Shakespeare in the Parks: As You Like It

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.

The Got to Be NC Festival is a three day community celebration hosted at the North Carolina State Fairgrounds. This annual event showcases the best of the state by highlighting local products, agriculture, and regional culture in one central location. Attendees can explore a vast array of exhibits featuring North Carolina made food, beverages, and crafts. The festival grounds host live musical performances, agricultural demonstrations, and interactive displays suitable for all ages. Visitors will find plenty of opportunities to sample local goods while learning about the industry and heritage that define the state. The layout ensures easy navigation through different vendor sections and entertainment areas. This event is designed for families, local residents, and visitors who want to experience authentic North Carolina hospitality. The atmosphere is casual, welcoming, and perfect for a weekend outing with friends. Admission to the festival and parking are both completely free for everyone. Plan your visit to support local businesses and enjoy a festive environment that celebrates the unique identity of North Carolina. We invite you to join the community for this comprehensive state showcase.

Experience our historic gristmill in operation during these interactive demonstration tours. This program invites visitors to observe traditional milling techniques and learn about the mechanical power of water-driven machinery in a preserved historical setting. You will witness the complete process of turning raw corn into meal using authentic millstones. Listen to the sound of the waterwheel, see the inner workings of the historic machinery, and engage with our knowledgeable historical interpreters who explain the significance of the milling process. These tours are designed for anyone interested in regional history, engineering, or local agricultural heritage. The atmosphere is educational and perfect for curious individuals or families looking for a unique hands-on learning experience. Because space inside the mill is limited to twenty people at a time, we operate this as a drop-in program throughout the scheduled hours. No advance registration is required to join. Simply arrive at the mill during the posted times to participate in this engaging demonstration. We look forward to sharing this piece of our living history with you during your next visit.

The Got to Be NC Festival is a three day community celebration hosted at the North Carolina State Fairgrounds. This annual event showcases the best of the state by highlighting local products, agriculture, and regional culture in one central location. Attendees can explore a vast array of exhibits featuring North Carolina made food, beverages, and crafts. The festival grounds host live musical performances, agricultural demonstrations, and interactive displays suitable for all ages. Visitors will find plenty of opportunities to sample local goods while learning about the industry and heritage that define the state. The layout ensures easy navigation through different vendor sections and entertainment areas. This event is designed for families, local residents, and visitors who want to experience authentic North Carolina hospitality. The atmosphere is casual, welcoming, and perfect for a weekend outing with friends. Admission to the festival and parking are both completely free for everyone. Plan your visit to support local businesses and enjoy a festive environment that celebrates the unique identity of North Carolina. We invite you to join the community for this comprehensive state showcase.

Experience our historic gristmill in operation during these interactive demonstration tours. This program invites visitors to observe traditional milling techniques and learn about the mechanical power of water-driven machinery in a preserved historical setting. You will witness the complete process of turning raw corn into meal using authentic millstones. Listen to the sound of the waterwheel, see the inner workings of the historic machinery, and engage with our knowledgeable historical interpreters who explain the significance of the milling process. These tours are designed for anyone interested in regional history, engineering, or local agricultural heritage. The atmosphere is educational and perfect for curious individuals or families looking for a unique hands-on learning experience. Because space inside the mill is limited to twenty people at a time, we operate this as a drop-in program throughout the scheduled hours. No advance registration is required to join. Simply arrive at the mill during the posted times to participate in this engaging demonstration. We look forward to sharing this piece of our living history with you during your next visit.

Shakespeare in the Parks presents a free outdoor performance of As You Like It at various locations throughout the Triangle area. This abridged production brings classic theater to local community spaces for a public audience. The story follows Rosalind as she escapes into exile disguised as a man, leading to a series of romantic complications and moments of self-discovery. This version is set in a fictional North Carolina and features live local music. Attendees will experience an accessible, modern take on this comedy through an engaging outdoor performance. The production focuses on themes of reconciliation and love while highlighting the unique regional landscape. This event is suitable for families, students, and theater lovers seeking an informal way to enjoy classical literature. The atmosphere is casual and designed for communal participation in local parks. Please bring your own seating, such as blankets or folding chairs, to ensure a comfortable viewing experience. Check the official event website for a full schedule of dates and specific park locations across the region. We invite you to join us for an afternoon of storytelling and community entertainment in the great outdoors.

Shakespeare in the Parks presents a free outdoor performance of As You Like It at various locations throughout the Triangle area. This abridged production brings classic theater to local community spaces for a public audience. The story follows Rosalind as she escapes into exile disguised as a man, leading to a series of romantic complications and moments of self-discovery. This version is set in a fictional North Carolina and features live local music. Attendees will experience an accessible, modern take on this comedy through an engaging outdoor performance. The production focuses on themes of reconciliation and love while highlighting the unique regional landscape. This event is suitable for families, students, and theater lovers seeking an informal way to enjoy classical literature. The atmosphere is casual and designed for communal participation in local parks. Please bring your own seating, such as blankets or folding chairs, to ensure a comfortable viewing experience. Check the official event website for a full schedule of dates and specific park locations across the region. We invite you to join us for an afternoon of storytelling and community entertainment in the great outdoors.

Experience the intensity of Shakespeare Live as Applause! Cary Youth Theatre presents an abridged performance of Julius Caesar. This engaging production brings one of history most iconic political dramas to life at the beautiful Downtown Cary Park. Featuring a talented cast of local teen performers, this seventy-minute show offers a captivating look at betrayal and ambition in a setting perfect for all ages. The event takes place at the Park Street Arena on Sunday, May 17, 2026, from 12 to 1:10 p.m. This outdoor performance is an excellent opportunity to enjoy professional-grade local theater while spending a relaxing afternoon in the park. Attendees are encouraged to bring blankets or lawn chairs to ensure a comfortable viewing experience during the show. Admission is completely free for everyone, making it the ideal choice for a family picnic and a cultural outing. Do not miss this unique chance to support local youth talent while enjoying a classic masterpiece under the open sky. We look forward to seeing you there for an unforgettable day of theater.

Prepare to be transported into a realm of pure imagination as Taylor Academy of Dance proudly presents Wunderland at Rolesville High School. This enchanting performance weaves together whimsical storytelling and vivid choreography, inviting audiences of all ages to experience a dreamlike journey where creativity knows no bounds. Through intricate movement and expressive artistry, our dancers bring magical characters to life in a show designed to inspire and delight every guest. Accompanying this feature performance is Legends, a high energy showcase dedicated to the iconic musical figures who have defined generations. This segment celebrates the enduring power of music through dynamic choreography and spirited performances that honor timeless artists. Whether you are a fan of classical storytelling or modern musical history, this double feature promises an unforgettable experience for the entire family. We invite you to join us for either the 2PM or 6PM performance. Please visit our official website to purchase your tickets today. We highly recommend booking in advance to take advantage of savings, as ticket prices will increase on the day of the event. We look forward to seeing you there.