Sapphic Hike at Umstead State Park

The Sapphic Bachata Dance Night is a beginner friendly Latin dance event hosted at Cuya in downtown Raleigh. This social gathering provides a structured space for the sapphic community to learn bachata basics and connect through movement. Participants will start with a guided lesson led by Amy and DJ Cokie covering rhythm, footwork, and dance flow. Following the instructional portion, the floor opens for practice and social dancing. Attendees can purchase drinks and Latin cuisine on site throughout the evening to enjoy between sets. Instruction begins promptly at seven forty-five so guests are encouraged to arrive early to get settled. This event is designed for individuals seeking a low-pressure environment to learn dance and meet new people. Whether you are an experienced dancer or have never stepped on a dance floor, the evening offers an inclusive space to develop skills and enjoy a vibrant atmosphere. Join us for a night of music and community engagement in the heart of downtown Raleigh. Please prepare to dance, socialize, and participate in a welcoming group setting.

The Anime Cocktail Lounge at Bitter Social is a specialized pop-up event serving as the official home base for Animazement weekend. Guests are invited to enjoy a unique blend of anime culture and elevated bar experiences in the heart of Raleigh. This two-night gathering provides a central hub for attendees to relax and socialize between convention activities. Participants can look forward to a curated menu of exceptional cocktails crafted for the occasion. The venue features a private outdoor space perfect for unwinding and high-quality background music designed to enhance the atmosphere. The event highlights classic and contemporary anime screenings throughout the weekend to keep the theme alive. It is an ideal space for those who want to appreciate immersive media in a sophisticated bar setting. This event is perfect for anime enthusiasts, convention-goers, and anyone seeking a high-end social environment. Cosplay is welcomed and encouraged for all guests. Admission is free with no cover charge, allowing everyone to drop in as they please. Join us this weekend at Bitter Social to experience a relaxed, inclusive space designed for fans who value great drinks and community.

The Rocky Horror Picture Show is a cult classic cinematic experience presented at The Rialto theatre in Raleigh. This event combines a high-energy screening of the iconic film with a professional live shadow cast performance. It serves as a staple of the local arts scene and invites fans to celebrate this unique tradition in a historic venue. Attendees can expect an interactive experience featuring the Low Down Cheap Little Punks as they perform alongside the movie. The cast brings the story to life through elaborate costumes, choreography, and audience engagement throughout the show. Expect a lively environment where the line between the film and the stage fades, creating a dynamic and immersive atmosphere for everyone in attendance. This event is perfect for fans of cult cinema, musical theater enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a memorable night out in Raleigh. The production welcomes both long-time devotees and first-time viewers to participate in the tradition. Tickets sell quickly for these screenings, so we encourage you to book your seats in advance to ensure your spot for this quintessential local performance.

Experience the joy of literature and the beauty of nature combined with the May StoryWalks series across Wake County Parks. This engaging program invites families to read a featured children book page by page as they stroll along scenic park trails. It is a wonderful way to foster a love for reading in young children while encouraging physical activity and outdoor exploration in our local natural spaces. We are thrilled to feature several new stories this month at Beech Bluff, Crowder, Harris Lake, Oak View, Yates Mill, and Sandy Pines. Each location offers a unique atmosphere where families can immerse themselves in stories like I Love Strawberries or Finding Wild while enjoying the fresh air. Whether you are a regular park visitor or looking for a new weekend activity, these trails provide the perfect setting for a wholesome and educational outing. We encourage you to visit your nearest participating park location throughout the month of May to discover these delightful tales. Pack your walking shoes and prepare for a rewarding journey through these captivating outdoor libraries that celebrate literacy and our vibrant community environment.

