This weekend in Chapel Hill, NC

A celebration of everything that belongs on the grill, offering a farmers market nod to North Carolina barbecue. The event features samples, educational activities, and other experiences centered on barbecue.

A weekly market at Hub RTP brings together the South Durham farming community and local artisans. Its mission is to connect the community with high quality locally grown food while advancing farmland preservation and care for the local environment through sustainable agricultural practices. Visitors can meet the farmers who grow the fruits and vegetables they buy and explore distinctive creations from local artisans. Whether seeking fresh ingredients or aiming to support local businesses and sustainable farming, there is something for everyone. For weekly vendor details and special happenings, check the market’s calendar on its website.

Lore Con 2026 arrives at the Durham Convention Center in Durham, NC for two days dedicated to storytellers, creators, and community. Expect panel discussions, a marketplace of vendors and artists, gaming, cosplay, and more. Billed as a long awaited convention for the Southeast, it offers fans a place to connect over all things lore. Tickets are available.

Discover what to plant for the fall at the Morrisville Education Garden in a class that combines learning with hands-on practice. Each session starts with a 30-minute lesson, then moves into guided work in the garden. It is a good time to transplant pac choi and bok choi. Some sessions may offer giveaways or simple take-home projects. All ages are welcome, and participants under 13 must attend with a registered adult.

William & Mary faces Duke in an early-season football matchup at Wallace Wade Stadium. Contrasting approaches on both sides could lead to big momentum shifts and opportunities for individual stars to shine. The stage is set for a competitive game with plenty of storylines unfolding on the field.

Via Textricis hosts Mortali-Tea, a Pagan-focused Death Cafe conversation at Panera Bread. This gathering creates a supportive space to speak openly about death and related subjects from a Pagan perspective. The Death Cafe model began in the UK in 2011 to offer safe places for people to discuss end-of-life matters, and it has expanded to nearly 19,000 gatherings across 91 countries. In the local area there are general Death Cafes in Raleigh and Hillsborough, along with a Queer Death Cafe at Arcana, and this offering is shaped specifically around the needs of the Pagan community. Participants can expect an open, wide-ranging dialogue where experiences, questions, and reflections are welcome.

A summer cruise-in for car enthusiasts features a roomy, shaded parking area and lively music. Guests can take part in a 50/50 and enjoy the convenience of a Chik-fil-A located just across the street.

Sufi Roots & Rhythms turns Boxyard RTP into a journey through groove-centered Sufi and Hindustani traditions alongside the resonant tones of the Senegalese kora, spotlighting artists based in North Carolina. The program features the Diali Cissokho Trio. The trio unites three globally recognized musicians whose collaboration draws on deep cultural foundations and West African rhythms and instruments to bridge cultures. Their shared commitment to music’s ability to connect people shapes an experience that feels both grounded and expansive. Diali Cissokho, a Senegalese kora virtuoso and percussionist, descends from a long Manding griot lineage, stewards of history and storytelling. Will Ridenour, a Greensboro-based kora player and percussionist, embraced West African music after a formative encounter with traditional dance. Atiba Rorie, a percussionist and founder of the multi-genre group Africa Unplugged, has trained with masters including Bradley, Simmons, Babatunde Olatunji, and Chief Bey. Together they offer a cross-cultural performance that uses the universal language of music to foster connection and inspiration. Attendance implies consent to be photographed or recorded, and Boxyard RTP may use photos, video, or audio featuring attendees in any medium for any purpose.

Make time for hands-on creativity in a shared space for arts and crafts, then head to the outdoor patio to watch local fire artists in a lively fire spinning jam. Admission is free.

Word Jazz brings Actors Improv’s blend of unscripted theater and music back to Sharp Nine. Drawing on Ken Nordine’s landmark 1957 album, the performance unfolds through scenes sparked by improvised monologues and the live sound of a five-piece band, with on-the-spot songs woven into the mix and audience suggestions setting everything in motion. The quintet features Ricky Bloomfield on reeds, Rob Ladd on drums, Robbie Link on bass, Glenn Mehrbach on piano, and Scott Sawyer on guitar. Actors Improv, recognized as the South’s longest-running improv company, anchors the collaboration.

