Set it Off: Live Stage Play and Creative Showcase

The Fine Arts League of Cary proudly presents the 16th Annual Wake County Teen Art Exhibition, a vibrant celebration of creativity showcasing over 100 works by talented student artists from across Wake County. On view May 6–27, 2026, at the Frankie G. Weems Gallery on the campus of Meredith College, this professionally curated exhibition highlights the exceptional achievements of young artists selected by their teachers. Join the community for a special public reception and awards ceremony on May 10, 2026, from 2:00–4:00 p.m., where $20,000 in prizes will be awarded to students and their schools. Sponsored by Cary Family Dental and supported by local arts organizations and Meredith College, the exhibition not only honors artistic excellence but also reinvests in school art programs, helping foster the next generation of creative thinkers. Now in its 16th year, this inspiring event underscores the importance of arts education while offering students a meaningful opportunity to exhibit their work in a gallery setting. All are welcome to attend and experience the creativity, imagination, and talent of Wake County’s young artists.

Animazement is the premier Japanese animation and culture convention held annually in Raleigh. This event serves as a central hub for fans to celebrate anime, manga, and traditional Japanese culture through diverse programming and community engagement. Attendees can experience a wide variety of activities including live concerts, educational workshops, and panel discussions featuring industry experts. The convention floor hosts an extensive marketplace offering limited edition merchandise and unique artwork from independent creators. Guests also have access to interactive gaming areas, cosplay events, and cultural demonstrations designed to provide a comprehensive look at both modern and traditional Japanese arts. This event is perfect for casual viewers, dedicated fans, and cultural enthusiasts who appreciate high quality entertainment and immersive environments. The atmosphere is welcoming and inclusive, encouraging attendees to connect with like minded individuals in a vibrant setting. Whether you are looking to learn something new, discover rare collectibles, or simply enjoy a weekend of festivities, Animazement offers a structured and engaging experience. We invite you to join us in Raleigh for this celebration of creativity and community. Secure your tickets now to participate in this unique gathering.

Paint and Sip with Cats is a creative evening class held at the local cat cafe where participants paint a customizable portrait of a feline companion. Led by local artist Taylor Varron, this guided event provides a relaxed environment for attendees to express their creativity while interacting with resident cats. The experience is designed to be accessible to everyone regardless of prior painting skill levels. Each ticket includes step-by-step professional instruction and all necessary art supplies, including a pre-drawn canvas. Beyond the painting workshop, guests enjoy dedicated playtime with the cats throughout the evening. This structured session ensures you have everything needed to complete your masterpiece while enjoying a unique social atmosphere. A portion of every ticket sale directly benefits Safe Haven for Cats, supporting local animal welfare efforts. This event is perfect for art enthusiasts, cat lovers, and anyone looking for a fun evening out. The atmosphere is casual, welcoming, and intended for those seeking a creative way to unwind. Space is limited, so please secure your tickets early to join us for this artistic and charitable gathering.

Experience the vibrant energy of live music at Boxyard RTP, a unique destination located at 900 Park Offices Drive in Durham. This innovative space is constructed from upcycled shipping containers, creating an industrial yet inviting atmosphere that perfectly highlights the central pavilion where performances take place. Whether you are looking to unwind after a long week or discover talented local artists, our Friday night music sessions provide the ideal soundtrack for your evening. Beyond the stage, you can explore a variety of local food and beverage vendors or browse through unique offerings from our on-site retailers. The distinct cargotecture design makes every visit memorable, offering a dynamic community hub for friends and family to gather. We invite you to join us for an evening of melody, community, and great tastes in one of the most creative spaces in the Triangle area. To ensure you do not miss out on your favorite artists, we encourage you to visit our website at boxyard.org/calendar for the most up to date schedule. We look forward to seeing you at Boxyard RTP for an unforgettable night of entertainment.

Experience the vibrant spirit of North Carolina at Sonark Farms in Hillsborough. Set across sixty three acres of beautiful countryside, this destination offers a peaceful escape where community and music thrive. The Bar at Sonark Farms serves as the heart of the property, providing a rustic and relaxed environment perfect for enjoying high quality live entertainment under the open sky. Join us for an unforgettable evening featuring the All Y'all Country All Stars. This performance promises a high energy show that captures the essence of country music in a welcoming outdoor setting. Whether you are a local fan or just passing through the region, our farm venue offers the perfect backdrop for a memorable night with friends and family. We invite you to support local musicians while enjoying the serene landscape of our working farm. Tickets are affordably priced to ensure everyone can participate in the festivities. Make sure to secure your spot today and visit our official website to view the full lineup of upcoming concerts and events happening throughout the season.

Iration is launching the Where It All Began Summer Tour in 2026. This extensive concert series travels to diverse indoor and outdoor venues across the country to celebrate the band long standing musical journey. Fans attending these performances will hear a completely new setlist featuring fresh music and unreleased tracks. The band has designed a high production show to complement the intimate atmosphere of select locations. Longtime friends Tribal Seeds will join the tour as supporting acts for most dates. Attendees can anticipate a curated musical experience filled with unique performances and planned surprises throughout every show. This tour is intended for loyal fans and music lovers who appreciate live performances. Whether you prefer the energy of a festival stage or the acoustics of a club, this tour offers a versatile environment for everyone. The atmosphere will be energetic, focused, and welcoming to all guests. We encourage you to secure your tickets early to ensure your spot at this seasonal celebration of live music. Please check your local venue for specific start times and logistical information.

