We Gather Anyway

Carolina Kitty Con is a two day festival celebrating everything related to felines. It serves as a comprehensive hub for pop culture enthusiasts, cat rescuers, educators, and pet owners throughout the Southeast region. The event promotes feline welfare while fostering a community for those who share a passion for cats. Attendees can participate in educational workshops, rescue advocacy programs, and interactive entertainment sessions. The festival features guest speakers, local cat creators, and various exhibits focused on feline health and lifestyle. Visitors will find vendors offering cat themed merchandise along with opportunities to connect with regional shelters and adoption specialists. These activities provide a structured way to learn about responsible pet care while engaging with current trends in the cat community. This event welcomes lifelong cat owners, shelter volunteers, artists, and curious individuals alike. The atmosphere is intended to be inclusive, informative, and highly engaging for all participants. Whether you are seeking expert advice on feline behavior or simply want to connect with fellow enthusiasts, Carolina Kitty Con offers a unique space for discovery. Plan your visit today to join this gathering dedicated to celebrating and supporting our feline companions.

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

Join the Dr. M. T. Pope House Museum for an educational and reflective celebration of Juneteenth. Located at 511 S. Wilmington Street in downtown Raleigh, this historic site invites the community to explore the powerful narrative of Dr. Manassa T. Pope and the broader experiences of free African Americans in North Carolina. Throughout the week of June 13 to June 21, 2026, special guided tours will delve into the resilience and contributions of the Pope family and other individuals who stood for freedom and equality during a transformative era in American history. These tours are offered free of charge, ensuring that this vital history remains accessible to all visitors. Whether you are a local resident or a visitor to the Triangle, this is a profound opportunity to engage with local heritage and honor the significance of Juneteenth. We encourage everyone to take advantage of this unique cultural experience. Please visit our official website to confirm tour times and plan your visit today. We look forward to welcoming you to the museum for this commemorative week of learning and reflection.

Celebrate the significance of Juneteenth at Historic Oak View County Park with an engaging storytime session designed specifically for children ages four to nine. This educational event invites young participants to learn about the history of freedom from slavery through the powerful children book Opal Lee and What It Means to Be Free by Alice Faye Duncan. During the session, families will visit the historic 1870s tenant house to gain insight into the lives of newly emancipated people, fostering a deeper understanding of this vital chapter in American history. To conclude the experience, each child will create a unique Juneteenth flag craft to take home as a commemorative reminder of the day. This event offers a meaningful way to honor resilience and joy in an accessible, family friendly environment. Please note that while this program is free, advance registration is required for all attendees to ensure a quality experience for everyone. We encourage you to visit the official website today to secure your spot and participate in this important community celebration of history and heritage.

Celebrate the spirit of freedom at the Dr. M. T. Pope House Museum located in the heart of Raleigh. From June 13 to June 21, 2026, the museum invites the community to experience exclusive tours dedicated to the observance of Juneteenth. These educational sessions provide a unique opportunity to explore the resilience of the Pope family and the historic struggles faced by free African Americans in North Carolina during the nineteenth century. Each visit offers a profound glimpse into the lives of those who navigated the complex social landscape of the era, honoring their pursuit of liberty and equality. The museum remains open for these special events daily, excluding Mondays, and attendance is free of charge to ensure that this vital history remains accessible to all. Whether you are a local resident or a visitor to the Triangle area, these tours provide an engaging and reflective experience for history enthusiasts of all backgrounds. We warmly encourage you to visit the museum this June to participate in this meaningful commemoration. Please plan your visit today to honor this significant chapter of our shared national heritage.

Box Making for Beginners is a two day hands on workshop designed to teach fundamental woodworking skills. You will learn to construct a small keepsake box while mastering core techniques applicable to larger cabinetry projects. This course provides a structured introduction to woodshop practices in a supportive environment. Over two consecutive sessions you will gain experience in essential construction stages. Day one focuses on project design, processing raw wood, and initial assembly. On day two you will explore various finishing techniques, learn to construct a custom lid, and apply decorative elements to your project. These skills form the foundation for all future woodworking endeavors. This class is perfect for beginners who want to build confidence with shop tools and complete a tangible project. Please note that participants must have prior table saw experience or have completed our woodshop intro course before attending. Join us to develop your craft and create a professional quality box. Register now to secure your spot in this productive and rewarding two day learning experience.

Artful Story Time combines literature and visual arts to create an engaging experience for young readers and their families. This recurring program encourages children to observe, listen, and move while making meaningful connections between original works of art and children's books. Each session features rotating readers to provide fresh perspectives. This month, the session centers on a construction theme. Attendees will examine the sculpture Please Be Seated North Carolina and observe our active construction site. Participants will meet a member of our construction team to learn about the machines, trucks, and tools used on the job. Please bring hard hats to enhance the immersive experience as we connect art to the building process. This event is designed for families with children who enjoy interactive storytelling and hands-on learning. The atmosphere is energetic, welcoming, and educational, making it a perfect opportunity to explore the museum grounds in a new way. We invite you to join us for this unique blend of art and industry. Check our schedule to confirm the date and prepare for an morning of discovery.