Sawyer Hill takes the stage at Cat’s Cradle with a sound shaped by a teenage start sneaking into bars and a rise sparked by the breakout single “Look at the Time.” With more than 130 million streams and video views close to a quarter of a billion, he has carried his music across the United States and Europe, including sellouts at LA’s Troubadour and NYC’s Bowery Ballroom, along with an extensive run supporting Yungblud. His new album, Everybody’s Home, Nobody’s Happy, reflects both the perspective earned on the road and a surprising pull toward home that surfaced each time he left Arkansas. To refine its voice, he collaborated in Los Angeles with Mike Crossey, Chris Greatti, and Ryan Linville, whose credits include The 1975, Arctic Monkeys, Poppy, Yungblud, Olivia Rodrigo, and Dermot Kennedy. Hill aims to be the steady presence he once found in his own heroes, speaking to loners and doubters, and to the Southern kid who is told to keep quiet about feelings.

This prenatal yoga class is designed for expectant participants. An experienced instructor offers thoughtful guidance and fosters a supportive environment to move safely and connect body and mind during pregnancy. It takes place on the first and third Sunday mornings of each month. Attend a single session or choose a package.

Experience an outdoor yoga session set among the vines at Zinc House Winery & Brewery. Sharon MacGregor, founder of Serenity Farm Yoga Sanctuary and the 26-acre Serenity Farm retreat center, leads Flow & Grow, a beginner friendly class that links breath with movement, with a slightly brisker tempo, optional gentle chaturangas, and variations for every level. The winery’s 87-acre property, with vineyards, walking trails, rooftop decks, and striking event spaces, provides a calming backdrop to pause and reset. After class, post-practice options include browsing Tip-Z Boutique, enjoying gourmet coffee or a bite from a food truck, sipping something bubbly or another refreshing drink, playing a round of cornhole, and taking in vineyard views with new or longtime friends. Please bring a yoga mat, comfortable clothing, and water. An eye cover is optional, and a cushion for the knees such as a towel is encouraged. This class takes place outdoors.

The Durham Armory sets the scene for a Cottagecore take on the Durham Geek and Grub Market, a free, woodland-themed marketplace with more than 40 whimsical geeky vendors, food trucks, special guests, and storybook-inspired activities surrounded by mushroom motifs, meadow vibes, and cozy cottage aesthetics. Guests can start at the main entrance check-in, where kids receive a complimentary treat and details for a no-cost scavenger hunt. Track down eight cottagecore Gambits, then stop by the HQ desk to claim a prize. The indoor Geek Tavern serves non-alcoholic themed mocktails and other beverages. No tickets are required. The event is fully accessible. Street parking is plentiful with weekend free options, and nearby garages offer paid parking. Only service dogs are allowed. A vendor list and map will be posted online ten days in advance, and a detailed schedule will follow soon.

The Noble Queen Summit provides a welcoming space for women of color to reflect on and refine self care practices through speakers with an enterprising focus, interactive sessions, and connections to local resources. Tickets include access to a self care panel, entertainment, networking opportunities, lunch, giveaways, and retail therapy. A strict dress code is in place, with magenta pink and white cocktail attire required. For sponsorship opportunities, email info@shopnoblecompanion.com.

A free beginner trial of Systema takes place at Triangle Aikido. This Russian martial art offers a holistic approach for mind, body, and spirit, combining martial arts with elements of yoga, massage, and meditation in a practical format. Instruction emphasizes intuitive self protection and natural responses while building strength, flexibility, and a more relaxed relationship with stress. The core of the practice is efficient, free movement supported by solid structure and low tension. Through a progressive approach, participants develop awareness, adaptability, and composure so they can remain centered and responsive in challenging or unpredictable situations. Training varies from session to session, and everyone works at a comfortable pace with attention to movement quality, efficiency, and understanding. Classes often open with breathing, movement, and conditioning drills rooted in Russian martial arts to release mental and physical tension and build resilience. Work then progresses into rolling, falling, groundwork, and movement drills organized around central themes. NC Systema is an officially recognized Systema Vasiliev school, and instructors are certified annually by the headquarters in Toronto. Questions can be directed to taylor@ncsystema.com.

