Raleigh-Durham Caged Bird Society 37th Annual Pet Bird Fair

Write Now! 2026 is an intensive one-day conference designed for fiction and nonfiction writers at any stage of their career. This multi-track event provides professional development, industry insight, and practical tools to help authors hone their craft and advance their publishing goals. The program features keynote presentations by Newbery-winning author Meg Medina and New York Times best-selling author Molly Guptill Manning. Attendees can participate in diverse breakout sessions covering topics such as emotional craft, freelance career management, romance writing, contract negotiation, and children's literature development. The schedule includes a full day of workshops, networking opportunities, and door prizes. Whether you are an aspiring author looking for guidance or an established writer seeking to refine your process, this event offers actionable advice in a focused, collaborative environment. Registration covers all conference activities, a hosted lunch, and access to all sessions. Join us to refine your writing skills and connect with a community of peers committed to the craft of storytelling. We look forward to seeing you there for a day of learning, inspiration, and professional growth.

Wild About Nature 2026 is a free community event in Holly Springs designed to celebrate the natural world and wildlife conservation. This gathering invites residents of all ages to explore the environment through hands on learning and direct engagement with experts in the field. Attendees can participate in live animal encounters featuring species from around the globe. The event schedule includes interactive games, educational stations, and activity zones hosted by local conservation leaders. These experiences provide a unique opportunity to learn about global ecosystems and local environmental initiatives in an accessible, face to face format. This event is perfect for families, students, and anyone with an interest in wildlife or environmental stewardship. The atmosphere is casual, welcoming, and intentionally educational. Whether you want to see exotic animals up close or discover ways to support local conservation efforts, this event offers something for every visitor. Join us in Holly Springs for this day of discovery and connection with the natural world. No tickets are required, and all activities are open to the general public throughout the day.

Overcome Fest IV is a one day hardcore and metalcore music festival showcasing regional and international talent. The event serves as a central hub for heavy music fans to gather and celebrate the evolution of the genre in a live setting. Attendees can expect high energy performances from a diverse lineup of established and emerging artists. Featured acts include Missing Link, Nasty, Cross of Disbelief, and the Raleigh based band One By One. The festival environment is designed for optimal sound quality and an immersive concert experience. Set times are scheduled to ensure every performer receives full stage production support throughout the day. This festival is specifically curated for fans of underground heavy music who appreciate community driven events. The atmosphere is intense, welcoming, and focused entirely on the live music experience. Whether you are a longtime follower of these bands or a newcomer to the hardcore scene, this event provides an excellent opportunity to support the artists and connect with fellow enthusiasts. Purchase your tickets in advance to secure your spot and join us for a full day of powerful performances.

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.

Champagne and Friends is an educational tasting event designed to broaden your appreciation for sparkling wines beyond the Champagne region. This class provides a comprehensive overview of global sparkling styles, helping you understand the history, production methods, and flavor profiles that define everything from Prosecco and Cava to international selections from places like Argentina and the United States. You will learn practical skills including how to interpret wine labels, proper storage techniques, and optimal serving methods. Chef Doreen Colondres joins the session to demonstrate professional pairing techniques and share ideas for cooking with sparkling wine. The experience includes expert-led tastings of various global varieties such as Cremant and Franciacorta, accompanied by curated hors d'oeuvres. This event is ideal for wine enthusiasts of all levels who want to gain confidence in selecting and serving sparkling wine. Whether you are looking to impress at your next gathering or simply enjoy a sophisticated social experience, you will leave with the knowledge to navigate the sparkling wine aisle with ease. Reserve your spot today to refine your palate and explore these exceptional global bubbles.

The Park Tour is a guided walking experience that highlights the diverse plants, animal life, and sustainable design elements integrated throughout the Museum Park. This program invites participants to connect with the local natural world while gaining a deeper understanding of fundamental biology and ecological principles. During this tour, guests examine various species and observe how the park maintains a balance between human design and natural systems. Participants will explore specific environmental features that demonstrate modern sustainable practices in action. This is a unique opportunity to view the museum landscape as a living laboratory for science and conservation efforts. This event is designed for attendees ages twelve and older. It offers an informative and accessible atmosphere for anyone curious about the intersection of nature and urban design. Space for each session is limited, so early registration is necessary to secure your spot. These tours are conducted annually during the spring and fall seasons, provided the weather conditions remain suitable for outdoor exploration. Please check the schedule and register online to join us for this walk.

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.

