Events in Wake Forest

Carolina Birth and Wellness

Evidence Based Birth® Six Week Childbirth Class

This six week childbirth class uses a flipped classroom format. Participants watch self paced videos at home, then meet in a small group each week with two experienced perinatal professionals for guided discussion and hands on practice. The curriculum centers on current, evidence based information to support informed and empowered decision making. Enrollment includes three months of access to Evidence Based Birth class videos, bonus newborn care videos, and a workbook filled with helpful information and extras for pregnancy, birth, and the postpartum period. A comprehensive library of PDFs and videos is also provided on key topics such as eating and drinking during labor, vitamin K, due dates, and more. Registration covers the birthing person and one support person.

12 year anniversary run!

Celebrate the run club's 12th anniversary with a pleasant run, then enjoy snacks afterward.

House Of Hops

Paint Your Pet

Celebrate the bond with a beloved animal companion by creating a custom pet portrait at JB Duke Hotel. This guided paint class welcomes every kind of pet, from fluffy friends to those with scales, shells, or feathers, and the finished artwork makes a thoughtful gift or keepsake. Each ticket contributes $20 to the Animal Protection Society of Durham. Participants receive one-on-one instruction from artist Victoria Lowry, an 11 x 14 inch canvas pre-sketched from a supplied photo, and all necessary painting materials. To enable the sketch, send a reference image in advance to victorialowryart@gmail.com. Food and beverages will be available for purchase from the JB Duke Lobby Lounge and are not included in the ticket price.

JB Duke Hotel

Wednesday Pool Tournament

Test your 8-ball skills in a friendly, double-elimination pool tournament at Keith's Store in Wake Forest. Entry is $10. Bring your cue, enjoy a drink, and compete through the bracket for bragging rights.

Duane Betts and Palmetto Motel

Duane Betts & Palmetto Motel headline an evening of live music, joined by Caitlin Krisko & The Broadcast performing as an acoustic duo. Ticket options include general admission and balcony seating, with prices of $25 or $30 for general admission and $45 or $50 for balcony. Tickets will be available for purchase.

Commander Free Play

A weekly Wednesday evening gathering centered on Commander, offering casual, open play in a relaxed midweek setting.

Galactic Games

NC Alumni Pub Trivia Night

Connect with fellow UChicago alumni and friends at NC Alumni Community Pub Trivia Night at Hi-Wire Brewing. The bar features a lineup of 20 beers on tap along with well drinks, draft cocktails, and s’mores. Food is available for purchase from partner spots next door, Cugino Forno and 19Fifty-One. Participation in trivia is free.

Hi-Wire Brewing Durham

Systema Martial Arts: Free Trial Class for Beginners

A complimentary introduction to Systema invites newcomers to explore a complete training approach that blends martial arts, yoga, massage, and meditation into practical skills for daily life. The focus is on natural self protection, strong structure, and relaxed movement supported by steady breathing, helping participants grow stronger and more flexible while easing fear and stress. Instruction follows a gradual, thoughtful progression that builds awareness, adaptability, and composure in challenging moments. Training emphasizes quality of movement over speed, and everyone works at a comfortable pace. Sessions typically open with breathing, mobility, and conditioning drills inspired by Russian martial arts to release tension and build resilience, then move into rolling, falling, groundwork, and theme-based movement exercises. Every class is designed to be varied and engaging, with no two sessions alike. NC Systema is recognized as an official Systema Vasiliev school, and its instructors renew their certification each year through the headquarters in Toronto.

LAUNCH Networking

LAUNCH is a new networking group created by foxtrotprint and Workspace for small business owners and entrepreneurs. Its mission is to provide an intentional setting to refine business pitches, share strategic referrals, and build meaningful connections that drive growth, collaboration, and opportunity. Participants are encouraged to come prepared with their mission, a concise summary of their business model, top referral needs, and a clear ask, because the more you bring, the more you will get out of each session. The community, called The Launch Room, welcomes business owners who are serious about growth. Expect a supportive, high energy environment without MLMs, pushy sales tactics, or unnecessary drama, and know that multiple professionals from the same industry are welcome when each serves a distinct niche. Membership is $25 per month, and meetings take place weekly. Each gathering follows a focused agenda that includes a welcome and context, two spotlight member presentations with short Q&A, a Launch Lab education moment, open networking with commitments, and a brief closing with next steps.

IBN Biz Lunch - South Durham, NC

Incredible Business Networking hosts a Biz Lunch in South Durham at Bralie's Sports Bar & Grill #1. The meetup begins with open networking and an opportunity to order lunch, moves into a focused program, then wraps up with additional time to connect. Attendance is free, with no dues, membership, attendance commitments, or industry category limits, and everyone is welcome. Food and beverages can be purchased if desired. Participants are encouraged to share their business, products, and services, meet new referral contacts, and bring plenty of business cards or flyers. Bringing a door prize is optional. The meeting is led by David Riddell of Big Frog Custom T-Shirts Durham at 205.356.4947 and Emily Jolley of Triangle Health Advisors at 919.685.0860. Sponsors support these gatherings, and sponsorship opportunities are available for businesses looking to reach professionals and entrepreneurs.

Bralies

Dino Dig Live!

Experience a live video call from a dinosaur quarry as NCMNS paleontologists check in from their Nebraska fossil dig, part of a summer field effort that spans the American West from Nebraska to Utah. See how the team searches for clues to ancient life while uncovering new specimens and continuing work on earlier discoveries. Participants can attend in person in the SECU Daily Planet Theater or watch on YouTube Live. Questions are welcome, with real-time interaction with scientists working directly in the field.

WRAL 3D Theater

Raleigh/Durham Speed Dating for Singles Age 25-39 ♥ Raleigh North Carolina

Speed date in Raleigh/Durham for singles ages 25 to 39. You will meet up to 12 potential matches during an in-person event with structured, timed conversations, then indicate who you’d like to see more of so the organizers can follow up. It is a casual, friendly way to meet local singles without the long, endless scrolling.

Compass Rose Brewery

Duane Betts and more

Catch Duane Betts live at Lincoln Theatre in Raleigh. The show is scheduled for 8:00 PM.

Painting Studio with Clina Polloni

Explore painting in a relaxed, small‑group studio at The Makery with artist and instructor Clina Polloni. Choose acrylic or oil and work on the subject that interests you most, whether a still life, landscape, or the featured project for the week. Learners ages 14 and up, from beginner to advanced, receive individualized guidance on color mixing, brushwork, composition, and more. Attend as your schedule allows, continue an in‑progress piece across sessions, or start something new whenever you are ready. Please bring your own supplies, including a canvas or panel, paints, brushes, a palette, paper towels or rags, and a sealable container for solvents if using oils. A detailed supply list is emailed with your ticket confirmation. The class is $30 per session on a pay‑as‑you‑go basis.

Beer and Banjos Durham @ Old Mill Farm (Featuring Slippery Hill)

Old Mill Farm in Durham hosts a live bluegrass performance presented by Beer and Banjos Durham, featuring Slippery Hill.

Old Mill Farm

Thursday Cornhole Tournament

A weekly cornhole tournament brings together casual competition, laughs, and a welcoming community vibe. Drink specials include $3 domestic beers and $4 Twisted Teas.

Silent Book Club!

Settle in at Dssolvr Durham for a low-key gathering of readers. Bring the book you are currently reading, mingle with fellow book lovers, then enjoy about an hour of quiet reading together before chatting with your table about what you read. The flow is simple and relaxed... a bit of conversation to start, silent reading in the middle, and a friendly discussion to close.

Dssolvr Durham

Tricycle Trivia

A lively trivia night at Crank Arm Durham blends questions, prizes, and plenty of fun, with beer and snacks available. This ongoing weekly game features fresh questions every time and a playful third wheel twist. Teams compete for gift cards for the top spots, and coming up with a memorable team name is part of the experience. Weekly hints are shared to give participants a small edge, and award winning Crank Arm beer adds to the good time.

Crank Arm Durham

TAPA Summer Ice Cream Social

Longer days and warmer weather set the scene for a casual ice cream meet-up at The Parlour in Durham. Savor favorite Triangle flavors while catching up with friends, and enjoy time in the nearby plaza when conditions are good. Open to everyone, this laid-back gathering centers on sweet treats and easy conversation.

The Parlour

Durham Friends Meeting (Quakers)

Summer Zouk Series for Beginners

Social dancing continues through the summer with beginner friendly Zouk instruction led by Hailey and KP, followed by time to dance and practice together. A four week bundle is available for 65 dollars and includes both the class and the social. Drop in options are 20 dollars for class plus social, 15 dollars for class only, and 8 dollars for the social only. Sign up using the Venmo information shown on the event image. The space is a bit farther than where GPS may first direct you; look for the Ronald McDonald parking sign, then head to the building on the right and go to the second floor. Parking is allowed on the right side of the lot downhill from the meetinghouse, while the left side is reserved for Ronald McDonald House staff and guests. The small lot to the right in front of the little meetinghouse is also available. The Duke Security lot directly across the street is open unless a specific space is marked otherwise. Please avoid the lot downhill from the Duke Security lot next to the Episcopal Student Center, and avoid the lot by the Campus Security Office near the Episcopal Center. Some street parking is also available.

Outdoor Recreation

WFP Urban Walk

Join Wake Forest Pride for a casual 1.5-mile stroll around downtown Wake Forest. It’s a friendly Pride walk where everyone is welcome, including all ages and fur families. You’ll start and finish at Freddy’s Bottle Shop, and it’s set up as a fun stroll to connect with the community during the evening.

The Hideaway Wake Forest

Appalachian Festival

The Appalachian Festival is a two-day community event in Raleigh celebrating Appalachian culture and entertainment. It’s expected to draw a large crowd, with plenty of programming over the course of the weekend.

Cloos' Coney Island

Tim McGraw & 49 Winchester

Tim McGraw performs live with 49 Winchester at Coastal Credit Union Music Park at Walnut Creek. This country concert is part of Tim McGraw’s Pawn Shop Guitar Tour, with 49 Winchester listed as the supporting act. Expect a high-energy night of sing-along hits from both artists.

BoutiqueBASH High-end Consignment Sale

Experience a three-day consignment sale spanning all seasons and sizes, showcasing boutique, sustainable, and high-end designer brands. Browse quality clothing, shoes, and accessories for women, men, and children, plus purses, toys, infant gear, indoor and outdoor play equipment, and nursery furniture contributed by hundreds of families. A limited selection of upscale housewares is also available. Tickets are required for crowd management and to secure early access to deals, with both free and paid presale options. Sponsored by Kids EveryWEAR, this event extends well beyond kids’ items and has been repeatedly recognized as the Triangle’s top consignment sale.

South Hills Mall & Plaza

Systema Martial Arts: Free Trial Class for Beginners

Explore Systema during a free trial and get an introduction to training that develops the body, mind, and spirit. This approach combines martial arts with elements of yoga, massage, and meditation to build practical self protection while increasing strength, mobility, and ease under stress. Instruction emphasizes moving freely with solid structure and as little tension as possible. Through a gradual, thoughtful process, students cultivate awareness, adaptability, and the ability to stay calm when situations become challenging. Sessions are varied and no two classes are alike. Participants work at a pace that suits them, focusing on movement quality, efficiency, and understanding over time. A typical class begins with breathing, movement, and conditioning rooted in Russian martial arts to ease mental and physical tension and develop a resilient, adaptable body. Training then progresses into rolling, falling, ground work, and movement drills built around one or more central themes. NC Systema is an official school of Systema Vasiliev, with instructors certified each year by Systema Headquarters in Toronto. For questions, email taylor@ncsystema.com.

Karaoke

A recurring party is held on the first Friday of every month.

Burnt Barrel

The Carolina Theatre of Durham

Chicago & Cabaret

The Carolina Theatre of Durham presents a back-to-back screening of two landmark movie musicals. The program opens with Rob Marshall’s Chicago (PG-13, 2002, 113 min). In 1920s Chicago, chorus hopeful Roxie Hart and headliner Velma Kelly land on death row and vie for the help of smooth-talking attorney Billy Flynn. Their struggle to avoid execution becomes headline-grabbing entertainment that blurs the line between notoriety and fame. The film won six Academy Awards, including Best Picture, and features high-energy musical numbers and razor-sharp satire. The evening continues with Bob Fosse’s Cabaret (PG, 1972, 124 min). Set in 1931 Berlin, American singer Sally Bowles performs at the Kit Kat Klub as the Nazi party rises, while the enigmatic Master of Ceremonies presides over a glittering refuge from the encroaching turmoil. Fosse’s direction and choreography shape a haunting, sophisticated musical, highlighted by Liza Minnelli’s Academy Award winning performance.

The Durham Jazz Workshop / Sharp 9 Gallery

Luther S. Allison Sextet

Luther S. Allison leads a sextet featuring Brandon Woody on trumpet, Lenard Simpson on alto saxophone, Jeffery Miller on trombone, Jonathon Müir-Cotton on bass, and Michael Piolet on drums, with Allison at the piano. Praised by the New York Times for breathing fresh life into the jazz piano tradition while honoring its legacy, the Charlotte, North Carolina native is a widely sought-after multi-instrumentalist whose playing draws on blues and gospel with firm roots in bebop and soul. His credits include performances with Jazzmeia Horn, Helen Sung, Samara Joy, Rodney Whitaker, Etienne Charles, The Baylor Project, and Ulysses Owens Jr., highlighting a bandleader recognized as a standout voice among his generation.

Dogstar: All In Now Tour

Dogstar brings the ALL IN NOW TOUR to Ritz Raleigh for an all-ages show. Ritz Raleigh operates as a general admission standing room only venue, and supporting acts may change without notice. The box office is available on event nights and can also handle purchases for other upcoming shows when inventory allows. Ticket options include a general public sale, presales for Citi Cardmembers and Live Nation, an artist presale, and VIP packages including a Dogstar VIP option.

The Ritz

Moore Square Visitor's Center

Raleigh True Crime Tour

This tour explores the darker side of Raleigh, sharing true accounts of crime and intrigue from the city’s past. Expect stories about a notorious North Carolina serial killer, a violent Russian oligarch, and a local figure likened to Jack the Ripper, along with additional chilling episodes drawn from the Oak City’s history.

The Spectacles and more

Stanczyk's Music Bar in Durham hosts a ska showcase featuring three local bands for $15: The Spectacles, The Unsustainables, and Ruler! Each group has a new record available now or arriving soon, and the merch table is the place to look for copies to take home.

Stanczyks Music Bar

Sleeping Booty

Sleeping Booty performs with Police & Thieves in a live show. Ticket options include general admission at $14.50 in advance or $20 on the day of the show. Balcony general admission is $25, with a day of show balcony price of $30.

Southgate 40 Rocks Real McCoy’s AGAIN!!

Southgate 40 returns to Real McCoy's in Wake Forest for another rock-filled show. Back at the spot of a previous celebration, the band brings a party vibe once again.

Drawing Studio

Learn and refine drawing skills in a relaxed, semi-private setting with artist and instructor Mary Lou Amy at The Makery. Designed for ages 13 and up, this studio format lets participants choose their own project and work at a comfortable pace, with the option to continue a piece over multiple sessions or begin something new when ready. Individual guidance is central to the experience, with focused feedback on perspective, composition, and other fundamentals tailored to each skill level from beginner to advanced. Students select their preferred medium, including graphite, charcoal, colored pencils, or pastel. Attendance is flexible, whether weekly, every other week, or whenever schedules permit. The class operates on a pay-as-you-go model at $30 per class. Each participant supplies their own materials. Please bring a drawing surface such as paper or a sketchbook, along with pencils, erasers, colored pencils, and any favorite tools.

Raleigh TCG Con XI

Raleigh TCG Con XI expands to a three day trading card game showcase at Triangle Town Center. The show floor gathers major titles like Pokémon, Yu-Gi-Oh!, Magic: The Gathering, One Piece, Lorcana, Dragon Ball Super, Digimon, Flesh and Blood, Riftbound, and others, with plenty of singles, sealed product, imported releases, vintage Pokémon, graded cards, and current format staples. Entry and parking are free. Bring your binder, since vendors are also collectors who buy and trade with attendees throughout the event in addition to selling. New hobbyists, curious parents, and kids can step in without pressure, get answers to their questions, and leave with a first big pull or a long sought card while connecting with the Triangle’s collector community.

Triangle Town Center

United Skates of America, Inc.

Toddler Rave

United Skates Raleigh hosts a high-energy toddler event filled with music, movement and glowing fun. Designed for little ones and their caregivers, the experience features skating, ride on toys, a lively dance party and a dedicated glow area. Each child ticket is $12 and includes one adult admission, plus a glow stick, five nuggets and a juice box. Skate rental is available for $6.

Audio Advice Live 2026

Now in its fifth year, this showcase of music and home cinema takes over the Sheraton Raleigh Hotel in downtown Raleigh. Explore more than 60 listening rooms where leading audio and video brands unveil new products and innovations. Learn directly from industry professionals, with guidance that ranges from DIY tips to deep-dive calibration techniques. Talk with product managers and engineers, move from room to room to compare systems, or settle in and take it all in. Demonstrations feature a wide spectrum of high-performance gear, from budget friendly setups to ultra high-end equipment. Tickets are offered as early-bird and on-site options. Early-bird pricing is $25 for a 1-day pass and $45 for a 3-day pass, with free admission for children and students 21 and under. On-site pricing is $30 for a 1-day pass and $50 for a 3-day pass, with children and students 21 and under admitted free. Every ticket includes access to all listening rooms, educational sessions, panel discussions, and a concert with a keynote presentation.

Sheraton Raleigh Hotel

The Original Raleigh Ghost Walk

At the Raleigh State Capitol, a professional historian leads a ghost and urban legend walk that delves into Raleigh’s eerie past. Expect tales of slimy creatures said to lurk in the sewers, the rattling echoes linked to a train crash, and hauntings around antebellum homes, along with other unsettling pieces of local lore. The tour emphasizes careful research that separates myth from reality, presenting figures, places, and stories that are documented and independently verifiable.

Raleigh State Capitol

Teen Drawing & Painting Studio

Teens ages 12-18 can join a relaxed, semi-private drawing and painting studio at The Makery. You’ll work on a project you choose, with tailored help from an instructor, and you’ll provide your own materials based on what you want to create. The class runs for two hours, giving you a chance to build skills and make progress at your own pace.

Beginners Wheel Throwing Class: First Spin

Ready to try the pottery wheel for the first time? This one-time beginners intro class will walk you through the essentials of wheel throwing, including how to center clay, pull up your walls, and use the wheel safely, plus how to clean up afterward. No prior experience is needed, and it is for ages 8 and up. Pieces go through bisque firing, and you will be emailed when they are ready. You can then return at your convenience to apply glaze at no extra cost.

Tim McGraw

Country music stars Tim McGraw and 49 Winchester are taking the stage for an evening show at Coastal Credit Union Music Park at Walnut Creek. Doors are scheduled for 7:00 PM, with tickets available via Ticketmaster through Spotify’s ticket link.

Dogstar

Dogstar, along with The Backfires, is set to perform at The Ritz in Raleigh. The show starts at 7:00 PM.

The Ritz

Mystic Farm & Distilling Company

Bourbon & Belly Laughs — Mystic Farm & Distillery

Get ready for an evening of live stand-up comedy at Mystic Farm & Distillery, hosted by Chetan Tiwari, with additional performances by Jack Obringer and Cabell Wilkinson. Doors open at 6:00 PM, and the first act starts at 7:00 PM. Tickets are $15, and everyone attending must be 21+. There will also be a food truck, Ernestine's Caribbean Cuisine.

