ACC Women's Rowing Championships

Experience the thrill of high-stakes collegiate competition at the ACC Women's Rowing Championships, held at the picturesque Lake Wheeler Park in Raleigh, North Carolina. On May 15 and 16, 2026, nine elite Atlantic Coast Conference teams will gather to showcase their strength, precision, and endurance on the water. This prestigious event represents the pinnacle of collegiate rowing, offering fans a unique opportunity to witness top-tier athletes from renowned institutions like UNC-Chapel Hill and Duke University as they compete for the championship title. Admission to this exciting event is free for all spectators, making it a perfect outing for families, sports enthusiasts, and community members alike. Daily racing action kicks off at 8 a.m., culminating in a celebratory awards ceremony on Saturday morning at 10:30 a.m. Whether you are a dedicated rowing fan or simply looking for an inspiring way to spend your weekend in the outdoors, this tournament promises an unforgettable experience. Join us at the water to support these incredible athletes as they push their limits and vie for victory. For more details, visit our website today.

Experience the vibrant spirit of the Triangle with the Centennial SoundBites concert series, presented by the Oak City Music Collective and NC State Centennial Campus. This exciting event takes place on most Wednesdays from June 3 through August 5, 2026, offering a perfect midday escape for music lovers, local professionals, and students alike. Hosted at 321 Coffee on Main Campus Drive, these outdoor performances provide an energetic atmosphere to enjoy high-quality live music in a beautiful campus setting. In addition to the fantastic musical lineup, attendees can grab delicious bites from a variety of onsite food trucks. This event is entirely free to attend, and complimentary parking is conveniently available at the Oval West Parking Deck, provided you validate your license plate upon arrival. Whether you are looking to network with colleagues or simply want to relax with great tunes during your lunch hour, this series is the place to be. Mark your calendars and join us for this melodic celebration. For more details on the upcoming performers, visit the official website today.

Artist Notes is an intimate performance series that offers a deep look into the creative process of acclaimed musicians. Hosted on Friday evenings, this event invites audience members to enjoy live music while learning about the stories and inspirations behind the songs directly from the artists themselves. This session features Dave Wilson and John Teer of Chatham County Line. Known for their unique blend of bluegrass, folk, country, and rock, the duo will discuss the pivotal moments of their careers and the craft of songwriting. Attendees gain unique insights that go beyond a standard concert experience, providing a rare opportunity to connect with the performers in a meaningful setting. This event is perfect for music lovers who appreciate storytelling and acoustic performances. The atmosphere is relaxed and community-focused, making it an excellent choice for a Friday outing. Admission is free and local food trucks will be on site. Attendees are welcome to bring camp chairs, coolers with beer or wine, and leashed dogs. Join us for this engaging look into the art of music.

The Fine Arts League of Cary proudly presents the 16th Annual Wake County Teen Art Exhibition, a vibrant celebration of creativity showcasing over 100 works by talented student artists from across Wake County. On view May 6–27, 2026, at the Frankie G. Weems Gallery on the campus of Meredith College, this professionally curated exhibition highlights the exceptional achievements of young artists selected by their teachers. Join the community for a special public reception and awards ceremony on May 10, 2026, from 2:00–4:00 p.m., where $20,000 in prizes will be awarded to students and their schools. Sponsored by Cary Family Dental and supported by local arts organizations and Meredith College, the exhibition not only honors artistic excellence but also reinvests in school art programs, helping foster the next generation of creative thinkers. Now in its 16th year, this inspiring event underscores the importance of arts education while offering students a meaningful opportunity to exhibit their work in a gallery setting. All are welcome to attend and experience the creativity, imagination, and talent of Wake County’s young artists.

