#raleigh-weekend-events — Public Fediverse posts

Downtown Raleigh Weekend Events Guide October 16–18, 2026 Edition

Comedy shows, ghost tours, live music and family activities fill downtown Raleigh’s calendar this weekend. From October 16–18, 2026, residents and visitors can enjoy North Carolina Symphony performances of Rhapsody in Blue, Halloween outings, art experiences and late-night entertainment.

Highlights include Pets and Pumpkins at Moore Square, FRESH Family Day at Artspace, CatVideoFest at Marbles IMAX, and multiple OCCF 2026 comedy showcases.

Schedules are based on the supplied listings. Confirm tickets, reservations, age restrictions and event details with organizers. Events ending after midnight continue into the following day.

Friday, October 16

Explore Downtown Art, History and Food

Start the weekend with a museum visit, a food tour or an afternoon exploring Raleigh’s history.

• The Park with a City in It: Celebrating 50 Years of the Raleigh Greenway System: 9 a.m.–4 p.m., City of Raleigh Museum.
• Quiet Company: Paintings and Linocuts by Will South: 11 a.m.–5 p.m., Gallery C.
• Friday Favorites: Rhapsody in Blue with the North Carolina Symphony: Noon; confirm the performance venue with the Symphony.
• A Taste of Downtown Raleigh Food Tours: 12:45 p.m., City of Raleigh Museum.
• Downtown Raleigh Historian-Guided Tour: 3 p.m., Jimmy V’s Osteria + Bar.

Friday Comedy and Theatre

OCCF 2026 brings evening comedy to downtown venues, while Burning Coal Theatre Company presents Travesties.

• Cosmic Chuckles | OCCF 2026: 7:30–9 p.m., Flying Saucer Draught Emporium.
• Travesties: 7:30 p.m., Burning Coal Theatre Company.
• Rebellion Comedy | OCCF 2026: 8:30–10 p.m., Rebellion Media.

Ghost Tours and Haunted Adventures

• Spirits & Spirits: Haunted Cocktail Rydables Tour: 5–7 p.m. and 7–9 p.m., Raleigh Rydables.
• Sip n’ Stroll Raleigh Ghost Tour: 7–8:15 p.m., Raleigh Walking Tours.
• Haunted Trolley Tours: 7–10 p.m., Mordecai Historic Park; confirm individual departures.

Friday Music and Nightlife

• Raleigh Song Circle: 6:45–8 p.m., Current Wellness.
• Open Mic Night at TBL Cafe: 7–9 p.m., The Bike Library.
• Crank Karaoke: 8–11 p.m., Crank Arm Brewing.
• Garden Grooves: 8–11 p.m., Botanical Lounge.
• Rhapsody in Blue with the North Carolina Symphony: 8 p.m.; confirm the venue.
• Grocery Boy Jr & Buzzard Company: 8:30–10:30 p.m., Slim’s Downtown.
• Signature Fridays featuring DJ Drop: 9 p.m.–1 a.m., Haymaker.
• Late Nights at Neptunes: 10 p.m.–2 a.m., Neptunes Parlour.

Saturday, October 17

Family Activities and Halloween Fun

Pets and Pumpkins: Celebrating Moore Square’s New Dog Park
11 a.m.–3 p.m. | Moore Square

This seasonal gathering celebrates Moore Square’s new dog park and is a featured Saturday destination.

FRESH Family Day
11 a.m.–3 p.m. | Artspace

Add Artspace to the itinerary for a family outing downtown.

CatVideoFest
2 p.m. | Marbles IMAX Theater

Enjoy feline-focused entertainment on the big screen. Another showing is listed Sunday at 2 p.m.

Downtown Raleigh Halloween Treasure Hunt
2–3 p.m. | Atlantic Union Bank Convention Center

This walking team scavenger hunt offers a Halloween-themed afternoon activity. A Sunday session is also listed.

Patio Pumpkin Painting Party
3–7 p.m. | Boxcar Bar and Arcade

Celebrate fall with pumpkin painting. Confirm participation details and age policies with the venue.

Saturday Wellness and Walking Tours

• Pilates Mat Class: 9:30–10:15 a.m., Heights Pilates.
• Historic Oakwood Walking Tour: 10:30 a.m.–12:15 p.m., Raleigh Walking Tours.
• Puppy Yoga, Parent/Child Class: 10:30–11:30 a.m., Cirque de Vol Studios.
• Puppy Yoga, Adult Class: 11:45 a.m.–12:45 p.m., Cirque de Vol Studios.

Food, Art and Creative Experiences

• The Park with a City in It: 9 a.m.–4 p.m., City of Raleigh Museum.
• Quiet Company: 11 a.m.–5 p.m., Gallery C.
• National Whole Hog Barbecue Day: 1 p.m., The Pit.
• A Taste of Downtown Raleigh Food Tours: 2:30 p.m., City of Raleigh Museum.
• Good Day Good Night Fall Favorites: 3 p.m., Good Day Good Night.
• Veloce Italian Market Pizza Class: 6–8 p.m., Veloce Italian Market.
• Time Warp: Bringing Back the Funk & Groove of the 1970s: City of Raleigh Museum; listed as 6:30–11, with the a.m./p.m. designation requiring confirmation.

Saturday Comedy Shows

• Triangle Roast Battle: 7–8:30 p.m., Transfer Co. Ballroom.
• Comedy Loft at The Davie | OCCF 2026: 7:30–9 p.m., The Davie.
• Cosmic Chuckles | OCCF 2026: 8–9:30 p.m., Flying Saucer Draught Emporium.
• Out Loud Comedy | OCCF 2026: 8–9:30 p.m., LGBT Center of Raleigh.
• Rebellion Comedy | OCCF 2026: 9–10 p.m., Rebellion Media.
• Certified Fresh: A Comedy Benefit: Artspace; confirm the start time.

Saturday Ghost Tours

• Sip n’ Stroll Raleigh Ghost Tour: 4:45–6 p.m. and 7–8:15 p.m.
• Spirits & Spirits: Haunted Cocktail Rydables Tour: 5–7 p.m. and 7–9 p.m.
• Haunted Trolley Tours: 7–10 p.m., Mordecai Historic Park; confirm departures.

Saturday Music, Theatre and Nightlife

• Tanner Hunt: 3–5 p.m., Slim’s Downtown.
• Travesties: 7:30 p.m., Burning Coal Theatre Company.
• Rhapsody in Blue with the North Carolina Symphony: 8 p.m.; confirm the venue.
• The Sweet Potatoes: 8–11 p.m., Slim’s Downtown.
• SNL at Killjoy with DJ Deluxe and Knu Element Entertainment: 9 p.m.–1 a.m., Killjoy.
• Late Nights at Neptunes: 10 p.m.–2 a.m., Neptunes Parlour.
• Cozy Saturday featuring DJ JMar — The Wizard: Haymaker; confirm the start time.

Sunday, October 18

Sunday Morning and Afternoon

Ease into Sunday with a run, a market visit, a performance or a history tour.

• Sunday Run Club: 9–10:30 a.m., The Bike Library.
• Day Course in Mindfulness: Current Wellness; listed as 11:30–4:30 p.m. Confirm the start-time designation.
• Halloween Tattoo Flash Day: 11:30 a.m.–6 p.m., Pinky Swear Tattoo.
• Preparing for Fall: Noon–1:30 p.m., Copperline Plant Co.
• Morgan Street Sessions: Noon–4 p.m., Morgan Street Food Hall.
• Rise n’ Grind: DJs and Market on the Videri Patio: Noon–4 p.m., Videri Chocolate Factory.
• Free Air Hockey Tournament: 1 p.m., Super Rad Retro Lounge.
• CatVideoFest: 2 p.m., Marbles IMAX Theater.
• Downtown Raleigh Halloween Treasure Hunt: 2–3 p.m., Atlantic Union Bank Convention Center.
• Travesties: 2 p.m., Burning Coal Theatre Company.
• Megayacht: 3–5 p.m., Slim’s Downtown.
• Raleigh African American History Tour: 4–5 p.m., Jimmy V’s Osteria + Bar.

Sunday Evening Entertainment

Old Fashioned Week Closing
4–11 p.m. | 10th & Terrace

Sunday is the final listed day of Old Fashioned Week.

Michael Blaustein: The Taste Me Tour — The Final Leg
7 p.m. | Meymandi Concert Hall at Martin Marietta Center

The touring comedy show joins Sunday’s entertainment lineup.

Good Times at Raleigh Times | OCCF 2026
8–9:30 p.m. | The Raleigh Times Bar

Catch another OCCF 2026 showcase before the weekend ends.

Emo Karaoke
8 p.m.–midnight | Neptunes Parlour

Bring the weekend to a musical finish at Neptunes.

Stephen’s Pharmacy with Richard Bacchus
9–11 p.m. | Slim’s Downtown

Slim’s hosts a late Sunday music option.

Sunday ghost outings include Sip n’ Stroll from 5–6:15 p.m. and Spirits & Spirits Rydables tours from 5–7 p.m. and 7–9 p.m.

Plan Your Downtown Raleigh Weekend

Choose a few priorities from the overlapping performances and activities, confirm booking requirements, and allow time for parking and travel between venues.

Follow DoRaleigh.com for daily updates on government meetings, local festivals, and community happenings — your one-stop guide to everything Raleigh!

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Downtown Raleigh Weekend Event Guide October 9–11, 2026

Looking for things to do in downtown Raleigh this weekend? October 9–11, 2026, brings ghost tours, live music, theater, creative workshops, markets and late-night entertainment. The Downtown Raleigh Weekend Event Guide includes Nightmare Weekend Raleigh, performances of Travesties, Korktoberfest activities and opportunities to explore local history.

Plan an afternoon of art and food, an evening of music or a Halloween-themed outing with the daily listings below. Admission prices, ticket availability and registration requirements were not supplied for most events. Confirm details directly with each venue or organizer before attending.

Downtown Raleigh Weekend Highlights

● Halloween outings: Nightmare Weekend Raleigh, haunted walking tours, Haunted Cocktail Rydables tours and Sunday’s Halloween treasure hunt.

● Live entertainment: LOL Raleigh, Edith Marquez, Travesties and performances at Slim’s Downtown.

● Creative activities: Pottery painting, fiber drawing and candle making.

● Markets and seasonal celebrations: October Market on the Videri Patio and the Korktoberfest Day Party.

● Local history: Historian-guided and African American history tours, plus an exhibition celebrating 50 years of Raleigh’s greenway system.

Friday, October 9, 2026

Daytime Art, History and Food

● The Park with a City in It: Celebrating 50 Years of the Raleigh Greenway System — 9 a.m.–4 p.m., City of Raleigh Museum.

● Quiet Company: Paintings and Linocuts by Will South — 11 a.m.–5 p.m., Gallery C. Listed regular hours are Tuesday–Saturday.

● A Taste of Downtown Raleigh Food Tours — 12:45 p.m., City of Raleigh Museum.

● Downtown Raleigh Historian-Guided Tour — 3 p.m., Jimmy V’s Osteria + Bar.

● Opening: Old Fashioned Week at 10th & Terrace — 4–11 p.m., 10th & Terrace.

Evening Workshops, Theater and Ghost Tours

● Spirits & Spirits: Haunted Cocktail Rydables Tour — 5–7 p.m. and 7–9 p.m., Raleigh Rydables.

● Pottery Painting with Cozy Panda at TBL Cafe — 7–8:30 p.m., The Bike Library.