Rene Vaca

Catch stand-up comedian Rene Vaca at Raleigh Improv. Doors open at 5:30 PM, with the show starting at 7:00 PM. Seating is general admission and first-come, first-served, and the event is 21+ only. There’s also a two-item minimum purchase required in the showroom, and photography or video recording isn’t permitted during performances. Tickets are e-mailed closer to the event date, and all sales are final.

An Evening with Mason Via

Mason Via will perform an acoustic country, folk, newgrass, Americana, and bluegrass set at The Wake Forest Listening Room. The show is scheduled to start in the evening, with tickets available through ticket partners listed on the page.

Sleeping Booty with Police and Thieves

At Lincoln Theatre Raleigh in Raleigh, North Carolina, Sleeping Booty appears alongside Police and Thieves.

Join in on the Craft – An Introduction to Joinery

This hands-on class explores the fundamentals of woodworking joinery through five essential techniques. Participants practice miter, butt, dado, rabbet, and rabbeted dado joints using a router table and a table saw. By the end, you will have tried each method and assembled a small demonstration shelf to take home. The session also includes a show-and-tell of additional joinery options to broaden your understanding. Wear closed-toed shoes and avoid loose clothing or jewelry. All materials, tools, and safety gear are provided. The fee is $85, and registration is required through the organizer’s website. The class is taught by Brad Broge. The cancellation policy offers a full refund up to seven days in advance, and registrations can be transferred up to the same cutoff. There are no refunds or transfers within the seven-day window.

Bull City Woodshop

Carolina Birth and Wellness

Infant Feeding Essentials Class

This group class blends clear, evidence-based teaching with interactive, hands-on practice. Led by an Infant Feeding Specialist, it covers breastfeeding and chestfeeding, pumping techniques, bottle feeding, hand expression, and formula use, along with guidance on when each method may be introduced. Participants receive a brief historical overview of breast and chestfeeding, learn to recognize their baby's feeding cues, practice positioning, paced bottle feeding, burping, hand expression, and pumping, and talk through common challenges and where to find support. The fee is $150 for the birthing person and their support partner.

Financial Education Series - Outsmart the Scammers

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

E. Carroll Joyner Park

Volleynati Charity Event 2026

Now in its fourth year, this charity volleyball tournament returns to Jaycee Park in Raleigh with a 5v5 format featuring 20 teams. Each team receives jerseys, and the event adds to the energy with music from a live DJ, giveaways, and photo and video highlights shared on Instagram. It focuses on volleyball, community, friendly competition, and giving back.

Jaycee Park

Beginners Wheel Throwing

Start your pottery journey with a single-session beginner class led by instructor Steffen. Learn the essentials of wheel throwing, including how to center clay, pull walls, and operate and clean the wheel safely. No prior experience is required, and you can expect to get a little messy while you explore the basics. This class is mandatory for Makery members before using the wheel independently during open studio hours. Completion fulfills the prerequisite for the 6 week Intro to the Wheel workshop as well as other intermediate or advanced wheel classes. After finishing, participants are cleared for solo wheel use and gain access to studio tools and equipment. After your piece is made, it will go through a bisque firing. An email will let you know when it is ready for glazing, and you can return to apply glaze at no additional charge. The full process from creation to completion typically takes about three to four weeks. Please plan to pick up finished work within 90 days of the email notification. The class includes guided, hands-on instruction, all necessary materials and tools, and kiln firing for one completed piece. Arrive ready to throw on the wheel.

Gizmo Brew Works - Durham

North Carolina Chapter 4th Annual Conservation Banquet

The North Carolina chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers is holding its fourth annual conservation banquet at Gizmo Brew Works in Durham. The gathering celebrates hands-on conservation and public land protection, with time to share stories, connect with others who care about wild places, and enjoy food and cold beer. A raffle and auction will offer gear prizes, and winning is limited to those in attendance. More details will be shared as the event approaches.

Summer Concerts in the Park

Durham Parks and Recreation presents a free, family-friendly Summer Concerts in the Park event now hosted at Rock Quarry Park, featuring live music, a relaxed setting, and food trucks. This date spotlights Ally J with a mix of country, soul, R&B, Motown, and funk. Bring a blanket or chair and settle in with friends and family to enjoy the music. The concert is rain or shine, and alcohol and smoking are not permitted.

Rock Quarry Park

Zinchouse Winery & Brewery

RadioStar Live

RadioStar brings a high energy night to Zinchouse Winery & Brewery, spanning the 80s MTV era through the 2000s. Expect danceable, singalong favorites with hits from artists such as Journey, AC/DC, Def Leppard, Jon Bon Jovi, Pat Benetar, Alanis Morrisette, Guns and Roses, The Outfield, Walk the Moon, Jimmy Eat World, Backstreet Boys, Radiohead, Britney Spears, Paramore, Blink-182, Killers, Nirvana, and Fall Out Boy. A lively celebration of chart-toppers across decades, perfect for anyone who loves classic and modern pop-rock anthems.

Cosmic Charlie's Annual "Days Between" Show

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.

Succotash Southern and Creole Kitchen

Les Trois Chats--Hot Club Jazz

Les Trois Chats brings danceable hot club jazz inspired by Django Reinhardt, blended with the lively swing tradition of the Benny Goodman and Charlie Christian sextets. The program also eases into smooth Brazilian bossa nova for a rich mix of rhythms and moods. The group features Triangle musicians Robert Striegler on guitar and vocals, Jodi Miller on violin, Josh Brinkman on clarinet and sax, and Ian Finlay on upright bass.

Trivuj মানে গান ft. Komolapur Express

Trivuj – Triangle Music Project presents Komolapur Express for an evening of Bangla band music in the Triangle, blending nostalgia, high energy, and a celebratory atmosphere. The lineup features vocalist Anila Chowdhury, known for songs such as Ek Paye Nupur 2 and Gaibona, alongside Gourav Golpo, a Bangla music performer from the DMV area. With a full live band, the artists revisit beloved songs on stage in Raleigh, NC.

Jones Auditorium

Will Campbell Sextet

Will Campbell leads a jazz sextet that highlights his roles as alto saxophonist, composer, and arranger. He serves as Director of Jazz Studies and Professor of Saxophone at UNC Charlotte, holds a DMA from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, and earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of North Texas. During his time at UNT, he performed with the One O’Clock Lab Band and conducted the Three O’Clock Lab Band. From 1999 to 2019 he was part of the University of North Texas Summer Jazz Workshop faculty and has been invited to direct All-State Jazz Bands in Texas, New Mexico, Oklahoma, South Carolina, and North Carolina. Earlier in his career he toured internationally and recorded with the Harry Connick, Jr. Orchestra. His writing has appeared in Jazz Education Journal, The Saxophone Journal, Teaching Music through Performance in Jazz, and The Saxophone Symposium, and his compositions and arrangements are published by University of Northern Colorado Jazz Press and Dorn Publications. He is an Artist and Clinician with the Conn-Selmer Company and a Performing Artist with D’Addario Reeds. The ensemble features Dave Finucane on tenor saxophone, Evan Roberson on trombone, Greg Santa Croce on piano, Jason Foureman on bass, and Kobie Watkins on drums, with Campbell on alto saxophone.

Skweezy Jibbs Makes a Movie

Catch the Raleigh Durham premiere of Skweezy Jibbs Makes a Movie at AMC Southpoint 17, featuring a live appearance by Skweezy Jibbs along with a Q&A and meet and greet. From producers behind Portlandia and Documentary Now, this single-evening screening takes place in auditorium 16, and the feature will begin without any previews. The film follows internet legend Skweezy Jibbs as he sets out to make his dream project, describing it as a mashup of John Wick, Magic Mike, Transformers, and Fast and the Furious, despite having no budget, no experience, and no filmmaking know-how.

AMC Southpoint 17

North Hills Farmers Market

Midtown Farmers Market

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.

SoDu Farmers' Market

Celebrate local agriculture at the South Durham Farmers' Market at Hub RTP, a weekly gathering focused on connecting the community with fresh, locally grown food. The market supports sustainable farming that preserves farmland and cares for the local environment. Shoppers can meet the farmers who grow the fruits and vegetables they buy and explore one-of-a-kind items from local artisans. Whether searching for peak season ingredients or aiming to support local businesses and sustainable practices, there is something for every taste. Weekly vendor lineups and special happenings are shared on the market’s website calendar.

Forest Rising

Huron Stage Music Venue hosts a night of original music featuring Forest Rising, Megayacht, and Square One. Three local bands share the bill for a varied showcase of homegrown material.

Huron Stage Music Venue

NC State Fairgrounds - Exposition Center

Repticon Raleigh

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.

HVF Vendor Markets

The monthly market at Hope Valley Farms YMCA provides a welcoming space for vendors to present their work and network with area small business owners. Vendor registration is available. For questions, contact Chantel.Kumaraswamy@YMCATriangle.org.

Hope Valley Farms YMCA

Carolina Birth and Wellness

Newborn 101

Prepare for your newest addition in an engaging, hands-on class designed to build confidence in early parenting. Over three hours, the class explores supportive mantras for the transition to parenthood, what to expect from a newborn’s appearance and behavior, calming and soothing methods, practical skills for bathing and diapering, safe sleep practices, and ways to strengthen protective factors while caring for yourself as a new parent, along with other helpful guidance. The fee is $150 for the birthing person and a partner.

Alibi

Alibi ignites Real McCoy's with unrestrained rock chaos. Wild attitude and crowd-fueled jams set the tone as the band tears through a set of cover hits delivered hard and loud. The atmosphere centers on audience energy, and the band brings the Alibi with a full-throttle performance made for a high-volume night.

Free Intro Class

This free class introduces the core techniques of boxing in a one hour session. Bring a water bottle and wear workout clothes, and all other equipment will be provided.

Sweets Boxing

2nd Annual Triangle Native American Film Festival

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.

Rialto Theatre

The Market

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.

Raleigh Iron Works

NCCU McDouglas-McLendon Gymnasium

NAMI Durham's Hoops 4 Hope

NAMI Durham invites middle school and high school students to take part in Hoops 4 Hope, a youth basketball event that also features a 3-point shooting contest. Participants will build leadership skills, connect with first responders and community leaders, promote mental health awareness, and practice teamwork and sportsmanship in a supportive setting. Jerseys will be provided to all players, and students can proudly represent their schools and neighborhoods. Parents can expect an uplifting experience that helps young people stay engaged, grow confidence, and form positive relationships while contributing to a community effort centered on hope, wellness, and youth empowerment. Space is limited. To register, email vicepresident2@namidurham.org and use the subject line Hoops 4 Hope Player Registration.

The Triangle Wedding Show

The Triangle Wedding Show is back at the North Carolina State Fairgrounds, offering a chance to meet dozens of wedding vendors across categories like planners, photographers, caterers, and venues. Guests can stop by the Jim Graham building to sample bites, gather wedding day inspiration, and connect with vendors to help build their dream team. Admission is free to $35.

Jim Graham Building

Saturdaze: Danger Hall

Settle into SATURDAZE at Boxyard RTP, a brunch-friendly live music series where you can pick up food and drinks from on-site vendors and ease into the weekend with eclectic, electric sounds. This installment features Danger Hall, a renegade quartet exploring the boundaries of songwriting and mystical body jazz. Performances take place on the BeatBox stage beneath the covered Pavilion and generally continue in most weather, however shows will be canceled if flooding, ice, or lightning creates unsafe conditions. Check Instagram for any updates to the schedule or cancellations. By attending, guests consent to photo, video, and audio recording for use by Boxyard RTP in any medium. Find the band on Instagram at @dangerhall_band.

The Triangle Wedding Show | Raleigh Wedding Show

Plan your celebration with ease at the Triangle Wedding Show, where a wide range of trusted wedding professionals gather under one roof at the NC State Fairgrounds - Expo Building. Meet photographers, florists, venues, caterers, and more, compare options, and discover fresh ideas to shape your day. Ticket options include a VIP Experience for $40 that provides early entry, one admission, a complimentary drink, and two free wedding bands. General admission is free for the first 1,500 tickets, after which online tickets are $15.

Jim Graham Building

August Plant Swap!

Plant lovers can gather at Durham Beer Garden for a free plant swap with The Durham Plant People. Bring plants, cuttings, or propagations to trade, or simply relax and add to your collection. Meet local enthusiasts, discover local plant sales and deals, and exchange tips, advice, and inspiration. A Paint-a-Pot station is available for all ages. Guests can enjoy a drink, make new connections, and spend a relaxed afternoon surrounded by greenery.

Durham Beer Garden

Goat’s Milk Soap-Making Workshop

Unwind with a hands-on Sip & Create workshop where you’ll make your own handcrafted goat’s milk soap set. You’ll follow guided steps to swirl colors, blend scents, and layer botanicals, with options like lavender, lemon, eucalyptus, soft florals, and citrus blends. The finished soaps are great for gifting or everyday self-care, and the workshop is beginner-friendly with all materials and tools provided. The event runs about 2 hours, and you’re welcome to purchase beverages at the brewery during the workshop. Kids are welcome with an accompanying adult.

The Glass Jug Beer Lab

The Third Place Coffee Shop

Raleigh Singles Event: Speed Dating (Ages 25–40) at Coffee Shop

Join Jigsaw Dating for an in-person speed dating event at a local coffee shop where you can meet single people ages 25 to 40. The night runs on a speed dating format with short rounds to chat and get to know different people, plus conversation card prompts to help break the ice. A host will check you in on arrival and guide the event, and gender balance is guaranteed. Check-in closes 15 minutes after the event start time, and tickets are non-refundable.

Gizmo Brew Works - Durham Taproom

Fundraisers

North Carolina BHA 4th Annual Conservation Banquet

Get together with the North Carolina Backcountry Hunters & Anglers community for the 4th Annual Conservation Banquet at Gizmo Brew Works in Durham. Enjoy food and a drink ticket, plus plenty of time to connect, swap stories, and celebrate the work protecting public lands. The night will also feature a raffle and auction with prizes, so bring your crew and be ready to bid and win.

Cirque de Vol Aerial, Yoga, Fitness & Circus Community

Tantra Speed Date® in Raleigh, NC

Tantra Speed Date is a guided, PG-rated matchmaking experience designed to help singles connect beyond small talk. After check-in and an icebreaker game, the event shifts into a ceremony and facilitated dating stations where you meet multiple people in a mindful, structured setting. The night includes doors open and check-in timing, followed by door close once the main portion begins.

Stephen Wilson Jr

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.

Bronco

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

Rene Vaca

Get ready for a night of stand-up with Rene Vaca at Raleigh Improv. Doors open at 8:45 PM, and the show starts at 9:00 PM. Seating is general admission and first-come, first-served, and there’s a two-item minimum purchase requirement in the showroom. Admission is 21+.

Haley Ellis

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

Tween Moon

Part of the Tween Moon series, this gathering centers on Moontime creativity for girls ages 9 to 15. With guidance from Nana Shemora in a traditional rites of passage approach, participants explore menstrual empowerment during this coming-of-age season. Time is devoted to reconnecting with nature and caring for mind, body, and soul, encouraging practices of self-care and self-love. Every session is interactive and opens with bellydance.

Amir Institute

United Skates of America, Inc.

Skate with Stitch

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.

Workshop with Elain Neil Orr

Acclaimed North Carolina novelist Elaine Neil Orr leads a hands-on session that uses clay work to jumpstart writing. Participants will shape a small piece from fast drying clay, which will be provided, choosing an image or object that sparks inspiration. Orr will discuss how engaging a different art form can open a pathway into prose, with sculpture serving as a practical tool for finding a beginning. This approach connects to her experience creating the central character in her novel Dancing Woman. Cost is $5, payable on arrival, and RSVPs are requested. Orr is the author of six books along with numerous essays, stories, poems, and reviews. Dancing Woman, published by Blair, was a finalist for the Sir Walter Raleigh Award, earned a silver medal in the May Sarton Awards for historical fiction, and is a Foreword Indie Award finalist for literary fiction. Her earlier novels include A Different Sun and Swimming Between Worlds, the latter a finalist for the 2019 Phillip H. McMath Post-Publication Book Award in Fiction and longlisted for the Clara Johnson Award for Women’s Literature. She also wrote the memoir Gods of Noonday, A White Girl’s African Life. Born and raised in Nigeria as the child of expatriate parents, she often writes toward the idea of home. She teaches English at North Carolina State University and serves on the faculty of the Naslund-Mann Brief-Residency MFA in Writing Program at Spalding University in Louisville. She lives in Raleigh with her husband, Andy.

Page 158 Books

Five Oaks Seventh-day Adventist Church

Shape Note Singing: Sacred Harp & Shenandoah Harmony

Shape-note singing at Five Oaks Seventh-day Adventist Church features selections from The Sacred Harp (2025) and The Shenandoah Harmony. First-time singers are encouraged, and books to borrow will be on hand. Accessibility information is available.

Systema Martial Arts: Free Trial Class for Beginners

This free trial class for beginners introduces Systema, a whole-person approach to martial arts that blends training with elements of yoga, massage, and meditation. Participants explore practical self-protection by developing natural, instinctive movement while building strength, flexibility, and a calmer relationship to stress. Core principles focus on moving freely with solid structure and minimal tension. Through a progressive approach, students cultivate awareness, adaptability, and composure so they can respond smoothly in uncertain situations. Each session is varied rather than repetitive, and everyone works at a pace that suits them. A typical start includes breathwork, mobility, and conditioning exercises rooted in Russian martial traditions to release tension and build resilient movement. Training then often moves into rolling, safe falling, groundwork, and theme-based drills that emphasize quality, efficiency, and understanding. NC Systema is an official school of Systema Vasiliev, with instructors who renew certification annually through the headquarters in Toronto.

Power Tools 101

Gain practical confidence with core power tools in a hands-on class designed to remove the intimidation factor. Instead of building a project, participants receive step-by-step instruction and supervised practice to learn safe operation and essential functions. The curriculum centers on a recommended homeowner toolkit, covering the circular saw, jigsaw, miter saw, and power drill. By the end, participants are prepared to use these tools safely for basic DIY tasks at home. All tools, supplies, and safety equipment are provided. Wear closed-toed shoes, choose clothing that will not catch on equipment, and keep jewelry to a minimum. This class runs on an ongoing basis and only needs to be taken once. The fee is $75, and registration is required through the website. Cancellation policy: full refunds and registration transfers are available up to 7 days before the class. Within 7 days there are no refunds and no transfers.

Bull City Woodshop

Walt Weiskopf NY-DC Connection Quartet

Saxophonist, composer, and author Walt Weiskopf appears with a powerhouse quartet that highlights his New York roots and wide-ranging experience. He launched his career at 21 with the Buddy Rich Big Band in 1981, then went on to release 25 critically acclaimed recordings and amass numerous sideman credits alongside artists including Buddy Rich, Frank Sinatra, Steely Dan, Donald Fagen, Boz Scaggs, and Michael McDonald. The ensemble features Weiskopf on tenor saxophone with Harry Appelman on piano, Amy Shook on bass, and Stefan Schatz on drums.

Raleigh Memorial Auditorium

Prabhu Deva

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.

North Carolina Songwriters in the Round

Jason Adamo curates a North Carolina songwriters-in-the-round showcase spotlighting eight artists: Daniel Anderson, Marye Amanda McDaniel, Jared Place, Dennis Kennedy, Brodie Cormack, Hunter Grant, Mysti Mayhem, and Nick Autry. Advance tickets are $14.50, day-of tickets are $20.00, and a VIP table for four is available for $120.00.