L Ecole French International School of Raleigh invites you to our Annual Fundraising Gala for Education. This nonprofit event gathers international families and community leaders to support academic excellence and celebrate our school community. The evening centers on the official launch of the 2026 to 2027 Classroom Grant Fund. This initiative provides vital resources for teacher led projects and enriching classroom experiences. Guests will enjoy community networking opportunities with local professionals and a diverse selection of live and silent auctions featuring unique items and services. This gala is an ideal environment for those looking to connect with a global community and invest in the future of local education. Whether you are a parent or a business professional, your attendance directly impacts our students and teachers. We encourage attendees to consider becoming sponsors or providing in kind donations to further enhance our collective impact. We look forward to hosting you for this special evening dedicated to fostering growth and academic achievement within our vibrant school community. Please join us for this meaningful occasion to support our shared mission of educational excellence and innovation.

The Raleigh Wine Shop is hosting its 15th anniversary celebration and fundraiser starting Monday May 11th. This week long event features the shop largest sale of the year with discounted wines available both in store and online to mark the milestone anniversary. Attendees can participate in daily wine tastings and support the community through a dedicated fundraiser for the Womens Center of Wake County. A portion of all bar sales throughout the week will be donated to the organization. The final celebration day includes coffee and bagel service in the morning followed by food popups from Alimentari and Locals Seafood. Guests can also enjoy beverage tastings featuring spritz and THC options alongside free wine tastings hosted by industry representatives from noon until evening. This event is designed for wine enthusiasts and community supporters who want to enjoy high quality drinks while contributing to a local cause. The atmosphere will be festive and welcoming throughout the day. We invite you to visit the shop to enjoy a glass or a bottle while helping us give back to our community.

The Minnick Family Endowment Music Festival is an outdoor community celebration dedicated to raising funds for the Minnick Family Endowment. This event brings together music lovers and community members for a full day of live performances and shared experiences to support a meaningful cause. Attendees will enjoy a wide variety of musical genres throughout the afternoon and evening. The lineup includes classic rock, country, blues, pop, bluegrass, and folk music. Fans of traditional jazz and dixieland will also find something to enjoy. On site food and beverage vendors will provide a range of refreshments available for purchase throughout the duration of the festival, ensuring a convenient experience for all guests. This festival is designed for families, friends, and community supporters who enjoy live music in a relaxed environment. The atmosphere is intended to be welcoming and energetic, making it an ideal way to spend a day outdoors while contributing to a local endowment. We invite you to join us for this day of entertainment and philanthropy. Please bring your friends and neighbors to participate in this special occasion and help us reach our fundraising goals.

The Raleigh Wine Shop is hosting its 15th anniversary celebration and fundraiser starting Monday May 11th. This week long event features the shop largest sale of the year with discounted wines available both in store and online to mark the milestone anniversary. Attendees can participate in daily wine tastings and support the community through a dedicated fundraiser for the Womens Center of Wake County. A portion of all bar sales throughout the week will be donated to the organization. The final celebration day includes coffee and bagel service in the morning followed by food popups from Alimentari and Locals Seafood. Guests can also enjoy beverage tastings featuring spritz and THC options alongside free wine tastings hosted by industry representatives from noon until evening. This event is designed for wine enthusiasts and community supporters who want to enjoy high quality drinks while contributing to a local cause. The atmosphere will be festive and welcoming throughout the day. We invite you to visit the shop to enjoy a glass or a bottle while helping us give back to our community.

The Strawberry Festival is a community celebration dedicated to honoring local farmers and the peak of the seasonal strawberry harvest. This event brings the region together to appreciate high quality produce while supporting local agriculture through an engaging and educational public gathering. Attendees can look forward to a variety of interactive experiences centered around the theme of fresh fruit. The schedule features guided strawberry tastings where participants can sample different local varieties. We are also hosting trivia sessions that test your knowledge of local history and farming practices. Families and children are well catered to with a dedicated zone featuring organized activities designed for younger guests. These elements combine to create a comprehensive experience that highlights the best of the current growing season. This festival is designed for residents and visitors of all ages who enjoy community events and fresh seasonal food. The atmosphere is casual, welcoming, and perfect for a day out with friends or family. We invite you to join us to celebrate the harvest and enjoy the local flavors. Please stay tuned for finalized scheduling details as we prepare for this event.

Park it at the Market is a community engagement program hosted by PONDER at Downtown Cary Park. This event offers an inclusive environment specifically designed for people living with dementia and their care partners to connect through shared experiences. Attendees will explore the sights, sounds, and flavors of a local farmers market. The program includes a guided food tasting session, interactive art-making, and a culinary demonstration. A major highlight is a horticulture chat led by Emmy-winning horticulturist Patrick McMillan, providing nature-based learning and engagement. These activities focus on multisensory stimulation and social interaction in an accessible outdoor setting. This program is tailored to provide a welcoming and supportive atmosphere for those navigating memory loss. It creates a space where attendees can share meaningful moments, enjoy laughter, and build community with others in similar situations. We invite you to join us for this unique opportunity to celebrate creativity and culture. Please register in advance to ensure your spot for this enriching experience and join our community as we enjoy a vibrant morning at the park.