If you're coming to Raleigh, I would recommend visiting Raleigh Brewing Company:
http://raleighbrewingcompany.com/
They have a nice little taproom and... they connect to a homebrew supply company
I second this. I would definitely head to
Raleigh Brewing Company Friday night. Start with a Blatherskite then move onto whatever they are tapping at 6 pm. I haven't heard of any tapping at 6 on Friday so ask first. If you decide to go on Saturday, they are tapping an Imperial Lime Basil Wit, which is a
homebrew. That is pretty exciting as I've personally never seen a brewery release anything that is a homebrew Check their Facebook page or their website for details. Food wise, they have a food truck and Fridays seems to be a pork food truck.
If you're not lured in by the overall awesomeness of RBC Friday, then head over to
Big Boss. It's about 10-15 minutes away and also home to some great beer.
If you're not completely lit by then, head over to the Flying Saucer where you can choose from a ton of
beers and their food is good. At least what I've had there.
There is also Bottle Revolution that you may find pretty awesome. It is a craft beer store.
Or you can do this over a couple of days, if you must.
Raleigh is in no short supply of great beer and good people.