Museum of Life and Science Durham Community Days

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.

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.

Experience a transformative gathering at the Festival of Abundance, a unique community celebration hosted at the Carrboro Town Commons and the Carrboro Arts Center on May 23 and 24, 2026. This inspiring event is built on the principles of collaboration, care, and cooperation, inviting attendees to step away from competition and toward a collective vision of a more just and hopeful world. The atmosphere is designed to be inclusive and empowering for people of all ages. Throughout the weekend, guests can participate in an array of engaging offerings, including free food, interactive skill-sharing workshops, repair stations, and collaborative games. You will also have the opportunity to browse free supplies and literature while enjoying public art and live music. This is a wonderful chance to connect with passionate individuals and local community groups dedicated to turning optimistic possibilities into a tangible reality. We encourage you to join us for this completely free convergence of community spirit. Come ready to shape the space and imagine a brighter future together. Visit our website for more details or simply head to Carrboro to join the movement.

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.

Welcome to Marbles Playdates, an engaging and dynamic series designed specifically for young learners aged two to five. This program invites your child to immerse themselves in play-based STEAM activities that are carefully crafted to spark curiosity, inspire creativity, and foster meaningful connections. By allowing children to take the lead in their own exploration, we provide a supportive environment where natural interests guide the learning process. Each session features rotating themes and interactive challenges, ensuring that every visit offers a fresh and exciting way to engage with core scientific and artistic concepts. Our professional team is dedicated to creating a welcoming atmosphere where siblings are always invited to participate and discover together. Whether your child is building, experimenting, or solving problems, they will benefit from a structured yet flexible approach to early childhood development. Do not miss this opportunity to turn playtime into a powerful educational experience. Please visit our official website to view the schedule and complete your registration to secure your spot today. We look forward to seeing your family at our next monthly gathering.

The Great Sunflower Project is a collaborative citizen science initiative focused on monitoring pollinator populations at Prairie Ridge. This event invites community members to participate in active research by identifying and recording local insect species to help support global conservation efforts. By contributing data to this project, you help scientists understand how environmental changes impact essential pollinators within our ecosystems. During this session, you will learn to identify local pollinators and participate in field observations throughout the Prairie Ridge Ecostation. Our instructors will guide you through the process of recording data and uploading your findings to the broader scientific database. This hands-on experience provides a practical look at how field research works while allowing you to explore the local habitat in an engaging and educational environment. This event is ideal for anyone interested in biology, conservation, or environmental science. Please arrive prepared for outdoor weather conditions and be ready for a walk of approximately one half mile. Come join our team to gain valuable skills in scientific observation and make a tangible contribution to the protection of our regional pollinators.

Experience the ultimate seasonal getaway at Phillips Farms Market and Fun Park, where agriculture meets endless family entertainment. Our expansive grounds are designed to offer a vibrant escape, featuring an impressive variety of attractions including an XL corn box, pedal cart tracks, bounce pillows, and our charming Pint Sized Pasture petting zoo. Whether you are racing on our roller racers or enjoying a scenic wagon ride, there is something for guests of all ages to enjoy during our spring and summer operations. We are proud to host a rotating calendar of community-focused events, ranging from interactive festivals and strawberry celebrations to impactful blood drives and tailgating parties. Each visit promises unique memories against the backdrop of our beautiful rural setting. Our facility provides both general admission and all-inclusive Super Fun Passes to tailor your experience to your preferences. We invite you to join us this weekend to explore our market, enjoy the fresh air, and create lasting family traditions. Please visit our website or social media channels for the latest event schedule and ticket information. We look forward to welcoming you to the farm for a season of unforgettable fun.

Step back in time at Historic Yates Mill County Park, a beautiful 174-acre wildlife refuge in Raleigh that hosts the only operable water-powered gristmill in the entire county. This remarkable site offers an immersive look at history and environmental conservation. During the open house, you are invited to explore the historic mill while professional interpreters explain its inner workings and rich heritage. It is a fantastic opportunity to see the ancient machinery that shaped our local agricultural past. Beyond the mill itself, the park offers an array of engaging activities, including walking trails, gardens, and the Yates Mill Aquatic Conservation Center. Whether you are interested in the mechanics of grinding grain, local freshwater animal research, or simply enjoying the tranquil nature trails, there is something here for every visitor. Admission is completely free, making it the perfect destination for families, history buffs, and nature enthusiasts alike. Please check the official park website for detailed schedules and to register for specialized guided programs. We look forward to seeing you at the mill for an unforgettable afternoon of learning and discovery.

Experience the ultimate weekend finale at The Sunday Set, a vibrant weekly residency hosted on the stunning rooftop of The Durham in the heart of Chapel Hill Street. Beginning March 15, 2026, and running through October, this recurring event offers the perfect blend of relaxation and high energy against the backdrop of breathtaking city views. Each Sunday from 4 to 10 p.m., guests can unwind while enjoying rotating live DJ sets that keep the atmosphere lively from 5 to 8 p.m. Indulge in our carefully curated menu, featuring delicious two dollar oysters, customizable spritz cocktails at our build-your-own bar, and artisanal snack boards designed for sharing. Whether you are looking to toast to the sunset or connect with friends in an inviting outdoor setting, The Sunday Set provides an unmatched social atmosphere. Admission is completely free, and no reservations are required for entry. We invite you to join us this weekend to experience the best rooftop gathering in the Triangle. Visit our website for more details and event updates.