First Friday Gallery Walk in Raleigh

Join the community at The Plant in Pittsboro on Sunday, May 3, 2026, for the delightful Strawberry Social. This vibrant festival celebrates the arrival of spring by highlighting everything related to fresh, locally grown strawberries. From noon until 6 p.m., guests can explore a variety of local vendors, enjoy seasonal strawberry treats, and sample refreshing drinks while soaking in the beautiful outdoor atmosphere. This event is designed for all ages, making it a perfect outing for families and friends who appreciate local agriculture and community connection. The afternoon features live music by Skeleton Crew, who will take the stage from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. to keep the energy high. Admission to the festival is entirely free, offering an accessible way to enjoy the best of the season in a welcoming environment. Whether you are looking for artisan goods or simply want to indulge in delicious strawberry desserts, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Mark your calendars and head over to 193 Lorax Lane to experience this wonderful celebration of flavor and music. We look forward to seeing you there.

Discover the vibrant pulse of the local community at the Cary Underground Market, hosted by The MAKRS Society. Taking place on the first Sunday of every month from March through December at the renowned Bond Brothers Beer Company, this recurring event offers an exceptional day of entertainment and discovery. Visitors can explore a curated selection of over forty local vendors showcasing unique goods, artisanal crafts, and creative products that capture the spirit of North Carolina. Beyond the shopping experience, the market features an energetic lineup of live bands that provide the perfect soundtrack for your afternoon. Food enthusiasts will also appreciate the mini food truck rodeo, offering an array of delicious local flavors to enjoy in a relaxed atmosphere. This event is entirely free to attend, making it a perfect weekend outing for friends and family alike. Whether you are looking to support local businesses, enjoy high quality live music, or simply soak in the lively community vibe, this market has something for everyone. Join us in downtown Cary for an unforgettable local experience and support our talented regional creators today.

Experience the cinematic thrill of Jurassic Park like never before with the North Carolina Symphony. This unique event invites you to watch Steven Spielberg's Academy Award winning dinosaur masterpiece projected in high definition on a massive screen. As the tension mounts and the prehistoric creatures roam the island, the symphony orchestra will perform John Williams' legendary and iconic musical score live, perfectly synchronized to every moment on screen. This fusion of film and live orchestral performance brings an unparalleled layer of depth and excitement to an already unforgettable story. Join us at the concert hall for three exclusive opportunities to witness this cinematic spectacle. Performances are scheduled for May 1 and May 2 at 8 PM, with an additional matinee show on May 3 at 3 PM. Whether you are a dedicated fan of the film or a lover of orchestral music, this production promises to be an engaging and memorable experience for all guests. Secure your tickets now through the official website to guarantee your seat for this breathtaking display of artistry and adventure. We look forward to seeing you there.

Experience the joy of literature and the great outdoors this May with the Wake County Parks StoryWalk series. We invite families and nature enthusiasts to explore multiple park locations while enjoying engaging children books displayed along scenic pathways. This unique initiative combines physical activity with literacy, providing a wonderful opportunity for children to develop a love for reading while exploring the natural beauty of our local park system. Throughout the month, various parks including Beech Bluff, Crowder, Harris Lake, Oak View, Yates Mill, and Sandy Pines will host featured stories that celebrate nature, kindness, and artistic expression. Each location offers a fresh perspective and a new story to discover, making it an ideal activity for weekend outings or afternoon strolls. Whether you are walking through the woods or along historic paths, these stories are sure to inspire readers of all ages. We encourage you to visit our parks during operating hours to experience these immersive reading adventures firsthand. Plan your visit today, grab your walking shoes, and join us for a delightful exploration of stories set against the backdrop of our beautiful local parks.

Experience the botanical wonder of the Juniper Level Botanic Garden and Plant Delights Nursery during our exclusive Spring Open Nursery and Garden Days. Located in Raleigh, this sprawling twenty-eight acre landscape serves as a premier destination for gardening enthusiasts, researchers, and families alike. Visitors are invited to explore a world-class collection featuring over thirty thousand plant varieties, ranging from rare exotic species sourced from international expeditions to unique native perennials rarely found elsewhere. This event offers a rare opportunity to wander through meticulously curated display gardens that provide endless inspiration for your own outdoor projects. Beyond the scenic beauty, guests are welcome to visit our extensive greenhouses to shop for exceptional plants propagated right here on the property. Whether you are a dedicated horticulturalist or simply seeking a vibrant day in nature, our grounds offer something truly special for every visitor. Admission and parking are entirely free throughout these select weekends, rain or shine. We invite you to join us from nine in the morning until five in the evening to celebrate the arrival of spring and discover your next favorite plant.

Experience the charm of the Wake Forest HerbFest, a celebrated annual tradition and the longest running herb festival in the United States. This vibrant event invites garden enthusiasts and local community members to explore a sprawling marketplace filled with organic, non-GMO, and heritage herbs, along with a wide variety of vegetables and local perennials. Whether you are a master gardener or simply looking to add some green to your living space, you will find the perfect additions to your home collection among the high-quality offerings from our dedicated local vendors. Beyond the exceptional plant selection, attendees can enjoy a festive atmosphere complete with live music, local art displays, and additional craft vendors. This event is entirely free to attend, making it the perfect weekend outing for friends and families looking to celebrate the arrival of spring. Join us at 530 South White Street in Wake Forest over the weekends of April 24 to 26 and May 1 to 3, 2026. Make plans to visit us soon to secure your favorite plants and enjoy a wonderful day outdoors.