Unleash your musical potential with free ukulele lessons hosted by Raleigh Parks, Recreation and Cultural Resources. Designed specifically for adults ages 18 and older, this four-week workshop series offers a welcoming environment to master the fundamentals of music and ukulele performance. Whether you are a complete beginner or looking to refresh your skills, instructor Keith provides expert guidance on essential chords and notes, ensuring you gain the confidence to jam with others comfortably. Sessions will be held every Wednesday from May 27 to June 17, 2026, at the Five Points Center for Active Adults in Raleigh. Do not worry if you do not own an instrument, as some extra ukuleles will be available for participants to use during class. This is a fantastic opportunity to dive into a fun, new hobby while connecting with the local music community. Registration is required to secure your spot in this popular program, so please sign up as soon as possible to ensure your participation. We look forward to helping you start your musical journey and seeing you at the center for these engaging sessions.

Baseball Shuffle is an all-ages social event hosted at the Cedar Point Club. This interactive party game provides a fun environment for participants to play, compete, and meet new people in the community through the spirit of baseball. We combine lighthearted competition with social interaction to create a unique experience for every guest. Participants can expect a series of structured games designed to get everyone involved regardless of their skill level. The event features interactive stations where you will rotate through different challenges, earn points, and team up with other attendees. Our staff coordinates the activities to ensure the pace remains steady and engaging throughout the session. No professional baseball experience is required to participate in these activities. This event is perfect for individuals, families, and groups looking for an active way to spend their day. The atmosphere is friendly, welcoming, and inclusive for all ages. We encourage you to bring your energy and get ready to connect with fellow fans of the game. Secure your spot today to join the fun at the Cedar Point Club for this upcoming sports party event.

Dairy Queen is helping fans cool off this summer with an incredible deal on their refreshing beverage lineup. From June 15 to June 21, 2026, DQ Rewards members can purchase a medium DQ Sparkler or DQ Cooler for just fifty cents at participating locations nationwide. This limited time offer provides a significant discount on these handcrafted treats, which are usually priced much higher depending on the specific location. Choose between the bubbly DQ Sparkler, made with sparkling water and ice, or the creamy DQ Cooler, which blends signature soft serve with Misty Slush. With flavor options including Classic Lemonade and the new Hibiscus Lemonade, there is something for everyone to enjoy during this week long celebration. To participate in this refreshing promotion, ensure you are signed up for the official DQ Rewards program. The deal is limited to one beverage per member each day, making it the perfect excuse to visit your local Dairy Queen all week long. Join the rewards program online today to start saving on these delicious summer beverages.

Join us for a Lunchbox Lecture dedicated to exploring the rich LGBTQIA+ history embedded within the streets of Raleigh. This presentation examines a new collaborative project between North Carolina State University graduate students and the City of Raleigh to document local heritage through digital tools. Attendees will learn about the process behind creating interactive story maps that spotlight significant historical sites and community milestones. You will gain a deeper understanding of the local narratives that shaped the city as we showcase these two unique digital resources for the first time. The session features a presentation by Katie Bushman, who will provide a firsthand look at how these maps were curated and why they are essential for preserving our shared history. This event is open to students, history enthusiasts, and anyone interested in the evolving cultural landscape of Raleigh. Whether you are a local resident or a visiting scholar, this lecture offers an accessible entry point into modern public history practices. Bring your own lunch and enjoy an hour of informative community storytelling in a relaxed environment. We invite you to attend this engaging session to celebrate local history and support the voices that define our vibrant capital city.

The Juneteenth Celebration at Marbles Kids Museum and Moore Square is a community event commemorating freedom through education and joy. This gathering serves as an inclusive space for neighbors to come together, honor history, and celebrate the ongoing journey toward equality. Attendees can expect a vibrant lineup of activities suitable for all ages. Throughout the day, visitors can engage with local artists, enjoy scheduled story times, and explore a curated vendor market organized by Taste of BLK. The event also features diverse food truck offerings, interactive games, and live music performances. It provides a unique opportunity to experience cultural programming in an accessible outdoor and indoor environment. This celebration is designed for families and individuals looking to connect with their community in a meaningful way. The atmosphere is energetic, welcoming, and focused on shared learning experiences. Please note that while the festivities are open to the public, museum admission is not included with the general event attendance. We invite you to join us for a day of community pride and cultural appreciation in the heart of the city.