The Garner Police Department is hosting its annual Torch Run on May 20 to raise funds and awareness for Special Olympics North Carolina. This community event brings together local officers and citizens to support inclusive sports programs for athletes throughout the state. Participants will gather at the Garner Police Department to begin a two-mile run. Registration opens promptly at 9 am, and the run will commence at 10 am. This non-competitive event focuses on community solidarity and physical activity. Whether you are an experienced athlete or a casual walker, the route is designed to be accessible and engaging for all fitness levels involved in the day. This event is perfect for families, local business teams, and fitness enthusiasts who want to support a meaningful cause. The atmosphere is energetic, welcoming, and centered on the spirit of the Special Olympics. We encourage community members of all ages to join us for a morning of movement and advocacy. Please arrive by 9 am to complete your registration and prepare for the start of the run. We look forward to seeing the community unite for this important local tradition.

Join the vibrant community at The Bunny Hive for an engaging and social stroller walk designed for parents and little ones alike. We invite you to gather at our location before embarking on a gentle stroll spanning approximately half a mile toward a local coffee shop. This outing provides a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the fresh air, connect with fellow parents, and indulge in a relaxing coffee break before returning to our facility. Upon our return, children are invited to enjoy supervised outdoor play in our secure, fenced, and turf-covered backyard. This space offers a safe environment for kids to explore and interact while you continue your conversations with other members of our community. This event is entirely complimentary and open to participants of all ages, making it the perfect way to spend a morning. Space is limited, so we kindly ask that you register in advance to ensure we have an accurate headcount for our group. We look forward to welcoming you and your family for a morning of activity, socialization, and fun at The Bunny Hive.

Mindful Museum: Spring Singing Bowl Sound Bath is a guided meditation session designed to promote deep relaxation and stress relief within the museum galleries. This event uses resonant instruments and crystal singing bowls to create a calming soundscape that helps participants ground themselves and recover from daily mental fatigue. The session features an immersive sound experience led by facilitator Amanda Richardson. Participants will engage in sound-based meditation techniques focused on nervous system regulation and mental clarity. By combining the quiet atmosphere of our galleries with carefully curated acoustic vibrations, the experience aims to foster a sense of internal peace and renewed focus for all attendees. This event is open to individuals ages 16 and up who are looking for a dedicated space for reflection and mindfulness. The environment is designed to be restorative, quiet, and welcoming for anyone seeking a break from a busy schedule. If you are interested in exploring sound therapy as a method for healing and stress management, we invite you to join us for this unique session to experience the benefits of guided sound meditation in a curated setting.

WARRIOR Combat is a structured kickboxing fitness class designed to build strength, endurance, and confidence through music-synced movement. This program combines boxing combinations with high intensity interval training to provide a complete aerobic and physical conditioning session. Participants will engage in two distinct sections of training. These intervals focus on total body strength and cardiovascular health, utilizing choreographed moves that align with energetic music. The class is structured to be efficient and effective, helping you achieve a full workout in a professional and supportive setting. This class is suitable for individuals of all fitness levels who want a challenging yet accessible exercise routine. Whether you are looking to improve your stamina or simply enjoy a high energy workout, you will find an inclusive atmosphere that encourages personal progress. To prepare, please bring a mat, a water bottle, and a sweat towel. Ensure you wear appropriate athletic clothing and supportive footwear for your safety. Join us at Glen Eden to experience this empowering way to train and reach your personal fitness goals.

Celebrate AAPI Heritage Month by joining our community Mahjong Social. This event offers an accessible space for participants to play the classic tile game in a casual and social setting that emphasizes shared learning and friendly competition. Whether you are a seasoned player or completely new to the game, this gathering provides a dedicated time to engage with Mahjong in a relaxed environment. The evening focuses on hands on gameplay where strategy meets luck. Attendees will have the opportunity to join tables with players of varying skill levels to exchange techniques and enjoy the camaraderie of the game. We provide the tiles and the space, creating a structured yet open atmosphere where you can focus on the game and connect with fellow enthusiasts. No prior expertise is required, as the event is designed to support both beginners and experienced players. This event is open to community members of all ages, fostering an intergenerational space for connection. It is the perfect opportunity to learn a timeless game while celebrating cultural heritage in a collaborative way. We invite everyone to register today and secure their spot at the table.