Out! Raleigh Pride Festival

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.

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.

Join the Orange County community for a solemn and respectful tribute to honor the brave men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our nation. The annual Orange County Veterans Memorial Day Service will take place on Monday, May 25, 2026, from 8:45 a.m. to 10:15 a.m. at the Veterans Memorial Site in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. This meaningful ceremony features a distinguished lineup of local leaders, military representatives, and guests, including an address by Secretary Jocelyn Mitnaul Mallette of the North Carolina Department of Military and Veterans Affairs. The program includes the posting of colors, the laying of a memorial wreath, and special recognitions for Gold Star Families and Purple Heart recipients. It is a time for reflection, gratitude, and community unity as we recognize those who served in the armed forces. Refreshments will be provided for all attendees following the ceremony. We invite residents and visitors alike to gather at 2501 Homestead Road to pay their respects and observe this significant holiday. Please visit our website for more information on how you can participate in this important community event.

Join the Apex community for a meaningful and moving tribute during the annual Apex Memorial Day Ceremony. Held at the historic Apex Fire Station 1, this event offers a time to honor and remember the brave United States military personnel who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our nation. This gathering is a vital part of the local calendar, bringing together public safety officials, Town Council members, and residents for a collective moment of reflection and deep respect. Visitors are also encouraged to experience the town Service Memorial, a stunning landmark featuring a steel beam recovered from the World Trade Center. Surrounded by engraved commemorative bricks and a tranquil seating area, the site provides a perfect environment for quiet contemplation. This ceremony serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience and gratitude that define our community spirit. We invite everyone to join us this May to pay their respects and reflect on the legacy of our fallen heroes. Please visit our website for additional details on how to participate in this commemorative event and other local observances.

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 Rocky Horror Picture Show is a cult classic cinematic experience presented at The Rialto theatre in Raleigh. This event combines a high-energy screening of the iconic film with a professional live shadow cast performance. It serves as a staple of the local arts scene and invites fans to celebrate this unique tradition in a historic venue. Attendees can expect an interactive experience featuring the Low Down Cheap Little Punks as they perform alongside the movie. The cast brings the story to life through elaborate costumes, choreography, and audience engagement throughout the show. Expect a lively environment where the line between the film and the stage fades, creating a dynamic and immersive atmosphere for everyone in attendance. This event is perfect for fans of cult cinema, musical theater enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a memorable night out in Raleigh. The production welcomes both long-time devotees and first-time viewers to participate in the tradition. Tickets sell quickly for these screenings, so we encourage you to book your seats in advance to ensure your spot for this quintessential local performance.

Pop That Party is a vibrant pre-Pride celebration taking place on May 30th from 9 PM to 1 AM. This event serves as the official kickoff for the upcoming Pride season, providing an energetic space for the community to gather and celebrate before the main festivities begin. The entire venue will feature a pink-themed atmosphere, complete with specialized lighting and decor. Guests can expect a high-energy environment focused on dancing and social connection. The event is designed to create a bold and inclusive space where attendees can express themselves freely through fashion and movement while enjoying a curated selection of music and entertainment. This party is ideal for anyone looking to connect with others and celebrate love and freedom in a festive setting. Whether you are an active member of the community or simply want to experience the electric atmosphere of Pride season, this event offers a welcoming space for all. To secure your attendance, please purchase tickets through the official registration link provided online. We look forward to seeing everyone there for this memorable start to the season.

Pride Stories is an evening community event dedicated to celebrating the LGBTQ+ community and their supporters. The gathering focuses on contemplation, exploration, and fun to honor diverse experiences through shared narratives and local engagement. This event provides a meaningful space for connection within a welcoming environment. Attendees can participate in several curated activities throughout the evening. The event features a guided story walk titled Between the Lines by artist Marcos Severi. Guests can also engage with a pride themed craft station hosted by Bear Hands, visit a pop up dog booth presented by Freedom Ride Rescue, and enjoy sweet treats provided by Groovy Duck. Each activity offers a unique way to participate in the celebration. This event is designed for individuals of all ages who want to support and celebrate the LGBTQ+ community. The atmosphere is inclusive, relaxed, and perfect for families, friends, and local residents looking to connect with neighbors. We invite everyone to join us for this engaging evening of reflection and community spirit. Please plan to arrive early to experience all the scheduled activities and amenities throughout the event space.