#backtoschoolevents — Public Fediverse posts

Triangle Event Guide Weekend Edition July 31–August 2nd

The first weekend of August brings free concerts, community festivals, art walks, outdoor movies, back-to-school giveaways and family activities to Raleigh, Durham, Cary and communities across the Triangle.

The Triangle Weekend Event Guide for July 31–August 2, 2026, includes Final Friday celebrations in Cary and Hillsborough, Durham Fiesta Latina, Raleigh World of Hot Wheels, museum programs, farmers markets and dozens of free live-music events.

Here is your DoRaleigh guide to what’s happening around the Triangle this weekend.

Friday, July 31, 2026

All-Day Deal

Baskin-Robbins: 31% Off Scoops
All day | Discounted | Participating Baskin-Robbins locations

Celebrate the final day of July with 31% off scoops at participating Baskin-Robbins locations.

Daytime Events

Tasting at Ten
10 a.m. | Free | Counter Culture Coffee Headquarters and Training Center, Durham

Start Friday with a complimentary coffee tasting and learn more about Counter Culture’s current selections.

JoCo Block Party
3–5 p.m. | Free | Johnston County Visitors Bureau

Friday Art, Markets and Community Events

Free Wine Tastings
4:30–6:30 p.m. | Free | Bottle Theory, Apex

Last Fridays Makers Market
5:30–8:30 p.m. | Free | Old Courthouse, Hillsborough

Hillsborough Arts Council’s Live on the Lawn
5:30–8:30 p.m. | Free | Hillsborough

Last Fridays Art Walk
5:30–9 p.m. | Free | Downtown Hillsborough

Downtown Hillsborough offers an entire evening of art, shopping and entertainment, with a makers market, outdoor performances and galleries participating in the monthly Art Walk.

Hillsborough Gallery of Arts: “Intertwined” Opening Reception
6–9 p.m. | Free | Hillsborough Gallery of Arts

Final Friday Cary Art Loop
6–9 p.m. | Free | Downtown Cary

Splash Bash
6–8:30 p.m. | Free | Pleasant Park, Apex

Families can enjoy extended splash-pad hours, outdoor games and food trucks.

Front Porch Friday at Haven Farm
6–10 p.m. | Free | Haven Farm, Knightdale

One Tribe Final Friday Drum Circle
7–8:30 p.m. | Free | Old Cary Library Site

The gathering includes a community drum circle and a flow-arts performance by Caroleena & Friends.

Discover Dance: DISHOOM
7–10:30 p.m. | Free | Downtown Cary Park

Free Friday Concerts

Beer Garden Concert: The Hourglass Kids
6–9 p.m. | Free | The Glass Jug Beer Lab, RTP
Genre: Reggae rock

Live Music
6–9 p.m. | Free | Gizmo Brew Works, Raleigh

Performances at the Page: A Celebration of Bluegrass Featuring Redbud
6:30–9 p.m. | Free | Page-Walker Arts & History Center, Cary

Live @ ATC: Covered in Jam
6:30–9 p.m. | Free | American Tobacco Campus, Durham

Live Music: 2DIGH4
6:30–9:30 p.m. | Free | Oaklyn Springs Brewery, Fuquay-Varina

Bynum Front Porch Friday Night Music Series
7–8:30 p.m. | Free | Bynum Front Porch, Pittsboro

Live Music
7–9 p.m. | Free | Compass Rose Brewery, Raleigh

Live Music: Sam Trebling
7–10 p.m. | Free | Oaklyn Springs Taproom, Fuquay-Varina

Bounce and Brews DJ Night
7–9 p.m. | Free | Gizmo Brew Works, Durham

Live Music Fridays
7 p.m. | Free | Growler Grlz, Durham

Friday Live Music
8–11 p.m. | Free | Tap Yard, Raleigh

Friday Live Music
8–11 p.m. | Free | Yonder: Southern Cocktails & Brew, Hillsborough

Friday Night Entertainment

Dance with Raleigh International Folk Dancers
6:30–10 p.m. | Free | Glen Eden Pilot Park, Raleigh

Drag Bingo
7–9 p.m. | Free | The Glass Jug Downtown Durham Taproom

Comedy Hypnosis Fundraiser Show
7–10 p.m. | $10 | Bombshell Beer Company, Holly Springs

Storytelling Open Mic
7 p.m. | Free | Raleigh Brewing, Raleigh

Movie Night
7 p.m. | Free | Raleigh Brewing, Raleigh

Karaoke Bingo Night
7–11:55 p.m. | Free | KōMANA Brewing Company, Cary

Stand-Up Comedy Open Mic
8–11 p.m. | Free | Durty Bull Brewing Company, Durham

Movie Night at Pluck Farm
8:30 p.m. | Free | Steel String Brewery, Mebane

Pub Karaoke
10–11:59 p.m. | Free | West 94th Street Pub, Durham

Saturday, August 1, 2026

Saturday offers one of the weekend’s largest schedules, including free museum admission, markets, back-to-school events, historical tours, outdoor concerts and family movies.

Saturday Morning Events

Museums on Us at Marbles Kids Museum
All day | Free for eligible Bank of America customers and employees | Marbles Kids Museum, Raleigh

Eligible Bank of America cardholders and employees can receive free admission during the first full weekend of the month. Bring qualifying identification and confirm the program’s admission requirements before arriving.

Visit Cow Sanctuary
8 a.m.–noon | $0–$25 | Brajboro Cow Sanctuary, Chapel Hill

Cars and Coffee Morrisville
8–11 a.m. | Free | Imperial Center, Durham

Durham Craft Market
8 a.m.–noon | Free | Durham Central Park

Home Depot Kids Workshop: Rocket Game
9 a.m.–noon | Free | Participating Home Depot locations

Community Clothing and School-Supplies Giveaway
9 a.m.–1 p.m. | Free | Orange Grove Missionary Baptist Church, Durham

Wendell Baptist Church Community Day
9 a.m.–1 p.m. | Free | Wendell Baptist Church

The community event includes clothing, small-engine repair, a complimentary lunch and a children’s block party.

