Artful Story Time

FREE Family Fest in Raleigh — Saturday, September 12! Looking for a full day of family fun, creativity, connection, and outdoor adventure? Join us for the 3rd Annual Family Fest at Lakeside Retreats! Optional overnight Camping 📅 Saturday, September 12, 2026 ⏰ 8:00 AM–9:00 PM 📍 4521 Mial Plantation Road, Raleigh, NC 27610 🎟️ FREE admission Enjoy a day filled with: 🔥 Fire show 🎨 Art activities 🥋 Martial arts class 🫧 Bubbles 🧘 Yoga and sound bath 🌲 Forest bathing 🏕️ S’mores and optional overnight camping 🍴 Food trucks and vendors 💛 Sensory yurt 🎤 Guest speakers 🏆 Tug of war …and so much more!

Join us at Crowder County Park for an educational and engaging experience during our upcoming Turtle Talk session. Located on 33 acres of beautiful hardwood forests and scenic trails, our park provides the perfect backdrop for discovering local wildlife. During this interactive program, participants will explore the fascinating world of our resident turtles, learning about the five unique species that call our park home. We will cover essential topics including identification techniques, natural behaviors, and the interesting science behind scutes. This event is perfect for nature enthusiasts ages five and up, making it an excellent opportunity for families to connect with the environment. Our park staff is dedicated to providing an informative session that inspires curiosity about the local ecosystem. Please note that registration is required for all attendees, as space is limited to ensure a quality experience for everyone. We encourage you to visit our official website today to secure your spot and view our full calendar of upcoming outdoor programming. We look forward to seeing you at the Heron Shelter for this exciting wildlife discovery event.

Get ready for a sweet transformation as Morrisville officially becomes S Morrisville on Monday, August 10, 2026. Join us for a delightful evening dedicated to celebrating the iconic campfire snack that everyone loves. This community event promises a fun atmosphere where you can indulge in delicious s mores and a variety of other tasty treats with your friends and neighbors. It is the perfect opportunity to enjoy a summer evening outdoors while participating in a unique local tradition. The festivities will take place at the Morrisville Community Park located at 1520 Morrisville Parkway from 5 to 7 p.m. To ensure a smooth arrival, please plan to park at the nearby Morrisville Elementary School at 1519 Morrisville Parkway. Please remember to turn right from Davis Drive to enter the parking area and exit right towards Chapel Hill Road when departing the event. We invite you to bring your family and appetite for an unforgettable experience in the heart of our community. Mark your calendars now for this festive gathering and join us for an evening of sugary fun and local excitement.

Experience a delightful summer evening at Bottle Theory in Apex for the Blush and Bluegrass event. This inviting community gathering features the spirited sounds of Morgan Creek Bluegrass performing live on the patio. It is the perfect opportunity to unwind with friends and family while enjoying the vibrant outdoor atmosphere that makes North Carolina summers so special. In addition to the wonderful music, guests can indulge in a curated rose wine tasting experience or grab a delicious meal from the MoMoMandu food truck on site. This event is designed to be family friendly, so feel free to bring your own lawn chair, settle into a comfortable spot, and soak in the relaxing environment. Whether you are a fan of bluegrass or simply looking for a fun night out, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Make sure to mark your calendar for July 10, 2026, from 6 to 8 p.m. This event is completely free to attend. We look forward to welcoming you to Bottle Theory for an unforgettable evening of music and refreshments.

If you're looking for a cultural outing this summer, the 31st Annual Juried Exhibition hosted by the Fine Arts League of Cary is one of the most anticipated art events in the Triangle. Held at the historic Page-Walker Arts & History Center in Cary, this highly competitive exhibition showcases some of the best artistic talent from across North Carolina and beyond - and it's completely free to attend. A wide range of two-dimensional art, from abstract to realism Paintings, drawings, and mixed media pieces Artwork created by both emerging and established regional artists All pieces are available for purchase, making this a great opportunity to introduce kids to art collecting or find a unique piece for your home. Key Dates & Details Submission Period (for artists): April 15 – June 15, 2026 Exhibition Dates: June 30 – September 14, 2026 Location: Page-Walker Arts & History Center, Cary Admission: Free Gallery Hours: Monday–Thursday: Noon – 9:00 PM Friday: Noon – 5:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM Sunday: Closed The exhibition continues to grow each year. In 2025 alone: Over 650 entries were submitted More than 230 artists participated Only around 70 works were selected

