Fourth on First Avenue Independence Day Celebration

The KidsWrite! Festival 2026 is an annual showcase where Burning Coal Theatre presents professional productions of one-act plays written by young playwrights from across North Carolina. This initiative aims to foster creative expression in youth by bringing their original stories to the professional stage. Directed by Zoe Matney and Christina Polge, this year features a diverse lineup of nine new works. The program includes performances of Focus by Eliza Basch, And I Feel Fine by Jonathan Noah Howard, Today I Feel Like Death by Taite Capes, Hope in Faith by Mia Hayes, and A Love Letter by Talia Tran. Additionally, the festival showcases Split Screen by Simon Payen, Roulette by Neile Joshi, Apollo’s Great Adventure by Del Traylor, and Karmic Sickness by Samantha Allard. This event is designed for theater enthusiasts, families, and supporters of youth arts education. Attendees can expect a high-energy environment celebrating fresh perspectives and emerging talent. We invite you to witness these unique creative visions firsthand. Please join us at Burning Coal Theatre to support these budding playwrights as they debut their work in a professional setting.

Bridge Fellowship Church is hosting a FREE Vacation Bible School for kids this summer in Southeast Raleigh! Dates: June 22–26, 2026 Times: 6:00–8:00 PM each evening Location: 3060 Hammond Business Place, Suite 121, Raleigh, NC 27610 Cost: Completely FREE and open to all families in the community Ages: Kindergarten through 6th Grade Five nights of Bible stories, worship, crafts, games, and fun built around one big idea — God is bigger than your kids can imagine, and He sees and loves every one of them. Register free (takes 2 minutes): https://bridgefellowshipraleigh.churchcenter.com/calendar/event/223010145 Questions? Call 919-679-1222 or visit bridgefellowshipchurch.com

Get ready for a spectacular evening of community spirit at the Franklinton Independence Day Celebration on Saturday, June 27, 2026. Held at the Franklinton Middle School Football Field, this exciting event runs from 6 to 9:30 p.m. and offers a fantastic atmosphere for guests of all ages. Attendees will enjoy lively musical performances by Stonebrook Moonshine, a variety of delicious local food truck offerings, and an assortment of engaging games designed for kids and families. The evening will conclude with a dazzling fireworks display that lights up the night sky in celebration of our nation's independence. To ensure a safe and enjoyable environment for everyone, please note that alcohol, smoking, pets, personal fireworks, and weapons are strictly prohibited on the premises. This is a wonderful opportunity to connect with neighbors and celebrate the holiday in a vibrant, outdoor setting. We encourage you to bring your lawn chairs and arrive early to secure a great spot on the field. Do not miss out on this memorable local tradition; join us in Franklinton for a night of patriotic fun and festive entertainment.

Join us at the New Hope Valley Railway on July 1 at 10:30am for an extraordinary patriotic celebration marking America’s 250th birthday. This unique excursion offers families the chance to commemorate our nation’s historic milestone while enjoying a scenic and relaxing journey through the beautiful countryside. As you ride the rails, immerse yourself in a festive atmosphere filled with red, white, and blue spirit, and be sure to keep a close lookout for an appearance by Uncle Sam himself. It is a wonderful opportunity to honor our shared history while creating meaningful memories with your loved ones in a picturesque setting. This event is designed for guests of all ages who appreciate the charm of heritage rail travel and the excitement of national pride. We invite you to climb aboard and experience a truly memorable celebration that pays tribute to our nation’s past and present. To ensure your participation in this special commemorative journey, please visit our website to purchase your tickets in advance. We look forward to welcoming you aboard for this remarkable birthday tribute to America.

Join the community for an unforgettable evening at the Fuquay-Varina Independence Day Celebration held at South Park on Wednesday, July 1, 2026. This vibrant event promises a fantastic time for families and friends as we gather to honor our nation with a spectacular display of patriotism. Gates open at 6:00 p.m., inviting guests to enjoy the splash pad until 8:30 p.m. while soaking up the lively summer atmosphere. The celebration features an engaging lineup of live music starting at 6:30 p.m., setting the perfect stage for the evening. As sundown approaches, prepare to be amazed by a dazzling fireworks display scheduled for approximately 9:15 p.m. Guests are encouraged to bring blankets or lawn chairs to settle in comfortably on the grass. While food vendors will be conveniently located on site, you are also welcome to bring your own coolers to enjoy a personal picnic. Please note that alcohol is prohibited at this family-friendly venue. We invite you to mark your calendars, gather your loved ones, and join us for this exciting town tradition as we celebrate Independence Day together in the heart of Fuquay-Varina.

