Knowing the West Community Day

In the Moment is an interactive pilot program that provides engaging cultural experiences for individuals living with memory changes and their care partners. This initiative connects participants through the exploration of art, history, and science in a supportive setting. Each session offers hands-on, sensory-rich activities designed to spark curiosity and meaningful discussion. Participants will explore themes related to the natural world and North Carolina culture while utilizing resources from state institutions. The program draws on expertise from the North Carolina Museum of Art, the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences, the North Carolina Museum of History, and the North Carolina Zoo and Botanical Gardens to ensure diverse and high-quality programming. This recurring program is tailored specifically for those navigating memory changes and those who support them. The atmosphere is welcoming, social, and intentionally paced to foster connection and expression. Whether you are looking to discover new interests or enjoy a shared experience, this program provides a unique opportunity to engage with your community. We invite you to join us for these sessions to discover how culture and connection can enrich daily life. Please register to participate in this upcoming series.

This one day workshop provides a comprehensive introduction to knife making through the stock removal method. Participants will learn to transform a piece of high carbon steel into a finished knife under the guidance of qualified ShopSpace instructors. The curriculum covers the entire production process from initial design layout to final finishing. Students will cut their blade shape, grind bevels, select and attach handle wood, and perform heat treatment. By the end of the session, each attendee will complete and take home their own custom knife. Please note that this is a fast paced course designed to keep all students on track within the allotted timeframe. This class is open to anyone who has already completed either the Fabrication Intro or Forging Intro courses. We recommend arriving with a simple knife design in mind to maximize your shop time, though design resources will be available on site. Register today to gain hands on experience with professional tools and master the fundamental techniques of bladesmithing in a collaborative and highly focused environment.

This pottery painting workshop is a self-guided creative session where participants paint their own ceramic pieces. The event offers a relaxed environment to explore artistic expression while working with various ceramic items like animals and trinket dishes. Upon arrival, guests select a ceramic item and receive all necessary painting materials, including brushes and paints. A team remains available throughout the ninety minute session to provide artistic guidance and tips. As a special highlight, attendees are welcome to interact with the resident cats during the creative process. All materials needed for painting are included with the ticket purchase. This workshop is suitable for all ages and skill levels, making it ideal for individuals, friends, and families. Whether you are seeking a solo creative outlet or a unique group activity, the studio provides a cozy atmosphere for everyone. You will leave with a personalized, hand painted ceramic piece to take home. We invite you to join us for an afternoon of fun, creativity, and feline company. Please book your spot in advance to ensure availability for this engaging hands on experience.

The Fine Arts League of Cary proudly presents the 16th Annual Wake County Teen Art Exhibition, a vibrant celebration of creativity showcasing over 100 works by talented student artists from across Wake County. On view May 6–27, 2026, at the Frankie G. Weems Gallery on the campus of Meredith College, this professionally curated exhibition highlights the exceptional achievements of young artists selected by their teachers. Join the community for a special public reception and awards ceremony on May 10, 2026, from 2:00–4:00 p.m., where $20,000 in prizes will be awarded to students and their schools. Sponsored by Cary Family Dental and supported by local arts organizations and Meredith College, the exhibition not only honors artistic excellence but also reinvests in school art programs, helping foster the next generation of creative thinkers. Now in its 16th year, this inspiring event underscores the importance of arts education while offering students a meaningful opportunity to exhibit their work in a gallery setting. All are welcome to attend and experience the creativity, imagination, and talent of Wake County’s young artists.

Experience the magic of literature and the beauty of the outdoors this May with the Wake County Parks StoryWalks initiative. This unique program combines physical activity with early literacy, allowing families to enjoy a children book page by page as they navigate scenic nature trails. It is an excellent way to encourage a love for reading while exploring the diverse landscapes of our local park system. Throughout the month, various parks will feature rotating story selections, offering fresh adventures for recurring visitors. Whether you are strolling through the walkways of Oak View or wandering the natural paths of Harris Lake, these curated experiences provide a refreshing escape for readers of all ages. We invite you and your family to visit these sites throughout May to engage with these wonderful tales in an immersive environment. Please check the official park schedules to plan your visit and ensure you have plenty of time to enjoy the trails until sunset. Grab your walking shoes and prepare for a delightful journey where every step leads to a new page of discovery. We look forward to seeing you out on the trail soon.

