Out and About has had a great year! To help us remember all the crazy stuff we did, we compiled our five favorite things of 2012.

Kathy Hanrahan, Out and About managing editor - The highlight for me was going behind the scenes with Cirque du Soleil's "Michael Jackson Immortal" show. Cirque let us backstage to check out the costumes and meet with the performers. We even got to go under the stage, but the best and most fun part was firing some pyrotechnics out of my hand. 

Caitlin Zanga, Out and About producer - I’m going to say that my favorite local thing was the International Festival in September. I had never been before, but it was so great to see this huge event showcasing talented people and cultures from all over the world right in my hometown. It really opens your eyes and shows you how diverse Raleigh is becoming. I’m looking forward to going again next year, even if it’s not for work!

Lisa Jeffries, WRAL.com marketing manager - I’d say the WRAL Out & About Girls Night Out that we did at the Rodeo was tops! Getting to meet the cowboys and see the bulls up close – very cool VIP experience – and loved meeting the WRAL.com readers who joined us at PNC Arena.

Tara Whitfield, WRAL.com marketing assistant -  The 24-inch pizza challenge at Ruckus. It was our first tweet up and such a fun time that it inspired us to do more events like it. I look forward to doing more tweet ups in the future!

Jodi Glusco, WRAL.com director of content - Mine is the introduction to Relish. I have been back twice! The menu offers so much I want to try in terms of creative, locally sourced, plentiful and delicious. I have added Relish as a new favorite meeting place when in North Raleigh.