Bicentennial Folklife Festival 50th Anniversary Pop-Up

Raleigh's All-American Summer Festival is an upcoming community event held in downtown Raleigh to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the United States. This high-energy celebration brings people together for a full day of culture and festivities commemorating this historic milestone. Attendees can enjoy a wide range of activities suitable for all ages. The festival features an extensive lineup of local food trucks and dessert vendors offering diverse culinary options. Guests will find various carnival games and prizes, including a duck race, alongside a dedicated kids zone for younger participants. Live music performances will provide entertainment throughout the day on the main stage. The event also hosts interactive contests, such as a cutest dog competition and a summer outfit showcase, inviting guests to participate directly in the fun. This festival is designed for families, friends, and anyone looking to enjoy a vibrant community atmosphere in the heart of the city. Whether you are interested in local music, delicious food, or friendly competitions, there is something for everyone. Plan to join us in downtown Raleigh for this memorable summer experience and celebrate this significant national anniversary with your neighbors.

Get ready to celebrate the season at the Blueberry Bonanza, hosted at The Plant in beautiful Pittsboro, North Carolina. This exciting event takes place on Saturday, July 11, 2026, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., offering a fantastic opportunity for the community to gather and enjoy the peak of blueberry season. As a vibrant, family-friendly celebration, this gathering highlights local culture and the simple joys of summer harvest in a relaxed outdoor setting. Attendees can look forward to a lively atmosphere filled with music, seasonal refreshments, and a true sense of togetherness. This event is entirely free to the public, making it the perfect way to spend a summer evening with friends and family. Whether you are a local enthusiast or just looking for a fun weekend activity, there is something here for everyone to appreciate. We invite you to join us at 192 Lorax Lane to experience the best of what our area has to offer. Make sure to mark your calendar today and prepare for a memorable evening of food, fun, and community spirit. We cannot wait to see you there for this delightful summer celebration.

This event features a live musical performance by legendary singer-songwriter Paul Simon. Attendees will experience an evening of classic hits and celebrated compositions from one of the most influential figures in modern rock music history. The program highlights Simon's extensive career, spanning his early folk-rock roots with Simon and Garfunkel to his groundbreaking solo work. Fans can expect a curated setlist featuring iconic tracks like Mother and Child Reunion, 50 Ways to Leave Your Lover, and selections from the acclaimed Graceland album. The performance showcases his unique ability to blend pop, gospel, R and B, and international rhythms into a cohesive live experience. This concert is designed for music enthusiasts who appreciate masterful songwriting and storytelling. Whether you are a long-time follower of his diverse discography or new to his sound, the atmosphere offers a sophisticated yet energetic environment. Secure your tickets now to witness a living legend on stage as he delivers a career-spanning performance that celebrates decades of musical innovation. Do not miss this rare opportunity to see an iconic artist perform in an intimate setting.

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!

Celebrate the height of summer at the Carrboro Farmers Market during our annual Tomato Day event. With over 70 unique varieties grown by our local partners, this gathering is a must for food enthusiasts and families alike. Experience the vibrant flavors of the season with freshly sliced tomato samples and gain culinary inspiration from expert guest chefs who will be showcasing creative ways to prepare these garden favorites. Beyond the delicious produce, you can participate in a raffle featuring over 25 exciting prizes donated by local Carrboro businesses. Be sure to pick up our limited-edition merchandise, including custom t-shirts and posters designed specifically for this year's celebration. This event is a fantastic opportunity to support our hardworking local farmers while enjoying the community atmosphere that makes our market so special. Admission to the market is free, and we invite everyone to join us at the Carrboro Town Commons for a morning dedicated to celebrating local agriculture. Mark your calendars and bring your friends and family for an unforgettable day of community, food, and fun.

Experience the creative heartbeat of the community at the Durham Craft Market, held every Saturday morning at the vibrant Durham Central Park. This juried collective showcases the exceptional talents of over fifty local artisans, all of whom live and work within thirty miles of the city. Whether you are searching for one of a kind handmade goods or simply looking to connect with neighborhood creators, this market offers an unparalleled opportunity to support local talent in a lively, welcoming atmosphere. From the warm months of spring through the brisk mornings of winter, our vendors bring their best work to Foster Street for your enjoyment. The event is free to attend, making it the perfect weekend destination for residents and visitors alike. Browse through a curated selection of unique crafts while enjoying the refreshing outdoor setting of the park. We encourage you to check our official Facebook page for any schedule adjustments before you visit. Come out this Saturday to discover your new favorite piece of art and celebrate the incredible craftsmanship that defines the Durham area. We look forward to seeing you there.

Join the Wake Audubon Society for a guided birding excursion in the Museum Park on the second Saturday morning of every month. This recurring event invites community members to explore the diverse avian population thriving within our natural landscapes. Participants will walk through the park to identify local and migratory bird species alongside experienced naturalists. You can expect to learn about bird identification techniques, seasonal behaviors, and the specific habitats within the park grounds. Whether you are observing through binoculars or practicing bird photography, this session offers a focused look at regional wildlife in an accessible outdoor setting. These sessions provide an excellent opportunity to expand your nature knowledge while enjoying fresh air. This event is perfect for birders of all experience levels, from curious beginners to seasoned enthusiasts. The atmosphere is social, educational, and relaxed. Please dress appropriately for the weather and wear comfortable walking shoes for outdoor terrain. We encourage you to bring your own binoculars if you have them. Come connect with fellow nature lovers and discover the birds that call our museum home. We look forward to seeing you at our next morning session.