Experience the botanical wonder of Juniper Level Botanic Garden and Plant Delights Nursery during their exclusive seasonal open house events. Spanning twenty eight acres in Raleigh, North Carolina, this world renowned destination showcases over thirty thousand unique plant varieties, including rare perennials, exotic specimens, and unusual trees collected from global expeditions. Whether you are a dedicated horticulturalist or a passionate home gardener, you will find endless inspiration wandering through these meticulously maintained display gardens and research spaces. These open weekend events provide a rare opportunity for the public to explore the grounds without prior reservations. Discover new favorites for your own landscape while shopping for unique additions in the onsite sales greenhouses. The nursery is committed to educational excellence and botanical diversity, making this an essential destination for nature enthusiasts of all backgrounds. Join us for a weekend of discovery and community in a truly remarkable setting. Admission and parking are entirely free, and the event proceeds rain or shine. Visit our website today to plan your trip and browse our extensive online catalogue for your next planting project.

The Fine Arts League of Cary proudly presents the 16th Annual Wake County Teen Art Exhibition, a vibrant celebration of creativity showcasing over 100 works by talented student artists from across Wake County. On view May 6–27, 2026, at the Frankie G. Weems Gallery on the campus of Meredith College, this professionally curated exhibition highlights the exceptional achievements of young artists selected by their teachers. Join the community for a special public reception and awards ceremony on May 10, 2026, from 2:00–4:00 p.m., where $20,000 in prizes will be awarded to students and their schools. Sponsored by Cary Family Dental and supported by local arts organizations and Meredith College, the exhibition not only honors artistic excellence but also reinvests in school art programs, helping foster the next generation of creative thinkers. Now in its 16th year, this inspiring event underscores the importance of arts education while offering students a meaningful opportunity to exhibit their work in a gallery setting. All are welcome to attend and experience the creativity, imagination, and talent of Wake County’s young artists.

Unleash your inner artist at Marbles Artrageous, a vibrant program designed to spark creativity and imagination in visitors of all ages. This engaging series invites you to explore a diverse array of materials, textures, and artistic techniques in a supportive and collaborative environment. Whether you are experimenting with new mediums or refining your existing skills, you will find everything you need to bring your unique vision to life and create one of a kind masterpieces that reflect your personal style. The program offers a dedicated space where self expression takes center stage. We provide all the essential tools and guidance to ensure an inspiring experience for every participant. This is the perfect opportunity to step away from the daily routine and immerse yourself in a world of color and design. Join us on Thursdays, Fridays, or Saturdays to enjoy this creative journey included with your museum admission. We encourage you to bring your family and friends to share in the fun of artistic discovery. Plan your visit today and get ready to let your creativity take the lead at our next session.

Spark your young explorer's curiosity with an engaging morning at the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences. Every Friday, we invite families to join us for Story Time, a delightful program specifically curated for children aged five and younger. Hosted in our bright and welcoming Windows on the World classroom on the third floor of the Nature Exploration Center, this experience brings the wonders of the natural world to life through captivating literature. Our professional staff selects books that are both educational and entertaining, ensuring that every session is perfectly tailored to the developmental needs of your little ones. This recurring weekly event offers a fantastic opportunity to foster a love for reading while exploring the museum environment. Although we focus on literary adventures, you might even encounter some of our fascinating museum inhabitants during your visit. We encourage families to plan their Friday mornings around this consistent and enriching activity. Join our community of curious minds and make these weekly sessions a staple of your child's early education. We look forward to welcoming you this Friday at 10:30am for an unforgettable story time experience.