Celebrate Juneteenth by attending an educational program exploring the legal journey and historical significance of this holiday. This event offers a unique opportunity to understand the evolution of freedom in the United States through a professional legal lens. Special Deputy Attorney General Torrey Dixon will deliver the second installment of a two-part series. As a former civil rights attorney born in Danville, Virginia, he will provide deep insights into the legal milestones that shaped Juneteenth. Attendees can expect a presentation that combines historical analysis with spoken word to create an engaging experience. The City of Raleigh Museum and the Capital City Lawyers Association are hosting this informative session. This event is open to anyone interested in American history, legal progress, and the ongoing journey toward equality. The atmosphere is professional and thought-provoking, making it an excellent choice for those seeking to deepen their understanding of civil rights. We invite you to join us for this meaningful exploration of our shared history. Please plan to join us at the City of Raleigh Museum to gain new perspectives on this significant national celebration.

The NC State University Ghost and Urban Legend Tour is a guided walking experience that explores the mysterious folklore and supernatural history of the campus. Participants will walk through university grounds while learning about the eerie stories that have been passed down through generations of students and faculty. This tour highlights specific historical sites associated with local legends. You will hear detailed accounts regarding the university underground tunnels, the legend of a long dead nurse still tending to patients, and the persistent rumors that the campus itself was cursed at its founding. The tour focuses on providing documented historical context alongside these famous campfire tales. This event is designed for students, local residents, and history enthusiasts who enjoy a mix of storytelling and campus exploration. The atmosphere is engaging and educational, perfect for those curious about the darker side of university lore. Attendees should prepare for significant walking across campus, so comfortable footwear is strongly recommended. Space is limited for each session, so please register in advance to secure your spot for an evening of campus exploration and spooky local history.

The Early Summer Birding Adventure is an educational morning walk through Downtown Cary Park designed to explore the local avian population. Participants will learn about the diverse species that inhabit the urban green space during the summer months. Dr. Patrick McMillan, a horticulturist and naturalist, will lead the session. He will provide expert insights into the behavior, habitats, and identification of the ninety six species currently documented in the park. Attendees will navigate the park grounds to observe birds in their natural environment, gaining a deeper understanding of how the landscape supports this ecosystem. The session combines active field observation with practical knowledge shared by a seasoned professional. This event is open to birding enthusiasts of all skill levels, from curious beginners to experienced observers. The atmosphere is casual, informative, and focused on discovery. You will leave with a greater appreciation for the wildlife integrated into our downtown community. Please wear comfortable walking shoes and bring binoculars if you have them. Register online to secure your spot for this unique look at the park and join us for an engaging morning in nature.

The Early Summer Birding Adventure is an educational morning walk through Downtown Cary Park designed to explore the local avian population. Participants will learn about the diverse species that inhabit the urban green space during the summer months. Dr. Patrick McMillan, a horticulturist and naturalist, will lead the session. He will provide expert insights into the behavior, habitats, and identification of the ninety six species currently documented in the park. Attendees will navigate the park grounds to observe birds in their natural environment, gaining a deeper understanding of how the landscape supports this ecosystem. The session combines active field observation with practical knowledge shared by a seasoned professional. This event is open to birding enthusiasts of all skill levels, from curious beginners to experienced observers. The atmosphere is casual, informative, and focused on discovery. You will leave with a greater appreciation for the wildlife integrated into our downtown community. Please wear comfortable walking shoes and bring binoculars if you have them. Register online to secure your spot for this unique look at the park and join us for an engaging morning in nature.

Unlock the fascinating world of mathematics at the upcoming Math Makers program hosted at the beautiful Dix Park. This engaging series is designed to ignite curiosity by blending playful exploration with the natural and cultural wonders of the outdoors. Participants will work together to construct unique creations that demonstrate mathematical principles in action, making abstract concepts feel tangible and exciting for everyone involved. Whether you are building structures or observing patterns in nature, this program provides a hands-on learning environment that encourages creative problem solving and collaboration. As a special takeaway, every participant will receive an exclusive math kit to continue their journey of discovery at home long after the session ends. This program is made possible through the generous support of the Dix Park Conservancy donors, ensuring it remains completely free to the public. Space is limited for these interactive sessions, so please ensure you register early. Registration opens exactly two weeks prior to each event date at noon. We invite you to join us for this energetic experience and sharpen your math skills in a refreshing park setting.

