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Birds and Bloomers
Date and Time
September 21, 2026, Mon., 8-9am
Organizer
Downtown Cary Park
Venue
DCP Guest Services
Location
Cary
Address
327 S. Academy St., Cary, NC 27511
(236.2 mi)
Price
Free. This program is for ages 18 and older. Please register
Description
Birds and Bloomers is an educational outdoor tour focused on identifying local flowering plants and bird species within Downtown Cary Park. Participants will explore the park alongside an expert naturalist to observe how native flora and avian populations coexist in an urban environment.
Dr. Patrick McMillan, an Emmy-award winning naturalist and horticulturist, will lead the session. Attendees will learn specific techniques for identifying birds by their distinct calls, visual characteristics, and behavioral patterns. The tour also covers practical landscaping strategies to support local wildlife, providing actionable advice for creating bird-friendly habitats in private backyards. Please bring personal binoculars to ensure the best viewing experience during the session.
This event is designed for nature enthusiasts, gardeners, and anyone interested in local ecology. The atmosphere is interactive, professional, and accessible for all skill levels. Whether you are a seasoned birder or a curious beginner, this session offers a unique opportunity to gain expert insights into regional biodiversity. Register today to join this guided walk and deepen your understanding of the natural beauty thriving in our community.
Discover More Events
Featured Events
The best upcoming events you won’t want to miss
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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
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$12.07–$56.84 per ticket, including fees & taxes
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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
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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 Downtown Cary Park
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Jazz’d Up Sundays: Niki Haris feat. the Christian Tamburr Band
at Downtown Cary Park Great Lawn & Pavilion, Cary
Jazz’d Up Sundays is a free public concert series held at Downtown Cary Park featuring live contemporary jazz performances. This recurring event highlights talented musicians in an engaging outdoor setting designed for community connection and musical appreciation.
This specific performance features vocalist Niki Haris and the Christian Tamburr Band in a program titled The Way You Make Me Feel. The ensemble presents fresh jazz, soul, and R&B interpretations of iconic Michael Jackson and Jackson 5 songs. Led by Christian Tamburr, the band emphasizes improvisation, unique arrangements, and rhythmic energy to transform legendary pop hits into modern jazz compositions. The performance showcases both the star power of Niki Haris and the technical artistry of the ensemble.
This event is open to all members of the public who enjoy live music and outdoor community gatherings. Whether you are a dedicated jazz enthusiast or simply looking for an enjoyable Sunday afternoon activity, this concert offers a sophisticated yet accessible atmosphere. Plan to arrive early to secure your spot at Downtown Cary Park for an afternoon of professional musical storytelling.
236.2 mi
•
Free
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Live at The Bark Bar: Sam Trebing
at DCP Bark Bar, Cary
Live at The Bark Bar is a recurring pop-up music series hosted at a local neighborhood venue. This event provides a space for community members to enjoy professional live music in an informal, open-air setting.
Featured performer Sam Trebing brings years of experience as a band member to his current solo project. He performs a curated set list that blends country and Americana influences, covering a variety of songs ranging from classic tracks to modern hits. His solo acoustic format highlights his unique vocal style and instrument proficiency.
This event is designed for music lovers, pet owners, and anyone looking for a relaxed social outing. The venue offers a dog-friendly environment where guests can enjoy beverages while listening to local talent. It is an ideal setting for those who prefer an unpretentious atmosphere over traditional concert venues. If you appreciate live music and a casual social environment, this performance offers a great way to unwind. We encourage you to visit us for an evening of entertainment and local music.
236.2 mi
•
Free
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Sunflower Prints
at DCP Academy Pavilion, Cary
Sunflower Prints is a creative art workshop where participants learn to craft unique sunflower paintings using real leaves as printing tools. This hands-on session focuses on the intersection of nature and fine art through the use of acrylic painting techniques on canvas. Students will discover how to capture organic textures and patterns to produce professional quality results. The process begins with selecting leaves to act as natural stamps. You will apply acrylic paint to the underside of these leaves before pressing them firmly onto your canvas to build a sunflower design. This methodical approach ensures that every participant leaves with a finished piece of art that reflects their own artistic choices. We provide all necessary supplies including high quality paints brushes and canvases for every student. This workshop is perfect for beginners and experienced artists alike who want to explore botanical printing in a structured environment. The atmosphere is collaborative and focused on learning new skills through direct practice. We encourage you to sign up soon to secure your spot in this artistic session as space is limited for each scheduled workshop date.
