Events in Raleigh today

Grasshopper Farms hosts its first live music event of the summer featuring Shelby Rae Marshall. Guests may bring their own chairs and unwind in the farm setting. Admission is free and family friendly. A food truck will serve classics such as grilled hot dogs and hamburgers, and the ice cream shop will be available. The day also includes complimentary access to the play area, the splash park, and the goats, creating an easygoing blend of live music and farm fun.

At the North Hills Farmers Market in Raleigh, shoppers can pick up 100% Wagyu beef and Berkshire pork, all raised in North Carolina. It is a chance to stock up for weekend cookouts, game day meals, or everyday cooking.

Get moving with a day of fitness, yoga, and creative energy at a community festival that welcomes all bodies. Since 2023, the organizers have nurtured a wellness community in Apex, and now the celebration grows with an expanded edition at Fenton in Cary. Fit + Flow at Fenton brings together physical practice and artistic expression, turning a neighborhood fitness gathering into a destination experience. The setting offers space for play, food, and plenty of movement. This is the eighth edition, with goals to become North Carolina’s largest fitness and wellness festival. Updates are shared at @peakfitevents.

Agri Supply in Garner hosts a monthly farmers market that brings together about 50 small local businesses. Set up outdoors in the store’s parking lot, the market showcases handmade goods such as soaps, toys, taxidermy pieces, crafts, jewelry, mugs, and crochet, along with farmers offering fresh produce and homemade items like eggs, bread, and vegetables. Several food trucks provide a variety of meal options while you browse. Parking is free in the Agri Supply lot. Vendor participation is free as well; those interested can call the Garner store at (919) 772-0865 and ask for event coordinator Ryan Brown to be considered for a spot, with confirmations provided after selection and outreach possible for additional dates. Plans may shift if weather affects scheduling.

Repticon Raleigh brings two days of reptiles and exotic animals to the NC State Fairgrounds - Exposition Center, showcasing live species from around the world. Explore a wide range of pets and pet care products offered directly by experienced experts, and take time to learn more about reptile care and exotic wildlife. The expo blends hands-on viewing with education and shopping for enthusiasts and newcomers alike.

Finding it tricky to build a palette around a standout fabric or finishing a quilt top that feels a little flat? This interactive workshop with Jenn G.B. focuses on practical color skills for quilters and sewists. With the Zollie Palette Scout card deck, participants practice analyzing prints, selecting supporting hues, and assembling cohesive combinations with confidence. Expect clear guidance that helps translate what a fabric suggests into balanced, reliable palettes for future projects.

Experience a monthly pop-up market at Raleigh Iron Works that spotlights local makers. Taking place on the Second Saturday of each month, this community gathering features vendors who are all artisans from the area.

Triangle Native American Society returns for its second year with a celebration of Indigenous storytelling at the Triangle Native American Film Festival. Experience Native perspectives on screen, featuring performances by Native actors and work led by Native directors at the Rialto Theatre. The program includes animated shorts, PBS-presented documentaries, and feature-length films that span genres from romance to thrillers. VIP tickets are available and include heavy hors d’oeuvres featuring Indigenous cuisine from Atkowa Catering.

Celebrate the coming 2026 to 2027 school year with a back to school bash and cookout for parents, students, and teachers. Pick up supplies and helpful information to start the year prepared, then enjoy music along with bites from the grill, snow cones, and drinks. Admission is free with registration. The event also offers an introduction to Strong Tower Christian Fellowship, a community centered on peace, love, safety, and the freedom to worship.

The Triangle Wedding Show is back for a day of wedding planning inspiration at the North Carolina State Fairgrounds. You can meet a wide range of wedding vendors, including planners, photographers, caterers, and venues. Plan to stop by the Jim Graham building to sample tasty bites and use the event to book your dream wedding team.

Featuring Perdomo Cigars, this casual gathering includes cigars and deals. Guests are welcome to bring a chair to sit comfortably and relax during the event.

Geared to intermediate quilters, this workshop builds precision with curved seams by constructing quarter-circle blocks. Participants use cardstock templates and try three machine piecing techniques for 8½ inch blocks, then compare the benefits and challenges of each method.