● Sip n’ Stroll Raleigh Ghost Tour — 7–8:15 p.m., Raleigh Walking Tours.

● Travesties — 7:30 p.m., Burning Coal Theatre Company.

Music, Comedy and Nightlife

● Crank Karaoke @ Crank Arm Brewing — 8–11 p.m., Crank Arm Brewing.

● Garden Grooves — 8–11 p.m., Botanical Lounge.

● LOL Raleigh — 8 p.m., Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts.

● Nightmare Weekend Welcome Party — 8 p.m.–2 a.m., Boxcar Bar and Arcade.

● The Veldt at Slim’s — 8–10 p.m., Slim’s Downtown.

● Signature Fridays Featuring DJ Drop — 9 p.m.–1 a.m., Haymaker.

● Late Nights at Neptunes! — 10 p.m.–2 a.m., Neptunes Parlour.

Friday offers options from afternoon history tours to late-night music. Pair a daytime museum or gallery visit with pottery painting, theater or a ghost tour before exploring the evening entertainment.

Saturday, October 10, 2026

Morning Activities and Afternoon Discoveries

● Pilates Mat Class — 9:30–10:15 a.m., Heights Pilates.

● The Park with a City in It: Celebrating 50 Years of the Raleigh Greenway System — 9 a.m.–4 p.m., City of Raleigh Museum.

● Fletcher Field Day — 10 a.m.–2 p.m., Fred Fletcher Park.

● October Market on the Videri Patio — 10 a.m.–2 p.m., Videri Chocolate Factory.

● Roots of Discovery: Sands of Knowledge — 10:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m., North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences.

● Quiet Company: Paintings and Linocuts by Will South — 11 a.m.–5 p.m., Gallery C.

● Fiber Drawing with Linette Knight — 1–5 p.m., Artspace.

● Korktoberfest Day Party — 1–7 p.m., The Raleigh Wine Shop.

● Loon and Crow — 2–4 p.m., Slim’s Downtown.

● A Taste of Downtown Raleigh Food Tours — 2:30 p.m., City of Raleigh Museum.

Halloween Events and Theater

● Nightmare Weekend Raleigh — Atlantic Union Bank Convention Center. Event hours were not supplied; confirm the convention schedule.

● Haunted History Tour — 4:45–6 p.m., Raleigh Walking Tours.

● Spirits & Spirits: Haunted Cocktail Rydables Tour — 5–7 p.m. and 7–9 p.m., Raleigh Rydables.

● Sip n’ Stroll Raleigh Ghost Tour — 7–8:15 p.m., Raleigh Walking Tours.

● Travesties — 7:30 p.m., Burning Coal Theatre Company.

● Nightmare Weekend Welcome Party — 8 p.m.–2 a.m., Boxcar Bar and Arcade.

Concerts and Late-Night Entertainment

● CARNIBOYS: SAINT’S HOMECOMING — 8 p.m.–midnight, Kings.

● Edith Marquez — 8 p.m., Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts.

● Cozy Saturday Featuring DJ JMar – The Wizard — Haymaker. Start time was not supplied.

● Puddled, Dave Bender Rebellion, and David Prather — 9–11 p.m., Slim’s Downtown.

● SNL at Killjoy with DJ Deluxe and Knu Element Entertainment — 9 p.m.–1 a.m., Killjoy.

● Late Nights at Neptunes! — 10 p.m.–2 a.m., Neptunes Parlour.

Saturday’s calendar combines outdoor activities, shopping, creative workshops and Halloween outings. Check workshop registration and tour availability in advance, especially when planning multiple stops.

Sunday, October 11, 2026

Morning and Early Afternoon

● Sunday Run Club — 9–10:30 a.m., The Bike Library.

● The Park with a City in It: Celebrating 50 Years of the Raleigh Greenway System — Listed as 9 a.m.–4 p.m., City of Raleigh Museum. Confirm Sunday opening hours before visiting.

● Author Meet & Book Signing with Cassie Swindon — 11 a.m., 10th & Terrace.

● Morgan Street Sessions — Noon–4 p.m., Morgan Street Food Hall.

● FREE Air Hockey Tournament — 1 p.m., Super Rad Retro Lounge.

● Downtown Raleigh Halloween Treasure Hunt – Walking Team Scavenger Hunt! — 2–3 p.m., Atlantic Union Bank Convention Center.

● Jazz Sundays with Workbook — 2–5 p.m., Incendiary Brewing Taproom.

● Travesties — 2 p.m., Burning Coal Theatre Company.

Afternoon Workshops, History and Music

● Candle Making with Usu Company Candles — 3–5 p.m., Copperline Plant Co.

● Trey Everette — 3–5 p.m., Slim’s Downtown.

● Raleigh African American History Tour — 4–5 p.m., Jimmy V’s Osteria + Bar.

● Sip n’ Stroll Raleigh Ghost Tour — 5–6:15 p.m., Raleigh Walking Tours.

● Spirits & Spirits: Haunted Cocktail Rydables Tour — 5–7 p.m. and 7–9 p.m., Raleigh Rydables.

● The Soundtrack of Our Lives – A Smooth & Sexy Sunday Celebration — 5–9 p.m., Element Gastropub.

● CARNIBOYS: SAINT’S HOMECOMING — 8 p.m.–midnight, Kings, according to the supplied Sunday listing. Confirm this date with the venue.

● Over and Over — 8–10 p.m., Slim’s Downtown.

Additional Sunday Listings

● Nightmare Weekend Raleigh — Atlantic Union Bank Convention Center. Confirm Sunday hours with the organizer.

● Closing: 16th Annual Korktoberfest Sale & Fundraiser — The Raleigh Wine Shop. Closing-day hours were not supplied.

Gallery schedule note: Quiet Company was also included in the supplied Sunday list, but its stated regular hours are Tuesday–Saturday, 11 a.m.–5 p.m. Sunday access is not confirmed; contact Gallery C before planning a visit.

Plan Your Downtown Raleigh Weekend

For a Halloween-focused outing, compare Nightmare Weekend Raleigh with the walking ghost tours, Haunted Cocktail Rydables tours and Sunday’s treasure hunt. For arts and culture, consider Gallery C on Friday or Saturday, Artspace’s fiber drawing workshop or a performance of Travesties.

Sunday offers a mix of a run club, jazz, candle making, local history and evening music. Check addresses, ticket requirements, age restrictions, accessibility and weather updates with organizers. Listings ending after midnight continue into the following calendar day.

Follow DoRaleigh.com for daily updates on government meetings, local festivals, and community happenings — your one-stop guide to everything Raleigh!

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Published by Bryan Tomlinson

SEO Optimization and Marketing by BTDesigns.pro 

City of Raleigh Government Guide Weekend Edition October 9–11, 2026

Raleigh’s weekend calendar offers opportunities to connect with the community, get active, seek technology advice and enjoy theater. The City of Raleigh Government Weekend Guide for October 9–11, 2026, highlights five events happening Friday through Sunday.

From Coffee and Conversations to The Many Adventures of Peter Rabbit, here’s what residents can add to their weekend plans.

Friday, October 9, 2026

Coffee and Conversations – Connecting in your Community

Start time: 9 a.m.
Category: Community Engagement

Start Friday with Coffee and Conversations – Connecting in your Community. This community engagement event offers residents an opportunity to make local connections part of their weekend.

Check the official event listing for the location and participation details.

Saturday, October 10, 2026

Fitness with Firefighters

Start time: 11 a.m.
Category: Community and Workshops

Fitness with Firefighters brings a fitness-focused activity to Saturday’s community calendar. Residents interested in getting active can explore this weekend offering.

Confirm the location, activity format and any age or equipment requirements before attending.

Advice About Your Device Drop-In Hours

Start time: 1 p.m.
Categories: Community and Workshops; Community Engagement

Have a question about your device? Advice About Your Device Drop-In Hours provides a scheduled opportunity to seek technology guidance.

Check the event details for the location, supported devices, available assistance and the drop-in session’s end time.

Poe Center Community Festival

Start time: 1 p.m.
Categories: Arts and Entertainment; Community Engagement

The Poe Center Community Festival adds a festival option to Saturday afternoon. The event is listed under arts and entertainment and community engagement.

The festival and device advice drop-in hours both begin at 1 p.m. Review their full schedules and locations when planning the afternoon.

Sunday, October 11, 2026

Theater on the Greenway: The Many Adventures of Peter Rabbit

Start time: 4 p.m.
Categories: Arts and Entertainment; Community and Workshops; Festivals and Special Events; Parks, Recreation, and Athletics

Finish the weekend with Theater on the Greenway: The Many Adventures of Peter Rabbit. Sunday’s performance brings a theater experience to Raleigh’s parks and recreation calendar.

Confirm the performance location, seating arrangements, admission or reservation requirements and weather updates before heading out.

Plan Your Raleigh Weekend

These listings provide event start times. Locations, admission details and registration requirements were not included in the supplied information. Visit the City of Raleigh website⁠ for individual event details before attending.

Follow DoRaleigh.com for daily updates on government meetings, local festivals, and community happenings — your one-stop guide to everything Raleigh!

Connect With Us: Instagram | Facebook | BSky | Linkedin

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

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Published by Bryan Tomlinson

SEO Optimization and Marketing by BTDesigns.pro 

Downtown Raleigh Event Guide Weekend Edition October 2–4, 2026

Downtown Raleigh welcomes October with First Friday art events, live music, food festivals, haunted tours and late-night entertainment. This Downtown Raleigh weekend event guide for October 2–4, 2026, also includes nearby outings at Dorothea Dix Park, Mordecai Historic Park and William Peace University.

Friday’s highlights include Raleigh Wide Open, a Ghostbusters movie night at Moore Square and gallery events across downtown. Saturday brings Taste of Asia NC, Falling for Local and Indigo Girls with special guest Linda Perry. Sunday rounds out the weekend with brunch, history tours, workshops and live music.

Friday, October 2

Festivals, Concerts and Tours

• Raleigh Wide Open Music Festival: Noon–11 p.m. at the Fayetteville Street venue.
• Raleigh Wide Open Weekend: 4–6 p.m. at the City of Raleigh Museum.
• Raleigh Film and Art Festival Opening Celebration: 6–9:30 p.m. at Artspace. The broader festival listing also names William Peace University; confirm the location for each program.
• Heroes Off Duty Comedy Tour: 7:30 p.m. at the Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts.
• North Carolina Symphony: The Music of Pink Floyd with The Machine: 8 p.m. Confirm the performance venue and ticket details.
• Downtown Raleigh Historian-Guided Tour: 3 p.m., with Jimmy V’s Osteria + Bar listed as the meeting location.
• A Taste of Downtown Raleigh Food Tours: 12:45 p.m., with the City of Raleigh Museum listed as the meeting location.
• Haunted History Tour: 7–8:15 p.m. with Raleigh Walking Tours.
• Spirits & Spirits: Haunted Cocktail Rydables Tour: 5–7 p.m. and 7–9 p.m. with Raleigh Rydables.

First Friday Arts, Markets and Pop-Ups

Explore downtown galleries, browse shops and enjoy seasonal activities during Raleigh’s First Friday evening.

