First Friday in Downtown Fuquay-Varina

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.

Lump is hosting a surprise pop up group exhibition this weekend to celebrate our final First Friday event. This show serves as a celebratory transition period before our official move to plum, offering a unique opportunity to experience our space one last time in its current form. Attendees can expect a diverse showcase of artistic works featuring various contributors from our local community. The exhibition highlights the creative spirit that has defined Lump throughout its tenure. Visitors will have the chance to engage with the art, explore the gallery space, and connect with fellow art enthusiasts during this casual open house. This event is open to all members of the public who enjoy contemporary art and community gatherings. The atmosphere will be lively and welcoming, making it an ideal destination for your weekend plans. Whether you are a longtime supporter or a first time visitor, this is a significant moment to join us for a final farewell. We encourage everyone to drop by during our operating hours to share in this experience. We look forward to seeing you there for this special milestone.

Lump is hosting a surprise pop up group exhibition this weekend to celebrate our final First Friday event. This show serves as a celebratory transition period before our official move to plum, offering a unique opportunity to experience our space one last time in its current form. Attendees can expect a diverse showcase of artistic works featuring various contributors from our local community. The exhibition highlights the creative spirit that has defined Lump throughout its tenure. Visitors will have the chance to engage with the art, explore the gallery space, and connect with fellow art enthusiasts during this casual open house. This event is open to all members of the public who enjoy contemporary art and community gatherings. The atmosphere will be lively and welcoming, making it an ideal destination for your weekend plans. Whether you are a longtime supporter or a first time visitor, this is a significant moment to join us for a final farewell. We encourage everyone to drop by during our operating hours to share in this experience. We look forward to seeing you there for this special milestone.

Experience the vibrant intersection of art and community at The Market at NCMA. Held on the first Saturday of each month at the North Carolina Museum of Art in Raleigh, this recurring event features a curated selection of offerings from Triangle Pop-Up. Guests are invited to explore a diverse array of unique, handcrafted goods created by talented local artists and artisans. Whether you are searching for a special gift or simply seeking inspiration, the market provides an exceptional atmosphere for discovery and connection. Beyond the shopping experience, attendees can enjoy live music performances that set a lively tone for the afternoon. Take full advantage of the beautiful museum park and explore the galleries, as admission to both the market and the museum is completely free. This is a wonderful opportunity to support local creators while enjoying the cultural richness of our community in a stunning outdoor setting. Please join us for this recurring celebration of creativity. We encourage you to visit our website for additional details and to plan your visit to this delightful monthly gathering.

Experience the bounty of the region at the Durham Farmers Market, a vibrant hub dedicated to local agriculture and community connection. Located at 501 Foster Street, this market features produce and goods sourced from within a seventy-mile radius. It is a fantastic destination for families and food enthusiasts looking to support local growers while enjoying fresh, seasonal ingredients in the heart of Durham. We are excited to announce our upcoming Triple Bucks Days on July 25 and August 8, 2026. This special event allows SNAP, WIC, Senior FMNP, and SUN Bucks participants to triple their benefits, turning ten dollars into thirty dollars worth of market tokens. Whether you use your benefits, cash, or card, this is the perfect opportunity to stock up on high-quality local food before the program concludes at the end of August. Please visit our information table upon arrival to receive your tokens and take full advantage of this generous matching program. Join us from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. to celebrate our community and enjoy everything our local farmers have to offer. We look forward to seeing you there.

Join the community for the Sharewear event hosted by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints at 1524 Jenkins Road, Wake Forest, on August 8, 2026. This wonderful initiative provides individuals and families with free access to clothing, bedding, and essential school supplies to help prepare for the upcoming academic year. Everyone is welcome to participate in this shopping experience, where all items are provided completely free of charge to those in need. Beyond providing support, the event serves as a platform for neighbors to help neighbors. If you have gently used items you wish to donate, please drop them off on Friday, August 7, 2026, between 7 a.m. and 1 p.m. or from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. Your generous contributions make this event possible and ensure that everyone starts their season with dignity and necessary resources. We encourage you to invite your friends and family to join us for a day of giving and community spirit. Mark your calendars and be part of this impactful gathering designed to strengthen our local neighborhood.

Experience the beauty of nature and the joy of farm life at the Sunrise Community Farm Center in Chapel Hill. Every Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., this inclusive space invites visitors of all ages and backgrounds to explore their expansive grounds. Whether you are looking for a weekend getaway or an educational day out, the farm offers a welcoming environment regardless of the weather, thanks to numerous covered and protected areas available across the property. Enjoy a hands-on experience by interacting with the farm residents or take advantage of the optional pony and horse rides for an added touch of adventure. Admission is set at an accessible price of eight dollars, while ride packages are available for eighteen dollars. While reservations are not required for general admission, booking ahead for riding spots is highly encouraged to ensure your place. We invite you to gather your friends and family for an unforgettable day in the fresh air. Visit our website today to secure your tickets and plan your trip to this vibrant local treasure. We look forward to welcoming you to the farm this Saturday for a memorable community experience.