Visit the Garner History Museum to explore the town’s past, from the people who built the community to the stories that shaped its identity. Take a moment to look around and discover something new about Garner.

Now in its fourth year, the Volleynati charity tournament returns to Jaycee Park in Raleigh to celebrate volleyball, community, competition, and giving back. Twenty teams will compete in a 5v5 format, with jerseys provided for participants. A live DJ, giveaways, and extensive photo and video coverage on Instagram are also planned. Team registration is open.

Raleigh tribute band 5TA brings a high-energy salute to Chris Cornell, Soundgarden, Audioslave, and other favorites from the grunge and post-grunge era of the 1990s and 2000s at Abbey Road Tavern and Grill. The performance centers on dynamic vocals, melodic guitar work, and a hard-hitting rhythm section that keeps the music driving from start to finish.

Cosmic Charlie brings its annual Days Between celebration back to Lincoln Theatre in Raleigh, honoring Jerry Garcia with an evening devoted to the Grateful Dead’s music. Formed in Athens, Georgia in 1999, the band channels the Dead’s spirit while shaping the songs with its own creative voice and high energy. Rather than copy note for note, they lean into improvisation and interaction, often stepping onstage without a setlist so any tune can surface and audience requests can help steer the night. David Gans of the Grateful Dead Hour has praised the group for keeping the conversation alive in their own way. Expect spirited jams, a mix of tradition and fresh ideas, and those shared peaks when everything locks in.

Jamie Lissow performs a stand-up show built for big laughs and a lighthearted vibe. Expect an upbeat set that keeps the humor rolling from start to finish.

Catch Stephen Wilson Jr. live at Red Hat Amphitheater in Raleigh, with The Lone Bellow also on the lineup. The show kicks off in the evening, with ticket availability listed through Ticketmaster.

Catch Bronco live at the Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts in Raleigh. The show is scheduled for 8:00 PM.

A friendly hiking group gathers at Umstead Park, usually on Friday and Sunday mornings. Routes and meeting locations vary and are shared in a WhatsApp group, since plans can shift with the season, weather, and the availability of a hike leader. Most hikes cover about four miles in under two hours, and some participants choose a slower pace and turn around early. To join the group, send a WhatsApp message to John Zeiger at 919/522-4212 or Susan Nicholas. Coordinator: John Zeiger at johnz@outdoorz.net.

A classic comic book show and sale that brings together dealers and fans, running since 1987. It is the second longest running show in North Carolina. Admission is free. Browse selections from Heroes Aren't Hard to Find with Shelton Drum, Rick Fortenberry, David Shankle, Gene Carpenter, David Burns and Arex Crooke, Banks Robinson, Jerry Lahm, Jason Carpenter, Chris Rigo, Josh Almond, Karl Terrana, Charlie Sides, G3eks, Captial Comics, Drew Holland, Smasher Comics, Bryan Barros, Derrick Isgett, James Kressner, TJ Helms, James O'Briant, Andy Parker, Peter Terracciano, and Lyn Anderson.

Presented by The MAKRS Society, this monthly market and concert series brings new bands to Midtown Park in North Hills alongside more than 50 local vendors, food trucks, and beer and wine. Browse unique finds, take in live performances, and enjoy food and drinks. The event offers a chance for friends and family to spend time together while supporting local vendors.

The 3rd annual summer market returns to Atlantic Gardening with a Plants and Pollinators theme, celebrating the bugs, birds, and other critters that help pollinate plants and flowers. Browse offerings from more than 20 local makers and artists with a pollinator focus. Enjoy food and drinks at the Atlantic Garden Bar, and explore plants, flowers, and gardening supplies. Sample locally made honey, jams, baked goods, and sweet treats, along with charcuterie, shaved ice, and popsicles. Learn through educational workshops on pollinators and preservation with Look What Grows. Food trucks and kids activities will be announced. This event is free and open to all ages.

An open play session for Commander where participants can take part in free-form games with others.