Brush the Skyline is a guided watercolor workshop held in Raleigh that supports lupus awareness and advocacy initiatives. A portion of every ticket sale is donated directly to these causes, allowing participants to combine creativity with a meaningful social impact. This special edition event focuses on blending artistic expression with community support. Participants will follow a guided session to create a Starry Night inspired painting while enjoying panoramic views of the Raleigh skyline. All painting materials are provided, and no prior experience is required to attend. Whiskey Kitchen will provide full-service food and beverage options throughout the duration of the class for attendees to purchase. This event is designed for anyone looking for a creative reset, a unique night out, or a memorable social experience. The atmosphere is intentional, welcoming, and focused on connection through art. Whether you are an experienced painter or a complete beginner, you will have the guidance needed to complete your own masterpiece. Join us to enjoy a productive evening that makes a real difference. Secure your spot today to participate in this impactful night of art and advocacy.

Plant Care Without Overwhelm is an in-person workshop focused on building sustainable garden maintenance routines for busy individuals. The session provides practical strategies to move away from rigid, stressful gardening rules toward intentional care habits that fit into a real-life schedule. During this session, you will learn how to water, feed, and monitor your plants effectively. We prioritize hands-on observation in our teaching garden to help you identify early signs of plant stress and implement timely, manageable solutions. The small group setting ensures you receive individualized guidance and participate in meaningful discussions about your specific gardening challenges. This workshop is perfect for new gardeners and busy parents who want to foster a healthy, thriving garden without burnout. It serves as the third installment in our Beginner Gardener Workshop Series, though it remains a standalone experience. Whether you are seeking confidence in your gardening skills or trying to establish a reliable routine, this session offers the tools needed for long-term success. Join us to transform your plant care from a source of stress into a grounding, intentional practice that supports your well-being and your garden.

This event features a hands-on metal stamping workshop and a community book swap hosted in partnership with the North Carolina Museum of History and the Plott Hound Literary Circle. It serves as an engaging kickoff for the new book club, blending creative crafting with literary social time. Participants will receive step-by-step instruction on metal stamping techniques, including access to professional tools, over 25 font styles, and hundreds of design stamps. You will create your own custom bookmark, ornament, or accessory to take home. Following the workshop, attendees can browse a curated selection of books and connect with fellow readers in a relaxed social environment. This event is perfect for book lovers, crafters, and anyone interested in learning a new skill in a creative setting. Whether you are a member of the book club or simply enjoy hands-on activities, you are welcome to join us. Guests are invited to bring their own drinks and snacks to enjoy throughout the session. If you are attending with a group, please purchase tickets together to ensure coordinated seating arrangements.

Experience the magic of cinema without breaking your budget at The Lumina Theater in Southern Village, located at 620 Market Street in Chapel Hill. We believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to enjoy the latest films on the big screen, which is why we are proud to offer our signature Terrific Tuesdays program. Throughout the entire year, every single movie ticket is priced at just 6.25 dollars. When accounting for all taxes and fees, your total price remains an incredibly affordable 7.75 dollars per person. It is the perfect way to catch the newest blockbusters or independent features while enjoying significant savings. Beyond our accessible ticket pricing, guests can also indulge in exclusive concession specials available only on Tuesdays. These discounts make our theater the ultimate destination for your weekly movie night out with friends or family. We invite you to join our growing community of film enthusiasts in the Triangle area and take advantage of this fantastic offer every week. Come visit us soon to secure your seats for a memorable cinematic experience at an unbeatable value. We look forward to seeing you at the movies.

The KidsWrite! Festival 2026 is an annual showcase where Burning Coal Theatre presents professional productions of one-act plays written by young playwrights from across North Carolina. This initiative aims to foster creative expression in youth by bringing their original stories to the professional stage. Directed by Zoe Matney and Christina Polge, this year features a diverse lineup of nine new works. The program includes performances of Focus by Eliza Basch, And I Feel Fine by Jonathan Noah Howard, Today I Feel Like Death by Taite Capes, Hope in Faith by Mia Hayes, and A Love Letter by Talia Tran. Additionally, the festival showcases Split Screen by Simon Payen, Roulette by Neile Joshi, Apollo’s Great Adventure by Del Traylor, and Karmic Sickness by Samantha Allard. This event is designed for theater enthusiasts, families, and supporters of youth arts education. Attendees can expect a high-energy environment celebrating fresh perspectives and emerging talent. We invite you to witness these unique creative visions firsthand. Please join us at Burning Coal Theatre to support these budding playwrights as they debut their work in a professional setting.

Hot N' Heavy is a high-energy live performance event that combines professional burlesque artistry with heavy metal cover music. Produced by Groovy Tomb and Tool Chest Productions, the show features live musicians and dancers reimagining popular tracks through a metal lens to create a unique sensory experience. The evening features a rotating lineup of performers who utilize powerful vocals and heavy riffs to elevate traditional burlesque routines. Hosted by Holly Pocket and Topper O'Toole, the production emphasizes choreography, complex stage presence, and skilled musicianship. Attendees can expect a series of acts that blend rhythmic performance art with the intensity of heavy metal music in a theater environment. This show is designed for fans of live music, performance art, and unconventional entertainment seeking an alternative night out. The atmosphere is bold, fast-paced, and theatrical, making it suitable for adult audiences interested in edgy, high-production stage shows. Tickets are available for purchase online for those ready to experience this fusion of sound and performance. We encourage all interested attendees to secure their entry early to guarantee a spot at this one-of-a-kind production.