What to Do This Weekend
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Raleigh Wide Open Music Festival
Date and Time
Fri, Oct 2, 03:00 PM - 11:00 PM
Venue
100 Fayetteville Street, Raleigh
Address
100 Fayetteville Street, Raleigh, NC
(374.1 mi)
Price
FREE
Description
Experience the vibrant energy of the capital city at the upcoming Raleigh Wide Open Music Festival. This highly anticipated event transforms downtown into a bustling hub of excitement from October 1 through October 3, 2026. The celebration kicks off on Thursday with an exclusive party at The Corner at NC State Centennial Campus before moving to the iconic Fayetteville Street for two full days of festivities. This community-focused gathering offers an impressive lineup of live music performances across multiple stages, showcasing talented artists in an open-air environment.
Beyond the melodies, attendees can explore a diverse array of local art vendors, savor delicious offerings from food trucks, and enjoy refreshing selections at the beer gardens. Designed as a celebration for everyone, this inclusive street festival is entirely free to attend, requiring no tickets or reservations. It is the perfect opportunity to connect with neighbors and enjoy the best of Raleigh culture in a lively, welcoming atmosphere. We invite you to join us for this unforgettable weekend of music and community. For the most current schedule and event updates, please visit the official website at raleighwideopen.com.
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Featured Events
The best upcoming events you won’t want to miss
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Parents Night Out: Kids Laser Tag Night
at Battle House Laser Tag - Wake Forest, Raleigh
Four hours for them. Four hours for YOU.
Drop the kids off at Battle House Laser Tag for a night packed with laser tag, pizza, a movie, and more laser tag.
Meanwhile, you can go to dinner, catch a movie, run errands, enjoy a quiet house, or simply remember what it feels like to finish a sentence without being interrupted.
Details
Ages: 7 to 13
Time: 5 PM to 9 PM
Price: $49 per child
What's Included
-4 hours total
-Approximately 3 hours of Battle House Laser Tag
-Large slice of pizza and a drink
-Movie time during dinner, then more laser tag time
For Parents: Four glorious hours where parents do not have to entertain anyone
Reserve tickets at: https://ecom.roller.app/battlehousefayetteville/parentsnightout/en-us/products
368.9 mi
•
$49
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Safe Homes, Strong Families Resource Day
Abbotts Creek Community Center, 9950 Durant Road, Raleigh, NC 27614
Safe Homes, Strong Families Resource Day is a free community event presented by PR Home Care for older adults, family caregivers, and families who want to plan ahead and connect with trusted local resources before a crisis occurs.
Meet local professionals and learn about fall prevention, aging in place and home safety, dementia and caregiver support, planning, medication safety, home organization, and other resources that can support safer, more independent living.
Aging in Place North Carolina will provide a featured presentation, “How to Safely and Comfortably Age in the Home You Love.”
The event will also include community resources, giveaways, and complimentary light refreshments while supplies last.
Free and open to the public. Walk-ins are welcome.
369.6 mi
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Free
More Live Music & Concerts
Live concerts and music performances taking place in Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill including touring artists and local bands.
Oak City Salsa Social: Live Music and Dance Series
at Transfer Co. Food Hall, Raleigh,
Experience the vibrant energy of the Oak City Salsa Social at the beautiful Gipson Play Plaza in Dix Park, Raleigh. This dynamic live music and dance series invites community members to gather and enjoy the rhythmic sounds of talented local bands while learning and practicing salsa moves in a welcoming outdoor setting. Whether you are a seasoned dancer or looking to pick up a new hobby, this event provides the perfect atmosphere to connect with neighbors and celebrate our local culture.
These gatherings are completely free to the public, offering a fantastic opportunity to enjoy high quality entertainment at one of the city most scenic parks. Because these sessions are popular, we encourage all participants to secure their spot early. Online registration officially opens two weeks prior to each event date at noon. Please visit the Oak City Music Collective Facebook page for the latest updates and to access the registration links for upcoming dates. We look forward to seeing you on the dance floor for an evening of music and community spirit.
