Children's Parade 2026

Bridge Fellowship Church is hosting a FREE Vacation Bible School for kids this summer in Southeast Raleigh! Dates: June 22–26, 2026 Times: 6:00–8:00 PM each evening Location: 3060 Hammond Business Place, Suite 121, Raleigh, NC 27610 Cost: Completely FREE and open to all families in the community Ages: Kindergarten through 6th Grade Five nights of Bible stories, worship, crafts, games, and fun built around one big idea — God is bigger than your kids can imagine, and He sees and loves every one of them. Register free (takes 2 minutes): https://bridgefellowshipraleigh.churchcenter.com/calendar/event/223010145 Questions? Call 919-679-1222 or visit bridgefellowshipchurch.com

This event serves as the public opening for our newest exhibition titled Patterns of Belonging: English Learners Reflections on America 250. We invite the community to explore how English learners interpret their experiences and identity within the context of the national semiquincentennial celebration. The evening offers a firsthand look at collaborative works that capture unique perspectives on the American experience. Attendees will engage with a collaborative community mural that highlights shared expressions of pride and identity. Visitors can read through personal reflection journals to gain insight into the diverse voices of our local English learners. You may also participate in our interactive Wish Wall by contributing your own hopes for the future of the United States. The opening night includes refreshments and crafts to enhance your visit. This exhibition is open to all community members interested in learning about immigrant experiences and contemporary narratives. The atmosphere is intended to be welcoming and thought provoking for all age groups. Join us this First Friday to support these artists and add your voice to this ongoing national conversation.

The Patterns of Belonging exhibit celebration is a community event honoring the perspectives of English learners as they reflect on the 250th anniversary of the United States. This gathering serves as an educational and cultural showcase highlighting the diverse voices and identities that shape our nation today. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with the exhibition and appreciate the collaborative efforts of local participants. Highlights of the afternoon include a live musical performance by the Raleigh Music Collective along with various crafts and refreshments for all guests. Visitors can explore personal reflection journals, contribute to a community mural, and share their own hopes for the future of the country at our interactive Wish Wall. This event is family friendly and designed to be an accessible experience for community members of all ages. The atmosphere is welcoming and encourages open dialogue through shared creative expression. We invite you to join us for this meaningful afternoon of connection and celebration. Please plan to visit the exhibit and help us celebrate the stories that define our collective identity.

Patriotic Pops is an outdoor concert series event at Summerfest honoring the spirit and resilience of America 250. This musical celebration commemorates the history and heritage of the nation through a live symphonic performance. The event features the North Carolina Symphony led by conductor Sophie Mok with guest vocalist Taylor Troyer. Attendees will experience an evening of orchestral music performed under the stars. The program highlights themes of heroism and hope designed to inspire the audience during this milestone anniversary celebration. This event is open to the public and serves as an ideal outing for music lovers and families. Children aged twelve and under receive free admission to the lawn area. Guests are encouraged to bring their own picnic dinners and flameless candles to enhance the evening atmosphere. Secure your space on the lawn to enjoy this community performance. Whether you are a classical music enthusiast or looking for a memorable night out, this concert offers a unique way to participate in the America 250 festivities. Pack your picnic blankets and prepare for an evening of entertainment.

Experience the vibrant spirit of Carrboro at the Sunday Brunch Music series hosted at the beautiful Weaver Street Market. This community-focused event invites you to enjoy live outdoor performances in a relaxed and inviting setting. Whether you are looking for a peaceful morning or an energetic start to your day, these concerts provide the perfect soundtrack to your weekend brunch. It is a fantastic opportunity to gather with friends and family while enjoying local culture in the heart of the Triangle. Taking place every Sunday, these performances feature a variety of talented musicians who bring the community together. This event series is entirely free, making it an accessible and enjoyable outing for everyone in the area. The combination of fresh food from the market and wonderful live music creates a truly memorable atmosphere that captures the essence of Carrboro life. We invite you to grab a seat on the lawn, relax, and soak in the music. Visit our website today to learn more about upcoming performers and schedule your next visit to this exceptional local tradition.