Sunday Salsa Social

A weekly Sunday dance social at Triangle Dance Studios, established in 2009 and now in its 18th year. It starts with a beginner-friendly salsa lesson, then moves into social dancing. The playlist favors salsa and bachata, with salsa making up close to half the music and bachata nearly as much, plus a few cha cha, kizomba, merengue, and cumbia tracks. Admission is 10 dollars at the door, or 8 dollars for active military and students with ID. Most DJs can accept Venmo and credit cards, but cash is recommended, and there may be an additional fee for card payments. Guests 17 and under are free with an accompanying adult, or 5 dollars if attending alone. The DJ lineup usually rotates by week, with DJ Abuelo Salsero Jack Wolf on first Sundays, DJ Salsa Mike and Michael Delucia on second Sundays, DJ Pedro Paz on third Sundays, DJ Monte Alban and Eliuth Cruz Lopez on fourth Sundays, and a guest DJ on fifth Sundays. For questions, contact Jack Wolf at jackhwolf49@gmail.com or 919-245-8393 or 743-208-5497. New visitors should know the building has no sign and looks like a two story cream colored house, and it is next door to Research Triangle Dental with a large sign.

Triangle Dance Studios

The Dirty V Plant - Based Noshery

Love Island Watch Party Sundays

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.

The Carolina Theatre of Durham

The Wallflowers

The Wallflowers lead the bill, joined by special guest Aaron Lee Tasjan. Ticket options include a presale and a Live Nation presale, followed by a public onsale.

Raleigh Comic Book Show

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.

Hilton Garden Inn

Sound Healing

Settle into a restorative sound bath at Health House, where layers of resonant tones invite quiet reflection and ease. Gentle frequencies and vibrations are used to soothe the nervous system and support emotional balance. Drawing on traditions that span millennia and on modern research, sound therapy has been associated with reduced blood pressure, a slower pulse, and support for the parasympathetic response. The experience features a rich soundscape created with 10 crystal singing bowls, 4 Tibetan singing bowls, Four Elements Koshi chimes, 9 Solfeggio pipes, wind percussion chimes, a crystal pyramid, 3 gongs, and a rain disk. Open to ages 12 and older. Participants under 18 must attend with an adult and remain quiet and respectful. No prior experience is required. A yoga mat and blanket are provided for each participant, and you are welcome to bring extra cushions, pillows, or blankets for added comfort on the floor. Please leave cell phones and smartwatches in your vehicle during the session. Price is $40.

Health House

Commander Free Play

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

Galactic Games

Plants and Pollinators Market

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.

Atlantic Gardening

Midtown Park at North Hills

Raleigh Underground Market

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.

QiGong Flow

Guided by LeAnna Marie, this gentle Qi Gong class centers breath, mindful movement, and attentive awareness to support balance, vitality, and a calm mind. The pace is unhurried to encourage deeper bodily attunement and a sense of ease. Participants can expect grounding movements, guided breathing, quiet moments for integration, and a welcoming space free of judgment. It is open to ages 15 and up, with those under 18 attending with an adult. No prior experience is required. Wear comfortable clothing and, if desired, bring water in a sealable non breakable bottle. The aim is to settle the mind, feel more at home in your body, and deepen your connection with yourself. The cost is $20. During class, cell phones and smart watches should be left in a vehicle or secured in a complimentary locker.

Zinc House Winery & Brewery

Yoga

Set among vineyards and wide open views, outdoor yoga at Zinc House Winery & Brewery brings movement, breath, and connection to a scenic 87-acre setting with walking trails, rooftop decks, and welcoming gathering spaces. The practice is guided by Sharon MacGregor, founder of Serenity Farm, a 26-acre retreat devoted to wellness, community, and personal growth, with occasional appearances by guest teachers from the local yoga community. Sunday’s Flow & Grow class is beginner friendly and moves with intention, linking breath and mindful pacing. Expect gentle chaturangas, a slightly quicker flow that still offers plenty of options for every level, and a warm, supportive atmosphere that nurtures body and spirit. Serenity Farm is nearby for those interested in exploring movement and mindfulness more deeply. Plan to linger afterward to soak up the setting. Browse Tip-Z Boutique, enjoy gourmet coffee or a bite from a food truck, sip bubbly or another refreshing drink, play a round of cornhole, and take in the vineyard views with new or familiar friends. For comfort, bring a yoga mat, wear easy-moving clothing, and pack water. An eye cover can add relaxation, and a cushion or towel for the knees is strongly encouraged.

Marvel Multiverse @ Video Vortex - Alamo Drafthouse Raleigh

Jump into Marvel Multiverse, a tabletop RPG where you play as part of the Spider-Man family and try to escape The Collector. A narrator will guide you through a Timestream Adventure set in the Spider-Verse, with a condensed ruleset and 12 pre-made character options, plus all the game materials you need like tokens and dice. Your ticket includes a 30-minute intro and then a one-shot adventure that takes about 3 to 4 hours to complete.

Video Vortex

North Carolina Songwriters in the Round

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.

Bulbophyllums Demystified

Renowned grower and author Bill Thoms leads a lively presentation that unpacks the world of Bulbophyllums, a cultivar represented by more than 2,000 species. Drawing on over 45 years of experience and more than 50 cultural awards earned with his wife, Doris Dukes, he shares practical guidance with a light, humorous touch that benefits newcomers and seasoned growers alike. The American Orchid Society has recognized his contributions with a new annual award in his name. Books will be available for purchase. Admission is free and open to all.

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.

Summer Camp: Pet Mania Art Camp

Animal-loving kids can dive into a week of painting, drawing, and crafting inspired by beloved pets, from energetic puppies and cute kittens to brightly colored birds and fish. The camp fosters creativity and imagination with engaging, hands-on art projects throughout the week. It all concludes with a special art show where campers proudly share their creations with friends and family. Designed for ages 6 to 12. Early bird pricing is 275 dollars per week, with tuition increasing afterward. Registration covers the full week, and single day options, if offered, will be announced closer to the start. For a smooth experience, have your child wear clothes that can get messy, and pack a nut free lunch, a snack, and a water bottle each day.

Wine & Design

Horse Riding Summer Camp at MacNair's Country Acres, Raleigh, NC

MacNair's Country Acres in Raleigh offers a summer horseback riding camp for ages 6 to 14. Camp weeks align with the Wake County Schools Traditional Calendar summer break. Families can choose full-day or half-day sessions, with a half day recommended for ages 6 and 7. Campers are grouped by riding ability and ride once each day. No prior experience is required. Instruction focuses on essential horse care, including grooming, tacking, and post-ride routines, along with beginner riding skills. Lessons take place in the ring and on the trail. When not riding, campers can swim in an on-site pool with a certified lifeguard, build additional horsemanship skills, and enjoy crafts and games.

MacNair's Country Acres

North Carolina Museum of Art

Nature Stories at NCMA

Enjoy a family-friendly nature story time at the North Carolina Museum of Art. The experience begins with a shared story, then continues with hands-on, interactive activities that explore natural themes, and may include visits to other areas of the museum campus. This free program meets near the Welcome Center. Dress for the weather and be prepared for a walk, and keep in mind that most routes are stroller friendly. Geared toward children 7 and younger, with all ages welcome.

Horse Club- Free Kids Event

JAKS Stables Horse Club offers the community a chance to deepen equine knowledge across topics such as anatomy, diseases, etiquette, saddle fitting, and nutrition. The club is free to attend and geared toward ages 6 to 16. Riding is not included. It is also an opportunity for kids to meet fellow horse lovers and build friendships.

Targeted Tuesday Block Therapy

This targeted block therapy class focuses on freeing tight fascia in specific parts of the body. The target areas rotate each week, with the goal of easing restrictions that may support better mobility and posture. No prior experience is required. Participants must be at least 15 years old, and those under 18 need to attend with an adult. Blocks, supportive props, and a cushioned yoga mat are provided. Wear comfortable clothing and bring water in a sealable, nonbreakable bottle. The class fee is $22. For the duration of class, please keep cell phones and smart watches in your vehicle or secure them in the complimentary lockers.

Tuesday Cornhole Tournament

This weekly cornhole tournament offers friendly competition, plenty of laughs, and a welcoming community vibe. Special pricing features $2 Pabst Blue Ribbon beers and $1 off ciders.

Durham Bulls vs Memphis Redbirds | Homestand #11

Memphis visits Durham for Homestand 11 at Durham Bulls Athletic Park as the Redbirds make their first trip to town. The series features rotating promotions that include Tendies & Tallboys and Dollar Dogs. Friday Night Fireworks light up the ballpark alongside a COPA celebration. Augtoberfest brings more festivities with Saturday Night Fireworks and an appearance by Champ the Bat Dog. The homestand wraps with Princess & Pirates Night, and kids can take a victory lap during Kids Run the Bases.

Trivia Night

Test your knowledge at Parkside Restaurant in Raleigh with a no-cost trivia night. Teams compete for prizes awarded to the highest scorers. Participants can also sign up ahead of time to receive three free clues before the game.

Parkside Restaurant

Bowstring Pizza and Brewyard

MATISYAHU

Matisyahu brings a genre-crossing performance rooted in reggae, hip hop, alt rock, and inventive pop, the result of nearly twenty years of constant evolution. He first reached a wide audience with King Without a Crown in 2005 and the Grammy-nominated, Billboard-topping album Youth, then continued with the Gold-certified One Day, which has earned over 150 million streams. His live shows are known for high energy and room to improvise, shaped by a creative journey that draws on his Jewish heritage and Old Testament influences dating back to the start of his recording career. His recent EP, Hold The Fire, featuring the single Fireproof, looks to those same themes while contemplating celebrity and artistic success.

RODEO BOYS w/ Gainsay / Kai & Clyde at Stanczyks

andmoreagain presents a show featuring Rodeo Boys with support from Gainsay and Kai & Clyde. Rodeo Boys draw from country twang and grunge grit on their Don Giovanni debut album Home Movies, shaping loud, hooky alternative rock. The record includes the single Sugar, landing in the territory between Bully and SPICE, the big, riff-forward Dog Leg, a dynamic finale in Tomboy Radio, and a brief cosmic folk pause with Hail Mary. Led by vocalist Tiff Hannay, the band embraces its queer, blue-collar identity and aims to amplify the voices of young queer people in small towns. Gainsay brings two lead singers and a palette rooted in U.S. punk and post-hardcore. Bassist Dante and guitarist Joe share melodies and lyrics over gritty, nuanced hooks, while drummer Ryan supplies tight, driving rhythms and layered harmonies. A studio EP is slated for late 2026. Kai & Clyde add an easygoing alternative slacker-rock flavor from Chapel Hill, with Kai Bishop on vocals and guitar, Clyde Lambe on bass, and Jude Dasher on drums, marked by fuzzy guitars and memorable riffs. Tickets are $15 in advance or $18 on the day of the show.

Stanczyks Music Bar

Triangle Cinemas at Six Forks

Free Family Movie: The Wild Robot

A free family screening of The Wild Robot takes place at Triangle Cinemas at Six Forks in Raleigh, presented by Linda Craft Team, REALTORS. Admission is free and no tickets are required, so families, grandparents with grandkids, and summer camps can enjoy an animated adventure together. Multiple showings provide plenty of chances to attend. All ages are welcome, and concessions are available. This screening is part of a summer series of complimentary movies in Raleigh, sponsored by Linda Craft Team, REALTORS, which has been part of the local community since 1987.

Unofficial FPS Playground Playdates

Each week throughout the summer, families meet for informal playground playdates at parks across the Durham area. There is no cost or registration. Bring a snack, a water bottle, and a towel. The series offers a low-key way to meet the Family Preschool community, ask questions, and learn more about its supportive village. Locations rotate among Forest Hills Park, Rockwood Park, Sassafrass All Children's Playground, Gold Park, Saxapahaw Island Park, Trinity Park Playground, and Piney Woods Park. This session is set for Trinity Park Playground.

Durham, North Carolina

Raleigh Beyond Blue Neighborhood Center

Bingo

Seniors can enjoy a friendly Bingo session hosted by Blue Cross NC at the Raleigh Beyond Blue Neighborhood Center. The gathering includes a free lunch and opportunities to win prizes. Spots are limited and tend to fill quickly, so registration is encouraged. For assistance, call 1-888-275-7513, ex. 1.

Trivia Night

Head to DSSOLVR for a free, dog-friendly trivia night with Hammered Trivia. It runs Tuesdays starting at 7:00 PM, with no team limits and prizes for the top three teams. During the event you can also grab $6 IPAs and $1 Jell-o shots, and the venue has both indoor and covered patio space for dogs.

DSSOLVR Durham

Squishy Trading Day

Bring extra pop its, spinners, cubes, and squishies to trade with fellow fidget fans and discover new favorites. Whether you are a casual collector or a serious enthusiast, this meet-up centers on simple swapping... share what you have, connect with others, and find fresh pieces for your collection. Give it a spin, a pop, a squish, and make a trade at Learning Express.

Learning Express Toys

Evidence Based Birth® Six Week Series Childbirth Class

This six week childbirth series follows a flipped classroom approach, combining self-paced video lessons at home with in person, small group discussions and hands-on practice. Two seasoned perinatal professionals guide each session, focusing on current, research-based guidance to support informed decision-making throughout pregnancy, labor, and the postpartum period. Enrollment includes three months of access to Evidence Based Birth® class videos and additional newborn care content. Participants receive a workbook filled with useful information and extras to use before, during, and after birth, as well as a digital library of PDFs and videos that review key topics such as eating and drinking in labor, vitamin K, due dates, and more. Registration covers the birthing person and a support person.

Guided Meditation

Settle in for a calming guided meditation led by Marnie, who has been facilitating this practice for more than seven years. She blends soothing sound frequencies with gentle instruction to support self-healing. Whether you want to explore deeply or simply unwind, you can participate at the level that feels right for you. Participants ages 15 and older are welcome. Anyone under 18 must attend with a parent or guardian and maintain a quiet, respectful presence. Everything needed for comfort is provided, including a thick yoga mat, a blanket, a pillow, and an eye pillow. Bolsters are available while supplies last. You are welcome to bring extra cushions, pillows, or blankets if you prefer additional padding on the floor. The session is designed to calm the nervous system, invite relaxation, boost mood and energy, support immune health, and encourage better sleep, focus, mental clarity, personal growth, and overall mental and emotional wellness. Cost is $20. Please keep cell phones and smart watches out of the room by leaving them in your vehicle or securing them in a locker for the duration of class.

Wednesday Pool Tournament

Compete in a friendly 8-ball tournament at Keith’s Store in Wake Forest. The format is double elimination with a $10 entry fee. Bring your cue, enjoy a drink, and aim for the top spot.

Systema Martial Arts: Free Trial Class for Beginners

Try a free beginner-friendly Systema class at Triangle Aikido and explore a training approach that integrates martial arts, yoga, massage, and meditation to support both practical skills and overall well-being. Instruction centers on moving freely with sound structure and minimal tension, helping participants develop intuitive self-protection while becoming stronger, more flexible, and less weighed down by stress. Training is varied from session to session and avoids rote repetition. Everyone progresses at a comfortable pace with an emphasis on quality of movement, efficiency, and clear understanding. Classes commonly open with breathing, mobility, and conditioning work rooted in the Russian martial arts to release tension and build resilience. Practice then expands into rolling, falling, ground skills, and theme-based movement drills that sharpen awareness, adaptability, and calm in challenging situations. The aim goes beyond techniques to the capacity to remain centered and responsive when things are uncertain. NC Systema is an official school of Systema Vasiliev, with instructors who maintain annual certification through the headquarters in Toronto.

LAUNCH Networking

LAUNCH is a new networking group created by @foxtrotprint and Workspace for small business owners and entrepreneurs. Its mission is to offer an intentional space to refine business pitches, exchange strategic referrals, and build relationships that drive growth, collaboration, and opportunity. Attendees are encouraged to arrive prepared with their mission, a concise overview of their business model, their top referral needs, and a clear ask, since preparation helps everyone gain more from each session. The Launch Room serves business owners who are serious about growth, with a trusted, high energy environment focused on mutual support. Multiple participants from the same industry are welcome as long as each represents a distinct niche. The culture expressly avoids MLMs, pushy sales tactics, and unnecessary drama. Membership is $25 per month, and meetings take place weekly. Each gathering follows a consistent agenda that starts with a brief welcome and context, followed by two spotlight member presentations with short Q&A. An education segment called the Launch Lab Moment provides practical insights, then open networking and commitments help turn ideas into action, and the session closes with next steps.

Charismatic Chroma & Beautiful Brushstrokes

This workshop celebrates the fundamentals of strong painting, then invites participants to reinterpret them with fresh, rule-bending exploration under the guidance of Cathy Martin. Through demonstrations and thoughtful coaching, discover new ways to approach the subject you prefer, whether portrait, landscape, or something in between. Expand your palette with rich, saturated color and build the confidence to lay down bold, expressive brushstrokes. Cathy creates an uplifting space that balances respect for core principles with playful experimentation.

The Centerpiece

Elevated Power Hour - A Free Weekly Event - July Calendar

Elevated Energy Healing hosts Elevated Power Hour, a free weekly gathering where a different guest speaker introduces their work and shares their gifts through complimentary workshops and presentations. It offers a welcoming setting for seekers, healers, and the spiritually curious to listen, learn, and connect. Featured topics include Mary-Carmen Wiser of Create Space Mindfully, LLC on ketamine and mindfulness, Lori Tyman on all things fascia, Bindi Kumar guiding a Spirit Guide Journey along a shamanic path, Daphne Towell exploring the art of bone reading, and Marcie Dean with LovEvolve Music. Attendees are encouraged to bring questions, an open mind, and a willingness to receive.

Midweek Moves

All levels are welcome to join a fun full-body cardio Afrobeats dance workout. It’s a great way to get moving midweek, with a focus on cardio and whole-body energy.

Beyond Yane'

Wake Forest Community Library

Foundations of Government, Courts and Civic Life

Join a 1-hour in-person session that breaks down how government works and how courts fit into civic life. You’ll explore the structure of federal, state, and local governments, learn about the roles courts play, and compare trial and appellate courts. The program also focuses on why civic knowledge matters for informed participation in democracy. Presented by the Bolch Judicial Institute at Duke Law School.

The Philharmonik

The Philharmonik is bringing their alternative hip hop, spoken word, R&B, soul, and funk sounds to Kings in Raleigh. The show is scheduled to start at 7:00 PM.

Kings

Kinusaiga Craft Workshop at Hi-Wire Brewing!

Experience Kinusaiga, the Japanese art of creating images with fabric, at a hands-on workshop hosted by Hi-Wire Brewing. No prior experience is required, and all tools, materials, and instruction are provided. Everyone will complete a personal work of art finished in a shadow box frame to take home. Beverages from the host are available, and the setting encourages creativity and a fun, relaxed atmosphere.

Thursday Cornhole Tournament

A weekly Thursday cornhole tournament brings good-natured competition, plenty of laughs, cold drinks, and a welcoming community vibe. Registration takes place before the first toss, followed by tournament play. Look for drink specials such as $3 domestic beers and $4 Twisted Teas. It is a laid back way to gather with friends, throw some bags, and enjoy the evening.

Thursday Silent Bookcub

Set at Dssolvr Durham, this relaxed meetup invites readers to bring the book they are currently reading, enjoy a quiet period of focused reading together, then share highlights with tablemates. It begins with casual conversation, moves into roughly an hour of silent reading, and wraps up with a friendly discussion about what everyone read.

Dssolvr Durham

Music Bingo with Bingo Geeks

Bingo Geeks leads a soundtrack-driven music bingo night at Crooked Hammock Brewery with three themed rounds and prizes for each round winner. The music keeps flowing while players mark their cards, sing along to favorite songs, and enjoy good-natured competition. Relax with a drink, kick back in a hammock, and soak up the easygoing atmosphere. Arriving early makes it easier to get comfortable before the first track starts.

