Events Calendar for the Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill area
- 4th of July Fireworks & Celebrations
- African-American Heritage
- America’s 250th
- Annual Events
- Arts
- Beer & Brewery
- Black History Month Events
- Bluegrass Music
- Classes & Workshops
- Colleges & Universities
- Comedy Shows
- Live Music & Concerts
- Dance Performances
- Dining & Drinks
- Education Outreach
- Esports & Gaming
- Community Fairs
- Family Events
- Local Farmers Markets
- Farm Experiences
- Festivals
- Film & Cinema
- Free Events
- Free Food Events
- Fundraisers & Benefits
- Historic Events
- Holiday Events
- Kids Night Out Events
- LGBTQ+ Events
- Mother’s Day Events
- Multicultural Events
- Museum Programs & Exhibits
- Nature & Outdoor Events
- Nightlife
- Open House Events
- People-First Tourism
- Raleigh Locals Guide
- Running & Races & Marathons Events
- Shopping Events
- Sports & Athletics
- Spring Festivals
- Team Building
- Theater & Performing Arts
- Tours
- Wellness Events
Upcoming Featured Events
The best upcoming events you won't want to miss
-
Queen Bee Bash
706 Gilbert Street, Durham, NC 27701
Join SEEDS for a free, family-friendly celebration of spring and all the amazing moms, mother figures, and caregivers in our lives!
Enjoy a day in the garden with: arts and crafts, music, acraft market, food and drink, a raffle, live bee hive demonstrations from Buddha Bee Apiary, and more!
-
•
-
Artsplosure: The Raleigh Arts Festival
Downtown Raleigh, Fayetteville Street, Raleigh, NC
Get ready to experience the vibrant spirit of creativity at Artsplosure, the premier Raleigh Arts Festival returning to downtown on May 16 and 17, 2026. This dynamic event transforms Fayetteville Street into a bustling hub of imagination, featuring the exceptional work of over 175 juried fine artists and skilled craftspeople. Attendees can explore a diverse array of media across ten unique categories, with every masterpiece available for purchase to take home a piece of local culture.
Beyond the incredible art displays, Artsplosure offers an engaging atmosphere filled with live music, interactive installations, and tailored kids activities designed to inspire visitors of all ages. Whether you are a dedicated art collector or simply looking for an entertaining weekend outing, this festival celebrates the heart of our community through a festive blend of entertainment and artistry. We invite you to join us for this highly anticipated seasonal event to support talented creators and enjoy the beautiful downtown surroundings. Please visit the official artsplosure.org website for the most up to date schedule and additional information regarding this exciting celebration.
African-American Heritage
Events celebrating African-American culture, history, and achievements in Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill.
-
Top Greene’s “Adornment of Grace” Hat Show Contest
at John P. "Top" Greene African American Cultural Center, Downtown Raleigh
The Adornment of Grace Hat Show at Top Greene is a celebration of Black culture and the long-standing tradition of hat-wearing. This event honors history and artistry through style, creativity, and self-expression. Participants are invited to wear their favorite hats to join a friendly competition for a chance to win a free three-hour rental at the venue. This gathering explores the intersection of heritage and fashion in an engaging environment. Attendees will experience a curation of vintage hats from the Mary Corbett Hat Collection. The program features guest speaker Dr. Donna Corbett and showcases unique sculptures by artist Erica Kendrick. Guests can expect a blend of fashion, fine art, and cultural storytelling throughout the event. This show is designed for anyone who appreciates bold design, generational style, and artistic expression. It serves as a space for community connection and creative appreciation. Please come prepared to showcase your best headwear and engage with fellow guests in a lively atmosphere. We look forward to seeing your personal style on display at this celebration of elegance and tradition.
-
She Sings, She Speaks: Beneath the Skin with Nnenna Freelon
at North Carolina Museum of Art; West Building, NCMA Café, West Raleigh
Join seven-time Grammy-nominated artist Nnenna Freelon for an evening dedicated to Mental Health Awareness Month. This event explores the profound intersection of creativity and healing through music, spoken word, and personal narrative.
