka start tomorrow and NCMA on Friday.

Comparing the two lists it seems that one venue wins in the film category and the other wins over in the music category.  The films at Koka Booth, which start tomorrow night with The Bourne Ultimatum, seem to have a bit more of a family friendly atmosphere while the Art Museum go from kid friendly (Horton) to deeply disturbing (Lives of Others and Control).

The opposite effect occurs on the music stage at the two venues.  Koka Booth is bringing in edgier artists, while the Art Museum is staying very roots based with Emmylou Harris, John Hiatt, Tift Merritt and more.

One thing the Museum does have that Koka has yet to install is the movie/music combo, something that has once again been excellently coordinated (Carolina Chocolate Drops and The Great Debaters anyone?).  Nevertheless, both venues will provide excellent summer entertainment in the sun.

Source: newraleigh.com