Live at The Bark Bar: Taylor Schiess

Life at the Waters Edge is an educational outdoor session exploring the ecological design and biodiversity of the Downtown Cary Park pond. This program introduces participants to the specific plants and wildlife that inhabit our local aquatic ecosystem while explaining the sustainable management practices that keep the area healthy and vibrant for all visitors. Guided by Downtown Cary Park horticulturist and Emmy-award winning naturalist Dr. Patrick McMillan, attendees will receive a professional overview of the pond environment. You will examine the complex relationships between native flora and fauna while gaining insight into how urban park management fosters a thriving natural habitat. This experience bridges the gap between scientific observation and public landscape design in an accessible way. This event is designed for nature enthusiasts, local residents, and anyone interested in sustainable park management. The session takes place entirely outdoors and involves walking around the pond area to observe wildlife firsthand. Please dress comfortably for outdoor conditions, wear appropriate footwear for walking, and bring your own water to stay hydrated throughout the duration of the class. We look forward to seeing you at the pond.

Gather: A Seasonal Supper is an exclusive farm-to-table dining experience held at the Gathering House in Downtown Cary Park. This one-night-only event showcases the best of North Carolina culinary talent through a curated three-course meal featuring locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. Guests will begin the evening with hors d oeuvres and cocktails from Flour and Barrel and Side Door Cocktail Bar. The main course features wood-fired dishes by chef Jake Wood of Lawrence Barbecue, followed by artisanal breads and desserts from Christopher McLaurin of Lutra Bakery. Every component of the menu is chef-selected to highlight the regional landscape and provide a high-quality dining experience. This event is ideal for food enthusiasts and those looking to enjoy an immersive evening in a sophisticated park setting. The atmosphere combines communal dining with ambient lighting to create a welcoming social environment. Please note that the kitchen can accommodate dietary restrictions and allergies upon request. We invite you to join us for this unique celebration of seasonal flavors and local craftsmanship. Secure your place now for an unforgettable evening of culinary artistry in the heart of the park.

Music Bingo is an interactive game night held at Downtown Cary Park where players identify popular songs to fill out their bingo cards. This event combines traditional bingo mechanics with a curated music playlist to create an engaging experience for the community. Participants can expect a fast paced game featuring a variety of musical genres that serve as the foundation for each round. As songs play attendees check their cards to identify the tracks and work toward completing their winning patterns. The event includes competitive rounds and opportunities to win prizes for those who secure a bingo first. It offers a structured way to enjoy live entertainment while participating in a social activity. This event is designed for music enthusiasts, friends, and families looking for an entertaining outdoor activity in the park. The atmosphere is energetic and inclusive, welcoming participants of all skill levels. We encourage everyone to gather their friends and join us for this unique musical experience. Please arrive early to secure your spot and prepare to play for a chance to win.

Experience the grand finale of the Sweetwater Town Center Spring Concert Series on Friday, May 15, 2026. This highly anticipated event features an evening of incredible live music performed on the picturesque Market Square Lawn in Apex, North Carolina. The concert kicks off at 5 p.m. and continues until 8 p.m., showcasing the talented Jamey Meeter followed by headliner Julia Golden. Julia Golden, a celebrated artist known for her appearance on The Voice and her status as a three time Best of the Pines champion, promises an unforgettable performance for music enthusiasts of all ages. We invite the local community to gather for this vibrant celebration of local talent and outdoor entertainment. Please bring your lawn chairs and blankets to ensure a comfortable viewing experience as you enjoy the spring weather. While outside coolers are not permitted at this venue, attendees can enjoy the welcoming atmosphere of the town center. Do not miss your chance to be part of this wonderful musical experience. Mark your calendars, gather your friends, and join us for an evening of melody under the stars.

Get ready for an unforgettable musical experience at the Carolina Indie Fest, taking place on May 15 and 16, 2026, at Hugger Mugger Brewing in downtown Sanford, North Carolina. This exciting two-day outdoor festival showcases ten diverse performances that highlight the best of the local indie scene. Whether you are a dedicated music lover or just looking for a lively weekend activity, this event offers the perfect atmosphere to relax and enjoy high-quality live entertainment under the open sky. Beyond the incredible lineup of artists, attendees can explore a variety of local arts and crafts vendors or grab a delicious bite from onsite food trucks. This family-friendly gathering welcomes children and pets, making it an ideal destination for a community outing. Please remember to bring your lawn chairs for maximum comfort while you enjoy the performances. The festival runs from 5 to 10 p.m. on Friday and 2 to 9 p.m. on Saturday. Head over to the official Carolina Indie Fest Facebook page for the latest updates and mark your calendars for this exceptional free event.

Experience an unforgettable evening of rhythm and community at the Sunrise Community Farm Center in Chapel Hill. On Friday, May 15, 2026, we invite you to join us for an energetic Barn Dance featuring the soulful sounds of The Fuzzy Catfish Blues Band. This event celebrates the vibrant spirit of our local farm, offering a perfect opportunity to enjoy live music and dancing under the stars in a welcoming, inclusive environment suitable for all ages and backgrounds. We believe that culture and connection should be accessible to everyone in our community. In this spirit, we are adopting a pay what you can ticket model for this event. Your contributions directly support our talented local musicians while ensuring that high-quality entertainment remains available to all neighbors regardless of budget. This is a fantastic way to spend a Friday night while giving back to the arts scene. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and the festivities continue until 9 p.m. We encourage you to bring your dancing shoes and join us at 6407 Millhouse Road for this heartwarming celebration. Please visit our website for further details and to plan your visit to our community farm center.

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.