Crooked Hammock Brewery

Tricycle Trivia

Test your knowledge at a weekly trivia night at Crank Arm Durham that adds a playful third wheel twist. Expect fresh questions each week, prizes, and plenty of beer with optional snacks. Top teams earn gift cards. Arriving early is recommended to secure a seat and enjoy award-winning Crank Arm beer. Hints are shared each week to provide a sneak peek at the topics and a small advantage.

Crank Arm

The Old School Jam

The Old School Jam at Saints and Scholars brings musicians and artists together for an open jam focused on collaboration, networking, and live performance. It is a welcoming setting for swapping ideas, meeting potential bandmates, finding fill-ins, or connecting with new people to jam with. Sign-ups are in person only, with no advance reservations, and participants are encouraged to stay and support fellow performers throughout the night. The stage is fully equipped with sound and lighting, a drum kit, a Roland keyboard, two guitar amps and a bass amp, effects pedals, vocal monitors, and six microphones. A tablet is available with the Ultimate Guitar Chord app, scrolling lyrics, internet access, and a holder for devices. Video is captured from two camera angles and shared afterward with performers tagged, and professional event photography is provided. Attendees simply bring themselves and any instruments they play, such as guitar, bass, or pedal boards. The environment is well organized, free of drama and judgment, family friendly, and open to all ages and skill levels, whether performing or enjoying the music.

Saints and Scholars Pub

Florence Dore

The Wake Forest Listening Room hosts an evening that pairs story-rich rock from Florence Dore and her band with the folk and old-time harmonies of The Carolina Junebugs. Nashville-born and based in Chapel Hill, Dore brings songs from her third album, Hold the Spark, a release praised by David Menconi of Walter Magazine as one that would resonate with fans who miss Tom Petty. Known for vivid storytelling and a strong sense of melody, she has drawn comparisons to James McMurtry and Lucinda Williams. The new songs move from a tender tribute to her daughter to a gritty, Stooges-style sendup of tedious meetings, from a thoughtful look at a long-missed romantic chance to a meditation on love and mortality that recalls Aimee Mann. Her emotive vocals sit atop a driving rock band. Hold the Spark features an Americana cast that includes Jason Wilber and Chris Masterson on guitars, Will Rigby on drums, with appearances by Mark Spencer and Gene Holder. It was produced by Don Dixon and mixed by Paul Voran, with guest cameos from Mitch Easter, Libby Rodenbough, Robert Sledge, Kelly Pratt, and Bonnie and Eleanor Whitmore. Offstage, Dore teaches songwriting and literature at UNC Chapel Hill, has spent time on Steve Earle’s tour bus alongside her husband Will Rigby of the Dukes, has written books, organized conferences including one at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and raised their daughter. Opening the night, The Carolina Junebugs are a Chapel Hill trio featuring Emma Bishop, Booth Bassett, and Ellary Smith. They draw on Doc Watson, Gillian Welch, The Avett Brothers, and traditional Celtic melodies passed down over generations. All three sing and write, share original songs at weekly gigs, and recently recorded an Editor’s Notes session at The Daily Tar Heel office. Their first EP, Down in the Valley, was captured in a single take at Bassett’s house by John Wood, a fellow Carolina Bluegrass Band member and bassist for Davie Circle, in a process that felt home-cooked. This bill brings together Dore’s narrative rock and the Junebugs’ rootsy sound for a warm night of songs and stories.

Summer Moon Coffee (Heritage, NC)

Free Coffee or Latte

Everyone is welcome to enjoy a complimentary coffee or latte at Summer Moon in Heritage, Wake Forest. This monthly offering is provided courtesy of Allison Caudle Abbott of Southern Lux Living.

Durham Friends Meeting (Quakers)

Summer Zouk Series for Beginners

A summer series keeps the socials going with a welcoming introduction to Zouk tailored for new dancers. Hailey and KP lead the instruction, and the evening flows from a beginner friendly class into social dancing. A four week package is available for $65, which includes both the class and the social. Drop ins are welcome at $20 for class plus social, $15 for class only, and $8 for the social only. Registration is handled through the Venmo details shown in the event image. The gathering takes place at Durham Friends Meeting, in the building on the right side on the second floor near the Ronald McDonald House parking sign. Parking is permitted on the right side of the lot downhill from the meetinghouse, while the left side is reserved for Ronald McDonald House staff and guests. The small DFM lot to the right in front of the little meetinghouse is also available. The Duke Security lot across from the meetinghouse is generally fine unless a specific space is marked otherwise. Please avoid the lot downhill from the Duke Security lot beside the Episcopal Student Center and the lot near the Campus Security Office at the far end beside the Episcopal Center. Some street parking is also available.

Painting Studio with Clina Polloni

Explore a relaxed, semi private painting studio at The Makery with artist and instructor Clina Polloni. Designed for ages 14 and up, these small group sessions welcome beginners through advanced painters. Choose acrylic or oil and select a project that interests you, either the featured painting or a scene, still life, or landscape from Clina’s curated lesson plans. Work at your own pace, continue the same piece over multiple visits or start something new when you are ready, and your work will be kept ready for your return. Clina offers individual guidance tailored to your skill level, including feedback on color mixing, brushwork, composition, and more. Each session is a two hour class priced at $30 on a pay as you go basis. Students bring their own supplies, including a canvas or panel, paints, brushes, a palette, paper towels or rags, and a sealable container for solvents if using oils. A detailed supply list arrives with your ticket confirmation.

Inner Child Guided Meditation with Evann Lavender

Settle into a gentle guided meditation that invites you to slow down, look within, and renew a caring connection with your inner child. Through intention setting, a soothing body scan, and focused inner child practices, you will consider what that younger part of you wants to express and what support is needed. A soft exploration of the chakras helps integrate the experience and encourages calm and relaxation. This session is for ages 15 and up. Anyone under 18 must attend with an adult and remain quiet and respectful. Some prior meditation experience is recommended, along with the ability to self-regulate if uncomfortable emotions arise. Wear comfortable clothing and, if desired, bring water in a sealable, non-breakable bottle. A thick yoga mat, blanket, pillow, and eye pillow are provided for each participant, and bolsters are available on a first come, first served basis. The goal is to reconnect with your inner child and cultivate a sense of peace. Please leave cell phones and smart watches in your vehicle or secure them in the complimentary lockers during class. Price is $20.

Beginners Wheel Throwing

Get started at the pottery wheel with a single-session beginner class led by Steffen. Learn foundational skills such as centering, forming walls, and proper use and cleanup of the wheel. No prior experience is required, just a readiness to get a little muddy and enjoy the process. This class is mandatory for Makery members before using the wheel independently during open studio hours. Completion clears participants for solo wheel work and provides access to studio tools and equipment. It also serves as the prerequisite for the 6 week Intro to the Wheel workshop and other intermediate or advanced wheel classes. The class includes hands-on instruction, all necessary materials and tools, and firing for one finished piece. When your piece completes the bisque firing stage, an email will be sent so you can return to glaze it at no additional cost. The timeline from making to finished work typically runs three to four weeks. Please plan to pick up completed pieces within 90 days of the notification email. Arrive ready to throw.

Fri $3.50 White Claws & $5 Lemon Drop Shots

Enjoy drink specials featuring $3.50 White Claw hard seltzers and $5 Lemon Drop shots.

Durham Beer Garden

Friday Night on White

Wake Forest Downtown hosts Friday Night on White featuring The Amazing Lounge Lizards in a free, family friendly concert. Enjoy a high energy mix of classic rock and pop, hits from the 70s, 80s and 90s, R&B dance, Top 40, and Motown favorites. Part of the 2026 Friday Night on White concert series, this community celebration spotlights local and regional party bands and offers an easygoing night out for all ages.

Wake Forest Downtown

SEAS - Summer South East Acro Skillshare - August 14 - 16

S.E.A.S., the South East Acro Skillshare, brings acro communities together in Raleigh, North Carolina for a multi-day gathering focused on sharing skills and connecting with friends from near and far. The setting is a new gym outfitted with a spring floor, areas of carpet-bonded foam, and a large resi pit centered on a stage. Lines have not all been set, but a standalone rig with lines is expected, and with only one set available there will be a strong focus on safe spotting. Entry is $25 per day with tickets available at the door, and a simple sign-up form helps organizers plan. Lunch and dinner will be offered for a suggested donation of $5 to $10 per meal. Attendees are asked to bring their own cups and utensils. Payments can be made in cash or via Venmo to Tim @Timothy-Furman. A waiver for Enso Movement is required, and those who completed it at the previous SEAS do not need to do so again. Group housing may be coordinated through Cassandra, and a WhatsApp group is available for ride sharing and housing connections. Rides to and from the airport can likely be arranged. Depending on the weather, fire spinning may be part of the festivities, and the weekend wraps up with a community cleanup to reset the gym.

Triangle Aikido, 4603 Hillsborough Rd, Durham, NC, United States, North Carolina 27705

SYSTEMA Martial Arts: Free Trial Class for Beginners

Experience a free trial class that introduces Systema, a whole-person approach to training for mind, body, and spirit. This practice weaves together elements of martial arts, yoga, massage, and meditation to build practical self protection skills while increasing strength, flexibility, and ease from stress. Instruction focuses on moving with strong structure and minimal tension, helping participants develop awareness, adaptability, and calm in demanding situations. Sessions are varied rather than repetitive, and everyone can progress at a comfortable pace while refining movement quality and efficiency. A typical class starts with breath work, mobility, and conditioning specific to this Russian martial art to release tension and build resilience, then continues into rolling, falling, groundwork, and movement drills organized around central themes. NC Systema is affiliated with Systema Vasiliev, and instructors maintain yearly certification through the headquarters in Toronto.

FTB & FRIDAY at CAROLINA ALE HOUSE- Wake Forest

Experience live music from Faster Than Boys on the back screened-in porch at Carolina Ale House in Wake Forest, with food and drinks available and space to spend time with friends.

Jack Trathen Group

Raleigh-born trombonist Jack Trathen leads a quartet with Jonah Smith on piano, Butler Knowles on bass, and Jasmine Best on drums. An alumnus of the Durham Jazz Workshop and Triangle Youth Jazz, he earned recognition during his time at Michigan State University from the International Trombone Association, the American Trombone Workshop, and Jazz Aspen Snowmass. He has performed alongside Christian McBride, Wycliffe Gordon, Ulysses Owens Jr., Jazzmeia Horn, The Temptations, Carmen Bradford, and John Clayton. Beyond the stage, his inventive compositions and arrangements have been highlighted by the Louis Armstrong House Museum in New York City.

Demon King / Deathless / Vectors / Necrocosm

An intense night of extreme metal featuring four bands. From Nashville, Demon King channels a blackened take on technical death metal, featuring alumni of Enfold Darkness and Inferi, pairing surgical precision with apocalyptic-scale songwriting. Deathless, also from Nashville, brings melodic death metal rich with soaring leads, punishing riffs, and nonstop energy, balancing ferocity with atmosphere. Raleigh-based Vectors unleash a bruising mix of slam and deathcore that refuses to slow down. The night begins with North Carolina heavy hitters Necrocosm, delivering dark melodic riffing and an old-school melodeath spirit rooted in the North Carolina underground.

Tristen

TRISTEN brings the Unpopular Music set to Motorco Music Hall with Emma Geiger. The Nashville artist is known for melodic songwriting grounded in vivid storytelling. Recording at home with longtime collaborator Buddy Hughen, she shapes intimate, cohesive tracks and celebrates creative independence. Her catalog spans the narrative pop sparkle of Charlatans at the Garden Gate, the synth-rich scope of C A V E S, and the blend of folk-rock warmth, garage bite, and cinematic pop found on Sneaker Waves. Unpopular Music marks the next step in that evolution. Emma Geiger adds an ethereal folk perspective shaped by daydreams and curiosity, exploring heartbreak with honesty and a sense of wonder. Her releases include the debut EP Haven on Ghost Mountain Records and Reverse Bloom, a nostalgia-tinged collection that ventures deeper into a shifting inner world. She is currently preparing a new set of songs for recording. Advance tickets are $20, with admission priced at $25 on the day of the show.

Stanczyks Music Bar

The Saturday Night Sunday Morning Tour

Grammy-winning artist PJ Morton brings The Saturday Night Sunday Morning Tour to Raleigh’s Meymandi Concert Hall, promising an evening of soul, storytelling, and exceptional musicianship. Rather than just a setlist, this performance focuses on moments that stay with you long after the music fades, shaping a concert experience meant to be truly memorable.

Creative Aging Mini-Retreat for Active Adults 55+

Created for active adults 55 and up, this three-hour mini-retreat supports body, mind, and spirit with a mix of creativity, connection, and a gentle look at creative aging. Set at Mini-Acres Farm, a country-style blueberry farm and event venue just outside Raleigh, it offers a friendly, nature-rich setting that welcomes all abilities. Expect hands-on creative activities, easy movement, and thoughtful conversation designed to spark curiosity and build community. Depending on the season, participants may enjoy picking blueberries outdoors and spending time with the farm’s friendly animals. The program weaves rhythm, mindfulness, and integrative coaching and is guided by Greg Whitt of Drum for Change, an award-winning edutainer and teaching artist, and Annelies Gentile of Conduit for Change, a certified integrative health and wellness coach and artist. Light lunch is provided.

Mini Acres Farm

Sales & Discounts

Carolina Fall Boat Show & Sale

This is a dedicated boat sale featuring remaining 2026 stock along with an early look at 2027 models in time for the fall boating season. Local and regional dealers will be on hand and prepared to offer pricing that fits families. The event takes place at the NC State Fairgrounds.

NC State Fairgrounds

Drawing Studio with Mary Lou Amy

Build your drawing skills in a relaxed, small-group studio led by artist and instructor Mary Lou Amy at The Makery. Participants 13 and older choose their own project and medium, working in pencil, charcoal, colored pencil, or pastel while progressing at a comfortable pace. Continue refining the same piece over multiple sessions or start something fresh whenever inspiration strikes. With individualized feedback on perspective, composition, and other fundamentals, the format supports beginners through advanced artists. The fee is $30 per two-hour session, paid per class. Students bring their own materials, including a sketchbook or other drawing paper, pencils, an eraser, colored pencils, and any preferred tools.

The Original Raleigh Ghost Walk

A professional historian leads a guided walk through Raleigh’s lore, tracing eerie tales of slimy creatures rumored to lurk in the sewers, the unsettling echoes of a train crash, haunted antebellum homes, and more. The route explores where history and myth intersect, examining the facts behind some of the city’s most unsettling stories and separating rumor from record. Positioned as a deeply researched experience, it highlights historical figures, ghosts, and urban legends with details that can be confirmed through independent sources, focusing on storytelling grounded in verifiable accounts.

Raleigh State Capitol

Teen Drawing & Painting Studio

Join a semi-private drawing and painting studio for teens ages 12 to 18. You’ll work on your own chosen project with guidance from an instructor in a relaxed, studio-style setting. The class runs as a 2-hour session, and students will need to bring their own materials based on what they want to create.

North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences

Museum Movie Night: Galaxy Quest

Join Museum Movie Night for a screening of Galaxy Quest (1999), a PG sci-fi comedy where a canceled TV show somehow inspires real aliens to recruit the cast for an interstellar rescue mission. The night includes live music and hands-on science stations with food and drinks available before the movie, plus movie commentary, trivia, and an expert science chat after the credits roll.

5 Seconds of Summer

Catch 5 Seconds of Summer live at Coastal Credit Union Music Park at Walnut Creek in Raleigh. The Band CAMINO is also on the lineup for this evening show.

PJ Morton

Catch Los Tucanes De Tijuana live at the Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts in Raleigh. The show starts at 8:00 PM.

Mini Dance Boot Camp

Mini Dance Boot Camp introduces kids to the joy of movement in a welcoming, beginner-friendly setting. Created for new dancers ages 5 and older, this two half-day program blends instruction and play so participants can sample several styles. Children rotate through beginner classes in ballet, tap, jazz, hip hop, and modern or contemporary, and take part in creative movement games along with simple strength and coordination activities. The focus is on learning fundamentals, trying something new, and having plenty of fun. Along the way, young dancers can grow their confidence, pick up new skills, and connect with friends who share their curiosity about dance.

Encore Academy of Dance

Author Event: Vanessa Miller

Author Vanessa Miller marks the release of her new novel, The Ladies Hall, in a conversation with Angela Anderson. Set in 1880s Ohio, the story follows two Black women, Mary and Anna, who enroll in Oberlin College’s Bachelor of Arts curriculum, a track long associated with male students. Mary comes from wealth and has attended presidential inaugurations with her father. Anna teaches school and takes on extra work to cover room and board. Despite their different beginnings, both are driven by education, courage, and the desire to create change. Their journey unfolds at a school that admitted men and women, white and Black students since the 1830s, yet where classmates still try to limit what a woman, especially a Black woman, can achieve. Through setbacks and perseverance, they work to build a lasting legacy. Inspired by the lives of Mary Church Terrell, Anna Julia Cooper, and Ida Gibbs Hunt, the novel explores a time of rapid change that brings resistance and violence, while holding to the belief that hope continues to rise. Vanessa Miller is a USA Today bestselling author with more than 50 books that center redemption, resilience, and faith, often highlighting strong Black women in pivotal moments of history. Her novel The American Queen has been featured in roundups by GMA, the Washington Post, and Essence.

Page 158 Books

Kick Kancer - Community Block Party

The fourth annual Kick Kancer community block party brings neighbors together to shine a light on pediatric cancer and celebrate the resilience of children and families facing it. Organized by Surrounded By Love, the free gathering welcomes all ages for an afternoon of connection, encouragement, and fun at Durham Central Park. Expect upbeat music from a live DJ with additional entertainment, a variety of food trucks, local makers and vendors, and games and activities for kids and adults. Community partners will share helpful information and services, and the day centers on hope as everyone rallies to kick cancer to the curb. Surrounded By Love was created by Ebony Jones after her daughter Mackenzie’s experience with childhood cancer. The organization offers emotional care, advocacy around self care, financial help, and practical resources. Contributions raised through the event support programs such as Love Bags, groceries, household essentials, assistance with utilities, gas cards, meals, and other services that ease everyday burdens for families in need.

Beginners Wheel Throwing

A friendly introduction to the pottery wheel led by instructor Steffen, this single-session class covers the essentials for first-time throwers. Learn how to center clay, pull up the walls, operate the wheel safely, and handle cleanup. No prior experience is needed, and participants should be ready to get a little muddy and enjoy the process. After creating your piece, it will move through the bisque firing stage. You will receive an email when it is ready so you can return to apply glaze at no additional charge. From making to completion typically takes about three to four weeks, and finished work should be picked up within 90 days of the notification. The class includes guided instruction, all necessary materials and equipment, and kiln firing for one completed item. It also fulfills the training required for Makery members who wish to use the wheel independently during open studio hours and serves as the prerequisite for the six week Intro to the Wheel workshop. Designed for ages eight and up. Tickets purchased for children seven or younger are nonrefundable, and those children cannot attend.

Woodworking Class Ages 5 & Up

Give kids ages 5 and up a hands-on introduction to woodworking at Mini Acres Farm. This one and a half hour class offers real world experience with guidance from experienced contractors. Participants learn the basics of using hand tools and essential safety practices, then build a wooden project to take home. All tools and materials are provided, and each child receives a snack and a drink. The class is taught in English, and parents are welcome to assist if they wish. This is the second offering of this woodworking class. The cost is $60 per child, with a sibling discount available for families enrolling more than one child. For questions or to register, email oldecabinconstruction@gmail.com.

Mini Acres Farm

Raleigh Twilight Market

Presented by The MAKRS Society, this evening market at Smoky Hollow showcases local vendors with a live DJ, plus food and beverages from Smoky Hollow. It offers a lively night market atmosphere that celebrates community makers and music. The organizers are accepting vendor applications.

