To view our videos, you need to
enable JavaScript. Learn how.
install Adobe Flash 9 or above. Install now.

Then come back here and refresh the page.

RALEIGH — Masses of people crowded into downtown Raleigh on Saturday to mingle, to listen to music, and to eat.

People came for a variety of reasons, but everyone shared the same enjoyment of culture, food, and music that created Raleigh Wide Open 5. A parade kicked off the day's activities at 11 a.m. Since then, the crowds have been estimated to be in the range tens of thousands range.

“It started out as a party to open up the street and look at it, tens and tens of thousands of people walking around all day long and having a good time. I think mainly just people watching,” said Doug Grissom, of Raleigh Wide Open 5.

Those who braved the rain and clouds for this year's event, say it was well worth the gamble.

“The good thing about the area too is I figured if it rains we could always do one of the museums,” said George nelson, attendee.

Raleigh Wide Open was first created as en event to celebrate openings and expansions in downtown Raleigh.