Flip the City Fest: Back to School '26

Celebrate Independence Day with the Town of Cary through a weekend of vibrant community festivities held from July 3 to July 4, 2026. This extensive celebration offers something for everyone, starting with an energetic festival at Downtown Cary Park featuring arts and crafts, fun games, and a special screening of the classic film Independence Day. Music lovers can enjoy a patriotic performance by the Cary Town Band at the Cary Arts Center, followed by a spectacular concert from the North Carolina Symphony at the Koka Booth Amphitheatre. Families are encouraged to participate in the annual Independence Day Fishing Tournament at Bond Park, where participants of all ages compete for exciting prizes. The festivities culminate in a grand fireworks display that promises to illuminate the night sky, creating a memorable experience for residents and visitors alike. With free general admission to these events, the Town of Cary invites you to enjoy live entertainment, delicious offerings from local food trucks, and a festive atmosphere. Visit our website today to view the full schedule of events and plan your holiday weekend with us.

This hands-on workshop teaches participants how to craft a unique wooden box from a single block of wood using a bandsaw. You will learn essential woodworking techniques to create a functional piece of art from start to finish. Students will work through the entire production process. You will learn how to safely operate a bandsaw to cut the box shape, carve out the internal space, and create a perfectly fitted lid. After the structural cuts are complete, you will focus on sanding and refining the wood grain to achieve a professional, polished finish. This session provides a practical demonstration of how to turn basic lumber into a beautiful, handcrafted item ready for display or daily use. This class is ideal for beginners and woodworking enthusiasts interested in mastering new shop skills. We provide all necessary tools and materials in a safe and collaborative environment. Whether you are a hobbyist or looking to expand your technical capabilities, this experience offers high value and immediate results. Space is limited, so please register in advance to secure your spot at the workbench.

The Welcome Summer Nature Discovery Walk is a guided outdoor excursion focused on identifying local flora and fauna within our prairies and woodlands. This event provides participants with the opportunity to explore our natural environment while actively contributing to community science initiatives through the iNaturalist platform. We will spend time observing the ecosystem to document species and increase our collective understanding of local biodiversity. During this walk, participants will learn how to use the iNaturalist application to log their discoveries accurately. You will gain hands-on experience in observation techniques and data collection while walking through varied terrains. Our experts will assist with identification challenges, helping you name the mystery plants and critters you encounter along the trail. All observations made during the session will be uploaded to a collaborative database to support ongoing scientific research. This event is ideal for nature enthusiasts, curious learners, and students interested in biology or environmental science. The atmosphere is educational and interactive, making it a great way to engage with the outdoors. Please wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a mobile device with the iNaturalist app installed. Join us to build your knowledge and contribute to science.

This virtual event commemorates Juneteenth by examining the freedom stories of Greene County men who served in the United States Colored Troops. It provides a comprehensive look at how African American genealogy was shaped by the Civil War and the Reconstruction era. Genealogist Trisha Blount will demonstrate how to synthesize records from the State Archives of North Carolina with federal service files, Freedmen Bureau documents, and National Archives pension records. Participants will explore specific historical sites, including the Trent River contraband settlement, while learning to locate and interpret fragmented records to reconstruct lost historical narratives. This session is designed for researchers, historians, and individuals seeking to trace their ancestral roots during this pivotal period in American history. You will gain practical strategies for navigating complex government archives to build detailed community profiles. This event offers an accessible entry point into professional genealogy practices and historical research. Join us to learn how to effectively document these vital stories and honor the legacy of those who fought for freedom. Please register online to secure your virtual spot and gain the skills necessary to pursue your own genealogical research.

Join our enthusiastic team of children booksellers every Saturday, Sunday, and Monday morning for an enchanting literary adventure. Under the Tree Storytime invites young readers and families to gather for a curated selection of picture books that span the globe, travel through time, and celebrate the wonders of the present. Whether your child dreams of faraway kingdoms or cozy neighborhood spots, these sessions provide a perfect opportunity to discover new stories and rediscover beloved classics in a welcoming, community-focused environment. Designed to inspire imagination and a lifelong love of reading, each session lasts thirty minutes and is crafted to be engaging for children of all ages. We encourage parents and guardians to join in the fun, as your presence is an essential part of the experience. Please note that for the comfort of all attendees, we kindly ask that you park strollers outside of the bookstore to ensure everyone has plenty of space to relax and enjoy the tales. We invite you to bring your little ones to Quail Ridge Books this week for an unforgettable storytelling session.