The Raleigh Market
9 a.m.–5 p.m. | Free admission | N.C. State Fairgrounds, Raleigh

Family and Educational Events

Mill Open House
10 a.m.–1 p.m. | Free | Historic Yates Mill County Park

Saturday Slowdown Market and Open Farm Day
10 a.m.–2 p.m. | Free | RambleRill Farm, Hillsborough

Back-to-School Community Resource Event
10 a.m.–2 p.m. | Free | Durham County Memorial Stadium

Back2School Bash
10 a.m.–2 p.m. | Free | New Hope Baptist Church, Raleigh

Raleigh Dream Center and Carolina Hurricanes defenseman Jaccob Slavin will help host a community event featuring free school supplies, rides and more. Parking is off-site, so attendees should review transportation instructions before leaving home.

Raleigh World of Hot Wheels
10 a.m.–5 p.m. | Free | Triangle Town Center, Raleigh

Día de la Ciencia y la Cultura
10 a.m.–5 p.m. | Free | North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences, Raleigh

This bilingual Day of Science and Culture program combines educational activities with cultural experiences.

Millbrook United Methodist Church Food Pantry
10 a.m.–noon | Free | Millbrook United Methodist Church, Raleigh

Open Farm at Sunrise Community Farm Center
10 a.m.–5 p.m. | $8 | Sunrise Community Farm Center, Chapel Hill

The Market at NCMA
11 a.m.–4 p.m. | Free | North Carolina Museum of Art, Raleigh

Retro Family Series: “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles”
11 a.m. | Free | Carolina Theatre, Durham

Grand Opening of Enso Movement
1:30–3:30 p.m. | Free | Enso Movement, Capital Boulevard, Raleigh

The new Raleigh parkour and acrobatics gym will celebrate its grand opening with a free community event.

Raleigh History Tours

Black History Walking Tour
10–11 a.m. | $6–$10 | Pope House, Raleigh

Historic Raleigh Trolley Tours
11 a.m.–3 p.m. | $6–$10 | Mordecai Historic Park, Raleigh

Four one-hour tours are scheduled during the day.

Free Guided Tours of the North Carolina State Capitol
Tours at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. | Free | North Carolina State Capitol, Raleigh

Saturday Afternoon Events

Reflections Tour for People with Memory Loss
2–3 p.m. | Free | Nasher Museum of Art, Durham

Carrboro Really Really Free Market
2–4 p.m. | Free | Carrboro Town Commons

Oops! All Clowns! Shakespeare!
2:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. | Free | Carrboro Town Commons

Live Music
3 p.m. | Free | Raleigh Brewing, Raleigh

Metalcore Night
4–9 p.m. | Free | Oaklyn Springs Brewery, Fuquay-Varina

Saturday Concerts and Nightlife

Live Music: Olive Branch Quartet
5 p.m. | $5 | Slim’s, Raleigh

Saturdays in Saxapahaw Outdoor Concert Series
5–8 p.m. | Free | Haw River Ballroom area, Saxapahaw

Live Music
5–8 p.m. | Free | Gizmo Brew Works, Raleigh

Live Music Saturdays
5–8 p.m. | Free | Gizmo Brew Works, Durham

Live Music: J Candeed
6–9 p.m. | Free | Durham Beer Garden

Live Music
6–9 p.m. | Free | Fortnight Brewing, Wake Forest

Live Music
6:30–9 p.m. | Free | Southern Peak Brewery, Apex

Rhythm & Reels Concert: Tre. Charles
7 p.m. | Free | Apex Nature Park

Live Music Saturdays
7–10 p.m. | Free | Bombshell Beer Company, Holly Springs

Family Movie Night: “Super Mario Galaxy Movie”
7:30 p.m. | Free | E. Carroll Joyner Park, Wake Forest

Sacred Grounds Coffeehouse Concert
7:30 p.m. | Free | Sacred Grounds Coffeehouse, Durham

2010 Throwback Party
8–11:59 p.m. | Free | Super Rad Retro Lounge Arcade Bar, Raleigh

Open Mic and Karaoke Night
8–11 p.m. | Free | Compass Rose Brewery, Raleigh

Saturday Live Music
8 p.m. | Free | Yonder: Southern Cocktails & Brew, Hillsborough

Movie Night at Pluck Farm
8:30 p.m. | Free | Steel String Brewery, Mebane

Sunday, August 2, 2026

Sunday closes the weekend with markets, cultural festivals, brunch music, community giveaways and outdoor concerts.

Sunday Morning Events

Museums on Us at Marbles Kids Museum
All day | Free for eligible Bank of America customers and employees | Marbles Kids Museum, Raleigh

Visit Cow Sanctuary
8 a.m.–noon | $0–$25 | Brajboro Cow Sanctuary, Chapel Hill

The Raleigh Market
9 a.m.–5 p.m. | Free admission | N.C. State Fairgrounds, Raleigh

Sunday Morning Yoga
10–11 a.m. | Free | Compass Rose Brewery, Raleigh

Mill Open House
10 a.m.–1 p.m. | Free | Historic Yates Mill County Park

Pop-Up ARTernative Market
10 a.m.–3 p.m. | Free | Chapel of Bones Coffee, Raleigh

Raleigh World of Hot Wheels
10 a.m.–5 p.m. | Free | Triangle Town Center, Raleigh

Sunday Brunch Music
11 a.m.–1 p.m. | Free | Weaver Street Market, Carrboro

Sunday Festivals and Markets

Durham Fiesta Latina
Noon–4 p.m. | Free | Durham Central Park

Durham Fiesta Latina brings music, culture and community activities to Durham Central Park.