Smoky Hollow

Summerween

A playful mashup of summertime fun and Halloween flair brings costumes, live music, a photo booth, tarot readings, face painting, a glitter bar, a costume contest, and more. A candy bar will satisfy sweet cravings ahead of the fall holiday, with a couple of extra surprises planned to keep things lively. Legacy Bleu Events focuses on creating spaces where adults can make lasting connections, find new friends, and build community, so there will be dedicated areas for conversation along with optional games designed to spark introductions, all set against spooky summer vibes.

Motorco

The Gramercy Restaurant & Lounge

The Gramercy Restaurant & Lounge

PLUS Dueling Pianos returns to Wake Forest with The Road Show, bringing a lively, interactive evening of all-request music, big singalongs, and quick-witted comedy. The audience helps shape the setlist and becomes part of the performance, creating high-energy moments from start to finish. Expect upbeat entertainment, plenty of crowd participation, and food and drinks to enjoy throughout. Tickets are limited, and the previous show sold out.

Knockdown Shack

Knockdown Shack brings its three-piece, keyboard-focused jam sound to the Saturday Music on Mangum Series at Durham Beer Garden. The set blends original songs with a few covers, driven by improvisation, deep grooves, and exploratory moments. Every show takes a different path, with spontaneous jams, cosmic vibes, and plenty of smiles.

Durham Beer Garden

Kate McGarry & Keith Ganz Quartet

Kate McGarry and Keith Ganz bring their long partnership to a quartet with Paul Creel on bass and Steve Coffman on drums. For 18 years they have recorded seven acclaimed albums and received three Grammy nominations. After years on the New York City jazz scene, they now make their home in Durham, North Carolina. Their latest release, What to Wear in the Dark, earned a four-star review from DownBeat magazine.

Royale Lynn

Royale Lynn performs at Kings in Raleigh, North Carolina.

Raleigh N.C.

NC2026 - 2026 North Carolina Speed Puzzling Championship

Celebrate competitive jigsaw puzzling at the North Carolina Speed Puzzling Championship, a full day of head-to-head solving at Fresh Collective NC. Test your skills in multiple formats, including solo, pairs, and four-person teams, with additional challenges such as the Pairs Relay and the Puzzle Pyramid. Expect a welcoming community atmosphere with opportunities to connect with fellow enthusiasts. Perks include the chance to puzzle alongside pros, free puzzle giveaways, and a swap table that is complimentary for registered participants and available to guests for a small fee. Top finishers in each division will take home prizes such as gift certificates or puzzle bundles, along with custom laser-etched wooden puzzle piece trophies. Space is limited. Ticket pricing for pairs is split between two participants and for teams is split among four, so each competitor must purchase their own ticket for paired and team events. Early bird savings are available, and larger purchases can qualify for a complimentary 2026 Championship T-shirt when at least $100 in contest tickets and the T-shirt are included in a single transaction using the code 26FREETEE. Registration is finalized once payment is complete.

The Fresh Collective

AHA Heartsaver Pediatric First Aid/CPR/AED

This AHA Heartsaver Pediatric First Aid CPR AED course equips preschool and childcare staff to act quickly and effectively when a child needs help. It meets North Carolina Division of Child Development and Early Education requirements for CPR and first aid training. Participants earn a two-year certification and receive the AHA student manual, certification card, and all training equipment. The cost is $85 per person, with a discount available for groups of three or more who obtain a code in advance.

Code Blue Resources

Panther Branch Community Center

Rogue Diecast Trade Show

A friendly marketplace for diecast enthusiasts to buy, sell, and trade with collectors from across North Carolina. Explore favorites from brands like Hot Wheels, Matchbox, JADA, Greenlight, Johnny Lightning, Auto World, M2 Machines, KAIDO, MINI GT, and Tomica, with many others welcome. Admission is $5 for adults, and children 12 and under are free. Vendor tables are $25, include two adult admissions, and require advance reservations. Complimentary refreshments are provided with paid entry. Four custom contests are planned, including the third annual Scooter Dyson Memorial Grocery Getter Special and a Christmas themed competition, with additional themes to be decided. The gathering keeps a collectors first spirit at its core.

String Break

Shop to a backdrop of Americana and pop cover tunes. Music accompanies your browsing with covers drawn from both genres.

Free Intro Class

Discover the fundamentals of boxing in a complimentary beginner session focused on core skills. The class lasts one hour. Bring a water bottle and wear comfortable workout clothes, and all other equipment will be provided.

Cultivate: The Ultimate Plant Social

Cultivate: The Ultimate Plant Social is a newly reimagined summer festival at The Garden Center that celebrates everything green and growing. Building on the Rare Houseplant Event, it expands into a boutique garden festival and community gathering for houseplant collectors, outdoor gardeners, and anyone who is plant curious. Explore specialty plant zones with curated, interactive areas featuring rare indoor greenery, terrariums, living art, native plants, bonsai, orchids, and fall edibles. Take part in the plant swap to trade healthy cuttings and plants with the local community. Enjoy hands-on workshops and activities for all ages, plus live music, a local food truck, and refreshing drinks from the Potting Shed bar while you shop and socialize. Admission is free. A full schedule, workshop registration details, and vendor announcements will be shared soon.

For Garden's Sake

NC State Fairgrounds - Exposition Center

Body Mind Spirit Celebration

The Body Mind Spirit Celebration brings a weekend of holistic discovery to the NC State Fairgrounds, highlighting natural health, personal growth, and metaphysics under this year’s theme, Towards Wonder. Explore more than 195 booths, connect with 60 psychics and healers, and enjoy entertainment from 80 performers. Admission covers the exhibit hall along with every presentation and performance. Special features include the Cosmic Post Office for messages to your future self, the Decision Dial, magical fairies, and aura photos. Weekend entry is priced at $14 in advance or $15 at the door, and parking is free.

Body Mind Spirit Expo

Color My Spirit Wellness will be at the Body Mind Spirit Expo in Raleigh at booths 204, 205 and 206, sharing services and goods that support mind, body and spirit. Offerings include energetic and intuitive chakra readings, sound healing, breathwork, Reiki, mediumship, fairy hair, wellness coaching, chakra-themed gift sets, and rock and crystal inspired items. Browse crystals, Gem Orbs bath bombs with a hidden treasure, Andaras, Hawaiian vibrational sprays from Shanti Kai, gemstone lamps, Shaman Dawn sprays, and other self care products. At the booths, meet practitioners and explore their specialties. Sarah Granahan provides wellness and intuitive coaching along with curated goods. Benina, Ann and Kristine offer sound healing and Reiki sessions. Samantha Heston adds fairy hair and guidance on the Akashic Records. Megan Carmona facilitates breathwork. Victoria Haffer presents starseed and galactic activations and shares harmonic approaches to communicating with animals. Attendees can enter a raffle for fun and enlightening giveaways. The team will also present three talks at the show, featuring animal communication with Victoria Haffer, the benefits of energy healing with Sarah Granahan, and an introduction to the Akashic Records with Samantha Heston. Admission is required for the expo, with tickets available either at the door or in advance.

The Exposition Center

Shove Island

Shove Island brings roller derby theatrics to Wheels Durham with a wild format where skaters team up, split apart, and take some spectacular spills. Home teams Box Turtle Bruisers and Dogwood Destroyers face off as alliances form, rivalries flare, and a trip to the penalty box feels almost certain. Adults pay $12 in advance or $15 at the door. Children ages 6 to 12 are $6. Raleigh Junior Roller skaters are $6. Children 5 and under are free. Some rink seating will be available, and guests may bring their own chairs. The parking lot fills up quickly, and additional parking is available at Merrick-Moore Park. A clear bag policy is in effect, and concessions will be available on site. A fan code of conduct applies.

Wheels Durham

Bull City Brews: Brightleaf

Discover Durham’s past one pint at a time on this walking-style experience around Brightleaf Square. Registration is required, and participants must be 21 and over. You’ll be able to buy drinks from local Durham breweries, and the route includes stops connected to the Bullpen Social District. Drinks are not included in the program.

Brightleaf Square

Fortnight Brewing Wake Forest

Grant Paxton

Enjoy a free evening of high-energy Grass Roots Americana with the Grant Paxton Band at Fortnight Brewing Company in Wake Forest. The band brings a lot of momentum and love for music to every show, so come ready for a fun night out.

Downtown Durham True Crime Walking Tour

Join a guided Durham True Crime Walking Tour hosted by a local historian. You’ll explore the darker side of Durham’s history, with stories ranging from mayoral candidates turned murder suspects to terrifying cult leaders and dramatic gangster tales. The tour runs for an hour, and tickets cost $15.

Lucky Strike Tower

Corey Holcomb

Catch Corey Holcomb live for a comedy show at Raleigh Improv. The show starts at 6:30 PM.

Simple Plan

Simple Plan is coming to Red Hat Amphitheater in Raleigh with Bowling For Soup and 3OH!3. The show starts at 7:00 PM, with ticket availability shown on Ticketmaster.

Mariachazo

Catch Mariachi Vargas De Tecalitlán live for a Mariachi concert featuring folk, Latin, and ranchera styles. The show is scheduled to start at 8:00 PM at the Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts in Raleigh.

Tween Moon

Centered on Moontime creativity, this gathering invites girls ages 9 to 15 to explore the power of their periods through a traditional rites of passage framework with Nana Shemora. Activities encourage connection with nature, as well as nurturing mind, body, and soul, fostering self-care and self-love during this coming-of-age phase. Each interactive class in the series begins with bellydance to set the tone for learning and expression.

Free Weekly Air Hockey Tournament

A weekly, free air hockey tournament takes place at Super Rad Retro Lounge. Players of every experience level are encouraged to take part, from curious newcomers to seasoned competitors. The focus is on upbeat matches, a welcoming community, and the thrill of walking away with brag-worthy wins. If you have never played, friendly guidance is available so you can learn the basics and get into the game.

Super Rad Retro Lounge

Durham Tech, 1637 E Lawson St, Durham, NC 27703-5023, United States

Herbal Tea & Cold Drinks at the Black Farmers Market

Explore herbal tea blends and chilled beverages at a booth within the Black Farmers Market. Offerings are created to support moments of rest, hydration, and everyday self-care, including tea blends made in small batches, bottled spring water, and sweet tea in cans, with unsweetened canned tea on the way. Samples are available so you can taste the blends before purchasing. The market moves between Raleigh and Durham during the season, giving visitors a chance to support local farmers and businesses and enjoy a cool drink while browsing.

Bedazzle Your Favorite Book Event!

Learn how to add sparkling rhinestone accents to a book that matters to you while chatting with fellow book lovers at Daughter's Coffee & Books. Bring a childhood favorite, a story you cannot put down, or one you have been meaning to start, or choose a book from the shop. All the rhinestone materials are included. You will leave with your newly decorated book plus a multicolored rhinestone kit and additional supplies to continue creating at home.

Daughters Coffee & Books

Sacred Source Holistic Marketplace

At Durham Central Park Pavilion, this open air marketplace brings together local practitioners, makers, and mindful vendors for a gathering centered on wellness, artistry, and connection. Explore crystals and other spiritual accessories, discover herbal supports and plant based skincare, sit for tarot readings and energy sessions, and find handcrafted jewelry along with other artisan pieces. Experience sound healing and drumming with opportunities to participate, and enjoy food and beverages that contribute to a welcoming community atmosphere. Guests can browse, receive services, meet new people, or simply take in the scene. The event is outdoors, family friendly, and community focused.

Triangle Aikido, 4603 Hillsborough Rd, Durham, NC, United States, North Carolina 27705

SYSTEMA Martial Arts: Free Trial Class for Beginners

This free trial class introduces Systema, a comprehensive approach to training body, mind, and spirit that blends elements of martial arts, yoga, massage, and meditation into practical skills. It builds instinctive self-protection while improving strength and flexibility, helping ease fear and stress along the way. Central to the method is learning to move with freedom and solid structure while keeping unnecessary tension low. Training follows a thoughtful, step by step progression that develops awareness, adaptability, and composure under pressure. The aim goes beyond techniques, emphasizing the ability to stay centered and responsive in unpredictable moments. Sessions vary from class to class and remain engaging. Participants work at a comfortable pace with an emphasis on quality of movement, efficiency, and understanding over time. Classes typically start with breathwork, movement, and conditioning rooted in Russian martial arts to release tension and build resilience. From there, practice often includes rolling, falling, ground work, and themed movement drills. NC Systema is an official Systema Vasiliev school, and instructors maintain yearly certification through the headquarters in Toronto.

Mystery Machine Live

Mystery Machine takes the stage at Saints and Scholars Pub with a live show that puts a gentler spin on rock and roll. The performance leans into an easygoing vibe with melodies that keep things light.

Saints and Scholars Pub

Jack Wilkins/Scott Sawyer Quartet

The Jack Wilkins and Scott Sawyer Quartet brings together saxophonist and composer Jack Wilkins with guitarist Scott Sawyer, joined by Grant Osborne on organ and Kobie Watkins on drums. Wilkins has released eight leader albums, including Acadian Rhythms, Saxophone Legacy, The Banff Project, The Blue and Green Project, and The Rundle Sessions. His work is also featured with Chuck Owen and the Jazz Surge, notably on Whispers on the Wind, which earned him recognition as a Grammy finalist as a performer, and as the saxophone soloist on River Runs: A Concerto for Jazz Guitar, Saxophone and Orchestra.

Rhythm and Roots: Shekere + Afro-Cuban Dance

A monthly Third Sunday Rhythm and Roots workshop hosted by Living Arts Collective with Africa Unplugged and the AfroCuban Conservatory features a shekere class led by Atiba Rorie and an Afro-Cuban dance session with Vladimir Espinosa and Vilmedis Cobas Silot accompanied by live drumming. Held at the collective’s downtown Durham location, the program welcomes participants of all ages and all experience levels. You may take either workshop or both. Each month highlights a different theme, style, or movement element rooted in Afro-Cuban cultural and historical traditions. Cost is $20 for one workshop or $30 for both. Atiba Rorie is the founder of the international multi-genre band Africa Unplugged and has performed widely, including at Dance Africa in New York, TEDx Greensboro, National Black Arts Festival, Black Dance USA, and two Presidential Inauguration celebrations. Vladimir Espinosa, a musician, actor, and choreographer from Havana, has worked with Teatro Caribeno and Teatro Orile in Cuba, Compania National De Danza and Rojo Oscuro in Ecuador, and has served as a teacher and accompanist with the American Dance Festival in Durham since 2005. Vilmedis Cobas Silot is a dancer, award-winning choreographer, and educator whose credits include principal interpretive roles with the National Dance Company of Ecuador and the Ecuadorian Chamber Ballet, along with work with Subject to Change, Retazo Theater Dance Company, and Theatre of Caribbean Dance Company in Cuba.

Living Arts Collective

Akashic Records Workshop/Class

Explore the Akashic Records in a workshop led by Joan Varini. Learn what the Records are, practice methods for accessing them with clarity, and develop intuitive listening for more accurate insights. Guidance includes how to open and close a session with care so the process feels supported and safe. The experience concludes with a collective reading conducted by Joan. The fee is $35. Joan brings nearly two decades of teaching experience in transformational modalities, and the workshop welcomes participants who arrive with openness and curiosity.

Raleigh True Crime Tour

Raleigh, also known as the Oak City, is home to real stories of crime and intrigue. This true crime tour shares chilling chapters from the city's past, including accounts of one of North Carolina's most notorious serial killers, a brazen and violent Russian oligarch, and a local figure often compared to Jack the Ripper. It centers on true tales from the darker side of Raleigh history.

Downtown Raleigh

Sunday Salsa Social

A long-running Sunday social now in its 18th year features a beginner-friendly salsa lesson followed by an evening of open dancing. The music mix typically includes roughly 45 percent salsa, about 40 to 45 percent bachata, and a few selections of cha cha, kizomba, merengue, and cumbia. Admission is $10, with a $8 rate for active military and students who present ID. Children 17 and under attend free with an accompanying adult, or $5 if attending on their own. Most DJs can accept Venmo and credit cards, though bringing cash is recommended and card payments may include an additional fee. The usual DJ rotation is DJ Abuelo Salsero Jack Wolf on first Sundays, DJ Salsa Mike Michael Delucia on second Sundays, DJ Pedro Paz on third Sundays, DJ Monte Alban Eliuth Cruz Lopez on fourth Sundays, and a guest DJ when there is a fifth Sunday, with lineups subject to change. New visitors to Triangle Dance Studio should note there is no exterior sign. The building appears as a two story cream colored house and sits next to Research Triangle Dental, which has a prominent sign. For questions, contact Jack Wolf at jackhwolf49@gmail.com or by phone at 919-245-8393 or 743-208-5497.

Triangle Dance Studios

EMM and more

EMM brings The Dumb Tour to Kings, showcasing music from the new album Black Diamond alongside favorites from her catalog. Her work champions unapologetic female strength, backed by classically trained musicianship, a four octave vocal range, and credits as an award-winning pianist, guitarist, songwriter, and producer. The bill also features Aphasia Chancellor, blending old-school and new-school vibes, and Koee of Kanekalon, a North Carolina drag artist. Admission is $25 in advance and $30 the day of the show.

Kings

Outdoor Recreation

Umstead Hiking Group

Experience a friendly group hike at Umstead Park with a community that regularly heads out in the mornings. Most outings are on Fridays and Sundays, though the schedule can shift with the season, weather, and hike leader availability. Meeting spots and route choices vary and are shared in the group’s WhatsApp chat. Expect roughly four miles at a comfortable pace, usually wrapped up in under two hours. Participants can move at their own speed, and anyone wanting a shorter trek can turn back early. For details or to propose a route, send a WhatsApp message to John Zeiger at 919/522-4212 or contact Susan Nicholas. Coordinator: John Zeiger, johnz@outdoorz.net.

Umstead Park

Downtown Raleigh Alliance

All Things Groovy Hippie Fest

Get groovy in downtown Raleigh at the ‘All Things Groovy’ Hippie Fest. Expect vintage vibes, great eats and frozen treats, tie-dye fun, live music, and a lineup of cool small businesses to shop from. It’s a fun outdoor festival day designed for the whole family.

Grand Opening with Pawfect

Celebrate the opening weekend of a new pet store with a meet and greet featuring adoptable dogs from Pawfect Match. Visitors can spend time with the pups and see if one could be the right fit for their home.

Pet Supplies Plus

All Things Groovy Hippie Fest

Peace, love, and good vibes take over Moore Square for the third annual All Things Groovy Hippie Fest. This free, all-ages celebration brings together local makers, artists, and vintage-inspired vendors, plus a vintage car show and bubbles floating through the park. Enjoy delicious local food trucks and a full day of live music, all set in a laid-back, retro atmosphere.

Moore Square

Brunch & Back to School Photos

Enjoy brunch at Crooked Hammock Brewery - Raleigh, then step in front of the camera for back-to-school portraits with a nostalgic 1980s school vibe, provided by Assorted Poppies. Crooked Hammock is donating 10 percent of brunch sales. Families and friends are welcome, and well-behaved animals can join the fun too.

Crooked Hammock Brewery

QiGong Flow with LeAnna Marie

Settle into a gentle qigong session led by LeAnna Marie that emphasizes slow, grounded movement, mindful breathing, and focused awareness to support balance, vitality, and a calmer mind. The pace is unhurried so there is time to listen inward, release tension, and reconnect with your body. Expect steady sequences, breath-centered guidance, quiet moments for integration, and a welcoming space without judgment. No experience is required. Ages 15 and up are welcome, and anyone under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Wear comfortable clothing and, if desired, bring water in a sealable, non-breakable bottle. The class is designed to help you slow down, feel more at ease, and deepen your connection with yourself. Price is $20. To minimize distractions, please leave cell phones and smart watches in your vehicle or secure them in one of the complimentary lockers during class.