• Artist/Curatorial Discussion with Vera Weinfield: 4–5 p.m. at Artspace.
• Quiet Company: Paintings and Linocuts by Will South: 11 a.m.–5 p.m., plus First Friday evening hours of 6–8 p.m., at Gallery C.
• Celebrate Our New Exhibit!: 5–8 p.m. at Gallery 20.
• First Friday Anniversary Sale!: 5–7:30 p.m. at The Museum Shop.
• First Friday at Curate: 5–9 p.m. at Curate Raleigh.
• First Friday Market & Movie Night — Ghostbusters (1984): 5–9 p.m. at Moore Square. Confirm the movie’s start time within the event window.
• Spooky Hollow First Friday: 5–8 p.m. at Smoky Hollow, 421 N. Harrington St.
• Tattoo Pop-Up: 5–9 p.m. at Copperline Plant Co.
• First Friday Flashes with Old Ghosts Tattoo: 5–10 p.m. at Le Dive.
• First Friday at CoLab: Monster: 6–11 p.m. at The Carter Building.
• Welcoming Fall to the Studio!: 6–8 p.m. at Linda Ruth Dickinson’s studio.
• First Friday Art Night at The TBL Cafe: 7–9 p.m. at The Bike Library.

Food, Drinks and Nightlife

• Hey, Pumpkin!: 3–8 p.m. at The Cupcake Shoppe Bakery.
• Tequila Old Fashioned Lab: 5–6 p.m. at Crude Bitters & The Bittery.
• First Friday at The Raleigh Wine Shop — Alimentari Pop-Up + Jeff Bramwell’s Piemonte Takeover: 5–9 p.m.
• First Friday at Slim’s with Gage Saylor and the Creekside Boys: Listed event window of 4:30 p.m.–11:59 p.m. at Slim’s Downtown.
• 8 Free Tokens!: 6–9 p.m. at Super Rad Retro Lounge.
• FREE First Friday Improv Jam + Open Mic: 7–9:30 p.m. at Leela Improv Theatre.
• First Friday at The Times: 7–11 p.m. at The Raleigh Times Bar.
• Crank Karaoke: 8–11 p.m. at Crank Arm Brewing.
• Garden Grooves: 8–11 p.m. at Botanical Lounge.
• First Friday: Michael Parker & Storm Adams: 8–11 p.m. at The Davie.
• Signature Fridays featuring DJ Drop: 9 p.m.–1 a.m. at Haymaker.
• Late Nights at Neptunes!: 10 p.m.–2 a.m. at Neptunes Parlour.

Daytime museum stop: The Park with a City in It: Celebrating 50 Years of the Raleigh Greenway System is listed from 9 a.m.–4 p.m. at the City of Raleigh Museum.

Saturday, October 3

Festivals and Daytime Outings

Saturday’s schedule offers food, music and fall activities throughout downtown and nearby.

• Raleigh Wide Open Music Festival: Noon–11 p.m. at the Fayetteville Street venue.
• Raleigh Film and Art Festival: 8:30 a.m.–6 p.m., with William Peace University listed as the venue. Confirm individual program locations.
• Taste of Asia NC: 11 a.m.–6 p.m. at Moore Square.
• Falling for Local: 11 a.m.–6 p.m. at Dorothea Dix Park.
• Gallery 20 × Raleigh City Farm: 10 a.m.–noon at Raleigh City Farm.
• Raleigh Wide Open Book Events: 2–4 p.m. at the City of Raleigh Museum.
• Beyond the Bluegrass — Family Fun Day at The Times!: 3–9 p.m. at The Raleigh Times Bar.
• Oktoberfest Day Party: 2–5 p.m. at Boxcar Bar and Arcade.
• Kanye West — Late Registration Pop-Up: 1–5 p.m. at Maison Neue. An artist appearance is not indicated in the supplied listing.

Classes, Exhibitions and Tours

• Pilates Mat Class: 9:30–10:15 a.m. at Heights Pilates.
• Quiet Company: Paintings and Linocuts by Will South: 11 a.m.–5 p.m. at Gallery C.
• Bar Tool Lab: 2–3 p.m. at Crude Bitters & The Bittery.
• A Taste of Downtown Raleigh Food Tours: 2:30 p.m., with the City of Raleigh Museum listed as the meeting location.
• Veloce Italian Market Pizza Class: 6–8 p.m. at Veloce Italian Market.
• Haunted History Tour: 7–8:15 p.m. with Raleigh Walking Tours.
• Spirits & Spirits: Haunted Cocktail Rydables Tour: 5–7 p.m. and 7–9 p.m. with Raleigh Rydables.
• The Park with a City in It: Celebrating 50 Years of the Raleigh Greenway System: 9 a.m.–4 p.m. at the City of Raleigh Museum.

Concerts and Nightlife

• Indigo Girls with special guest Linda Perry: 7 p.m. at the Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts.
• North Carolina Symphony: The Music of Pink Floyd with The Machine: 8 p.m. Confirm the performance venue and ticket details.
• Wolfpack Polka Party: 7–11 p.m. at Slim’s Downtown.
• SNL at Killjoy with DJ Deluxe and Knu Element Entertainment: 9 p.m.–1 a.m. at Killjoy.
• Late Nights at Neptunes!: 10 p.m.–2 a.m. at Neptunes Parlour.
• Cozy Saturday featuring DJ JMar — The Wizard: Haymaker; time not provided.

Sunday, October 4

Brunch, Music and Afternoon Activities

Finish the weekend with brunch, a run club, a history tour or an afternoon performance.

• Sunday Brunch & Live Music: 9 a.m.–noon at Good Day Good Night.
• Sunday Run Club: 9–10:30 a.m. at The Bike Library.
• Dolly Parton Charity Brunch: 10 a.m.–3 p.m. at Parkside.
• Morgan Street Sessions: Noon–4 p.m. at Morgan Street Food Hall.
• Raleigh Film and Art Festival: Begins at noon, with William Peace University listed as the venue. Sunday’s closing time was not provided.
• “Music of the New Nation” Concert: 1–2 p.m. at Mordecai Historic Park.
• FREE Air Hockey Tournament: 1 p.m. at Super Rad Retro Lounge.
• Sequoia Rose — Outlaw Blues Grass: 3–5 p.m. at Slim’s Downtown.
• Book Club: 3:30–5 p.m. at Copperline Plant Co.
• Raleigh African American History Tour: 4–5 p.m., with Jimmy V’s Osteria + Bar listed as the meeting location.
• The Park with a City in It: Celebrating 50 Years of the Raleigh Greenway System: Listed from 9 a.m.–4 p.m. at the City of Raleigh Museum; confirm Sunday museum hours.

Sunday Evening

• Spirits & Spirits: Haunted Cocktail Rydables Tour: 5–7 p.m. and 7–9 p.m. with Raleigh Rydables.
• Hand Lettering Workshop with Forage and Roam at TBL Cafe: 6:30–8 p.m. at The Bike Library.
• Carson Bull: 8–11 p.m. at Slim’s Downtown.

Gallery C schedule note: Quiet Company also appears in the supplied Sunday listings, but its stated regular hours are Tuesday–Saturday, 11 a.m.–5 p.m. Confirm any special Sunday opening before visiting.

Plan Your Downtown Raleigh Weekend

First Friday galleries, Raleigh Wide Open, food festivals and haunted tours provide plenty of options for an October weekend in Raleigh. Pair a daytime exhibition or tour with dinner, a concert or evening entertainment.

Admission prices were not supplied unless an event was explicitly marked free. Confirm tickets, reservations, tour meeting points and updated hours with organizers before attending.

Follow DoRaleigh.com for daily updates on government meetings, local festivals, and community happenings — your one-stop guide to 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 |

City of Raleigh Government Event Guide Weekend Edition October 2–4, 2026

Raleigh’s first October weekend features photography, Raleigh Wide Open programming, a First Friday market and movie, and a historic trolley tour. This City of Raleigh Government Event Guide highlights arts, culture and history events happening Friday, October 2, through Sunday, October 4, 2026.

Friday, October 2

Click! Photography Festival Exhibition
Listed time: 12 a.m.–11:59 p.m.

Explore photography as part of Raleigh’s October arts programming. The exhibition is listed all day; confirm the venue’s actual viewing hours before visiting.

Raleigh Wide Open – Interviews
4–6 p.m.

Raleigh Wide Open’s Friday programming includes an afternoon interview event. Add it to the weekend itinerary before heading to an evening activity.

First Friday Market and Movie
5–9 p.m.

Start the weekend with an evening combining a market and movie. This First Friday event offers another way to enjoy Raleigh’s community programming.

Saturday, October 3

Click! Photography Festival Exhibition
Listed time: 12 a.m.–11:59 p.m.

The photography exhibition continues Saturday, providing another opportunity to include the arts in weekend plans. Confirm viewing hours before attending.

Raleigh Wide Open – Book Events
2–4 p.m.

Book events take the spotlight during Raleigh Wide Open’s Saturday afternoon programming. Readers looking for things to do in Raleigh can add this two-hour event to their plans.

Sunday, October 4

Click! Photography Festival Exhibition
Listed time: 12 a.m.–11:59 p.m.

Sunday offers another opportunity to visit the photography exhibition during the weekend. Check the venue’s hours when planning a visit.

Moving Raleigh Historic Trolley Tour
Listed event window: 1–4 p.m.

Wrap up the weekend with a history-themed trolley outing. The Moving Raleigh Historic Trolley Tour offers residents and visitors an opportunity to explore Raleigh’s past. Confirm departure times and ticket requirements before attending.

Plan Your Weekend

Friday features interviews and a market-and-movie evening, Saturday brings book programming, and Sunday includes a historic trolley tour. The Click! Photography Festival Exhibition appears on the calendar all three days.

Locations, admission prices and registration details were not included in the supplied listings. Visit the City of Raleigh event calendar⁠ for additional information and schedule updates.

Follow DoRaleigh.com for daily updates on government meetings, local festivals, and community happenings — your one-stop guide to everything Raleigh!

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Downtown Raleigh Event Guide Weekend Edition September 18–20, 2026

Looking for things to do in downtown Raleigh this weekend? The Downtown Raleigh Event Guide for Friday, September 18 through Sunday, September 20, 2026, includes live music, theater, festivals, art exhibits, food tours, cocktail classes, yoga, karaoke, markets, and family-friendly activities.

From the opening weekend of the North Carolina Symphony’s Rachmaninoff Piano Concerto No. 3 to BugFest, La Fiesta del Pueblo, Hobbit Fest, and Sproktoberfest, downtown Raleigh has options for every kind of weekend outing.

Friday, September 18

Friday Daytime and Early Evening

• Yoga Explorer with the Birds: 8–9 a.m., Fred Fletcher Park.
• Watercolors by Suzanne Hetzel: 11 a.m.–5 p.m., Gallery C.
• A Taste of Downtown Raleigh Food Tours: 12:45 p.m., City of Raleigh Museum.
• Downtown Raleigh Historian-Guided Tour: 3 p.m., Jimmy V’s Osteria + Bar.
• Spirits & Spirits: Haunted Cocktail Rydables Tour: 5–7 p.m. and 7–9 p.m., Raleigh Rydables.
• Raleigh Song Circle: 6:45–8 p.m., Current Wellness.
• Opening: Oakwood Series 2026: Friday and Saturday at 6:30 p.m.; Sunday at 2 p.m., Historic Oakwood Cemetery.
• Opening: Witch, Please! Halloween Cocktail Bar Pop-Up: Wye Hill Kitchen & Brewing.

