Summer Vibes Music Series

Experience the vibrant spirit of Chapel Hill at the iconic Carolina Inn, located on the beautiful University of North Carolina campus. Starting May 1, 2026, we invite you to join us for the highly anticipated return of Fridays on the Front Porch. This beloved weekly series offers a perfect way to kick off your weekend with live music performances in a relaxed outdoor setting. The event runs from 5 to 8 p.m., providing an ideal backdrop for socializing with friends and family. Enjoy the talents of local musicians like The Back Roads while you soak in the pleasant atmosphere of our historic front lawn. To enhance your evening, a rotating selection of local food trucks will be on-site, serving up delicious bites that pair perfectly with the festivities. This event is entirely free to attend, making it a wonderful community gathering that celebrates local culture and entertainment. We encourage you to mark your calendars and arrive early to secure the best spot on the lawn. Whether you are a music enthusiast or simply looking for an enjoyable way to spend your Friday evening, this concert series promises an unforgettable experience. Come be a part of this cherished tradition and celebrate the season with us.

Experience the vibrant spirit of Raleigh at the First Friday Market and Movie Night series held at the historic Moore Square. Hosted by Raleigh Parks and Get 2 Know Raleigh, this monthly community celebration invites residents and visitors to enjoy an evening of entertainment under the stars. From May through November, Moore Square transforms into a lively hub featuring a curated vendor market, diverse food trucks, and interactive free-to-play games that are perfect for all ages. Guests will also enjoy live musical performances by talented local artists, setting the perfect atmosphere before the feature film presentation. Please remember to bring your own comfortable chair or blanket to settle in for the movie screening. These events offer a wonderful opportunity to connect with the community in a scenic outdoor setting. For the latest schedule, weather updates, and specific film details, visit the official Get 2 Know Raleigh social media pages. We look forward to welcoming you to this recurring celebration of local culture, community, and cinema. Make sure to arrive early to secure your spot and enjoy the full evening experience.

Experience the ultimate Friday night getaway at the Bond Park Boathouse with our monthly Bands, Bites, and Boats series. This recurring seasonal event invites you to unwind as the sun sets over the scenic Bond Lake. Guests can enjoy a perfect blend of live music performances, a variety of local food trucks, and exclusive after-hours boat rentals. Whether you are gliding across the water in a pedal boat or lounging on the shore with friends and family, this gathering offers a fantastic atmosphere for all ages. Taking place on the first Friday of each month from April through October, these evenings are designed to help you shake off the work week in a beautiful outdoor setting. Simply bring your lawn chairs and prepare to relax while talented local musicians set the mood. Please be sure to check our official website for the updated schedule of featured musical guests and the rotating lineup of food trucks. We look forward to welcoming you to the lake. Grab your spot early and join us for an unforgettable evening under the open sky.

Experience the vibrant spirit of spring at the annual Wake Forest HerbFest, the longest-running herb festival in the United States. This beloved tradition invites gardening enthusiasts and families alike to explore a vast selection of organic, non-GMO, and heritage herbs, as well as seasonal vegetables and beautiful local perennials. Set against the charming backdrop of downtown Wake Forest, the event creates a lively atmosphere where visitors can connect with local growers and enjoy a variety of artisanal vendors, local art displays, and live musical performances. Whether you are looking to cultivate your dream garden or simply wish to enjoy a beautiful day outdoors with the community, there is something for everyone to enjoy at this celebrated event. Admission is entirely free, making it an accessible and delightful outing for all ages. Join us over two consecutive weekends, April 24 to 26 and May 1 to 3, 2026, at 530 South White Street. We encourage you to mark your calendars and prepare for a weekend of blooming inspiration and community connection. We look forward to seeing you there for another fantastic year of horticultural celebration.

