The Road From Emancipation to Freedom

Bridge Fellowship Church is hosting a FREE Vacation Bible School for kids this summer in Southeast Raleigh! Dates: June 22–26, 2026 Times: 6:00–8:00 PM each evening Location: 3060 Hammond Business Place, Suite 121, Raleigh, NC 27610 Cost: Completely FREE and open to all families in the community Ages: Kindergarten through 6th Grade Five nights of Bible stories, worship, crafts, games, and fun built around one big idea — God is bigger than your kids can imagine, and He sees and loves every one of them. Register free (takes 2 minutes): https://bridgefellowshipraleigh.churchcenter.com/calendar/event/223010145 Questions? Call 919-679-1222 or visit bridgefellowshipchurch.com

The Juneteenth Celebration at The Pines is a community event held at Carolina Pines in partnership with the Human Relations Commissions. This gathering commemorates Juneteenth by bringing neighbors together for an evening of entertainment and cultural appreciation. The event is open to the public and offers a welcoming space for community members to connect and celebrate. Attendees can expect a variety of entertainment including DJ sets and live performances from local musicians. The program features interactive activities such as line dancing and sing along sessions. Visitors will find food trucks on site along with various informational tables and photo opportunities. Families with children ages 5 to 12 can utilize the Kidz Zone, which provides supervised games, arts and crafts, and snacks. Please note that parents or guardians must sign children in and out of this area. This event is designed for people of all ages who value community engagement and local culture. The atmosphere is energetic and inclusive, making it an ideal outing for families and friends. We invite you to join us for this meaningful celebration of history and unity.

Join the Orange County community as we kick off our 2026 Juneteenth celebrations with a meaningful Opening Ceremony: Honoring the Fight for Freedom. This inspiring event takes place on Friday, June 12, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at the David Price Farmers Market in Hillsborough, North Carolina. This gathering serves as an educational and reflective tribute to the historical significance of Juneteenth while building momentum for our upcoming cultural festivities. Following the morning ceremony, we invite you to continue the celebration at our Evening Block Party held at the Eno Arts Mill. This vibrant event features local artists, makers, and small business owners, accompanied by live music and family-friendly activities. We are pleased to offer a complimentary meal ticket to the first 150 guests in attendance. Whether you are coming to learn, connect with neighbors, or simply enjoy the atmosphere, these events provide a wonderful way to commemorate freedom and unity in our region. We encourage you to register online today to secure your spot for this important community milestone. We look forward to seeing you there.

Join the Orange County community in Hillsborough, North Carolina, for a vibrant and meaningful celebration of Juneteenth on Friday, June 12, 2026. This festive evening block party serves as a tribute to freedom and history, offering an inclusive space for neighbors to come together. The event will be hosted at the Eno Arts Mill from 6 to 9 p.m., featuring an impressive showcase of local artists, talented makers, and small businesses. Attendees can enjoy live music, engaging family-friendly activities, and a welcoming community atmosphere. Whether you are coming to appreciate the local culture or simply enjoy a night out, there is something for everyone to discover. To add to the excitement, the first 150 guests will receive a complimentary meal ticket to enjoy during the celebration. Please remember to bring your folding chairs and favorite outdoor games to make the most of the evening. This event is entirely free to attend, making it a perfect opportunity to honor our history while supporting local talent. We look forward to seeing you there to commemorate this significant milestone. Register today to secure your spot for this memorable celebration.

This educational session explores transition options for seniors when living at home is no longer a viable or safe choice. Hosted by Rick Messemer from Carolina Estate Counsel, the presentation provides a clear roadmap for navigating the complexities of senior housing and long-term care decisions. Attendees will gain a comprehensive understanding of various senior living environments including assisted living, memory care, and independent communities. Rick will outline the financial, medical, and lifestyle considerations essential for making informed choices. The session focuses on simplifying the transition process and helping families identify the right fit for their specific health and social needs. This event is designed for seniors, adult children, and caregivers who are beginning to plan for future housing changes. The atmosphere is open, supportive, and informative, encouraging attendees to ask questions and participate in an honest dialogue. Join us to remove the uncertainty from these difficult life transitions and gain the confidence needed to make proactive plans. Please reserve your spot today to ensure you have the necessary information to support your loved ones effectively.