Fifth Annual Kids Fest
Noon–5 p.m. | Free | Fortnight Brewing, Cary

Okra Jamboree
Noon–6 p.m. | Free | The Plant, Pittsboro

Cary Underground Market: Bands and Vendors
Noon–4 p.m. | Free | Bond Brothers Beer Company, Cary

Morgan Street Sessions
Noon–4 p.m. | Free | Morgan Street Food Hall, Raleigh

Catalog Cupping
1–2 p.m. | Free | Counter Culture Coffee Headquarters and Training Center, Durham

Taste selections from Counter Culture Coffee’s current menu during this guided cupping.

Kanikapila Ukulele Meetup
1–3 p.m. | Free | KōMANA Brewing Company, Cary

Black Farmers’ Market
1–4 p.m. | Free | Durham Technical Community College, Main Campus

Free Air-Hockey Tournament
1 p.m. | Free | Super Rad Retro Lounge Arcade Bar, Raleigh

Sunday Afternoon and Evening Events

Bricks & Minifigs Event
3–5 p.m. | $10 | Ment Beverage Co., Durham

Admission includes a minifigure and beverage.

Back-to-School Bookbag Giveaway
3–6 p.m. | Free | Worthdale Park and Community Center, Raleigh

Craft Club and Supply Swap
3–5 p.m. | Free | The Glass Jug Downtown Durham Taproom

Open Mic Night
3–6 p.m. | Free | Gizmo Brew Works, Raleigh

Bluegrass Open Jam
4–7 p.m. | Free | Bond Brothers Eastside, Cary

Raleigh Concert Series: Holly Springs Community Band
6–8 p.m. | Free | Fred Fletcher Park, Raleigh

Open Mic Night
6–9 p.m. | Free | Clouds Brewing Taproom, Raleigh

Sundays at Sundown Live Music
7–9 p.m. | Free | Southern Village, Chapel Hill

Live Music: Loser
8 p.m. | $5 | Slim’s, Raleigh

Top Weekend Picks

With so many choices, these events stand out for their combination of value, atmosphere and broad appeal:

• Friday: Hillsborough Last Fridays, Final Friday Cary Art Loop and Discover Dance at Downtown Cary Park
• Saturday: Día de la Ciencia y la Cultura, Raleigh World of Hot Wheels, The Market at NCMA and Rhythm & Reels
• Sunday: Durham Fiesta Latina, Okra Jamboree, Morgan Street Sessions and the Raleigh Concert Series at Fred Fletcher Park

Free Things to Do in the Triangle This Weekend

The overwhelming majority of this weekend’s listed events are free. Families can find complimentary school supplies, museum programs, movies, concerts, cultural festivals and markets throughout the region.

Some of the best free options include:

• Home Depot Kids Workshop
• Raleigh World of Hot Wheels
• North Carolina State Capitol tours
• Día de la Ciencia y la Cultura
• Durham Fiesta Latina
• Final Friday Cary Art Loop
• Hillsborough Last Fridays
• The Market at NCMA
• Back-to-school giveaways
• Raleigh Concert Series
• Numerous brewery concerts and open-mic events

Before You Go

Event schedules, admission policies and weather-related plans can change. Confirm details with the organizer before traveling, particularly for outdoor concerts, movies and programs with limited capacity.

Arrive early for school-supply giveaways and free family events. For outdoor activities, bring water, sunscreen, insect repellent and seating when permitted.

Follow DoRaleigh.com for everything Raleigh.

Connect With Us: Instagram | Facebook | BSky | Linkedin

Share With Us: Post your community News, Events, on our Submissions Page.

Advertise With Us: Interested in Advertising click here.

Published by Bryan Tomlinson | BTDesigns.pro |

Triangle Event Guide Weekend Edition July 31–August 2nd

The first weekend of August brings free concerts, community festivals, art walks, outdoor movies, back-to-school giveaways and family activities to Raleigh, Durham, Cary and communities across the Triangle.

The Triangle Weekend Event Guide for July 31–August 2, 2026, includes Final Friday celebrations in Cary and Hillsborough, Durham Fiesta Latina, Raleigh World of Hot Wheels, museum programs, farmers markets and dozens of free live-music events.

Here is your DoRaleigh guide to what’s happening around the Triangle this weekend.

Friday, July 31, 2026

All-Day Deal

Baskin-Robbins: 31% Off Scoops
All day | Discounted | Participating Baskin-Robbins locations

Celebrate the final day of July with 31% off scoops at participating Baskin-Robbins locations.

Daytime Events

Tasting at Ten
10 a.m. | Free | Counter Culture Coffee Headquarters and Training Center, Durham

Start Friday with a complimentary coffee tasting and learn more about Counter Culture’s current selections.

JoCo Block Party
3–5 p.m. | Free | Johnston County Visitors Bureau

Friday Art, Markets and Community Events

Free Wine Tastings
4:30–6:30 p.m. | Free | Bottle Theory, Apex

Last Fridays Makers Market
5:30–8:30 p.m. | Free | Old Courthouse, Hillsborough

Hillsborough Arts Council’s Live on the Lawn
5:30–8:30 p.m. | Free | Hillsborough

Last Fridays Art Walk
5:30–9 p.m. | Free | Downtown Hillsborough

Downtown Hillsborough offers an entire evening of art, shopping and entertainment, with a makers market, outdoor performances and galleries participating in the monthly Art Walk.