Zinc House Winery & Brewery

Yoga

Unroll your mat for an outdoor Flow & Grow yoga session at Zinc House Winery & Brewery, set amid 87 acres with vineyards, scenic walking trails, rooftop decks, and event spaces. This beginner-friendly class moves with the breath and intention, introducing gentle chaturangas at a slightly quicker pace with options for every level. The practice is guided by Sharon MacGregor, founder of Serenity Farm Yoga Sanctuary and the 26-acre Serenity Farm retreat center, who at times welcomes guest teachers from the local yoga community to create a varied experience. Expect a welcoming environment that supports both body and spirit. Zinc House sits about 3 miles from Serenity Farm, creating a natural link between movement on the mat and mindfulness beyond the mat. After class, linger to browse Tip-Z Boutique, enjoy gourmet coffee or a bite from a food truck, sip something bubbly or another refreshing drink, play cornhole, and relax with vineyard views while connecting with others. For comfort, consider bringing a yoga mat, comfortable clothing, water, an optional eye cover, and a towel or cushion to support the knees. The class takes place outdoors in front of the Carriage House, providing a serene backdrop for practice and connection.

Summer Patchwork Market

The Summer Patchwork Market brings a carefully selected lineup of 60 regional artists and small businesses to the Durham Armory. This indoor, free admission event features handmade goods and original art alongside jewelry, ceramics, clothing, home decor, vintage selections, and other one of a kind finds.

Durham Armory

Art of Cool Presents The Frequency Series Featuring Jonathan Butler & Najee with Aaron McCoy

An artist unveils a special project overflowing with substance, brimming with joy, and alive with fresh inspiration. It is the rare kind of work that resists any single title to capture it fully, inviting the audience to discover its feeling and meaning as the experience unfolds.

Koka Booth Amphitheatre

The Gramercy Restaurant & Lounge

Wake Forest

Head to PLUS Dueling Pianos for an interactive night of high-energy live music, comedy, and nonstop singalongs. You can help choose what gets played and become part of the show, with great food and drinks available all evening. Tickets are limited and previously sold out, so grab yours early.

AUG17

Margs & Memoirs August Meeting

Gather at Los Tres in Rolesville for a relaxed discussion of Transcendent by Laverne Cox. This book club meets on an every other third Monday schedule. To get a discounted copy through Page 158 Books, place the order on their website, select Pay at Store at checkout, and write “Winebrary Book Clubs book” in the order comments. The discount will be applied when the book is picked up.

Los Tres Magueyes

AUG17

Horse Riding Summer Camp at MacNair's Country Acres, Raleigh, NC

A summer horseback riding camp in Raleigh, NC welcomes participants ages 6 to 14 for a balanced mix of riding and horse care. Camp weeks follow Wake County Schools’ Traditional Calendar for summer break. Both full-day and half-day sessions are available, with half-day suggested for ages 6 and 7. Riders are grouped by experience level and head to the saddle once each day. No prior experience is required, and instruction centers on essential horsemanship, including grooming, tacking, post-ride care, and beginner riding skills. Lessons take place in the ring as well as on the trail. When not riding, campers can cool off in an on-site pool with a certified lifeguard, deepen their horsemanship knowledge, and take part in crafts and games.

MacNair's Country Acres

AUG18

Ella Mai

Ella Mai is coming to the Red Hat Amphitheater in Raleigh, with Ama and Girlfriend joining as special guests. The show starts at 7:30 PM.

AUG19

Northeast Regional Library

Wed. Cookbook Club: Tasting History by Max Miller

Join the community for a monthly, librarian-led discussion of the book Tasting History by Max Miller. Registration is required, and print copies of the book are available at Northeast Regional Library. You’re welcome to bring a recipe from the book to share, bring photos of a cooked recipe from the book, or simply come enjoy the conversation.

AUG20

Open Mic Night

Bud's Tavern hosts an open microphone evening for performers to showcase their talents in a relaxed, welcoming setting.

Bud's Tavern

AUG20

hOMe Yoga Studio & The Winebrary

Fantasy Book Club August Meeting- ‘In The Veins Of The Drowning’

The Fantasy Book Club gathers to discuss the August selection, ‘In The Veins Of The Drowning’ by Kalie Cassidy. Copies are available at a discount from Page 158 Books by ordering through the store’s website, choosing the pay in store option at checkout, and adding a note that the order is for the Winebrary book club. The discount will be applied when the book is picked up. This group meets on the third Thursday of each month. Please note that doors stay locked beforehand while yoga is in session, and outside beverages are not permitted.

AUG20

Wilderado

Wilderado, along with Sam Burchfield, is performing at Bowstring Pizza and Brewyard. The show is scheduled for Thursday evening.

Bowstring Brewyard

Back To School Bash

This free, family friendly event at KidsStreet Urgent Care Clinic celebrates the start of a new school year. Attendees can receive one of 300 backpacks filled with school supplies, distributed in order of arrival while supplies last. Giveaways include an Apple Watch, tablets, gift cards, and a Nintendo Switch Lite. Highlights include a bounce house, a DJ with a foam party, face painting, and a variety of games and activities, with more fun planned. From kindergarten beginners to high school students, everyone can look forward to a spirited kickoff supported by KidsStreet’s focus on care and community.

KidsStreet Urgent Care

Durham Foodie Fare

Presented by The MAKRS Society, this foodie and art market highlights Durham’s diverse culinary and creative community at Durham Central Park. Part of a monthly series, it gathers food trucks, food vendors, and artists for an evening of flavors and handmade finds. Explore tasty options, browse unique works, and grab a drink from The Glass Jug next door. It is a welcoming setting to enjoy good food, discover local creativity, and spend time with friends and family.

Whisker Junction Book Club at Keith's Store

Whisker Junction Book Club at Keith’s Store is a monthly gathering in a friendly setting where readers talk about favorite books, exchange insights, and connect with other book lovers.

Friday Night Fury

Bring your team for a high-energy 5v5 soccer tournament at MWC Sports Complex. The action takes place indoors, so the games go on rain or shine. Age divisions include U10, U12, and U15. Expect a lively atmosphere with music, fast-paced play, and awards for top teams. Entry is $7 per player or $35 per team.

ANTHONY GREEN w/ Maps & Atlases / Keith Goodwin at Motorco Music Hall

Presented by andmoreagain, Anthony Green brings his This Tour Won't Save You tour to Motorco Music Hall in Durham, joined by Maps & Atlases and Keith Goodwin. Green is known for leading Circa Survive and for his early role as the singer of Saosin, and he has built a substantial solo catalog with releases like Avalon, Beautiful Things, Pixie Queen, and Boom. Done. He is also part of The Sound of Animals Fighting and L.S. Dunes, a project that includes members of My Chemical Romance, Coheed and Cambria, and Thursday. With more than twenty years of music behind him, he remains a standout voice in alternative music. Tickets are $30 in advance and $35 on the day of the show.

Motorco

Trinity United Methodist Church

The Beatles Candlelight Experience In Durham, NC - Friday, August 21st

Trinity United Methodist Church provides the setting for a candlelit tribute to The Beatles from Lumos, performed by a string trio. The program features classical renditions of songs such as Here Comes the Sun, Yesterday, Eleanor Rigby, Let It Be, Blackbird, Penny Lane, and Hey Jude. Seating is first come, first served within allocated tiered zones, including Platinum, Gold, Silver, and Bronze. The venue is wheelchair accessible, though front row access is not guaranteed. This event is recommended for ages eight and up. Lumos donates to a different charity each month. Presented in two sittings, this candlelit concert highlights an intimate ambiance and string arrangements of Beatles music.

Durham Performing Arts Center

HASAN HATES RONNY | RONNY HATES HASAN

At DPAC, comedians Hasan Minhaj and Ronny Chieng stage a combative comedy showdown that rejects polite dialogue in favor of open rivalry. Presented as a one-night face-off in each city, they share the stage at the same time to air grievances about America, each other, and even their family histories, using stand-up and debate-style exchanges. Think of a presidential town hall gone off the rails, with a format framed as a debate to the death. They plan to spar over topics such as presidents, war, the economy, immigration, infrastructure, food, dating, family values, and even the idea of a race war. The tone steers away from reconciliation and embraces pettiness, turning their mutual disdain into an onstage clash.

An Evening with Jaimee Harris and Wes Collins

Texas native Jaimee Harris teams up with North Carolina songwriter Wes Collins on the Folk’N Friends Tour for a warm, back-and-forth exchange of songs and stories shaped by a decade of friendship. Harris brings vivid, emotionally honest portraits of small-town life, while Collins contributes imaginative, memorable writing with intricate fingerpicking. Together they create an intimate evening centered on heartfelt storytelling and musical connection. Harris’s second album, Boomerang Town, delves into family ties, addiction, grief, and the search for hope and faith, tracing how love and loss intersect. Collins is known for haunting melodies, sharp wit, and a literary sensibility, distinctions reflected in honors such as the Grassy Hills New Folk Competition and a North Carolina Arts Council Songwriting Fellowship, along with finalist recognitions in The Telluride Troubadour Contest, The Songwriter’s Serenade Competition, and The Wildflower Performing Songwriter Contest. A former librarian and self-described record devotee, he can even mimic the quirky cadence of vintage computer voice simulations.

Beginners Wheel Throwing Class: First Spin

Curious about pottery wheels? This one-time beginner intro class teaches you the fundamentals of wheel throwing, including how to center clay, pull walls, and safely operate and clean up the wheel. It’s designed for first-timers with no prior experience needed, and it’s for ages 8 and up. After you make your piece, bisque firing is handled, and you’ll be notified by email once it’s ready for the glaze step at no extra cost. The full process typically takes about 3 to 4 weeks, and finished pieces are requested to be picked up within 90 days of the email notification.

ANTHONY GREEN : This Tour Won't Save You

Presented by andmoreagain, Anthony Green brings This Tour Won't Save You to Motorco Music Hall in Durham, NC, joined by Maps & Atlases and Keith Goodwin. Tickets are $30 in advance and $35 on the day of the show.

Motorco Music Hall

ZincHouse Winery & Brewery

The Art of Wine: A Tasting Experience

Enjoy an upscale wine tasting and educational experience hosted by ZincHouse’s winemakers and wine team. You’ll sample five of their wine offerings during a guided session, and all tasting bottles are 10% off the night of the event. Reservations are required, and participants must be 21+.

Durham Performing Arts Center

Hasan Hates Ronny: Ronny Chieng & Hasan Minhaj

Head to DPAC for a comedy show featuring Hasan Minhaj, presented as part of the Hasan Hates Ronny: Ronny Chieng & Hasan Minhaj lineup. The performance is scheduled for 7:00 PM local venue time.

ZOSO - The Ultimate Led Zeppelin Experience

Catch Zoso, billed as the ultimate Led Zeppelin experience, delivering high-energy musicianship and a spot-on stage presence that draws in Zeppelin fans. The show runs about 3 hours and is held in person rain or shine. No refunds are offered.

Bowstring Brewyard

Jordan Davis

Catch Jordan Davis live at Red Hat Amphitheater. The show kicks off at 8:00 PM.

Amazing Grace Handcrafted Wooden Door Hanger Workshop

At MK Creative Arts Studio in Historic Downtown Wake Forest beside Pelican’s Snoballs, this hands-on workshop invites ages 10 to 110 to craft an 18-inch, handcrafted raised-wood “Amazing Grace” door hanger. The featured design comes from a professional artisan and is offered exclusively in North Carolina through Art & Soul Sisters Studio, LLC. Participants receive the 18-inch door hanger, paints and brushes, a selection of embellishments including mini seashells, sea glass, faux florals, and greenery, bow-making supplies, and step-by-step instruction. Attendees may bring a favorite Bible verse to decoupage, as well as any personal embellishments, and outside food and drinks are allowed. No prior experience is required, and help is available throughout. The price is $55 per person. All sales are final, with optional ticket insurance. Seating is limited, and everyone leaves with a finished piece ready to display.

MK Creative Arts Studio

Pagan Death Cafe with Via Textricis

Via Textricis hosts Mortali-Tea, a Death Cafe centered on Pagan perspectives. Originating in the UK in 2011, the Death Cafe movement now includes nearly 19,000 gatherings across 91 countries, all intended to make room for open conversations about death. This monthly gathering offers wide ranging discussion of end of life topics shaped by Pagan needs. General Death Cafes meet regularly in Raleigh and Hillsborough, and a Queer Death Cafe convenes at Arcana. This event was created to provide a dedicated space for the Pagan community, and it takes place on the fourth Saturday each month.

Panera Bread

EmergeOrtho Durham Orthopedic Clinic

Bull City Street Rod Association Saturday Night Cruise-In

Settle in for a summer car cruise-in featuring a spacious, shaded parking area and plenty of upbeat music. A fifty-fifty is part of the fun, and there is a Chick-fil-A conveniently located across the street.

Summer Concerts in the Park

Durham Parks and Recreation’s Summer Concerts in the Park brings a free and family friendly concert to Forest Hills Park featuring Wilson Springs Hotel with a blend of folk, rock and roll, and country. The series highlights local musicians, an easygoing atmosphere, and a variety of food trucks. Attendees can bring a blanket or chair and settle in on the lawn. Alcohol and smoking are not permitted. The concert will be held regardless of weather.

Forest Hills Park

Nitro Circus 2.0 – Durham, NC

Nitro Circus Live returns with a supersized production that pushes the limits of action sports. Top athletes from FMX, BMX, scooter and more send cutting edge stunts and World First tricks from the Giganta Ramp and the Next Level kickers. With more than 4 million tickets sold around the world, Nitro Circus stands at the pinnacle of action sports entertainment. This edition showcases brand new record breakers. Adam Jones, the most decorated rider in Freestyle Motocross history, attempts a 75 foot backflip straight through a blazing 35 foot wall of fire as a high octane nod to Evel Knievel. Ryan Bean delivers a classic circus style high dive, dropping 40 feet from the Giganta Ramp into a 3.5 foot pool. Cody Matechuk brings snowmobile chaos without snow, blasting off the Levi Ramp to throw massive backflip variations in any conditions. Fan favorite contraptions return as the flying couch, a kayak, and a wheeled horse take flight with fresh surprises that blend comedy with big air. Behind the scenes access is available with optional add ons. The pre show experience includes early entry, priority merchandise shopping, and on field access to watch practice and interact with athletes. The combined pre show and post show VIP option adds the post show awards ceremony plus time with athletes for photos, autographs, and exclusive stories. These upgrades are sold separately and require an event ticket. Rain or shine. All sales are final. If weather leads to a postponement, original tickets remain valid for the rescheduled date. If the event is canceled and not rescheduled, ticket holders are eligible for a refund.

🎤🛼 MICHAEL JACKSON TRIBUTE SKATE 👑✨

A high-energy roller skating night returns with nonstop Michael Jackson hits alongside favorite pop classics. Celebrate the King of Pop’s birthday on wheels while you dance, sing along, and glide to music that shaped generations. MJ-inspired outfits are encouraged, whether that means a single glove, a fedora, or just your best moves. Expect continuous tunes, plenty of photo-ready moments, and a welcoming vibe for beginners and experienced skaters alike. Admission is $13 and skate rental is $6. Groups can reserve in advance by calling 919-598-1944.

Wheels Durham

Nitro Circus 2.0 at the DBAP!

Thrill Sports, P1 Live, and RNC Entertainment bring the Nitro Circus 2.0 Tour, presented by Ram Trucks, to Durham Bulls Athletic Park. The refreshed live production showcases elite action sports athletes from FMX, BMX, skate, and scooter in an adrenaline-charged spectacle for all ages. This edition debuts bold new moments. Adam Jones, the most decorated freestyle motocross rider, will try a 75-foot backflip while breaking through a 35-foot wall of fire. Ryan Bean lines up a high dive from the 40-foot Giganta ramp into just three and a half feet of water. Cody Matechuk returns on a snowmobile to launch from the Next Gen Ramp, engineered for bigger airtime and multi-rotation backflip variations. The contraptions segment makes a comeback too, featuring a flying couch, a kayak, a horse, and fresh surprises. Expect a mix of record-setting attempts, eye-popping spills, playful antics, and behind-the-scenes stories from the riders. With more than four million tickets sold to date, Nitro Circus stands as a defining force in action sports entertainment.

8-Track Minds at The Blue Note Grill!

Boogie at The Blue Note Grill and enjoy an upbeat, dance-friendly vibe.

The Blue Note Grill

RAD Days of Summer VI presented by TriangleRAD

TriangleRAD brings back RAD Days of Summer VI, a laid back '80s and '90s car show and meet for enthusiasts of vehicles from 1980 through 1999, plus continuation models that carried their '90s design into later years. Attendance is free and there is no vehicle registration. Ignore any messages that claim otherwise and report them as scams. Bring out survivors and drivers of all conditions. Faded paint, cracked dashboards, and mismatched panels are welcome. Cars with popup headlights will find a marked Popup Zone, and right hand drive imports like kei trucks and Skylines can head to the RHD Zone. The vibe extends beyond the parking lot, so vintage outfits and other nostalgic items are encouraged for extra Rad cred. Lighthearted awards will be handed out, including raddest '80s car, raddest '90s car, raddest truck or van, raddest JDM import, raddest accessory or graphics, raddest outfit, best patina, and The Regular Prize. The Regular Prize celebrates a wonderfully ordinary, once common, disposable model from the era that has somehow survived close to stock form. Judging and the announcement of winners will take place during the event, and you must be present to win. Decisions are at the discretion of the organizers. For safety and to keep the venue happy, there is zero tolerance for burnouts, excessive revving, or other behavior that could shut things down. Spectators arriving in non '80s or '90s cars are asked to park outside the show area.

Target

Durham Performing Arts Center

The Mountain Goats

The Mountain Goats take the stage at DPAC. Fronted by singer John Darnielle, the lineup features drummer Jon Wurster and multi-instrumentalist Matt Douglas, who contributes guitars, horns, horn arrangements, and keys. An album the band recorded at Sear Sound in Manhattan includes bassist Rob Jost, group vocals by Catherine Russsell, Jamie Leonhart, and Carolyn Leonhart, and additional layers from Janis Siegal of the Manhattan Transfer on the track Hidden Majesty of Later Venom Albums. Matt Nathanson adds vocals to Candlebox, and Mikaela Davis brings harp to Going to Fennario.

Wake Forest Renaissance Centre

Kill the Music

Experience Kill the Music, an interactive murder mystery from It’s A Mystery that unfolds at the reunion concert of a one-hit-wonder all-girl group. Just as a brand-new track is set to premiere, danger threatens the celebration and a band member could be silenced for good. Audience members become part of the action, teaming up at their tables to collect clues, compare theories, and work toward solving the case. Sweet treats keep the investigation going. One show serves coffee with brunch pastries and fruit, while the other pairs coffee with desserts. A cash bar with beer, wine, and bubbly is available at both, and a full meal is not included.

Annual "What Up Doe" Picnic

Plans are in the works for a relaxed gathering to kick off football season. The date is tentative while park results are pending. Meat will be provided, and bringing a side dish is optional.

Whipporwill Park

Fortnight Brewing Wake Forest

Mike Casey

Enjoy an evening of saxophone-focused instrumental music with recording artist, producer, and composer Mike Casey. The concert runs from 6 to 9 PM at Fortnight Brewing Company in Wake Forest, and admission is free.

Coastal Credit Union Music Park

Jack Johnson

Catch a live show by Jack Johnson, with Lake Street Dive also on the bill. The concert takes place at Coastal Credit Union Music Park at Walnut Creek in Raleigh. Showtime is 7:30 PM local venue time.

