Hymn Sing and Ice Cream Social

Join us for the 2nd Annual International Day of Dance Festival on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, at the beautiful Downtown Cary Park. Hosted by Graceful Expressions, this vibrant celebration honors the universal language of dance through a full day of movement and artistic expression. From 10 a.m. until 8:15 p.m., attendees can participate in a variety of inclusive workshops designed for all ages and ability levels. Whether you are a seasoned performer or a beginner looking to explore new rhythms, this festival offers a unique opportunity to experience the joy of dance in an energetic and supportive community atmosphere. The festivities culminate in an evening showcase on the Great Lawn Pavilion Stage, featuring talented local performance groups from across the region. This event is entirely free and family-friendly, making it the perfect outing for everyone. Please note that this is not a drop-off event, so we ask that parents and guardians remain with their children throughout the day. We invite you to head down to Cary and be part of this unforgettable cultural experience. Check our website for a complete schedule of activities and join us in celebrating the power of dance.

Experience the vibrant energy of the Shuffle lunch break music series at Hub RTP. Designed to revitalize your workday, this recurring event brings live entertainment to the heart of Research Triangle Park. Every Wednesday from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., attendees can enjoy curated performances in a relaxed outdoor setting. We are thrilled to kick off the season on March 4, 2026, featuring the talented Butler Knowles performing a lively Country and Western set. As a special opening day treat, the first 100 guests will receive free ice cream to enjoy while they listen. This series runs from March through June and resumes in September through October, showcasing a new artist-in-residence each month. Whether you are looking to network with colleagues or simply enjoy some fresh air with great music, this series provides the perfect mid-week escape. Admission is completely free, making it an accessible way to support local talent. We invite you to join us at 3151 Elion Drive in Durham to discover your new favorite performer and take a well-deserved break.

Experience the vibrant spirit of Raleigh at the Centennial SoundBites concert series. Hosted by the Oak City Music Collective and NC State Centennial Campus, this engaging event series brings the community together for live musical performances in a beautiful outdoor setting. Taking place every Wednesday from March 4 through April 29, 2026, these lunch hour sessions provide the perfect mid-week escape to enjoy high-quality entertainment and fresh air. Located at 321 Coffee on Main Campus Drive, attendees can relax, unwind, and soak in the atmosphere while listening to talented local musicians. To enhance your experience, a variety of popular food trucks will be on site, offering a delicious selection of local eats. This event is entirely free and open to the public, making it an accessible opportunity for students, professionals, and music lovers alike to celebrate local culture. We invite you to join us for these rhythmic afternoons and help us celebrate the talent within our region. Mark your calendars, gather your colleagues or friends, and head over to 321 Coffee to enjoy a memorable musical experience in the heart of the campus.

Escape the urban bustle and immerse yourself in the natural wonders of William B. Umstead State Park. We invite individuals and families to participate in the Curious Minds Trail Adventure, a unique scavenger hunt experience set along the scenic Piedmont East Science Trail. As you traverse the beautiful hiking paths and explore the serene manmade lakes of this Wake County treasure, you will have the chance to observe local wildlife and vibrant plant species in their natural habitat. This engaging activity is designed to spark curiosity and appreciation for the outdoors. To participate in this digital exploration, simply download the Actionbound app on your mobile device. There is no need to create a profile or provide personal data, making it a secure and convenient way to enjoy the park. Once the app is installed, scan the designated QR code or search for the park name to begin your journey. This self-guided adventure is available daily from 8 AM to 8 PM through April 30, 2026. Join us today to uncover the hidden secrets of Umstead State Park.

Experience the magic of literature combined with the beauty of nature throughout the entire month of April. Wake County Parks invites families and book lovers to participate in our engaging StoryWalks program across several picturesque locations. This unique initiative allows you to read featured children books displayed along walking trails, providing an educational and active outdoor experience for visitors of all ages. From the American Tobacco Trail to Yates Mill and beyond, each participating park features a curated story that encourages discovery and movement. Whether you are exploring the trails at Lake Crabtree or taking in the atmosphere at Oak View, these walks offer the perfect opportunity to enjoy fresh air while fostering a love for reading. It is a wonderful way to connect with community spaces and embrace the springtime scenery. We encourage everyone to grab their walking shoes and head out to these various parks to enjoy these stories before they conclude at the end of the month. Please visit our official website to view specific park hours and full locations to plan your family adventure today.

North Hills Kids returns for an exciting spring season in 2026! We invite you and your little ones to join us every Tuesday morning from April 7 through May 12. These sessions run from 9:30 to 11:00 a.m. at The Commons, our vibrant green turf space conveniently located near Ben and Jerry and Sunglass Hut in Raleigh. This series is specifically designed for preschool aged children to enjoy engaging activities in an open air environment. Each weekly event offers unique themes and creative fun tailored for young toddlers and children. Because supplies for certain crafts and projects are limited, we encourage families to arrive early as these activities operate on a first come first served basis. We recommend utilizing the underground parking garage accessible via Six Forks Road for the easiest access to our venue. Visit our official website to view the full schedule of themes and to learn more about our upcoming summer and fall programs. We look forward to seeing your family for a season of learning and play at North Hills.