This weekend in Wake Forest, NC

Appalachian State Mountaineers face the NC State Wolfpack at Carter-Finley Stadium in a college football matchup grounded in in-state pride. These programs share deep regional connections and have been competitive in recent seasons, setting up a lively contest. Differences in playing style add extra intrigue for fans across the state.

The farmers market at North Hills in Raleigh highlights 100 percent Wagyu beef and Berkshire pork raised in North Carolina. It offers a convenient way to stock up for weekend cookouts, game day menus, or simply to have something special on hand.

This monthly breakfast brings together the Little British Car community for relaxed conversation and camaraderie over a meal. Attendees hear updates on events and other happenings, and there are drawings for prizes. Registration is not needed. The gathering is at the Golden Corral, with the private meeting room expected to be available to the right after paying at the front so the group can sit together.

Hosted at the Durham Convention Center in Durham, North Carolina, this two day convention is designed for storytellers, creators, and a strong sense of community. Attendees can take part in panel discussions, browse vendor and artist offerings, enjoy gaming, show off cosplay, and explore additional programming throughout the weekend.

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.

Get started with boxing in a complimentary one-hour introductory class for beginners. Wear workout clothes and bring a water bottle, and all other gear will be provided. Participants also receive a free follow-up class to continue building skills.

Hosted at New Hope Collaborative, this free community program explores the caregiving side of multiple sclerosis. Health experts, people living with MS, and caregivers will share firsthand experiences and practical support, with an emphasis on turning awareness into meaningful action. Registration is required. Volunteers are also being sought to support this event and future efforts.

A Saturday series of pickleball matchups brings Raleigh neighbors together to stay active, enjoy friendly competition, and have fun. It welcomes newcomers as well as longtime players. Attendees should bring a paddle, their best serve, and a spirit of community for lively games on the court.

At Raleigh Iron Works in Raleigh, NC, the Raleigh Book Fair welcomes attendees with free entry. Open to all, the event includes a tent or table offering book-themed giveaways and a lineup of five psychological thrillers.

A confidential group therapy gathering created for caregivers who support loved ones. The session focuses on open conversation, emotional encouragement, and practical coping strategies, with refreshments and door prizes in a private, judgment-free environment. To protect everyone’s privacy, NDA forms will be completed before the group begins. Attendance is free.

William & Mary meets Duke on the gridiron at Wallace Wade Stadium for an early-season showdown. The matchup features distinct approaches on both sides, setting up momentum swings and opportunities for standout individual performances. Experience how the strategies unfold across four quarters as these teams compete for control.

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.

This event raises emergency funds for grandparents raising grandchildren through the Emergency Blessing BAGS initiative. The afternoon includes food, games, raffles, and spirited gospel performances. It features Kim Person, a five-time Stellar Awards nominee, along with more entertainment.

Mortali-Tea is a Pagan-focused Death Cafe organized by Via Textricis and held at Panera Bread. Based on the Death Cafe model that began in the UK in 2011 to create a safe space for conversations about death, this gathering offers open, wide-ranging discussion of end-of-life topics through a Pagan lens. The movement has grown to nearly 19,000 gatherings in 91 countries, and this local version was created to serve needs not fully met by other area groups. RSVP by emailing viatextricis@gmail.com.

Celebrate summer car cruises in a spacious, shaded lot where music sets a relaxed vibe. A 50/50 option adds to the fun, and there is a chicken restaurant just across the street for convenient refreshments.

At Salty Turtle Beer Co: Raleigh, Mysti Mayhem presents a mix of covers and original songs in a soulful, blues-influenced style. A North Carolina vocalist, guitarist, and songwriter with more than 20 years of stage experience, she trained professionally with Bo Diddley.

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

Word Jazz brings Actors Improv's blend of on the spot theater and live music to Sharp Nine. Drawing on Ken Nordine's 1957 album of the same name, the show builds scenes from improvised monologues alongside a five piece band. Audience suggestions spark each moment, and off the cuff songs emerge throughout. Musicians Ricky Bloomfield on reeds, Rob Ladd on drums, Robbie Link on bass, Glenn Mehrbach on piano, and Scott Sawyer on guitar perform with Actors Improv, the South's longest running improv company.

