Free Guided Tour of the N.C. State Capitol

Bob Dylan will perform a live concert featuring special guests Lucinda Williams and Jimmie Vaughn and The Tilt-A-Whirl Band. This event brings together three iconic musical acts for an evening of legendary songwriting and blues inspired rock performances. Attendees can expect a comprehensive showcase of Dylan's classic catalog alongside fresh arrangements. Lucinda Williams brings her signature alternative country style to the stage while Jimmie Vaughn and his band provide a high energy performance rooted in classic blues traditions. This collaboration offers a unique opportunity to witness influential artists performing together in one venue. The show is designed for fans of folk, rock, and blues music who appreciate deep lyrical content and skilled musicianship. The atmosphere will be centered on the music and the history of these performers. Tickets are available for purchase now and early booking is encouraged to secure your place. Join us for a memorable night of American music history that highlights the enduring impact of these celebrated performers. Secure your seats today to experience this rare musical lineup live.

Legendary rock band Deep Purple will perform live at the Red Hat Amphitheater in downtown Raleigh. This concert offers fans an opportunity to experience iconic rock music in a premier open-air venue designed for live entertainment. Attendees can expect a full concert experience featuring classic hits and instrumental precision. The set will highlight the band signature sound, including soaring vocal performances, powerful percussion, and the famous interplay between organ and electric guitar. The production focuses on delivering a high-energy, authentic rock show rather than a standard stage performance. This event is ideal for classic rock enthusiasts and music lovers who appreciate seasoned musicianship. The Red Hat Amphitheater provides excellent sightlines and a convenient location within walking distance of downtown dining and transit options. Parking is available nearby to ensure easy access for all concertgoers. Secure your tickets now to witness one of the most influential bands in rock history. Join us for a memorable night of music under the open sky in the heart of Raleigh.

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 Summer Insect Adventure is an educational outdoor program focused on identifying and observing the diverse insects and arthropods living within the park. This event provides a unique opportunity to study the local ecosystem and understand how these small creatures support the health of our environment for both people and wildlife. Participants will use nets to explore various habitats as we search for dragonflies, damselflies, diving beetles, and waterbugs. Our guides will lead the group through the park to find these species, highlighting their roles and behaviors. This hands-on experience allows attendees to get an up-close look at the species that are often overlooked during daily visits. This event is designed for nature enthusiasts and curious individuals who want to learn more about local biology in an active outdoor setting. It is a family friendly activity that encourages observation and environmental appreciation. Please come prepared for a walk by wearing appropriate outdoor clothing and sturdy footwear. We also encourage all participants to bring a personal water bottle to stay hydrated while we explore the park together.

Looking for the perfect way to keep the family entertained this summer? Marquee Cinemas Wakefield 12 in Raleigh is thrilled to host a series of free movie screenings designed specifically for children and families. Running every Tuesday and Wednesday from June 16 through August 5, 2026, this program offers a fantastic opportunity to enjoy the magic of cinema without breaking the budget. With two different showtimes available each morning at 9:30 a.m. and 9:45 a.m., you can easily plan a convenient outing for your little ones. To enhance your movie experience, the theater is providing exclusive concession specials, including affordable popcorn and drink bundles for young viewers. Whether you are seeking a break from the heat or simply a fun weekly tradition, these screenings are the ideal destination. We encourage you to visit the Marquee Cinemas location on Common Oaks Drive to check the full schedule and secure your spots. Make this summer memorable by bringing the whole family together for these exciting film events. Plan your trip today and enjoy a season of cinematic fun at a venue near you.

Join the Town of Chapel Hill and the Food Bank of Central and Eastern North Carolina for our recurring community food distribution events. These essential gatherings are held on the second and fourth Wednesday of every month, providing supplemental support to anyone in our community who needs a helping hand. We invite all neighbors to stop by the Eubanks Park-and-Ride Lot located at 2000 Eubanks Road to receive assistance and connect with our dedicated team of local volunteers. To ensure a smooth experience for everyone, please remember to bring one or two boxes or bags with you when you arrive at 9:30 a.m. This initiative is a wonderful way to foster community spirit while ensuring that no one in our area goes without basic necessities. We are currently seeking energetic volunteers to help us manage these distributions, so please consider signing up to make a difference. If you require more immediate or ongoing food support, we encourage you to visit the Food Bank website to locate an agency near your specific zip code. We look forward to seeing you there and working together to support our neighbors in Chapel Hill.