Friday Night Events

• Open Mic Night at TBL Cafe: 7–9 p.m., The Bike Library.
• Opening Weekend: Rachmaninoff Piano Concerto No. 3 with the North Carolina Symphony: 8 p.m., North Carolina Symphony.
• Garden Grooves: 8–11 p.m., Botanical Lounge.
• Yea(H), Dead Rat Disco, and To What Degree: 8–10 p.m., Slim’s Downtown.
• Crank Karaoke: 8–11 p.m., Crank Arm Brewing.
• Signature Fridays featuring DJ Drop: 9 p.m.–1 a.m., Haymaker.
• Late Nights at Neptunes: 10 p.m.–2 a.m., Neptunes Parlour.

Saturday, September 19

Saturday Morning and Afternoon

• Pilates Mat Class: 9:30–10:15 a.m., Heights Pilates.
• BugFest: 10 a.m.–7 p.m., North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences.
• Hobbit Fest: One Festival. Three Epic Films. One Journey to Middle-earth.: 10 a.m.–8 p.m., Moore Square.
• Watercolors by Suzanne Hetzel: 11 a.m.–5 p.m., Gallery C.
• A Taste of Downtown Raleigh Food Tours: 2:30 p.m., City of Raleigh Museum.
• Mocktail Lab: 2–3 p.m., Crude Bitters & The Bittery.
• Good Day Good Night Forgotten Favorites Cocktail Class: 3 p.m., Good Day Good Night.
• Fall Equinox: Reflection, Tea Ritual + Sound Bath: 3:30–5 p.m., Current Wellness.
• Prenatal Yoga Workshop: 1–2:30 p.m., Current Wellness.

Saturday Evening and Late Night

• Spirits & Spirits: Haunted Cocktail Rydables Tour: 5–7 p.m. and 7–9 p.m., Raleigh Rydables.
• Opening Weekend: Rachmaninoff Piano Concerto No. 3 with the North Carolina Symphony: 8 p.m., North Carolina Symphony.
• Side Stories: 7 p.m., Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts.
• Tumbao: 10 p.m.–midnight, Slim’s Downtown.
• Late Nights at Neptunes: 10 p.m.–2 a.m., Neptunes Parlour.
• SNL at Killjoy with DJ Deluxe and Knu Element Entertainment: 9 p.m.–1 a.m., Killjoy.

Sunday, September 20

Sunday Morning and Afternoon

• Sunday Run Club: 9–10:30 a.m., The Bike Library.
• Pride Flow: 11 a.m.–noon, Current Wellness.
• Watercolors by Suzanne Hetzel: 11 a.m.–5 p.m., Gallery C.
• La Fiesta del Pueblo: Fayetteville Street.
• Cervantino Bilingual Book Fair: City of Raleigh Museum.
• DIY Mounted Staghorn Ferns: Noon–2 p.m., Copperline Plant Co.
• Morgan Street Sessions: Noon–4 p.m., Morgan Street Food Hall.
• Rise n’ Grind: DJs and Market on the Videri Patio: Noon–4 p.m., Videri Chocolate Factory.
• Cocktails & Cuisine Class: Falling Gin-tly: 2–3:30 p.m., The Willard Rooftop Lounge.
• Celebrating the Legacy of Alma Thomas and Black Artistry: 1–2:30 p.m., Artspace.
• Free Air Hockey Tournament: 1 p.m., Super Rad Retro Lounge.
• J Candeed: 3–5 p.m., Slim’s Downtown.
• Sun Salutations for All Bodies: Yoga Workshop: 3–5 p.m., Current Wellness.
• Raleigh African American History Tour: 4–5 p.m., Jimmy V’s Osteria + Bar.

Sunday Evening Events

• Gothic Assemblage: 5–7 p.m., Burial Beer Co. The Exhibit at Transfer Co. Food Hall.
• Spirits & Spirits: Haunted Cocktail Rydables Tour: 5–7 p.m. and 7–9 p.m., Raleigh Rydables.
• Songwriter Night at Slim’s: 7–10 p.m., Slim’s Downtown.
• Emo Karaoke: 8 p.m.–midnight, Neptunes Parlour.
• Sproktoberfest: Noon–5 p.m., Crank Arm Brewing.

Plan Your Downtown Raleigh Weekend

This weekend’s downtown Raleigh schedule brings together major cultural events, outdoor activities, music, food, and nightlife. Highlights include BugFest at the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences, Hobbit Fest at Moore Square, La Fiesta del Pueblo on Fayetteville Street, the North Carolina Symphony’s Rachmaninoff performance, and Sproktoberfest at Crank Arm Brewing.

Event schedules, admission policies, and locations may change. Confirm reservations, ticket requirements, age restrictions, and weather updates directly with venues and organizers before attending.

Follow DoRaleigh.com for daily updates on government meetings, local festivals, and community happenings — your one-stop guide to everything Raleigh!

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Downtown Raleigh Weekend Event Guide September 11–13, 2026

Downtown Raleigh’s September 11–13 weekend brings Hopscotch day parties, live music, art exhibitions, local markets, food tours and nightlife. From afternoon performances at Kings and Slim’s to Air Supply’s Saturday concert and Sunday jazz at Incendiary Brewing, there are plenty of ways to explore the city.

For residents and visitors searching for things to do in downtown Raleigh this weekend, DoRaleigh.com’s guide organizes the events by day.

Festival note: Hopscotch Music Festival’s official dates are September 10–12, 2026. The Sunday events below are separately listed venue activities and day parties. Official Hopscotch information⁠.

Confirm admission prices, age restrictions, reservations and schedules with individual venues. Events ending after midnight continue into the following morning.

Friday, September 11

Hopscotch Day Parties

Friday’s daytime music schedule stretches from late morning through early evening, with parties at Kings, Neptunes, Slim’s, The Pour House, Crank Arm Brewing and Rebus Works.

• Incendiary Brewing x Bloc83 Hopscotch Weekend: Incendiary Brewing Taproom. Event time not provided.
• 3-Lobed Recs: The Annual Ritual of Summoning: 11:30 a.m.–5 p.m. at Kings.
• Sleepy Cat Records Presents: Road to Cattyrompus: Noon–5 p.m. at Slim’s Downtown.
• War of the Monsters Vol II: Noon–5 p.m. at Neptunes Parlour.
• Homie Hangout: 12:30–5 p.m. at The Pour House Music Hall, Record Shop, & Pressing Plant.
• Hopscotch Day Party #1: 2–5 p.m. at Crank Arm Brewing.
• Triangle Synth Party: 4–7 p.m. at Rebus Works.

Art, Food and Downtown History

Explore a watercolor exhibition, take a food tour or learn about downtown Raleigh’s history before heading out for the evening.

• Watercolors by Suzanne Hetzel: 11 a.m.–5 p.m. at Gallery C.
• A Taste of Downtown Raleigh Food Tours: 12:45 p.m. at the City of Raleigh Museum.
• Downtown Raleigh Historian-Guided Tour: 3 p.m. at Jimmy V’s Osteria + Bar.

Friday Night Activities

Friday evening offers pottery painting, karaoke, music and dancing at downtown venues.

• Cozy Panda Pottery Painting @ TBL Cafe: 7–8:30 p.m. at The Bike Library.
• Crank Karaoke: 8–11 p.m. at Crank Arm Brewing.
• Garden Grooves: 8–11 p.m. at Botanical Lounge.
• Signature Fridays Featuring DJ Drop: 9 p.m.–1 a.m. at Haymaker.
• Late Nights at Neptunes: 10 p.m.–2 a.m. at Neptunes Parlour.

Saturday, September 12

Morning Activities, Markets and Art

Start Saturday with Pilates, a Black history tour or shopping on the Videri patio. Gallery C’s schedule includes the closing day of Marsha Burns’ photography exhibition.

• Pilates Mat Class: 9:30–10:15 a.m. at Heights Pilates.
• Downtown Raleigh Black History Tour: 10–11:30 a.m. at Pope House Museum.
• September Market on the Videri Patio: 10 a.m.–2 p.m. at Videri Chocolate Factory.
• The Americans: Silver Gelatin Photographs by Marsha Burns — Closing Day: 11 a.m.–5 p.m. at Gallery C.
• Watercolors by Suzanne Hetzel: 11 a.m.–5 p.m. at Gallery C.
• Sip and Shop: 1–3 p.m. at Crude Bitters & The Bittery.
• A Taste of Downtown Raleigh Food Tours: 2:30 p.m. at the City of Raleigh Museum.

Gallery C lists Tuesday–Saturday hours of 11 a.m.–5 p.m. and is closed Sunday and Monday. Plan a weekend exhibition visit for Friday or Saturday. Gallery C hours and exhibitions⁠.

Saturday Hopscotch Day Parties

Saturday’s music schedule offers afternoon options throughout downtown, including a family show at Kings, patio performances and parties continuing into early evening.

• Incendiary Brewing x Bloc83 Hopscotch Weekend: Incendiary Brewing Taproom. Event time not provided.
• Jack The Radio Presents: Hopscotch Day Party: Noon–5 p.m. at Slim’s Downtown, sponsored by Cooks Mill Whiskey and 2112.
• Sir Walter Summer Day Parties: Noon–5 p.m. at Sir Walter Coffee & Kitchen.
• “Musicians in Music” Family Show: Noon–5 p.m. at Kings.
• Deep End Day Party: Noon–5 p.m. at Neptunes Parlour.
• Hopscotch Day Party: Noon–5 p.m. at Berkeley Cafe.
• Snowblinder and Friends Patio Party: Noon–5 p.m. at Morgan Street Food Hall.
• Southern Idiom, Expanded: Noon–5 p.m. at The Pour House Music Hall, Record Shop, & Pressing Plant.
• Hopscotch Day Party #2: 2–5:45 p.m. at Crank Arm Brewing.
• Live at Anchor: 2–5 p.m. at The Anchor.
• Hopscotch Day Party Hosted by Savage Knights: 4–7 p.m. at Rebus Works.

Saturday Evening Concerts and Nightlife

Air Supply brings its A Matter of Time Tour to the Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts. Elsewhere, the evening includes music trivia bingo, DJs and a Hopscotch after-party.

• Music Trivia Bingo — Hopscotch/NC Musicians Edition: 6–8 p.m. at Bitter Social.
• Air Supply — A Matter of Time Tour: 7 p.m. at Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts.
• Cozy Saturday Featuring DJ JMar — The Wizard: Haymaker. Event time not provided.
• SNL at Killjoy with DJ Deluxe and Knu Element Entertainment: 9 p.m.–1 a.m. at Killjoy.
• Redline — A Hopscotch After Party: 9 p.m.–2 a.m. at Bitter Social.
• Late Nights at Neptunes: 10 p.m.–2 a.m. at Neptunes Parlour.

Sunday, September 13

Sunday Fitness and Creative Activities

Sunday starts with a run club and yoga options, followed by a planter workshop, a free air hockey tournament and an African American history tour.

• Sunday Run Club: 9–10:30 a.m. at The Bike Library.
• Yoga on the Bloc: 9:30–10:30 a.m. at YogaSix Glenwood South.
• Puppy Yoga with Blazin’ Trails Bottle Babies & Crank Arm Brewing: 10:30 a.m.–noon at Crank Arm Brewing.
• Free Air Hockey Tournament: 1 p.m. at Super Rad Retro Lounge.
• Sculpt a Face Planter with Fragments & Fig: 2:30–4 p.m. at Copperline Plant Co.
• Raleigh African American History Tour: 4–5 p.m. at Jimmy V’s Osteria + Bar.

