Events in Rocky Mount, NC

North Carolina artist Tom Braswell presents a solo exhibition titled "AT WHAT POINT DOES A CIRCLE BREAK TO FORM A SPIRAL," inviting reflection on the instant when repetition shifts into growth, when continuity opens into expansion, and when new ways of understanding come into view. The exhibition gathers work created over many years, including photographs, sculpture and assemblage, conceptual pieces, prints, and installations. Drawing on interests in quantum physics, the fourth dimension, Zen thought, pataphysics, art theory, and the intertwined relationship between nature and human-altered landscapes, Braswell creates pieces that question familiar habits of seeing and point to the unseen frameworks that shape experience. Spanning multiple mediums and disciplines, the presentation offers a broad look at an artistic practice where the spiral serves as a fitting image for continual return and forward movement. Visitors are invited to consider their own place within larger cycles of change and continuity. Admission is free and open to the public. Support is provided by David and Susan Boyette, Melanie Mauzé, Rebecca Tighe, and Marcia and Buster Williamson.

Wilson Arts is accepting applications for North Carolina Arts Council Grassroots Arts Program subgrants, and this workshop is designed to help potential applicants understand the process and strengthen proposals. It takes place at the Wilson Arts Center, with a virtual option available, and RSVPs may be sent to acw@wilsonarts.com. New applicants are strongly encouraged to attend. The Grassroots Arts Program expands access to quality arts experiences across North Carolina through partnerships with local arts councils. As the local partner, Wilson Arts will award $28,493 in subgrants to organizations delivering arts programming in Wilson County. Eligible applicants are nonprofit organizations whose purpose is to promote and develop arts programming within the county. Funding priority focuses on established arts organizations such as theaters, galleries, choral societies, and festivals, on arts-in-education programs led by qualified artists, and on community-based organizations offering arts programming. Subgrants are not available to organizations that already receive operating support directly from the North Carolina Arts Council. Grant awards typically range from $500 to $6,000. Application forms and guidelines are available on the Wilson Arts website. Applications will be reviewed by a diverse panel of community members, with funding announcements to follow.

A Jimmy Buffett themed music bingo event at The Porch at Iconostar, where participants can listen to the songs and play for prizes.

This casual Disney Lorcana gathering features friendly play and trading, with league rewards available in a relaxed, welcoming setting. It is open to all experience levels, from first-time players to seasoned fans.

Explore floral design in a cozy Bloom + Sip class led by John Kirk of The Kirk’s Flowers. Create a charming arrangement with in-season blooms, soft textures, and warm colors, and feel free to bring a social drink from a nearby downtown merchant to enjoy while you work. The workshop welcomes ages 16 and up, with minors attending alongside an adult. No prior experience is needed, all materials are provided, and everyone leaves with a finished piece to enjoy. Pricing is $40 for members and $45 for non-members. Registration is available online, by calling 252-291-4329, or at the Wilson Arts Center reception desk.

Settle in for a sweet tasting workshop at Wilson Arts Center, created for anyone who enjoys exploring new ice cream flavors. Sample a flight that spans timeless classics to inventive seasonal creations while Kyler shares insights on ingredients, pairing ideas, and the techniques behind each recipe. Get a peek into the craft of homemade ice cream and take home a simple no-churn recipe to try in your own kitchen. Open to ages 8 and up, with minors accompanied by an adult. Admission is $25 for members and $30 for non-members.

Wilson Botanical Gardens is hosting an event focused on counting pollinators, with guided counts led by Master Gardeners throughout the gardens. Participants can learn how to record observations while connecting with community partners who will provide educational resources, interactive activities, and refreshments related to pollinators. Participating organizations include the Wilson County Beekeepers Association, Seeds of Hope Wilson, and Imagination Station Science Museum. Suitable for all ages.

Covered in Jam brings a lively night of live music to The Porch as Iconostar in Wilson, NC. The show blends jam-band staples, funk-forward grooves, familiar covers, and expansive improvisation, creating a high-energy atmosphere for fans of extended jams.

Discover gel plate monoprinting with instructor Julie Ann Haas in a creative, hands-on workshop at Wilson Arts Center. Experiment with mark making and color as you pull one-of-a-kind prints that you can frame or turn into cards, gift wrap, or collage pieces. Beginners are welcome, and the focus is on playful exploration and enjoying the process. All supplies are included. Open to ages 14 and up, with minors attending alongside an adult. The fee is $30 for members and $35 for nonmembers. Registration is available online, by phone, or in person at the Wilson Arts Center reception desk.

This relaxed Pokémon League at The Gilded Dragon offers a welcoming setting for players of every age and experience level to learn the game, fine tune decks, play casually, and trade cards. Prize packs may be awarded in a variety of ways that highlight learning, good sportsmanship, and active participation. Trading and deck building help are encouraged. To keep exchanges fair, any trade that involves a child must be reviewed by store staff before it is finalized, so check with a staff member before completing those trades. The focus is on fostering a safe, positive community where everyone can enjoy the game.