Hillsborough Gallery of Arts: “Intertwined” Opening Reception
6–9 p.m. | Free | Hillsborough Gallery of Arts

Final Friday Cary Art Loop
6–9 p.m. | Free | Downtown Cary

Splash Bash
6–8:30 p.m. | Free | Pleasant Park, Apex

Families can enjoy extended splash-pad hours, outdoor games and food trucks.

Front Porch Friday at Haven Farm
6–10 p.m. | Free | Haven Farm, Knightdale

One Tribe Final Friday Drum Circle
7–8:30 p.m. | Free | Old Cary Library Site

The gathering includes a community drum circle and a flow-arts performance by Caroleena & Friends.

Discover Dance: DISHOOM
7–10:30 p.m. | Free | Downtown Cary Park

Free Friday Concerts

Beer Garden Concert: The Hourglass Kids
6–9 p.m. | Free | The Glass Jug Beer Lab, RTP
Genre: Reggae rock

Live Music
6–9 p.m. | Free | Gizmo Brew Works, Raleigh

Performances at the Page: A Celebration of Bluegrass Featuring Redbud
6:30–9 p.m. | Free | Page-Walker Arts & History Center, Cary

Live @ ATC: Covered in Jam
6:30–9 p.m. | Free | American Tobacco Campus, Durham

Live Music: 2DIGH4
6:30–9:30 p.m. | Free | Oaklyn Springs Brewery, Fuquay-Varina

Bynum Front Porch Friday Night Music Series
7–8:30 p.m. | Free | Bynum Front Porch, Pittsboro

Live Music
7–9 p.m. | Free | Compass Rose Brewery, Raleigh

Live Music: Sam Trebling
7–10 p.m. | Free | Oaklyn Springs Taproom, Fuquay-Varina

Bounce and Brews DJ Night
7–9 p.m. | Free | Gizmo Brew Works, Durham

Live Music Fridays
7 p.m. | Free | Growler Grlz, Durham

Friday Live Music
8–11 p.m. | Free | Tap Yard, Raleigh

Friday Live Music
8–11 p.m. | Free | Yonder: Southern Cocktails & Brew, Hillsborough

Friday Night Entertainment

Dance with Raleigh International Folk Dancers
6:30–10 p.m. | Free | Glen Eden Pilot Park, Raleigh

Drag Bingo
7–9 p.m. | Free | The Glass Jug Downtown Durham Taproom

Comedy Hypnosis Fundraiser Show
7–10 p.m. | $10 | Bombshell Beer Company, Holly Springs

Storytelling Open Mic
7 p.m. | Free | Raleigh Brewing, Raleigh

Movie Night
7 p.m. | Free | Raleigh Brewing, Raleigh

Karaoke Bingo Night
7–11:55 p.m. | Free | KōMANA Brewing Company, Cary

Stand-Up Comedy Open Mic
8–11 p.m. | Free | Durty Bull Brewing Company, Durham

Movie Night at Pluck Farm
8:30 p.m. | Free | Steel String Brewery, Mebane

Pub Karaoke
10–11:59 p.m. | Free | West 94th Street Pub, Durham

Saturday, August 1, 2026

Saturday offers one of the weekend’s largest schedules, including free museum admission, markets, back-to-school events, historical tours, outdoor concerts and family movies.

Saturday Morning Events

Museums on Us at Marbles Kids Museum
All day | Free for eligible Bank of America customers and employees | Marbles Kids Museum, Raleigh

Eligible Bank of America cardholders and employees can receive free admission during the first full weekend of the month. Bring qualifying identification and confirm the program’s admission requirements before arriving.

Visit Cow Sanctuary
8 a.m.–noon | $0–$25 | Brajboro Cow Sanctuary, Chapel Hill

Cars and Coffee Morrisville
8–11 a.m. | Free | Imperial Center, Durham

Durham Craft Market
8 a.m.–noon | Free | Durham Central Park

Home Depot Kids Workshop: Rocket Game
9 a.m.–noon | Free | Participating Home Depot locations

Community Clothing and School-Supplies Giveaway
9 a.m.–1 p.m. | Free | Orange Grove Missionary Baptist Church, Durham

Wendell Baptist Church Community Day
9 a.m.–1 p.m. | Free | Wendell Baptist Church

The community event includes clothing, small-engine repair, a complimentary lunch and a children’s block party.

The Raleigh Market
9 a.m.–5 p.m. | Free admission | N.C. State Fairgrounds, Raleigh

Family and Educational Events

Mill Open House
10 a.m.–1 p.m. | Free | Historic Yates Mill County Park

Saturday Slowdown Market and Open Farm Day
10 a.m.–2 p.m. | Free | RambleRill Farm, Hillsborough

Back-to-School Community Resource Event
10 a.m.–2 p.m. | Free | Durham County Memorial Stadium

Back2School Bash
10 a.m.–2 p.m. | Free | New Hope Baptist Church, Raleigh

Raleigh Dream Center and Carolina Hurricanes defenseman Jaccob Slavin will help host a community event featuring free school supplies, rides and more. Parking is off-site, so attendees should review transportation instructions before leaving home.

Raleigh World of Hot Wheels
10 a.m.–5 p.m. | Free | Triangle Town Center, Raleigh

Día de la Ciencia y la Cultura
10 a.m.–5 p.m. | Free | North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences, Raleigh

This bilingual Day of Science and Culture program combines educational activities with cultural experiences.

Millbrook United Methodist Church Food Pantry
10 a.m.–noon | Free | Millbrook United Methodist Church, Raleigh

Open Farm at Sunrise Community Farm Center
10 a.m.–5 p.m. | $8 | Sunrise Community Farm Center, Chapel Hill

The Market at NCMA
11 a.m.–4 p.m. | Free | North Carolina Museum of Art, Raleigh

Retro Family Series: “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles”
11 a.m. | Free | Carolina Theatre, Durham

Grand Opening of Enso Movement
1:30–3:30 p.m. | Free | Enso Movement, Capital Boulevard, Raleigh

The new Raleigh parkour and acrobatics gym will celebrate its grand opening with a free community event.

