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Downtown Scary Park: Haunted Hotel 2026
Date and Time
October 24, 2026, Sat., 2-10:30pm
Organizer
Downtown Cary Park
Venue
DCP Great Lawn Pavilion
Location
Cary
Address
327 S. Academy St., Cary, NC 27511
(369.0 mi)
Price
Free
Description
Downtown Scary Park: Haunted Hotel 2026 is a full day of Halloween activities at Downtown Cary Park featuring pumpkin carving and outdoor film screenings. This event offers a blend of family friendly daytime entertainment and spooky evening cinema for all ages to enjoy together in a festive community setting. The schedule begins at 2 p.m. with a pumpkin carving party on the Frantz Square Lawn followed by pre-movie activities at 6 p.m. Attendees can watch The Haunted Mansion at 7:30 p.m. and Poltergeist at 9:30 p.m. at the Great Lawn Pavilion. This event is designed for families and individuals looking for a seasonal outdoor experience. The atmosphere is lighthearted and perfect for those who enjoy holiday traditions in a public park setting. Guests are encouraged to bring their own chairs and blankets for comfortable seating during the movie screenings. You are also welcome to bring your own food and drinks to enjoy throughout the day. Join us for a memorable Halloween celebration at the park.
Discover More Events
Featured Events
The best upcoming events you won’t want to miss
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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
368.9 mi
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$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.
369.6 mi
•
Free
More events from Downtown Cary Park
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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.
369 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.
369 mi
•
Resident - $15, Non Resident - $20, please register. This program is for ages 18 and older.
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Dungeons & Dragons in the Park 2026
at DCP Academy Pavilion, Cary
Dungeons and Dragons in the Park is a tabletop gaming event where participants play through an original adventure storyline. This program brings community members together to engage in collaborative storytelling, puzzle solving, and fantasy combat within an outdoor setting. It is a structured session designed for players to experience a classic roleplaying encounter in a social environment. Attendees will play with pre-generated characters at level 3, which simplifies the start of the adventure for everyone. If you have your own level 3 character or dice, you are welcome to bring them. Both 2014 and 2024 rule sets are fully supported and compatible with the campaign. All necessary materials, including character sheets and gaming supplies, are provided on-site. This event is open to players of all skill levels, from complete beginners to experienced veterans. The environment is supportive and emphasizes inclusive gameplay for everyone who joins. Grab your friends and prepare for an afternoon of imagination and strategic challenge. Please register in advance to secure your spot at the table and prepare to embark on this unique journey.
369 mi
•
Free, please register, 18+ years of age
More Annual Events
Recurring annual events and traditions in Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill.
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2026 N.C. Assistive Technology Expo Pre-Conference
at McKimmon Conference & Training Center, Midtown Raleigh
The 2026 North Carolina Assistive Technology Expo Pre-Conference takes place on September 16, 2026. This gathering serves as an intensive learning opportunity providing professional development and networking before the main conference event begins. Participants will gain access to specialized educational sessions designed to improve accessibility and inclusion in both classroom and workplace settings.
Featured speaker Leslie Fisher brings twenty-nine years of experience to this event. She will lead sessions focused on practical applications of artificial intelligence tools including Gemini and Microsoft Copilot. These sessions highlight how current technology innovations drive real world impact and expand professional accessibility toolboxes. Attendees can expect actionable strategies and training meant to empower individuals in diverse environments.
This event is ideal for educators, workplace accessibility professionals, and technology advocates seeking to deepen their technical skills. The atmosphere is collaborative, focused, and professional. You can register for a single session at fifty dollars or secure a full day pass for seventy-five dollars. Join us to elevate your practice and connect with peers dedicated to inclusive innovation. We look forward to seeing you there.
372.4 mi
•
$50 for each session; $75 for both sessions
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2026 Assistive Technology Expo
at McKimmon Conference & Training Center, West Raleigh
The 2026 Assistive Technology Expo is a hybrid public event hosted by the North Carolina Assistive Technology Program in Raleigh. This annual gathering promotes independence and inclusion for people with disabilities by providing direct access to the latest assistive technology solutions at no cost to participants.
