Taylor Academy of Dance presents Wunderland and Legends

Escape the hustle of urban life and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of William B. Umstead State Park. We invite adults, children, and families to participate in the Curious Minds Trail Adventure, a digital scavenger hunt designed to turn your hiking experience into an interactive scientific expedition. As you traverse the scenic trails and explore the serene manmade lakes, you will search for native wildlife and plant species, such as the marbled salamander or the unique Jack-in-the-Pulpit, while engaging with the Piedmont East Science Trail. To join this adventure, simply download the Actionbound app on your smartphone, where no personal profile or data collection is required. You can begin your quest by scanning the park QR code or searching for the location within the app. This engaging experience is available daily from 8 AM to 8 PM throughout the month of April. Whether you are a local enthusiast or a visitor, this scavenger hunt offers a perfect opportunity to discover the hidden treasures of Wake County. Plan your visit today and experience a refreshing, rustic journey through one of our most cherished outdoor retreats.

Experience the magic of literature combined with the beauty of the outdoors this April through the Wake County Parks StoryWalk series. These interactive displays allow families to enjoy a children book while exploring various park trails. It is an ideal way to combine physical activity with early literacy, encouraging children to engage with storytelling while immersed in nature. From the American Tobacco Trail to Lake Crabtree and beyond, several park locations will feature unique book selections throughout the month. Each StoryWalk is carefully curated to provide an educational and memorable experience for visitors of all ages. Whether you are walking through the historic grounds of Oak View or exploring the natural landscapes at Yates Mill, there is a path waiting to be discovered. We invite you to visit these parks between April 1 and April 30 to participate in this wonderful community initiative. Plan your family outing today and discover the joy of reading under the open sky. For specific locations and park operating hours, please visit the official Wake County Parks website to map out your next adventure.

Join us for an exciting day dedicated to financial literacy at our Teach a Child to Save event. This interactive experience is designed to help children understand the fundamental concepts of earning, spending, sharing, and saving money in a way that is both educational and fun. Through a series of engaging games and hands-on activities, participants will gain valuable insights that will serve them well as they grow. We are proud to collaborate with esteemed local partners including Bank of America, Fifth Third Bank, F and M Bank, NC 529, and North State Bank. These industry experts will be on site to provide practical tips and clever tricks to make money management feel like second nature. It is a fantastic opportunity for families to learn together in an environment that fosters curiosity and confidence regarding personal finance. This event is included with your general admission to the museum, making it an accessible day of discovery for everyone. We invite you to bring the whole family to explore these essential life skills while enjoying everything else our exhibits have to offer. Plan your visit today and help your child build a strong financial foundation.

Experience the vibrant sounds of the season at Downtown Cary Park with our popular Live at Lunch music series. We are excited to invite the community to Academy Plaza for an afternoon of exceptional live entertainment featuring the talented Ed Kincade. Whether you are looking to enjoy a relaxing lunch break under the sun or simply want to immerse yourself in the local music scene, this event provides the perfect backdrop for your day. Join us from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. to experience the energy and atmosphere that makes Downtown Cary Park a premier destination for residents and visitors alike. This concert series is completely free to the public, offering a wonderful opportunity to support local artists while enjoying the beautiful outdoor spaces of our park. We encourage you to bring your friends, coworkers, or family to enjoy these midday melodies. Please visit the official Downtown Cary Park website to view our full calendar of upcoming performances and learn more about other free community gatherings. We look forward to seeing you there and making your afternoon truly memorable.

Experience the ultimate elevated social scene as The Westin Raleigh-Durham officially reopens its iconic rooftop lounge for the 2026 season on April 16. Perched high above the city, this premier destination offers a sophisticated backdrop to enjoy expertly crafted cocktails and curated small bites. Guests are invited to take in the breathtaking panoramic views and witness planes gliding gracefully toward the runway, creating a unique atmosphere that perfectly captures the spirit of the Triangle. To celebrate the season, the venue is hosting a complimentary live music series every Thursday evening from 5 to 9 p.m. This ongoing event showcases talented local artists, providing the perfect soundtrack for your after-work gatherings or weekend kickoff. Whether you are looking to unwind with friends or seeking a memorable evening out, our rooftop offers an inviting space for everyone to connect and relax. We encourage you to stay informed about our featured performer schedule by following the official Westin Raleigh-Durham account on Instagram. Join us at 3931 Macaw Street to elevate your Thursday nights with incredible music and unmatched hospitality. We look forward to seeing you on the rooftop.