Explore how crystals are believed to work and why different stones are connected to specific intentions in an educational, interactive class focused on the foundations of crystal energy and magical practice. Guided discussion and activities cover the history of crystal use, energetic correspondences, intention setting, methods for cleansing and charging, creating crystal grids, and practical ways to weave crystals into a spiritual routine. This session welcomes both newcomers and seasoned practitioners, offering clear, useful knowledge and fresh perspectives. Participants can expect to leave with greater confidence and a more intentional relationship with their crystal collections. Tickets are $35 per person.

Enjoy an evening of bluegrass gospel at Owens Chapel, located near Elm City, featuring well known favorites alongside original songs from the band. Bring friends to share the music together.

Explore the flavors of the season in an interactive baking class focused on creating a beautiful summer fruit tart at Wilson Arts Center. Learn how to prep fruit, arrange attractive designs, and assemble a dessert that looks like it came from a bakery yet is simple to make at home. Practice with ingredients such as strawberries, kiwis, blueberries, mandarin oranges, and other seasonal favorites. Each participant crafts a personal tart to take home, and light appetizers are provided during the class. This program is open to ages 14 and up, with minors accompanied by an adult. Pricing is $50 for members and $55 for non-members.

The Fast 5 Late Model Challenge features $3,000 along with racing in Rookie 4, Sport Compact, Pure Stock Four Cylinder, Thunder V-8, and Super Stock Four Cylinder. Pit entry and driver registration are $35 for ages 11 and up and $10 for ages 10 and under. Grandstand admission is $20 for ages 16 and older, $5 for ages 11 to 15, and free for children 10 and under. The program includes a drivers meeting, then practice, qualifying, and heat races, a Kids JuiceBox intermission, and the feature events.

Downtown Wilson sets the scene for a lively evening as Take 10 Band returns with a show suitable for families near Whirligig Park and a Wilson Warbirds home game. The setlist spans rock, country, and pop from a local standout. The group has been named the Wilson Times top band for three straight years and appeared in the January 2026 issue of Wilson Living Magazine.

Casita Brewing Company hosts live banjo music from Haley Ellis, creating a laid back atmosphere in the taproom or beergarden. Enjoy a relaxed set and an easygoing brewery vibe.

This open test and tune session welcomes all cars from every division. Admission is $20 per person.

Boykin Series 29 presents The Deloreans, a powerhouse 1980s tribute that revives the decade’s neon glow, sky-high hair, and era-defining hits with polished showmanship. Led by six multi-talented vocalists, this seasoned show band delivers a high-energy, nostalgia-filled performance that celebrates the standout artists of the time. Their reputation stretches across the East Coast and around the world, with appearances for large audiences that include celebrities, U.S. presidents, Fortune 500 companies, and other distinguished guests. They are also a trusted pick for the United States Armed forces and NATO, and even the Navy Seals have called on them for entertainment. Expect bright neon costumes, infectious energy, and a finale that often has the crowd asking for another song. Tickets are $45 for adults and $40 for seniors and students.

RC3 hosts the 9th annual Live Life In Color Run, a bright celebration of health, happiness, and individuality. The course begins at Greater Wilson Rotary Park and continues through the Cavalier Terrace neighborhood. Participants can run, walk, crawl, or bike a 5K or a 1 mile fun run in support of recovery support efforts in Wilson County. Families, groups, and individuals of all abilities are welcome, and pets and strollers may participate. Those who register early are guaranteed a swag bag and T-shirt, with remaining items available first come, first served. Early bird pricing is offered for a limited time.

The 14th Annual Nationals teams up with the 6th Annual Archie Bryant Memorial, highlighting Thunder V-8 and Mid-East 602 Late Model competition with a packed program of racing. Super Stock Four Cylinder runs 30 laps with $2,000 to the winner, Thunder V-8 goes 25 laps with $3,333 to the winner, Pure Stock Four Cylinder runs 25 laps for $1,000 to win, Sport Compact covers 20 laps for $800 to win, Mid-East 602 Late Model runs 25 laps for $1,500 to win, and Rookie 4 races 10 laps for $200 to win. The card also features the Ladies V8 and 4 Cylinder Powder Puff Derby as well as Kids JuiceBox Karts. Pit gates open before grandstands, followed by a drivers meeting and the close of driver registration, then practice, qualifying, and heat races lead into the feature events. Admission for the pits is $40 for ages 11 and up and $10 for ages 10 and under. Grandstand admission is $20 for ages 16 and up, $5 for ages 11 to 15, and free for ages 10 and under.

Take 10 Band performs a community-focused concert at The Porch at Iconostar, with proceeds supporting SPOT youth programs (Share Positive Outcomes Together) and Children’s Hunger Elimination of Wilson. This ticketed event pairs live music with a mission to uplift local youth and help combat childhood hunger.