Attendees can explore an exhibition hall featuring nearly 50 vendors showcasing diverse devices, from vision-enhancing software to advanced speech-generation tools. The event includes a dedicated makers room for do-it-yourself projects and four professional education presentations. Participants attending sessions will receive a certificate of attendance to help satisfy professional development requirements for their respective licensure boards.
This event is designed for individuals with disabilities, their families, educators, therapists, and employers. Whether joining in person at the McKimmon Conference and Training Center or participating through the virtual platform, guests will engage with innovators in the field. This expo provides a unique opportunity to test new technologies and connect with experts dedicated to improving accessibility. Register today to secure your spot at this essential community resource for technology and independence.
372.4 mi
•
Free
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Little Gem Anniversary Celebration Week
at Little Gem, Chapel Hill,
Join the team at Little Gem in Chapel Hill as we celebrate an incredible first year of serving the community. Located at 630 Weaver Dairy Road, our cocktail bar is marking this significant milestone with a series of special events running from September 16 through September 19, 2026. This anniversary week serves as a heartfelt thank you to our loyal patrons who have made our first year of operation so memorable and successful. Whether you are a long-time regular or a first-time visitor, this week offers the perfect opportunity to experience the unique atmosphere and high quality craft cocktails that define our establishment. Our staff has curated a special lineup of activities designed to highlight our favorite spirits and showcase our passion for hospitality. We invite you to gather your friends and family for an evening of elevated drinks and shared celebrations. Please visit our website to view the full event schedule and secure your plans for the festivities. We look forward to raising a glass with you to toast to many more successful years ahead in our community.
350.6 mi
•
FREE
More Family Events
Family-friendly events, activities, and programs suitable for all ages.
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Total Tot Time Free Play Program
at W.D. Hill Recreation Center, Durham,
Join the vibrant community at W.D. Hill Recreation Center for Total Tot Time, an engaging and complimentary program designed specifically for children ages newborn to five years old. This recurring event offers an excellent opportunity for little ones to socialize and develop essential skills in a welcoming, active environment. Caregivers and parents are encouraged to participate alongside their children, fostering meaningful connections while exploring a wide variety of fun activities.
The program features an array of play options such as colorful parachutes, stimulating tunnels, gentle bowling, and active games like tag. These activities are carefully selected to promote physical movement and early childhood social development. By participating in these sessions, you provide your child with a safe space to interact with peers while enjoying quality time together in the heart of Durham.
No registration is required to participate in this delightful program, so feel free to drop by whenever your schedule allows throughout the season. We look forward to seeing you and your family on the gym floor for a morning of laughter, exploration, and play.
354.2 mi
•
FREE
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Irrigation, Rainwater Systems & Agriculture
at Good Hope Farm, Cary
This educational outdoor workshop provides a comprehensive overview of modern irrigation and rainwater harvesting systems for your property. Our goal is to equip participants with the technical knowledge necessary to implement efficient water management practices for gardening and agriculture.
Attendees will explore equipment and installation procedures for cisterns, drip tape, soaker hoses, and rain barrels. The curriculum covers specialized topics including solar pump technology, winterization steps, and effective fertigation methods. You will also view real-world examples of green stormwater infrastructure to see these systems in practice. The program includes a dedicated question and answer segment to address specific technical challenges and water conservation techniques applicable to your unique landscape.
This event is designed for gardeners, homeowners, and agricultural enthusiasts interested in sustainable water use. The atmosphere is professional and hands-on, offering a direct look at functional equipment. We provide the practical skills needed to optimize your outdoor space through conservation. Please stay tuned for upcoming registration information to secure your spot at this informative session.
364 mi
•
Free
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Total Tot Time: Free Play Program for Kids
at W.D. Hill Recreation Center, Durham,
Discover a wonderful opportunity for early childhood development and community connection at Total Tot Time. Hosted by Durham Parks and Recreation at the W.D. Hill Recreation Center, this vibrant program invites children ages zero to five along with their parents and caregivers for two hours of active play. Running every Monday and Wednesday morning through December 16, 2026, this initiative provides a dedicated gym space where little ones can explore, learn, and grow through movement.