236.2 mi
•
Resident - $15, Non Resident - $20, please register. This program is for ages 18 and older.
More Education Outreach
Educational programs, lectures, and outreach activities for students and the community.
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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
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Sun., TBA
Jaipur Literature Festival NC
at North Carolina State University, West Raleigh
The Jaipur Literature Festival North Carolina is a premier literary event bringing the world's largest literature festival to the Triangle area. Hosted at Meredith College and NC State Centennial Campus, the festival celebrates global culture, literature, and discourse through an expansive program of international thought leadership. The event serves as a platform for intellectual exchange and creative inspiration. Attendees can expect a diverse caravan of thinkers, poets, novelists, and performers to lead discussions and readings. The program focuses on exploring contemporary narratives and historical perspectives through curated panels and interactive sessions. Previous years have featured renowned figures such as Jhumpa Lahiri, Kiran Desai, and Shashi Tharoor, highlighting the caliber of guests involved. This festival is designed for readers, writers, and anyone interested in global ideas and storytelling. The atmosphere is vibrant and intellectual, fostering connections between authors and their audience. Whether you are a literature enthusiast or a curious learner, this event offers a unique opportunity to engage with high-level speakers in an accessible environment. Plan your visit today to participate in this significant cultural gathering.
233.8 mi
•
TBA
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Rage Retreat with Redbud Writing Project
at North Carolina Museum of Art, West Raleigh
The Rage Retreat is a two-hour intensive writing workshop focused on harnessing anger as a creative catalyst for memoir and fiction. Led by Redbud Writing founders Emily and Arshia, this session provides a dedicated space for writers to explore emotional intensity through the written word. Participants will learn how to channel volatile feelings into vivid prose while refining their personal voice and narrative structure.
Throughout the workshop, attendees will engage with guided prompts and structured in-class writing exercises. These activities are designed to help you transform complex emotions into clear, compelling storytelling. You will gain practical techniques to maintain emotional clarity on the page, ensuring that your raw inspiration translates into intentional and effective prose. The sessions are crafted to turn internal frustration into artistic momentum.
This workshop is open to writers of all experience levels and backgrounds. Whether you are a beginner or an established author, you will find a supportive environment to experiment with bold themes. Join us to refine your craft and explore the productive potential of your voice. Register today to secure your place in this transformative writing experience.
233.3 mi
•
General Admission $40 | Members $30
More Free Events
Free events happening across Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill including community gatherings, live entertainment, public programs, and seasonal celebrations.
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The Raleigh Market
at Raleigh Market (at N.C. State Fairgrounds),
Discover a treasure hunter paradise at The Raleigh Market, hosted every weekend at the North Carolina State Fairgrounds. Spanning hundreds of indoor and outdoor stalls, this vibrant marketplace offers an incredible variety of goods, ranging from high-end antiques and unique jewelry to practical power tools and local art. With over five decades of history, it remains a premier destination for shoppers seeking rare finds and bargain deals across the region. Admission and parking are completely free, making it an accessible weekend activity for everyone to enjoy.
Beyond the diverse retail offerings, the experience is enhanced by a rotating selection of local food trucks and fresh farm stands. Whether you are hunting for vintage collectibles or just looking to enjoy a pleasant day exploring, there is always something new to uncover. We invite you to visit us this Saturday or Sunday between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. to experience one of the most beloved traditions in the Triangle area. Follow our social media pages for the latest vendor updates and plan your visit to this spectacular community event today.
234.3 mi
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FREE
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Sunday Reset Series Pilates in the Park
at The Exchange Raleigh, Midtown Raleigh
The Sunday Reset Series is a weekly outdoor movement class hosted at The Exchange Park. This session invites the community to gather on the grassy lawn outside 1000 Social for a guided session focused on movement, mindfulness, and intentional preparation for the week ahead.
Participants will follow a flow yoga session led by experienced instructors from Current Wellness. The curriculum is designed to help you build physical strength, improve flexibility, and clear your mind. This session is part of a larger six week series meant to foster consistent healthy habits in an outdoor setting.
This event is designed for individuals of all fitness levels looking for an accessible way to start their Sunday with focus. The atmosphere is calm, welcoming, and community oriented. Whether you are a yoga regular or simply looking to enjoy the park, this class offers a structured environment to practice wellness. Please remember to bring your own yoga mat and a bottle of water to stay hydrated during the session. We look forward to seeing you on the lawn to reset and recharge.
