Pay What You Can Farm Stand and Wine and Weeds at Raleigh City Farm

CHILL ACT North Carolina Special Needs & Homeschool Expo is a free community event bringing families together with local providers, educators, therapists, community organizations, and resources supporting children with autism, special needs, and homeschool families. Join us on Saturday, August 29, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM at the Durham Convention Center. Families can explore valuable local resources, meet therapy and educational providers, and enjoy a welcoming day filled with activities for children. Event highlights include: • Free developmental & pre-autism screenings • Therapy, education & community resources • Balloon art • Face painting • Bounce house • Petting zoo • Art exhibition featuring neurodiverse children • Local vendors and family resources Admission is FREE for families. Register for free at www.chillactexpo.com Come connect, learn, explore resources, and enjoy a fun-filled afternoon with the North Carolina special needs and homeschool community.

FREE Family Fest in Raleigh — Saturday, September 12! Looking for a full day of family fun, creativity, connection, and outdoor adventure? Join us for the 3rd Annual Family Fest at Lakeside Retreats! Optional overnight Camping 📅 Saturday, September 12, 2026 ⏰ 8:00 AM–9:00 PM 📍 4521 Mial Plantation Road, Raleigh, NC 27610 🎟️ FREE admission Enjoy a day filled with: 🔥 Fire show 🎨 Art activities 🥋 Martial arts class 🫧 Bubbles 🧘 Yoga and sound bath 🌲 Forest bathing 🏕️ S’mores and optional overnight camping 🍴 Food trucks and vendors 💛 Sensory yurt 🎤 Guest speakers 🏆 Tug of war …and so much more!

Experience the vibrant community atmosphere at the Carrboro Farmers Market, held on the historic Carrboro Town Commons. This bustling hub connects local families with fresh, sustainably sourced goods from farmers and artisans located within a 50-mile radius. Throughout the year, the market transforms into an educational and entertaining space featuring the Market Bunch program, which offers free activities for children every Wednesday focused on agriculture, arts and crafts, and healthy eating. Beyond the weekly offerings, the market hosts a series of engaging seasonal celebrations. From the spring excitement of Kids Seedling Day and the delightful Strawberry Jamboree to the flavorful Tomato Day and the festive Vendor Halloween Costume Contest, there is always something new to discover. These events provide unique opportunities to learn about local food sources while enjoying live music, vendor specials, and interactive community programs. We invite you and your family to join us this season to support local growers and participate in our diverse lineup of community programming. Please visit our website or follow our social media channels for the most current schedule of events and updates.

Experience the vibrant spirit of North Carolina at the Saturdays in Saxapahaw concert series. Held outside the iconic Haw River Ballroom, this recurring event brings the community together every Saturday from May 2 through August 29, 2026. Guests are invited to enjoy an eclectic lineup of live musical performances starting at 6 p.m. set against a beautiful outdoor backdrop. Beyond the music, attendees can explore a bustling farmers market and savor diverse offerings from local food trucks from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Whether you are a local resident or visiting the region, this event offers the perfect opportunity to relax, connect with friends, and enjoy the lively atmosphere. The kick-off event on May 2 features the extended Haw River Festival from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Admission is entirely free, though voluntary donations are greatly appreciated to support the ongoing efforts of the organizers. Please remember that dogs are not permitted at this event. Make sure to clear your calendar and join us for an unforgettable season of music and local culture.

Experience the vibrant Black Farmers' Market in Durham, a premier community destination dedicated to celebrating and supporting Black farmers and local business owners. This event serves as a vital platform for entrepreneurs who have historically faced systemic challenges in the agricultural industry. By participating, attendees play an essential role in fostering economic equity while enjoying an exceptional selection of fresh, locally grown produce and artisan goods. It is a wonderful opportunity to connect with your neighbors, learn about the significance of sustainable family farms, and contribute to a more inclusive local economy. The market operates on a rotating schedule between Durham and Raleigh, ensuring broad access for community members across the Triangle. Whether you are looking for seasonal vegetables, unique handmade items, or simply want to support a great cause, there is something for everyone to enjoy at this inclusive gathering. We invite you to bring your family and friends to experience the energy and warmth of this collective effort. Visit the Black Farmers' Market Facebook page to check the latest schedule and confirm upcoming locations. Come out this Sunday to show your support and celebrate the hard work of our community members.

