Piedmont Farm Animal Refuge: Tour and Explore

Get ready for a feline extravaganza as the TICA Time Cat Show descends upon the Dorton Arena at the North Carolina State Fairgrounds on April 11 and 12, 2026. This two-day celebration brings together cat enthusiasts for an immersive experience dedicated to our four-legged friends. Witness pedigree cats competing against breed standards while household pets are showcased for their unique beauty and charming temperaments. It is the perfect opportunity to learn about different breeds and admire the grace of these incredible animals. Beyond the competition, attendees can browse a variety of vendors offering premium kitty toys and specialty pet supplies. For those looking to expand their family, the event features local shelters with cats available for immediate adoption. You can even enjoy a discount on admission by bringing a donation of cat food to support local rescues. This is a must-attend gathering for anyone who shares a passion for cats and community support. Join us in Raleigh for an unforgettable weekend of fun and advocacy. We look forward to seeing you at the fairgrounds for this celebration of feline spirit.

Join fellow feline enthusiasts for the highly anticipated TICA Time Cat Show taking place on April 11 and 12, 2026. This exciting event will be hosted at the spacious Dorton Arena located at the NC State Fairgrounds in Raleigh, North Carolina. Attendees are invited to enjoy a weekend celebrating all things feline, featuring professional pedigree cat evaluations alongside showcases for household pets judged on their unique charm and temperament. Beyond the competition, this event offers a fantastic opportunity to support our furry friends in need. Local shelters will be in attendance with wonderful cats available for adoption, making it the perfect time to find a new companion. You can also explore a variety of vendors offering premium kitty toys and specialty pet items. Guests can receive a one dollar discount on admission by bringing a cat food donation to support local animals. Whether you are a dedicated breeder or simply a passionate animal lover, this event promises an engaging experience for the entire family. Mark your calendars, bring a donation, and prepare for a purr-fect weekend in Raleigh.

Join us for Unleashed’s Annual Spring Fling, an exciting community celebration dedicated to supporting animals in need. This vibrant event takes place on Sunday, April 26, 2026, from 12 to 6 p.m. at the scenic Koka Booth Amphitheatre in Cary, North Carolina. Admission and parking are entirely free, making this the perfect afternoon outing for families and their beloved canine companions. Attendees can enjoy a lively atmosphere filled with live music and a variety of local vendors. One of the main highlights is the much anticipated Doggie Easter Egg Hunt, which offers great prizes for participants. Please note that a 25 dollar donation is requested to join the egg hunt, and we highly recommend pre-registering online to secure your spot. Whether you are looking to meet adorable adoptable dogs and cats from various rescue groups or simply want to enjoy a beautiful day outdoors, there is something for everyone to enjoy at this gathering. We look forward to seeing you there to help us make a meaningful difference for local rescue animals.

Experience the wonder of nature with the North Carolina Zoo Seasonal Day Camp series this spring. Designed to inspire curiosity, our programs provide an immersive, hands-on learning environment for students of all ages. Whether exploring the science of camouflage, the unique traits of diverse wildlife, or the legends of mythical creatures, your child will engage with educational themes in a fun, supportive setting. We are particularly proud to offer our specialized Kidzu Camp, which provides a tailored, sensory-sensitive experience for students in grades 3 through 8, ensuring that every participant can thrive. Our camps are held throughout the second week of April, with specific sessions curated for grades kindergarten through eighth. Each day offers a fresh adventure that keeps children active, engaged, and connected to the natural world. These daily programs are designed to be both educational and unforgettable. Space is limited, and we encourage families to visit our website to view full session details and secure a spot for their child. Join us rain or shine to create lasting memories and foster a deep appreciation for the environment at our beautiful facility.

