What to Do This Weekend
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Thorn
Date and Time
September 18, 2026, Fri., 7-10pm
Venue
Abbey Road Tavern & Grill - Cary
Location
Cary
Address
1195 W. Chatham St., Cary, NC 27513
(237.5 mi)
Price
Free
Description
Thorn is an energetic live music event dedicated to showcasing the best of rock hits. The evening provides a focused stage for high quality performances that celebrate both classic anthems and contemporary rock favorites. This event brings together fans of the genre for a night of music and shared atmosphere.
Attendees can expect a carefully curated setlist featuring powerful guitar riffs, driving percussion, and vocal performances that define the rock experience. The stage production ensures clear sound quality and an engaging visual environment that highlights the energy of each performance. Professional lighting and sound engineering are integrated to provide an immersive experience for everyone in the room.
This event is designed for rock music enthusiasts who appreciate live instrumentation and authentic sound. It offers a space to enjoy music in a community setting where the focus remains on the quality of the tracks and the skill of the performers. Whether you are a long time fan of rock music or simply looking for an engaging night out, Thorn welcomes you. Purchase your tickets early to secure your spot.
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Featured Events
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Jaipur Literature Festival
3800 Hillsborough St, Raleigh, NC 27607
The third edition of JLF North Carolina, an international edition of the renowned Jaipur Literature Festival, comes to Raleigh September 11–13, 2026, bringing the spirit of one of the world's leading literary festivals to the Triangle.
Celebrating the many arts, stories, and histories of Raleigh—the “City of Oaks”—JLF North Carolina will feature thought-provoking conversations, compelling performances, author sessions, and cultural experiences exploring literature, ideas, history, society, and the world around us. The festival will take place at Meredith College and NC State’s Institute for Emerging Issues.
The program will bring together acclaimed authors, artists, thinkers, journalists, and cultural leaders from North Carolina and around the world. The 2026 lineup includes Belle Boggs, Jeff Tiberii, Karan Mahajan, Bob Crawford, and many more.
The Jaipur Literature Festival takes place annually in Jaipur, India, and is internationally celebrated as the “greatest literary show on Earth.” Its spirit now travels through international editions across the US, UK, Canada, Spain, the Maldives, and Australia, bringing together diverse literary traditions and the unique culture of each host region.
JLF North Carolina offers readers, families, students, educators, writers, and curious minds an opportunity to discover new perspectives, hear remarkable stories, and experience the power of books and ideas right here in Raleigh.
233.8 mi
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$12.07–$56.84 per ticket, including fees & taxes
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Lakeside Retreats Family Fest
4521 Mial Plantation Rd
FREE Family Fest in Raleigh — Saturday, September 12!
Looking for a full day of family fun, creativity, connection, and outdoor adventure? Join us for the 3rd Annual Family Fest at Lakeside Retreats! Optional overnight Camping
📅 Saturday, September 12, 2026
⏰ 8:00 AM–9:00 PM
📍 4521 Mial Plantation Road, Raleigh, NC 27610
🎟️ FREE admission
Enjoy a day filled with:
🔥 Fire show
🎨 Art activities
🥋 Martial arts class
🫧 Bubbles
🧘 Yoga and sound bath
🌲 Forest bathing
🏕️ S’mores and optional overnight camping
🍴 Food trucks and vendors
💛 Sensory yurt
🎤 Guest speakers
🏆 Tug of war
…and so much more!
235 mi
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Free
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Parents Night Out: Kids Laser Tag Night
at Battle House Laser Tag - Wake Forest, Raleigh
Four hours for them. Four hours for YOU.
Drop the kids off at Battle House Laser Tag for a night packed with laser tag, pizza, a movie, and more laser tag.
Meanwhile, you can go to dinner, catch a movie, run errands, enjoy a quiet house, or simply remember what it feels like to finish a sentence without being interrupted.