Sunday Day Parties, Jazz and Markets

The main festival ends Saturday, but the supplied Sunday calendar offers more opportunities to hear music and gather at downtown venues.

• Hopscotch Hangover Party: Noon–6 p.m. at Slim’s Downtown.
• Morgan Street Sessions: Noon–4 p.m. at Morgan Street Food Hall.
• Last Call Y’all — Hopscotch Day Party: Noon–7 p.m. at The Pour House Music Hall, Record Shop, & Pressing Plant.
• Sunday Absolution Market — Hopscotch Day Party: 1–3 p.m. at Kings.
• Jazz Sundays with Workbook: 2–5 p.m. at Incendiary Brewing Taproom.
• Live at Anchor — Hopscotch Day Party: 2–5 p.m. at The Anchor.
• Psychedelic Sunday — Hopscotch Day Party: 3–6 p.m. at Berkeley Cafe.

Plan Your Downtown Raleigh Weekend

For a music-focused outing, choose an afternoon day party and leave time for dinner before an evening performance. Visitors interested in art and history can combine a Friday or Saturday gallery visit with a downtown tour. Sunday offers options for fitness, creative workshops and afternoon music.

Check each venue’s admission and reservation details before heading out, particularly for concerts, tours, classes and workshops.

Follow DoRaleigh.com for daily updates on government meetings, local festivals, and community happenings — your one-stop guide to everything Raleigh!

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Four Major Raleigh Festivals to Attend This Week

Raleigh’s festival calendar is packed with music, theater, street performance and family activities from September 10–12, 2026. This week’s major events include the Hopscotch Music Festival, Raleigh Fringe Festival, Lakeside Family Fest and Buskers Day at the North Carolina Museum of Art.

Whether you want to discover new music in downtown Raleigh, experience unconventional theater or enjoy a free outdoor event with the family, here are four festivals to put on your calendar.

Hopscotch Music Festival

The Hopscotch Music Festival returns to downtown Raleigh for three days of live music across outdoor stages and local clubs. More than 100 artists are scheduled to perform at venues including City Plaza, Moore Square, Kings, Lincoln Theatre, Nash Hall, Neptunes, Slim’s and The Pour House Music Hall.

The 2026 lineup features headliners Dexter and the Moonrocks, Cory Wong and King Princess, along with Momma, Duckwrth, Soccer Mommy and many more performers. View the official Hopscotch lineup⁠.

A three-day pass provides admission to official club shows and access to Moore Square Commons, a new festival area featuring local food, crafts and musicians. Review passes and participating venues⁠.

• Dates: Thursday, September 10–Saturday, September 12, 2026
• Location: City Plaza, Moore Square and venues across downtown Raleigh
• Admission: Festival passes required for official programming
• More information: Hopscotch Music Festival⁠

Raleigh Fringe Festival

The Raleigh Fringe Festival returns for its third year with three days of multidisciplinary performances at Theatre Raleigh Arts Center.

The alternative arts festival provides a platform for emerging and established artists to experiment, take creative risks and celebrate Raleigh’s “weird and wonderful” creative community. Programming includes live performances, buskers, workshops, community events and artist showcases.

The festival runs September 10–12 at Theatre Raleigh Arts Center. Performance times and schedules vary by day. View the Theatre Raleigh event listing⁠.

• Dates: Thursday, September 10–Saturday, September 12, 2026
• Location: Theatre Raleigh Arts Center
• Address: 6638 Old Wake Forest Road, Raleigh
• Admission: Ticketed
• Event times: Vary by performance

Lakeside Family Fest

Families can spend an entire Saturday enjoying creativity, wellness and outdoor adventure during the third annual Lakeside Family Fest.

The free event includes a fire show, art activities, martial arts, bubbles, yoga, a sound bath, forest bathing, s’mores, food trucks, vendors, guest speakers, tug-of-war and a sensory yurt. Optional overnight camping is also available.

Lakeside Family Fest runs from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. at Lakeside Retreats in East Raleigh. Review the official event details⁠.

• Date: Saturday, September 12, 2026
• Time: 8 a.m.–9 p.m.
• Location: Lakeside Retreats
• Address: 4521 Mial Plantation Road, Raleigh
• Admission: Free
• Optional activity: Overnight camping

Buskers Day at the North Carolina Museum of Art

Buskers Day will transform the North Carolina Museum of Art’s 164-acre Museum Park into a celebration of public performance.

Musicians, movement artists and other performers from across North Carolina will bring creativity to the park’s paths and plazas. The family-friendly afternoon introduces visitors to the tradition of busking, in which artists perform in public spaces and may accept gratuities from audience members.

General admission is free, and performances will take place throughout the park from 1 to 5 p.m. View the official Buskers Day information⁠.

• Date: Saturday, September 12, 2026
• Time: 1–5 p.m.
• Location: Museum Park at the North Carolina Museum of Art
• Address: 2110 Blue Ridge Road, Raleigh
• Admission: Free

Plan Your Raleigh Festival Weekend

Hopscotch and Raleigh Fringe offer three days of ticketed music and performing arts, while Lakeside Family Fest and Buskers Day provide two free options for families on Saturday.

Because several of these events overlap, attendees should review schedules, parking information, ticket availability and venue policies before making plans.

Follow DoRaleigh.com for daily updates on government meetings, local festivals, and community happenings — your one-stop guide to everything Raleigh!

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Downtown Raleigh Weekend Event Guide: September 4–6, 2026

Downtown Raleigh welcomes the first weekend of September with art exhibitions, First Friday celebrations, live music, cultural festivals, guided tours, nightlife and family-friendly activities.

Major weekend highlights include the 17th Annual African American Cultural Festival of Raleigh and Wake County, Game and Geek Expo 2026, the First Friday Market and Movie at Moore Square and dozens of events at downtown galleries, restaurants and entertainment venues.

Here is your DoRaleigh guide to things to do in downtown Raleigh from Friday, September 4, through Sunday, September 6, 2026.

Friday, September 4

First Friday takes over downtown Raleigh with gallery openings, pop-up markets, live performances, creative workshops and a free outdoor movie.

• Watercolors by Suzanne Hetzel: 11 a.m.–5 p.m. | Gallery C
• A Taste of Downtown Raleigh Food Tour: 12:45 p.m. | City of Raleigh Museum
• Downtown Raleigh Historian-Guided Tour: 3 p.m. | Jimmy V’s Osteria + Bar
• First Friday Malört Tasting and Live Music: 4:30–11:59 p.m. | Slim’s Downtown
• 20% Off Tasty NC Treats: 5–7:30 p.m. | The Museum Shop
• Artspace First Fridays: 5–10 p.m. | Artspace
• First Friday Flashes with Old Ghosts Tattoo: 5–10 p.m. | Le Dive
• First Friday Market and Movie—“Remember the Titans”: 5–9 p.m. | Moore Square
• First Friday Pop-Up featuring Sean Otwell, Rise Over Run and Alimentari: 5–9 p.m. | The Raleigh Wine Shop
• Gallery 20 Grand Relaunch Celebration: 5–8 p.m. | Gallery 20
• Eight Free Tokens: 6–9 p.m. | Super Rad Retro Lounge
• First Friday at CoLab—“Critters”: 6–11 p.m. | The Carter Building
• First Friday at Curate with Wearevers: 6–9 p.m. | Curate Raleigh
• September Open Studio: 6 p.m. | Linda Ruth Dickinson
• Watercolors by Suzanne Hetzel: 6–8 p.m. | Gallery C
• Redbud Writing New Headquarters Grand Opening Party: 6:30–9:30 p.m. | Redbud Writing Project
• First Friday Art Night: 7–9 p.m. | The Bike Library
• First Friday with Little Raleigh Radio featuring The Veldt: City of Raleigh Museum
• First Friday at The Times: 7–11 p.m. | The Raleigh Times Bar
• First Friday Raleigh—Your First Crochet Stitch: 7–9 p.m. | Parcero Studio
• Free First Friday Improv Jam and Open Mic: 7–9:30 p.m. | Leela Improv Theatre
• Crank Karaoke: 8–11 p.m. | Crank Arm Brewing
• Garden Grooves: 8–11 p.m. | Botanical Lounge
• First Friday Live Music with Jake Potter: 8–9 p.m. | The Davie
• Signature Fridays featuring DJ Drop: 9 p.m.–1 a.m. | Haymaker
• Late Nights at Neptunes: 10 p.m.–2 a.m. | Neptunes Parlour

Saturday, September 5

Saturday brings one of Raleigh’s largest cultural celebrations, a major gaming convention, history tours, live entertainment and downtown nightlife.

• Pilates Mat Class: 9:30–10:15 a.m. | Heights Pilates
• Downtown Raleigh Black History Tour: 10–11:30 a.m. | Pope House Museum
• Game and Geek Expo 2026: 10 a.m.–8 p.m. | Atlantic Union Bank Convention Center
• 17th Annual African American Cultural Festival of Raleigh and Wake County: Fayetteville Street
• Watercolors by Suzanne Hetzel: 11 a.m.–5 p.m. | Gallery C
• Grand Opening of Rebellion Media: Noon–6 p.m. | Rebellion Media
• Spritz Lab: 2–3 p.m. | Crude Bitters & The Bittery
• A Taste of Downtown Raleigh Food Tour: 2:30 p.m. | City of Raleigh Museum
• Jesse & Joy—El Despecho Tour: 8 p.m. | Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts
• Cozy Saturday featuring DJ JMar—The Wizard: Haymaker
• SNL at Killjoy with DJ Deluxe and Knu Element Entertainment: 9 p.m.–1 a.m. | Killjoy
• Late Nights at Neptunes: 10 p.m.–2 a.m. | Neptunes Parlour

Sunday, September 6

Finish the weekend with brunch, community running, gaming, live music, plant activities and a guided African American history tour.

• Sunday Brunch and Live Music: 9 a.m.–noon | Good Day Good Night
• Sunday Run Club: 9–10:30 a.m. | The Bike Library
• Game and Geek Expo 2026: 10 a.m.–8 p.m. | Atlantic Union Bank Convention Center
• 17th Annual African American Cultural Festival of Raleigh and Wake County: Fayetteville Street
• Morgan Street Sessions: Noon–4 p.m. | Morgan Street Food Hall
• BYO Holiday Cactus: Noon–1 p.m. | Copperline Plant Co.
• Free Air Hockey Tournament: 1 p.m. | Super Rad Retro Lounge
• Raleigh African American History Tour: 4–5 p.m. | Jimmy V’s Osteria + Bar

Plan Your Downtown Raleigh Weekend

This weekend offers something for nearly every interest. Art lovers can explore Raleigh’s First Friday galleries, families can attend the African American Cultural Festival, gamers can visit Game and Geek Expo 2026 and music fans can enjoy performances throughout downtown.

Event schedules, prices and availability may change. Check with organizers and venues for registration requirements, tickets, parking information and last-minute updates before attending.

Follow DoRaleigh.com for daily updates on government meetings, local festivals, and community happenings — your one-stop guide to everything Raleigh!

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Downtown Raleigh Weekend Events Guide August 28–30th Edition

Downtown Raleigh closes out August with live theater, guided history tours, food experiences, comedy, poetry, nightlife, fitness classes and community gatherings. The DoRaleigh Downtown Raleigh Weekend Events Guide highlights things to do from Friday, August 28, through Sunday, August 30, 2026.