Join the Museum of Durham History for a nostalgic journey back to the summer of 1976. Fifty years ago, Durham celebrated the Bicentennial at West Point on the Eno, showcasing the vibrant traditions, music, and crafts of North Carolina. We are thrilled to host an exclusive pop-up exhibit and reception to commemorate this significant cultural milestone. This special event offers an immersive look at the original festival through a curated collection of historic photographs, personal stories, and period music. This informal reception will take place on Friday, July 17, 2026, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Museum of Durham History. Come engage with original organizers and community members as we celebrate Durham's rich heritage and the legacy of this iconic gathering. This event is entirely free and open to the public, providing a wonderful opportunity to connect with local history in a relaxed and inviting setting. We invite you to bring your friends and family to share in these cherished memories. We look forward to seeing you there for an unforgettable evening of reflection and community spirit.

Join the Museum of Durham History for an engaging trip down memory lane as we celebrate the 50th anniversary of the historic Bicentennial Folklife Festival. Originally held during the July Fourth weekend of 1976 at West Point on the Eno, this beloved gathering showcased the vibrant traditions, music, and crafts of North Carolina. We are proud to honor this milestone by reuniting with original organizers and community members to reflect on the legacy of that unforgettable weekend. This special pop-up exhibition will be held during Third Friday on July 17, 2026, from 6 to 8 p.m. at our downtown museum location. Guests are invited to enjoy an evening of live music, explore rare photographs, and listen to captivating stories from those who experienced the festival firsthand. This event is entirely free and open to the public, offering a wonderful opportunity to connect with local heritage and celebrate the unique spirit of Durham. Mark your calendars and join us for this insightful community reception as we commemorate a significant moment in our local history.

Experience the charm of local heritage at Historic Yates Mill County Park in Raleigh. As the last operable water-powered gristmill in Wake County, this site offers a unique window into history. Visitors are invited to join professional interpreters for guided Mill History Tours, where you can explore the inner workings of the historic site and learn about its role in the community for over two centuries. Beyond the mill itself, the 174-acre park features beautiful walking trails, environmental exhibits, and natural areas perfect for exploration. Whether you are interested in a deep dive into the mill’s mechanical history, a guided hike with a park naturalist, or family-friendly educational activities, there is something for everyone to enjoy. These programs provide an engaging way to connect with the outdoors and discover the fascinating legacy of this historic landmark. Many events are free to the public, though some require advance registration. We encourage you to visit the official park website today to view the full schedule, reserve your spot for upcoming guided tours, and plan your next visit to this vibrant environmental research center.

Buju Banton and Stephen Marley are embarking on the Roots And Rhymes U.S. Summer Tour 2026. This landmark event brings two GRAMMY award winning reggae legends together for their first full scale co-headlining tour across major cities. The tour serves as a dedicated celebration of Jamaican culture, soul, and the deep roots of reggae music. Attendees can expect high energy live performances from two iconic artists who have significantly shaped the global music landscape. Each show offers a powerful concert experience that showcases the evolution of reggae through classic hits and contemporary sounds. The production will visit iconic venues across the United States to ensure an immersive auditory environment for all guests. This tour is designed for fans of authentic reggae, cultural enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a high quality live music experience. The atmosphere will be vibrant, community focused, and centered on the unifying power of music. We invite you to join us for an unforgettable night of rhythm and soul. Check local venue listings for ticket availability and specific event times to secure your spot at this historic summer tour.

Discover the profound influence of Raleigh's African American community on a guided walking tour through the city's historic downtown core. This engaging one-hour experience invites residents and visitors alike to explore the remnants of the Third Ward neighborhood, the legacy of Black Wall Street, and iconic historic churches that served as cornerstones for the local population. Each step along the 1.4-mile route offers a deeper understanding of the struggles and triumphs that have shaped this vibrant capital city over the centuries. Hosted by the City of Raleigh, these tours run every Saturday from July 11 through September 12, 2026. The journey begins promptly at 10 a.m. at the Dr. M. T. Pope House Museum, located at 511 South Wilmington Street. This tour is a fantastic way to engage with local history while enjoying an active morning outdoors. Tickets are available for purchase online for both adults and children. Space is limited, so we encourage all interested participants to secure their spots in advance to ensure a place on this enlightening cultural exploration of Raleigh.

Discover the vibrant beauty of the Chatham Mills Pollinator Paradise Garden located at 480 Hillsboro Street in Pittsboro, North Carolina. This impressive sanctuary features over 240 species of perennials, trees, shrubs, vines, and grasses, with approximately 85 percent of the plant life being native to North Carolina. Managed by Agricultural Extension Agent Debbie Roos, the garden serves as a vital habitat for bees, butterflies, hummingbirds, and a diverse array of pollinators. It is a true testament to the importance of biodiversity and native landscaping in our local environment. We invite you to participate in one of our professional guided tours to learn more about the ecological significance of this stunning green space. These informative sessions last about ninety minutes and offer a deep dive into the plants that nourish our essential pollinators. While admission is completely free, advance registration is required to secure your spot. We encourage nature enthusiasts of all ages to join us for this unique educational opportunity. Please visit our website today to view upcoming dates and complete your registration to join us for an inspiring morning in the garden.