Centennial SoundBites

Experience the thrill of elite collegiate competition at the ACC Women's Rowing Championships, hosted at the scenic Lake Wheeler Park in Raleigh, North Carolina. This exciting two-day event takes place on May 15 and 16, 2026, bringing together nine prestigious Atlantic Coast Conference teams for a display of strength, endurance, and teamwork on the water. Races begin promptly at 8 a.m. each morning, culminating in an inspiring award ceremony on Saturday at 10:30 a.m. to celebrate the athletes' dedication. Spectators are welcome to attend this high-energy athletic showcase free of charge. It is an excellent opportunity for the local community and visitors alike to support collegiate athletes from UNC-Chapel Hill, Duke University, and other top-tier programs. Whether you are an avid rowing fan or looking for an engaging outdoor activity for the family, this championship promises a memorable experience. We invite you to join us at Lake Wheeler Park to cheer on these talented competitors as they vie for the conference title. Please visit our official website to view the full race schedule and plan your visit today.

Experience the thrill of high-stakes collegiate competition at the ACC Women's Rowing Championships, held at the picturesque Lake Wheeler Park in Raleigh, North Carolina. On May 15 and 16, 2026, nine elite Atlantic Coast Conference teams will gather to showcase their strength, precision, and endurance on the water. This prestigious event represents the pinnacle of collegiate rowing, offering fans a unique opportunity to witness top-tier athletes from renowned institutions like UNC-Chapel Hill and Duke University as they compete for the championship title. Admission to this exciting event is free for all spectators, making it a perfect outing for families, sports enthusiasts, and community members alike. Daily racing action kicks off at 8 a.m., culminating in a celebratory awards ceremony on Saturday morning at 10:30 a.m. Whether you are a dedicated rowing fan or simply looking for an inspiring way to spend your weekend in the outdoors, this tournament promises an unforgettable experience. Join us at the water to support these incredible athletes as they push their limits and vie for victory. For more details, visit our website today.

Artist Notes is an intimate performance series that offers a deep look into the creative process of acclaimed musicians. Hosted on Friday evenings, this event invites audience members to enjoy live music while learning about the stories and inspirations behind the songs directly from the artists themselves. This session features Dave Wilson and John Teer of Chatham County Line. Known for their unique blend of bluegrass, folk, country, and rock, the duo will discuss the pivotal moments of their careers and the craft of songwriting. Attendees gain unique insights that go beyond a standard concert experience, providing a rare opportunity to connect with the performers in a meaningful setting. This event is perfect for music lovers who appreciate storytelling and acoustic performances. The atmosphere is relaxed and community-focused, making it an excellent choice for a Friday outing. Admission is free and local food trucks will be on site. Attendees are welcome to bring camp chairs, coolers with beer or wine, and leashed dogs. Join us for this engaging look into the art of music.

Experience the grand finale of the Sweetwater Town Center Spring Concert Series on Friday, May 15, 2026. This highly anticipated event features an evening of incredible live music performed on the picturesque Market Square Lawn in Apex, North Carolina. The concert kicks off at 5 p.m. and continues until 8 p.m., showcasing the talented Jamey Meeter followed by headliner Julia Golden. Julia Golden, a celebrated artist known for her appearance on The Voice and her status as a three time Best of the Pines champion, promises an unforgettable performance for music enthusiasts of all ages. We invite the local community to gather for this vibrant celebration of local talent and outdoor entertainment. Please bring your lawn chairs and blankets to ensure a comfortable viewing experience as you enjoy the spring weather. While outside coolers are not permitted at this venue, attendees can enjoy the welcoming atmosphere of the town center. Do not miss your chance to be part of this wonderful musical experience. Mark your calendars, gather your friends, and join us for an evening of melody under the stars.

