Last Fridays Art Walk in Hillsborough

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!

Experience the ultimate treasure hunt at The Raleigh Market, held every weekend at the North Carolina State Fairgrounds. For over 50 years, this vibrant gathering has brought together hundreds of local vendors, making it one of the premier shopping destinations in the state. Whether you are searching for high-end antiques, reliable power tools, unique jewelry, or handcrafted art, you are certain to discover something extraordinary among the extensive indoor and outdoor displays. It is the perfect weekend outing for families and savvy shoppers alike. Beyond the incredible variety of merchandise, The Raleigh Market offers a delicious culinary experience featuring an rotating array of local food trucks, classic fair favorites, and fresh farm stands. Come prepared to explore and enjoy a meal while you browse through the diverse collection of goods. Best of all, both admission and parking are completely free, providing an accessible and fun experience for everyone. Visit the North Carolina State Fairgrounds this Saturday or Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. to see what treasures await you at this historic market.

Downtown Raleigh Restaurant Week returns July 16–26, 2026, giving locals and visitors the perfect opportunity to explore Raleigh's vibrant dining scene. Throughout the 11-day event, participating restaurants, cafés, bars, bakeries, and breweries will offer prix-fixe dinners, lunch specials, drink specials, desserts, and exclusive discounts. Whether you're looking for an upscale date night, a casual lunch downtown, or a sweet treat, Restaurant Week is one of the best times of the year to discover new favorites while supporting local businesses. What to Expect Participating businesses may offer one or more of the following: 3-course prix-fixe dinners Lunch specials Dinner specials Drink specials Dessert specials Restaurant Week discounts Price points vary by restaurant, with many specials ranging from under $20 to $50+ for premium dining experiences. Participating Restaurants American & Southern 10th & Terrace Birdie's Barroom & Kitchen Good Day Good Night The Big Easy NC The Overlook The Raleigh Times Bar Parkside Midwood Smokehouse The Pit Wye Hill Kitchen & Brewing Woody's at City Market The Flavor Hills Biscuit Belly Italian Anthony's LaPiazza Caffe Luna Figulina Pasta + Provisions Flour & Barrel Gravy Mulino Italian Kitchen & Bar Pierro's Vidrio Mediterranean, Greek & Middle Eastern Boatman Spirits Co. ORO Restaurant & Lounge Sitti Authentic Lebanese Taverna Agora Asian & Sushi Sono Omakase by Kai Sushi Blues Cafe Sushi O Bistro & Sushi Bar Libations 317 & Su-Z's Asian Kitchen Latin American & Mexican Centro Mexican Restaurant Cuya Cocina Latina Cuya Cafe Mazahua Azteca Cafés, Bakeries & Desserts 42 & Lawrence Captain Cookie & the Milkman Palm Berries Sugar Euphoria Sosta Cafe The Bike Library The Cupcake Shoppe Bakery The Yard Milkshake Bar Bars & Lounges Bar Marigold Botanical Lounge Heights House Hotel Le Dive Sullivan's Steakhouse The Willard Rooftop Lounge Plant-Based & Vegan Element Gastropub Irregardless Cafe The Dirty V Additional Participating Restaurants Amrut: Taste of India Urban Oak Sunflower's Café Highlights This year's lineup includes more than 60 participating businesses across Downtown Raleigh, featuring everything from neighborhood cafés and breweries to award-winning restaurants. Popular participating spots include: Caffe Luna Gravy Mulino Italian Kitchen & Bar Taverna Agora Vidrio Sullivan's Steakhouse Wye Hill Kitchen & Brewing Parkside The Pit Sono ORO Restaurant & Lounge Birdie's Barroom & Kitchen Many restaurants are serving limited-time seasonal menus featuring fresh North Carolina ingredients, while others are offering exclusive cocktails, desserts, or discounts available only during Restaurant Week. Plan Your Visit Because each restaurant chooses its own Restaurant Week menu and pricing, offerings vary from location to location. Some restaurants recommend reservations, especially for dinner service during weekends. Be sure to check each participating restaurant's current Restaurant Week menu before visiting, as specials and availability may change throughout the event.

Celebrate National Auntie Day on July 26, 2026, with a delicious treat from Auntie Anne's. This special promotion invites fans of the iconic pretzel brand to enjoy a buy one, get one free offer on their favorite snacks. Whether you are craving a classic Original Pretzel or the sweet goodness of a Cinnamon Sugar variation, this is the perfect opportunity to satisfy your hunger while celebrating with friends and family. To participate in this savory event, you must be a registered Auntie Anne's Rewards member. Simply purchase any eligible pretzel item, such as pretzel nuggets or mini pretzel dogs, and receive a second item of equal or lesser value for free. Please note that this offer is valid for single use and must be redeemed through the official Auntie Anne's Rewards mobile application at participating locations. Do not miss out on this fantastic deal to commemorate National Auntie Day. Download the rewards app today, head to your nearest Auntie Anne's store, and treat yourself to a freshly baked snack. Visit the Auntie Anne's website for more information on store locations and terms.