Details
Ages: 7 to 13
Time: 5 PM to 9 PM
Price: $49 per child
What's Included
-4 hours total
-Approximately 3 hours of Battle House Laser Tag
-Large slice of pizza and a drink
-Movie time during dinner, then more laser tag time
For Parents: Four glorious hours where parents do not have to entertain anyone
Reserve tickets at: https://ecom.roller.app/battlehousefayetteville/parentsnightout/en-us/products
221.1 mi
•
$49
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Safe Homes, Strong Families Resource Day
Abbotts Creek Community Center, 9950 Durant Road, Raleigh, NC 27614
Safe Homes, Strong Families Resource Day is a free community event presented by PR Home Care for older adults, family caregivers, and families who want to plan ahead and connect with trusted local resources before a crisis occurs.
Meet local professionals and learn about fall prevention, aging in place and home safety, dementia and caregiver support, planning, medication safety, home organization, and other resources that can support safer, more independent living.
Aging in Place North Carolina will provide a featured presentation, “How to Safely and Comfortably Age in the Home You Love.”
The event will also include community resources, giveaways, and complimentary light refreshments while supplies last.
Free and open to the public. Walk-ins are welcome.
225.2 mi
•
Free
More events from Abbey Road Tavern & Grill - Cary
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Proton Jones
at Abbey Road Tavern & Grill - Cary, Cary
Proton Jones is a live musical performance featuring a curated selection of classic rock and pop hits. This event showcases high energy covers designed to get audiences moving and singing along to their favorite tracks from the past decades. The performance aims to provide an engaging atmosphere for music lovers looking for a night of live entertainment and nostalgia. Attendees can expect a dynamic setlist spanning multiple genres and eras. The band delivers professional musicianship with a focus on audience participation and technical precision. Expect a high quality sound experience that captures the spirit of iconic stadium anthems and chart topping radio staples. Whether you are a dedicated fan of rock or pop this show offers a balanced mix of rhythm and melody. This event is perfect for music enthusiasts who enjoy live band performances in a social setting. Bring your friends for an evening of great music and a vibrant live environment. Secure your spot now to experience these classic hits performed live by Proton Jones.
237.5 mi
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Free
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The 919 Live at The Original Abbey Road
at Abbey Road Tavern & Grill - Cary, Cary
Join us for a live music performance by local favorites The 919 at The Original Abbey Road. This event features a night of classic rock and pop hits performed live on our outdoor patio. It is designed for music lovers who want to enjoy high energy performances in a relaxed open air setting. You can expect a curated setlist of well known hits that will keep the energy high throughout the evening. The event highlights include a professional live music experience and a community atmosphere perfect for catching up with friends or meeting fellow music enthusiasts. This show is intended for local residents and fans of classic rock and pop music. We recommend arriving early to secure a comfortable spot for the performance. Feel free to bring your own chair to ensure your comfort during the set. Additional parking is available across the street at the Kindercare and the Chatham Animal Hospital. We invite you to experience this local talent and enjoy a great night of live entertainment with us.
237.5 mi
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Free
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Heart Shaped Jukebox
at Abbey Road Tavern & Grill - Cary, Cary
Heart Shaped Jukebox is a dedicated music event celebrating the greatest hits of the nineteen nineties. The evening is designed to showcase the decade that many consider the final era of truly original new music across various genres.
Attendees can expect a curated playlist featuring iconic tracks that defined the culture and sound of the nineties. The event focuses on providing a high energy environment where the music takes center stage. We will explore the diverse range of artists and anthems that made this period memorable. Whether you were a fan of alternative rock or pop hits, the set list is crafted to keep the dance floor active throughout the night.
This event is perfect for music enthusiasts who want to revisit the sounds of their youth or experience the decade for the first time. The atmosphere is social, relaxed, and focused on shared musical enjoyment. We invite you to join us for a nostalgic trip through the best of the nineties. Secure your spot today and prepare for a night of timeless music.
237.5 mi
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Free
More Beer & Brewery
Beer festivals, brewery tours, taproom events, and craft beer celebrations.
NC State Wolfpack vs Richmond Watch Party
at Tin Roof Raleigh, Downtown Raleigh
Join us for a live watch party as the NC State Wolfpack face off against the Richmond Spiders. This event provides a dedicated space for fans to gather and follow the game in a high energy environment designed for optimal sports viewing.