Get ready for an unforgettable musical experience at the Carolina Indie Fest, taking place on May 15 and 16, 2026, at Hugger Mugger Brewing in downtown Sanford, North Carolina. This exciting two-day outdoor festival showcases ten diverse performances that highlight the best of the local indie scene. Whether you are a dedicated music lover or just looking for a lively weekend activity, this event offers the perfect atmosphere to relax and enjoy high-quality live entertainment under the open sky. Beyond the incredible lineup of artists, attendees can explore a variety of local arts and crafts vendors or grab a delicious bite from onsite food trucks. This family-friendly gathering welcomes children and pets, making it an ideal destination for a community outing. Please remember to bring your lawn chairs for maximum comfort while you enjoy the performances. The festival runs from 5 to 10 p.m. on Friday and 2 to 9 p.m. on Saturday. Head over to the official Carolina Indie Fest Facebook page for the latest updates and mark your calendars for this exceptional free event.

Experience an unforgettable evening of rhythm and community at the Sunrise Community Farm Center in Chapel Hill. On Friday, May 15, 2026, we invite you to join us for an energetic Barn Dance featuring the soulful sounds of The Fuzzy Catfish Blues Band. This event celebrates the vibrant spirit of our local farm, offering a perfect opportunity to enjoy live music and dancing under the stars in a welcoming, inclusive environment suitable for all ages and backgrounds. We believe that culture and connection should be accessible to everyone in our community. In this spirit, we are adopting a pay what you can ticket model for this event. Your contributions directly support our talented local musicians while ensuring that high-quality entertainment remains available to all neighbors regardless of budget. This is a fantastic way to spend a Friday night while giving back to the arts scene. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and the festivities continue until 9 p.m. We encourage you to bring your dancing shoes and join us at 6407 Millhouse Road for this heartwarming celebration. Please visit our website for further details and to plan your visit to our community farm center.

The Fine Arts League of Cary proudly presents the 16th Annual Wake County Teen Art Exhibition, a vibrant celebration of creativity showcasing over 100 works by talented student artists from across Wake County. On view May 6–27, 2026, at the Frankie G. Weems Gallery on the campus of Meredith College, this professionally curated exhibition highlights the exceptional achievements of young artists selected by their teachers. Join the community for a special public reception and awards ceremony on May 10, 2026, from 2:00–4:00 p.m., where $20,000 in prizes will be awarded to students and their schools. Sponsored by Cary Family Dental and supported by local arts organizations and Meredith College, the exhibition not only honors artistic excellence but also reinvests in school art programs, helping foster the next generation of creative thinkers. Now in its 16th year, this inspiring event underscores the importance of arts education while offering students a meaningful opportunity to exhibit their work in a gallery setting. All are welcome to attend and experience the creativity, imagination, and talent of Wake County’s young artists.

Experience the magic of literature and the beauty of the outdoors this May with the Wake County Parks StoryWalks initiative. This unique program combines physical activity with early literacy, allowing families to enjoy a children book page by page as they navigate scenic nature trails. It is an excellent way to encourage a love for reading while exploring the diverse landscapes of our local park system. Throughout the month, various parks will feature rotating story selections, offering fresh adventures for recurring visitors. Whether you are strolling through the walkways of Oak View or wandering the natural paths of Harris Lake, these curated experiences provide a refreshing escape for readers of all ages. We invite you and your family to visit these sites throughout May to engage with these wonderful tales in an immersive environment. Please check the official park schedules to plan your visit and ensure you have plenty of time to enjoy the trails until sunset. Grab your walking shoes and prepare for a delightful journey where every step leads to a new page of discovery. We look forward to seeing you out on the trail soon.

Experience the botanical wonder of Juniper Level Botanic Garden and Plant Delights Nursery during their exclusive seasonal open house events. Spanning twenty eight acres in Raleigh, North Carolina, this world renowned destination showcases over thirty thousand unique plant varieties, including rare perennials, exotic specimens, and unusual trees collected from global expeditions. Whether you are a dedicated horticulturalist or a passionate home gardener, you will find endless inspiration wandering through these meticulously maintained display gardens and research spaces. These open weekend events provide a rare opportunity for the public to explore the grounds without prior reservations. Discover new favorites for your own landscape while shopping for unique additions in the onsite sales greenhouses. The nursery is committed to educational excellence and botanical diversity, making this an essential destination for nature enthusiasts of all backgrounds. Join us for a weekend of discovery and community in a truly remarkable setting. Admission and parking are entirely free, and the event proceeds rain or shine. Visit our website today to plan your trip and browse our extensive online catalogue for your next planting project.