Nnenna Freelon draws from her recent book Beneath the Skin of Sorrow to facilitate a moving discussion on love, loss, and the role of artistic expression. The program incorporates jazz traditions and Black cultural heritage to illustrate how creative practice can provide a framework for processing grief. Attendees will experience a performance that blends storytelling with musical improvisation, creating an intimate space for reflection.
This event is designed for anyone interested in the therapeutic power of the arts or the lived experience of grief. The atmosphere will be welcoming and thoughtful, encouraging meaningful dialogue among the audience. Following the presentation, participants are invited to enjoy refreshments while engaging in an author signing session. Special book pricing will be available for those who wish to take home a copy of her work. Secure your spot now to be part of this unique opportunity to connect with a celebrated artist and storyteller.
From Irving Berlin to Louis Armstrong: Celebrating the Jewish Songwriters and African American Performers Who Shaped American Music
at North Carolina Museum of Art, East Building, SECU Auditorium, West Raleigh
This concert explores the historical collaboration between Jewish composers and African American performers who defined the American musical landscape. The program highlights the cultural exchange that produced some of the most influential jazz, Broadway, and Great American Songbook standards of the 20th century.
The performance features the Joe Alterman Quartet with special guest Christian Tamburr on vibraphone. Musicians will perform classic tracks from legendary figures including Irving Berlin, George Gershwin, Duke Ellington, and Louis Armstrong. Each set combines musical performance with storytelling to illustrate how these partnerships fostered artistic innovation and enduring legacies in modern music.
This event is ideal for music enthusiasts, history buffs, and anyone interested in the social impact of collaborative art. The atmosphere is vibrant, educational, and focused on celebrating the creative power of unity. Attendees can expect a high-energy evening that bridges the gap between historical context and live jazz performance. We invite you to join us for an evening of insight and entertainment that honors the pioneers of American music. Secure your spot now to experience this celebration of cultural synthesis and artistry.
-
African American Festival
810 N. First Ave., Knightdale, NC 27545
The African American Festival is a vibrant community gathering designed to celebrate and honor the rich heritage, history, and contributions of African American culture. This event serves as a dedicated space for cultural appreciation and connection within our community. Attendees are invited to experience a day full of meaningful engagement and collective celebration. Guests can explore a wide variety of activities throughout the day. The festival features live music performances, diverse craft vendors showcasing unique creations, and access to essential community resources. Food enthusiasts can also enjoy a selection of delicious cuisine. These elements combine to create a comprehensive showcase of local talent and tradition. This event is open to people of all ages and backgrounds who wish to learn and celebrate together. The atmosphere is family friendly and welcoming to all guests. We encourage you to join us for this special occasion to support local vendors, enjoy quality entertainment, and foster a deeper sense of community connection. Mark your calendar and prepare to be part of an uplifting experience that highlights the excellence and spirit of the African American community.
-
Juneteenth Celebration 2026
at Parrish Womble Park, Holly Springs
The Town of Holly Springs and the Holly Springs MLK Committee invite the public to our annual Juneteenth Celebration 2026. This community gathering commemorates the historical significance of Juneteenth while fostering unity and education through local celebration and cultural appreciation. We invite all residents to join us in observing this important milestone of freedom and progress together in an engaging environment.
Attendees can look forward to a diverse range of activities suitable for all ages. The event features a curated selection of local artisan and food vendors showcasing unique goods and flavors. Families will appreciate our dedicated free kids zone, which includes inflatable attractions and various yard games for children to enjoy. Throughout the day, the stage will host live music and community performances designed to inspire and entertain participants.
This event is designed for community members of all backgrounds who wish to celebrate shared history in a positive, inclusive atmosphere. Whether you are coming to browse local crafts, enjoy live entertainment, or simply connect with your neighbors, this celebration offers something for everyone. Mark your calendars and join us for this meaningful community occasion.