The Great Cary Garden Tour 2026 is a community event showcasing 13 curated gardens across the region. Organized by the Cary Woman's Club and Mom's Valentine for You, this tour supports two local nonprofit organizations while celebrating horticulture. Attendees will enjoy exclusive access to private landscapes filled with seasonal blooms and professional garden designs. The tour spans two days, providing a flexible schedule to explore all locations. On Saturday, guests may purchase lunch on-site to enjoy during their visit. Sunday hours are specifically limited to 1 pm until 5 pm to accommodate weekend schedules. This event is perfect for gardening enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone seeking inspiration for their own outdoor spaces. It offers a calm yet engaging atmosphere ideal for connecting with community members. Tickets grant entry for both days of the event, ensuring you have ample time to appreciate every location at your own pace. We invite you to join us for this unique opportunity to experience the beauty of local gardening. Purchase your tickets early to secure your spot for this rewarding community experience.

The Mental Wellness Family Fun Day is a community event dedicated to promoting health, wellness, and local connection. We provide a supportive environment where residents can access resources while enjoying a productive day out with their neighbors. The purpose of this gathering is to normalize conversations around mental health through accessible community engagement. Attendees can participate in a wide variety of activities designed for all ages. Our program features community vendors, interactive games, and structured family activities. You will also find stations providing essential health and wellness resources. The event includes live music and dancing to keep the energy high throughout the day. Guests can also enjoy a selection of food options available on site. This event is designed for families and individuals who value wellness and community togetherness. It is free and open to the public, offering a welcoming atmosphere for everyone to connect and recharge. We invite you to bring your family and join us for this meaningful experience. We look forward to seeing the community come together to support one another in a positive and energetic space.

Lowe is excited to announce a creative collaboration with the global sensation MrBeast to present the Swarm Workshop series designed specifically for young builders. These monthly sessions offer children a unique opportunity to engage in hands-on crafting by building their very own MrBeast wooden toys. Whether assembling the Swarm Launcher, the Swarm Spinner, or the Swarm Jet, participants will enjoy an engaging environment that encourages creativity, fine motor skills, and technical curiosity. Each workshop is hosted at select Lowe locations from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., providing a fun and structured weekend activity for families to enjoy together. With the registration fee set at 14.95 dollars, your child will receive all necessary materials to complete their project under the guidance of knowledgeable staff members. Spaces are highly limited and tend to fill up quickly, so we encourage families to register in advance to secure their spots. If your preferred location is fully booked, please explore alternative nearby branches to ensure your child does not miss out on this exciting hands-on experience. Visit the official website today to reserve your session.

Experience an unforgettable evening of live music at Boxyard RTP, a premier destination located at 900 Park Offices Drive in Durham. This innovative cargotecture development is uniquely constructed from upcycled shipping containers, creating a vibrant and modern atmosphere perfect for community gatherings. The central pavilion serves as a dynamic stage for talented local performers like The Wiley Fosters, offering guests an intimate and energetic musical experience under the stars. Beyond the live entertainment, visitors are encouraged to explore the diverse selection of food and beverage vendors onsite, or browse the unique retailers and service providers that make Boxyard RTP a standout hub in the Triangle. Whether you are looking to enjoy a relaxing night out with friends or discover local talent, our space provides the ideal backdrop for a memorable time. We invite you to join us for this special performance and soak in the creative energy of our venue. For more information on upcoming performances or to check for real-time updates regarding this event, please visit the official calendar at boxyard.org. We look forward to seeing you at Boxyard RTP soon.

Rooted Wellness Festival is an immersive outdoor experience dedicated to holistic health and physical reconnection. This hands-on event provides attendees with practical tools to integrate wellness into their daily lives through workshops and intentional practice. Guests of all ages are invited to explore the connection between their bodies, the earth, and their community. The event features interactive stations where participants create personalized herbal remedies, tea blends, and natural body-care products. Key highlights include a central tea meditation garden, guided yoga sessions, and sound healing. Attendees can also watch plant-based cooking demonstrations or participate in DIY workshops focused on herbal steams and journaling. Dedicated spaces are available for children to engage in sensory play and for teens to explore mindfulness and creative self-expression. A curated marketplace will also showcase various Black-owned holistic vendors. This festival is designed for individuals and families seeking an inclusive space for rest, learning, and healing. Whether you are interested in plant wisdom or simply need a grounded retreat, this event offers meaningful engagement for everyone. Join us to reconnect with yourself and leave feeling refreshed.

Shakespeare in the Parks presents a live performance of As You Like It at the Knightdale Station Park amphitheater. This event offers an abridged version of the classic play designed to provide an accessible and engaging theatrical experience outdoors. Attendees will watch the story of Rosalind as she travels through the Forest of Arden. The performance features Shakespearean poetry, witty dialogue, and themes of mistaken identity and romance. This production focuses on the power of self discovery and the beauty of the natural world. It brings professional acting to a public park setting for an evening of arts and culture. This performance is suitable for audiences of all ages who enjoy classic literature or outdoor entertainment. The open air atmosphere makes it a great choice for families, theater enthusiasts, and community members looking for a relaxed evening activity. Please bring your own seating or blankets to ensure a comfortable viewing experience on the amphitheater lawn. Join us for this celebration of storytelling under the stars and experience one of the most beloved comedies in the Shakespearean canon.