Experience the magic of literature and the beauty of the outdoors this May with the Wake County Parks StoryWalks initiative. This unique program combines physical activity with early literacy, allowing families to enjoy a children book page by page as they navigate scenic nature trails. It is an excellent way to encourage a love for reading while exploring the diverse landscapes of our local park system. Throughout the month, various parks will feature rotating story selections, offering fresh adventures for recurring visitors. Whether you are strolling through the walkways of Oak View or wandering the natural paths of Harris Lake, these curated experiences provide a refreshing escape for readers of all ages. We invite you and your family to visit these sites throughout May to engage with these wonderful tales in an immersive environment. Please check the official park schedules to plan your visit and ensure you have plenty of time to enjoy the trails until sunset. Grab your walking shoes and prepare for a delightful journey where every step leads to a new page of discovery. We look forward to seeing you out on the trail soon.

Experience the botanical wonder of Juniper Level Botanic Garden and Plant Delights Nursery during their exclusive seasonal open house events. Spanning twenty eight acres in Raleigh, North Carolina, this world renowned destination showcases over thirty thousand unique plant varieties, including rare perennials, exotic specimens, and unusual trees collected from global expeditions. Whether you are a dedicated horticulturalist or a passionate home gardener, you will find endless inspiration wandering through these meticulously maintained display gardens and research spaces. These open weekend events provide a rare opportunity for the public to explore the grounds without prior reservations. Discover new favorites for your own landscape while shopping for unique additions in the onsite sales greenhouses. The nursery is committed to educational excellence and botanical diversity, making this an essential destination for nature enthusiasts of all backgrounds. Join us for a weekend of discovery and community in a truly remarkable setting. Admission and parking are entirely free, and the event proceeds rain or shine. Visit our website today to plan your trip and browse our extensive online catalogue for your next planting project.

The Capital City 170 is a professional NASCAR regional racing event featuring rising stars in the sport. This competition offers fans a chance to experience high-speed short track racing at America's Favorite Bullring. The event takes place south of downtown Raleigh off US401 South and officially begins with the green flag at 8:30pm. This specific night is designated as Military Night to honor the service of United States veterans and active personnel. Attendees can expect a fast-paced environment with talented drivers battling for position throughout the evening. The venue provides clear sightlines and an immersive atmosphere that brings fans close to the action. It is an ideal setting to witness the next generation of professional stock car racing talent. Racing enthusiasts of all ages are invited to participate in this tribute to our military heroes. The venue is easily accessible for local residents and visitors looking for an energetic sports experience. Plan to arrive early to secure your seating and enjoy the pre-race atmosphere. Purchase your tickets in advance to join us for an evening of competitive regional motorsports in the heart of North Carolina.

The World Vision Global 6K Fun Run is a charitable event dedicated to raising funds for clean water and hygiene projects for children worldwide. Participants join thousands of others globally to help provide life-changing resources to communities in need through this international movement. This event takes place on the North Raleigh Christian Academy campus. Participants will start at the athletic fields and complete a 3.2-mile course along the Neuse River Greenway. The route follows an out-and-back path suitable for runners, walkers, and those using mobility aids. Every registration connects you directly to a specific child, as your race bib features the photo of a child who will receive clean water thanks to your support. This run is open to all ages and fitness levels, offering a welcoming atmosphere for families, casual walkers, and serious runners alike. Whether you are seeking a morning workout or a way to make a tangible global impact, this event provides a meaningful experience. Join our community on the greenway to help turn miles into clean water. Register today to secure your place in the race.

Get ready for an exciting day of rolling and community fun as Skate Raleigh brings a unique Pop Up Skate Park to Gipson Play Park on May 16, 2026. This dynamic event transforms the park into a skater paradise featuring professional grade ramps, rails, and boxes designed to accommodate all skill levels. Whether you are a seasoned skater looking to refine your technical tricks or a complete beginner eager to try the sport for the first time, this event provides the perfect environment for growth and excitement. Our team of skilled instructors and passionate volunteers will be onsite throughout the day to provide helpful tips, encouragement, and safety support to all participants. This event is entirely free and open to everyone in the community, including spectators who want to enjoy the atmosphere. We invite you to grab your gear and join us from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. for a day filled with good vibes and active fun. Come roll with us and be part of this vibrant celebration of local skating culture.