Music and Me is an interactive morning event hosted at Holl and Stone Farms designed to foster early childhood development through music and movement. This outdoor program provides a welcoming space for children aged five and under to engage with song, rhythm instruments, and storytelling alongside their caregivers. The session begins with a forty-five minute teacher-led music class. Participants will engage in hands-on activities that support development through creative movement and collective play. After the music segment, attendees are encouraged to explore the farm grounds, browse the onsite store, and enjoy refreshments including coffee and adult beverage specials provided by the venue. Ice cream will also be available for purchase to round out the experience. This event is perfect for families seeking an active and educational morning in a relaxed, scenic environment. It offers a unique opportunity for both children to learn and caregivers to connect with other local families. We invite you to join our community for this morning of discovery and fun. Please visit the Surround Sound School of Music website for additional information regarding private lessons.

Join us for an exclusive wine tasting pop-up featuring industry expert Michele D'Aprix-Cary. This event focuses on sampling a curated selection of excellent summer wines while learning about the art of winemaking from a seasoned professional. It is a unique opportunity to taste four distinct labels accompanied by a specially selected snack pairing. Attendees will benefit from Michele's extensive expertise. Originally from upstate New York, she transitioned from bartending in Boston to professional winemaking after earning a degree in Viticulture and Enology from UC Davis. Throughout the session, she will share her journey and insights, providing a technical yet accessible perspective on the wines being poured. Her background in organic chemistry and viticulture adds a fascinating layer to the tasting experience. This event is ideal for wine enthusiasts looking to deepen their knowledge in a relaxed, social setting. Whether you are a casual sipper or a dedicated connoisseur, you will find value in the thoughtful pairings and professional guidance provided. We invite you to secure your spot today to enjoy this educational afternoon of discovery and refreshment. We look forward to welcoming you to the shop for this special guest appearance.

Join our enthusiastic team of children booksellers every Saturday, Sunday, and Monday morning for an enchanting literary experience at Quail Ridge Books. Our Under the Tree Storytime is designed to ignite the imaginations of young readers by exploring faraway lands, traveling through time, and discovering the magic within beloved classic stories and exciting new releases. This recurring event offers a wonderful opportunity for families to come together and celebrate the joy of reading in a cozy, welcoming environment that appeals to children of all ages. Each session lasts approximately thirty minutes, providing a perfect bite sized adventure for your little ones. We kindly ask that parents remain with their children throughout the reading to ensure a shared experience. To maintain a comfortable space for all our guests, please park your strollers outside the store entrance before heading in. We invite you to bring your family to share in these creative moments and help us foster a lifelong love of literature. Visit us this weekend to find your next favorite story and join our vibrant community of book lovers.

This free event brings families together while supporting child literacy, meaningful connection, and whole-family health. Each session includes stories, hands-on activities, and a free book for every child. Join us for our next Storytime on June 8th from 3:30-5pm. We strongly encourage registering for each event to ensure we have enough space available for attendees.

Join Queenin LLC every Monday at Overtime Sports Pub in Raleigh for an engaging evening of connection and friendly competition. Our Pull Up and Play community game night is designed to bring neighbors together in a welcoming, lively environment where everyone has a seat at the table. Whether you are a seasoned player or a beginner, you will find plenty of excitement as we rotate through popular favorites like Spades, Dominoes, Uno, and Taboo. This event is more than just a series of games; it is an opportunity to foster real community, create lasting memories, and share positive energy through laughter and conversation. There is no cost to participate, making it an accessible way to enjoy your Monday evening and meet new friends in the area. While you enjoy the friendly challenges, you can also explore the menu offerings at Overtime Sports Pub. We invite you to step out of the house and experience the warmth of our local community. Gather your friends or come solo to enjoy a night of social fun and lighthearted play. We look forward to seeing you there.

Experience a powerful journey through history at Historic Stagville in Durham. As the site of one of North Carolinas largest plantations, this location offers a profound look into the lives of the over nine hundred enslaved people who lived and labored here. Through these immersive Emancipation tours, you will uncover the complex stories of how formerly enslaved families claimed their freedom in 1865, searched for lost kin, and redefined their lives amidst the power dynamics of the era. Throughout June 2026, guests are invited to participate in these guided walking and driving tours that explore both indoor and outdoor historic sites. We encourage you to join us for our special Juneteenth commemoration on June 19, where guided tours are offered free of charge to the public. These tours provide an essential educational opportunity to reflect on love, loss, and the enduring spirit of resilience. We invite you to visit our website to secure your tickets for our Wednesday sessions or plan your arrival for the Juneteenth first-come, first-served schedule. Come witness history and gain a deeper understanding of our shared past today.

