Events in Wake Forest

Summer Adult Craft Club

Adult Craft Club at Hip Hip Parade offers relaxed, beginner-friendly studio sessions where adults can unwind, explore new techniques, and complete a handmade project in each class. Every workshop features a different craft, such as transforming a folded book into a vase with floral accents, painting coir door mats, experimenting with textured canvases, creating pressed flower pieces, crafting wreaths from book pages, stamping designs on tea towels and a bag, and arranging sea glass into art. Participants finish with something they can take home. Classes are led by Michael and Jennifer Bailey, a husband-and-wife team from Franklinton, North Carolina. Both are educators, creatives, and small business owners. Jennifer runs Baker Bailey NC, and Michael is the creator behind The Plot Twist Paper Co. They bring an inviting, upbeat energy to each session. All supplies are included. Wearing clothing that can handle a bit of glue or paint is recommended. Space is limited and materials are prepared in advance. Registrations are nonrefundable. If plans change, contacting the organizer at least 48 hours before class may allow a transfer to another available date, depending on openings. Cancellations within 48 hours and no-shows are not eligible for a refund or transfer. If Hip Hip Parade needs to cancel or reschedule, participants will be offered a transfer, credit, or refund.

JUN24

Guided Meditation

Experience a calming guided meditation led by Marnie, who brings more than seven years of practice to each session. She weaves soothing sound frequencies with gentle direction to support self-healing. You can choose to sink into a deep inner journey or simply rest and unwind at your own pace. This session welcomes ages 15 and up. Participants under 18 must attend with an adult and maintain a quiet and respectful presence. No prior experience is required. For comfort, a thick yoga mat, a blanket, a pillow, and an eye pillow are provided, and bolsters are available on a first come, first served basis. You are welcome to bring extra cushions, pillows, or blankets to make the floor more comfortable. The practice is designed to settle the nervous system, promote relaxation, uplift mood and energy, support immune function, and encourage better sleep, sharper concentration, mental clarity, personal growth, and overall mental and emotional wellness. The price is $20. Please leave cell phones and smart watches in your vehicle or secure them in a locker for the duration of the class.

JUN24

Games & Entertainment

Wednesday Pool Tournament

Test your skills in a friendly 8-ball pool tournament at Keith's Store in Wake Forest. The format is double elimination and the entry fee is $10. Bring your cue, enjoy a drink, and see who comes out on top.

9th Anniversary Celebration

Arrow Tree Boutique celebrates nine years with an all-day event featuring hourly surprises until closing. The milestone is marked throughout the day, with new surprises revealed each hour.

JUN27

Sunflowers & Stars Festival is an afternoon event at a local spot in the Wake Forest area. Visitors can meet participating vendors, learn more about what they do, pick up raffle tickets and swag, and visit other vendors who will be on site for the day. Plenty of goodies will be available.

Afternoon Arts

The Joel Fund and Black Box Dance Theatre are partnering to present an afternoon of creative workshops designed for veterans and military families. Participants can explore dance, storytelling, and hands-on two dimensional art projects in a supportive setting that emphasizes creativity, a sense of community, and meaningful connection. Beginners are encouraged, and no prior dance or visual art experience is required. Walk-ins are accepted, and there is no cost to attend. For more information, contact opart@thejoelfund.org.

The Joel Fund

Teach Me to Crochet! 2

Build on beginner crochet skills in a class for those comfortable chaining and making single crochet stitches. Learn double crochet, half double crochet, and treble stitches, with the possibility of exploring the magic circle. Begin a washcloth to practice the techniques as you learn. Registration is available in the ticket section, and the cost is $50.

The Knotty Sheep

hOMe Yoga Studio & The Winebrary

Groups & Meetups

Sci-Fi Book Club June Meeting- ‘Red Rising’

This bi-monthly book club will discuss Red Rising by Pierce Brown. Page 158 Books offers a discount on the book when it is ordered on the store's website, with Pay at Store selected at checkout and the comment "Winebrary Book Clubs book" included; the discount will be applied at pickup. No outside beverages.