Seeds of Hope Wilson commemorates twelve years of partnership and community impact in East Wilson with an evening at the Wilson Arts Center filled with art, music, and purpose. Guests can enjoy dishes prepared by Cora Farmer House Catering while exploring the gallery, followed by live music from the Moonlight Swing Band. The celebration supports the Brighten the Garden Project, an effort to install lighting in the Pirate Forest Garden playground and provide power to the Outdoor Classroom, improving safety and expanding educational opportunities for children and families who depend on these spaces. It is also the final chance to purchase raffle tickets for a handcrafted American Stars & Stripes quilt, and the winner will be announced. Appreciation goes to sponsors Friends and Family, The Neighbor’s, and The Corner Restaurant for helping make this community celebration possible. For more information or to buy tickets in person, contact Luisa Simpson at 919-588-2971.

Enjoy music and try your luck at winning prizes.

A Recovery Month gathering that pairs a meeting of the full coalition with a recovery resource fair. The event takes place at the Wilson County Agricultural Center.

Wilson Downtown Development and Vollis Simpson Whirligig Park host a free concert at Vollis Simpson Whirligig Park featuring the Caroline Keller Band, with ASL interpreters available. This community gathering is a fundraiser for the two nonprofit hosts and is supported by the Presenting Sponsor, Wilson County Tourism Development Authority, the Series Experience Sponsor, Wilson Energy, and additional concert, community, and Friend of Downtown sponsors. Expect a family-friendly atmosphere with a mix of beach, soul, funk, pop, rock, country, and top 40. A variety of food trucks will be on site, and the food vendor lineup for this date is still to be announced. Cold beer and wine for adults will be served by Parkside Pour Sponsors Ruckus & Redemption and The Neighbor's, and kids can enjoy activities provided by the Imagination Station Science & History Museum. Bring a chair or blanket, and remember that a valid ID is required to purchase beer or wine. Sponsored by Casita Brewing Co. and Aqwa, the Caroline Keller Band centers its performances on storytelling, pairing classic melodies with lyrics that aim for honesty and connection. Caroline Keller began her career as a country gospel artist in her teens, recorded three albums, and achieved four top ten placements on the country gospel charts. She later teamed up with fellow songwriters and touring musicians John Christenbury and Clint Presley to form the band, whose sound blends traditional country with an Americana touch. Notable milestones include recurring writers nights at the Bluebird Cafe starting in 2016, the Don Gibson Singer Songwriter Symposium award in 2017 for The Way It Goes, Queen City Country Female Artist of the Year in 2019, and the 2018 Carolina Music Award for Best Americana Band.

The Colors of Courage 5K encourages people to move for mental health and support one another. Participants may take part on the course or cheer from the sidelines, and every role helps increase visibility, nurture hope, and offer support for mental health and suicide prevention. The focus is on community wellness and the message that mental health matters, with Zuud26 Creative Collective connected to the event.

Right Road Trio, Second Edition, and Holly Stallings Lewis are set to appear. The program brings these performers together on the same bill.

Wilson Community College partners with the Eastern Carolina Corvette Club to present a campus car and truck show. Held at Wilson Community College, this event offers a display of cars and trucks for attendees to enjoy.

An open test and tune session welcomes all cars from any division. Pit access is available, and admission is $20 per person.

An action-packed race program brings together the Fast 5 Late Model Challenge with $5,000 to the winner and the Modified Mafia Tour with another $5,000 up for grabs, plus Sport Compact Ucar, Rookie 4, and Kids Juice Box Karts. The day begins with pit access, followed by grandstand opening. After the driver meeting and the close of registration, teams roll onto the track for a slow parade, then move into practice, qualifying, and heat races. An intermission spotlights Kids Juice Box fun before the evening wraps with the feature events. Pit area admission is $45 for ages 11 and up and $10 for ages 10 and under. Grandstand tickets are $25 for ages 16 and older, $5 for ages 11 to 15, and free for children 10 and under.

Enjoy a music-filled experience with chances to win prizes.

Nighttime is full of surprises, and this Preschool Science Says session focuses on bats and other creatures that wake up after dark. The program is free and interactive for children ages 3 to 5, blending open ended science activities with children’s books to spark curiosity and support early literacy. Young learners will discover how nocturnal animals live and move through playful exploration and simple investigations. Registration is requested.

Enjoy an evening in Wilson with live music, drinks, and a relaxed vibe beneath the stars. Settle in for a casual night out with good sounds and an open-sky setting.

This veterans benefit features a Jeep run and chili cook-off organized by the Coastal Plains Jeep Club. Participants can try their hand at Texas Hold’em, enter a Show and Shine, browse raffle prizes, and pick up event T-shirts. Cooks are invited to compete for best chili in the cook-off, with registration required for contestants. Sponsorship inquiries are welcome by email.

Take part in a sip and sculpt clay experience at Larema Coffee House - Wilson for adults 18 and up. The session is led by professional artist and instructor Preference Evans. All materials are provided, and each ticket includes one signature drink with a choice of non-alcoholic or alcoholic.