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
- 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
- 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
Fundraisers & Benefits
Charity events, fundraisers, galas, and benefit performances.
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Mac Saturn Live
at Cannonball Music Hall, Midtown Raleigh
Mac Saturn is a Detroit rock band performing a live concert to support the non-profit organization Darkness to Light. For every ticket sold, fifty cents will be donated to this cause, directly funding efforts to protect children from sexual abuse. This event serves as both an energetic showcase of local music and a commitment to meaningful social advocacy.
Fans can expect a high energy performance featuring the band's signature blend of Motown infused grooves and soulful rock. The set list includes tracks from their debut album Hard To Sell and popular hits like Diamonds and Mr. Cadillac. The performance showcases the group's tight musical brotherhood and professional musicianship, honed through years of collaboration in the Detroit music scene.
This show is ideal for fans of modern rock who appreciate fresh vitality and live instrumentation. Attendees will enjoy an upbeat atmosphere that transforms the venue into an active dance floor. By purchasing a ticket, you support both a rising rock band and an important charitable mission. Join Mac Saturn for a night of music, resilience, and community impact.
Little Fentonians Touch-a-Truck
at Fenton Square, Cary
Little Fentonians Touch-a-Truck is a community event held in Fenton Square that allows children to explore large emergency vehicles and enjoy interactive transportation activities. This morning event serves as an engaging opportunity for families to learn about local safety services while enjoying outdoor fun in a centralized town location.
Attendees can climb aboard a real Cary Fire Department fire engine and interact directly with officers from the Cary Police Department. Children can also take a ride on a trackless fire truck that travels along Main Street. These hands-on experiences are designed to provide a close look at vehicles that kids often see from a distance. The event also facilitates a charitable component by collecting school supply donations to support educational needs within Wake County.
This event is tailored for young children with an interest in large vehicles and public service equipment. The atmosphere is energetic and provides a high level of engagement for curious minds. We invite families to bring their children for an educational morning and encourage everyone to contribute supplies to support local students before the upcoming school year.
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Paint & Sip Cat Portrait Workshop
at Purr Cup Cafe, South Raleigh
Paint and Sip is a guided art workshop where you will create a custom portrait of a cat. Led by local artist Taylor Varron, this session provides step by step instruction to help you complete your own piece of artwork regardless of your prior painting experience.
During the event, you will receive all necessary painting supplies to use throughout the session. Beyond the canvas, you are invited to spend time interacting with the resident cats at the cafe. This event directly supports a charitable cause, as a portion of every ticket sale is donated to the SPCA of Wake County. You may also purchase drinks and treats from the cafe menu during the class.
This workshop is open to participants of all skill levels who enjoy creative activities and animals. The atmosphere is casual, welcoming, and perfect for individuals or groups looking for a relaxing way to spend time. Space is limited to ensure quality instruction for every attendee. Reserve your spot today to enjoy a unique evening of art and local community support.
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Millbrook United Methodist Church Food Pantry
at Millbrook United Methodist Church, Raleigh,
The Millbrook United Methodist Church Food Pantry is dedicated to supporting our local community by providing essential food resources to those in need. Located at 1712 East Millbrook Road in Raleigh, our pantry operates every Saturday from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. to ensure that individuals and families have access to nutritious groceries. We believe in providing a welcoming environment for all, operating on a first come first served basis, and we invite neighbors to visit us up to twice per month to receive assistance.
To access our services, please park in the lot off Old Wake Forest Road and proceed up the walkway to the courtyard. We encourage you to follow the Millbrook Food Pantry Facebook page for the latest updates on our weekly inventory and any holiday closures. Whether you are looking for support or searching for ways to contribute, your involvement strengthens our mission. Learn more about volunteering opportunities or how to make a donation by visiting our website at millbrookumc.org/food-pantry. We look forward to serving you and working together to combat food insecurity in our vibrant community.
Oak & Iron Impact Series
at Waverly Place, Cary
The Oak and Iron Impact Series is a community fitness initiative designed to combine high-energy movement with meaningful social contribution. Participants engage in a professionally led workout session while raising funds and awareness for local charitable causes. This event serves as a platform to foster community wellness and collective responsibility.
Attendees can expect a structured, full-body circuit training session tailored to accommodate diverse physical abilities. The program includes warm-up routines, guided strength and endurance intervals, and a communal cooldown period. Experienced coaches lead every segment to ensure safety and proper technique throughout the morning. Water stations and recovery resources are provided on site to support all participants during the session.