374.6 mi
•
FREE
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Live at The Bark Bar: Sam Trebing
at DCP Bark Bar, Cary
Live at The Bark Bar is a recurring pop-up music series hosted at a local neighborhood venue. This event provides a space for community members to enjoy professional live music in an informal, open-air setting.
Featured performer Sam Trebing brings years of experience as a band member to his current solo project. He performs a curated set list that blends country and Americana influences, covering a variety of songs ranging from classic tracks to modern hits. His solo acoustic format highlights his unique vocal style and instrument proficiency.
This event is designed for music lovers, pet owners, and anyone looking for a relaxed social outing. The venue offers a dog-friendly environment where guests can enjoy beverages while listening to local talent. It is an ideal setting for those who prefer an unpretentious atmosphere over traditional concert venues. If you appreciate live music and a casual social environment, this performance offers a great way to unwind. We encourage you to visit us for an evening of entertainment and local music.
369 mi
•
Free
No Raza, Gates of Endor, and Aleph Naught
at Chapel of Bones, West Raleigh
This event is a live extreme metal concert featuring three distinct acts performing at the Chapel of Bones. Attendees can expect a night focused on high intensity and heavy instrumentation across the death metal and aggressive metal genres.
Colombian death metal band No Raza headlines the evening with their signature blend of old-school brutality and modern precision. They are supported by Gates of Endor, who provide a heavy dose of dark and aggressive metal music. Aleph Naught completes the lineup, contributing to an evening defined by massive riffs and raw underground energy. The showcase highlights the technical skill and unrelenting performance styles of these three acts.
This concert is designed for fans of extreme metal and underground music who appreciate high-energy live performances. The atmosphere at the Chapel of Bones will be dark and loud, providing an ideal setting for a night of heavy music. If you enjoy crushing riffs and consistent sonic aggression, this is a show worth attending. Please ensure you secure your tickets in advance to guarantee entry to this night of underground metal.
374.4 mi
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$23.90
More Festivals
Festivals of all types happening across Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill.
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Wendell's Epic Mighty Con
at Wendell Community Center, Wendell
Wendell's Epic Mighty Con is a community fandom celebration hosted in Eastern Wake. The event gathers fans of comics, pop culture, and gaming for a two-day experience focused on creativity and local connection.
Attendees can participate in a variety of activities including browsing collectibles from specialized vendors and meeting professional creators. Highlights include a dedicated cosplay showcase and interactive gaming sessions. Food trucks will be available on-site throughout the event to accommodate guests. The celebration begins with the Masquerade on Main Street kick-off party on Friday, September 18, 2026, starting at 6pm. The main convention follows on Saturday, September 19, from 10am to 5pm at the Wendell Community Center.
This event is designed for individuals and families who enjoy comics and geek culture. The atmosphere is welcoming and geared toward fans of all ages looking to engage with their community in a creative environment. Whether you are a casual fan or a dedicated collector, this gathering provides a unique space to celebrate shared interests. Plan to join us in Wendell for a memorable weekend of fandom and fun.
383 mi
•
VIP, $25; Adult General Admission, $8; Kids 12 & Under, Free
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Wendell's Epic Mighty Con
at Wendell Community Center, Wendell
Wendell's Epic Mighty Con is a community focused fandom celebration held at the Wendell Community Center. The event brings together comic book fans, collectors, and families for a day dedicated to pop culture and creative expression in eastern Wake County.
Attendees can explore a variety of offerings including comic books, diverse collectibles, and vendor booths. The program features local creators showcasing their work and interactive gaming stations. Food trucks will be on site throughout the Saturday event to provide dining options for guests. The experience begins with the Masquerade on Main Street kick off party on Friday, September 18, 2026, starting at 6pm. The main convention follows on Saturday, September 19, from 10am to 5pm.
This event is designed for all ages and encourages participation from casual fans and dedicated enthusiasts alike. The atmosphere is intended to be welcoming and inclusive, providing a space for the community to engage with various fandoms. Join us for a full day of excitement and creativity. Mark your calendars and prepare to celebrate with fellow enthusiasts in the heart of Wendell.
