Friday, September 19 | 6–9 PM | The Durham Coffee Bar

If you lived through the 90’s, you know the vibe.


It’s 4PM, your Payless sneakers are off, the house is quiet, and the TV is on. Legends of the Hidden Temple is playing, TRL is up next, and there’s a note on the counter that says “Dinner’s in the fridge.” No phones, no Wi-Fi. Just trapper keepers, Lisa Frank stickers, and a cassette deck waiting for the perfect song. It’s latchkey kid energy at its finest, complete with snacks, freedom, and your favorite shows.

TGIF at The Durham is a new monthly series for 90s kids who remember what Friday nights were really about. Think throwback snacks, all the hits you had on mixtapes, and the kind of carefree vibe that only comes from knowing you don’t have to do homework later.

We’re kicking it off September 19th from 6-9 PM in the Coffee Bar with Back to Cool, a grown-up take on going back to school that celebrates the best parts of the 90s: the music, the snacks, and that Friday night feeling! This is the night you always wanted as a kid, with your friends, your favorite songs, and zero parental supervision.

What we are serving:

  • Hot Pockets with beef and cheddar
  • Bagel Bites made with Isaac’s Bagels
  • Grown-up Lunchables with local charcuterie and Boxcarr Cheese
  • DurhmRoos, our house-made version of Dunkaroos
  • Ants on a Log
  • CapriSun-style cocktails served in pouches, just like you remember
  • Limited regular menu, but you won’t miss it

90s Fits Encouraged (and Rewarded):

Come as you are, as you were, as you always wanted to be. IYKYK Overalls, windbreakers, butterfly clips, and flannel around the waist are all fair game. Whether you were more grunge, glam, or straight-up Lisa Frank core, we want to see it.

We’re hosting a Back to School Best Dressed Contest, and the winner will score a free one-night stay at The Durham Hotel. Bring your A-game and dress like you’re all that and a bag of chips because you are.

No cover. Just vibes.

Back Pack Buddies Drive: Give Back While You Throw It Back

During Back to Cool, we’ll be collecting food donations to support the BackPack Buddies program from the Junior League of Raleigh, which provides weekend meals for local kids facing food insecurity.

If you’re joining us, bring one or two kid-friendly items to donate that night and help fill a backpack with food for a child in need.

Most Needed Items:

  • Individual 100% juice boxes
  • Shelf-stable milk boxes
  • Cereal bars, granola bars, raisins, PB crackers
  • Oatmeal packets or grits
  • Canned proteins (tuna, chicken, pasta meals, soups)
  • Canned fruits and veggies
  • Easy Mac or ramen noodle cups

Please avoid: candy, chips, fruit drinks like Hi-C, expired food, or opened multi-packs.
We’re also accepting extra plastic grocery bags for packing.

Let’s turn our 90s nostalgia into real support for today’s students! Every item makes a difference.