What to Do This Weekend
Join 10,000+ Triangle locals who get our curated weekend guide sent straight to their inbox
✓ Free
✓ 1 email per week
✓ Unsubscribe anytime
BEYOND: The Cary Film Festival
Venue
The Cary Theater
Location
Cary
Address
122 E. Chatham St., Cary, NC 27511
(235.9 mi)
Price
Ticket Sales Aug 13,2026.
Description
BEYOND: The Cary Film Festival is an annual gathering in Cary, North Carolina, dedicated to the art of short filmmaking and screenwriting. This event connects local and national creators with audiences to celebrate storytelling through the lens of independent cinema.
Attendees can expect a diverse showcase of short film screenings and professional screenplay readings. The schedule includes educational workshops and panel discussions led by industry veterans. These sessions offer practical insights into the craft of film production and narrative development. The festival highlights excellence in storytelling by featuring winning works from across the country throughout the multi-day event.
This festival is designed for filmmakers, industry professionals, and film enthusiasts who appreciate high-quality creative work. The atmosphere is collaborative and professional, providing an excellent environment for networking and artistic inspiration. Whether you are a seasoned filmmaker or a fan of short-form cinema, this festival provides a unique opportunity to engage with the creative community in the heart of the Triangle. We invite you to join us this fall to experience the latest in short film and support the next generation of screenwriters and directors.
Discover More Events
Featured Events
The best upcoming events you won’t want to miss
-
Jaipur Literature Festival
3800 Hillsborough St, Raleigh, NC 27607
The third edition of JLF North Carolina, an international edition of the renowned Jaipur Literature Festival, comes to Raleigh September 11–13, 2026, bringing the spirit of one of the world's leading literary festivals to the Triangle.
Celebrating the many arts, stories, and histories of Raleigh—the “City of Oaks”—JLF North Carolina will feature thought-provoking conversations, compelling performances, author sessions, and cultural experiences exploring literature, ideas, history, society, and the world around us. The festival will take place at Meredith College and NC State’s Institute for Emerging Issues.
The program will bring together acclaimed authors, artists, thinkers, journalists, and cultural leaders from North Carolina and around the world. The 2026 lineup includes Belle Boggs, Jeff Tiberii, Karan Mahajan, Bob Crawford, and many more.
The Jaipur Literature Festival takes place annually in Jaipur, India, and is internationally celebrated as the “greatest literary show on Earth.” Its spirit now travels through international editions across the US, UK, Canada, Spain, the Maldives, and Australia, bringing together diverse literary traditions and the unique culture of each host region.
JLF North Carolina offers readers, families, students, educators, writers, and curious minds an opportunity to discover new perspectives, hear remarkable stories, and experience the power of books and ideas right here in Raleigh.
233.8 mi
•
$12.07–$56.84 per ticket, including fees & taxes
-
Lakeside Retreats Family Fest
4521 Mial Plantation Rd
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!
235 mi
•
Free
-
Parents Night Out: Kids Laser Tag Night
at Battle House Laser Tag - Wake Forest, Raleigh
Four hours for them. Four hours for YOU.
Drop the kids off at Battle House Laser Tag for a night packed with laser tag, pizza, a movie, and more laser tag.
Meanwhile, you can go to dinner, catch a movie, run errands, enjoy a quiet house, or simply remember what it feels like to finish a sentence without being interrupted.
Details
Ages: 7 to 13
Time: 5 PM to 9 PM
Price: $49 per child
What's Included
-4 hours total
-Approximately 3 hours of Battle House Laser Tag
-Large slice of pizza and a drink
-Movie time during dinner, then more laser tag time
For Parents: Four glorious hours where parents do not have to entertain anyone
Reserve tickets at: https://ecom.roller.app/battlehousefayetteville/parentsnightout/en-us/products
221.1 mi
•
$49
-
Safe Homes, Strong Families Resource Day
Abbotts Creek Community Center, 9950 Durant Road, Raleigh, NC 27614
Safe Homes, Strong Families Resource Day is a free community event presented by PR Home Care for older adults, family caregivers, and families who want to plan ahead and connect with trusted local resources before a crisis occurs.
Meet local professionals and learn about fall prevention, aging in place and home safety, dementia and caregiver support, planning, medication safety, home organization, and other resources that can support safer, more independent living.
Aging in Place North Carolina will provide a featured presentation, “How to Safely and Comfortably Age in the Home You Love.”
The event will also include community resources, giveaways, and complimentary light refreshments while supplies last.