Lincoln Theatre hosts JGBCB at Kings in Raleigh for an after party following Gov't Mule and Ziggy Marley. The music continues with JGBCB after the main concert wraps.

City Soul Cafe returns with an open mic night devoted to poetry, music, laughter, and creativity at terminal8bar_lounge. Grand Champs hosts while DJ Supreme keeps the music flowing, shaping a welcoming atmosphere where the community gathers to speak, connect, and feel. Expect surprise moments as fresh voices take the stage. Kickback Q's provides the food and Chusby Whusby brings the desserts, rounding out an experience defined by artistry, camaraderie, and signature City Soul energy.

Prenatal yoga guided by an experienced instructor supports body and mind in a comfortable setting that encourages safe movement during pregnancy. Offered on the first and third Sunday mornings of each month, with options for individual sessions or class packages.

USA Cheer brings its College Recruiting Combine to North Carolina, creating an opportunity for athletes to showcase their skills in front of college Cheer and STUNT coaches. Hosted at North Carolina State University, the event offers two separate sessions, one in the morning and one in the afternoon, so attendees can select the option that works best. Space is limited and sessions may fill quickly.

A welcoming hiking group usually meets in Umstead Park, with frequency that shifts based on the season, weather, and the availability of a hike leader. Starting points and routes change from outing to outing and are shared through a WhatsApp group, and a typical trek covers about four miles. Participants choose a comfortable pace, and some opt to turn back early. To take part, send a WhatsApp message to John Zeiger at 919/522-4212 or contact Susan Nicholas. The group is coordinated by John Zeiger at johnz@outdoorz.net, and members may also post their own hikes.

Settle into a restorative sound bath that invites calm and balance through layers of resonant tones. This meditative experience surrounds you with gentle frequencies that can help soothe the nervous system and nurture emotional equilibrium. Music, sound and vibration have been used for therapeutic purposes for thousands of years, and studies have shown that sound therapy may help lower blood pressure, reduce pulse rate and support the parasympathetic nervous system. The soundscape is crafted with a rich array of instruments at different frequencies, including 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. Hosted at MK Creative Arts Studio. Open to ages 12 and up, with anyone under 18 accompanied by an adult and expected to remain quiet and respectful. No prior experience is required. Each participant has the use of a thick yoga mat, a blanket and a small pillow. Meditation seats are available for those who prefer to sit, along with eye pillows and a limited number of knee bolsters. You are welcome to bring extra cushions, pillows or blankets to make the floor more comfortable. The session aims to align physical, emotional and spiritual aspects, ease brainwave activity into a more restful state and draw focus into the present for relaxation and healing. Length is 1 hour. Price is $40. Please leave cell phones and smart watches in your vehicle during the sound bath.

An outdoor yoga session unfolds at Zinc House Winery & Brewery, inviting mindful movement, steady breathing, and connection in a vineyard setting. The practice is led by Sharon MacGregor, founder of Serenity Farm Yoga Sanctuary, a 26 acre retreat focused on well being, community, and individual growth. Spanning 87 acres, Zinc House includes vineyards, walking trails, rooftop decks, and event spaces. It sits about three miles from Serenity Farm, linking the mat practice with a wider mindfulness experience. This beginner friendly flow follows the breath at a comfortable pace and offers options for all levels, including optional chaturanga progressions for those who want a bit more. The environment supports both body and mind. After class, participants can linger to browse Tip-Z Boutique, pick up gourmet coffee or a bite from a food truck, enjoy sparkling wine or another refreshment, play cornhole, and take in vineyard views while connecting with friends. Please bring a yoga mat, comfortable clothing, and water. An eye cover is optional. Extra cushioning for the knees, such as a towel, is strongly encouraged.

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

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.

At United Skates of America Raleigh, a lively SpongeBob themed skate brings cheerful energy and plenty of rink action for kids, families, and fans of all ages. Roll with the theme on the floor or cheer from the sidelines, and enjoy cartoon worthy excitement 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 spectator admission is $4. A waiver is required for all guests entering the facility, and adults must include the names of all children they are bringing on their waiver.

Put your skills to the test at a free weekly air hockey tournament at Super Rad Retro Lounge. All experience levels are welcome, from first timers to seasoned players, with friendly competition, bragging rights, and plenty of good times. Newcomers can get help learning the basics so they can take part, and the air hockey community is welcoming.

