JC Raulston Arboretum's Garden Storytime

Experience the joy of literacy combined with the beauty of the outdoors this May throughout the Wake County Parks system. Our StoryWalk events invite families and readers of all ages to engage with beloved children stories while enjoying a refreshing nature walk. This unique program transforms park trails into outdoor reading galleries, allowing participants to enjoy literature page by page as they navigate through scenic landscapes. Throughout the month, various park locations will feature diverse titles, ranging from tales about nature and wildlife to stories celebrating creativity and kindness. Whether you are strolling through Oak View or exploring the trails at Beech Bluff, these installations provide a wonderful opportunity for physical activity and intellectual engagement. We encourage families to visit our various park locations to discover these immersive reading experiences for themselves. Please check the official park operating hours to plan your visit accordingly and make the most of this collaborative initiative. Join us today for a peaceful walk, discover a new favorite book, and enjoy the refreshing atmosphere of our local parks. We look forward to seeing you on the trails this May as you embark on these literary adventures.

Prepare for a flavorful weekend at the Kids Food Festival held at Downtown Cary Park. This engaging event invites families to discover the joy of balanced nutrition through hands-on activities, live entertainment, and community-focused explorations. Children can participate in interactive cooking workshops, join exciting scavenger hunts, and enjoy a variety of delicious discoveries across the park grounds. This festival serves as a vibrant platform to educate young chefs about the importance of healthy eating in a fun and welcoming environment. General admission to the festivities is completely free, making it an accessible opportunity for all members of the community to enjoy a day of outdoor learning and entertainment. While many activities are provided at no cost, please note that the specialized James Beard Foundation Future Foodies Classes require a separate registration fee. We invite you to bring your family to Downtown Cary Park on May 9 and 10, between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. Secure your spot now and join us for this unique culinary celebration where every participant can whip up something new and learn about the path to better food choices.

Experience the magic of phonics at the annual Letterland event held at Pullen Park in Raleigh. Running from May 4 to 10, 2026, this beloved celebration transforms the park into an interactive wonderland where families can search for popular Letterlander character cutouts hidden throughout the scenic grounds. This educational initiative, developed in partnership with the Wake County Public School System, is designed to make the foundational concepts of reading both engaging and memorable for young students. Admission to the park for this event is free for all visitors. For even more excitement, join us on April 4 and 7, 2026, from 5 to 8 p.m. for the dedicated Letterland Activity Nights. These evenings feature high-energy interactive stations, including face painting, obstacle courses, bubble zones, and special appearances by iconic characters like Clever Cat and Bouncy Ben. While park rides such as the train and carousel require a small fee of two dollars, the majority of the festivities are completely free. Visit the official website today to purchase your ride tickets in advance and prepare for an unforgettable week of literacy and adventure.

Experience the joy of literacy combined with the beauty of the outdoors this May throughout the Wake County Parks system. Our StoryWalk events invite families and readers of all ages to engage with beloved children stories while enjoying a refreshing nature walk. This unique program transforms park trails into outdoor reading galleries, allowing participants to enjoy literature page by page as they navigate through scenic landscapes. Throughout the month, various park locations will feature diverse titles, ranging from tales about nature and wildlife to stories celebrating creativity and kindness. Whether you are strolling through Oak View or exploring the trails at Beech Bluff, these installations provide a wonderful opportunity for physical activity and intellectual engagement. We encourage families to visit our various park locations to discover these immersive reading experiences for themselves. Please check the official park operating hours to plan your visit accordingly and make the most of this collaborative initiative. Join us today for a peaceful walk, discover a new favorite book, and enjoy the refreshing atmosphere of our local parks. We look forward to seeing you on the trails this May as you embark on these literary adventures.

Experience the extraordinary at the Spring Open Nursery and Garden Days held at the prestigious Juniper Level Botanic Garden and Plant Delights Nursery in Raleigh. Spanning 28 acres, this botanical wonderland features over 30,000 unique species of plants, including rare perennials, exotic specimens, and unusual trees collected from global expeditions across China, South Africa, and beyond. This is an unparalleled opportunity to explore a world class display garden that is typically closed to the general public. Visitors are invited to wander through extensive, meticulously curated grounds to gain inspiration for their own home landscapes or shop for rare plants within the onsite greenhouses. Whether you are a dedicated horticulturalist, a casual gardener, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of nature, you will find endless wonder in these diverse collections. Admission to the gardens and parking are completely free for all guests during these open weekend events. We look forward to welcoming you to this educational and visually stunning environment. Plan your visit today and immerse yourself in the vibrant beauty of our spring garden display.

Experience a heartwarming day at Brajboro Cow Sanctuary located in beautiful Chapel Hill, North Carolina. This dedicated not-for-profit organization offers a unique opportunity to connect with rescued cows, providing them with lifelong care and compassion. The sanctuary opens its doors to the public every Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., inviting guests of all ages to share in the joy of interacting with these gentle animals. Visitors are welcome to bring specific treats like bananas, carrots, cucumber, and celery to feed the cows, creating unforgettable memories. Beyond meeting the animals, the sanctuary provides a wonderful space to enjoy nature. Guests are encouraged to bring their own picnic lunch to enjoy at the on-site picnic benches or challenge themselves on the outdoor slack line. Admission fees directly support the ongoing care and nourishment of the sanctuary residents, while children under twelve enter for free. Please ensure you check the official website before your visit to verify seasonal hours and availability. We look forward to seeing you at the sanctuary for an inspiring and fun weekend outing.