Kristine Freeman, the resident Pokémon Professor, runs this casual league and serves as both trading card game judge and tournament organizer. It offers a community space to play and trade, with the Pokémon TCG as the primary focus and room for the video game and Pokémon Go as well, though those receive less support. League play is relaxed and centered on having fun, allowing a Legacy-style format with cards from any set. Proxies, World Championship cards, and foreign-language cards are permitted when both players understand their effects. Newcomers can learn the basics of the TCG with guidance from Kristine, who also provides resources for practicing at home. For young attendees or anyone less interested in matches, there are coloring and activity pages with stickers as rewards. On tournament days, sessions take place at East Coast Gaming.

Enjoy a playful themed skating session inspired by Stitch, bringing island vibes, lively music, and a friendly atmosphere for skaters of all ages. It is a fun pick for families or groups of friends, with plenty of laughs, movement, and colorful energy throughout the session. Admission is $13 online or $15 at the door. Regular skate rental is $6, rollerblade rental is $7, and Skatemate rental is $6. Non-skating spectators pay $4. A waiver is required for entry, and adults must include the names of any children they are bringing. Expect a spirited skate packed with character and nonstop fun for fans of Stitch.

Play a Marvel-style tabletop RPG as part of the Spider-Man family and try to escape The Collector in a Timestream Adventure. You will get everything needed to jump in, including a condensed ruleset, 12 pre-made character options from the Spider-Verse, and game materials like dice and tokens. Your ticket includes a 30-minute introduction and a one-shot adventure that runs about 3 to 4 hours, guided by professional narrators. Doors open early, and the event includes a brief how-to-play session before games begin.

Settle into an elevated Yin Yoga session guided by local instructor Blaze Gorden. This calm, slow-paced practice emphasizes mobility and unhurried transitions, making it welcoming for beginners and experienced yogis alike. Bring a mat. For an added lift, some participants pick up an infused drink or Haven Herb flower from the shop before class to enhance the experience.

Prabhu Deva leads a live dance concert at Raleigh Memorial Auditorium in Raleigh, joined by Lauren Gottlieb, Sonali Bhaduria, Harini Nilakantan, Saanve Megghana, Alexander Noel, and Natasha Sherpa. With more than 150 performers, celebrity appearances, and standout choreography, this large-scale production celebrates dance traditions from across India. Tickets are on sale, and savings are available by purchasing directly from the box office to avoid Ticketmaster fees. Use code PDNC10 for an early bird 10 percent discount, or PDGT15 for 15 percent off groups of 10 or more.

Enjoy an evening of live music with Jason Adamo as he presents North Carolina Songwriters in the Round, featuring eight NC artists. Doors open in the late afternoon, with the show starting shortly after.

At The Dirty V, a Love Island watch party takes over the screens with episodes rolling, steady pours at the bar, and a menu of specials built for that villa vibe. Expect burgers, fries, and cocktails alongside every recoupling and burst of drama, plus the kind of off-the-rails commentary that turns watching into a group chat. A full bar and food specials keep the chaos going.

A summer horseback riding camp in Raleigh, NC welcomes children ages 6 to 14. Sessions line up with the traditional summer break for Wake County Schools and are offered in both full day and half day formats, with a suggestion that campers who are 6 or 7 choose the half day option. Campers are placed in riding groups that match their skill level and they ride once each day. No previous experience is needed. Instruction emphasizes the essentials of horse care, including grooming, tacking, and after-ride care, along with introductory riding skills. Lessons include time in the ring as well as trail rides. When not riding, campers can swim in an on-site pool with a certified lifeguard on duty, build additional horsemanship knowledge, and enjoy crafts and games.

Explore the wonders of nature during a family-friendly story time at the North Carolina Museum of Art, followed by interactive, hands-on activities that build on the tale. Meet near the Welcome Center to begin. Activities may include a stroll to other parts of the art museum campus, and most routes accommodate strollers. This free program is designed for children ages 7 and under, and everyone is welcome. Dress for the weather and be ready to walk.

The ninth annual Drive Out Hunger golf outing brings participants to Prestonwood Country Club in Cary, North Carolina for a shotgun start in a captain’s choice format. Hosted by Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Raleigh, the event supports efforts that provide more than 5 million pounds of food to families through seven food pantries serving Central and Eastern North Carolina. Boxed lunches will be available on the course, and a reception will follow.