Raleigh History Tours

Black History Walking Tour
10–11 a.m. | $6–$10 | Pope House, Raleigh

Historic Raleigh Trolley Tours
11 a.m.–3 p.m. | $6–$10 | Mordecai Historic Park, Raleigh

Four one-hour tours are scheduled during the day.

Free Guided Tours of the North Carolina State Capitol
Tours at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. | Free | North Carolina State Capitol, Raleigh

Saturday Afternoon Events

Reflections Tour for People with Memory Loss
2–3 p.m. | Free | Nasher Museum of Art, Durham

Carrboro Really Really Free Market
2–4 p.m. | Free | Carrboro Town Commons

Oops! All Clowns! Shakespeare!
2:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. | Free | Carrboro Town Commons

Live Music
3 p.m. | Free | Raleigh Brewing, Raleigh

Metalcore Night
4–9 p.m. | Free | Oaklyn Springs Brewery, Fuquay-Varina

Saturday Concerts and Nightlife

Live Music: Olive Branch Quartet
5 p.m. | $5 | Slim’s, Raleigh

Saturdays in Saxapahaw Outdoor Concert Series
5–8 p.m. | Free | Haw River Ballroom area, Saxapahaw

Live Music
5–8 p.m. | Free | Gizmo Brew Works, Raleigh

Live Music Saturdays
5–8 p.m. | Free | Gizmo Brew Works, Durham

Live Music: J Candeed
6–9 p.m. | Free | Durham Beer Garden

Live Music
6–9 p.m. | Free | Fortnight Brewing, Wake Forest

Live Music
6:30–9 p.m. | Free | Southern Peak Brewery, Apex

Rhythm & Reels Concert: Tre. Charles
7 p.m. | Free | Apex Nature Park

Live Music Saturdays
7–10 p.m. | Free | Bombshell Beer Company, Holly Springs

Family Movie Night: “Super Mario Galaxy Movie”
7:30 p.m. | Free | E. Carroll Joyner Park, Wake Forest

Sacred Grounds Coffeehouse Concert
7:30 p.m. | Free | Sacred Grounds Coffeehouse, Durham

2010 Throwback Party
8–11:59 p.m. | Free | Super Rad Retro Lounge Arcade Bar, Raleigh

Open Mic and Karaoke Night
8–11 p.m. | Free | Compass Rose Brewery, Raleigh

Saturday Live Music
8 p.m. | Free | Yonder: Southern Cocktails & Brew, Hillsborough

Movie Night at Pluck Farm
8:30 p.m. | Free | Steel String Brewery, Mebane

Sunday, August 2, 2026

Sunday closes the weekend with markets, cultural festivals, brunch music, community giveaways and outdoor concerts.

Sunday Morning Events

Museums on Us at Marbles Kids Museum
All day | Free for eligible Bank of America customers and employees | Marbles Kids Museum, Raleigh

Visit Cow Sanctuary
8 a.m.–noon | $0–$25 | Brajboro Cow Sanctuary, Chapel Hill

The Raleigh Market
9 a.m.–5 p.m. | Free admission | N.C. State Fairgrounds, Raleigh

Sunday Morning Yoga
10–11 a.m. | Free | Compass Rose Brewery, Raleigh

Mill Open House
10 a.m.–1 p.m. | Free | Historic Yates Mill County Park

Pop-Up ARTernative Market
10 a.m.–3 p.m. | Free | Chapel of Bones Coffee, Raleigh

Raleigh World of Hot Wheels
10 a.m.–5 p.m. | Free | Triangle Town Center, Raleigh

Sunday Brunch Music
11 a.m.–1 p.m. | Free | Weaver Street Market, Carrboro

Sunday Festivals and Markets

Durham Fiesta Latina
Noon–4 p.m. | Free | Durham Central Park

Durham Fiesta Latina brings music, culture and community activities to Durham Central Park.

Fifth Annual Kids Fest
Noon–5 p.m. | Free | Fortnight Brewing, Cary

Okra Jamboree
Noon–6 p.m. | Free | The Plant, Pittsboro

Cary Underground Market: Bands and Vendors
Noon–4 p.m. | Free | Bond Brothers Beer Company, Cary

Morgan Street Sessions
Noon–4 p.m. | Free | Morgan Street Food Hall, Raleigh

Catalog Cupping
1–2 p.m. | Free | Counter Culture Coffee Headquarters and Training Center, Durham

Taste selections from Counter Culture Coffee’s current menu during this guided cupping.

Kanikapila Ukulele Meetup
1–3 p.m. | Free | KōMANA Brewing Company, Cary

Black Farmers’ Market
1–4 p.m. | Free | Durham Technical Community College, Main Campus

Free Air-Hockey Tournament
1 p.m. | Free | Super Rad Retro Lounge Arcade Bar, Raleigh

Sunday Afternoon and Evening Events

Bricks & Minifigs Event
3–5 p.m. | $10 | Ment Beverage Co., Durham

Admission includes a minifigure and beverage.