Free and open to the public. Walk-ins are welcome.
225.2 mi
•
Free
More events from The Cary Theater
-
BEYOND Film Festival Masterclass
at DCP Gathering House, Cary
The BEYOND Film Festival is an annual event in Cary, North Carolina, dedicated to celebrating the art of short filmmaking and screenwriting. Hosted at the historic Cary Theater, the festival provides a platform for both emerging and established filmmakers to share their work with engaged audiences. It serves as a creative hub for industry professionals and enthusiasts alike to connect and collaborate.
Attendees can participate in a variety of screenings, panel discussions, and professional workshops. This eighth edition expands the experience by hosting specific workshops within the nearby Downtown Cary Park. Participants will engage with global short films and gain practical insights from industry experts through diverse programming designed to foster professional growth and creative exchange.
The festival is ideal for filmmakers, screenwriters, and cinema fans looking for an intimate, high-quality event. With all sessions and social activities located within walking distance of the theater, the festival offers an accessible and immersive environment for networking and learning. Join us in downtown Cary to celebrate global storytelling and refine your craft alongside a community of dedicated film professionals. Register today to secure your place at this year’s sessions.
236.2 mi
•
Tickets available for purchase starting August 11 via The Cary Theater website. Each workshop requires a ticket in order to attend. This event is suitable for ages 16+.
-
Demystifying FilmFreeway: Insider Strategies for Festival Success with Crickett Rumley
at Gathering House, Cary
This workshop provides essential training for filmmakers looking to optimize their submissions on FilmFreeway. Participants will learn how to navigate the platform effectively to identify high-value festival opportunities while avoiding common submission pitfalls that waste time and budget.
Led by industry expert Crickett Rumley, the session covers how to build a professional profile and maintain a compelling project presence. Attendees will learn to evaluate festival listings using Film Festival Alliance best practices. You will discover how to distinguish legitimate festivals from low-value pay-to-play events. The curriculum includes practical techniques for reading filmmaker reviews, spotting red flags in submission requirements, and interpreting rules to ensure your project is a good fit before paying any fees.
This event is designed for filmmakers at all stages of their career who want to manage their festival strategy with confidence. If you are preparing a festival run, this workshop provides the insights necessary to target the right events for your specific goals. Join us to refine your submission process and maximize the impact of your festival budget.
236.2 mi
•
$9.32
In Your Backyard: Finding Crew, Funding and Resources for Your Next NC Film
at Gathering House, Cary
This workshop provides filmmakers with the essential tools and professional connections needed to produce independent projects within North Carolina. The event simplifies the local production landscape by connecting participants with organizations that offer financial support, technical resources, and professional networking opportunities.
Attendees will hear from an expert panel including Blake Kinsey from The New Carolinas Film Collective, Dara Silver from the North Carolina Arts Council, and Christopher Everett from the Southern Documentary Fund. These industry leaders will share practical guidance on securing artist grants, finding reliable crew members, and navigating regional production resources. The session highlights actionable steps for moving projects from concept to completion using local infrastructure.
This event is designed for independent directors, producers, and creative teams looking to strengthen their local presence. The atmosphere is professional and collaborative, making it an ideal environment to ask specific questions about funding requirements and community engagement. Register now to gain the insights necessary to elevate your next film production and build a sustainable career within the North Carolina filmmaking community.
236.2 mi
•
$9.32
More Annual Events
Recurring annual events and traditions in Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill.
,
Shows daily, Thurs.-Sat.
Hopscotch Music Festival
at City Plaza, Moore Square and venues around downtown Raleigh, Downtown Raleigh
Hopscotch Music Festival is an annual multi-day event held in Downtown Raleigh featuring a diverse lineup of musical performances. The festival returns September 10-12 and serves as a premier destination for music enthusiasts to experience live shows across multiple local venues.
Attendees can expect an extensive schedule featuring established bands alongside emerging artists from various genres. The event highlights include intimate club sets, large scale outdoor performances, and unique artistic showcases scattered throughout the downtown core. This structure allows participants to explore different neighborhoods while discovering new music and catching sets from their favorite acts.
The festival is designed for fans of live music who enjoy a vibrant and immersive city experience. Whether you are a local resident or a visitor, the event provides a unique way to engage with the Raleigh arts scene. You can purchase passes for the 2026 festival starting on May 1. Mark your calendars now to secure your access to this energetic weekend of discovery and entertainment. Join us this September for a memorable celebration of live music and community.
