Story Time at the NC Museum of Natural Sciences

Experience the ultimate cinematic block party as JawsFest returns to the Midway in downtown Chapel Hill on Sunday, May 24, 2026. This unique Memorial Day Weekend celebration transforms the local landscape into a vibrant hub of entertainment. Attendees can look forward to an eclectic mix of attractions, including a mechanical shark, a challenging dunk tank, engaging art installations, and a thrilling raffle. The highlight of the event is an immersive screening of the classic film Jaws, brought to life on the big screen. The festivities span across multiple local businesses, including The Baxter, Lapin Bleu, and Local 506, as well as the bustling Midway Alley. Whether you are seeking live music, local art, or the simple joy of community gathering, this event offers something for everyone. Because schedules and individual business activities are evolving, we encourage you to explore the area firsthand to discover the full range of programming available throughout the day. Join your neighbors for this unforgettable celebration of film and community spirit. Plan your visit to 106 North Graham Street and prepare for a weekend to remember.

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 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.

Experience the vibrant spirit of local artistry at the Durham Craft Market, held every Saturday morning at the beautiful Durham Central Park. This exceptional outdoor market serves as a hub for creativity, featuring an impressive collective of over 50 local artisans. Each participant lives and creates within 30 miles of Durham, ensuring that every item you discover is truly representative of the local community. From intricate handmade goods to unique treasures, the market offers a fantastic opportunity to support regional talent while connecting with neighbors and visitors alike. Join us on April 11, 2026, for a milestone celebration as we honor twenty years of community, art, and dedication. This special anniversary event will feature an engaging Meet the Maker Scavenger Hunt where attendees can win exclusive prizes, including branded tote bags, stickers, and gift certificates to spend with our featured artists. Admission is completely free, making it the perfect weekend outing for everyone. Come explore the stalls, meet the talented makers behind the work, and find your next favorite handcrafted piece in the heart of downtown Durham.

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.

Knowing the West Community Day offers the public free admission to explore the Knowing the West exhibition. This event provides an open opportunity for community members to engage with regional history and cultural narratives in an accessible and welcoming environment. Visitors can view the exhibit at their own pace to gain insights into the themes presented. The experience is designed to be informative and educational, allowing attendees to interact with the materials and learn about the significant historical context of the West. Staff will be available on site to facilitate a smooth experience and provide necessary context for those interested in the collection. This event is perfect for families, local history enthusiasts, students, and anyone curious about the region. The atmosphere is casual and open to all, making it a great way to spend a day learning something new. Please plan your visit to ensure you have enough time to explore the entire space before the close of business. Join us for a day of discovery and community engagement.

Unleash your inner artist and discover the joy of creation at Marbles Artrageous. This engaging program invites guests of all ages to express themselves through a diverse array of materials and artistic techniques. Whether you are experimenting with vibrant colors or exploring new textures, every session provides the perfect environment to bring your unique vision to life. Our facilitators are dedicated to fostering a creative atmosphere where participants feel encouraged to experiment and take artistic risks. It is a wonderful opportunity to develop new skills, explore your imagination, and produce original works of art in a welcoming and collaborative space. We invite you to join us for these hands-on sessions held every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. This experience is included with your general museum admission, making it a perfect addition to your visit. Come prepared to get messy, think outside the box, and have a fantastic time exploring the boundless possibilities of your own creativity. Gather your friends and family, visit our museum galleries, and make art your next great adventure. We look forward to seeing the masterpieces you will create during your next visit.

Join Fit and Able for the annual Run to Remember event held during Memorial Day weekend. This inspiring race takes place at the Northwest Cary YMCA and utilizes the beautiful Cary greenway trails, providing a fantastic backdrop for athletes of all levels. We are proud to host this event to support the local Veterans of Foreign Wars and honor those who have served. Participants can choose between in-person or virtual options for the two, four, or six mile race distances. All finishers will receive a commemorative medal and gift when registered by April 26th. With over 4,000 dollars in potential awards across various age groups and divisions, there is plenty of competitive excitement to go around. You can even earn rewards by referring friends or forming a racing team. This event also contributes points toward the Fit and Able Free for All Race Series standings. We invite you to lace up your running shoes and participate in this meaningful community tradition. Register online today to secure your spot and help us make this year the most impactful race yet.

Experience the vibrant spirit of local artistry at the Durham Craft Market, held every Saturday morning at the beautiful Durham Central Park. This exceptional outdoor market serves as a hub for creativity, featuring an impressive collective of over 50 local artisans. Each participant lives and creates within 30 miles of Durham, ensuring that every item you discover is truly representative of the local community. From intricate handmade goods to unique treasures, the market offers a fantastic opportunity to support regional talent while connecting with neighbors and visitors alike. Join us on April 11, 2026, for a milestone celebration as we honor twenty years of community, art, and dedication. This special anniversary event will feature an engaging Meet the Maker Scavenger Hunt where attendees can win exclusive prizes, including branded tote bags, stickers, and gift certificates to spend with our featured artists. Admission is completely free, making it the perfect weekend outing for everyone. Come explore the stalls, meet the talented makers behind the work, and find your next favorite handcrafted piece in the heart of downtown Durham.

Experience the charm of country life at the Sunrise Community Farm Center located in the heart of Chapel Hill, North Carolina. This inclusive destination invites visitors of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities to connect with nature every Saturday throughout the year. Regardless of the weather, you can explore the grounds comfortably thanks to our extensive covered and weather-proof areas, ensuring a delightful outing rain or shine. Our open farm days offer a unique opportunity to interact with animals and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of our community space. For those seeking a bit of adventure, we provide horse and pony ride reservations to elevate your visit. Admission is set at an affordable rate, making this a perfect weekend activity for families and friends looking to spend time outdoors. We encourage you to join our vibrant community and discover everything we have to offer. Whether you are looking for a relaxing stroll or an exciting pony ride, there is something here for everyone. Secure your tickets online or at the gate today and prepare for a memorable day on the farm.