Get ready for the ultimate gear exchange at the Spring Bicycle Swap hosted at The Common Market in Durham. On Sunday, May 31, 2026, from 12 to 5 p.m., cycling enthusiasts from across the region are invited to gather for an energetic afternoon dedicated to all things bike related. Whether you are looking to upgrade your current ride, hunt for elusive vintage parts, or simply clear out your garage, this event offers the perfect platform to buy, sell, trade, or donate used bicycles and accessories. This community-driven initiative celebrates the local cycling culture by providing a collaborative space for riders of all skill levels to connect and share resources. It is an ideal opportunity to find affordable gear or pass along equipment to someone who will appreciate it. Make sure to bring your items ready for trade and prepare for a vibrant day of networking with fellow enthusiasts in the heart of Durham. Join us at 1821 Green Street to participate in this fantastic local tradition. We look forward to seeing the community come together to support sustainable cycling and active living.

Experience the artistry of master potter Mark Hewitt during his highly anticipated Summer Kiln Opening in Pittsboro, North Carolina. This unique event invites visitors to explore a working pottery studio and witness the impressive scale of massive wood kilns. Guests can tour the showroom barn and browse an extensive collection of handmade ceramics, ranging from functional mugs and bowls to elegant vases and life-sized decorative vessels. Each piece is a testament to traditional craftsmanship, marked with a specific firing number to commemorate this latest collection. Beyond the opportunity to shop for one-of-a-kind pottery, the event offers a wonderful day in the countryside. The inviting atmosphere is perfect for families, with children encouraged to attend and enjoy the outdoor swings on-site. Whether you are an avid collector or simply interested in the creative process, this open studio weekend provides an excellent glimpse into the life and work of a renowned local artisan. We invite you to join us for this celebration of clay and community. Plan your visit today to see these exquisite creations before they are gone.

The Great Cary Garden Tour 2026 is a community event showcasing 13 curated gardens across the region. Organized by the Cary Woman's Club and Mom's Valentine for You, this tour supports two local nonprofit organizations while celebrating horticulture. Attendees will enjoy exclusive access to private landscapes filled with seasonal blooms and professional garden designs. The tour spans two days, providing a flexible schedule to explore all locations. On Saturday, guests may purchase lunch on-site to enjoy during their visit. Sunday hours are specifically limited to 1 pm until 5 pm to accommodate weekend schedules. This event is perfect for gardening enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone seeking inspiration for their own outdoor spaces. It offers a calm yet engaging atmosphere ideal for connecting with community members. Tickets grant entry for both days of the event, ensuring you have ample time to appreciate every location at your own pace. We invite you to join us for this unique opportunity to experience the beauty of local gardening. Purchase your tickets early to secure your spot for this rewarding community experience.

Shakespeare in the Parks presents a live performance of As You Like It at the Knightdale Station Park amphitheater. This event offers an abridged version of the classic play designed to provide an accessible and engaging theatrical experience outdoors. Attendees will watch the story of Rosalind as she travels through the Forest of Arden. The performance features Shakespearean poetry, witty dialogue, and themes of mistaken identity and romance. This production focuses on the power of self discovery and the beauty of the natural world. It brings professional acting to a public park setting for an evening of arts and culture. This performance is suitable for audiences of all ages who enjoy classic literature or outdoor entertainment. The open air atmosphere makes it a great choice for families, theater enthusiasts, and community members looking for a relaxed evening activity. Please bring your own seating or blankets to ensure a comfortable viewing experience on the amphitheater lawn. Join us for this celebration of storytelling under the stars and experience one of the most beloved comedies in the Shakespearean canon.

Join us at Guildhall Games located within the innovative Boxyard RTP for an exciting afternoon of tabletop gaming. This unique destination, constructed from upcycled shipping containers, provides a vibrant and creative atmosphere perfect for gathering with friends or meeting fellow enthusiasts. Whether you are a casual player or a seasoned tabletop veteran, our Sunday sessions offer the ideal setting to dive into your favorite board games and discover new classics in a welcoming community space. Beyond the gaming tables, Boxyard RTP features a fantastic array of local food and beverage vendors, allowing you to enjoy delicious refreshments while you play. Our Sunday events run from 1 to 5 p.m., making it the perfect way to wrap up your weekend before the start of the work week. We invite you to experience the energy of this cargotecture development and become a part of our growing local gaming community. Please visit our official website at boxyard.org to confirm event details and view the full community calendar. We look forward to seeing you there for an afternoon of strategic fun and great company.