Experience the vibrant spirit of Senegal at the next installment of the Live at Lake Raleigh concert series. On April 23, 2026, the acclaimed band Kaira Ba will take the stage, led by master griot Diali Cissokho. Their performance blends the traditional sounds of the kora with modern instrumentation to create an exuberant musical landscape. They will be joined by the virtuosic violinist Jennifer Curtis for a unique collaboration that you do not want to miss. This free, family-friendly outdoor event is hosted at the beautiful Lake Raleigh on the North Carolina State University campus. Gates open at 5 p.m. with local food trucks on-site, and the music begins at 6 p.m. Guests are encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs or blankets to enjoy the open-air setting. Parking is free after 5 p.m. in designated areas around Centennial Campus. Join us for a memorable evening of rhythm and community. Gather your friends and family for an unforgettable night of music under the open sky. We look forward to seeing you there.

Experience the timeless brilliance of William Shakespeare under the open sky during this exceptional evening performance at the North Carolina Museum of Art. On April 23, 2026, Carolina Shakespeare will bring classic literature to life with an immersive guided walking tour through the beautiful Museum Park. This unique production features five distinct twenty minute scenes from legendary works including Macbeth, Romeo and Juliet, and Much Ado About Nothing. Each segment is performed in full costume at specific outdoor stations, allowing attendees to engage with the drama in a breathtaking natural setting. This event is completely free and designed to be accessible for everyone looking to enjoy high quality theater in the heart of Raleigh. Whether you are a dedicated fan of the bard or simply looking for an enchanting evening outdoors, this production promises to be an unforgettable experience. Performances begin every half hour starting at 6 p.m. and conclude at 8:30 p.m. We invite you to join us for an evening of culture and community. Mark your calendars and prepare to be transported through the dramatic world of Shakespeare.

Experience a breathtaking tribute to the creative spirit of the nation with the Carolina Ballet as they present Celebration of America at the Raleigh Memorial Auditorium. This mixed repertory program is anchored by the iconic George Balanchine work Stars and Stripes and serves as a magnificent showcase of two hundred and fifty years of American artistry. Audiences will be treated to a diverse musical landscape featuring celebrated American composers such as John Philip Sousa, Philip Glass, and George Gershwin. Each ballet featured in this production offers a unique and evocative reflection on our collective history, present vitality, and future aspirations. Through masterful choreography and expressive movement, the dancers bring the essence of American creativity to life on stage. This is a must see event for dance enthusiasts and those looking to immerse themselves in a high quality cultural experience that highlights the richness of our heritage. Join us for this spectacular performance and secure your tickets today to ensure you do not miss this limited engagement celebrating the artistic journey of the United States.

Experience the enchantment of a timeless classic as the Carolina Youth Ballet brings the beloved story of Cinderella to the prestigious Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts. Set to the evocative and masterful score by Sergei Prokofiev, this production captures the grace, heartbreak, and ultimate triumph of a young woman destined for greatness. Our dancers have dedicated countless hours to perfecting every movement, ensuring a performance that is as technically impressive as it is emotionally resonant for audiences of all ages. Whether you are a lifelong fan of ballet or looking for a special outing with your family, this production offers a perfect escape into a world of magic and wonder. Witness the stunning choreography and beautiful artistry that bring this iconic fairy tale to life on our main stage. Join us for an unforgettable evening or matinee experience that celebrates the power of dreams and the beauty of classical dance. Tickets are currently available for purchase through our website, so please secure your seats early to ensure you do not miss this limited engagement event.