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Tree Walk with a Naturalist
Date and Time
September 3, 2026, Thurs., 10am-noon
Organizer
North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences
Venue
Prairie Ridge Outdoor Classroom
Location
West Raleigh
Address
1671 Gold Star Dr., Raleigh, NC 27607
(369.7 mi)
Price
Free, please register. This program is best for adults and children ages 12+
Description
Join a professional naturalist for an educational hike through the Jesse P. Perry III Arboretum at Prairie Ridge to learn local tree identification. This program offers a practical introduction to the diverse forest ecosystems found in our region.
During this one to two mile trek, participants will examine ten distinct tree species. You will gain hands-on experience identifying key characteristics of various specimens while learning biological facts about their life cycles. The session also introduces Nature’s Notebook, a collaborative citizen science project. You will discover how your personal observations of seasonal changes contribute to meaningful scientific research used by experts across the country.
This event is designed for individuals aged twelve and older who have an interest in forestry or biology. The atmosphere is casual, informative, and suited for anyone curious about the natural world. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced nature enthusiast, this walk provides valuable skills for your future outdoor explorations. Prepare for light hiking and prepare to engage with the environment in a meaningful way. Registration is encouraged to secure your spot.
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Join us on Saturday, August 29, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM at the Durham Convention Center.
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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.
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Lakeside Retreats Family Fest
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FREE Family Fest in Raleigh — Saturday, September 12!
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📅 Saturday, September 12, 2026
⏰ 8:00 AM–9:00 PM
📍 4521 Mial Plantation Road, Raleigh, NC 27610
🎟️ FREE admission
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Creek Critter Discovery with Haw River Assembly
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Attendees will gain hands-on experience collecting samples and learning how to interpret the presence of specific wildlife species. The session highlights the role of macroinvertebrates in assessing environmental integrity and provides deep insight into current regional water conservation initiatives. You will learn to use identification tools and observe the delicate balance of life residing within our local waterways.
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Free; please register
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