Full Moon Drum Circle

A free flowing drum circle under the full moon welcomes all styles and skill levels. The gathering takes place at Joyner Park. If the weather is nice, it will be in the field near the walking path in the farthest corner of the parking lot from the Joyner Park Community Center. For navigation, use coordinates 35.99653° N, 78.51669° W. In the case of light rain or other circumstances, it will move under the roof of the Joyner Park Community Center porch/entrance.

Joyner Park

Community Yoga Class

A welcoming community yoga session in Wake Forest invites neighbors to nurture mind, body, and spirit together. An experienced instructor will guide a sequence of poses that emphasizes mindful breathing, balance, flexibility, and overall connection. The class is open to both members and non-members and is suitable for every experience level, from beginners to seasoned practitioners.

Sound Healing

At MK Creative Arts Studio, this sound healing session offers a quiet, inward experience as gentle layers of tone surround you. Harmonic frequencies move through the body to soothe the nervous system and support emotional balance. For generations, people have used music, sound, and vibration for therapeutic purposes, and studies show it can help lower blood pressure, slow the pulse, and support the parasympathetic system. The immersive soundscape is crafted with a wide range of instruments, including 10 crystal singing bowls, 4 Tibetan singing bowls, 4 Elements Koshi chimes, 9 Solfeggio pipes, wind percussion chimes, a crystal pyramid, 3 gongs, and a rain disk. This experience is open to ages 12 and up. Participants under 18 must attend with an adult and remain quiet and respectful. No prior experience is required. The session lasts one hour and the price is $40. Each attendee receives a thick yoga mat, a blanket, and a small pillow. Meditation seats are available for those who prefer to sit, and there are eye pillows with a limited number of knee bolsters. You are welcome to bring additional cushions, pillows, or blankets for extra comfort on the floor. The practice is designed to align physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being, ease brain activity into a calmer rhythm to invite relaxation and healing, and guide attention into the present moment. To maintain a peaceful environment, please leave cell phones and smart watches in your vehicle during the sound bath.

MK Creative Arts Studio

QiGong Flow with LeAnna Marie

Settle into a gentle qigong flow with LeAnna Marie, created for anyone seeking more ease in the body and a quieter mind. This guided session blends unhurried movement, conscious breathing, and steady attention to support balance, vitality, and a sense of calm. Participants move slowly, listen inward, and make space for the body to release tension and reset. Expect grounding sequences, breath guidance, moments of stillness, and a welcoming space without judgment. Open to ages 15 and up, with those under 18 accompanied by an adult. No prior experience is required. Wear comfortable clothing and bring your curiosity, and you may bring water in a sealable, non-breakable bottle if desired. The focus is to slow down, soothe the mind, feel more at ease in your body, and deepen your connection with yourself. Price is $20. Please leave cell phones and smart watches in your vehicle or secure them in one of the complimentary lockers during class.

The Y'Ville Well

Art & Culture

Author Event: John Pavlovitz

Page 158 Books hosts author John Pavlovitz for a return visit celebrating his children's book Here and Now and Small and Close. The event is presented in partnership with an award-winning Canadian.

Page 158 Books

JUN29

Full Moon Sound Bath and Circle

This small-group moon gathering offers a gentle pause to reconnect with yourself without pressure or expectations. The session blends sound therapy with mindful movement, quiet reflection, and intentional practices to support a full-body reset. Arrive with light movement to settle into your body, take in a brief reflection on the current moon’s energy, then relax into the tones of crystal singing bowls and chimes. Guided meditation and intention setting follow, with unhurried time to journal at the end. Sharing is always optional, and every element is an invitation so you can participate in the way that feels right for you. The experience is inspired by the present moon phase to encourage reflection, a fresh reset, and purposeful next steps. Many participants leave with a calmer nervous system, more clarity and emotional space, and a renewed sense of connection to themselves and those around them. The cost is $45 and advance booking is required. As a bonus, enjoy 15% off crystals and other metaphysical items in the boutique on the day of your session.

Jubilation Spa

JUN30

The Tumble Gym of Wake Forest Gymnastics

Open Gym at the Tumble Gym (Wake Forest) (Tue, Wed, Fri)

An open gym session at The Tumble Gym of Wake Forest Gymnastics gives kids space to move, play, and meet others. It offers a simple way for children to use up energy while spending time with peers in a welcoming setting.