Shakespeare in the Parks presents a live performance of As You Like It at the Knightdale Station Park amphitheater. This event offers an abridged version of the classic play designed to provide an accessible and engaging theatrical experience outdoors. Attendees will watch the story of Rosalind as she travels through the Forest of Arden. The performance features Shakespearean poetry, witty dialogue, and themes of mistaken identity and romance. This production focuses on the power of self discovery and the beauty of the natural world. It brings professional acting to a public park setting for an evening of arts and culture. This performance is suitable for audiences of all ages who enjoy classic literature or outdoor entertainment. The open air atmosphere makes it a great choice for families, theater enthusiasts, and community members looking for a relaxed evening activity. Please bring your own seating or blankets to ensure a comfortable viewing experience on the amphitheater lawn. Join us for this celebration of storytelling under the stars and experience one of the most beloved comedies in the Shakespearean canon.

Experience the vibrant spirit of the community at the Sunday Brunch Music series hosted at the Weaver Street Market in Carrboro. This recurring event invites residents and visitors alike to enjoy a curated selection of live outdoor music while soaking in the pleasant atmosphere of this beloved local grocery hub. It is the perfect way to spend a relaxing Sunday morning, combining local culture with talented performances in an inviting, open-air setting that embodies the heart of the Triangle area. This concert series is entirely free to attend, making it an accessible and enjoyable outing for individuals, friends, and families looking for a weekend highlight. Guests are encouraged to gather on the lawn to listen to fantastic musicians while enjoying the market offerings. Whether you are a dedicated music lover or simply seeking a welcoming environment to start your day, this event offers a wonderful connection to the local arts scene. Join us each Sunday to celebrate community spirit and support live music. We look forward to welcoming you to the Carrboro location for these exceptional morning performances.

Join the dedicated team at Quail Ridge Books every Saturday, Sunday, and Monday morning for an enchanting literary experience. Our Under the Tree Storytime invites children and families to gather around as our passionate booksellers share a curated selection of their favorite picture books. This program is designed to spark imagination by exploring faraway lands, cozy hideaways, and exciting adventures that span across time and space. Whether diving into timeless classics or discovering new contemporary tales, each session offers a wonderful opportunity to foster a lifelong love of reading in a warm and welcoming environment. Each session lasts approximately thirty minutes and provides a perfect start to your weekend or week. These gatherings are thoughtfully crafted to be engaging and fun for readers of all ages. To ensure a comfortable experience for everyone, we kindly ask that parents or guardians remain with their children throughout the reading. Please remember to park all strollers outside the store entrance to maintain ample seating space for our attendees. We look forward to seeing you there for your next great literary journey.

Join the community for the official kick-off of North Carolina's 2026 Juneteenth observance at the Durham County Courthouse on Monday, June 1st. This landmark event honors the historical significance of Juneteenth through a morning of powerful presentations and unity. Attendees will experience a formal flag-raising ceremony conducted by the Buffalo Soldiers reenactors and hear insightful remarks from esteemed community leaders including Dr. Mike Lee and Commissioner Stephen J. Valentine. The ceremony serves as a commemorative tribute, featuring the display of essential historic freedom documents and the participation of the Durham County Sheriff's Honor Guard. ABC11's Joel Brown will host the proceedings, ensuring an engaging and professional atmosphere for all guests who wish to reflect on our collective history and celebrate progress. We warmly invite all members of the public to witness this inspiring commencement as we prepare for a month of statewide reflection and celebration. Please make plans to arrive by 11:30 a.m. to secure your place. For more information on this event and to discover other Juneteenth celebrations taking place throughout the Triangle region, visit our website today and join our mailing list for the latest updates.