This event is open to everyone, regardless of current fitness level or previous experience. We maintain a supportive and inclusive atmosphere where individual progress is celebrated and team spirit is encouraged. Whether you are an experienced athlete or just starting your fitness journey, your participation makes a tangible difference. Register today to secure your spot and help us reach our impact goals through the power of movement.
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CosPaws for a Cause: Pet Parade & Fundraiser
at Dix Park - Blair Dr. Entrance, West Raleigh
CosPaws for a Cause is a community pet costume parade and fundraiser designed to assist a local individual facing significant medical expenses. This gathering unites animal lovers to provide financial support through a collective community effort. The event focuses on combining charity with public engagement to ensure those in need receive necessary aid during a difficult time.
Participants can look forward to a vibrant pet costume parade and a competitive contest. The program includes raffle drawings featuring items donated by local businesses and creators, as well as interactive community voting sessions to determine contest winners. These activities offer a structured way for attendees to engage with the fundraiser while enjoying an entertaining afternoon dedicated to pets and creative expression.
This family friendly event is perfect for pet owners, animal enthusiasts, and community members looking to make a positive impact. Expect a welcoming atmosphere filled with creativity, compassion, and shared goals. We invite you to join us in supporting a neighbor in need while celebrating the special bond between pets and their owners. Register your costumed pet today to contribute to this meaningful cause.
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Chapel Hill Community Food Distribution
at Eubanks Road Park and Ride Lot, Chapel Hill,
Join the Town of Chapel Hill and the Food Bank of Central and Eastern North Carolina for our recurring community food distribution events. These essential gatherings are held on the second and fourth Wednesday of every month, providing supplemental support to anyone in our community who needs a helping hand. We invite all neighbors to stop by the Eubanks Park-and-Ride Lot located at 2000 Eubanks Road to receive assistance and connect with our dedicated team of local volunteers.
To ensure a smooth experience for everyone, please remember to bring one or two boxes or bags with you when you arrive at 9:30 a.m. This initiative is a wonderful way to foster community spirit while ensuring that no one in our area goes without basic necessities. We are currently seeking energetic volunteers to help us manage these distributions, so please consider signing up to make a difference.
If you require more immediate or ongoing food support, we encourage you to visit the Food Bank website to locate an agency near your specific zip code. We look forward to seeing you there and working together to support our neighbors in Chapel Hill.
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Parktown Food Hub Open Distribution Day
at Parktown Food Hub, Durham,
The Parktown Food Hub serves as a vital community resource dedicated to alleviating hunger and combating food insecurity throughout South Durham. By fostering strong partnerships and utilizing local resources, the organization provides essential support to neighbors in need through regular, accessible food distribution events. These gatherings are held on the second and fourth Thursday of every month, offering a reliable safety net for those facing difficult circumstances. No appointments or documentation are required to participate, ensuring that every member of the community can access the assistance they need with dignity and ease.
We invite you to join us at 5124 Revere Road in Durham to take advantage of this support or to learn about various volunteer opportunities. Whether you are looking to receive items or contribute to the mission through donations, your involvement helps strengthen our local network. Please remember to verify the schedule on the official Facebook page or website before your arrival to account for any potential updates. We look forward to welcoming you and working together to build a healthier, more nourished community for everyone involved.
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Steam Shop Saturday at New Hope Valley Railway
at North Carolina Railway Museum & New Hope Valley Railway,
Steam Shop Saturday is a unique behind the scenes event held at the New Hope Valley Railway on July 25. This program invites the public to interact directly with the volunteer steam crew to learn about the mechanics and operation of historic steam locomotives. Guests will gain insight into the ongoing restoration efforts of locomotive number 17 and witness the expertise required to maintain these vintage machines. Attendees can watch demonstrations of the maintenance process and ask questions about the technical side of railroading. The day features two scheduled train rides at 10:30 am and 12:00 pm. Please note that all train rides will be pulled by diesel engines as locomotive 17 remains under active restoration. This event is ideal for families, history enthusiasts, and anyone curious about how steam engines function. It provides a rare opportunity to see the hard work involved in rail preservation while supporting a meaningful cause. Tickets for the event are available for purchase directly on the official Triangle Train website. Join us for an educational morning dedicated to the history and future of steam railroading.
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Millbrook United Methodist Church Food Pantry
at Millbrook United Methodist Church, Raleigh,
The Millbrook United Methodist Church Food Pantry serves as a dedicated resource for the Raleigh community, providing essential nourishment to those in need. Located at 1712 East Millbrook Road, this pantry operates every Saturday morning from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. to ensure equitable access to healthy food options. Individuals and families are welcome to visit twice per month, with assistance provided on a convenient first come, first served basis to keep the process efficient and welcoming for every guest.