Whether the plan calls for exploring Raleigh history, seeing a performance of “Once,” enjoying live music or relaxing with a Sunday sound bath, downtown offers options throughout the weekend.

Friday, August 28

A Taste of Downtown Raleigh Food Tours

Time: 12:45 p.m.
Meeting location: City of Raleigh Museum

Explore downtown Raleigh through its food and local history during this guided culinary experience.

Downtown Raleigh Historian-Guided Tour

Time: 3 p.m.
Meeting location: Jimmy V’s Osteria + Bar

Discover the people, places and stories that helped shape downtown Raleigh during a historian-led walking tour.

Burning Coal Theatre Presents “Once”

Time: 7:30–10 p.m.
Location: Burning Coal Theatre Company

Burning Coal Theatre presents “Once,” the music-filled story of two artists whose unexpected connection changes their lives.

Crank Karaoke

Time: 8–11 p.m.
Location: Crank Arm Brewing

Take the microphone or cheer on local singers during Friday-night karaoke at Crank Arm Brewing.

Garden Grooves

Time: 8–11 p.m.
Location: Botanical Lounge

Botanical Lounge starts the weekend with music, cocktails and late-night energy during Garden Grooves.

Signature Fridays Featuring DJ Drop

Time: 9 p.m.–1 a.m.
Location: Haymaker

DJ Drop supplies the soundtrack for a Friday-night party at Haymaker.

Late Nights at Neptunes

Time: 10 p.m.–2 a.m.
Location: Neptunes Parlour

Neptunes Parlour keeps downtown Raleigh going after dark with its late-night Friday gathering.

Saturday, August 29

Saturday features fitness, local history, books, poetry, comedy, music and several late-night entertainment options.

Gold’s Gym Classic Competition

Location: Raleigh Convention Center

Athletes gather at the Raleigh Convention Center for the Gold’s Gym Classic Competition. Attendees should check with the organizer for competition times and admission information.

Pilates Mat Class

Time: 9:30–10:15 a.m.
Location: Heights Pilates

Begin Saturday with a Pilates mat class focused on movement, balance and core strength.

Downtown Raleigh Black History Tour

Time: 10–11:30 a.m.
Location: Pope House Museum

Explore downtown Raleigh’s African American heritage during a guided tour beginning at the historic Pope House Museum.

Mini Book Fair with Oak & Ink

Time: 1–4 p.m.
Location: Crank Arm Brewing

Browse books and connect with fellow readers during a Saturday-afternoon mini book fair featuring Oak & Ink.

A Taste of Downtown Raleigh Food Tours

Time: 2:30 p.m.
Meeting location: City of Raleigh Museum

Taste selections from downtown businesses while learning more about Raleigh’s culinary scene and local history.

Mahjong Meetup at Parcero

Time: 4–7 p.m.
Location: Parcero Studio

Players can gather for an afternoon of Mahjong, conversation and community at Parcero Studio.

Bizarre Bazaar

Time: 5–10 p.m.
Location: Le Dive

Le Dive hosts an evening bazaar featuring an eclectic downtown atmosphere and opportunities to discover something different.

Little Native Poetry III

Time: 6–8 p.m.
Location: Little Native Coffee Co.

Local voices and creative expression take center stage during an evening of poetry at Little Native Coffee Co.

Meaningful Laughs: A Comedy Show About Menopause

Time: 7–8:30 p.m.
Location: Current Wellness

This comedy show approaches menopause through humor, shared experiences and candid conversation.

Burning Coal Theatre Presents “Once”

Time: 7:30–10 p.m.
Location: Burning Coal Theatre Company

Saturday offers another opportunity to experience Burning Coal Theatre’s production of “Once.”

The Poonhounds and The Blusterfields

Time: 8–11 p.m.
Location: Slim’s Downtown

The Poonhounds and The Blusterfields bring live music to one of downtown Raleigh’s longtime nightlife destinations.

SNL at Killjoy

Time: 9 p.m.–1 a.m.
Location: Killjoy

DJ Deluxe and Knu Element Entertainment take over Killjoy for a Saturday-night party.

Late Nights at Neptunes

Time: 10 p.m.–2 a.m.
Location: Neptunes Parlour

Neptunes Parlour returns with another late-night gathering on Saturday.

Cozy Saturday Featuring DJ JMar — The Wizard

Location: Haymaker

DJ JMar — The Wizard provides the music for Cozy Saturday at Haymaker. Check with the venue for the scheduled start time.

Sunday, August 30

Sunday’s downtown schedule offers running, food hall entertainment, theater, cocktails, local history and wellness.

Sunday Run Club

Time: 9–10:30 a.m.
Location: The Bike Library

Start Sunday morning with a social run through downtown Raleigh organized by The Bike Library.

Morgan Street Sessions

Time: Noon–4 p.m.
Location: Morgan Street Food Hall

Enjoy Sunday afternoon entertainment alongside the food and drink options at Morgan Street Food Hall.

Free Air Hockey Tournament

Time: 1 p.m.
Location: Super Rad Retro Lounge

Players can test their arcade skills during a free air hockey tournament at Super Rad Retro Lounge.

Burning Coal Theatre Presents “Once”

Time: 2–4:30 p.m.
Location: Burning Coal Theatre Company

The weekend’s final scheduled performance of “Once” begins Sunday afternoon.

Cocktails & Cuisine: Bourbon for Beginners

Time: 2–3:30 p.m.
Location: The Willard Rooftop Lounge

Learn the basics of bourbon during an introductory cocktails and cuisine class at The Willard Rooftop Lounge.

Raleigh African American History Tour

Time: 4–5 p.m.
Meeting location: Jimmy V’s Osteria + Bar

The guided tour examines African American history, landmarks and stories connected to downtown Raleigh.

Sunday Unwind Sound Bath

Time: 5:30–6:45 p.m.
Location: Current Wellness

Close the weekend with a calming sound-bath experience designed to encourage rest and relaxation.

Plan Your Downtown Raleigh Weekend

Downtown Raleigh’s August 28–30 weekend lineup offers something for theater fans, history lovers, food enthusiasts, fitness groups and nightlife crowds. Visitors can spend the morning on a guided tour, catch an afternoon community event and finish the evening with live music or dancing.

Schedules, prices and availability may change. Attendees should confirm the latest information with the event organizer or venue before heading downtown.

Follow DoRaleigh.com for everything Raleigh, including downtown events, local news, weekend activities and community guides.

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Triangle Weekend Event Guide August 28–30th Edition

Looking for things to do in Raleigh, Durham, Cary, Chapel Hill and across the Triangle this weekend? The DoRaleigh Triangle Event Guide Weekend Edition features three days of festivals, markets, outdoor movies, live music, cultural programs, family activities and community events.

Many activities are free, including the Cary Night Market, NCMA’s outdoor movie at Moore Square, the Hello Kitty and Friends MiniCon, the Throwdown Food Truck Rodeo and dozens of concerts, art walks and open-mic nights.

Friday, August 28

Start the weekend with historic tours, coffee and wine tastings, outdoor entertainment, art receptions and late-night activities throughout the Triangle.

Daytime events

• QDOBA Free Chips and Queso for the Full Moon — All day at participating QDOBA locations. Free.
• Free Car Washes for Teachers and School Staff — All day at participating RipTide Car Wash locations. Free.
• Rita’s Italian Ice Promotion — Buy a custard cone and receive a free Italian ice at participating locations.
• Hike with a Naturalist — 9:30–11 a.m. at Historic Yates Mill County Park. Free.
• Free Friday at Mordecai Historic Park — 10 a.m.–4 p.m. in Raleigh. Free.
• Tasting at Ten — Free coffee tasting at 10 a.m. at Counter Culture Coffee Headquarters and Training Center in Durham.
• Mill History Tours — 10 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. at Historic Yates Mill County Park. Free.
• Bull City Woodshop Open House — 4–8 p.m. in Durham. Free.
• Free Wine Tastings — 4:30–6:30 p.m. at Bottle Theory in Apex.

Friday evening events

• Cary Night Market — 5–9 p.m. at Downtown Cary Park. Free.
• Fridays on the Front Porch — 5–8 p.m. at The Carolina Inn in Chapel Hill. Free.
• Level Up Live — Live video-game music and classic games from 5:30–7:30 p.m. at Boxyard RTP. Free.
• Last Fridays Makers Market — 5:30–8:30 p.m. at the Old Courthouse in Hillsborough. Free.
• Live on the Lawn — 5:30–8:30 p.m., presented by the Hillsborough Arts Council. Free.
• Last Fridays Art Walk — 5:30–9 p.m. in Downtown Hillsborough. Free.
• Final Friday Reception — 6–8 p.m. at Cary Gallery of Artists. Free.
• Poetry in the Park — 6–8 p.m. at the House of Many Porches in Dorothea Dix Park, Raleigh. Free.
• Neon Nights: Silent Disco — 6–8 p.m. at the Halle Cultural Arts Center in Apex. Tickets are $10–$25.
• Musical Notes Opening Reception — Live music, art activities and more from 6–9 p.m. at Margaret Lane Gallery in Hillsborough. Free.
• Pattern Recognition Opening Reception — 6–9 p.m. at Hillsborough Gallery of Arts. Free.
• NCMA Outdoor Film: “Godzilla vs. Mothra” — Activities begin at 6 p.m. at Moore Square in Raleigh. Free.
• Retro Video Game Night — 6 p.m. at The Daily Beer Bar in Durham. Free.
• Final Friday Cary Art Loop — 6–9 p.m. in Cary. Free.
• Live Music at Gizmo Brew Works — 6–9 p.m. in Raleigh. Free.
• Chime In Open Mic — Poetry, storytelling and songwriting from 6–9 p.m. at Lanza’s Cafe in Carrboro. Free.
• Front Porch Friday — 6–10 p.m. at Haven Farm in Knightdale. Free.
• Live at ATC: Los Husbandos — 6:30–8:30 p.m. at American Tobacco Campus in Durham. Free.
• Raleigh International Folk Dancers — 6:30–10 p.m. at Glen Eden Pilot Park in Raleigh. Free.
• One Tribe Final Friday Drum Circle — Featuring a flow-arts performance by Caroleena & Friends from 7–8:30 p.m. at the Old Cary Library site. Free.
• Bynum Front Porch Friday Night Music Series — 7–8:30 p.m. in Pittsboro. Free.
• Drag Bingo — 7–9 p.m. at The Glass Jug Downtown Durham Taproom. Free.
• Live Music at Compass Rose Brewery — 7–9 p.m. in Raleigh. Free.
• Karaoke Bingo Night — 7–11:55 p.m. at KōMANA Brewing Company in Cary. Free.
• Movie Night at Raleigh Brewing — 7 p.m. in Raleigh. Free.
• Discover Dance: Swing Session — 7:30–9:30 p.m. at Downtown Cary Park. Free.
• Burwell School Historic Site Star Party — 8–10 p.m. in Hillsborough. Free.
• Karaoke Under the Stars — 8–11 p.m. at The Glass Jug Beer Lab in RTP. Free.
• Stand-Up Comedy Open Mic — 8–11 p.m. at Durty Bull Brewing Company in Durham. Free.
• Late Night at the Longleaf Comedy Show — 9–11 p.m. at The Longleaf Hotel in Raleigh. Free.
• Pyromancy Alternative Dance Night — 9 p.m. at Incendiary Brewing Raleigh. Free.
• Pub Karaoke — 10–11:59 p.m. at West 94th Street Pub in Durham. Free.

