North Carolina Poetry Society presents Whisks & Words

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.

Join a park naturalist for an educational guided hike through the local ecosystem. This event offers participants a unique opportunity to explore the trail system while learning about the native plants and animals that inhabit our protected park lands. During this guided experience, you will traverse diverse terrains as the naturalist points out significant ecological features and wildlife habitats. The session is designed to provide deeper insight into regional biology through direct observation and expert interpretation. Participants will gain a better understanding of the natural processes that sustain our environment and learn how to identify various local species in their natural setting. This hike is intended for nature enthusiasts and anyone interested in local ecology. We recommend this experience for individuals comfortable walking at least one mile on uneven paths. Please ensure you are prepared for the outing by wearing sturdy closed-toe shoes and carrying a full water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the trek. We invite you to join us for an informative morning outdoors where you can connect with nature, ask questions, and enjoy the scenery alongside an experienced professional who is dedicated to park conservation.

The Got to Be NC Festival is a three day community celebration hosted at the North Carolina State Fairgrounds. This annual event showcases the best of the state by highlighting local products, agriculture, and regional culture in one central location. Attendees can explore a vast array of exhibits featuring North Carolina made food, beverages, and crafts. The festival grounds host live musical performances, agricultural demonstrations, and interactive displays suitable for all ages. Visitors will find plenty of opportunities to sample local goods while learning about the industry and heritage that define the state. The layout ensures easy navigation through different vendor sections and entertainment areas. This event is designed for families, local residents, and visitors who want to experience authentic North Carolina hospitality. The atmosphere is casual, welcoming, and perfect for a weekend outing with friends. Admission to the festival and parking are both completely free for everyone. Plan your visit to support local businesses and enjoy a festive environment that celebrates the unique identity of North Carolina. We invite you to join the community for this comprehensive state showcase.

Let’s Make Maps is an educational program focused on the history and creation of cartography. Participants will explore how various maps have been constructed throughout history and apply these techniques by creating their own maps of the Prairie Ridge area. During the session, attendees will discover how mapping connects to global citizen science initiatives. You will learn practical ways to contribute to projects that monitor and conserve ecosystems. The experience involves a short walk of approximately one half mile to our outdoor classroom where we will conduct our mapping activities. This program bridges the gap between historical craft and modern environmental science, providing you with the tools to document the natural world. This event is perfect for anyone curious about geography or conservation efforts. We encourage participants of all skill levels to join us for this engaging outdoor experience. Please dress appropriately for the current weather conditions, as we will be walking to our site from the main building near the parking lot. We look forward to seeing you there for a productive and educational afternoon of mapping and environmental discovery.

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.