Explore the Raleigh edition of the Black Farmers Market, a family friendly, community supported marketplace that runs weekly and welcomes the public. Browse goods from Black-owned farmers, food producers, and small businesses across the Triangle. Angelica Wellness Shop, a Raleigh herbal tea brand, will offer wellness focused beverages for shoppers, including herbal tea blends in tea bags and sachets, premium bottled spring water, and canned sweet tea, with an unsweetened canned option planned. Suitable for a family visit, a casual stop, or a weekend outing, this rotating market highlights local vendors and fresh finds.

Enjoy a beginner friendly yoga session at Unleashed Store for Cats & Dogs in North Raleigh, where rescue puppies wander the room for cuddles, naps, and playful distractions. Tickets are $35, and all proceeds support Blazin' Trails Bottle Babies, helping rescue puppies receive the care they need to grow strong. Bring a yoga mat, water, and comfortable clothing, and keep a camera ready for sweet moments. Tickets often sell out quickly.

A historian leads a guided tour through downtown Raleigh, visiting several nationally recognized historic sites that trace the city’s journey from a modest rural settlement to the center of state politics. Along the way, hear about the roles that hotels, plantations, skyscrapers, and mansions played in shaping Raleigh’s past.

This self care summit creates a welcoming space for women of color to reevaluate wellness routines with the help of engaging speakers, interactive sessions, and connections to local resources. Tickets include access to a self care discussion panel, entertainment, networking time, lunch, giveaways, and opportunities to shop. A strict dress code applies, with magenta pink and white cocktail attire required. For sponsorship opportunities, email info@shopnoblecompanion.com.

Try Systema in a free introductory class for beginners at Triangle Aikido. This holistic Russian martial art integrates elements of martial arts, yoga, massage, and meditation into practical training that builds natural, intuitive self‑protection while increasing strength, flexibility, and ease under stress. The approach emphasizes moving freely with solid structure and minimal tension. Instruction is progressive and thoughtful, helping participants develop awareness, adaptability, and a calm mindset when situations become unpredictable. Sessions are varied and kept fresh. Participants work at a comfortable pace, prioritizing quality of movement, efficiency, and understanding. A typical class begins with breathing, mobility, and conditioning drawn from Russian martial traditions to release tension and cultivate resilience, then moves into rolling, falling, groundwork, and movement drills built around a central theme. NC Systema is an official school of Systema Vasiliev, and its instructors maintain annual certification through Systema Headquarters in Toronto.

Explore traditional shape-note singing with selections from The Sacred Harp (2025) and The Shenandoah Harmony. New participants are welcome, and loaner books are available. The session takes place in the Visitor Center at Mordecai Historic Park. Accessibility information is available.

Part of the Alfred Hitchcock Film Series in Cinema One at The Carolina Theatre of Durham, this 1950 feature unfolds a backstage mystery set in London. After a famous actress’s husband is killed, her lover Jonathan, played by Richard Todd, is named the prime suspect. Aspiring actress Eve Gill, portrayed by Jane Wyman, goes undercover as a maid to Charlotte Inwood, played by Marlene Dietrich, to search for the truth. As roles overlap with real life, every alibi comes under scrutiny and nothing is quite what it seems. The film runs 110 minutes. Tickets are $12 per person.

Explore Raleigh’s eerie side on a three-hour guided e-bike tour that blends ghost lore, mystery, and local history. New this season, AI-powered digital video presents select stories in the first person from historical figures, adding an immersive dimension to the ride. The journey begins at the North Carolina Museum of Art with a safety briefing and a short orientation ride so everyone gets comfortable on the bikes. A ghost story tied to the museum sets the tone before the group follows the NC Greenway’s "Art to Heart" trail. Stops include Meredith College, known for its haunted reputation, and Dorothea Dix Park for accounts connected to the former mental hospital and nearby cemeteries. Additional stops along the way highlight more spooky tales and local history, then the route loops by NC State and returns to the museum via the Greenway. Suitable for all fitness levels, with e-bikes providing the power so pedaling is optional. Tours generally proceed in light rain or shine. After booking, participants receive an email or text with full details, including the exact meeting time. Cancellations must be made at least 72 hours in advance, and alternate arrangements are provided if weather becomes inclement.