Embark on an enlightening journey through time at Crowder County Park with our Life on the Land guided hike. This immersive experience invites participants to explore the beautiful natural landscape while uncovering the rich history of rural Wake County. Led by an expert park historian, you will walk approximately one mile across both paved and natural trails, discovering how local residents have lived, worked, and thrived in this region for over three hundred years. This educational program is designed for ages ten and up, providing a unique perspective on the intersection of human history and the natural environment. As you traverse the scenic forests and open spaces, you will gain a deeper appreciation for the stories that have shaped our community over the centuries. Please dress appropriately for the weather to ensure a comfortable outdoor experience. Space is limited, so we encourage you to secure your spot today by registering through the official park website. Join us for this engaging look into our past and connect with the heritage of your local park.

Experience history in action at Historic Yates Mill County Park in Raleigh. As the last operable water-powered gristmill in Wake County, this site offers a unique glimpse into the agricultural past that defined our region over two centuries ago. During our recurring Mill Open House events, visitors can explore the historic structure while engaging with knowledgeable interpreters who share the fascinating mechanics and legacy of the gristmill. This educational drop-in experience allows you to witness the power of water-driven machinery firsthand. Beyond the mill, our 174-acre wildlife refuge provides endless opportunities for discovery. Enjoy the beauty of local gardens, hike through our diverse trails, or participate in one of our many seasonal public programs ranging from naturalist-led treks to family-friendly field activities. Whether you are a local history enthusiast or an outdoor adventurer, there is something here for everyone to enjoy. We invite you to visit our website to view the full schedule of upcoming programs and plan your trip. Admission is free, so gather your friends and family to explore the heritage and natural beauty of Yates Mill today.

This lecture explores the history of the American Revolutionary era by examining the lives of lesser known figures through an LGBTQ+ perspective. Hosted by Megan L. Cherry, an associate professor of history at North Carolina State University, the event reexamines the conventional narrative of the war for independence. You will discover how gender and sexuality were actively contested during the late eighteenth century in North America. Professor Cherry will present research on individuals whose stories are often missing from traditional textbooks. The session highlights social dynamics that shaped early American identity. Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of how personal experiences of gender and sexuality intersected with the political turmoil of the revolution. The presentation focuses on historical evidence and academic analysis of these overlooked lives. This event is designed for history enthusiasts, students, and anyone interested in a broader look at American history. It offers a professional and engaging environment for intellectual growth and discovery. Join us for this insightful look into the complexities of the past. Please register online to secure your spot for this informative session.

Step back in time and explore the rich heritage of firefighting at the Raleigh Fire Museum. Located at the Keeter Training Center, our facility serves as a vibrant collection of artifacts and images documenting over 150 years of public safety history in the Capitol City. Visitors of all ages are invited to discover the evolution of fire service through our impressive displays of antique fire engines and historical equipment. The experience is designed to be interactive and engaging for the whole family. Guests have the unique opportunity to touch a vintage fire truck and learn the mechanics of firefighting, including a chance to spray a real fire hose. Whether you are a local resident or a visitor to the area, this is an excellent opportunity to gain a deeper appreciation for the brave men and women who have protected our community for generations. We encourage you to visit us on the second Saturday of each month between 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. Feel free to browse our museum store for unique souvenirs. For those with specific group needs, tours are also available by special appointment. We look forward to welcoming you soon.

First Kiss is an expressive dance production that explores human connection by transforming real life memories into movement. This project features dancers sharing personal stories of their first romantic encounters through a blend of spoken word and physical performance. The work aims to capture the universal vulnerability and excitement associated with those early milestones. Author Mimi Herman provides the narrative structure, crafting stories that balance humor with genuine tenderness. Choreographer Gerri Houlihan translates these texts into intimate stage movements. The performance focuses on authenticity, using the dancers own histories to ground the choreography in reality. Expect a series of short vignettes that highlight the complexity of early intimacy. This show is designed for anyone who appreciates storytelling through contemporary dance. The atmosphere is thoughtful and engaging, making it a perfect outing for those interested in performance art that feels relatable and human. The production invites the audience to reflect on their own experiences while enjoying a unique fusion of text and motion. Please join us for this presentation to experience how memories are reimagined on stage through professional movement and creative writing.

Experience the vibrant past of North Carolina's capital city with the Historic Raleigh Trolley Tours. This engaging one-hour excursion offers a comprehensive look at Downtown Raleigh, taking passengers past significant historic landmarks and architectural treasures. Since the city's founding in 1792, Raleigh has evolved into a cultural hub, and our knowledgeable guides are eager to share fascinating stories about the community and local history throughout your journey. Tours depart from the beautiful Mordecai Historic Park on Saturdays between March and December, featuring convenient start times at 11 a.m., 12 p.m., 1 p.m., and 2 p.m. Whether you are a local resident or a visiting tourist, this trolley experience provides a comfortable and educational way to explore the heart of the city. Tickets are affordably priced at ten dollars for adults, six dollars for youth, and children aged six and under ride for free. We invite you to secure your seat today to ensure you do not miss out on this captivating adventure. Please book your tickets online, call our visitor center, or visit us directly at Mordecai Historic Park to start your journey into Raleigh history.