Queen Bee Bash

Experience the joy of literacy combined with the beauty of the outdoors this May throughout the Wake County Parks system. Our StoryWalk events invite families and readers of all ages to engage with beloved children stories while enjoying a refreshing nature walk. This unique program transforms park trails into outdoor reading galleries, allowing participants to enjoy literature page by page as they navigate through scenic landscapes. Throughout the month, various park locations will feature diverse titles, ranging from tales about nature and wildlife to stories celebrating creativity and kindness. Whether you are strolling through Oak View or exploring the trails at Beech Bluff, these installations provide a wonderful opportunity for physical activity and intellectual engagement. We encourage families to visit our various park locations to discover these immersive reading experiences for themselves. Please check the official park operating hours to plan your visit accordingly and make the most of this collaborative initiative. Join us today for a peaceful walk, discover a new favorite book, and enjoy the refreshing atmosphere of our local parks. We look forward to seeing you on the trails this May as you embark on these literary adventures.

Experience the extraordinary at the Spring Open Nursery and Garden Days held at the prestigious Juniper Level Botanic Garden and Plant Delights Nursery in Raleigh. Spanning 28 acres, this botanical wonderland features over 30,000 unique species of plants, including rare perennials, exotic specimens, and unusual trees collected from global expeditions across China, South Africa, and beyond. This is an unparalleled opportunity to explore a world class display garden that is typically closed to the general public. Visitors are invited to wander through extensive, meticulously curated grounds to gain inspiration for their own home landscapes or shop for rare plants within the onsite greenhouses. Whether you are a dedicated horticulturalist, a casual gardener, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of nature, you will find endless wonder in these diverse collections. Admission to the gardens and parking are completely free for all guests during these open weekend events. We look forward to welcoming you to this educational and visually stunning environment. Plan your visit today and immerse yourself in the vibrant beauty of our spring garden display.

Prepare for a flavorful weekend at the Kids Food Festival held at Downtown Cary Park. This engaging event invites families to discover the joy of balanced nutrition through hands-on activities, live entertainment, and community-focused explorations. Children can participate in interactive cooking workshops, join exciting scavenger hunts, and enjoy a variety of delicious discoveries across the park grounds. This festival serves as a vibrant platform to educate young chefs about the importance of healthy eating in a fun and welcoming environment. General admission to the festivities is completely free, making it an accessible opportunity for all members of the community to enjoy a day of outdoor learning and entertainment. While many activities are provided at no cost, please note that the specialized James Beard Foundation Future Foodies Classes require a separate registration fee. We invite you to bring your family to Downtown Cary Park on May 9 and 10, between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. Secure your spot now and join us for this unique culinary celebration where every participant can whip up something new and learn about the path to better food choices.

Experience an unforgettable celebration at the Carolina Inn as we host our highly anticipated annual Mother's Day Brunch. This sophisticated dining event invites you and your loved ones to indulge in an exquisite feast meticulously prepared by our Executive Chef Jeremy Blankenship. Our culinary team has thoughtfully curated a menu that celebrates the vibrant bounty of seasonal favorites designed to delight every palate in your party. Whether you are honoring a devoted mother or celebrating a recent graduate, our historic venue provides the perfect backdrop for creating cherished memories with family and friends. Our dedicated hospitality staff is committed to ensuring a seamless experience within the elegant setting of our grand ballrooms and restaurant. We invite you to relax and enjoy the warm atmosphere in the heart of Chapel Hill. Space is limited for this special occasion so we encourage you to secure your reservation today to guarantee your preferred seating time. For parties larger than twelve guests please contact our team directly to make arrangements. We look forward to welcoming you to this premier culinary celebration this season.