Alfred Hitchcock’s Stage Fright (1950, 110 minutes) screens at The Carolina Theatre of Durham as part of the Alfred Hitchcock Film Series. Set in London’s theater world, the story follows aspiring actress Eve Gill, who poses as a maid to the glamorous Charlotte Inwood after Charlotte’s husband is killed and Jonathan, her lover, is suspected. As disguises multiply and loyalties shift, appearances deceive and the line between performance and truth turns dangerous. Marlene Dietrich, Jane Wyman, and Richard Todd headline, with Dietrich featured in musical numbers. Admission is $12 per person.

This inclusive woodworking class welcomes people who have not always seen themselves represented in the craft, including those who identify as women, nonbinary, LGBTQIA+, and individuals who are neurodiverse or physically differently abled. Led by instructors with nontraditional backgrounds, the session introduces core techniques, explores adaptive methods, and builds confidence with tools in the shop and beyond. All experience levels are welcome, and the series can be taken more than once since each class features a different project. For this session, participants will create an entryway organizer. The cost is $75 and advance registration through the organizer’s website is required. Wear closed-toe shoes and avoid loose clothing or jewelry. All tools, materials, and safety gear are provided. Cancellations are fully refundable up to seven days before the class, and registrations can be transferred within the same timeframe. There are no refunds or transfers within seven days of the class.

Enjoy a relaxed Paint Nite at Hi-Wire Brewing Durham, where a professional artist guides you through an 11x14 inch canvas while you explore proven techniques and make the artwork your own. It fits a date night, a meetup with friends, a celebration, or some well-earned self care. The bar offers 20 taps along with draft cocktails, well drinks, mocktails, and other nonalcoholic choices. There is no kitchen on site, so outside food is welcome and takeout is a great option. Food and beverages are not included in the painting price. The session lasts two hours and begins right on time, so arriving about 15 minutes early helps you settle in and place drink orders. All painting supplies are provided. Advance registration is required, and the event may be canceled if minimum bookings are not met 48 hours beforehand. Early bird pricing is sometimes available in advance.

A weekly Sunday salsa social that has been running since 2009 and is now in its 18th year. The evening opens with a basic salsa lesson, then continues with social dancing until close. The music mix leans heavily toward salsa, nearly as much bachata, and a few selections of cha cha, kizomba, merengue, and cumbia. Admission is 10 dollars, with an 8 dollar rate for active military and students who show ID. Guests 17 and under enter free with an accompanying adult, or 5 dollars if attending on their own. Many DJs can accept Venmo and credit cards, though bringing cash is recommended since card payments may include a small additional fee. The DJ rotation typically follows the Sunday of the month and is subject to change, with Jack Wolf, also known as DJ Abuelo Salsero, on the first Sunday, Michael Delucia, also known as DJ Salsa Mike, on the second, DJ Pedro Paz on the third, and Eliuth Cruz Lopez, also known as DJ Monte Alban, on the fourth, while fifth Sundays rotate among these four. For those new to Triangle Dance Studio, the building has no sign and appears as a two story cream colored house next to Research Triangle Dental with a prominent sign. For questions, contact Jack Wolf at jackhwolf49@gmail.com or 919-245-8393 for the landline or 743-208-5497 for the mobile.

A welcoming karaoke night led by Empress, a dynamic vocalist with commanding stage presence who sets the vibe from the first song. Expect everything from show-stopping numbers to delightfully off-key renditions, all celebrated in a no-pressure atmosphere. The format embraces shower singers, seasoned pros, and enthusiastic non-singers alike. Enjoy a drink, cheer on the mic-takers, and watch the room build into a lively party.