383 mi
•
VIP, $25; Adult General Admission, $8; Kids 12 & Under, Free
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Fall Wake Forest HerbFest
530 S. White Street, Wake Forest, NC 27587
The Fall Wake Forest HerbFest is an outdoor seasonal community event held in downtown Wake Forest. It celebrates gardening and local culture by bringing together experts and enthusiasts for a weekend of education and entertainment.
Attendees can explore a wide variety of local vendors offering seasonal plants and garden goods. The event schedule features live music performances that provide a backdrop for the day. Participants may also engage in garden demonstrations and mini classes designed to teach practical horticultural skills. These sessions are structured to provide actionable advice for both novice and experienced gardeners looking to improve their outdoor spaces.
This festival is intended for anyone with an interest in gardening, local crafts, or community engagement. The atmosphere is designed to be welcoming and informative, making it an ideal destination for individuals and families seeking to enjoy the autumn season. We encourage everyone to visit the downtown area to discover new plants, learn from knowledgeable instructors, and support local vendors. Join us this weekend to gain gardening inspiration and participate in this seasonal tradition.
368.2 mi
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Free
More Free Events
Free events happening across Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill including community gatherings, live entertainment, public programs, and seasonal celebrations.
Oak City Salsa Social: Live Music and Dance Series
at Transfer Co. Food Hall, Raleigh,
Experience the vibrant energy of the Oak City Salsa Social at the beautiful Gipson Play Plaza in Dix Park, Raleigh. This dynamic live music and dance series invites community members to gather and enjoy the rhythmic sounds of talented local bands while learning and practicing salsa moves in a welcoming outdoor setting. Whether you are a seasoned dancer or looking to pick up a new hobby, this event provides the perfect atmosphere to connect with neighbors and celebrate our local culture.
These gatherings are completely free to the public, offering a fantastic opportunity to enjoy high quality entertainment at one of the city most scenic parks. Because these sessions are popular, we encourage all participants to secure their spot early. Online registration officially opens two weeks prior to each event date at noon. Please visit the Oak City Music Collective Facebook page for the latest updates and to access the registration links for upcoming dates. We look forward to seeing you on the dance floor for an evening of music and community spirit.
374.6 mi
•
FREE
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Total Tot Time: Free Play Program for Kids
at W.D. Hill Recreation Center, Durham,
Discover a wonderful opportunity for early childhood development and community connection at Total Tot Time. Hosted by Durham Parks and Recreation at the W.D. Hill Recreation Center, this vibrant program invites children ages zero to five along with their parents and caregivers for two hours of active play. Running every Monday and Wednesday morning through December 16, 2026, this initiative provides a dedicated gym space where little ones can explore, learn, and grow through movement.
Our program focuses on fostering essential socialization skills, allowing children to interact with their peers in a safe and supportive environment. Whether your child enjoys playing with a parachute, navigating through colorful tunnels, jumping rope, or engaging in a friendly game of bowling, there is something to spark every imagination. This inclusive environment encourages parents to bond with their children while connecting with other local families. No prior registration is necessary, so feel free to drop in and join the fun whenever your schedule allows. We look forward to seeing you and your little ones in the gym for an energetic morning of play.
354.2 mi
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Artful Story Time: Under Construction
at North Carolina Museum of Art, West Raleigh
Artful Story Time is an interactive program that combines children literature with visual art appreciation. This recurring event invites families to explore the museum collection through active storytelling, listening, and movement, providing a unique educational experience for young visitors and their caregivers. This month features a construction theme. Participants will examine the new Please Be Seated sculpture in the park and observe the onsite construction activities. The session includes a special guest appearance by a construction team member who will explain how various tools, trucks, and heavy machinery work. Attendees will gain a behind the scenes look at the museum grounds while engaging with themes of building and design. This event is designed for children who enjoy active learning and hands on exploration. The atmosphere is energetic and encourages curiosity about both art and the world of construction. We recommend wearing comfortable clothing as we will move between gallery spaces and outdoor viewing areas. Space is limited, so please register in advance to secure your spot for this unique educational session.
370.3 mi
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A Halloween Mail Adventure for Triangle Families
A screen-free Halloween activity that helps kids ages 5-10 create and send meaningful mail.
Get the Halloween Postcard Kit •Hand-picked by Raleigh Parent editors
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