The Enchanted Princess Painting Event is an interactive creative experience designed for children to meet a professional ice princess character. This gathering provides a dedicated space for attendees to engage in artistic activities and enjoy themed entertainment in a festive environment. Participants will have the opportunity to paint their own ceramic princess figurine and craft a personalized crown to take home. A professional character performer hired from Makani Events will be on-site to interact with guests. A designated photo station is available throughout the session for families to capture memories and take pictures with the princess during the event. This event is ideal for young children who enjoy imaginative play and hands-on creative projects. The atmosphere is designed to be friendly and organized to ensure a positive experience for all participants. We invite you to bring your family for a morning of creativity and fun. Please secure your spot early to ensure availability for this engaging activity. We look forward to seeing you there for a memorable day of painting and crafting with our special guest.

The MAKRS Society invites you to experience the vibrant Durham Underground Market, a premier showcase of creativity and community spirit. Hosted at the iconic Durham Central Park, this recurring event brings together more than fifty local makers, independent artists, and unique small businesses. Whether you are searching for one-of-a-kind handmade goods, handcrafted jewelry, or eclectic art pieces, this market offers an unparalleled opportunity to support regional talent while exploring the heart of North Carolina. Beyond shopping, the atmosphere is enriched by a diverse lineup of talented local musicians and bands, creating a lively backdrop for your Sunday afternoon. Visitors can also participate in engaging workshops or sample delicious offerings from a curated selection of food trucks parked on-site. This free, family-friendly event runs from March through November and serves as a vital hub for connection and discovery in the Triangle area. We encourage you to gather your friends and family to join us for a day of inspiration, entertainment, and local flavor. Mark your calendars and prepare to uncover hidden treasures at your next favorite neighborhood destination.

Pottery Painting with Cozy Panda is a self-guided creative workshop where participants paint hand-poured ceramic pieces. This event offers a relaxed environment for individuals to explore their artistic side while enjoying a social atmosphere at South Line Brewing Co. During this ninety-minute session, you select your preferred ceramic item from a diverse collection. We supply all necessary paints, brushes, and professional guidance to ensure your piece is finished to your liking. Because we use specialized materials, your ceramic masterpiece is ready to take home immediately. Guests may purchase beverages from the venue throughout the afternoon, adding a social element to the painting process. This workshop is designed for all ages and experience levels, making it an ideal activity for solo participants, friends, or families. The atmosphere is casual, supportive, and focused on providing a comfortable space for creative expression. We invite you to bring your imagination and join us for a productive afternoon of painting. Secure your ticket now to reserve your spot and enjoy this unique opportunity to create something truly one of a kind.

Experience the vibrant energy of Taste of Soul NC, an ultimate cookout celebration coming to City Plaza in downtown Raleigh on July 26, 2026. This dynamic food festival brings the community together for a full day of culinary delights, local merchant shopping, and incredible live entertainment. From 1:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m., attendees can explore a diverse array of food trucks while enjoying music from a talented DJ and live performers. Designed as a family-friendly event, the festival features bounce houses to keep children entertained while adults sample delicious offerings from various local vendors. The atmosphere is crafted to highlight local talent and foster community spirit in the heart of Raleigh. Best of all, admission is completely free for all guests, meaning you only pay for the food and drinks you choose to enjoy. Do not miss your chance to participate in this highly anticipated local tradition. Bring your friends and family for an afternoon filled with culture, great food, and music. Plan your visit to Fayetteville Street and join us for this unforgettable outdoor experience.

Join the Johnston County Visitors Bureau for the inaugural JoCo Block Party, an energetic celebration of our local community. This event takes place on Friday, July 31, 2026, from 3 to 5 p.m. at 234 Venture Drive in Smithfield. We invite residents, newcomers, and travelers passing through on I-95 to discover the unique attractions that make Johnston County a vibrant place to live and visit. This family friendly occasion brings the best of our region to life through live music, diverse food trucks, and exciting giveaways. Throughout the afternoon, you will have the chance to engage with representatives from various local attractions and learn how the Visitors Bureau helps showcase the very best of our county. Whether you are seeking your next local adventure or simply looking to enjoy a fun afternoon with the community, there is something here for everyone to enjoy. This event is entirely free and open to the public. Mark your calendar and come experience the heart of Johnston County. We look forward to welcoming you to this special celebration of our local culture and tourism spirit.

Experience the vibrant spirit of downtown Hillsborough during the monthly Last Fridays event. On the final Friday of every month, the town transforms into a bustling hub of creativity, inviting residents and visitors alike to explore a diverse array of art galleries, artist studios, and boutique shops. Whether you are browsing fine jewelry or dining at award winning local restaurants, there is always something spectacular to discover throughout the charming streets of the historic district. From May through October, the festivities expand to include the Makers Market held on the North Lawn of the Old Courthouse, featuring more than twenty talented local vendors showcasing their unique handcrafted goods. You can also enjoy the sounds of the season with live performances on the South Lawn as part of the Live on the Lawn series. This community-driven celebration highlights the incredible talent within our region and provides a wonderful atmosphere for a night out. Please visit the Hillsborough Arts Council website to view the full calendar of events and start planning your visit to this unforgettable monthly showcase.