In the Moment is a monthly program designed for individuals living with memory changes and their care partners. This series facilitates meaningful connections and lifelong learning through interactive experiences led by cultural institutions from across North Carolina. This session focuses on the sounds of North Carolina. Participants will explore the state's cultural heritage by examining artwork from artists who lived or worked in the region. The program highlights the music and activities that have defined North Carolina's history. Attendees will engage in guided conversations and creative expressions inspired by these artistic pieces, creating an accessible environment that celebrates regional identity through visual and auditory discovery. This program is specifically tailored for those managing memory changes, ensuring a supportive and comfortable setting for everyone involved. We encourage you to join us for an afternoon of shared inspiration and community connection. This event provides a unique opportunity to explore culture in an inclusive atmosphere. Please register in advance to reserve your space for this enriching monthly experience. We look forward to welcoming you and your care partner to our next session.

Experience the beauty and inspiration of the Nasher Museum of Art from the comfort of your own home with our monthly Reflections Virtual Tour. Designed specifically for individuals living with dementia and their care partners, this accessible program offers an inviting space to explore and discuss captivating artworks via Zoom. Each session provides a thoughtfully curated experience that emphasizes inclusivity and engagement in a relaxed environment. Our professional team facilitates these interactive discussions to ensure every participant feels welcome and valued. By joining this virtual gathering, you can connect with others, explore new themes, and enjoy the transformative power of art without the need for travel. It is a wonderful opportunity to stimulate memory and foster meaningful social connections in a supportive setting. Registration is required to receive the access link for this free monthly event. To secure your spot, please contact our team via email at reflections at duke dot edu. We invite you to join our vibrant community for this enriching cultural experience and discover how art can brighten your day.

In the Moment is a monthly program designed for individuals living with memory changes and their care partners. This series facilitates meaningful connections and lifelong learning through interactive experiences led by cultural institutions from across North Carolina. This session focuses on the sounds of North Carolina. Participants will explore the state's cultural heritage by examining artwork from artists who lived or worked in the region. The program highlights the music and activities that have defined North Carolina's history. Attendees will engage in guided conversations and creative expressions inspired by these artistic pieces, creating an accessible environment that celebrates regional identity through visual and auditory discovery. This program is specifically tailored for those managing memory changes, ensuring a supportive and comfortable setting for everyone involved. We encourage you to join us for an afternoon of shared inspiration and community connection. This event provides a unique opportunity to explore culture in an inclusive atmosphere. Please register in advance to reserve your space for this enriching monthly experience. We look forward to welcoming you and your care partner to our next session.

Wave Movement and lululemon Fenton are hosting an outdoor mat Pilates class designed to improve core strength, control, and breath work. This session focuses on intentional movement through a structured workout set to engaging music. It provides an opportunity to practice physical wellness in an open-air environment alongside a supportive community. After the Pilates session concludes, attendees are invited into the lululemon store for social time and refreshments. You can browse the latest lululemon and Wave Movement merchandise or participate in an exclusive event giveaway. This experience is open to everyone, whether you are attending alone or with a group of friends. It is an ideal fit for individuals seeking a high-quality, community-oriented fitness experience that combines exercise with social connection. The atmosphere is professional yet welcoming, ensuring every participant feels comfortable and included. Join us for this unique morning session to refresh your routine and connect with local movement enthusiasts. Please register in advance to secure your spot for this collaborative fitness event. We look forward to seeing you there.

Queer Lake Day is an inclusive community gathering held at the local lake, offering a relaxed environment for people to connect and enjoy the water together. This event serves as an open space for individuals of all ages to enjoy a day outdoors in a welcoming and supportive setting. Attendees can expect a classic beach day experience featuring swimming, sunbathing, and socializing. Please plan to bring your own snacks, drinks, sunscreen, and pool floaties to make the most of your time by the water. There is no formal programming, allowing guests to relax and interact at their own pace throughout the day. This event is perfect for those looking to meet new people or enjoy a peaceful day in nature. While the event itself is free, please note that the park charges a ten dollar entrance fee per vehicle. Carpooling is highly recommended to help manage costs. Please remember that park regulations strictly prohibit alcohol and pets on the swim beach. We invite you to pack your essentials and join us for a fun day under the sun.