Join us for an exclusive author event featuring New York Times bestselling author Stephanie Dray as she presents her latest historical novel, A Founding Mother: A Novel of Abigail Adams. This session celebrates the release of her newest work, which offers a fresh perspective on the life and influence of one of America's most significant historical figures. During this event, Stephanie Dray will share insights into the research behind her portrayal of Abigail Adams, covering everything from the revolutionary war in Boston to the early days of the American republic. Attendees can learn about the challenges of bringing historical figures to life, the process of writing complex narratives, and the historical context of the Adams family. The author will provide context on her writing journey and the modern implications of her storytelling. This event is perfect for history enthusiasts, book clubs, and fans of historical fiction looking for a deeper understanding of American history. Join us for an engaging discussion about the woman behind the politics. We look forward to welcoming you to the store for this insightful literary conversation.

Experience a celestial treat throughout 2026 as QDOBA celebrates every full moon with a delicious offer for their loyal customers. On the night of each monthly full moon, guests can enjoy a complimentary medium order of chips and queso with the purchase of any full size entree. This limited time promotion allows you to choose between the signature 3-Cheese Queso or the spicy Diablo Queso, ensuring there is a flavor profile to suit every palate during your next visit. To take advantage of this lunar deal, you must be a registered QDOBA Rewards member. If you are not already enrolled, simply sign up through their website to unlock this offer and other exclusive perks at participating locations. Whether you are a fan of classic flavors or prefer a bit of extra heat in your meal, this promotion is a fantastic way to elevate your dining experience. Mark your calendars for the upcoming full moons and plan your next meal accordingly. Head over to your nearest QDOBA and participate in this exciting monthly tradition while supplies last.

Babies and Brunch with The Mom Set is a curated event combining fitness and community for local mothers and their children. This morning gathering offers a shared space for movement, dining, and networking in a relaxed summer setting. The event features a 45-minute Mommy and Me Pilates class, with yoga mats provided for all participants. Following the workout, guests can enjoy a catered brunch featuring various food and beverage options. The experience includes curated mommy bags, interactive vendor activations, and dedicated play areas for children. Photo opportunities are available throughout the venue to capture the morning. This event is designed for moms looking to connect with others in the community while engaging in light exercise. The atmosphere is professional yet welcoming, focusing on providing a meaningful experience for both parents and their little ones. It is an ideal environment to meet local families and enjoy a structured morning of wellness and socialization. Registration is open to anyone seeking a balanced start to the day. Secure your ticket now to join this elevated local experience.

Experience the revitalizing benefits of gentle mat yoga in the beautiful surroundings of Durham Central Park. These complimentary sessions are designed to accommodate practitioners of all skill levels, offering a welcoming space to improve flexibility and find mindfulness. Whether you are a seasoned yogi or a curious beginner, you will find these weekly gatherings to be a perfect way to decompress and prioritize your physical well-being. Each class is professionally led to ensure a safe and supportive environment for all participants. To promote inclusivity within our vibrant community, half of the scheduled sessions are presented in both Spanish and English, while the remaining classes are conducted in English. These sessions run every Tuesday evening from April through September 8, 2026. Please remember to bring your own yoga mat and a bottle of water to stay hydrated throughout the practice. We encourage you to visit the pavilion at 501 Foster Street this season to join fellow fitness enthusiasts. Enhance your health and connect with your neighbors by attending these accessible outdoor wellness opportunities today.

Discover the transformative power of your voice at Unisong, a series of guided song circles designed to nourish your heart and soul. Whether you are a seasoned vocalist or a complete beginner, these ninety-minute sessions offer a welcoming space to explore the healing potential of collective sound. Guided by facilitators Deja Belle and Tessie Castillo, participants engage in purposeful singing and movement designed to process emotion, celebrate nature, and foster deep vibrational connections with others in the community. These gatherings act as a sanctuary for restoration, allowing you to release tension through song and intentional movement. From joyful melodies to deep, resonant humming, every session is crafted to provide a unique journey of self-discovery and collective harmony. Join us at our various locations in Siler City, Durham, and Raleigh to experience this profound practice firsthand. All sessions are completely free and open to individuals ages fifteen and older. Space is limited, so we encourage you to secure your spot today by visiting our official Eventbrite page. Come prepared to open your heart and join our vibrant community of singers as we harmonize for wellness and connection.