Attendees can expect an immersive game day experience featuring dozens of large screens to ensure every play is visible from any seat. We will serve a full menu of elevated pub fare alongside a wide selection of ice cold beverages. The venue is equipped to handle large groups and provides clear audio throughout the space to keep everyone connected to the live broadcast commentary.
This event is open to all NC State supporters and college basketball enthusiasts looking for a premier viewing location. The atmosphere is social and communal, making it the perfect spot to cheer on the Wolfpack with fellow fans. We encourage guests to arrive early to secure preferred seating before tip off. Come experience the excitement of the game with us and enjoy a high quality venue built for sports lovers.
234 mi
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Free
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Yonder Mountain String Band
at Bowstring Pizza and Brewyard, Midtown Raleigh
Yonder Mountain String Band performs a live concert showcasing their signature progressive acoustic and bluegrass sound. This event marks a celebration of their nearly three decade career and the release of their twelfth studio album titled Good As True. Fans will experience a dynamic performance that highlights the band's mastery of string music and improvisation.
The concert features a high energy setlist that balances classic fan favorites with fresh compositions from their latest record. Attendees can expect a raw and unguarded musical performance that captures the spontaneity of musicians playing in real time. The band continues to push the boundaries of traditional bluegrass, creating a unique soundscape that remains both technical and accessible for modern listeners.
This show is perfect for long time followers of the band and newcomers interested in contemporary acoustic music. The atmosphere is vibrant, communal, and centered on the musicianship that has defined the group for years. We invite you to join us for an evening of exceptional instrumental skill and storytelling. Secure your tickets soon to experience one of the most influential groups in the bluegrass scene live on stage.
232.2 mi
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$30. Outdoor show rain or shine. No refunds. No dogs. No chairs.
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Pottery Painting with Cozy Panda
at The Bike Library, Downtown Raleigh
Pottery Painting with Cozy Panda is a mobile creative workshop held at local venues in the Raleigh area. Participants choose a ceramic piece and paint it on-site during a ninety minute session. This event offers a relaxing space for individuals to engage in hands on art while enjoying drinks provided by the host venue. Attendees receive all necessary painting supplies and professional guidance from the team. The experience is self paced and designed to be accessible for all skill levels, meaning no prior artistic experience is required to participate. Because the paint sets quickly, everyone takes their finished work home the same day. This workshop is ideal for date nights, group outings, or a creative solo afternoon. Whether you are seeking a new hobby or a unique way to spend time with friends, this event provides a laid back atmosphere and a creative outlet. Join us at The Bike Library to craft your own unique piece. Secure your spot today to enjoy a memorable and artistic experience in your community.
234.6 mi
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$19.05
More Live Music & Concerts
Live concerts and music performances taking place in Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill including touring artists and local bands.
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Shows daily, Thurs.-Sat.
Hopscotch Music Festival
at City Plaza, Moore Square and venues around downtown Raleigh, Downtown Raleigh
Hopscotch Music Festival is an annual multi-day event held in Downtown Raleigh featuring a diverse lineup of musical performances. The festival returns September 10-12 and serves as a premier destination for music enthusiasts to experience live shows across multiple local venues.
Attendees can expect an extensive schedule featuring established bands alongside emerging artists from various genres. The event highlights include intimate club sets, large scale outdoor performances, and unique artistic showcases scattered throughout the downtown core. This structure allows participants to explore different neighborhoods while discovering new music and catching sets from their favorite acts.
The festival is designed for fans of live music who enjoy a vibrant and immersive city experience. Whether you are a local resident or a visitor, the event provides a unique way to engage with the Raleigh arts scene. You can purchase passes for the 2026 festival starting on May 1. Mark your calendars now to secure your access to this energetic weekend of discovery and entertainment. Join us this September for a memorable celebration of live music and community.
234.6 mi
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Visit website for current prices and ticket availability.
