First Friday Cemetery Tours

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!

The Amplify Health 6th Annual End of Summer Bash is a community celebration held in honor of National Health Center Week. This public event serves as a festive gathering to mark the end of the season while supporting local health outreach efforts. Attendees can look forward to a full day of entertainment designed for guests of all ages. The lineup features live performances from Cirque de Vol, Magic by David, Apex Skip-Its, and the Alternative Dance Group. Guests will also have access to various food options, interactive inflatables, and raffle prizes throughout the day. This event is open to the entire community and offers a welcoming, family-oriented atmosphere suitable for residents of all backgrounds. It is an excellent opportunity to connect with neighbors while enjoying high-quality local talent and activities. To ensure you receive the latest event updates and participate in the activities, please complete the required RSVP form found below. We look forward to welcoming you and your family for this memorable day of community connection and celebration.

Prepare for an exhilarating display of creativity and engineering at the annual Smithfield River Rat Regatta on the Neuse. This unique event invites participants to test their boat-making skills by constructing vessels using only cardboard, duct tape, and glue. Whether you are a master builder or a first-time competitor, this race promises a day of high-energy fun on the water. The competition officially kicks off at the Town Commons Boat Ramp and journeys toward the Highway 70 Bridge, offering a fantastic spectacle for all spectators. Space is limited, so we encourage all aspiring captains to secure their spot early. Visit the Smithfield Parks and Recreation Department to complete your pre-registration and review the official rulebook to ensure your craft is ready for the river. In the event of inclement weather, the race will be relocated to the Smithfield Recreation and Aquatic Center to keep the excitement going. Bring your friends and family for an unforgettable day in Smithfield. Do not miss your chance to be part of this adventurous community tradition and prove your design is built to last.

The Triangle Native American Film Festival is a showcase of cinema created by Native actors and directors. Hosted by the Triangle Native American Society for its second year, this event celebrates authentic storytelling and indigenous perspectives through film. Attendees can expect a diverse selection of programming throughout the day. The schedule includes fun animated shorts, compelling documentaries presented by PBS, and full length feature films ranging from romantic dramas to thrillers. The day begins at 11am with the screening of Pow and continues with A Sacred Thread, Borders, Seeds, and Sweet Summer Pow Wow, with additional slots scheduled for the afternoon. This festival is open to all members of the public who wish to experience rich cultural narratives on screen. The atmosphere is welcoming and inclusive, providing a unique opportunity to engage with contemporary indigenous film in a community setting. Whether you are a film enthusiast or simply interested in discovering new stories, this event offers a valuable window into the artistic achievements of Native creators. Please join us for this day of screening and cultural exchange.

First Responders Day at New Hope Valley Railway invites the community to honor local emergency services on Saturday August 8. This event brings together the Town of Apex Fire Department, Apex Police Department, and Wake County EMS to foster connection and appreciation for those who keep the community safe. Attendees can participate in a hands-on touch a truck experience featuring emergency vehicles. Guests are encouraged to climb inside the trucks and interact directly with the first responders. You will hear personal stories, learn practical safety tips, and explore the specialized equipment used by these professionals. Scenic train rides are also scheduled for departure at 10:30am and 12:00pm, providing a relaxing way to enjoy the railway grounds during the event. This family friendly day is designed for residents of all ages who want to engage with local heroes in a fun environment. The atmosphere is educational and welcoming, making it an excellent opportunity to learn about public safety firsthand. Tickets are available for purchase through the official TriangleTrain website. Ensure you secure your spots early for this engaging community experience.

Discover the profound stories and vibrant history of Raleigh with an engaging Black History Walking Tour. Every Saturday from July 11 through September 12, 2026, guests are invited to journey through the historical landscape of the downtown area. Departing promptly at 10 a.m. from the iconic Dr. M. T. Pope House Museum, this guided experience offers a unique perspective on the city heritage. Participants will explore significant landmarks including the Third Ward neighborhood and the historic Black Wall Street, while also visiting local churches that have served as pillars of the community for generations. The tour spans approximately 1.4 miles, designed to be both informative and accessible with designated rest stops provided along the route. Tickets are priced at 10 dollars for adults and 6 dollars for children ages 6 to 17, offering an affordable way to connect with the deep roots of the region. Advance registration is required to secure your spot for this educational excursion. Do not miss this opportunity to honor and learn about the legacies that shaped Raleigh. Visit the official website today to purchase your tickets and prepare for an unforgettable morning of exploration.

