Big Art Bash

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!

This two-session workshop teaches woodworking fundamentals through the creation of a custom cutting board. Students will apply essential milling and cutting techniques to build a unique, functional piece for their kitchen while gaining hands-on experience with core shop machinery. During the first session, you will mill lumber, cut your pieces to size, and complete the initial glue-up. In the second session, you will refine your design using various shaping and profiling tools to achieve a finished, professional look. This project serves as an excellent intermediate step for those interested in advancing toward furniture projects like box-making. This class is designed for individuals who have already completed a woodshop introduction or possess a strong familiarity with the jointer, planer, and table saw. The environment is focused and collaborative, making it ideal for makers looking to sharpen their precision and confidence. If you meet the safety prerequisites and want to take your woodworking skills to the next level, sign up now to secure your spot in this intensive, two-day training course.

Mindful Museum is a guided wellness program that connects art observation with mindfulness practices. This seasonal event invites participants to explore themes found within our permanent collection to encourage deeper self reflection and mental clarity during the busy summer months. Each session begins with a focused look at a selected piece of art. Facilitators will lead attendees through a structured observation process designed to sharpen awareness and aesthetic appreciation. Following this exploration, you will participate in a guided meditation session tailored to the mood and narrative of the featured artwork. These activities help foster a sense of calm and provide practical tools for integrating mindfulness into your daily life. This event is open to everyone regardless of prior experience with meditation or art history. Whether you are seeking a quiet break from your routine or a unique way to engage with our gallery, you will find a supportive and tranquil atmosphere here. We encourage you to join us to reconnect with yourself and your surroundings. Please reserve your spot online to ensure your place in this restorative experience.

Fiber Art: Through the Ages is a curated exhibition and reception celebrating the evolution of textile crafts. This event showcases a diverse collection of vintage items spanning from the 1860s to the present day, highlighting the history and artistry behind various needlework traditions. Attendees will view a rare assortment of historical pieces including an 1860s Penny rug, 1890s Crazy Quilts, and a 1936 feed sack quilt. The collection also features crochet, needlepoint, rag rugs, and handmade clothing sourced from estate sales and thrift shops. A special feature of the display includes handmade contributions from On The Mend, a group based at the local senior center that supports hospital patients through craft. This reception is designed for history enthusiasts, textile artists, and anyone interested in the preservation of traditional crafts. The atmosphere is educational and welcoming, offering a unique opportunity to learn about the stories behind these vintage treasures. Join us to appreciate the dedication of collectors like Joy Masepoli and support the community efforts of the On The Mend project. We look forward to seeing you at this celebration of fiber arts heritage.

Pilates in the Park is a guided fitness session hosted by the Morrisville Parks, Recreation and Cultural Resources Department. This event celebrates National Parks and Recreation Month by inviting the community to enjoy healthy movement in an outdoor setting. Participants will engage in a beginner friendly pilates routine designed to improve core strength, flexibility, and overall posture. Led by certified instructors, the session focuses on controlled movements and breathing techniques suitable for all skill levels. The class takes place in a local park, providing a refreshing environment that connects physical wellness with nature. Attendees can expect a supportive group atmosphere where the pace remains steady and accessible for everyone involved. This event is perfect for local residents looking to incorporate more activity into their daily routine while enjoying the summer season. Whether you are a regular practitioner or new to fitness, this session offers a great way to start your day with energy. Please bring your own exercise mat, comfortable clothing, and a water bottle to stay hydrated. We encourage you to join us this July to celebrate community health and wellness.