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Hopscotch Music Festival
at City Plaza, Moore Square and venues around downtown Raleigh, Downtown Raleigh
Hopscotch Music Festival is an annual multi-day event held in downtown Raleigh that showcases a diverse lineup of musical performances across various local venues. Scheduled for September 10 to 12, the festival serves as a cultural hub for music enthusiasts to experience live shows in the heart of the city.
Attendees can expect an extensive schedule featuring both established bands and emerging artists across multiple stages. The event spans the downtown area, allowing guests to transition easily between venues while discovering new sounds and enjoying high-quality production. Beyond the music, the festival highlights the vibrant urban environment of Raleigh, providing a unique backdrop for curated live sets and unforgettable performances.
This event is designed for music lovers who enjoy discovering new talent in an energetic, walkable city setting. The atmosphere is centered on community and exploration, making it ideal for those looking to immerse themselves in a dense weekend of live entertainment. Passes for the 2026 festival go on sale May 1. Plan your trip to Raleigh early to secure your spot for this essential musical gathering.
234.3 mi
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Visit website for current prices and ticket availability.
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Hopscotch Day Parties
at Rebus Works,
Hopscotch Day Parties at Rebus Works provide a dual day musical experience during the festival weekend. These daytime events offer an intimate setting for attendees to enjoy live performances in the heart of the city. The programming is designed to showcase diverse sonic landscapes across two distinct afternoon sessions.
Friday features the Triangle Synth Party which highlights local and regional electronic music innovators and synthesis enthusiasts. Saturday brings the Savage Knights showcase which centers on high energy performances and curated sounds from independent artists. Both events utilize the unique atmosphere of Rebus Works to create a comfortable space for discovery and artistic connection outside of the main festival stages.
These parties are intended for festival goers who appreciate underground music scenes and community driven environments. The relaxed setting provides a perfect opportunity to recharge while discovering new talent in an accessible venue. Join us this year to experience two unique lineups that capture the spirit of the local independent music scene. Admission details are available through the main festival portal so plan to arrive early to secure your spot at these popular daytime gatherings.
234.6 mi
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Free
More Free Events
Free events happening across Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill including community gatherings, live entertainment, public programs, and seasonal celebrations.
Patriot Day Ceremony
at Apex Service Memorial, corner of Saunders St. and N Salem St., Apex
The Patriot Day Ceremony is a formal community event hosted by the American Legion Post 124 to honor the lives lost and the sacrifices made on September 11, 2001. This annual gathering serves as a space for public reflection and collective remembrance of the tragic events that reshaped our nation. Attendees will join local public safety officials and members of the Town Council for a structured program of tribute. The ceremony features remarks from community leaders and local representatives who share personal reflections on resilience and national service. The environment remains solemn yet purposeful as the town comes together to acknowledge the lasting impact of that day. This event is open to all community members who wish to participate in a shared experience of gratitude and support for our first responders. Please join us for this meaningful commemoration to stand in unity with your neighbors. Your presence adds strength to our communal memory as we recognize those who serve our town and country. We look forward to welcoming you to this important local tradition of remembrance and reflection.
240.2 mi
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Free
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Durham Community Day at Museum of Life and Science
at Museum of Life+Science, Durham,
Experience a day of wonder at the Museum of Life and Science, a premier destination featuring eighty four acres of immersive discovery. Guests can explore an incredible variety of hands-on exhibits spanning physics, aerospace, and zoology. Families are encouraged to engage with nature in our butterfly house, visit the farmyard to meet alpacas and goats, or observe rescued black bears and red wolves in their habitats. This facility is designed to inspire curiosity in visitors of all ages through interactive learning.
Durham Community Days offer a fantastic opportunity for local residents to experience these world class exhibits at no cost. During these scheduled days, Durham County residents receive free admission to the museum, making it the perfect time to enjoy our walking trails, climbing structures, and scientific displays. Please ensure that all adults bring valid proof of residency to participate in this offer. Each adult may bring up to five children to join in the exploration. Visit our website to view the upcoming calendar of community days and plan your next family adventure today.