Experience a journey into the past at the Historic Yates Mill County Park. As the last operable water-powered gristmill in Wake County, this site offers a rare glimpse into 200 years of agricultural history. Visitors are invited to step inside the mill to witness the intricate inner workings of the historic machinery while learning about the essential role these mills played in shaping early local communities. Our knowledgeable historic interpreters will be on-site to share fascinating stories and answer any questions you may have about the mill operations. Beyond the historic structure, the park provides an expansive 174-acre wildlife refuge for all to enjoy. Whether you choose to walk the scenic trails, explore the beautiful gardens, or simply relax in the picnic area, there is something for everyone. This drop-in event is completely free and perfect for a family outing or a peaceful solo retreat into nature. Please note that space inside the mill is limited to twenty guests at a time. Plan your visit today and discover the rich heritage of this remarkable landmark.

Discover the profound stories and vibrant history of Raleigh with an engaging Black History Walking Tour. Every Saturday from July 11 through September 12, 2026, guests are invited to journey through the historical landscape of the downtown area. Departing promptly at 10 a.m. from the iconic Dr. M. T. Pope House Museum, this guided experience offers a unique perspective on the city heritage. Participants will explore significant landmarks including the Third Ward neighborhood and the historic Black Wall Street, while also visiting local churches that have served as pillars of the community for generations. The tour spans approximately 1.4 miles, designed to be both informative and accessible with designated rest stops provided along the route. Tickets are priced at 10 dollars for adults and 6 dollars for children ages 6 to 17, offering an affordable way to connect with the deep roots of the region. Advance registration is required to secure your spot for this educational excursion. Do not miss this opportunity to honor and learn about the legacies that shaped Raleigh. Visit the official website today to purchase your tickets and prepare for an unforgettable morning of exploration.

The Raleigh Indie Bookstore Crawl is a day long excursion featuring a party bus tour of local independent bookstores throughout the Wake Forest and Raleigh area. This event connects book lovers with local romance author Katie Karambelas while exploring regional literary landmarks. Participants will travel by bus to various locations including Page 158 Books, Dog Eared Books, Blackbird Books and Coffee, and Quail Ridge Books. The ticket price covers transportation, a boxed lunch, a welcome mimosa, and snacks. Attendees also receive a curated swag bag containing a signed book by Katie Karambelas and a blind date with a used book. The day begins and ends at hOMe Yoga Studio and The Winebrary in Rolesville. This crawl is ideal for readers looking to discover new shops, build community, and enjoy a curated literary itinerary. The atmosphere is social and relaxed, making it a perfect outing for book enthusiasts. Space is limited to 25 attendees, so early registration is recommended to secure your seat. Please be prepared to sign a transportation waiver upon arrival to participate in this unique bookish experience.

Discover the rich past of North Carolina capital with a captivating journey aboard the Historic Raleigh Trolley. This immersive one-hour tour whisks you through the heart of downtown, offering a front-row seat to iconic landmarks and historic sites that have shaped our community since 1792. Whether you are a long-time local or a first-time visitor, you will gain fascinating insights into the culture and evolution of this vibrant city. Tours depart from the charming Mordecai Historic Park at 1 Mimosa Street, running every Saturday from March through December. With four convenient start times available at 11 a.m., 12 p.m., 1 p.m., and 2 p.m., it is easy to find a slot that fits your busy weekend schedule. Tickets are affordably priced at 10 dollars for adults and 6 dollars for youth, making this an ideal outing for the whole family. Do not miss your chance to explore Raleigh historic treasures in comfort and style. Secure your seats today by visiting the Mordecai Historic Park Visitor Center or calling 919-996-4364 to book your experience. We look forward to welcoming you aboard for an unforgettable adventure through time.