Candlelight: Neo-Soul Favorites ft. Songs by Prince, Childish Gambino, & More

Enjoy a Candlelight tribute concert featuring neo-soul favorites, with string quartet performances of songs inspired by artists like Prince, Childish Gambino, and more. The show runs about 60 minutes, with doors opening 60 minutes before and closing 5 minutes before the start. Assigned seating is handled on a first-come, first-served basis within each zone. This event is for ages 8 and up, and guests under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. The venue is ADA compliant.

The Rialto

The Wake Forest Renaissance Centre For the Arts

Mystery Theater: Kill the Music

Kill the Music delivers an interactive murder mystery from It’s A Mystery, set at the reunion concert of a one-hit wonder. Attendees become part of the action as clues surface and suspects emerge. It is a lively whodunit focused on cracking the case and revealing who is responsible.

PJ Library

Meet up with your PJ Library friends at Rolesville Main Street Park for a morning of outdoor fun. We’ll hang out on the playground and connect with other families during the event.

Main Street Park

Durham Geek and Grub Market (Wizard Edition)

Experience a wizard-themed edition of the Geek and Grub Market at the Durham Armory, a free market featuring more than 40 geeky vendors, food trucks, special guests, and fun activities. Begin at the main entrance check-in desk, where young fans can receive a complimentary goodie or learn how to join the free scavenger hunt. Visit the indoor Geek Tavern for non-alcoholic themed beverages. The scavenger hunt invites participants to find eight Wizard Gambits, then return to the HQ desk to claim a prize. The event schedule will be announced soon. Street parking and nearby garages are available, with street parking free on weekends. The venue is fully accessible, and only service dogs may attend. A vendor list and site map will be available online ahead of time, and prospective vendors can apply through the event website.

Durham Armory

White Street Brewing Company

August 23

Spend a relaxed Sunday afternoon at White Street Brewing with an opportunity to play mahjong while enjoying wine, ciders, and other sips. It’s set up for friendly competition and good vibes, with mats, tiles, racks, and snacks provided for the event. Guests just need to bring their NMJL Card and a friend or two. There’s also a one-drink minimum (they offer non-alcoholic options).

Billy Idol

Billy Idol is hitting the stage with special guest DEVO at Coastal Credit Union Music Park at Walnut Creek. The show starts at 7:30 PM.

AUG24

North Carolina Museum of Art

Nature Play Day at NCMA

Enjoy hands-on nature play at the North Carolina Museum of Art, with activities set up near the Welcome Center. A Prairie Ridge play facilitator will support open-ended exploration using a rotating mix of materials that might include fort-building gear, puppets and costumes, bubbles, paint, and more. This is a free, drop-in experience held entirely outdoors, so dress for the weather and expect some mess. Designed for children ages 7 and younger, and everyone is welcome. Staff and supplies are available throughout the program.

AUG25

Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers

Bingo Night at Freddy's!

A family friendly bingo night at Freddy’s features multiple rounds of play and the chance to win a prize.

AUG25

Pack 141 Rocket Recruitment Event

Pack 141 hosts a Cub Scout Rocket Recruitment event at Mill Bridge Nature Park. This is an open invitation to explore Cub Scouting with the pack and learn more about getting started.

Mill Bridge Nature Park

AUG25

Durham Bulls vs Norfolk Tides | Homestand #12

Durham Bulls take on the Norfolk Tides in Homestand #12 at Durham Bulls Athletic Park. This is the second-to-last chance to see the 2026 Durham Bulls at home. The homestand features themed promotions that include Tendies & Tallboys, Dollar Dogs, Friday Night Fireworks, State Fair Night, Saturday Night Fireworks, Champ the Bat Dog, and TruckFest.

AUG26

Wake Forest Community Library

Wake Forest Writers’ Group

Join the Wake Forest Writers’ Group for a friendly, welcoming workshop focused on the craft of storytelling. You’ll share and get feedback on your writing, and participate in writing prompts designed to spark creativity. This group is for ages 17 and up and meets on the last Wednesday of every month.

AUG27

Paint Your Pet at Artisan Beer & Cheese!

Create a custom portrait of your beloved companion in a friendly Paint Your Pet class that welcomes every kind of animal, from fluffy friends to turtles and birds. These personalized canvases also make heartfelt gifts for the pet lovers in your life. Your ticket includes step by step instruction from artist Victoria Lowry, an 11x14 canvas prepared with a guide based on a photo of your pet, and all supplies including acrylic paints, brushes, a palette, an easel, and an apron. Please email a clear reference photo to victorialowryart@gmail.com so your canvas guide can be prepared in advance. Food and drinks are not included. Plan to arrive a little early to purchase beverages before class begins, and note that outside food is not permitted.

AUG27

Eslabon Armado

Eslabon Armado is bringing their regional Mexican music to The Ritz in Raleigh for a live show. Tickets are available through Ticketmaster. Doors and exact set details aren’t provided here, but the performance is scheduled to start in the evening.

The Ritz

Ground Into Your True Self Using Human Design and Somatic Skills with Evann Lavender

Explore your design and settle into your body in a two hour class with Evann Lavender. Each participant receives an individualized Human Design Bodygraph along with guidance on core elements such as type, strategy, and authority. This insight supports alignment with your natural tendencies so decision making feels clearer, stress and emotions are easier to navigate, and a grounded sense of self can emerge. The session then moves into somatic practices you can weave into daily life to encourage relaxation and embodiment, with choices informed by your unique design. This offering is for adults 18 and older. Attendees should be ready to sit quietly, focus on bodily sensations, and engage in self reflection, and it is not suitable for anyone experiencing an active mental or physical health crisis. Wear comfortable clothing, and you may bring a sealed bottle of water. The goal is to deepen self understanding and learn somatic tools tailored to your Human Design. The fee is $80. Please keep cell phones and smartwatches in your vehicle or place them in a complimentary locker for the duration of the class.

Caleb Caudle and the Sweet Critters

Caleb Caudle & the Sweet Critters take the stage at The Wake Forest Listening Room for an evening with a songwriter whose career has grown steadily through persistence and miles on the road. From early days on small stages in the North Carolina foothills he calls home, his journey has carried him all the way to standing in the Grand Ole Opry circle. He steps into a new chapter as he and his wife anticipate their first child, a life change that adds fresh depth to the stories he tells in song. His latest album, Heavy Thrill, marks the first time he produced his own record, tracked at Cash Cabin in Hendersonville, Tennessee, where respect for tradition meets a singular creative vision. He also launched Handplow Records, named after the rust colored handplow in his great uncle’s yard across the street from his home, a nod to the steady work that has defined his path. The ten song collection leans into patience and quiet resolve, reflected in Slow Growth, which follows a constant gardener finding daily ways to become better. Caudle’s touring has taken him around the world, with festival highlights that include Merlefest, Luck Reunion, Kerrville Folk Festival, Bourbon & Beyond, Stagecoach, and Cayamo, and his albums have earned praise from The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, NPR, No Depression, and Rolling Stone. He has appeared multiple times on NPR’s Mountain Stage and has served as a guest DJ on SiriusXM’s Outlaw Country, where his songs receive frequent airplay. In the fall of 2024 he reached a career milestone with his first appearance at the Grand Ole Opry.

FTB Shines

Real McCoys transforms into a glittery dance floor for a night of feel-good, sparkly grooves. Shiny outfits set the tone while FASTER THSN BOYS delivers the music that keeps the party moving.

Once Upon a One More Time

Enjoy a playful, twist-on-the-classics musical that turns familiar fairytales upside down. Once Upon A One More Time imagines a fairy godmother who goes rogue and drops copies of The Feminine Mystique into the laps of well-known heroines, sending them on a quest to rewrite their stories and rethink “happily ever after.” The show is performed by Theatre Raleigh ACT Performance Company students.

Theatre Raleigh

Paula Poundstone

Paula Poundstone returns to The Rialto with her keen observations, spontaneous improv, and distinctive voice. Audiences may recognize her from NPR’s Wait Wait... Don’t Tell Me and as “Forgetter Paula.”

The Rialto

Durham, NC – Ira Glass: Stories for a Saturday Night

Ira Glass, host of This American Life, brings an evening of storytelling to DPAC in Durham that blends humor with heartfelt moments in the signature style he helped create. More than three million listeners tune in to his show each week, and the program has earned major accolades, including three Emmys for its television adaptation, eight Peabody Awards, and the first Pulitzer Prize ever awarded to a radio show or podcast. For decades it has remained among the world’s most popular podcasts. Glass pioneered a way of crafting radio narratives that reshaped audio storytelling and has been widely emulated. The result is a night of funny and affecting tales about everyday people, resonating with longtime followers and those discovering his work for the first time.

The International Festival

The International Festival is a full weekend celebration of global culture, featuring live performances, international food, and cultural experiences. Enjoy a lineup of entertainment throughout the day, plus a scavenger hunt for families and kids. Ticket includes international entertainment, show access, food, and one drink ticket.

Theatre Raleigh

Beginners Wheel Throwing Class: First Spin

If you’ve been curious about the pottery wheel, this one-time beginner class is a great place to start. You’ll get hands-on practice learning the fundamentals of wheel throwing, including how to center clay, pull walls, and safely operate and clean up the wheel. No prior experience is needed, and it’s geared for ages 8 and up. After you make your piece and it goes through bisque firing, you’ll be notified by email when you can come back to apply the glaze at no extra cost.

Once Upon a One More Time

Once Upon A One More Time brings a playful twist to classic fairytales, with pop hits setting the stage for a story where a rogue fairy godmother upends the “happily ever after” formula. Theatre Raleigh ACT Performance Company students perform this musical romp that follows the heroines as they set out to rewrite their own stories. Come for an evening of witty fairy-tale chaos and catchy music.

Theatre Raleigh

NeuroGraphic Expressive Art with Kelly Rye

Explore neurographic expressive art with Kelly Rye in a calm, creative session that uses mindful drawing to ease stress. Developed in 2014 by Russian psychologist Pavel Piskarev, this method invites you to draw fluid, organic lines and soften sharp intersections, placing attention on the soothing process rather than a polished final piece. Often described as a brain scribble, it helps quiet racing thoughts and brings focus to the present moment. This experience is open to everyone and requires no prior art skills. All supplies are provided, and participants may attend with a friend. The approach is commonly used in art therapy to support stress reduction and to help manage anxiety, chronic pain, and difficult emotions. Goals include a reset for the nervous system, relaxation, happiness, clarity, calm, improved concentration, and overall mental and emotional wellness. The program is for ages 15 and up, with anyone under 18 accompanied by an adult. The price is $25. To preserve a restorative atmosphere, cell phones and smart watches must be left in your vehicle or secured in a complimentary locker during the class.

August 30 Mahjong & Wine

Spend a sunny afternoon at Unwined on White with a friendly Mahjong session paired with wine. Expect a laid-back mix of guided play options and open tables for meeting other players. The event includes mats, tiles, and snacks, and there’s a one-drink minimum at the venue (non-alcoholic options are available).

Unwined on White

Bring Out Yer Dead

Bring Out Yer Dead pays tribute to the Grateful Dead with a show that mirrors the feel of the band's live concerts. Founded in 2019 and based in Raleigh, NC, the group is dedicated to recreating that concert experience.

Dale Elliott Jr.

Dale Elliott Jr will perform live for a dancehall show at Raleigh Improv in Cary. The event listing places the performance at 6:00 PM.

AUG31

Kehlani

Kehlani is performing live at Coastal Credit Union Music Park at Walnut Creek, with Durand Bernarr, TheARTI$t, DIXSON, Isaia Huron, and WASEEL also on the lineup. The show starts at 6:30 PM local time.

SEP3

Gary Clark Jr.

Gary Clark Jr., regarded as one of modern music's influential artists, performs at DPAC. His first Grammy arrived in 2014 for Best Traditional R&B Performance with 'Please Come Home' from his debut album Blak and Blu. Subsequent releases The Story of Sonny Boy Slim and the acclaimed This Land expanded his reach, drawing wide praise, adding multiple Grammy Awards, and debuting at number 6 on the Billboard 200. Recognized as an in-demand live performer, he has appeared on major television programs, headlined leading festivals and venues around the world, and performed alongside The Rolling Stones. His collaborations include Stevie Wonder, Alicia Keys, John Legend, Foo Fighters, and Eric Clapton. With four Grammys to date, his artistic growth continued with JPEG RAW, released in March 2024 on Warner Records.

SEP8

Best Business Networking in Wake Forest

Triangle Divorce Lawyers brings local professionals together at Real McCoy’s for a quarterly networking event in Wake Forest. It is intended for business people who want to broaden referral connections, explore partnerships, and meet new contacts. Participants can share insights, make introductions, and cultivate relationships that may lead to new opportunities.

SEP8

Horse Club- Free Kids Event

JAKS Stables Horse Club offers the community a welcoming way to deepen knowledge about horses across many topics. Kids learn about equine anatomy, common health concerns, barn manners, proper saddle fit, and nutrition, along with additional subjects as the club progresses. There is no riding included. The club is free and designed for ages 6 to 16, creating a friendly space for young horse enthusiasts to connect and build friendships.

SEP9

Duke Caregiver Community Event

Attendee registration is now open for the Duke Caregiver Community Event at the Sheraton Imperial Hotel Raleigh-Durham Airport At Research Triangle Park. This two day gathering welcomes family caregivers, healthcare professionals, and representatives of caregiving organizations. Participants will find resources, sessions led by experts, and opportunities to connect and recharge with others who understand the caregiving experience.

Sheraton Imperial Hotel

SEP10

Fundraisers

Goodness Gathering 2026

Hosted by Hope + Vine, the Goodness Gathering is a flagship annual fundraiser that brings community members, partners, and supporters together for an evening focused on purpose and generosity. The experience includes a mix of silent and live auctions, interactive activities for attendees, and thoughtfully crafted moments that spotlight local brands and makers. Support raised fuels Hope + Vine’s mission to empower young women transitioning out of foster care through paid employment, mentorship, and life skills development. Participation becomes a shared effort to build lasting stability and opportunity for women creating independent futures.

The Sutherland

SEP11

South White Street Wake Forest, NC 27587

Friday Night on White

Friday Night on White brings Downtown Wake Forest to life with live music and a welcoming community vibe. This installment features Liquid Pleasure, setting the tone for a fun, upbeat night in the heart of town.

SEP11

Mystery Machine Live at Real McCoys

Mystery Machine performs live at Real McCoy's, offering a light, playful take on rock and roll for an easygoing night of music.

SEP12

A Day 4 Him - A Day of Giving Back

Taking place in Raleigh, N.C., A Day 4 Him is a community-centered day of service with opportunities to contribute both on campus and around the city. One project focuses on the Bounty Garden, where volunteers cultivate beds, pull weeds, and gather fresh produce to support local food needs, and it welcomes participants of all ages. Another project involves the Miracle League to help children with special needs enjoy baseball through supportive, on-field assistance. The day emphasizes practical ways to serve others through hands-on efforts that benefit the community.

Raleigh N.C.

SEP13

Ronnie White's Main Street Service Station

catelandclassic Cruise In

At Ronnie White's Main Street Service Station, attendees can look forward to a 50/50 cash drawing, a food truck, access to restrooms, and vendors. There is ample parking for trailers and plenty of hotels in the area. The gathering will be filmed for the Cateland Classic channel on YouTube. For details, call 919-435-4915.

SEP13

Sazón Latin Food Festival 2026: Raleigh’s Taste of Latin American Food

The Sazón Latin Food Festival brings a family-friendly outdoor celebration to Raleigh Brewing Company with Latin music, curated food vendors, and drinks. This annual gathering highlights the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean, Central, and South America, offering a wide range of dishes plus desserts to enjoy. Vegetarian and vegan options will be available, and gluten-free choices may vary by vendor. Entry requires a ticket or RSVP. Outside food and beverages are not permitted. Pets are generally not allowed unless the venue states otherwise. By attending, guests consent to photo and video capture, and all sales are final.

Raleigh Brewing Company

SEP17

An Evening with Sam Robbins

At The Wake Forest Listening Room, singer songwriter Sam Robbins shares folk centered songs with a storyteller’s touch that resonates with listeners, a quality highlighted by Parade Magazine. Often described as an old soul in the singer songwriter tradition, his music recalls classic voices such as James Taylor and Jackson Browne while adding a contemporary, upbeat edge to the troubadour’s craft. He tours across the country, has shared stages with Jason Mraz and David Wilcox, and has performed on main stages at Kerrville, Falcon Ridge, and the Philadelphia Folk Festivals. Beyond performing, he also leads songwriting workshops nationwide, has received an Artist of the Year nomination at the International Folk Music Awards, and is recognized as a rising voice in the national folk community.

SEP17

Little Feat: The Last Farewell Tour

Little Feat brings The Last Farewell Tour to DPAC, honoring a legacy that began in 1969 when Frank Zappa encouraged Lowell George to form his own band. The name came from George's small shoe size, and the early lineup featured keyboardist Bill Payne and drummer Richie Hayward. The group later welcomed Kenny Gradney, Sam Clayton, Paul Barrere, and Fred Tackett, building a catalog that includes Dixie Chicken, Oh, Atlanta, Willin', and Fat Man in the Bathtub, as well as the live album Waiting for Columbus. The road has included the losses of George in 1979, Hayward in 2010, and Barrere in 2019, after which the band added Scott Sharrard and drummer Tony Leone. Their story continues with a recent album of original songs titled Strike Up the Band.

James Brickey - Burnt Barrel (Youngsville, NC)

James returns to Burnt Barrel with his trademark coffeehouse and grunge sound, delivering a set full of 90s classics.

Brown Mountain Lightning Bugs w/Couldn't Be Happiers

The Wake Forest Listening Room hosts a night featuring Brown Mountain Lightning Bugs with Couldn't Be Happiers. Brown Mountain Lightning Bugs deliver a folk fusion sound that blends roots traditions with a slightly trippy edge, drawing comparisons to a meeting of Jerry Garcia’s free spirit and Tom Waits’ gravelly storytelling. Their goal is simple, to spark toe tapping and head bobbing while making connections along the way. They have toured widely across the United States and overseas with stops that include the Anchorage Folk Festival, the Mine Shaft Tavern, Mill Farm Music in the UK, Rockwood Music Hall, and Piedmont Folkways. Away from the stage, this North Carolina duo is often on mountain trails with their dogs and cat, or unwinding with video games. Couldn’t Be Happiers brings award-winning Americana and folk-rock with an easy onstage rapport that spreads through the room. Their style has been likened to a blend of the Violent Femmes and Johnny and June, and their original songs travel through quirky and poignant terrain, from a Bigfoot devotee’s quest to the wanderings of a plastic bag to end-of-the-world reflections on climate change. Warm, homespun harmonies and commanding vocals steer the set from churchlike sweetness to holler grit to classic Opry polish.

Gary Owen: No Hard Feelings Tour

Gary Owen takes the stage with the sharp observational comedy and fearless storytelling that have defined more than two decades of performances. His material draws on his own life, his years in the military, and the everyday oddities that connect people across backgrounds. His audience has grown by the millions on social media, and he continues to be one of the most sought-after touring comics. Audiences may also recognize him from films including Back on the Strip with Tiffany Haddish and Wesley Snipes, Meet the Blacks and its sequel The House Next Door, Think Like a Man and Think Like a Man Too, Ride Along with Ice Cube and Kevin Hart, Little Man with the Wayans Brothers, and Daddy Day Care with Eddie Murphy, as well as his memorable turn as Bearcat in the MGM film College. Ticket access includes a public onsale, an artist presale, a Friends of DPAC presale, and VIP package options.

DLS @ Real McCoy's - Wake Forest

Real McCoy’s in Wake Forest sets the stage for a lively night with DLS, a high-energy yet down-to-earth band from the area. Look forward to chilled drinks, tasty food, and grooves that will keep you moving.