Using a charm pack and a yard of fabric, transform simple pieces into a roomy, colorful Mondo bag. It may look intricate, yet the method is straightforward once you learn it. After making one, you might be inspired to sew several more.

Renowned orchardist and author Bill Thoms presents an in-depth look at Bulbophyllums, drawing on more than 45 years of experience with this diverse group that includes over 2000 species. Alongside his wife, Doris Dukes, he has earned more than 50 cultural awards for Bulbophyllums, and the American Orchid Society has recognized his contributions by naming a new annual award in his honor. Expect a lively program that blends humor with practical guidance for growers at any level. His books will be available for purchase. Admission is free and everyone is welcome.

Free family screenings of The Wild Robot are presented at Triangle Cinemas at Six Forks in Raleigh, sponsored by Linda Craft Team, REALTORS. Admission is free and no tickets are needed. All ages are welcome and concessions are available. With four showings, there are multiple opportunities to catch the film. This screening is part of a summer series of complimentary family movies in Raleigh.

Seniors can enjoy a friendly lunch bingo gathering with Blue Cross NC at the Raleigh Beyond Blue Neighborhood Center. The event features complimentary lunch and chances to win prizes. Space is limited, so advance registration is recommended. For assistance, call 1-888-275-7513, extension 1.

This live trivia night at Parkside Restaurant has no entry fee. Teams face off for prizes awarded to the highest scorers, and participants can register to receive three complimentary hints before the game.

Matisyahu steps onstage with a sound that blends reggae, hip hop, alt rock, and adventurous pop, guided by a lifelong connection to Jewish faith and Old Testament themes. His recent EP, Hold The Fire, led by the single Fireproof, channels a vivid dream and reflects on faith, fame, and creative purpose. Raised outside New York City and drawn early to jam bands like Phish and the Grateful Dead, he later found in Bob Marley and reggae a spiritual throughline that helped shape his voice. Career highlights include the breakout hit King Without a Crown, the Gold-certified Live at Stubb’s, the Grammy-nominated and Billboard No. 1 Youth, and the Gold-certified One Day, which has amassed well over 100 million streams. Known for an energetic, improvisation-friendly stage presence, he continues to explore fresh connections across eras and styles while keeping the focus on music with spiritual depth.

This free Kids Storytime at the Haven Shoppe welcomes children of all ages. Stories feature a new theme each week. The shop sells coffee, tea, juice boxes, lemonades, and ice cream. After the reading, families can enjoy the playground or visit the goats.

Painter Cathy Martin leads a workshop that respects core principles, then shows how to bend and reimagine them. Through demonstrations, explore inventive ways to tackle the painting of your choice, energize your palette with vibrant chromatic color, and gain confidence in making expressive, beautiful brushstrokes. Participants may focus on a portrait, a landscape, or any subject in between, supported by an encouraging teaching approach that invites experimentation while keeping strong fundamentals in mind.

Take a docent-led look inside the Ivey-Ellington House, a Gothic Revival cottage set within the Downtown Cary Historic District. This brief tour shares how the home was designed, who lived there, and how preservation efforts brought it back to life, including a noteworthy historical find uncovered during restoration. Admission is free and no tickets or appointments are required. Recognized as a Local Historic Landmark, the house is a late nineteenth-century example of Gothic Revival cottage architecture and is uncommon in Wake County, where most surviving buildings in this style are religious. Situated near the former Raleigh and Chatham Railroad, it reflects how architectural ideas moved from cities to rural communities and aligns with national movements in housing reform and the widespread use of pattern books. After a careful two-year restoration by the Town of Cary, supported by years of advocacy from the Friends of the Page-Walker, the property’s future was secured so that this piece of North Carolina’s architectural heritage can be appreciated for generations.

Elevated Power Hour is a free weekly gathering hosted by Elevated Energy Healing that highlights a different guest speaker who shares their practice through complimentary talks and mini workshops. Created for seekers, healers, and anyone curious about spiritual growth, it offers a welcoming space to listen, learn, and connect. July’s lineup includes Mary-Carmen Wiser of Create Space Mindfully, LLC exploring ketamine and mindfulness, Lori Tyman with a focus on fascia, Bindi Kumar guiding a shamanic spirit-guide journey, Daphne Towell introducing the art of bone reading, and Marcie Dean with LovEvolve Music. Participants are welcome to arrive with questions, an open mind, and a readiness to receive.