JUL2

Art & Culture

Author Event: Eliza Knight

Author Eliza Knight appears in conversation with Katherine Scott Crawford to celebrate Knight’s new novel, Lost in the Summer of '69. The story centers on Eleanor Bell, a widowed would-be singer who, after an early Alzheimer’s diagnosis just before her sixty-ninth birthday, sets off on a music-filled bucket-list tour of summer festivals without telling anyone. Her daughter, Leanne Miller, and granddaughter, Nora, take to the road in a Lincoln Continental to find her, tracing a cross-country path from Atlanta to California, Denver, Seattle, back to New York, and then New Orleans. Along the way they hear Eleanor’s voice on the radio, and Johnny Carson even nicknames her the Dame of Rock n’ Roll. Eliza Knight is an award-winning USA Today and international bestselling author of historical women’s fiction. Her love of history began in childhood at Versailles, and she has written numerous novels, including Confessions of Grammar Queen, The Mayfair Bookshop, Starring Adele Astaire, Ribbons of Scarlet, A Day of Fire, and Can’t We Be Friends. Katherine Scott Crawford is the award-winning author of The Miniaturist’s Assistant and Keowee Valley. A former backpacking guide, adjunct professor, and recovering academic, she wrote a weekly newspaper column that appeared across the United States and abroad, with work in outlets such as USA Today, the Detroit Free Press, and the Herald Scotland. Winner of the 2025 Sir Walter Raleigh Award in fiction from the state of North Carolina, she holds an MFA from the Vermont College of Fine Arts, prefers time in the woods with her dog, enjoys curious people, adventure, and snow, and believes historical fiction is the best way to time travel. An eleventh-generation Southerner, she leads writing retreats at a remote mountain lodge in Western North Carolina, where she lives with her family.

Page 158 Books

JUL3

Holidays

Wake Forest Fireworks Spectacular

The annual Fireworks Spectacular fills Husky Stadium at Heritage High School with a headline performance by The Swingin’ Medallions, roaming performers, food trucks, and a grand fireworks display. Now in its 53rd year, with Capital Chevrolet as the presenting sponsor, this free community tradition regularly attracts more than 15,000 people. During intermission, veterans in attendance will be welcomed to gather near the stage to lead the Pledge of Allegiance. A soloist chosen through an open call by the Parks, Recreation and Cultural Resources Advisory Board will perform the National Anthem. This showcase is part of Wake Forest’s Independence Day Celebration, which also includes a Children’s Parade and Art & More in the Park. Admission is free. For everyone’s safety and comfort, firearms, glass containers, alcohol, pets, and smoking are not permitted on school grounds. Tents, stakes, and shade structures are also prohibited.

Husky Stadium at Heritage High School

JUL3

Wake Preparatory Academy 7-12

Karaoke

On the first Friday of every month, Burnt Barrel hosts karaoke for a monthly night of music and singing.

Burnt Barrel

JUL5

Markets

Timeless Sparkle at Burnt Barrel

A pop up at Burnt Barrel offers permanent jewelry. Stop by to get a piece during the event.

JUL6

Sports

The Runner's Camp at Wake Prep Academy

The Runner's Camp at Wake Prep Academy is a track and field camp for children ages 6 to 12.

JUL7

Paint Your Date Paint Party

Riffium @ Buds Tavern - Battle Of The Bands

Riffium takes part in a Battle of the Bands at Bud’s Tavern. Support the band as they perform in the competition.