Our program focuses on fostering essential socialization skills, allowing children to interact with their peers in a safe and supportive environment. Whether your child enjoys playing with a parachute, navigating through colorful tunnels, jumping rope, or engaging in a friendly game of bowling, there is something to spark every imagination. This inclusive environment encourages parents to bond with their children while connecting with other local families. No prior registration is necessary, so feel free to drop in and join the fun whenever your schedule allows. We look forward to seeing you and your little ones in the gym for an energetic morning of play.
354.2 mi
•
FREE
More Festivals
Festivals of all types happening across Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill.
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Wendell's Epic Mighty Con
at Wendell Community Center, Wendell
Wendell's Epic Mighty Con is a community fandom celebration hosted in Eastern Wake. The event gathers fans of comics, pop culture, and gaming for a two-day experience focused on creativity and local connection.
Attendees can participate in a variety of activities including browsing collectibles from specialized vendors and meeting professional creators. Highlights include a dedicated cosplay showcase and interactive gaming sessions. Food trucks will be available on-site throughout the event to accommodate guests. The celebration begins with the Masquerade on Main Street kick-off party on Friday, September 18, 2026, starting at 6pm. The main convention follows on Saturday, September 19, from 10am to 5pm at the Wendell Community Center.
This event is designed for individuals and families who enjoy comics and geek culture. The atmosphere is welcoming and geared toward fans of all ages looking to engage with their community in a creative environment. Whether you are a casual fan or a dedicated collector, this gathering provides a unique space to celebrate shared interests. Plan to join us in Wendell for a memorable weekend of fandom and fun.
383 mi
•
VIP, $25; Adult General Admission, $8; Kids 12 & Under, Free
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Wendell's Epic Mighty Con
at Wendell Community Center, Wendell
Wendell's Epic Mighty Con is a community focused fandom celebration held at the Wendell Community Center. The event brings together comic book fans, collectors, and families for a day dedicated to pop culture and creative expression in eastern Wake County.
Attendees can explore a variety of offerings including comic books, diverse collectibles, and vendor booths. The program features local creators showcasing their work and interactive gaming stations. Food trucks will be on site throughout the Saturday event to provide dining options for guests. The experience begins with the Masquerade on Main Street kick off party on Friday, September 18, 2026, starting at 6pm. The main convention follows on Saturday, September 19, from 10am to 5pm.
This event is designed for all ages and encourages participation from casual fans and dedicated enthusiasts alike. The atmosphere is intended to be welcoming and inclusive, providing a space for the community to engage with various fandoms. Join us for a full day of excitement and creativity. Mark your calendars and prepare to celebrate with fellow enthusiasts in the heart of Wendell.
383 mi
•
VIP, $25; Adult General Admission, $8; Kids 12 & Under, Free
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Fall Wake Forest HerbFest
530 S. White Street, Wake Forest, NC 27587
The Fall Wake Forest HerbFest is an outdoor seasonal community event held in downtown Wake Forest. It celebrates gardening and local culture by bringing together experts and enthusiasts for a weekend of education and entertainment.
Attendees can explore a wide variety of local vendors offering seasonal plants and garden goods. The event schedule features live music performances that provide a backdrop for the day. Participants may also engage in garden demonstrations and mini classes designed to teach practical horticultural skills. These sessions are structured to provide actionable advice for both novice and experienced gardeners looking to improve their outdoor spaces.
This festival is intended for anyone with an interest in gardening, local crafts, or community engagement. The atmosphere is designed to be welcoming and informative, making it an ideal destination for individuals and families seeking to enjoy the autumn season. We encourage everyone to visit the downtown area to discover new plants, learn from knowledgeable instructors, and support local vendors. Join us this weekend to gain gardening inspiration and participate in this seasonal tradition.
368.2 mi
•
Free
More Film & Cinema
Film screenings, movie festivals, outdoor cinema, and film-related events.
Terrific Tuesdays at The Lumina Theater
at The Lumina Theater, Chapel Hill,
Experience the magic of cinema without breaking your budget at The Lumina Theater located in the vibrant Southern Village of Chapel Hill. We believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to enjoy the latest blockbusters on the big screen, which is why we are thrilled to offer our Terrific Tuesdays promotion. Every single Tuesday throughout the entire year, you can secure your movie tickets for the incredibly low price of only 6.25 dollars. When factoring in all taxes and fees, your total comes to a wallet friendly 7.75 dollars per ticket.