The Queer Professional Happy Hour at Bitter Social is an inclusive networking event designed for LGBTQ+ professionals, creatives, and entrepreneurs. This gathering provides a dedicated space for community members to build meaningful personal and professional relationships in a relaxed, social setting. Participants can enjoy an evening focused on authentic connection rather than formal networking. You will have the opportunity to meet potential collaborators, clients, and peers within the local business community. Drinks and food will be available for purchase from Centro, featuring exclusive happy hour specials. Beyond the social benefits, the event supports a larger cause. Bitter Social will donate twenty percent of all drink sales directly to the LGBT Center of Raleigh. This is an ideal environment for those looking to expand their professional circle or simply enjoy a night out with like-minded individuals. The event is strictly for guests aged twenty-one and older, and there is no cover charge for entry. We look forward to seeing you upstairs at Bitter Social for an evening of community, conversation, and collective support.

RELOADED is a Pride celebration hosted by Alt Shift Collective that centers and honors Black queer identity. The event takes place at Bitter Social to facilitate a night of community, music, and joy. Attendees can look forward to a high energy atmosphere featuring sets by DJ Gemynii, DJ Desipher, and DJ SandyJ. The music and programming are curated to provide a safe and vibrant environment for dancing and connection throughout the evening. This event specifically prioritizes Black queer folks, though it remains open to anyone who enters with a commitment to respecting the people, the culture, and the purpose of the space. Whether you attend with a group or arrive solo, you will find a welcoming atmosphere dedicated to celebrating Pride. Tickets are required for entry and can be purchased through the official Alt Shift Collective website. Please ensure you secure your spot in advance to join this celebration of identity and community.

The Great Cary Garden Tour 2026 is a community event showcasing 13 curated gardens across the region. Organized by the Cary Woman's Club and Mom's Valentine for You, this tour supports two local nonprofit organizations while celebrating horticulture. Attendees will enjoy exclusive access to private landscapes filled with seasonal blooms and professional garden designs. The tour spans two days, providing a flexible schedule to explore all locations. On Saturday, guests may purchase lunch on-site to enjoy during their visit. Sunday hours are specifically limited to 1 pm until 5 pm to accommodate weekend schedules. This event is perfect for gardening enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone seeking inspiration for their own outdoor spaces. It offers a calm yet engaging atmosphere ideal for connecting with community members. Tickets grant entry for both days of the event, ensuring you have ample time to appreciate every location at your own pace. We invite you to join us for this unique opportunity to experience the beauty of local gardening. Purchase your tickets early to secure your spot for this rewarding community experience.

The Great Cary Garden Tour 2026 is a community event showcasing 13 curated gardens across the region. Organized by the Cary Woman's Club and Mom's Valentine for You, this tour supports two local nonprofit organizations while celebrating horticulture. Attendees will enjoy exclusive access to private landscapes filled with seasonal blooms and professional garden designs. The tour spans two days, providing a flexible schedule to explore all locations. On Saturday, guests may purchase lunch on-site to enjoy during their visit. Sunday hours are specifically limited to 1 pm until 5 pm to accommodate weekend schedules. This event is perfect for gardening enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone seeking inspiration for their own outdoor spaces. It offers a calm yet engaging atmosphere ideal for connecting with community members. Tickets grant entry for both days of the event, ensuring you have ample time to appreciate every location at your own pace. We invite you to join us for this unique opportunity to experience the beauty of local gardening. Purchase your tickets early to secure your spot for this rewarding community experience.

Shakespeare in the Parks presents a live performance of As You Like It at the Knightdale Station Park amphitheater. This event offers an abridged version of the classic play designed to provide an accessible and engaging theatrical experience outdoors. Attendees will watch the story of Rosalind as she travels through the Forest of Arden. The performance features Shakespearean poetry, witty dialogue, and themes of mistaken identity and romance. This production focuses on the power of self discovery and the beauty of the natural world. It brings professional acting to a public park setting for an evening of arts and culture. This performance is suitable for audiences of all ages who enjoy classic literature or outdoor entertainment. The open air atmosphere makes it a great choice for families, theater enthusiasts, and community members looking for a relaxed evening activity. Please bring your own seating or blankets to ensure a comfortable viewing experience on the amphitheater lawn. Join us for this celebration of storytelling under the stars and experience one of the most beloved comedies in the Shakespearean canon.