222.1 mi
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FREE
Homeschool History Day at Mordecai Historic Park
at Mordecai Historic Park, Downtown Raleigh
Homeschool History Day is an educational program hosted at Mordecai Historic Park designed to teach students about nineteenth century life. The event focuses on how both free citizens and enslaved people occupied their time outside of work hours through historical interpretation and observation.
Participants will engage in hands on activities that bring the past to life. These interactive sessions help students understand the distinct experiences that shaped daily routines during the 1800s. Through guided exploration, attendees will gain a clearer perspective on the social and labor dynamics of the era.
This program is specifically tailored for homeschool families seeking a meaningful curriculum supplement. The atmosphere is professional and focused on active learning in an outdoor historic setting. Students will walk away with a deeper appreciation for history and a practical understanding of how different groups functioned in a past society. We invite you to bring your learners to discover these stories firsthand. Please register in advance to ensure your family has a spot for this unique educational opportunity. We look forward to welcoming you to the park.
233.2 mi
More Nightlife
Nightlife events, parties, club nights, and late-night entertainment.
NC State Wolfpack vs Richmond Watch Party
at Tin Roof Raleigh, Downtown Raleigh
Join us for a live watch party as the NC State Wolfpack face off against the Richmond Spiders. This event provides a dedicated space for fans to gather and follow the game in a high energy environment designed for optimal sports viewing.
Attendees can expect an immersive game day experience featuring dozens of large screens to ensure every play is visible from any seat. We will serve a full menu of elevated pub fare alongside a wide selection of ice cold beverages. The venue is equipped to handle large groups and provides clear audio throughout the space to keep everyone connected to the live broadcast commentary.
This event is open to all NC State supporters and college basketball enthusiasts looking for a premier viewing location. The atmosphere is social and communal, making it the perfect spot to cheer on the Wolfpack with fellow fans. We encourage guests to arrive early to secure preferred seating before tip off. Come experience the excitement of the game with us and enjoy a high quality venue built for sports lovers.
234 mi
•
Free
Staind: Break The Cycle 25th Anniversary Tour
at Coastal Credit Union Music Park at Walnut Creek, South Raleigh
The Staind Break The Cycle 25th Anniversary Tour brings together a powerhouse lineup of iconic alt-rock and post-grunge bands for a night of high-energy performances. This tour marks a significant milestone for Staind as they celebrate their legendary album with a career-spanning setlist that balances heavy guitar work with emotional melodic performances. Attendees can look forward to a comprehensive musical experience featuring live renditions of classic hits.
Supporting acts include the South African rock trio Seether who bring their hard-hitting discography to the stage alongside the long-standing American band Hoobastank. The lineup is completed by Hinder known for their distinct post-grunge sound and platinum-selling anthems. Fans will experience a diverse showcase of rock history with every band delivering their signature tracks that defined the sound of the early two thousands.
This event is designed for rock music enthusiasts who appreciate the raw energy of the post-grunge era. The concert atmosphere promises a professional and powerful live environment where fans can connect with artists who shaped a decade of rock music. Secure your tickets now to be part of this special anniversary celebration and experience these influential bands live on one stage.
235.3 mi
•
$50+
Wildfire Ride
at Tin Roof Raleigh, Downtown Raleigh
Wildfire Ride makes their long awaited debut at Tin Roof for an evening of live music. This event showcases the band performing their signature sound for a night of entertainment in a premier local venue setting. Guests can expect a high energy performance featuring original tracks and fan favorites throughout the evening. The band brings a unique musical style that promises to keep the crowd engaged from start to finish. Sound quality and stage production will be optimized to ensure an excellent listening experience for everyone in attendance. This show is designed for music lovers who appreciate live performances in an intimate atmosphere. It offers a perfect opportunity to discover a new favorite act or enjoy a night out with friends. Whether you are a dedicated fan or a newcomer to their music, this performance provides an excellent way to experience the band in a live setting. We invite you to join us at Tin Roof for this special debut appearance. Arrive early to secure your spot and enjoy the full experience. We look forward to seeing you there for a night of great live music.
234 mi
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Free
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