Discover the profound stories embedded in the landscape of Historic Oakwood Cemetery, a stunning seventy-two acre sanctuary in the heart of Raleigh. With a legacy spanning over 140 years, this site serves as the final resting place for numerous governors, senators, and historical figures who helped shape the state and national landscape. The grounds offer a park-like atmosphere perfect for peaceful reflection and intellectual discovery. The Stroll Through History series invites you to engage with local narratives through informal, guided tours held on the second and fourth Thursday of every month. Each session features unique research and untold stories, allowing participants to explore different sections of this storied landscape in a small group setting. These sessions are tailored to the interests of the group, ensuring a dynamic experience for both first-time visitors and history enthusiasts. We encourage you to join us for an enlightening morning walk through this local treasure. Admission is free, making this an accessible opportunity to learn about the rich heritage preserved within our community. Visit our official website today to view the full calendar of dates and secure your spot for an upcoming tour.

This audio described tour provides a guided experience of the Knowing the West exhibition. It is designed to make the diverse collection of over 120 works accessible to visitors who are blind or have low vision. Participants will explore a wide range of artistic media including Native American and non Native American textiles, baskets, paintings, pottery, sculpture, beadwork, and saddles. The tour offers detailed verbal descriptions of these items to provide a clear understanding of the craftsmanship and cultural perspectives on display. Each object is presented to help visitors engage with the complex history and artistry of the American West. This program is specifically tailored for those who benefit from audio description, ensuring an inclusive and reflective environment for all attendees. The session fosters a deep connection to the artwork through descriptive language and expert insight. Please note that capacity is limited to ensure a quality experience for every guest. If you have any specific requirements or advance questions, please contact the program coordinator before your arrival. Join us for this unique opportunity to experience these significant artistic contributions in an accessible setting.

The Queer Professional Happy Hour at Bitter Social is an inclusive networking event designed for LGBTQ+ professionals, creatives, and entrepreneurs. This gathering provides a dedicated space for community members to build meaningful personal and professional relationships in a relaxed, social setting. Participants can enjoy an evening focused on authentic connection rather than formal networking. You will have the opportunity to meet potential collaborators, clients, and peers within the local business community. Drinks and food will be available for purchase from Centro, featuring exclusive happy hour specials. Beyond the social benefits, the event supports a larger cause. Bitter Social will donate twenty percent of all drink sales directly to the LGBT Center of Raleigh. This is an ideal environment for those looking to expand their professional circle or simply enjoy a night out with like-minded individuals. The event is strictly for guests aged twenty-one and older, and there is no cover charge for entry. We look forward to seeing you upstairs at Bitter Social for an evening of community, conversation, and collective support.

The Juneteenth Celebration at The Pines is a community event held at Carolina Pines in partnership with the Human Relations Commissions. This gathering commemorates Juneteenth by bringing neighbors together for an evening of entertainment and cultural appreciation. The event is open to the public and offers a welcoming space for community members to connect and celebrate. Attendees can expect a variety of entertainment including DJ sets and live performances from local musicians. The program features interactive activities such as line dancing and sing along sessions. Visitors will find food trucks on site along with various informational tables and photo opportunities. Families with children ages 5 to 12 can utilize the Kidz Zone, which provides supervised games, arts and crafts, and snacks. Please note that parents or guardians must sign children in and out of this area. This event is designed for people of all ages who value community engagement and local culture. The atmosphere is energetic and inclusive, making it an ideal outing for families and friends. We invite you to join us for this meaningful celebration of history and unity.

RELOADED is a Pride celebration hosted by Alt Shift Collective that centers and honors Black queer identity. The event takes place at Bitter Social to facilitate a night of community, music, and joy. Attendees can look forward to a high energy atmosphere featuring sets by DJ Gemynii, DJ Desipher, and DJ SandyJ. The music and programming are curated to provide a safe and vibrant environment for dancing and connection throughout the evening. This event specifically prioritizes Black queer folks, though it remains open to anyone who enters with a commitment to respecting the people, the culture, and the purpose of the space. Whether you attend with a group or arrive solo, you will find a welcoming atmosphere dedicated to celebrating Pride. Tickets are required for entry and can be purchased through the official Alt Shift Collective website. Please ensure you secure your spot in advance to join this celebration of identity and community.