Our mission is rooted in community support, and we invite you to take advantage of this vital resource whenever you find yourself in need. Please note that while we strive for consistent weekly operations, there are occasional exceptions throughout the year. We encourage all participants to follow our official Facebook page for the most current updates on weekly offerings and scheduling adjustments. If you are looking to make a positive impact, please visit our website to learn more about how you can volunteer your time or provide donations to sustain our efforts. We look forward to supporting our neighbors.
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Earlybirds Club
at Lincoln Theatre, Downtown Raleigh
Earlybirds Club is a dance party specifically curated for women and gender-expansive individuals. This event provides a safe and inclusive environment designed to celebrate community through music and movement. Attendees can dance to a variety of popular tracks spanning the 80s, 90s, and 2000s, including pop, hip-hop, new wave, and R&B music performed by DJ Krystyle. Beyond the music, the experience focuses on creating a judgment-free space where guests feel free to express themselves authentically. The event emphasizes comfort and joy, encouraging participants to enjoy the night in sensible footwear while connecting with others. Choosing to attend this event directly supports a charitable cause, as ten percent of all ticket proceeds benefit the Susie Lee Legacy Fund. This fund provides essential support to nonprofit organizations dedicated to uplifting women and gender-expansive communities. All individuals regardless of their background are welcome to participate. Please note that purchasing a ticket signifies consent to be photographed for promotional media. This event is an ideal choice for anyone looking for a supportive atmosphere, meaningful music, and an opportunity to contribute to local social advocacy.
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46th Crape Myrtle Festival Grand Gala: A Royal Affair
at Tempo by Hilton Raleigh Downtown, Downtown Raleigh
The 46th Crape Myrtle Festival Grand Gala invites you to A Royal Affair featuring the highly anticipated Queens Reveal. This annual celebration serves as a vital fundraiser to support our local community initiatives through the Crape Myrtle Festival organization. Held each year on the final Saturday of July, the event honors our long standing history while looking toward the future of our charitable efforts.
Attendees can expect an evening of pageantry and entertainment centered around the official reveal of the new Queens. The program highlights include formal presentations, musical performances, and networking opportunities within a vibrant setting. Guests will enjoy a sophisticated environment designed to celebrate excellence and dedication to our collective cause during the peak of the summer season.
This event is perfect for community members, local supporters, and those who appreciate grand celebrations with a philanthropic focus. The gala offers a refined atmosphere conducive to meaningful interaction and shared joy. We invite you to secure your tickets now to participate in this significant milestone. Join us for an unforgettable night of elegance and community impact.
The Witch's Carnival
at Chapel of Bones, West Raleigh
The Witch is Carnival is a fundraising event supporting local mutual aid organizations through a day and night of community centered entertainment. This event combines a family friendly daytime market with an adults only evening showcase to foster local resilience and education.
Daytime activities feature interactive games, diverse food vendors, and a curated market showcasing handcrafted art and occult inspired goods. Guests are encouraged to wear whimsical costumes for a chance to win creative contests. As night falls, the atmosphere shifts into an adults only experience highlighted by live music, drag shows, burlesque, and circus performances. All programming focuses on artistic expression and community connection.
This event is perfect for families during the day and adults looking for unique live entertainment in the evening. By attending, you contribute directly to organizations providing vital mutual aid and educational resources. Embrace the spirit of the season, support a meaningful cause, and experience a day of magic and community impact. Join us to celebrate local talent and help strengthen our community foundations through this one of a kind event.
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CosPaws for a Cause Pet Parade and Costume Contest
at Dorothea Dix Park,
Join us for the inaugural CosPaws for a Cause, a heartwarming community pet costume parade and fundraiser taking place on August 8, 2026, at the beautiful Dorothea Dix Park in Raleigh. This exciting event invites pet owners to dress up their furry friends and participate in a festive parade, all while supporting a meaningful mission. The proceeds from this event go directly toward assisting Tati, a dedicated pet owner facing significant medical challenges and expenses. Whether you choose to register your pet for the costume contest or simply attend to cheer on the participants, your presence makes a difference in supporting a neighbor in need.
Enjoy an evening filled with creative costumes, community camaraderie, and fantastic raffle prizes in the scenic setting of the Magnolia Room outdoor gazebo. This event is a wonderful way to connect with fellow pet lovers while contributing to a vital cause. Contestant registration is strictly limited, so be sure to secure your spot early to guarantee your participation. We look forward to seeing you and your pets for an unforgettable evening of joy and generosity.