As the weather cools, the patio at Saints & Scholars in Raleigh offers a comfortable spot to unwind. Enjoy lunch with live music and ease into a relaxed Sunday Funday on the patio.

Designed for people who have not always seen themselves represented in the woodshop, this hands-on class creates a welcoming space for women, nonbinary and LGBTQIA+ participants, as well as those with physical or neurodiverse differences. Guided by instructors with nontraditional backgrounds, the session introduces core techniques, explores adaptive methods, and builds confidence with tools in and beyond the shop. All experience levels are encouraged to participate, and repeat attendance is supported since the project changes each time. This session focuses on building an entryway organizer. The cost is $75, and registration must be completed through the organizer’s website. Wear closed-toed shoes and avoid loose clothing or jewelry. All materials, tools, and safety equipment are provided. Refunds are available up to seven days before the class, and registrations can be transferred within that window. There are no refunds or transfers within seven days of the class.

Mark and Tristan present a father and son act that mixes music, comedy, and lively back and forth with the audience. Part piano showdown, part request-driven party, and part quick-witted fun, the show is built on spontaneity with no preset setlist. Tristan showcases standout piano technique, while Mark delivers powerful vocals, guitar, harmonica, and sharp humor. The performance stretches across genres and generations, touching everything from classic rock to pop favorites, with surprise picks sparked by the crowd. Expect an upbeat, high-energy experience where the moment shapes the music and the vibe stays light, playful, and dance friendly.

Explore the legacy of the African American community in Raleigh on a historian-led tour centered on the 19th and early 20th centuries. Hear about educators, engineers, military officers, medical scientists, political leaders, and many more whose accomplishments helped define local history.

Settle in at Hi Wire Brewing Company in Durham for a relaxed Paint Nite where a professional artist guides you through creating a piece on an 11x14 inch canvas. Learn a range of techniques, then follow your curiosity to make the artwork your own. It works well for date night, a friends outing, a celebration, or a little self care. Hi Wire Brewing Company pours from 20 taps and serves draft cocktails, well drinks, mocktails, and other non alcoholic options. There is no kitchen, so outside food is welcome. Food and drinks are sold separately from the painting ticket. The session lasts about two hours and begins promptly. Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes early to get settled and place drink orders before brushes hit the canvas. Advance registration is required, and booking early is encouraged. If the minimum attendance is not met 48 hours before the start, the event will be cancelled. Occasional Early Bird specials are offered on the event's Facebook page. All painting supplies are provided.

Finley Day Camp is marking four decades with a celebration that honors the people and memories that shaped it. Friends connected to FDC from 1986 to today are invited to reconnect and share stories. With so many years behind it, contact lists may be out of date, so spreading the word to fellow FDC friends is helpful. For details and ways to contribute your memories, including if you are not able to attend in person, email Jordan.Black@YMCATriangle.org.

Explore the darker side of Raleigh on a true crime tour that recounts real cases from the city's past. Hear about one of North Carolina's most notorious serial killers, the violent dealings of a Russian oligarch, and a local figure often compared to Jack the Ripper, along with additional true accounts from the darker chapters of the Oak City's history.

Rise Against performs live in concert at Red Hat Amphitheater in Raleigh, North Carolina.

Sunday Salsa Social, now in its 18th year since 2009, offers a welcoming night of Latin dance. It starts with a basic salsa lesson, then continues with social dancing. The music mix focuses on salsa and bachata, with a small number of cha cha, kizomba, merengue, and cumbia tracks. Admission at the door is $10, or $8 for active military and students with ID. Children 17 and under are free with an adult, or $5 if attending alone. Most DJs accept Venmo and credit cards, but bring cash to be sure, as card payments may include an added fee. The DJ roster typically rotates by week. Expect Abuelo Salsero Jack Wolf on first Sundays, Salsa Mike, also known as Michael Delucia, on second Sundays, Pedro Paz on third Sundays, and Monte Alban, Eliuth Cruz Lopez on fourth Sundays. When there is a fifth Sunday, the rotation cycles among them. The schedule is usual and subject to change. For questions, contact Jack Wolf at jackhwolf49@gmail.com or 919-245-8393 or 743-208-5497.