Strawberry Festival

Join a park naturalist for an educational guided hike through the local ecosystem. This event offers participants a unique opportunity to explore the trail system while learning about the native plants and animals that inhabit our protected park lands. During this guided experience, you will traverse diverse terrains as the naturalist points out significant ecological features and wildlife habitats. The session is designed to provide deeper insight into regional biology through direct observation and expert interpretation. Participants will gain a better understanding of the natural processes that sustain our environment and learn how to identify various local species in their natural setting. This hike is intended for nature enthusiasts and anyone interested in local ecology. We recommend this experience for individuals comfortable walking at least one mile on uneven paths. Please ensure you are prepared for the outing by wearing sturdy closed-toe shoes and carrying a full water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the trek. We invite you to join us for an informative morning outdoors where you can connect with nature, ask questions, and enjoy the scenery alongside an experienced professional who is dedicated to park conservation.

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.

Let’s Make Maps is an educational program focused on the history and creation of cartography. Participants will explore how various maps have been constructed throughout history and apply these techniques by creating their own maps of the Prairie Ridge area. During the session, attendees will discover how mapping connects to global citizen science initiatives. You will learn practical ways to contribute to projects that monitor and conserve ecosystems. The experience involves a short walk of approximately one half mile to our outdoor classroom where we will conduct our mapping activities. This program bridges the gap between historical craft and modern environmental science, providing you with the tools to document the natural world. This event is perfect for anyone curious about geography or conservation efforts. We encourage participants of all skill levels to join us for this engaging outdoor experience. Please dress appropriately for the current weather conditions, as we will be walking to our site from the main building near the parking lot. We look forward to seeing you there for a productive and educational afternoon of mapping and environmental discovery.

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 an unforgettable evening of rhythm and community at the Sunrise Community Farm Center in Chapel Hill. On Friday, May 15, 2026, we invite you to join us for an energetic Barn Dance featuring the soulful sounds of The Fuzzy Catfish Blues Band. This event celebrates the vibrant spirit of our local farm, offering a perfect opportunity to enjoy live music and dancing under the stars in a welcoming, inclusive environment suitable for all ages and backgrounds. We believe that culture and connection should be accessible to everyone in our community. In this spirit, we are adopting a pay what you can ticket model for this event. Your contributions directly support our talented local musicians while ensuring that high-quality entertainment remains available to all neighbors regardless of budget. This is a fantastic way to spend a Friday night while giving back to the arts scene. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and the festivities continue until 9 p.m. We encourage you to bring your dancing shoes and join us at 6407 Millhouse Road for this heartwarming celebration. Please visit our website for further details and to plan your visit to our community farm center.

Experience the charm of country life at Sunrise Community Farm Center in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. This inclusive destination invites visitors of all ages and backgrounds to explore our beautiful grounds and connect with nature. Every Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., we host our popular Open Farm event, which remains open rain or shine throughout the entire year. With numerous covered and weatherproof areas available, you are guaranteed a comfortable and enjoyable visit regardless of the forecast. Our farm offers a unique environment where you can observe animal life and enjoy the outdoors in a peaceful setting. For those looking to add a little extra excitement to their trip, we offer optional pony and horse rides. Please note that ride spots require a prior reservation to ensure availability. General admission is priced at 8 dollars per person, while the admission package including a pony ride is 18 dollars. We encourage you to purchase your tickets online in advance or simply stop by the farm on the day of your visit. Join us this Saturday for a memorable day on the farm.

The Raleigh Wine Shop is hosting its 15th anniversary celebration and fundraiser starting Monday May 11th. This week long event features the shop largest sale of the year with discounted wines available both in store and online to mark the milestone anniversary. Attendees can participate in daily wine tastings and support the community through a dedicated fundraiser for the Womens Center of Wake County. A portion of all bar sales throughout the week will be donated to the organization. The final celebration day includes coffee and bagel service in the morning followed by food popups from Alimentari and Locals Seafood. Guests can also enjoy beverage tastings featuring spritz and THC options alongside free wine tastings hosted by industry representatives from noon until evening. This event is designed for wine enthusiasts and community supporters who want to enjoy high quality drinks while contributing to a local cause. The atmosphere will be festive and welcoming throughout the day. We invite you to visit the shop to enjoy a glass or a bottle while helping us give back to our community.

Park it at the Market is a community engagement program hosted by PONDER at Downtown Cary Park. This event offers an inclusive environment specifically designed for people living with dementia and their care partners to connect through shared experiences. Attendees will explore the sights, sounds, and flavors of a local farmers market. The program includes a guided food tasting session, interactive art-making, and a culinary demonstration. A major highlight is a horticulture chat led by Emmy-winning horticulturist Patrick McMillan, providing nature-based learning and engagement. These activities focus on multisensory stimulation and social interaction in an accessible outdoor setting. This program is tailored to provide a welcoming and supportive atmosphere for those navigating memory loss. It creates a space where attendees can share meaningful moments, enjoy laughter, and build community with others in similar situations. We invite you to join us for this unique opportunity to celebrate creativity and culture. Please register in advance to ensure your spot for this enriching experience and join our community as we enjoy a vibrant morning at the park.

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.