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Chapel Hill Community Food Distribution
at Eubanks Road Park and Ride Lot, Chapel Hill,
Join the Town of Chapel Hill for our consistent food distribution events aimed at supporting our neighbors and fostering a stronger, healthier community. Held on the second and fourth Wednesday of every month at the Eubanks Park and Ride lot, these supplemental distributions provide essential resources to anyone in need. We work in close partnership with the Food Bank of Central and Eastern North Carolina to ensure that fresh and reliable food options remain accessible to all residents throughout the region.
We invite you to participate in this impactful initiative, whether you are looking for assistance or eager to give back to your local area. Please remember to bring one or two boxes or bags to help carry your items. If you are passionate about service, we encourage you to sign up to volunteer and assist our dedicated team in coordinating these efforts. For those requiring more immediate or ongoing support, please visit the Food Bank website to utilize their comprehensive agency locator tool. Together, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of our fellow community members by ensuring everyone has access to the nutrition they need to thrive.
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Parktown Food Hub Open Distribution Day
at Parktown Food Hub, Durham,
The Parktown Food Hub serves as a vital community pillar dedicated to alleviating hunger and combating food insecurity throughout the South Durham region. By hosting regular distribution events, this organization provides essential nutritional support to neighbors in need, fostering a stronger and more resilient community for everyone. We invite you to join us for our open distribution sessions, which take place on the second and fourth Thursday of every month. No prior appointments or documentation are required to participate, making it easy to access fresh resources when you need them most.
Our mission thrives on the generosity of our supporters and the dedication of our volunteers. Whether you are seeking assistance or looking for an impactful way to give back through donations, your involvement makes a tangible difference. We encourage all community members to stay connected with our latest updates, schedule adjustments, and upcoming opportunities by visiting our official website or following our social media pages. Please verify our calendar before arriving to ensure you have the most current information for your visit. We look forward to welcoming you to our Revere Road location soon.
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Millbrook United Methodist Church Food Pantry
at Millbrook United Methodist Church, Raleigh,
The Millbrook United Methodist Church Food Pantry serves the Raleigh community by providing essential food resources to those in need. Located at 1712 East Millbrook Road, this initiative operates every Saturday from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., offering a welcoming space where neighbors can receive support twice per month. The process is straightforward, utilizing a first come, first served model to ensure equitable access for all individuals and families seeking assistance during challenging times.
To participate, please park in the designated lot off of Old Wake Forest Road and proceed up the walkway to the courtyard. This program relies on the generosity of the local community, and we invite you to explore opportunities for volunteering or making tax-deductible donations by visiting our website at millbrookumc.org/food-pantry. We encourage you to follow our official Facebook page for the most current updates regarding weekly availability, special holiday closures, and featured food items.
We are dedicated to combating food insecurity through compassionate service. Join us this Saturday to access the resources you need or to learn how you can contribute to this vital community effort. Your support makes a significant difference for local families.
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Chapel Hill Community Food Distribution
at Eubanks Road Park and Ride Lot, Chapel Hill,
Join the Town of Chapel Hill and the Food Bank of Central and Eastern North Carolina for our recurring community food distribution events. Held twice monthly, these supplemental gatherings are designed to provide essential support to all neighbors in need. We invite you to visit the Eubanks Park-and-Ride Lot on the second and fourth Wednesday of each month at 9:30 a.m. Please remember to bring along one or two boxes or bags to help transport your items efficiently.
Our mission is to foster a supportive environment for everyone in the community. Whether you are seeking assistance or looking to give back, your presence is valued. We are always seeking enthusiastic volunteers to help facilitate these distributions, so please sign up if you have time to contribute. For those requiring more immediate or ongoing food assistance, we encourage you to visit the official Food Bank website to locate an agency near your specific zip code. We look forward to seeing you at our next event as we continue working together to strengthen our local community support networks.
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Parktown Food Hub Open Distribution Day
at Parktown Food Hub, Durham,
The Parktown Food Hub serves as a vital pillar in the South Durham community, dedicated to alleviating hunger and providing essential nutritional support to those in need. This community-based partnership offers a reliable resource for individuals and families facing food insecurity by hosting regular open distribution events. These sessions represent a compassionate effort to ensure that fresh and necessary food items reach those who require them most in a supportive and welcoming environment.
Events are held on the second and fourth Thursday of each month, starting at 4:30 p.m. and continuing until supplies are exhausted. No appointments or documentation are required to participate, making this a truly accessible resource for all members of the community. We encourage you to check the official Parktown Food Hub Facebook page and website calendar before visiting to confirm the schedule and view the latest updates regarding distribution opportunities.
Your presence and support truly make a difference in our mission. Whether you are seeking assistance or interested in learning about volunteer opportunities, we invite you to join us at 5124 Revere Road in Durham. Help us build a stronger, healthier community together.