Beyond these fantastic savings on admission, we also feature exclusive concession specials specifically curated for our Tuesday guests. Whether you are planning a casual date night, a fun outing with friends, or a relaxing solo trip to the movies, our comfortable theater provides the perfect setting for your midweek entertainment. We invite you to join us this coming Tuesday to catch your favorite films at an unbeatable value. Visit our website today to view our current showtimes and book your seats for an unforgettable movie experience.
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$6.25
The Rocky Horror Picture Show at The Rialto
at The Rialto Theatre, Midtown Raleigh
The Rocky Horror Picture Show is an interactive film screening featuring a live shadow cast performance hosted at The Rialto theatre in Raleigh. This event combines the classic cult film with a synchronized stage production to create a fully immersive cinema experience for the local community.
The performance is brought to life by the Low Down Cheap Little Punks. They provide a high energy shadow cast that acts out scenes alongside the movie screen. Attendees should expect a rowdy and participatory environment where shouting lines and using props is standard practice. The cast brings professional energy to every scene to ensure the story remains engaging for both new fans and seasoned viewers.
This show is perfect for adults looking for a unique nightlife experience or a fun group outing. The atmosphere is bold and inclusive, welcoming anyone who wants to enjoy a classic piece of cult cinema history. Whether you are a regular participant or visiting for the first time, this production offers a memorable evening. Please check local listings for specific showtimes and secure your tickets in advance to ensure entry to this popular tradition.
372.6 mi
•
$11
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Hobbit Fest: Movie Marathon and Middle-earth Celebration
at Moore Square, Raleigh,
Embark on an epic adventure at Hobbit Fest, a day-long celebration dedicated to the legendary world of The Lord of the Rings. Taking place on Saturday, September 19, 2026, at the beautiful Moore Square in downtown Raleigh, this free event invites fans of all ages to immerse themselves in Middle-earth. Guests can enjoy a complete outdoor theatrical trilogy marathon alongside a vibrant festival featuring local artists, unique vendors, and delicious food trucks offering plenty of hobbit-sized meals.
The festivities run from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., with organized activities available from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Whether you are a devoted fan or a curious newcomer, you will find plenty of opportunities to shop, play, and celebrate this iconic fantasy saga. We encourage all attendees to embrace the spirit of the journey by arriving in costume as your favorite elf, dwarf, wizard, or ranger. Gather your fellowship and join us for this unforgettable experience in the heart of Raleigh. We look forward to welcoming you to our community gathering for a day filled with magic and camaraderie.
374.4 mi
•
FREE
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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Total Tot Time Free Play Program
at W.D. Hill Recreation Center, Durham,
Join the vibrant community at W.D. Hill Recreation Center for Total Tot Time, an engaging and complimentary program designed specifically for children ages newborn to five years old. This recurring event offers an excellent opportunity for little ones to socialize and develop essential skills in a welcoming, active environment. Caregivers and parents are encouraged to participate alongside their children, fostering meaningful connections while exploring a wide variety of fun activities.
The program features an array of play options such as colorful parachutes, stimulating tunnels, gentle bowling, and active games like tag. These activities are carefully selected to promote physical movement and early childhood social development. By participating in these sessions, you provide your child with a safe space to interact with peers while enjoying quality time together in the heart of Durham.
No registration is required to participate in this delightful program, so feel free to drop by whenever your schedule allows throughout the season. We look forward to seeing you and your family on the gym floor for a morning of laughter, exploration, and play.
354.2 mi
•
FREE
Nothing Bundt Cakes National Bring the Joy Day Giveaway
at Nothing Bundt Cakes, multiple locations,
Nothing Bundt Cakes is celebrating its inaugural National Bring the Joy Day on September 15, 2026. To mark this special occasion, all 841 bakery locations across the nation are offering a complimentary Confetti Bundtlet to the first 300 guests who arrive in person. This delightful treat captures the essence of a classic birthday cake with vibrant sprinkles, providing a perfect way to brighten your morning. This exciting promotion requires no purchase to participate, making it an accessible opportunity for community members to enjoy a high quality dessert at no cost.