234.6 mi
•
Visit website for current prices and ticket availability.
-
Hopscotch Music Festival
at City Plaza, Moore Square and venues around downtown Raleigh, Downtown Raleigh
Hopscotch Music Festival is an annual multi-day event held in downtown Raleigh that showcases a diverse lineup of musical performances across various local venues. Scheduled for September 10 to 12, the festival serves as a cultural hub for music enthusiasts to experience live shows in the heart of the city.
Attendees can expect an extensive schedule featuring both established bands and emerging artists across multiple stages. The event spans the downtown area, allowing guests to transition easily between venues while discovering new sounds and enjoying high-quality production. Beyond the music, the festival highlights the vibrant urban environment of Raleigh, providing a unique backdrop for curated live sets and unforgettable performances.
This event is designed for music lovers who enjoy discovering new talent in an energetic, walkable city setting. The atmosphere is centered on community and exploration, making it ideal for those looking to immerse themselves in a dense weekend of live entertainment. Passes for the 2026 festival go on sale May 1. Plan your trip to Raleigh early to secure your spot for this essential musical gathering.
234.3 mi
•
Visit website for current prices and ticket availability.
9/11 Remembrance Ceremony
at Fuquay-Varina Arts Center, Fuquay-Varina
The 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony is a formal public gathering dedicated to honoring the sacrifices of first responders and remembering the lives lost on September 11, 2001. This event provides our community with a meaningful space to reflect on the events of that day and express gratitude to those who serve on the front lines every day. We invite all residents to join us in this collective act of commemoration and solidarity.
The ceremony will feature a series of solemn tributes, including a moment of silence and a ceremonial presentation of the colors. Attendees will hear brief remarks from local community leaders and first responder representatives who share personal reflections on service and resilience. The program is designed to be concise yet impactful, ensuring that our shared commitment to never forget remains at the forefront of the experience.
This event is open to all community members seeking to pay their respects in a quiet and supportive environment. Please arrive early to secure seating as we prepare to honor this significant moment together. We look forward to your presence as we unite to observe this day of national remembrance.
249.8 mi
•
Free
More Festivals
Festivals of all types happening across Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill.
,
Shows daily, Thurs.-Sat.
Hopscotch Music Festival
at City Plaza, Moore Square and venues around downtown Raleigh, Downtown Raleigh
Hopscotch Music Festival is an annual multi-day event held in Downtown Raleigh featuring a diverse lineup of musical performances. The festival returns September 10-12 and serves as a premier destination for music enthusiasts to experience live shows across multiple local venues.
Attendees can expect an extensive schedule featuring established bands alongside emerging artists from various genres. The event highlights include intimate club sets, large scale outdoor performances, and unique artistic showcases scattered throughout the downtown core. This structure allows participants to explore different neighborhoods while discovering new music and catching sets from their favorite acts.
The festival is designed for fans of live music who enjoy a vibrant and immersive city experience. Whether you are a local resident or a visitor, the event provides a unique way to engage with the Raleigh arts scene. You can purchase passes for the 2026 festival starting on May 1. Mark your calendars now to secure your access to this energetic weekend of discovery and entertainment. Join us this September for a memorable celebration of live music and community.
234.6 mi
•
Visit website for current prices and ticket availability.
-
Hopscotch Music Festival
at City Plaza, Moore Square and venues around downtown Raleigh, Downtown Raleigh
Hopscotch Music Festival is an annual multi-day event held in downtown Raleigh that showcases a diverse lineup of musical performances across various local venues. Scheduled for September 10 to 12, the festival serves as a cultural hub for music enthusiasts to experience live shows in the heart of the city.
Attendees can expect an extensive schedule featuring both established bands and emerging artists across multiple stages. The event spans the downtown area, allowing guests to transition easily between venues while discovering new sounds and enjoying high-quality production. Beyond the music, the festival highlights the vibrant urban environment of Raleigh, providing a unique backdrop for curated live sets and unforgettable performances.
This event is designed for music lovers who enjoy discovering new talent in an energetic, walkable city setting. The atmosphere is centered on community and exploration, making it ideal for those looking to immerse themselves in a dense weekend of live entertainment. Passes for the 2026 festival go on sale May 1. Plan your trip to Raleigh early to secure your spot for this essential musical gathering.
234.3 mi
•
Visit website for current prices and ticket availability.
