Memorial Day Drop-In Art Making

Experience the ultimate cinematic block party as JawsFest returns to the Midway in downtown Chapel Hill on Sunday, May 24, 2026. This unique Memorial Day Weekend celebration transforms the local landscape into a vibrant hub of entertainment. Attendees can look forward to an eclectic mix of attractions, including a mechanical shark, a challenging dunk tank, engaging art installations, and a thrilling raffle. The highlight of the event is an immersive screening of the classic film Jaws, brought to life on the big screen. The festivities span across multiple local businesses, including The Baxter, Lapin Bleu, and Local 506, as well as the bustling Midway Alley. Whether you are seeking live music, local art, or the simple joy of community gathering, this event offers something for everyone. Because schedules and individual business activities are evolving, we encourage you to explore the area firsthand to discover the full range of programming available throughout the day. Join your neighbors for this unforgettable celebration of film and community spirit. Plan your visit to 106 North Graham Street and prepare for a weekend to remember.

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.

Animazement is the premier Japanese animation and culture convention held annually in Raleigh. This event serves as a central hub for fans to celebrate anime, manga, and traditional Japanese culture through diverse programming and community engagement. Attendees can experience a wide variety of activities including live concerts, educational workshops, and panel discussions featuring industry experts. The convention floor hosts an extensive marketplace offering limited edition merchandise and unique artwork from independent creators. Guests also have access to interactive gaming areas, cosplay events, and cultural demonstrations designed to provide a comprehensive look at both modern and traditional Japanese arts. This event is perfect for casual viewers, dedicated fans, and cultural enthusiasts who appreciate high quality entertainment and immersive environments. The atmosphere is welcoming and inclusive, encouraging attendees to connect with like minded individuals in a vibrant setting. Whether you are looking to learn something new, discover rare collectibles, or simply enjoy a weekend of festivities, Animazement offers a structured and engaging experience. We invite you to join us in Raleigh for this celebration of creativity and community. Secure your tickets now to participate in this unique gathering.

This hands-on workshop guides participants through the process of creating a custom steel hammer from start to finish. You will learn fundamental metalworking techniques while crafting a functional tool that you can take home and use immediately. Students will work with one-inch square 4140 steel to punch and shape the hammer eye before forging the functional ends. The curriculum includes essential heat treatment methods to ensure the durability of your tool. You will finish the session by attaching a wooden handle to your forged head. This workshop offers a practical look at smithing techniques and the rewards of manual tool production. This course is designed for individuals who have already completed the Forging Intro class. While Forging II is recommended for added experience, it is not required for participation. The atmosphere is professional, focused, and tailored for those eager to expand their metalworking skills in a guided environment. If you enjoy creating durable equipment with your own hands, register today to secure your spot at the anvil and complete this essential project.

Join our enthusiastic team of children booksellers at Quail Ridge Books for an enchanting Under the Tree Storytime experience. Held every Saturday, Sunday, and Monday morning, these sessions are designed to spark imagination and foster a lifelong love of reading in children of all ages. Our staff carefully selects a diverse collection of both beloved classics and exciting new picture books to share with your family. During each thirty-minute session, we invite you to embark on literary adventures that transport listeners to faraway lands, historical eras, or whimsical futures. This recurring program provides a wonderful opportunity for families to connect through the magic of storytelling in a welcoming environment. We encourage you to participate alongside your little ones as they discover the joy of narrative exploration. Please note that parents or guardians are required to stay with their children throughout the duration of the reading. To ensure we maximize our floor space for all attendees, we kindly ask that you park strollers outside the store entrance. We look forward to seeing you this weekend to share a favorite story together.

Unlock your creative potential at Artspace, a premier visual arts center located in the heart of Raleigh at 201 East Davie Street. We invite community members of all ages to explore our vibrant facility through our recurring Open Studio program. Held every Sunday, these sessions provide a welcoming environment where you can engage in fresh, beginner-level art activities designed to spark your imagination and refine your artistic skills. Whether you are an experienced creator or a curious novice, our self-guided programming offers a unique opportunity to interact with professional studio artists and participate in diverse hands-on projects. We take pride in fostering an inclusive atmosphere where art becomes a shared experience for families and individuals alike. This program is completely free, making it the perfect weekend destination for those seeking artistic inspiration and personal growth. Space is limited for these popular sessions, so please ensure you visit our official website to register in advance. We look forward to seeing you at Artspace, where your artistic journey awaits. Join us this Sunday and discover the transformative power of art in a supportive and collaborative community setting.