Bud's Tavern

⭐ Ebru Water‑Marbling Bauble Workshop: CHRISTMAS IN JULY

MK Creative Arts Studio hosts a Christmas in July edition of its hands-on Ebru water marbling workshop focused on creating ornament baubles. After a sold out debut last year, this experience returns with an opportunity to craft swirling, marbled designs that are transferred from a pigment bath onto your baubles, resulting in pieces that are truly one of a kind. Ebru is a traditional Turkish technique where colorful pigments float on a thickened surface, then are gently shaped into patterns such as ripples, stones, or florals before being lifted onto an object. Participants will receive materials and guidance to produce vivid, floating-ink ornaments that capture movement and color in every piece. While the baubles dry, guests can enjoy seasonal treats that bring the holiday spirit to midsummer, including cold apple cider, mini gingerbread cookies, peppermint bark bites, shortbread, cranberry spritzers, and a Christmas themed snack mix, with a cheerful holiday playlist adding to the atmosphere. A standard ticket is $49 and covers one participant, two marbled baubles, all necessary materials, step-by-step instruction, and access to a drying and packaging station. A premium ticket is $89 and includes one participant, a set of six marbled baubles, priority access to colors, additional time at the marbling tray, and upgraded packaging, which works well for gift sets or collectors. Extra baubles may be added for $10 each during checkout or at the event. Open to ages 12 and up who can participate independently. All sales are final and refunds are not offered. Full terms are provided at checkout. The organizer may reschedule in cases such as low enrollment, weather, illness, or other unforeseen circumstances. Optional ticket insurance is available during checkout for added flexibility.

MK Creative Arts Studio

Family Movie Nights

Settle in for an outdoor Family Movie Night at Joyner Park featuring Mufasa, The Lion King. Pre-show activities kick off before the film, and guests are encouraged to arrive early since space on the lawn can fill up quickly. Admission is free and everyone is welcome. Bring blankets or chairs for comfort, and consider packing snacks, bug spray, a flashlight, and an umbrella just in case. Alcohol, smoking, and unleashed pets are not permitted. Food vendors may be available with snacks and drinks, or you can bring your own food, but alcohol is strictly prohibited. Screenings may be canceled if the weather does not cooperate. Updates will be shared on the Town website, Nextdoor, and Facebook, and users of the Town app will receive push notifications about any schedule changes.

E. Carroll Joyner Park

Outdoor Recreation

Summer Solstice Berry Forage with Daniel Woody

Head into the wild with Daniel Woody for a blueberry and blackberry forage. Search for ripe berries in their natural habitat, learn about local ecosystems, and enjoy the surrounding scenery along a roughly 2.5 mile round trip route off established paths. The physical effort is moderate at about 4 out of 10. Wear comfortable outdoor clothing and sturdy shoes. Bring sunscreen and a hat for sun protection, and carry containers for the berries you pick. For easy visibility within the group, wear bright orange or green. There is no bathroom on site, so plan accordingly. This outing offers a chance to connect with fellow adventurers and share in the joy of a wild harvest.

Raleigh N.C.

JUST ADD WATER: The Lake Reset

Set aside the to-do list and experience a curated daytime reset on the water designed for women at Falls Lake, NC. There is nothing to plan or host, only a relaxed, pressure-free atmosphere with positive energy and beautiful views. A $75 deposit is required to reserve a spot, and capacity is intentionally limited.

Falls Lake, NC

JUL19

Art & Culture

Downtown Emerging Artist Walk

Celebrate local creativity with an emerging artist walk in downtown Wake Forest. Visit True You Studio to meet Izzy Johnson and stop by Broadsides and Brews to connect with Jeanne Santucci. Both artists will be present to share their stories, talk about their work, and engage with the community. Stroll between the two venues, experience their art up close, and you may even find a piece to take home. This neighborhood-focused experience brings artists and visitors together to highlight the vibrant arts scene at the heart of downtown.

True You Studio

JUL20

Jaks Summer Horse Camp

Jaks Stables offers a summer horse camp that combines riding instruction with experiences that build confidence and independence. Participants spend meaningful time with horses and connect with fellow campers, gaining skills while discovering the bond that working with horses can create. The camp welcomes ages 6 to 16 and is designed for beginner to intermediate riders. Two sessions are available. Rates are $325 for one session or $275 for current clients, and $500 for another session or $425 for current clients.

JAKS Stables

JUL22

Games & Entertainment

Red, White, & Mahj Open Play

Celebrate mahjong with an open play evening at Artisan Beer & Cheese in Rolesville, NC. Expect a patriotic theme, a relaxed and social setting, and charcuterie included, with additional food and drinks available for purchase from the venue. Open play is guided with support available as needed, though it is not a formal class. Tables are thoughtfully styled, the community is welcoming, and Troop Mahjong Merit Books and Badges are part of the experience. This gathering is designed for experienced Standard players as well as beginners who already know the basics or have completed a Mahjong 101 class. Attendees can come with friends or solo and will find plenty of chances to build real-game experience with fellow mahjong enthusiasts. Tickets are $35 per person. Space is limited to keep play comfortable and social, and advance registration is required.