Join local potters Amy and Jim from Sawdust and Clay for a creative workshop focused on glazing and painting custom ceramic mugs. This hands-on session invites you to personalize a pre-made, hand-thrown mug that you can cherish as a functional piece of art in your home. During the workshop, you will select your favorite mug shape and choose from a variety of colors to create a unique design. No prior pottery experience is required, making this an accessible session for all skill levels. After you finish your design, we will professionally glaze and kiln-fire your mug in our studio. Your finished piece will be ready for pickup approximately three weeks after the event. This class is open to anyone looking for a relaxing, artistic environment to unwind and create. You are welcome to bring your own snacks and beverages, including wine or beer. Each attendee must purchase an individual ticket to participate. The workshop requires a minimum of six participants and is capped at twelve to ensure personal guidance. Reserve your spot today to enjoy this meaningful and creative experience.

The NC State University Ghost and Urban Legend Tour is a guided walking experience that explores the mysterious folklore and supernatural history of the campus. Participants will walk through university grounds while learning about the eerie stories that have been passed down through generations of students and faculty. This tour highlights specific historical sites associated with local legends. You will hear detailed accounts regarding the university underground tunnels, the legend of a long dead nurse still tending to patients, and the persistent rumors that the campus itself was cursed at its founding. The tour focuses on providing documented historical context alongside these famous campfire tales. This event is designed for students, local residents, and history enthusiasts who enjoy a mix of storytelling and campus exploration. The atmosphere is engaging and educational, perfect for those curious about the darker side of university lore. Attendees should prepare for significant walking across campus, so comfortable footwear is strongly recommended. Space is limited for each session, so please register in advance to secure your spot for an evening of campus exploration and spooky local history.

The Zentangle Basics Workshop is an introductory class led by Certified Zentangle Teacher Jennifer Seiger. This session teaches the Zentangle method, which combines mindful meditation with structured pattern drawing to help participants reduce stress and embrace a creative flow. You do not need prior artistic experience to succeed in this practice. During this two hour workshop, you will learn the core techniques required to create your own small scale works of art. Every participant receives a comprehensive kit including five tiles, a Micron pen, a pencil, a sharpener, and a tortillon. You will complete at least one finished tile during the session and leave with the materials needed to continue practicing at home. This workshop is designed for anyone looking to break from their daily routine and discover a meditative artistic outlet. We host a maximum of 12 people to ensure a personalized and supportive atmosphere. You are welcome to bring your own snacks and beverages, including wine or beer, to enjoy during the class. Please secure your spot early as tickets are required for each attendee and space is limited.

Mindful Museum is a quarterly ninety minute session that blends guided art making with mindfulness practice. The program helps participants reconnect with themselves through creative reflection in a supportive community environment. These seasonal gatherings provide a dedicated space for individuals to explore artistic expression and mental restoration. Participants engage in meditative art processes using simple materials to address specific seasonal themes. You will be guided through exercises designed to help you decompress from daily stressors and unlock your creative potential. Each session focuses on providing a structured environment where you can process your thoughts and emotions without external pressure or judgment. All necessary art supplies are provided for your convenience throughout the experience. This event is ideal for anyone seeking a break from a busy schedule or wanting to explore their creativity in a low stakes setting. The atmosphere is calm, welcoming, and intentionally inclusive for all skill levels. If you are looking for a mindful way to recharge and connect with others, we encourage you to join us for this upcoming summer session and experience the benefits of restorative art.

Join us for a community hike along the Reedy Creek and Loblolly Trail Loop at Umstead State Park. This event provides a space for sapphic individuals to connect while enjoying an outdoor workout in a supportive group environment. The trail spans four miles with an elevation gain of 377 feet and is classified as moderately challenging. We will maintain a steady pace throughout the loop without mid-hike stops. The event proceeds rain or shine regardless of weather conditions. Please note that participation is limited to 50 people and every attendee must register individually as unregistered guests are not permitted. Leashed, trail-ready dogs are welcome to join the group. This hike is intended for sapphic individuals who enjoy active outdoor settings. While children are welcome, please be aware that the terrain is hilly and trail conversations may touch upon mature or queer-specific topics. We prioritize creating a welcoming atmosphere for all participants. If you are looking to explore local trails and meet new people, we encourage you to sign up today. We look forward to seeing you on the trail.

Experience the joy of movement at our free Soul Line Dance class hosted by Calientebabe Dance and Fitness. Join us on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. at the vibrant Fenton Square in Cary, North Carolina. This high-energy session focuses on teaching rhythmic step sequences set to the soulful beats of R&B and Southern Soul music. Participants perform these choreographed routines in unison, fostering a sense of community and collective rhythm. This event is designed to be accessible for everyone, regardless of prior dance experience or current fitness level. We welcome individuals of all ages and encourage families to attend together for a fun evening of exercise and music. It is an excellent opportunity to improve your coordination, meet new friends, and enjoy the outdoors in a supportive environment. Please arrive ready to dance and bring a positive attitude. For any inquiries regarding the session, feel free to contact Rhonda directly. We look forward to seeing you there to dance the evening away and celebrate wellness together.