Celebrate the extraordinary women in your life this Mother Day with an exquisite buffet experience at the Grand Ballroom of The Westin Raleigh-Durham. We invite you to gather with family and friends to enjoy an unhurried celebration centered around authentic wood fired cooking and the warm, inviting spirit of a traditional Italian table. Our extensive culinary spread transitions seamlessly from morning favorites to midday indulgence. Guests can begin their journey at the made to order Farmhouse Omelet Station before exploring the La Pasta Station, which features handmade spaghetti and baked rigatoni. The Carving Station highlights herb crusted prime rib, while the Coastal Market showcases fresh jumbo shrimp and wood fired Atlantic salmon. Complement your meal with selections from our spring salad garden and conclude your experience with premium gelato from the Geluna Gelato cart. This vibrant atmosphere provides the perfect backdrop for creating lasting memories with your loved ones. Do not miss this opportunity to honor mom in style. Please visit our website today to secure your reservation, as space is limited for this special holiday event. We look forward to welcoming you to an unforgettable celebration.

Celebrate Mother's Day this year by gifting the special woman in your life an unforgettable outdoor experience at TreeRunner Raleigh Adventure Park. We are excited to offer a special promotion where you can buy one climbing ticket and receive a second ticket for Mom absolutely free. This is the perfect opportunity to create lasting memories while navigating our exciting aerial forest courses together. Our park features thrilling obstacles designed for all skill levels, ensuring a fun and challenging day for everyone involved. Whether you are climbing through the canopy or cheering each other on from below, the atmosphere at TreeRunner is designed to foster connection and joy. Please note that this offer is valid exclusively on three hour aerial forest climbing tickets. To ensure a safe and enjoyable visit, please remember that gloves are required for all participants. You may bring your own garden gloves or purchase a pair directly at our park. We encourage you to visit our website to secure your spot for this exciting weekend celebration. Join us Saturday or Sunday and make this Mother's Day truly extraordinary with an adventure among the trees.

Join us for an energetic morning of discovery at the Little Sprouts Spring Event held at the beautiful Lake Lynn. This seasonal celebration is specifically designed for curious pre-k learners between the ages of three and five, offering a wonderful opportunity for families to connect with the wonders of the natural world. Children will engage in creative hands-on activities, seasonal crafts, and an exciting nature scavenger hunt that encourages exploration of the outdoors while supplies last. We are delighted to partner with the Leesville Library to enhance this experience, featuring a special library craft session alongside two dedicated story times scheduled for 10:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. These sessions aim to inspire a love of reading and nature in our youngest participants. While registration is encouraged to help us prepare, it is not required for attendance. We invite all families to come out and embrace the vibrant energy of the season with us. Please visit the park entrance to check in upon arrival and prepare for a morning filled with learning, laughter, and community fun.

Experience the grand finale of the Sweetwater Town Center Spring Concert Series on Friday, May 15, 2026. This highly anticipated event features an evening of incredible live music performed on the picturesque Market Square Lawn in Apex, North Carolina. The concert kicks off at 5 p.m. and continues until 8 p.m., showcasing the talented Jamey Meeter followed by headliner Julia Golden. Julia Golden, a celebrated artist known for her appearance on The Voice and her status as a three time Best of the Pines champion, promises an unforgettable performance for music enthusiasts of all ages. We invite the local community to gather for this vibrant celebration of local talent and outdoor entertainment. Please bring your lawn chairs and blankets to ensure a comfortable viewing experience as you enjoy the spring weather. While outside coolers are not permitted at this venue, attendees can enjoy the welcoming atmosphere of the town center. Do not miss your chance to be part of this wonderful musical experience. Mark your calendars, gather your friends, and join us for an evening of melody under the stars.

Experience a season of outdoor joy at Phillips Farms Market and Fun Park. Our farm provides a vibrant escape for families looking to engage with nature through a variety of unique attractions. Guests can enjoy our expansive pedal cart track, bounce pillows, and the Pint Sized Pasture petting zoo, which offers a memorable hands-on experience for children of all ages. Whether you are navigating the corn box or taking a ride on the cow train, every moment is designed to foster community spirit and outdoor recreation. We are thrilled to welcome visitors every Saturday and Sunday to explore our scenic grounds and participate in our rotating weekend special events. Our seasonal calendar is packed with excitement, ranging from strawberry and peach festivals to interactive community days. We invite you to visit us and create lasting memories with your loved ones in a fun, safe, and engaging environment. Tickets are conveniently available on site at the main ticket booth. Join us this season for fresh air, local charm, and endless entertainment. We look forward to seeing you at the farm soon for a truly unforgettable outdoor adventure.