Saturday, August 29

Saturday’s schedule includes specialty markets, cultural festivals, historic tours, family activities, concerts and community programs.

Saturday morning and afternoon

• Free Car Washes for Teachers and School Staff — All day at participating RipTide Car Wash locations. Free.
• Rita’s Italian Ice Promotion — Buy a custard cone and receive a free Italian ice at participating locations.
• Durham Ballet Theatre Costume Sale — 8 a.m.–noon at Durham School for Ballet & the Performing Arts.
• Visit Cow Sanctuary — 8 a.m.–noon at Brajboro Cow Sanctuary in Chapel Hill. Admission ranges from free to $25.
• Durham Craft Market — 8 a.m.–noon at Durham Central Park. Free.
• The Raleigh Market — 9 a.m.–5 p.m. at the N.C. State Fairgrounds. Free.
• Hello Kitty and Friends MiniCon — 10 a.m.–5 p.m. at Triangle Town Center. Free.
• Black History Walking Tour — 10–11 a.m. at the Pope House in Raleigh. Tickets are $6–$10.
• Millbrook United Methodist Church Food Pantry — 10 a.m.–noon in Raleigh. Free.
• Mill Open House — 10 a.m.–1 p.m. at Historic Yates Mill County Park. Free.
• Open Farm — 10 a.m.–5 p.m. at Sunrise Community Farm Center in Chapel Hill. Admission is $8.
• Chill Act North Carolina Special Needs and Homeschool Expo — 11 a.m.–3 p.m. at the Durham Convention Center. Free.
• The International Festival — 11 a.m.–9 p.m. at Theatre Raleigh Arts Center. Admission is $30.59.
• Throwdown Food Truck Rodeo — 11 a.m.–9 p.m. at Triangle Town Center. Free.
• Sensory-Friendly Film Series: “Shrek” — 11 a.m. at The Carolina Theatre in Durham. Free.
• Historic Raleigh Trolley Tours — Four one-hour tours between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. at Mordecai Historic Park. Tickets are $6–$10.
• Free Guided Tours of the N.C. State Capitol — Tours begin at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. in Raleigh.
• UNC Charity Softball Game and Touch-a-Truck — 11:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m. at Anderson Softball Stadium in Chapel Hill. Free.
• Forest Grove Festival — 11:30 a.m.–6 p.m. at American Legion Post 7 in Durham. Free.
• North Carolina Vintage Bazaar — Noon–6 p.m. at the Jim Graham Building at the N.C. State Fairgrounds. Admission is $13.01.
• Come Out and Play Sculpture Show — Noon–7 p.m. at JimGin Farm. Free.
• Tuxedo at the Pool — Noon–11 p.m. at Blackbird Brewery in Wake Forest. Free.
• Mini Book Fair with Oak and Ink — 1–4 p.m. at Crank Arm Brewing Company in Raleigh. Free.
• Baseball Shuffle Tournament — 1 p.m. at Compass Rose Brewery in Raleigh. Free.
• Vintage and Artisan Market — 2–6 p.m. at Edit Beer Co. in Raleigh. Free.
• Free Wine Tasting — 4–6 p.m. at Taps and Social in the Cary–Morrisville area.
• Dog Daze of Summer — 4–8 p.m. at Steel String Brewery’s Pluck Farm in Mebane. Free.
• Live Music at Crooked Hammock Brewery — 4–7 p.m. in Raleigh. Free.

Saturday evening events

• Saturdays in Saxapahaw — Outdoor concert from 5–8 p.m. at the Haw River Ballroom in Saxapahaw. Free.
• Live Music at Gizmo Brew Works Raleigh — 5–8 p.m. Free.
• Live Music Saturdays at Gizmo Brew Works Durham — 5–8 p.m. Free.
• Sufi Roots & Rhythms — Free concert featuring the Diali Cissokho Trio from 6–8 p.m. at Boxyard RTP.
• Live Music: Andrew Greene — 6–9 p.m. at Clouds Brewing Taproom in Raleigh. Free.
• Live Music at Fortnight Brewing — 6–9 p.m. in Wake Forest. Free.
• Beer Garden Concert Series — 6–9 p.m. at The Glass Jug Beer Lab in RTP. Free.
• Live Music at Southern Peak Brewery — 6:30–9 p.m. in Apex. Free.
• Live Music: Vertigo — 7–10 p.m. at Fortnight Brewing in Cary. Free.
• Rhythm & Reels Concert: Ol’ Joey Scrums — 7 p.m. at Apex Nature Park. Free.
• Garf’s Great Goblin Give-Away — 7 p.m. at The Common Market in Durham. Free.
• Deep 6 Pearl Jam Tribute Band — 7 p.m. at The Mason Jar Lager Company in Fuquay-Varina. Free.
• Live Music Saturdays — 7–10 p.m. at Bombshell Beer Company in Holly Springs. Free.
• Karaoke at Crank Arm Brewing — 7–10 p.m. in Durham. Free.
• Marshall Sidbury Live — 8–10 p.m. at Sonark Farms in Hillsborough. Pay what you choose.
• Open Mic and Karaoke Night — 8–11 p.m. at Compass Rose Brewery in Raleigh. Free.

Sunday, August 30

Close the weekend with markets, brunch music, outdoor art, book clubs, open mics and community gatherings.

• Free Car Washes for Teachers and School Staff — All day at participating RipTide Car Wash locations. Free.
• Rita’s Italian Ice Promotion — Buy a custard cone and receive a free Italian ice at participating locations.
• Visit Cow Sanctuary — 8 a.m.–noon at Brajboro Cow Sanctuary in Chapel Hill. Admission ranges from free to $25.
• The Raleigh Market — 9 a.m.–5 p.m. at the N.C. State Fairgrounds. Free.
• CCS Nerd Yard Sale — 10 a.m.–5 p.m. at Triangle Town Center.
• Sunday Morning Yoga — 10–11 a.m. at Compass Rose Brewery in Raleigh. Free.
• Mill Open House — 10 a.m.–1 p.m. at Historic Yates Mill County Park. Free.
• The International Festival — 11 a.m.–4 p.m. at Theatre Raleigh Arts Center. Admission is $30.59.
• Sunday Brunch Music — 11 a.m.–1 p.m. on the lawn at Weaver Street Market in Carrboro. Free.
• Pawpaw Palooza — Noon–6 p.m. at The Plant in Pittsboro. Free.
• Morgan Street Sessions — Noon–4 p.m. at Morgan Street Food Hall in Raleigh. Free.
• North Carolina Vintage Bazaar — Noon–6 p.m. at the Jim Graham Building at the N.C. State Fairgrounds. Admission is $13.01.
• Come Out and Play Sculpture Show — Noon–7 p.m. at JimGin Farm. Free.
• Open Play American Mahjong — 1–3:30 p.m. at Hops & Flower in Durham. Free.
• Perfectly Imperfect Pups — 1 p.m. at Hi-Wire Brewing at Golden Belt in Durham. Free.
• Free Air Hockey Tournament — 1 p.m. at Super Rad Retro Lounge Arcade Bar in Raleigh.
• Beerded Lady Book Club — 2–4 p.m. at The Beerded Lady Bottle Shop in Garner. Free.
• Open Mic — 2–5 p.m. at Oaklyn Springs Brewery in Fuquay-Varina. Free.
• Open Mic Night — 3–6 p.m. at Gizmo Brew Works in Raleigh. Free.
• Live Music at Crooked Hammock Brewery — 3–6 p.m. in Raleigh. Free.
• Bluegrass Open Jam — 4–7 p.m. at Bond Brothers Eastside in Cary. Free.
• Open Mic Night — 6–9 p.m. at Clouds Brewing Taproom in Raleigh. Free.
• Garner Community Drum Circle — 7–8:30 p.m. at Lake Benson Park in Garner. Free.
• Sundays at Sundown — Live music from 7–9 p.m. at Southern Village in Chapel Hill. Free.

Plan Your Triangle Weekend

Whether the goal is finding a free family activity, exploring a local market, enjoying live music or discovering something new, the Triangle offers plenty of options from Friday through Sunday.

Event schedules, prices and availability may change. Attendees should confirm details with the organizer or venue before leaving home.

Follow DoRaleigh.com for everything Raleigh, including weekend events, downtown activities, community news and guides to the Triangle.

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City of Raleigh Government Guide – Weekend Edition, August 21–23, 2026

The City of Raleigh Government Guide Weekend Edition highlights community meetings, workshops, arts programs and public events scheduled for Friday, August 21, through Sunday, August 23, 2026.

This weekend’s calendar includes a National Black Business Month conversation, an inclusive public-art program, the 2026 Affordable Housing Forum, technology assistance, Packapalooza at NC State University and the city’s Summer Concert Series.

Friday, August 21

Coffee and Conversations: National Black Business Month

Time: 9 a.m.
Category: Community Engagement

Raleigh residents and local entrepreneurs can begin the weekend with Coffee and Conversations, a community engagement event recognizing National Black Business Month. The program offers an opportunity to connect, exchange ideas and celebrate the contributions of Black-owned businesses to Raleigh’s economy and neighborhoods.

Public Art for All: Senior Voices & Universal Design

Time: 1:30 p.m.
Categories: Arts and Entertainment; Community Engagement
Registration: Advance registration is required.

Public Art for All focuses on senior voices and universal design principles. The community program explores how Raleigh’s public spaces and artistic projects can become more accessible, inclusive and responsive to people of different ages and abilities.

Those interested in attending should register in advance through the event organizer.

Saturday, August 22

2026 Affordable Housing Forum

Time: 1 p.m.
Categories: Community and Workshops; Community Engagement

Affordable housing remains one of Raleigh’s most important public issues. The 2026 Affordable Housing Forum provides an opportunity for residents, advocates and community stakeholders to learn more about housing needs, challenges and potential solutions.

The forum is an important event for anyone interested in Raleigh’s growth, neighborhood stability, housing accessibility and long-term development.

Advice About Your Device Drop-In Hours

Time: 1 p.m.
Categories: Community and Workshops; Community Engagement

Residents who need help using a smartphone, tablet, laptop or another personal device can attend Advice About Your Device Drop-In Hours. The informal program allows participants to ask technology questions and receive practical assistance.

Because the program uses a drop-in format, residents can stop by during the scheduled session for help with common device issues.

Packapalooza at NC State University

Time: 2 p.m.
Category: Community Engagement

Packapalooza returns to NC State University as a major community celebration featuring entertainment, activities, food and Wolfpack spirit. The annual event brings together students, alumni, families and Triangle residents for an afternoon and evening of festivities.

Packapalooza is one of the weekend’s largest public events and offers activities for visitors of different ages.

Sunday, August 23

Summer Concert Series

Time: 6 p.m.
Category: Parks, Recreation and Athletics

The weekend concludes with Raleigh’s Summer Concert Series at 6 p.m. Sunday. Residents can enjoy an evening of live entertainment and community connection in a relaxed outdoor setting.

Attendees should consider bringing a lawn chair or blanket when permitted and check the official event listing for the location, featured performer, parking information and weather-related updates.

Participate in Raleigh’s Weekend Events

From conversations about Black-owned businesses and affordable housing to inclusive art, technology assistance and live entertainment, Raleigh’s August 21–23 government calendar offers several ways to learn, participate and connect.