Experience the unique intersection of urban agriculture and community connection at Raleigh City Farm during our weekly Wine plus Weeds gatherings. Located on a vibrant one acre site in downtown Raleigh, this event invites farm friends to steward our land while learning about regenerative agriculture and sustainable plant care. Whether you are a seasoned gardener or a curious beginner, this is a wonderful opportunity to deepen your knowledge of local farming practices while making meaningful new connections within the community. Each session takes place every Wednesday from April through October. We provide a welcoming space where you can get your hands dirty, help maintain our beautiful site, and enjoy a complimentary splash of wine or a non-alcoholic beverage provided by Wine Authorities. This is a recurring invitation to relax, learn, and contribute to the growth of the next generation of farmers. Capacity is limited for these popular sessions, so please visit our website to sign up ahead of time and reserve your spot. We look forward to seeing you at the farm this season.

Experience the charm of country life at Haven Farm located at 8521 Buffaloe Road in Knightdale, North Carolina. We invite you to join us for our recurring Front Porch Fridays, taking place every Friday evening from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. through October 30, 2026. This wonderful community gathering offers a relaxing atmosphere where friends and families can unwind and enjoy the rustic beauty of our farm setting. Best of all, attendance for these events is completely free for everyone. For those looking for an extra touch of adventure, join us on the first Friday of each month for our special free campouts. Simply pack your tent and gear to enjoy an overnight stay under the stars, followed by a refreshing cup of coffee at our farm shop the next morning. It is the perfect opportunity for families to create lasting memories together in a peaceful environment. Be sure to follow our official Facebook page for the latest updates regarding weather adjustments or event news. We look forward to seeing you at the farm soon for an unforgettable evening under the open sky.

Experience the charm of country life at the Sunrise Community Farm Center, located in the beautiful Chapel Hill area. Our weekly Open Farm event provides a welcoming environment for guests of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities to connect with nature and animals. Rain or shine, our facility ensures a comfortable visit with plenty of covered, weather proofed areas for everyone to enjoy throughout the entire year. Whether you are seeking a peaceful weekend outing or an educational adventure for the family, our farm offers a unique space to explore and unwind. Take your experience to the next level by reserving a pony or horse ride, adding a memorable highlight to your visit. General admission is available for eight dollars, while ride packages are offered for eighteen dollars. We encourage you to visit our website to secure your tickets in advance, though walk-ins are always welcome. Join our vibrant community this Saturday between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. to discover the wonders of farm life. We look forward to welcoming you to the farm for an unforgettable day of outdoor exploration and community fun.

Experience the vibrant beauty of the Chatham Mills Pollinator Paradise Garden in Pittsboro, North Carolina. This impressive landscape serves as a sanctuary for local biodiversity, featuring over 240 species of perennials, trees, shrubs, vines, and grasses. With approximately 85 percent of the flora native to the region, the garden provides a vital habitat for bees, butterflies, hummingbirds, and various other essential pollinators. It is a true testament to the importance of sustainable gardening practices. Visitors are invited to join an educational guided tour led by experts to learn more about the delicate balance of our local ecosystems. These tours last ninety minutes and offer a deep dive into the plants that nourish our environment. While the garden is open to the public daily, these specialized guided sessions require prior registration to ensure an intimate and informative experience for all attendees. This is a wonderful opportunity to connect with nature and gain practical insights into conservation. Please secure your spot through the official registration link to join us for an inspiring morning session this summer season.

Nature Stories at NCMA is a recurring family program that combines storytelling with outdoor exploration. The event aims to connect young children with the natural world through literature and guided discovery across the museum campus. Participants begin each session with a featured nature themed story. Following the reading, attendees engage in hands on activities designed to reinforce the themes presented in the book. The program often transitions into guided walks through the museum grounds, allowing families to observe local wildlife and plants in their natural setting. These interactive experiences turn abstract concepts into tangible lessons. This free program is specifically designed for children age seven and younger, though all are welcome to attend. Because portions of the experience take place outdoors, attendees should arrive dressed appropriately for current weather conditions. Most walking paths are accessible for strollers. We invite you to join us for a morning of learning, movement, and outdoor engagement. Please prepare for a short walk as we explore the diverse environment surrounding the Art Museum. We look forward to seeing your family there.

Nature Stories at NCMA is a recurring family program that combines storytelling with outdoor exploration. The event aims to connect young children with the natural world through literature and guided discovery across the museum campus. Participants begin each session with a featured nature themed story. Following the reading, attendees engage in hands on activities designed to reinforce the themes presented in the book. The program often transitions into guided walks through the museum grounds, allowing families to observe local wildlife and plants in their natural setting. These interactive experiences turn abstract concepts into tangible lessons. This free program is specifically designed for children age seven and younger, though all are welcome to attend. Because portions of the experience take place outdoors, attendees should arrive dressed appropriately for current weather conditions. Most walking paths are accessible for strollers. We invite you to join us for a morning of learning, movement, and outdoor engagement. Please prepare for a short walk as we explore the diverse environment surrounding the Art Museum. We look forward to seeing your family there.