Retracing the Lewis and Clark Expedition: A National Geographic Explorer Presentation

FREE Family Fest in Raleigh — Saturday, September 12! Looking for a full day of family fun, creativity, connection, and outdoor adventure? Join us for the 3rd Annual Family Fest at Lakeside Retreats! Optional overnight Camping 📅 Saturday, September 12, 2026 ⏰ 8:00 AM–9:00 PM 📍 4521 Mial Plantation Road, Raleigh, NC 27610 🎟️ FREE admission Enjoy a day filled with: 🔥 Fire show 🎨 Art activities 🥋 Martial arts class 🫧 Bubbles 🧘 Yoga and sound bath 🌲 Forest bathing 🏕️ S’mores and optional overnight camping 🍴 Food trucks and vendors 💛 Sensory yurt 🎤 Guest speakers 🏆 Tug of war …and so much more!

Join Downtown Cary Park horticulturist Patrick McMillan for an expert-led tour of our extensive aquatic plant collection. This event focuses on the biological adaptations, cultural lore, and local wildlife connections of the park's diverse aquatic species. Participants will gain a deeper understanding of the vital role these plants play within our urban ecosystem. During this session, attendees will observe the lotus collection at its peak flowering stage. You will learn about the unique structural features of various lily pads and frogfruit varieties while exploring the design behind the Triangle's premier aquatic display. Patrick McMillan will share his professional insights into the botanical complexities and environmental requirements of these water-dwelling plants. This educational tour is perfect for gardening enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone interested in local horticulture. The atmosphere is casual, informative, and designed for those who appreciate the natural beauty found within the city center. We encourage you to register soon to secure your spot for this unique seasonal experience. Come prepared for an engaging walk through the park to discover the magical nature of our aquatic plant displays.

Looking for the perfect way to keep the family entertained this summer? Join us at Marquee Cinemas Wakefield 12 in Raleigh for our exciting summer movie series. We are thrilled to offer free family-friendly screenings every Tuesday and Wednesday from June 16 through August 5, 2026. With two showtimes available each morning at 9:30 a.m. and 9:45 a.m., there are plenty of opportunities to catch your favorite films on the big screen without breaking the bank. To enhance your cinematic experience, we are also offering exclusive concession specials throughout the program. You can enjoy a delicious junior drink and popcorn combo for only 4.50 dollars or opt for our small drink and popcorn deal for just 8.50 dollars. These screenings are a fantastic way to enjoy the magic of movies while staying cool and creating lasting memories with your children. We encourage you to visit our website to view the full 2026 schedule and plan your weekly outings. Come join the fun and make your summer truly unforgettable at your local Marquee Cinemas.

Looking for the perfect way to keep the family entertained this summer? Triangle Cinemas invites you to join us at our Raleigh location for an exciting series of complimentary movie screenings. We are thrilled to present the fan-favorite film Penguins of Madagascar as part of our seasonal programming. This special event offers a fantastic opportunity for children and parents alike to enjoy quality entertainment in a comfortable cinema environment without any admission costs. Our doors open at 9:30 a.m. with the main feature beginning promptly at 10:00 a.m., running from June 16 through August 20, 2026. Please note that while admission is free, outside food and beverages are not permitted inside the theater. However, our full-service concession stand will be open and fully stocked with delicious snacks and refreshing drinks for you to enjoy during the show. We encourage all families to visit our website to view the complete schedule of screenings and explore our additional resources for affordable summer activities in the Triangle area. We look forward to welcoming you to the movies this season for a memorable cinematic experience.

Step back in time to relive a milestone moment in local heritage. Fifty years ago, Durham joined the nation in celebrating the American Bicentennial with a vibrant festival at West Point on the Eno. This special event showcased the best of North Carolina traditional arts, music, and crafts, creating lasting memories for the entire community. To honor this anniversary, the Museum of Durham History is hosting an exclusive pop-up exhibition featuring rare photographs, personal recollections, and period music from the original celebration. Join us on Friday, July 17, 2026, from 6 to 8 p.m. for an informal reception at the Museum of Durham History. This engaging event offers a wonderful opportunity to connect with local history, hear firsthand stories from those who attended the original 1976 festival, and explore a unique visual archive of our shared past. Whether you are a long-time resident or a history enthusiast, this evening promises to be an enlightening and festive experience for all. Admission is free, so bring your friends and neighbors to celebrate this meaningful look at our community history. We look forward to seeing you there.