Unleash your creativity at the Artspace Open Studio, a dynamic program hosted by the premier visual arts center in Downtown Raleigh. Designed for participants aged five and up, this inviting experience offers a self-guided art making activity that changes monthly. Whether you are a curious beginner or a seasoned art enthusiast, this program provides a welcoming environment to explore new techniques and express your unique vision through hands-on practice. Our studio space is a hub of inspiration where you can engage with local artists and immerse yourself in a community that celebrates artistic growth. This weekly event takes place every Sunday from September 7, 2025, through May 31, 2026, from 1:30 to 3:30 in the afternoon. Participation is completely free, making it the perfect opportunity for families and individuals to connect with the arts. While the session is free, registration is required for both children and adults to ensure a comfortable experience for everyone. Visit our website today to reserve your spot and join us for an afternoon of imagination and discovery at Artspace.

Celebrate AAPI Heritage Month with an engaging evening dedicated to Japanese culture featuring live sumo wrestling demonstrations and local cuisine. This event invites the community to experience the traditional art of Japanese Sumo Wrestling firsthand. It serves as an educational and entertaining opportunity to learn about the history and technical aspects of this storied sport. Raijin Sumo, a North Carolina based non-profit sports club, will provide expert demonstrations throughout the event. Attendees will witness live matches that highlight the strength, strategy, and skill required for professional sumo. In addition to the wrestling showcases, Tombachi Food Truck will be stationed on-site. Guests can purchase a variety of hibachi and sushi offerings throughout the evening to enjoy during the performances. This event is open to the public and suitable for individuals and families interested in sports, history, and cultural exploration. The atmosphere is designed to be inclusive, active, and informative for all visitors. We invite you to join us for a unique cultural experience that combines athletic tradition with local culinary delights. Please come prepared for an outdoor event and arrive ready to enjoy an evening of unique demonstrations and dining.

Join us every Sunday for an engaging afternoon of tabletop fun at Guildhall Games, located within the innovative Boxyard RTP. This unique development, constructed from repurposed shipping containers, provides a vibrant and modern backdrop for community gatherings and social connection. Whether you are a casual player looking to learn a new game or a seasoned strategist seeking a challenge, our Sunday sessions offer the perfect environment to connect with fellow gamers in a relaxed setting. Guildhall Games is dedicated to fostering a welcoming community through the power of play. We encourage you to bring friends or meet new ones as you explore our collection and enjoy the distinct atmosphere of Boxyard RTP. Beyond the gaming action, you can explore the various food and beverage vendors situated throughout the pavilion to keep your energy high during your matches. We invite you to stop by between 1:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. to experience the camaraderie of our gaming community. For more information regarding our full schedule of events or specific game features, please visit the official Boxyard RTP calendar online. We look forward to seeing you at the table for an unforgettable afternoon.

The Cozy Panda pottery painting workshop is a creative session where participants select and decorate their own ceramic pieces. This event offers a practical way to explore your artistic side in a relaxed, self-paced environment. During the two-hour workshop, you will choose from a variety of hand-poured ceramics. We provide all necessary materials, including brushes and paints. You can complete your project at your own speed, and you are welcome to take your finished masterpiece home immediately following the session. Staff members are present throughout the event to assist with techniques, provide artistic guidance, or offer inspiration if you need support with your design. This activity is open to all ages and skill levels, making it a great option for individuals, groups of friends, or families looking for a unique outing. The atmosphere is designed to be comfortable and welcoming for every guest. If you are interested in trying a hands-on craft, join us for a session. Please note that individual pieces range from fifteen to twenty-three dollars, with payment collected on-site. We look forward to seeing the unique pieces you create.