Get ready for a summer of cinematic fun at Marquee Cinemas Wakefield 12 in Raleigh. We are thrilled to invite families to our annual free summer movie program running from June 16 through August 5, 2026. This is the perfect opportunity to keep the children entertained on Tuesday and Wednesday mornings without breaking the bank. Guests can choose between two film screenings each day starting at 9:30 a.m. and 9:45 a.m. respectively. To make your experience even more enjoyable, we are offering special concession pricing throughout the series. You can grab a junior drink and popcorn combo for only 4.50 dollars or opt for our small drink and popcorn bundle for 8.50 dollars. Whether you are looking to escape the heat or simply create lasting memories, our theater provides the ideal venue for your weekly family outings. We encourage you to visit our website to view the full 2026 movie schedule and plan your visits in advance. Join us at the theater this season and enjoy these complimentary screenings with your loved ones for an unforgettable summer experience.

Triangle Cinemas is excited to host an incredible summer lineup of free movies for children at their location on 9500 Forum Drive in Raleigh, North Carolina. Starting June 16 and running through August 20, 2026, families are invited to enjoy screenings every Tuesday through Thursday, with select Fridays also included in the schedule. Doors open promptly at 9:30 a.m., with showtimes beginning at 10:00 a.m. This is a fantastic opportunity for parents to keep children entertained and engaged during the summer break without any admission cost. While attendees are not permitted to bring outside food or drink into the theater, a full selection of delicious refreshments will be available at the concessions stand for purchase. This program is part of a larger initiative to provide accessible and affordable entertainment options throughout the Triangle area. We encourage families to visit our website for the complete list of scheduled films and additional resources regarding local events. Gather your friends and family for a memorable morning of cinematic fun and mark your calendars to ensure you do not miss these great screenings.

The Nasher Museum of Art at Duke University proudly presents the Monthly Reflections Tour, a specialized program crafted for individuals living with dementia and their care partners. This inclusive initiative provides a welcoming space to engage with art through a guided ninety-minute experience held on the second Tuesday of each month. Each session features a rotating theme designed specifically to support those with memory loss while ensuring full physical accessibility within our beautiful gallery setting. Participants are invited to explore the collection through meaningful conversation and creative activities that prioritize connection and discovery in a comfortable environment. Whether you are a regular visitor or joining us for the first time, this program offers a supportive community atmosphere where art becomes a bridge for shared experiences. We strive to make cultural enrichment accessible to everyone regardless of their health journey. Please note that while these tours are free, registration is required to ensure an optimal experience for all guests. To secure your spot or learn more about our upcoming monthly themes, please reach out to our team at reflections at duke dot edu. We look forward to welcoming you to the Nasher.

Mindful Museum is a guided wellness program that connects art observation with mindfulness practices. This seasonal event invites participants to explore themes found within our permanent collection to encourage deeper self reflection and mental clarity during the busy summer months. Each session begins with a focused look at a selected piece of art. Facilitators will lead attendees through a structured observation process designed to sharpen awareness and aesthetic appreciation. Following this exploration, you will participate in a guided meditation session tailored to the mood and narrative of the featured artwork. These activities help foster a sense of calm and provide practical tools for integrating mindfulness into your daily life. This event is open to everyone regardless of prior experience with meditation or art history. Whether you are seeking a quiet break from your routine or a unique way to engage with our gallery, you will find a supportive and tranquil atmosphere here. We encourage you to join us to reconnect with yourself and your surroundings. Please reserve your spot online to ensure your place in this restorative experience.

NCMA After Hours is a recurring monthly event designed to provide after-hours access to the museum galleries for an evening of art and socializing. This event invites visitors to engage with the People Collection in a relaxed setting during the summer months. It serves as a creative hub for those looking to experience the museum beyond standard daytime operating hours. Attendees can explore the galleries while enjoying live music or DJ sets that provide a dynamic backdrop to the exhibits. The program includes interactive, hands-on art activities inspired by the featured collections. Food and drinks are available for purchase at the NCMA Cafe throughout the evening, allowing guests to refresh while navigating the space. These elements combine to offer a multifaceted cultural experience. This event is open to anyone interested in arts, music, and community connection. The atmosphere is intended to be lively, welcoming, and accessible for both new and returning visitors. We invite you to join us for an evening of inspiration and creative energy. Come to view the art, enjoy the music, and meet fellow community members.