,
Jaipur Literature Festival North Carolina
at Jones Auditorium at Meredith College, West Raleigh
The Jaipur Literature Festival is a world renowned literary event returning to the Triangle area from September 11 to 13, 2026. This gathering celebrates global thinkers, poets, and writers, serving as a platform for cultural exchange and intellectual discourse through a series of engaging presentations and discussions.
This year the festival takes place at Meredith College on September 11 and 12, followed by a final day at the North Carolina State University Centennial Campus on September 13. Attendees can expect a diverse lineup of notable guests including Cheetie Kumar, Jaki Shelton Green, Joseph Bathanti, Karan Mahajan, Manil Suri, Pria Anand, Vijay Seshadri, and Vishwesh Bhatt. These sessions provide unique opportunities to hear from influential authors and storytellers who have shaped the modern literary landscape.
This festival is designed for readers, students, and anyone interested in contemporary global literature and arts. The atmosphere is professional, energetic, and highly inclusive, making it an ideal environment for those looking to expand their perspectives. We encourage you to join us for this landmark production alongside our partners at Artsplosure to experience an unforgettable celebration of words and ideas.
233.8 mi
•
Friday Pass: $35 GA, $25 Educator, $10 Student Admission to opening night ceremony and keynote speech
Saturday Pass: $50 GA, $25 Educator, $10 Student Admission to all Saturday programming
More Film & Cinema
Film screenings, movie festivals, outdoor cinema, and film-related events.
-
Demystifying FilmFreeway: Insider Strategies for Festival Success with Crickett Rumley
at Gathering House, Cary
This workshop provides essential training for filmmakers looking to optimize their submissions on FilmFreeway. Participants will learn how to navigate the platform effectively to identify high-value festival opportunities while avoiding common submission pitfalls that waste time and budget.
Led by industry expert Crickett Rumley, the session covers how to build a professional profile and maintain a compelling project presence. Attendees will learn to evaluate festival listings using Film Festival Alliance best practices. You will discover how to distinguish legitimate festivals from low-value pay-to-play events. The curriculum includes practical techniques for reading filmmaker reviews, spotting red flags in submission requirements, and interpreting rules to ensure your project is a good fit before paying any fees.
This event is designed for filmmakers at all stages of their career who want to manage their festival strategy with confidence. If you are preparing a festival run, this workshop provides the insights necessary to target the right events for your specific goals. Join us to refine your submission process and maximize the impact of your festival budget.
236.2 mi
•
$9.32
In Your Backyard: Finding Crew, Funding and Resources for Your Next NC Film
at Gathering House, Cary
This workshop provides filmmakers with the essential tools and professional connections needed to produce independent projects within North Carolina. The event simplifies the local production landscape by connecting participants with organizations that offer financial support, technical resources, and professional networking opportunities.
Attendees will hear from an expert panel including Blake Kinsey from The New Carolinas Film Collective, Dara Silver from the North Carolina Arts Council, and Christopher Everett from the Southern Documentary Fund. These industry leaders will share practical guidance on securing artist grants, finding reliable crew members, and navigating regional production resources. The session highlights actionable steps for moving projects from concept to completion using local infrastructure.
This event is designed for independent directors, producers, and creative teams looking to strengthen their local presence. The atmosphere is professional and collaborative, making it an ideal environment to ask specific questions about funding requirements and community engagement. Register now to gain the insights necessary to elevate your next film production and build a sustainable career within the North Carolina filmmaking community.
236.2 mi
•
$9.32
Together We Rise: Shorts
at The Cary Theater, Cary
Together We Rise is a curated film screening event featuring a collection of powerful short films. The program highlights stories of communities confronting adversity and systemic injustice through resilience and collective action. This series showcases the strength found in advocacy and the transformative power of mutual support. Attendees will watch a diverse selection of documentaries and narratives that focus on social change and human perseverance. Each film serves as a window into real world struggles and the inspiring ways individuals come together to enact progress. You will engage with thought provoking visual storytelling that emphasizes hope and community care. This screening is designed for filmmakers, activists, and anyone interested in social justice cinema. The atmosphere is centered on reflection and meaningful dialogue regarding the urgent issues facing our world today. Please join us for this compelling experience to broaden your perspective and connect with fellow attendees who share a passion for advocacy. Tickets are available online now. We encourage you to secure your spot early to ensure participation in this unique cinematic event. We look forward to welcoming you to an evening of impactful film and community connection.
236.2 mi
•
$4.66+
Submit or promote your event in Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill & the Triangle
Submit EventFree • No account required • Instant listing • Open to All