Artisan Beer and Cheese

JUL24

Christmas in July - Santa at Scoops!

Enjoy a summery dose of holiday cheer. A snow machine will help bring winter vibes, and Santa will stop in during his vacation. Kiddie scoops are just $1.

Scoops on Main

🎄 CHRIST‑MOOSE IN JULY Paint‑and‑Take Ceramic Moose + His Wintry Penguin Pal

Celebrate mid-summer with a Christmas-in-July paint and take workshop at MK Creative Arts Studio that blends winter flair with sunny-day creativity. Each participant decorates a smooth, detailed ceramic moose and a tiny penguin companion using premium paints and brushes, with options for glitter, shimmer, and other finishing touches. Completed pieces go home the same day in a boutique-style box that keeps them safe and presented beautifully. Choose classic holiday colors, bright summer tones, or any whimsical mix that suits your style, with a focus on creativity and shared fun. This activity is recommended for ages 6 to 106, and children must be able to participate independently with minimal assistance. It suits families, parents with kids, grandparents, moose and penguin fans, friends, neighbors, and co-workers, as well as anyone who enjoys a good pun. Capacity is limited. Tickets must be purchased in advance to reserve a spot, all sales are final, full terms are provided at checkout, and optional ticket insurance is available. BYOB and bring-your-own snacks are encouraged.

MK Creative Arts Studio

Fundraisers

Give a Shuck: Hope & Half Shells

Give a Shuck: Hope and Half Shells is a chef-guided oyster roast and community gathering that raises funds for Shining Light in Darkness, which supports survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence. The experience blends food, art, conversation, and purpose. Guests can savor fresh steamed oysters or shrimp prepared by Ryan Bethea of Oysters Carolina, then gather for Shuck & Tell, a table talk where Ryan shares stories from his journey as a celebrated oyster farmer and culture keeper. Tapas-style plates are featured at The Shucker’s Table, curated by Chef Stephen C. Baity of South Carolina, a Food Network winner, Culinary Olympic medalist, and founder of Pop’s Secret Seasoning. Multiple ticket levels are available, each shaping a different way to take part, with some options adding touches like a reserved table, Chef Baity’s seasoning line, a custom apron, or a signature candle. Elevated Experience tickets provide added gifts, reserved seating, and closer interaction with the chefs and storytellers. Every attendee receives a branded oyster shucker and gloves. All proceeds support programs that help survivors in crisis. During checkout, ticket holders select a time slot, and seating is limited for each time slot. Children are welcome, and the event will take place rain or shine.

8-Track Minds at Bud's Tavern!

8-Track Minds appears at Bud's Tavern for an evening of dancing.

Festivals

YOUNGSVILLE SUMMER FEST!

Sweet Treatz Art Camp is a candy-themed creative week for young artists. Campers will paint, sculpt, and design artwork inspired by colorful cupcakes, sprinkled donuts, ice cream, and candy. It offers all the playful spirit of sweet treats without the sticky mess. The program runs Monday through Friday and ends with a Friday art show where participants can proudly share their creations with friends and family. This camp is for ages 6 to 12. Early bird tuition is $275 per week, with rates increasing afterward. Registration is for the full week only, and any single-day availability, if offered, will be shared closer to the session. Children should wear paint-friendly clothes and bring a nut-free lunch, a snack, and a water bottle each day.

AUG8

Financial Education Series - Outsmart the Scammers

This event takes place inside the community center. All activities will occur indoors.

E. Carroll Joyner Park

AUG9

Haley Ellis @ Burnt Barrel

Banjo melodies set an easygoing backdrop for a beer and a casual bite. Choose a spot on the patio or take a seat at the bar and relax into the music.

Burnt Barrel

AUG10

Jaks Summer Horse Camp

Young riders can spend a week immersed in horsemanship at JAKS Stables. This summer camp nurtures confidence and independence while highlighting the bond between people and horses. Campers go beyond basic riding lessons, make new friends, and practice skills in a welcoming setting. Open to ages 6 to 16, it is suited for beginners through intermediate riders. Tuition is $500, with optional early drop off or late pick up available for $550, or both for $575.

AUG10