Back-to-School Bookbag Giveaway
3–6 p.m. | Free | Worthdale Park and Community Center, Raleigh

Craft Club and Supply Swap
3–5 p.m. | Free | The Glass Jug Downtown Durham Taproom

Open Mic Night
3–6 p.m. | Free | Gizmo Brew Works, Raleigh

Bluegrass Open Jam
4–7 p.m. | Free | Bond Brothers Eastside, Cary

Raleigh Concert Series: Holly Springs Community Band
6–8 p.m. | Free | Fred Fletcher Park, Raleigh

Open Mic Night
6–9 p.m. | Free | Clouds Brewing Taproom, Raleigh

Sundays at Sundown Live Music
7–9 p.m. | Free | Southern Village, Chapel Hill

Live Music: Loser
8 p.m. | $5 | Slim’s, Raleigh

Top Weekend Picks

With so many choices, these events stand out for their combination of value, atmosphere and broad appeal:

• Friday: Hillsborough Last Fridays, Final Friday Cary Art Loop and Discover Dance at Downtown Cary Park
• Saturday: Día de la Ciencia y la Cultura, Raleigh World of Hot Wheels, The Market at NCMA and Rhythm & Reels
• Sunday: Durham Fiesta Latina, Okra Jamboree, Morgan Street Sessions and the Raleigh Concert Series at Fred Fletcher Park

Free Things to Do in the Triangle This Weekend

The overwhelming majority of this weekend’s listed events are free. Families can find complimentary school supplies, museum programs, movies, concerts, cultural festivals and markets throughout the region.

Some of the best free options include:

• Home Depot Kids Workshop
• Raleigh World of Hot Wheels
• North Carolina State Capitol tours
• Día de la Ciencia y la Cultura
• Durham Fiesta Latina
• Final Friday Cary Art Loop
• Hillsborough Last Fridays
• The Market at NCMA
• Back-to-school giveaways
• Raleigh Concert Series
• Numerous brewery concerts and open-mic events

Before You Go

Event schedules, admission policies and weather-related plans can change. Confirm details with the organizer before traveling, particularly for outdoor concerts, movies and programs with limited capacity.

Arrive early for school-supply giveaways and free family events. For outdoor activities, bring water, sunscreen, insect repellent and seating when permitted.

Follow DoRaleigh.com for everything Raleigh.

Connect With Us: Instagram | Facebook | BSky | Linkedin

Share With Us: Post your community News, Events, on our Submissions Page.

Advertise With Us: Interested in Advertising click here.

Published by Bryan Tomlinson | BTDesigns.pro |

Triangle Event Guide Weekend Edition July 31–August 2nd

The first weekend of August brings free concerts, community festivals, art walks, outdoor movies, back-to-school giveaways and family activities to Raleigh, Durham, Cary and communities across the Triangle.

The Triangle Weekend Event Guide for July 31–August 2, 2026, includes Final Friday celebrations in Cary and Hillsborough, Durham Fiesta Latina, Raleigh World of Hot Wheels, museum programs, farmers markets and dozens of free live-music events.

Here is your DoRaleigh guide to what’s happening around the Triangle this weekend.

Friday, July 31, 2026

All-Day Deal

Baskin-Robbins: 31% Off Scoops
All day | Discounted | Participating Baskin-Robbins locations

Celebrate the final day of July with 31% off scoops at participating Baskin-Robbins locations.

Daytime Events

Tasting at Ten
10 a.m. | Free | Counter Culture Coffee Headquarters and Training Center, Durham

Start Friday with a complimentary coffee tasting and learn more about Counter Culture’s current selections.

JoCo Block Party
3–5 p.m. | Free | Johnston County Visitors Bureau

Friday Art, Markets and Community Events

Free Wine Tastings
4:30–6:30 p.m. | Free | Bottle Theory, Apex

Last Fridays Makers Market
5:30–8:30 p.m. | Free | Old Courthouse, Hillsborough

Hillsborough Arts Council’s Live on the Lawn
5:30–8:30 p.m. | Free | Hillsborough

Last Fridays Art Walk
5:30–9 p.m. | Free | Downtown Hillsborough

Downtown Hillsborough offers an entire evening of art, shopping and entertainment, with a makers market, outdoor performances and galleries participating in the monthly Art Walk.

Hillsborough Gallery of Arts: “Intertwined” Opening Reception
6–9 p.m. | Free | Hillsborough Gallery of Arts

Final Friday Cary Art Loop
6–9 p.m. | Free | Downtown Cary

Splash Bash
6–8:30 p.m. | Free | Pleasant Park, Apex

Families can enjoy extended splash-pad hours, outdoor games and food trucks.

Front Porch Friday at Haven Farm
6–10 p.m. | Free | Haven Farm, Knightdale

One Tribe Final Friday Drum Circle
7–8:30 p.m. | Free | Old Cary Library Site

The gathering includes a community drum circle and a flow-arts performance by Caroleena & Friends.

Discover Dance: DISHOOM
7–10:30 p.m. | Free | Downtown Cary Park

Free Friday Concerts

Beer Garden Concert: The Hourglass Kids
6–9 p.m. | Free | The Glass Jug Beer Lab, RTP
Genre: Reggae rock

Live Music
6–9 p.m. | Free | Gizmo Brew Works, Raleigh

Performances at the Page: A Celebration of Bluegrass Featuring Redbud
6:30–9 p.m. | Free | Page-Walker Arts & History Center, Cary

Live @ ATC: Covered in Jam
6:30–9 p.m. | Free | American Tobacco Campus, Durham

Live Music: 2DIGH4
6:30–9:30 p.m. | Free | Oaklyn Springs Brewery, Fuquay-Varina

Bynum Front Porch Friday Night Music Series
7–8:30 p.m. | Free | Bynum Front Porch, Pittsboro

Live Music
7–9 p.m. | Free | Compass Rose Brewery, Raleigh

Live Music: Sam Trebling
7–10 p.m. | Free | Oaklyn Springs Taproom, Fuquay-Varina

Bounce and Brews DJ Night
7–9 p.m. | Free | Gizmo Brew Works, Durham

Live Music Fridays
7 p.m. | Free | Growler Grlz, Durham

Friday Live Music
8–11 p.m. | Free | Tap Yard, Raleigh

Friday Live Music
8–11 p.m. | Free | Yonder: Southern Cocktails & Brew, Hillsborough