230.6 mi
•
Free
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Thomas in the Garden at New Hope Valley Railway
at New Hope Valley Railway,
Experience the magic of the New Hope Valley Railway during the highly anticipated annual Thomas and his Friends in the Garden event. Held on September 12 and 13, 2026, this delightful gathering transforms the historic railway museum into a vibrant celebration of miniature railroading. Guests can marvel at the intricate G scale garden layout featuring ten operating tracks and over one thousand feet of rail line. Fans of all ages will be thrilled to spot Thomas, Percy, James, and other beloved characters journeying through a beautifully landscaped scene while Sir Topham Hatt greets visitors.
This event offers a fantastic opportunity for families to immerse themselves in a creative and nostalgic atmosphere. While admission to the garden display is entirely free, visitors can enhance their experience by purchasing tickets for a scenic excursion ride on a full sized train pulled by vintage diesel locomotives. Availability is limited, so we encourage you to book your train ride tickets online as soon as possible to ensure your spot. Join us in New Hill for a memorable weekend of rail adventure and family fun.
247.7 mi
•
FREE
More Nature & Outdoor Events
Outdoor experiences including park programs, guided hikes, environmental workshops, and seasonal activities in Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill.
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Family Fest 2026
at Lakeside Retreats, South Raleigh
Family Fest 2026 is an inclusive community event designed to provide families a dedicated space for connection, creativity, and outdoor recreation. The festival emphasizes slowing down to enjoy meaningful time together through a variety of engaging, low-pressure activities suitable for all ages.
Attendees can participate in a diverse range of experiences including community yoga, creative arts workshops, and organized field games. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy lake activities and fishing opportunities throughout the day. Food options feature local food trucks and a communal cookout, followed by evening s'mores and entertainment. Overnight guests have the option to conclude the event with an outdoor movie screening under the stars.
This event is perfect for families seeking a relaxed atmosphere to build community bonds and create lasting memories. It offers a unique blend of wellness and fun in an accessible outdoor setting. We are currently finalizing our lineup of performers and vendors, so please follow our official Facebook page for the latest announcements. Join us for a day dedicated to play, movement, and local connection as we bring the community together for this special experience.
235 mi
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Free, please RSVP
Thomas and his Friends at New Hope Valley Railway
at North Carolina Railway Museum & New Hope Valley Railway,
Thomas and his Friends are visiting the New Hope Valley Railway Garden Railroad this September. This special event brings the beloved characters to life through a detailed G-Scale display featuring iconic trains and figures. Families and train enthusiasts are invited to experience this unique exhibition on September 12 and 13.
Visitors can view miniature versions of Thomas, Percy, James, Paxton, Emily, Winston, and Toby as they travel along the tracks. Sir Topham Hatt will be present to greet guests throughout the weekend. In addition to the garden display, attendees can enjoy rides on the full-size trains operating during scheduled times. The event will also feature appearances by miniature Minions.
This experience is perfect for families seeking an interactive and memorable outing. The event schedule includes departures on September 12 at 10:30am, 12:00pm, and 1:30pm, and on September 13 at 10:30am and 12:00pm. Tickets sell out quickly every year due to high demand. Please visit www.TriangleTrain.com to secure your tickets in advance. We look forward to welcoming you to the railway for this exciting celebration.
247.7 mi
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Adults $16.45, Seniors 60+ $15.37, Children 2 to 12 $13.20, Children under 2 ride free
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Sunday Reset Series Pilates in the Park
at The Exchange Raleigh, Midtown Raleigh
The Sunday Reset Series is a weekly outdoor movement class hosted at The Exchange Park. This session invites the community to gather on the grassy lawn outside 1000 Social for a guided session focused on movement, mindfulness, and intentional preparation for the week ahead.
Participants will follow a flow yoga session led by experienced instructors from Current Wellness. The curriculum is designed to help you build physical strength, improve flexibility, and clear your mind. This session is part of a larger six week series meant to foster consistent healthy habits in an outdoor setting.
This event is designed for individuals of all fitness levels looking for an accessible way to start their Sunday with focus. The atmosphere is calm, welcoming, and community oriented. Whether you are a yoga regular or simply looking to enjoy the park, this class offers a structured environment to practice wellness. Please remember to bring your own yoga mat and a bottle of water to stay hydrated during the session. We look forward to seeing you on the lawn to reset and recharge.
230.6 mi
•
Free
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