Bring extra pop-its, spinners, cubes, and squishies to a swap where fidget fans exchange items and find new favorites. Designed for both casual collectors and dedicated enthusiasts, this gathering offers chances to trade duplicates and refresh a collection. Explore a variety of tactile toys to spin, pop, and squish, then trade for pieces that suit your style at Learning Express.

Spend some time at the Garner History Museum and delve into the town’s heritage, from the individuals who built the community to the narratives that continue to define it. A casual visit offers a chance to uncover new insights about the town of Garner and its past.

Zest celebrates its anniversary with party perks and tasty specials. Expect $1 oysters, half priced bottles of wine, and a $10 featured anniversary roll. Giveaways and freebies add to the festivities for a lively, celebratory atmosphere.

A designated evening for singles to connect in a relaxed setting without loud music or photos. No sign up is required, though you can add your name if you prefer... skipping it can keep a bit of mystery about who will be there. There is no attendance limit, and singles outside the group are welcome. The gathering takes place at Hearsay, the lounge inside The Matthews House in Cary. The atmosphere is upscale, so dressing up fits right in without feeling overdressed. Expect conversation-focused mingling with drinks and appetizers.

Casual Commander free play brings players together for open, friendly games.

Step into a celebration with a prehistoric twist, packed with hands-on fun for kids. Diggery Digger’s Dino Adventure brings an interactive performance that blends fossils, magic, music, and towering dinosaur characters. After the show, young explorers can get creative with dinosaur-themed crafts and activities that spark curiosity. Admission is free, and registration helps ensure there are enough supplies for everyone. Designed for children of all ages. School supplies will be collected during the event to support local schools in Wake County, and families can plan to enjoy lunch at nearby restaurants once the fun wraps up.

A monthly luncheon brings together women business owners for networking and guest speakers who share ideas to educate, resource, and inspire. Created by the Garner League of Women, the gathering is rooted in the belief that women thrive through community, support, and motivation. Participants get to learn about one another’s businesses and build stronger connections in a welcoming environment without seat exclusivity. RSVP is requested, and friends are welcome.

Unlimited pani puri takes the spotlight at Bharath Cafe, with bottomless servings priced at $11.99. Expect a balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors in a street-style setting. There is a playful challenge to see who can enjoy the most. This event runs on Thursdays.

Baking fans can explore cupcake decorating at a free TeachAbility Art Night led by baker Serenity Barstow, a floor supervisor at Esteamed Coffee. Participants receive a specialty drink and a snack of their choice, and all decorating materials are provided. The workshop welcomes adults with disabilities and is made possible by Cary Art Daze. Space is limited and advance registration is required.

Bingo Geeks brings a music-filled twist to bingo at Crooked Hammock Brewery, creating an interactive night of songs and friendly competition. The event features three themed rounds with prizes for each round’s winner. Expect a relaxed vibe with hammocks and drinks, plenty of sing-along moments, and an easygoing evening of great tunes and good company.

This meeting focuses on preparing for a leadership transition for the new year, and the usual 10-minute member presentation is on hold. The following gathering will introduce the incoming team and is planned at Logan’s Roadhouse in Garner.

Musicians and artists gather for an original open jam that spotlights collaboration and connection at Saints and Scholars Pub. This recurring monthly session welcomes anyone looking to trade ideas, meet future bandmates, line up a reliable substitute, or find new people to jam with. Sign in happens on site with no advance reservations, and participants are encouraged to stay and support fellow performers throughout the night. The stage is fully set with a sound system and lighting, a drum kit, a Roland keyboard, guitar and bass amplifiers, effects pedals, vocal monitors, and six microphones, plus a tablet loaded with the Ultimate Guitar Chord app that offers scrolling lyrics and internet access and a holder for phones or tablets. Performances are captured with two cameras and later shared to the event’s Facebook page and group with performer tags, and professional photography documents the evening. Bring your instrument, whether guitar, bass, or your pedalboard, and plug into a welcoming space that is well organized, drama free and judgment free, family friendly, and open to all ages and skill levels.