Friday Night Entertainment

Dance with Raleigh International Folk Dancers
6:30–10 p.m. | Free | Glen Eden Pilot Park, Raleigh

Drag Bingo
7–9 p.m. | Free | The Glass Jug Downtown Durham Taproom

Comedy Hypnosis Fundraiser Show
7–10 p.m. | $10 | Bombshell Beer Company, Holly Springs

Storytelling Open Mic
7 p.m. | Free | Raleigh Brewing, Raleigh

Movie Night
7 p.m. | Free | Raleigh Brewing, Raleigh

Karaoke Bingo Night
7–11:55 p.m. | Free | KōMANA Brewing Company, Cary

Stand-Up Comedy Open Mic
8–11 p.m. | Free | Durty Bull Brewing Company, Durham

Movie Night at Pluck Farm
8:30 p.m. | Free | Steel String Brewery, Mebane

Pub Karaoke
10–11:59 p.m. | Free | West 94th Street Pub, Durham

Saturday, August 1, 2026

Saturday offers one of the weekend’s largest schedules, including free museum admission, markets, back-to-school events, historical tours, outdoor concerts and family movies.

Saturday Morning Events

Museums on Us at Marbles Kids Museum
All day | Free for eligible Bank of America customers and employees | Marbles Kids Museum, Raleigh

Eligible Bank of America cardholders and employees can receive free admission during the first full weekend of the month. Bring qualifying identification and confirm the program’s admission requirements before arriving.

Visit Cow Sanctuary
8 a.m.–noon | $0–$25 | Brajboro Cow Sanctuary, Chapel Hill

Cars and Coffee Morrisville
8–11 a.m. | Free | Imperial Center, Durham

Durham Craft Market
8 a.m.–noon | Free | Durham Central Park

Home Depot Kids Workshop: Rocket Game
9 a.m.–noon | Free | Participating Home Depot locations

Community Clothing and School-Supplies Giveaway
9 a.m.–1 p.m. | Free | Orange Grove Missionary Baptist Church, Durham

Wendell Baptist Church Community Day
9 a.m.–1 p.m. | Free | Wendell Baptist Church

The community event includes clothing, small-engine repair, a complimentary lunch and a children’s block party.

The Raleigh Market
9 a.m.–5 p.m. | Free admission | N.C. State Fairgrounds, Raleigh

Family and Educational Events

Mill Open House
10 a.m.–1 p.m. | Free | Historic Yates Mill County Park

Saturday Slowdown Market and Open Farm Day
10 a.m.–2 p.m. | Free | RambleRill Farm, Hillsborough

Back-to-School Community Resource Event
10 a.m.–2 p.m. | Free | Durham County Memorial Stadium

Back2School Bash
10 a.m.–2 p.m. | Free | New Hope Baptist Church, Raleigh

Raleigh Dream Center and Carolina Hurricanes defenseman Jaccob Slavin will help host a community event featuring free school supplies, rides and more. Parking is off-site, so attendees should review transportation instructions before leaving home.

Raleigh World of Hot Wheels
10 a.m.–5 p.m. | Free | Triangle Town Center, Raleigh

Día de la Ciencia y la Cultura
10 a.m.–5 p.m. | Free | North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences, Raleigh

This bilingual Day of Science and Culture program combines educational activities with cultural experiences.

Millbrook United Methodist Church Food Pantry
10 a.m.–noon | Free | Millbrook United Methodist Church, Raleigh

Open Farm at Sunrise Community Farm Center
10 a.m.–5 p.m. | $8 | Sunrise Community Farm Center, Chapel Hill

The Market at NCMA
11 a.m.–4 p.m. | Free | North Carolina Museum of Art, Raleigh

Retro Family Series: “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles”
11 a.m. | Free | Carolina Theatre, Durham

Grand Opening of Enso Movement
1:30–3:30 p.m. | Free | Enso Movement, Capital Boulevard, Raleigh

The new Raleigh parkour and acrobatics gym will celebrate its grand opening with a free community event.

Raleigh History Tours

Black History Walking Tour
10–11 a.m. | $6–$10 | Pope House, Raleigh

Historic Raleigh Trolley Tours
11 a.m.–3 p.m. | $6–$10 | Mordecai Historic Park, Raleigh

Four one-hour tours are scheduled during the day.

Free Guided Tours of the North Carolina State Capitol
Tours at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. | Free | North Carolina State Capitol, Raleigh

Saturday Afternoon Events

Reflections Tour for People with Memory Loss
2–3 p.m. | Free | Nasher Museum of Art, Durham

Carrboro Really Really Free Market
2–4 p.m. | Free | Carrboro Town Commons

Oops! All Clowns! Shakespeare!
2:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. | Free | Carrboro Town Commons

Live Music
3 p.m. | Free | Raleigh Brewing, Raleigh

Metalcore Night
4–9 p.m. | Free | Oaklyn Springs Brewery, Fuquay-Varina

Saturday Concerts and Nightlife

Live Music: Olive Branch Quartet
5 p.m. | $5 | Slim’s, Raleigh

Saturdays in Saxapahaw Outdoor Concert Series
5–8 p.m. | Free | Haw River Ballroom area, Saxapahaw

Live Music
5–8 p.m. | Free | Gizmo Brew Works, Raleigh

Live Music Saturdays
5–8 p.m. | Free | Gizmo Brew Works, Durham

Live Music: J Candeed
6–9 p.m. | Free | Durham Beer Garden

Live Music
6–9 p.m. | Free | Fortnight Brewing, Wake Forest

Live Music
6:30–9 p.m. | Free | Southern Peak Brewery, Apex

Rhythm & Reels Concert: Tre. Charles
7 p.m. | Free | Apex Nature Park

Live Music Saturdays
7–10 p.m. | Free | Bombshell Beer Company, Holly Springs

Family Movie Night: “Super Mario Galaxy Movie”
7:30 p.m. | Free | E. Carroll Joyner Park, Wake Forest