Discover a horticultural paradise at the Juniper Level Botanic Garden and Plant Delights Nursery, located in Raleigh, North Carolina. This extraordinary 28-acre destination showcases an unparalleled collection of over 30,000 unique plant species. Visitors can explore a diverse array of rare native perennials, exotic specimens, and unusual trees sourced from global expeditions across China, South Africa, and beyond. This is an exceptional opportunity for gardening enthusiasts to gather inspiration while experiencing one of the world's most scientifically significant plant collections. These Open Nursery and Garden Days provide a rare chance for the public to wander through these expansive grounds during specific weekends throughout the year. Whether you are a dedicated botanist or simply seeking a beautiful outdoor retreat, the gardens offer an enriching environment to learn and explore. Admission to the grounds is free, and parking is provided on-site. We invite you to join us for this seasonal celebration of nature and horticulture. Visit our website to check the latest schedule and plan your trip to our remarkable gardens today.

Join the Central Carolina Chrysanthemum Society on May 1 and 2, 2026, at the NC State Farmers Market in Raleigh for an exclusive opportunity to acquire rare and heirloom chrysanthemums. This event offers plant enthusiasts access to highly coveted cultivars that are rarely available through commercial retailers. Whether you are a seasoned gardener or a novice, you will find rooted cuttings perfect for your garden or decorative pots. There is no admission fee, making this the perfect local destination for botanical discovery. Expert growers will be present throughout the event to offer personalized guidance and professional tips to ensure your plants thrive. You can explore a wide variety of unique flowers, learn specialized growing techniques, and even join the society to connect with a community of passionate horticulturists. With affordable pricing options of five dollars per plant or five for twenty dollars, this sale provides exceptional value for high quality stock. Do not miss this chance to grow extraordinary flowers that define the Queen of Fall. Visit us at the Farmers Market to elevate your garden collection today.

Discover a horticultural paradise at the Juniper Level Botanic Garden and Plant Delights Nursery, located in Raleigh, North Carolina. This extraordinary 28-acre destination showcases an unparalleled collection of over 30,000 unique plant species. Visitors can explore a diverse array of rare native perennials, exotic specimens, and unusual trees sourced from global expeditions across China, South Africa, and beyond. This is an exceptional opportunity for gardening enthusiasts to gather inspiration while experiencing one of the world's most scientifically significant plant collections. These Open Nursery and Garden Days provide a rare chance for the public to wander through these expansive grounds during specific weekends throughout the year. Whether you are a dedicated botanist or simply seeking a beautiful outdoor retreat, the gardens offer an enriching environment to learn and explore. Admission to the grounds is free, and parking is provided on-site. We invite you to join us for this seasonal celebration of nature and horticulture. Visit our website to check the latest schedule and plan your trip to our remarkable gardens today.

Join the community for Kidical Mass, a series of family-friendly and kid-focused group bike rides hosted by Oaks and Spokes. These events are designed to promote cycling as a fun and safe activity for all ages. Each ride features an exciting pre-ride party to get everyone energized before setting off on the route. Participants will also enjoy a midpoint stop to indulge in a sweet treat, making the experience memorable for every child involved. These rides offer a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the outdoors while connecting with other local families. Participation is entirely free, making this an accessible way to spend quality time together. Whether you are a seasoned cyclist or just starting out, our group rides provide a supportive atmosphere for everyone. We invite you to join us at Pullen Park, Oakwood Park, or Dix Park for these upcoming sessions. Please visit our website to view the specific routes, event details, and full schedule. We look forward to seeing you there with your helmets ready for an afternoon of cycling fun and community engagement.

Embark on an invigorating outdoor journey at Crowder County Park during our upcoming Hike with a Naturalist event. This guided exploration invites participants aged eight and older to traverse the park's scenic landscapes, providing a unique opportunity to uncover the diverse flora and fauna thriving within our hardwood forests. Led by our knowledgeable naturalist staff, you will learn about local ecosystems while enjoying a refreshing mile-long trek across natural surfaces. Please ensure you wear closed-toe shoes and bring a full water bottle to stay hydrated during this active excursion. This event is designed to foster a deeper appreciation for the natural world in a fun and educational setting. Whether you are a budding biologist or simply looking for an active way to enjoy the spring season, this guided hike offers something for everyone. Space is limited for this popular program, so we encourage you to register promptly to secure your spot. Visit the Crowder County Park website to complete your registration and prepare for an unforgettable adventure. We look forward to seeing you at the Heron Shelter for this exciting nature experience.