Join the Museum of Durham History for a captivating trip down memory lane as we commemorate the 50th anniversary of the 1976 Bicentennial Folklife Festival. Fifty years ago, Durham residents gathered at West Point on the Eno to celebrate American heritage through traditional music, arts, and crafts. We have partnered with original organizers to curate a special pop-up exhibition featuring archival photographs, personal memories, and nostalgic sounds from that iconic weekend. This informal reception takes place on Friday, July 17, 2026, from 6 to 8 p.m. at our location on 500 W Main Street. Guests will have the opportunity to explore historic images and engage with community members who experienced this unique celebration firsthand. Whether you were there in 1976 or are simply interested in the rich cultural tapestry of our city, this event promises an evening of connection and local discovery. This event is free to the public and offers a wonderful way to honor our shared past. We look forward to welcoming you to the museum for this milestone celebration. Please mark your calendars and join us for this insightful journey through Durham history.

Discover the hidden narratives of the past at the Historic Oakwood Cemetery, a sprawling 72 acre landmark in the heart of Raleigh. With over 140 years of local history, this park-like setting serves as the final resting place for governors, senators, and historical figures who shaped North Carolina. Our First Friday Cemetery Tours offer an engaging deep dive into the famous and infamous lives of those buried on these grounds. Participants will enjoy an evening walk led by knowledgeable guides who share captivating stories while supporting essential monument preservation efforts through their ticket purchase. Whether you are a local history enthusiast or a first-time visitor, these guided tours provide a unique perspective on the regional heritage and the evolution of the cemetery industry. We invite you to join our community for an informative and atmospheric experience. Please remember to bring water and weather-appropriate clothing for your walk. Registration is required for these monthly sessions, so secure your spot online today to ensure your participation. We look forward to exploring these storied paths with you soon.

Join Downtown Cary Park horticulturist Patrick McMillan for an expert-led tour of our extensive aquatic plant collection. This event focuses on the biological adaptations, cultural lore, and local wildlife connections of the park's diverse aquatic species. Participants will gain a deeper understanding of the vital role these plants play within our urban ecosystem. During this session, attendees will observe the lotus collection at its peak flowering stage. You will learn about the unique structural features of various lily pads and frogfruit varieties while exploring the design behind the Triangle's premier aquatic display. Patrick McMillan will share his professional insights into the botanical complexities and environmental requirements of these water-dwelling plants. This educational tour is perfect for gardening enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone interested in local horticulture. The atmosphere is casual, informative, and designed for those who appreciate the natural beauty found within the city center. We encourage you to register soon to secure your spot for this unique seasonal experience. Come prepared for an engaging walk through the park to discover the magical nature of our aquatic plant displays.

Join Downtown Cary Park horticulturist Patrick McMillan for an expert-led tour of our extensive aquatic plant collection. This event focuses on the biological adaptations, cultural lore, and local wildlife connections of the park's diverse aquatic species. Participants will gain a deeper understanding of the vital role these plants play within our urban ecosystem. During this session, attendees will observe the lotus collection at its peak flowering stage. You will learn about the unique structural features of various lily pads and frogfruit varieties while exploring the design behind the Triangle's premier aquatic display. Patrick McMillan will share his professional insights into the botanical complexities and environmental requirements of these water-dwelling plants. This educational tour is perfect for gardening enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone interested in local horticulture. The atmosphere is casual, informative, and designed for those who appreciate the natural beauty found within the city center. We encourage you to register soon to secure your spot for this unique seasonal experience. Come prepared for an engaging walk through the park to discover the magical nature of our aquatic plant displays.

Experience the vibrant energy of the Centennial SoundBites concert series, an exciting musical collaboration between the Oak City Music Collective and NC State Centennial Campus. This recurring event invites the community to enjoy high-quality live performances in a relaxed outdoor setting. Whether you are looking for the perfect mid-week break or a way to enjoy lunch with a soundtrack, this series offers a fantastic atmosphere for music lovers across the Triangle region. Taking place on most Wednesdays throughout the summer months at 321 Coffee in Raleigh, the event features a variety of local talent. Guests are encouraged to explore the diverse food trucks on site, providing delicious dining options while you listen. Parking is simple and convenient, with free spaces available at the Oval West Parking Deck; please remember to validate your license plate upon arrival using the provided QR code. We invite you to join us for this community-focused celebration of local music and culture. Check the official schedule regularly for updates on the performer lineup and plan your next visit to Centennial Campus today.