Sacred Grounds Coffeehouse Concert
7:30 p.m. | Free | Sacred Grounds Coffeehouse, Durham

2010 Throwback Party
8–11:59 p.m. | Free | Super Rad Retro Lounge Arcade Bar, Raleigh

Open Mic and Karaoke Night
8–11 p.m. | Free | Compass Rose Brewery, Raleigh

Saturday Live Music
8 p.m. | Free | Yonder: Southern Cocktails & Brew, Hillsborough

Movie Night at Pluck Farm
8:30 p.m. | Free | Steel String Brewery, Mebane

Sunday, August 2, 2026

Sunday closes the weekend with markets, cultural festivals, brunch music, community giveaways and outdoor concerts.

Sunday Morning Events

Museums on Us at Marbles Kids Museum
All day | Free for eligible Bank of America customers and employees | Marbles Kids Museum, Raleigh

Visit Cow Sanctuary
8 a.m.–noon | $0–$25 | Brajboro Cow Sanctuary, Chapel Hill

The Raleigh Market
9 a.m.–5 p.m. | Free admission | N.C. State Fairgrounds, Raleigh

Sunday Morning Yoga
10–11 a.m. | Free | Compass Rose Brewery, Raleigh

Mill Open House
10 a.m.–1 p.m. | Free | Historic Yates Mill County Park

Pop-Up ARTernative Market
10 a.m.–3 p.m. | Free | Chapel of Bones Coffee, Raleigh

Raleigh World of Hot Wheels
10 a.m.–5 p.m. | Free | Triangle Town Center, Raleigh

Sunday Brunch Music
11 a.m.–1 p.m. | Free | Weaver Street Market, Carrboro

Sunday Festivals and Markets

Durham Fiesta Latina
Noon–4 p.m. | Free | Durham Central Park

Durham Fiesta Latina brings music, culture and community activities to Durham Central Park.

Fifth Annual Kids Fest
Noon–5 p.m. | Free | Fortnight Brewing, Cary

Okra Jamboree
Noon–6 p.m. | Free | The Plant, Pittsboro

Cary Underground Market: Bands and Vendors
Noon–4 p.m. | Free | Bond Brothers Beer Company, Cary

Morgan Street Sessions
Noon–4 p.m. | Free | Morgan Street Food Hall, Raleigh

Catalog Cupping
1–2 p.m. | Free | Counter Culture Coffee Headquarters and Training Center, Durham

Taste selections from Counter Culture Coffee’s current menu during this guided cupping.

Kanikapila Ukulele Meetup
1–3 p.m. | Free | KōMANA Brewing Company, Cary

Black Farmers’ Market
1–4 p.m. | Free | Durham Technical Community College, Main Campus

Free Air-Hockey Tournament
1 p.m. | Free | Super Rad Retro Lounge Arcade Bar, Raleigh

Sunday Afternoon and Evening Events

Bricks & Minifigs Event
3–5 p.m. | $10 | Ment Beverage Co., Durham

Admission includes a minifigure and beverage.

Back-to-School Bookbag Giveaway
3–6 p.m. | Free | Worthdale Park and Community Center, Raleigh

Craft Club and Supply Swap
3–5 p.m. | Free | The Glass Jug Downtown Durham Taproom

Open Mic Night
3–6 p.m. | Free | Gizmo Brew Works, Raleigh

Bluegrass Open Jam
4–7 p.m. | Free | Bond Brothers Eastside, Cary

Raleigh Concert Series: Holly Springs Community Band
6–8 p.m. | Free | Fred Fletcher Park, Raleigh

Open Mic Night
6–9 p.m. | Free | Clouds Brewing Taproom, Raleigh

Sundays at Sundown Live Music
7–9 p.m. | Free | Southern Village, Chapel Hill

Live Music: Loser
8 p.m. | $5 | Slim’s, Raleigh

Top Weekend Picks

With so many choices, these events stand out for their combination of value, atmosphere and broad appeal:

• Friday: Hillsborough Last Fridays, Final Friday Cary Art Loop and Discover Dance at Downtown Cary Park
• Saturday: Día de la Ciencia y la Cultura, Raleigh World of Hot Wheels, The Market at NCMA and Rhythm & Reels
• Sunday: Durham Fiesta Latina, Okra Jamboree, Morgan Street Sessions and the Raleigh Concert Series at Fred Fletcher Park

Free Things to Do in the Triangle This Weekend

The overwhelming majority of this weekend’s listed events are free. Families can find complimentary school supplies, museum programs, movies, concerts, cultural festivals and markets throughout the region.

Some of the best free options include:

• Home Depot Kids Workshop
• Raleigh World of Hot Wheels
• North Carolina State Capitol tours
• Día de la Ciencia y la Cultura
• Durham Fiesta Latina
• Final Friday Cary Art Loop
• Hillsborough Last Fridays
• The Market at NCMA
• Back-to-school giveaways
• Raleigh Concert Series
• Numerous brewery concerts and open-mic events

Before You Go

Event schedules, admission policies and weather-related plans can change. Confirm details with the organizer before traveling, particularly for outdoor concerts, movies and programs with limited capacity.

Arrive early for school-supply giveaways and free family events. For outdoor activities, bring water, sunscreen, insect repellent and seating when permitted.

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Published by Bryan Tomlinson | BTDesigns.pro |

Back to school with DoWEA Europe: Events 2026

For families stationed in Europe, here are the various events happening near you for the DoWEA community. (Gorodenkoff…
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https://www.europesays.com/europe/101721/