Participation is strictly limited to the first 300 individuals per location while supplies last, so arriving early is highly recommended. Please note that this offer is exclusively available for in person claims and cannot be redeemed through online orders or telephone requests. As store opening times may vary, we encourage you to verify the specific hours for your nearest Triangle location to ensure you do not miss out on this sweet celebration. Join us to experience the joy and share in the fun of this nationwide event.
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FREE
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Computer Refresher for Mature Adults
at W.D. Hill Recreation Center, Durham,
Are you looking to enhance your digital skills in a supportive and friendly environment? Durham Parks and Recreation is excited to invite adults ages 50 and older to participate in our upcoming Computer Refresher course. This program is specifically designed to help mature learners navigate the modern digital landscape with confidence, covering essential topics that make using your computer, tablet, or smartphone easier and more efficient than ever before.
Whether you need help with basic navigation, staying connected with family, or simply feeling more comfortable with technology, our dedicated instructors are here to guide you every step of the way. These informative sessions will be held at the W.D. Recreation Center located at 1308 Fayetteville Street. We are offering two separate series of classes, running from September 8 to 29 and again from October 6 to 27, 2026.
Please note that space for this popular course is limited to ensure a quality learning experience for everyone. Registration is required to secure your spot in these free sessions. Do not miss this fantastic opportunity to expand your knowledge and connect with peers.
354.2 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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Irrigation, Rainwater Systems & Agriculture
at Good Hope Farm, Cary
This educational outdoor workshop provides a comprehensive overview of modern irrigation and rainwater harvesting systems for your property. Our goal is to equip participants with the technical knowledge necessary to implement efficient water management practices for gardening and agriculture.
Attendees will explore equipment and installation procedures for cisterns, drip tape, soaker hoses, and rain barrels. The curriculum covers specialized topics including solar pump technology, winterization steps, and effective fertigation methods. You will also view real-world examples of green stormwater infrastructure to see these systems in practice. The program includes a dedicated question and answer segment to address specific technical challenges and water conservation techniques applicable to your unique landscape.
This event is designed for gardeners, homeowners, and agricultural enthusiasts interested in sustainable water use. The atmosphere is professional and hands-on, offering a direct look at functional equipment. We provide the practical skills needed to optimize your outdoor space through conservation. Please stay tuned for upcoming registration information to secure your spot at this informative session.
364 mi
•
Free
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Irrigation, Rainwater Systems & Agriculture
at Good Hope Farm, Cary
This educational outdoor workshop provides a comprehensive overview of modern irrigation and rainwater harvesting systems for your property. Our goal is to equip participants with the technical knowledge necessary to implement efficient water management practices for gardening and agriculture.
Attendees will explore equipment and installation procedures for cisterns, drip tape, soaker hoses, and rain barrels. The curriculum covers specialized topics including solar pump technology, winterization steps, and effective fertigation methods. You will also view real-world examples of green stormwater infrastructure to see these systems in practice. The program includes a dedicated question and answer segment to address specific technical challenges and water conservation techniques applicable to your unique landscape.
This event is designed for gardeners, homeowners, and agricultural enthusiasts interested in sustainable water use. The atmosphere is professional and hands-on, offering a direct look at functional equipment. We provide the practical skills needed to optimize your outdoor space through conservation. Please stay tuned for upcoming registration information to secure your spot at this informative session.
364 mi
•
Free
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Artful Story Time: Under Construction
at North Carolina Museum of Art, West Raleigh
Artful Story Time is an interactive program that combines children literature with visual art appreciation. This recurring event invites families to explore the museum collection through active storytelling, listening, and movement, providing a unique educational experience for young visitors and their caregivers. This month features a construction theme. Participants will examine the new Please Be Seated sculpture in the park and observe the onsite construction activities. The session includes a special guest appearance by a construction team member who will explain how various tools, trucks, and heavy machinery work. Attendees will gain a behind the scenes look at the museum grounds while engaging with themes of building and design. This event is designed for children who enjoy active learning and hands on exploration. The atmosphere is energetic and encourages curiosity about both art and the world of construction. We recommend wearing comfortable clothing as we will move between gallery spaces and outdoor viewing areas. Space is limited, so please register in advance to secure your spot for this unique educational session.
370.3 mi
•
Free
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