Reflections: Virtual Tour

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.

Discover your creative potential at Artspace, a premier visual arts center located in the heart of Raleigh at 201 East Davie Street. We invite community members of all ages to engage with our vibrant artistic environment through a variety of unique programs. Whether you are seeking inspiration during our First Friday events or looking for hands-on experience, there is something here for everyone to enjoy in a welcoming and inclusive space. Join us for our recurring Open Studio sessions held every Sunday. This program offers a fantastic opportunity for individuals aged five and up to participate in self-guided, beginner-level art projects that change monthly. These sessions are completely free of charge, making them the perfect way to spend a productive afternoon with family and friends while fostering your imagination and technical skills. We encourage you to visit our website to view the full calendar of upcoming events and workshops. Registration is required for our Sunday studio sessions, so please secure your spot today to ensure your participation. We look forward to seeing you at Artspace where we can create something meaningful together.

Unleash your creativity at Artspace Open Studio, a vibrant community program hosted at our downtown Raleigh visual arts center. Every Sunday, we invite guests of all ages, starting at age five and up, to explore their artistic potential through engaging and self-guided projects. Each month features a unique, beginner-friendly activity designed to inspire imagination and provide a welcoming space for artistic discovery. Whether you are an aspiring artist or simply looking for a fun weekend activity, our studio provides the perfect environment to learn and create. Beyond our weekly workshops, Artspace offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the local arts scene. Visitors can explore professional exhibitions featuring renowned national and community artists or take a peek behind the curtain to observe over thirty talented artists working directly in their private studios. This initiative is proudly supported by the City of Raleigh Arts Commission, the United Arts Council, and the NC Arts Council. Space is limited, so please ensure you register for your spot today to secure your participation in this exciting weekly creative journey. We look forward to seeing your artistic vision come to life.

Celebrate the outstanding achievements of young artists at the Awards Ceremony & Reception for the 16th Annual Wake County Teen Art Exhibition. Held on May 10, 2026, from 2:00–4:00 p.m. at the Frankie G. Weems Gallery on the campus of Meredith College, this special event honors student creativity, dedication, and artistic excellence. During the ceremony, $20,000 in awards will be presented to talented students and participating schools, recognizing exceptional work selected from across Wake County. Guests will have the opportunity to meet the artists, view the exhibition, and join in celebrating the importance of arts education in the community. Hosted by the Fine Arts League of Cary and generously sponsored by Cary Family Dental and community partners, this inspiring afternoon highlights the power of creativity and supports the next generation of artists. All are warmly invited to attend.