Join us for an unforgettable morning of exploration and wonder at The Shepherd's Church Spring Story Time at the Farm. This event is specifically designed for families with children between the ages of 2 and 10 who are looking to connect with nature and enjoy meaningful community time. We invite you to Stoney Acres on April 9 at 10 am for an engaging session that brings stories to life in a beautiful rural setting. Participants will have the opportunity to listen to interactive readings, interact with friendly goats, and learn about farm life through hands-on activities like egg collecting. In addition to these adventures, guests are welcome to purchase a variety of farm fresh products during their visit to support local agriculture. This is a wonderful way to welcome the spring season while making lasting memories with your children. Spaces for this special farm experience are limited, so please ensure you register early. To reserve your spot, please send an email containing the names and ages of your children. Registration closes on April 6, and payment will be processed upon your arrival via cash or card.

Experience the vibrant spirit of local culture at the Durham Beer and Banjos music series. Hosted every Thursday evening from 6 to 8 p.m., this recurring event brings the community together at the beautiful Old Mill Farm in Durham, North Carolina. Music lovers can enjoy a curated lineup featuring talented musicians performing the very best of roots, bluegrass, Americana, and folk music in a relaxed outdoor setting. This weekly gathering is the perfect way to unwind with friends and family while supporting local artists. Whether you are a dedicated fan of traditional acoustic sounds or simply looking for an engaging way to spend your Thursday night, this event offers an unforgettable atmosphere. Best of all, admission is completely free for all attendees, making it an accessible experience for everyone in the region. Be sure to check the official Durham Beer and Banjos Facebook page each week to see which band is performing. Grab a seat, enjoy the refreshments at Old Mill Farm, and join us for an evening of exceptional live music and community connection.

Join the town of Knightdale and the East Wake Regional Library for our fourth annual Creek Week StoryWalk at the beautiful Environmental Park. This interactive community initiative invites visitors to immerse themselves in nature while engaging with literacy through the featured book A Place for Rain by Michelle Schaub. This unique experience is perfectly designed for families, educators, and nature enthusiasts looking for an enriching outdoor activity that fosters both learning and local exploration. The StoryWalk will be officially available for public viewing from March 12 through April 22, 2026. As you navigate the trail, we encourage guests to explore the educational exchange box to learn more about our local watershed and environmental conservation efforts. This self-guided experience allows you to enjoy the park at your own pace during our standard operating hours from dawn until dusk. We invite you to gather your friends and family to participate in this wonderful blend of literature and fresh air. Come visit the Environmental Park, take a refreshing walk, and celebrate the season with us through this creative outdoor reading adventure.

Experience the wonder of nature with the North Carolina Zoo Seasonal Day Camp series this spring. Designed to inspire curiosity, our programs provide an immersive, hands-on learning environment for students of all ages. Whether exploring the science of camouflage, the unique traits of diverse wildlife, or the legends of mythical creatures, your child will engage with educational themes in a fun, supportive setting. We are particularly proud to offer our specialized Kidzu Camp, which provides a tailored, sensory-sensitive experience for students in grades 3 through 8, ensuring that every participant can thrive. Our camps are held throughout the second week of April, with specific sessions curated for grades kindergarten through eighth. Each day offers a fresh adventure that keeps children active, engaged, and connected to the natural world. These daily programs are designed to be both educational and unforgettable. Space is limited, and we encourage families to visit our website to view full session details and secure a spot for their child. Join us rain or shine to create lasting memories and foster a deep appreciation for the environment at our beautiful facility.

Experience the magic of literature integrated with the beauty of nature at the JC Raulston Arboretum Garden Story Walk. Running from April 4 through April 12, this unique self-guided experience invites visitors of all ages to stroll through our vibrant gardens while following an enchanting story displayed page by page along the pathways. It is a wonderful way to enjoy the fresh air, appreciate seasonal blooms, and engage with storytelling in a serene outdoor setting. Designed to be flexible and accessible, the walk allows you to move at your own pace without the pressure of a set schedule. Most participants find that the journey takes between thirty minutes and one hour to complete, making it a perfect activity for families, couples, or solo visitors looking for a mindful afternoon. Detailed instructions are available at the Visitor Center to help you locate the starting point of the current featured book. We invite you to visit the Arboretum during our regular open hours to participate in this delightful community project. Pack your comfortable walking shoes and join us for an inspiring walk through our living exhibits.