Cash Money & No Limit Tour: Raleigh

A landmark hip hop double bill brings Cash Money and No Limit together on the same stage at Lenovo Center in Raleigh, part of a 17-city run and the first tour the two camps have ever shared. The lineup features Cash Money’s Birdman, Juvenile, Mannie Fresh, and B.G., alongside No Limit’s Master P, Silkk The Shocker, Mia X, Mac, Fiend, Mercedes, Choppa Style, and Mr. Serv-On, with a special appearance by Boosie Badazz. Expect full label sets presented back to back, not a quick nostalgia recap or medley, created for a crowd that knows the lyrics by heart. The Carolinas have backed both movements since the early days, and this stop salutes that legacy. This is a single-night engagement in Raleigh.

Lenovo Center

Cruisin' For Christ Car Show

Cruisin’ For Christ brings a community car show to Oak Grove Baptist Church, combining classic automobiles with a focus on faith and fellowship. Attendees can explore show cars and everyday drivers while enjoying music, games, and a variety of food and drinks. Trophies will be awarded to the top three vehicles, adding friendly competition to the festivities. This family-friendly gathering centers on cars, community, and Christ.

Fall HerbFest 2026

Returning earlier this season, Fall HerbFest brings back the perennial mums that were a hit last year. The event proceeds in any weather and features mums along with organically grown, non-GMO herbs to help jump-start fall gardening.

Take 10 Band at Real McCoy’s

Take 10 returns to The Real McCoy's in Wake Forest with a high energy mix of rock, country, and pop. The performance blends classic hits with modern energy for a party atmosphere from start to finish. Admission is free.

Fantasy Lake Adventure Park

Outdoor Recreation

DUDC September Outing at Fantasy Lake Adventure Park

The Down Under Divers Club holds an outing at Fantasy Lake Adventure Park focused on diving, connection with fellow divers, and a shared meal. Suitable for all experience levels, attendees can spend time in the quarry and meet others in the community. Lunch features Carolina style pork barbecue smoked overnight. To locate the group on site, look for the red Down Under Divers Club banner.

Blackbird Fall Artisan Market

Experience a fall artisan market at Blackbird Brewery in Wake Forest. Browse creations from local artisans while enjoying craft beer, wine, or a nonalcoholic beverage as you shop.

Blackbird Brewery

SEP20

15th Mama Afrika Festival

Now in its 15th edition, the Mama Afrika Festival is a free community celebration at the Southeast Raleigh YMCA. Attendees can experience live African drumming and other performances, enjoy authentic food, take part in games for adults and youth, and visit health and wellness booths. Children have a dedicated kid zone, and a range of vendors adds to the lively atmosphere. The focus is on culture, unity, and uplifting one another, with a day of music, flavors, and activities for all ages. Vendor spots are available.

Southeast Raleigh YMCA

SEP20

Hilton Raleigh North Hills

Crossing Over with Psychic Medium John Edward live in Raleigh, NC

Psychic medium John Edward brings a live experience to Raleigh at Hilton Raleigh North Hills, centered on real connections, meaningful validations, and messages from beyond. Recognized from Crossing Over and as a New York Times bestselling author, he leads an interactive program with audience Q&A and readings that may include loved ones and even pets, creating a setting focused on personal insight and healing. Attendees can choose between Regular Admission and a VIP Experience. Regular Admission includes entry to the two-hour event with general admission seating. VIP adds early entry with first choice of seats, an exclusive Q&A after the program with John, a complimentary one-month Evolve+ app subscription, and a bonus online event featuring additional readings and Q&A. Whether you are seeking connection or closure, are curious about the afterlife, or want a memorable experience, this program aims to make an impact. Ticket availability is limited and events often sell out.

SEP26

Wake Forest Renaissance Centre

2026 Wake Forest Mental Wellness Fair

The Town of Wake Forest, together with community partners, presents the fourth annual Wake Forest Mental Wellness Fair at the Wake Forest Renaissance Centre. This community event highlights mental well-being and connects attendees with local programs, services, and resources for individuals living with untreated or undertreated mental illness, as well as the people who support them. Activities are planned for children and teens, and guidance will be available for families, older adults, and veterans. A featured session, Plugged in: Conversation about Kids, Technology, and Mental Health, explores the pressures young people face with social media, video games, and constant phone use. Parents will learn practical ways to recognize warning signs and offer support. Everyone is welcome, whether seeking help or looking for tools to assist others. Preregistration is encouraged but not required.

SEP26

Triangle Ranch Horse Show 2

Now in its third year, this installment of the Triangle Ranch Horse Series is a ranch-focused horse show featuring live cattle. The event includes a variety of classes suited to different interests and experience levels, offering options for a wide range of participants. As part of a continuing series, it highlights ranch-style competition and cattle work, with something for everyone.

SEP27

Michael Blakey Live at Burnt Barrel (SOLO)

American rock singer-songwriter Michael Blakey brings a solo performance to Burnt Barrel, channeling influences from 90s rock, grunge, classic rock, and folk punk. With incisive lyrics, unfiltered energy, and propulsive guitar work, his storytelling-driven songs travel from far-off places to the inner landscape of the mind. He is also known for acoustic renditions of classic rock and 90s favorites, offering a fresh spin on familiar tracks.

Burnt Barrel

OCT2

Jason Adamo presents North Carolina Songwriters in the Round

Jason Adamo brings together a circle of North Carolina singer-songwriters for an in-the-round performance with two sets, four artists in each. The lineup features Jason Adamo, Rissi Palmer, Abigail Dowd, Dawn Landes, Dylan Walshe, Rob Watson, John Sierra, and Lakota John. Adamo resides in Raleigh and has also lived in New York City and Nashville, earning Gold and Platinum plaques for his songwriting on Brett Young’s debut album. Palmer’s work has been widely recognized, including a 2022 Forbes mention among 15 Black artists redefining country music and inclusion in the GRAMMY Museum’s Power of Women in Country Music exhibit. Dowd is a singer-songwriter and guitarist whose songs reflect Southern roots, lived experience, and a close connection to the natural world. Landes, based in North Carolina, has music heard on The Good Wife, House, and Gossip Girl, and her release The Liberated Woman’s Songbook explores folk songs tied to women’s activism from the 1800s through the 1970s. Walshe has performed alongside Ralph Stanley and Del McCoury, presenting original Celtic folk blues, traditional working-class songs, and distinctive reinterpretations. Watson is a singer, songwriter, drummer, and guitarist whose voice draws comparisons to Bono, Jeff Buckley, and Curtis Mayfield. Sierra cites influences ranging from C. S. Lewis and the Killers to Mumford & Sons and Puccini, guided by a belief in music’s power to heal and give meaning. Lakota John is a North Carolina based songwriter and multi-instrumentalist with Lumbee and Oglala Lakota roots, blending folk, jazz, rock, and blues into a soulful sound.

OCT2

Deep 6 at Real McCoy's

Deep 6 brings a Pearl Jam tribute to Real McCoy's in Wake Forest, NC, along with grunge hits from Nirvana, Alice In Chains, Foo Fighters, Stone Temple Pilots, Silverchair, Candlebox, Screaming Trees, Mudhoney, and Bush. The performance leans into the era’s flannel-and-Doc Martens vibe and centers on the signature sound of 90s grunge rock.

Bed By 10 Is Coming To Raleigh!

Bed By 10 brings an early-evening club experience to Alchemy for guests aged 30 and up. Relive the energy of the 80s, 90s, and early 2000s as the resident DJ spins crowd-pleasing club classics, paired with striking visuals that set the mood. Expect a welcoming atmosphere that makes it easy to dance, mingle, and enjoy great music, with a schedule that keeps the night fun without running late. Ticket purchases indicate acceptance of the organizer’s terms and conditions, and a customer service team is available to help with questions.

Alchemy Raleigh

Fortune Feimster: Takin' Care of Biscuits Comedy Tour

Fortune Feimster brings the Takin’ Care of Biscuits Comedy Tour to DPAC, offering an evening of upbeat stand-up shaped by her singular point of view. She recently finished work on Netflix’s The Fifth Wheel with Kim Kardashian, Nikki Glaser, and Brenda Song, directed by Eva Longoria, and is set to appear opposite Will Ferrell in Hawk, a Netflix comedy series centered on golf. She also voiced Nibbles in Disney’s Oscar-nominated Zootopia 2. Her third Netflix special, Fortune Feimster: Crushing It, follows Good Fortune and Sweet & Salty, both recognized with Critics Choice nominations. In addition to the stage and screen, she co-hosts the podcast Handsome with Tig Notaro and Mae Martin, a GLAAD Media Award winner for Outstanding Podcast. Originally from North Carolina and now based in Los Angeles, she returns to the stage with the lively humor audiences know from her work across TV, film, and podcasts.

Paws on the Run: Our 24th Annual 5K & 1-Mile Dog Walk

Marking its 24th year, Paws on the Run features a 5K and a one mile dog walk. Activities begin with on-site registration, followed by the 5K, then the walk. Afterward, an awards presentation and a dog costume parade round out the event.

Moore Square, Downtown Raleigh

Taste of Asia 2026 | Raleigh

Taste of Asia 2026 fills Moore Square in Downtown Raleigh with the flavors, sights, and sounds of cultures from across Asia. Sample authentic cuisine, take in live performances, and enjoy a showcase of traditional fashion. Families can look forward to creative activities, including dragon boat inspired fun, and there is plenty to explore among more than 100 food, artisan, and cultural vendors. Admission is free. This celebration is supported by cohosts North Carolina Asian Americans Alliance, North Carolina Chinese American Society, AANHPI Unity Collective, Carolina AAPI Business Alliance, North Carolina Chinese Business Association, Nepal Center of North Carolina, Japan-America Society of North Carolina, and One Heart Many Hands NC, with sponsorship from Hibachi 88 as Diamond Sponsor, iPearl as Platinum Sponsor, and Bronze support from Yan Zhang CPA, YCL CPA, and Szechuan Mansion Hotpot.

OCT6

Tom Jones: Come Gather Round Tour

Tom Jones brings the Come Gather Round Tour to DPAC, highlighting an extraordinary career that spans more than six decades. The Welsh vocalist has sold over 100 million records and is celebrated for a catalog that includes "It's Not Unusual," "What's New Pussycat?," "Delilah," and "Green, Green Grass of Home," along with his widely watched television series This Is Tom Jones from 1969 to 1971. At 85, he continues to receive some of the strongest reviews of his career for recent Ethan Johns produced albums Surrounded By Time, Long Lost Suitcase, Spirit In The Room, and Praise & Blame, with critics praising both the recordings and his performances. This appearance showcases an influential artist whose music and presence continue to connect with audiences around the world.

OCT9

An Evening with Luke Bulla

Grammy-winning fiddler and vocalist Luke Bulla brings a solo performance to The Wake Forest Listening Room. He grew up onstage with his family band, began playing fiddle at seven, and went on to win the National Fiddle Contest in Weiser, Idaho multiple times in his age divisions. At sixteen he captured the Grand Champion title, becoming the youngest winner at that time. After moving to Nashville in 1999 to pursue music full time, he spent his early Tennessee years with Ricky Skaggs’ Kentucky Thunder, a stint that led to his first Grammy, and later performed with the John Cowan Band. His studio and stage credits include Brandi Carlile, Jim Lauderdale, Darrell Scott, Alison Krauss, Jerry Douglas, Sam Bush, Edgar Meyer, Bela Fleck, Bryan Sutton, Kevin Costner & Modern West, Russ Barenberg Trio, Shawn Colvin, Tony Rice, Chris Thile, Peter Rowan, Patty Griffin, Glen Phillips, Rodney Crowell, and Earl Scruggs. He released a solo EP in 2009 featuring Jerry Douglas, Sam Bush, Bela Fleck, and Aoife O’Donovan, has toured with Lyle Lovett since 2009, and followed with the 2016 LP Who Loves You Better produced by Bryan Sutton. This event showcases an artist currently traveling the country with his own solo shows.

OCT10

Fundraisers

2026 Beaglefest Benefiting Triangle Beagle Rescue

Beaglefest benefiting Triangle Beagle Rescue offers a full slate of activities for people and their pups. Look for raffle opportunities and TBR merchandise, including a new event T-shirt, the 2027 calendar, and more. Enjoy professional fall photo sessions, dog contests such as Best Costume, Softest Ears, and Best AROOOO, peanut butter painting, and pup cups. An expanded vendor lineup makes it easy to shop for both humans and furry friends. Poblanos Tacos and More will serve food for lunch or an early dinner, with dessert truck details to be announced. Lonerider Brewing Company will donate $1 for every pint and specialty beverage sold, and mocktails will be available. Professional pup portraits are available, with Bradley Wilser donating his time through Brad Wilser Photography. Fosters and volunteers can visit the TBR tent to receive a complimentary beverage ticket and enter for a special prize. Dog friendly vendors include All That Glitters, Beagle Life, Fiction & Flame Candle Co., Lola Lou, Rescue Treats, and The Social Hound. Details on raffle items are coming soon.

OCT10

Volunteers Needed to Harvest Sweet Potatoes!

YMCA volunteers will gather at the Wake Forest Presbyterian Church Giving Garden to plant 450 sweet potatoes. This collaborative garden project offers a chance to work side by side with fellow volunteers on a large planting effort.

WFPC Giving Garden

OCT13

Horse Club- Free Kids Event

JAKS Stables Horse Club gives kids a chance to deepen their understanding of horses across a wide range of subjects. Topics include equine anatomy, common illnesses, barn etiquette, saddle fit, nutrition, and more that build well-rounded knowledge. The club is free and designed for ages 6 to 16. Riding is not part of the program. It also offers a friendly setting for young horse lovers to meet others their age and form new friendships.

OCT16

An Evening with Alexa Rose (featuring Josh Oliver)

The Wake Forest Listening Room hosts an intimate evening with Alexa Rose, featuring Josh Oliver. Praised by NPR Music, Rose brings an Appalachian-rooted voice shaped by her upbringing in the Alleghany Highlands of western Virginia and the small railroad town of Clifton Forge. Family stories about a great-grandfather who once played alongside bluegrass legend Lester Flatt, yet chose life in the mountains over Nashville, inform the place-based storytelling at the heart of her songs. Her 2019 debut, Medicine For Living, introduced that vision, with the title track winning Merlefest’s Chris Austin Songwriting Contest. The 2021 follow up, Headwaters, written largely in the early days of the pandemic, earned national attention from American Songwriter and Rolling Stone and reflects on origins and memory through the image of a river’s source. Expect a sound that blends old country and traditional folk with touches of rock and mountain soul, finding beauty in everyday moments and timeless themes. Josh Oliver, a multi-instrumentalist and songwriter from East Tennessee now based in Knoxville, adds depth to the night. He has toured widely as a supporting musician, released Troubles in 2011, and collaborated with producer Andrew Marlin on Part of Life in 2014. Since 2012 he has toured and recorded with the Chapel Hill band Mandolin Orange, now known as Watchhouse.

OCT17

454 Live at Real McCoy's

This event features an evening devoted to rock and roll.

OCT17

RadioStar Live @ The Cardinal Bar Wake Forest!

RadioStar brings a high-energy night to the Cardinal Bar in downtown Wake Forest, celebrating favorites from the MTV era of the 80s through the 2000s. Expect plenty of dancing and singalong moments with songs by Pat Benetar, Alanis Morrisette, Jon Bon Jovi, Def Leppard, Journey, AC/DC, Guns and Roses, The Outfield, Walk the Moon, Jimmy Eat World, Backstreet Boys, Radiohead, Britney Spears, Paramore, Blink-182, Killers, Nirvana, Fall Out Boy, and more. Early arrival is recommended since the best spots tend to fill quickly.

OCT22

Elmo's Got the Moves

Elmo's Got the Moves brings the fun of Sesame Street Live to DPAC with an all-new production that gets families moving together. Kids and parents dance, stretch, and play alongside Elmo and favorite friends to beloved songs like Sunny Days, Elmo's Got the Moves, and Letter of the Day. The show features playful ways to stay active, from simple yoga and jumping rope to cartwheels and silly dance steps, all in a friendly setting that brings Sesame Street magic to life on stage. More than a performance, it offers a shared moment of laughter and learning that families can cherish long after the music ends.

OCT22

An Evening with Hank, Pattie & the Current

A special Thursday performance spotlights Hank Smith on banjo and Pattie Hopkins Kinlaw on fiddle, bluegrass innovators whose music blends tradition with touches of classical, Motown, jazz, and pop. Known as hard hitting pickers who also perform in symphonic classical settings, they shape their many influences into a sound that stays true to themselves. The performance features standout musicianship, rich vocal harmonies, heartfelt delivery, and inventive arrangements that connect with listeners of all ages. Rounding out the lineup are bassist Stevie Martinez, who also appears with the Asheville Symphony, and guitarist Billie Feather, who holds multiple academic credentials in guitar and engineering.

OCT23

Clint Black & Midland - Live in Concert: 8 Nights Only

DPAC hosts a special stop on a limited eight-show tour that unites country icon Clint Black with the GRAMMY-nominated trio Midland, known for its retro nuevo sound, in a rare collaboration. The concert brings two eras of country music together with high-energy performances and storytelling, with both acts sharing the stage. Expect favorites from Clint Black like Killin' Time, A Better Man, and Like the Rain, alongside Midland standouts such as Drinkin' Problem, Burn Out, and Sunrise Tells the Story. Ticket options include a public onsale, artist presales for Clint Black and Midland, a Friends of DPAC presale, and VIP packages.

OCT27

BECK: RIDE LONESOME TOUR

Beck brings the Ride Lonesome Tour to DPAC. The new original song "Ride Lonesome," produced by Beck and mixed by Nigel Godrich, points to a fresh yet familiar direction for him. Its sound recalls the intimate, haunting textures of Morning Phase, which won the GRAMMY for Album of the Year in 2015, as well as the earlier Sea Change, and it features several of the same musicians from those sessions. Beginning with warm acoustic guitar and building to an emotional final chorus, the track sets an evocative tone. Ticket options include a public onsale, along with presales for Citi Cardmembers, the artist, Friends of DPAC, Spotify, and Live Nation, plus a Citi Cardmember preferred offering.

OCT30

An Evening with Murray Attaway, Don Dixon & Peter Holsapple

Three influential voices of American alternative music come together for a special evening shaped by decades of songwriting, production, and collaboration. Murray Attaway first came to prominence as the singer and guitarist for Guadalcanal Diary, later releasing his solo album In Thrall on DGC in 1993 with producer Tony Berg. He has composed for independent films, placed songs in film and television, and created the satirical Dazzle Dudes podcast in 2019 about a fictional group trying to launch a glam rock band in 1970s central Georgia. His first new album in more than thirty years, Tense Music Plays, arrives in April. Don Dixon is a producer, songwriter, and musician closely tied to the early 1980s jangle rock sound. After forming Arrogance as a UNC-Chapel Hill freshman and producing the band’s independent releases, he co-produced R.E.M.'s Murmur and Reckoning with Mitch Easter, then worked with artists such as Chris Stamey, The Smithereens, Fetchin' Bones, Richard Barone, Guadalcanal Diary, Marshall Crenshaw, Tommy Keene, and James McMurtry. Peter Holsapple made his mark with the dBs alongside Chris Stamey, Gene Holder, and Will Rigby, becoming the principal singer and songwriter after Stamey’s departure. He performed as an auxiliary musician with R.E.M. and Hootie & the Blowfish, joined the Continental Drifters, and released solo albums including Out of the Way and Game Day. The dBs reunited in 2024 to support re-releases of their catalog, and his third solo album, produced by Don Dixon, was released on April 12, 2025. Together, their histories link landmark bands, albums, and recordings across jangle rock and beyond, setting the stage for an evening rich with connections and enduring music.