Event times, registration requirements and locations may change. Residents should confirm final details through the City of Raleigh or the individual event organizer before attending.

Follow DoRaleigh.com for Raleigh government news, public meetings, community programs and weekend events.

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Hippie Fest Brings “All Things Groovy” to Downtown Raleigh

Downtown Raleigh is getting groovy as Hippie Fest: All Things Groovy takes over Moore Square on Sunday, August 16, 2026.

The free community festival will run from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the heart of downtown Raleigh. Visitors can enjoy a laid-back afternoon celebrating colorful hippie culture and good vibes in one of the city’s most popular gathering spaces.

Hippie Fest Raleigh Event Details

• Date: Sunday, August 16, 2026
• Time: 11 a.m.–4 p.m.
• Location: Moore Square
• Address: 201 S. Blount Street, Raleigh, NC
• Admission: Free

A Groovy Sunday in Downtown Raleigh

Hippie Fest offers Raleigh residents and visitors an easy way to spend Sunday afternoon downtown without paying an admission fee. Its Moore Square location also puts attendees within walking distance of downtown restaurants, shops and other attractions.

Guests are encouraged to wear their favorite retro-inspired or tie-dye outfits and come ready to celebrate peace, love and all things groovy.

Because the festival is free, it is an affordable addition to any weekend itinerary in Raleigh. Event details may be subject to change, so attendees should confirm the latest information before heading downtown.

Follow DoRaleigh.com for everything Raleigh, including local festivals, free events, weekend activities and community happenings.

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Downtown Raleigh Weekend Event Guide August 15–16th Edition

Downtown Raleigh is packed with festivals, theater, live music, nightlife, fitness classes and cultural tours this weekend. The lineup for Saturday, August 15, and Sunday, August 16, 2026, includes CaribMask Carnival, Hippie Fest, ONCE at Burning Coal Theatre and performances at the Martin Marietta Center.

Here’s your guide to things to do in Downtown Raleigh this weekend.

Saturday, August 15

Pilates Mat Class

Time: 9:30–10:15 a.m.
Location: Heights Pilates

Start Saturday with a Pilates mat class focused on movement, strength and flexibility.

Downtown Raleigh Black History Tour

Time: 10–11:30 a.m.
Location: Pope House Museum

Explore important people, places and stories connected to Raleigh’s African American history during this guided walking tour.

CaribMask Carnival

Time: 11 a.m.–8 p.m.
Location: City Plaza

CaribMask Carnival brings Caribbean culture to the heart of Downtown Raleigh with colorful costumes, music, dancing, food and community celebrations.

Prenatal Yoga Workshop

Time: 1–2:30 p.m.
Location: Current Wellness

This specialized yoga workshop provides an opportunity for expectant parents to practice movement in a supportive wellness setting.

Lit for the Culture: The Summer Renaissance Experience

Time: 2 p.m. VIP entry; 3 p.m. Open Book Experience
Location: Center for Architecture and Design

Celebrate books, creativity and culture during this summer literary experience in Downtown Raleigh.

A Taste of Downtown Raleigh Food Tour

Time: 2:30 p.m.
Meeting location: City of Raleigh Museum

Explore Downtown Raleigh’s culinary scene while learning more about the city’s history and local businesses.

Cozy Saturday Featuring DJ JMar — The Wizard

Time: Check with the venue
Location: Haymaker

Haymaker’s Cozy Saturday features music from DJ JMar — The Wizard.

Mane Attraction Burlesque: The Summer Flings & ALVARA Birthday Experience

Time: 7–9 p.m.
Location: Legends Night Club Complex

Enjoy a summer-themed burlesque production and birthday celebration at the Legends Night Club Complex.

Burning Coal Theatre Presents “ONCE”

Time: 7:30–10 p.m.
Location: Burning Coal Theatre Company

Burning Coal Theatre presents ONCE, a music-driven stage production centered on connection, creativity and unexpected relationships.

John Violinist Live

Time: 8 p.m.
Location: Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts

Experience a live performance from John Violinist at the Martin Marietta Center.

Mariachazo

Time: 8 p.m.
Location: Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts

Mariachazo brings another live performance to Downtown Raleigh’s Martin Marietta Center on Saturday evening.

Mary Anna

Time: 8–11 p.m.
Location: Slim’s Downtown

Catch Mary Anna performing live at one of Downtown Raleigh’s longtime music venues.

SNL at Killjoy

Time: 9 p.m.–1 a.m.
Location: Killjoy

Saturday nightlife at Killjoy features DJ Deluxe and Knu Element Entertainment.

Late Nights at Neptunes

Time: 10 p.m.–2 a.m.
Location: Neptunes Parlour

Keep the weekend going with a late-night party at Neptunes Parlour.

Sunday, August 16

Matcha Workshop With Kiko Cafe

Time: 8–9:30 a.m.
Location: The Bike Library

Learn more about preparing and enjoying matcha during an early-morning workshop with Kiko Cafe.

Sunday Run Club

Time: 9–10:30 a.m.
Location: The Bike Library

Join other local runners for a social Sunday morning run through Downtown Raleigh.

Pride Flow

Time: 11 a.m.–noon
Location: Current Wellness

Pride Flow offers an inclusive movement and wellness experience for Raleigh’s LGBTQ+ community and allies.

“All Things Groovy” Hippie Fest

Time: 11 a.m.–4 p.m.
Location: Moore Square

Head to Moore Square for a colorful celebration featuring groovy fashion, local vendors, music and community fun.

Morgan Street Sessions

Time: Noon–4 p.m.
Location: Morgan Street Food Hall

Enjoy live entertainment and the food hall’s collection of local dining options during Morgan Street Sessions.

Free Air Hockey Tournament

Time: 1 p.m.
Location: Super Rad Retro Lounge

Test your arcade skills during a free Sunday air hockey tournament.

Burning Coal Theatre Presents “ONCE”

Time: 2–4:30 p.m.
Location: Burning Coal Theatre Company

Sunday’s matinee provides another opportunity to see ONCE at Burning Coal Theatre.

Raleigh African American History Tour

Time: 4–5 p.m.
Meeting location: Jimmy V’s Osteria + Bar

Discover stories and landmarks connected to Raleigh’s African American community during this guided history tour.

Emo Karaoke

Time: 8 p.m.–midnight
Location: Neptunes Parlour

Sing your favorite emo anthems during a themed karaoke night at Neptunes.

Runhill

Time: 8–11 p.m.
Location: Slim’s Downtown

Close out the weekend with a live performance from Runhill at Slim’s Downtown.

Plan Your Downtown Raleigh Weekend

This weekend offers activities for nearly every interest, from CaribMask Carnival and Hippie Fest to theater, tours, food, fitness and late-night entertainment.

Event schedules, admission policies and availability may change. Confirm current information and ticket requirements with each organizer before attending.

Follow DoRaleigh.com for everything Raleigh, including daily event guides, government updates, festivals and community news.

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City of Raleigh Government Weekend Event Guide August 15–16th Edition

The City of Raleigh is offering two community events this weekend, including a muddy outdoor adventure for families and a free Sunday evening concert.

Here’s what’s happening in Raleigh on Saturday, August 15, and Sunday, August 16, 2026.

Saturday, August 15

Mud Day

Time: 10 a.m.
Location: Walnut Creek Wetland Center
Category: Parks, Recreation and Athletics

Prepare to get messy at Raleigh’s annual Mud Day celebration. This family-friendly outdoor event gives children an opportunity to play, explore and enjoy nature through mud-themed activities.

Families should consider bringing clothes and shoes that can get dirty, along with towels and a change of clothes.

Sunday, August 16

Summer Concert Series

Time: 6 p.m.
Location: Pullen Park
Category: Parks, Recreation and Athletics

Wrap up the weekend with live music during the City of Raleigh’s Summer Concert Series. The outdoor performance offers residents an opportunity to relax, enjoy the park and listen to music in a welcoming community setting.

Guests may want to bring lawn chairs, blankets, water and snacks. Review park rules before bringing outside food or beverages.

Enjoy a Weekend With Raleigh Parks

Whether your family wants to embrace the mess at Mud Day or unwind with live music at Pullen Park, these City of Raleigh events provide affordable ways to enjoy the community.

Schedules and event details may change because of weather or other circumstances. Confirm the latest information through the City of Raleigh before attending.

Follow DoRaleigh.com for everything Raleigh, including local government meetings, public programs, festivals and community events.

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Triangle Weekend Event Guide August 15–16th Edition

The Triangle is packed with festivals, markets, live music, family activities and free community events this weekend. From Raleigh’s CaribMask Caribbean Parade and Festival to Durham’s back-to-school celebrations and Cary’s outdoor movie night, there are plenty of ways to enjoy Saturday and Sunday.

Other weekend highlights include the Carolina Hurricanes Yard Sale, the NCMA Games Together Festival, the Retro Video Game Expo, Raleigh Twilight Market and a free concert at Pullen Park.

Saturday, August 15

Morning Events

Carolina Hurricanes Yard Sale
8 a.m.–1 p.m. | Admission details vary
Lenovo Center, Raleigh
Season Ticket Members can enter at 8 a.m., with public admission beginning at 11 a.m.

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

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

Summer Splash Bash
9 a.m.–1 p.m. | Free
Meridian Waste’s Shotwell Environmental Park, Wendell
Enjoy waterslides, a free lunch and family-friendly summer activities.

Books, Bikes & Back-to-School
9 a.m.–2 p.m. | Free
Durham Co-Op Market

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

Turtle Talk
10–11 a.m. | Free
Crowder County Park, Apex

Back-to-School Book Bag Giveaway
10 a.m.–noon | Free
Hope House, Wake Forest

Sensory-Friendly Petting Zoo
10 a.m.–noon | Free
Bloomwell Autism Therapy, Garner

8th Annual Mud Day
10 a.m.–1 p.m. | Free
Walnut Creek Wetland Center, Raleigh

Knightdale Arts and Education Festival
10 a.m.–1 p.m. | Free
Knightdale Station Park
The festival includes free backpacks, haircuts and educational activities.

PAW Patrol: The Dino Movie Workshop
10 a.m.–1 p.m. | Free
Participating Lowe’s stores

Retro Video Game Expo
10 a.m.–5 p.m. | Free
Triangle Town Center, Raleigh

NCMA Games Together Festival
10 a.m.–10 p.m. | Free admission; select features require tickets
North Carolina Museum of Art, Raleigh

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

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

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

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

Midday and Afternoon Events

JC Raulston Arboretum’s 50th Anniversary Bash
11 a.m.–1 p.m. | Free
JC Raulston Arboretum, Raleigh

Free Laundry Event With Uplift Laundry Truck
11 a.m.–2 p.m. | Free
WaveMax Durham

Piedmont Farm Animal Refuge Tour and Explore
11 a.m.–2 p.m. | $5–$40
Piedmont Farm Animal Refuge, Pittsboro

Family Fun Day
11 a.m.–2 p.m. | Free
City of Raleigh Museum

The Shop RDU Back-to-School Backpack Bash
11 a.m.–3 p.m. | Free
Vision Church RDU

Dog Man Meet-and-Greet
11 a.m.–4 p.m. | Free
Ultimate Comics at Crabtree Valley Mall, Raleigh

CaribMask Caribbean Parade and Festival
11 a.m.–8 p.m. | Free
City Plaza, Raleigh
Celebrate Caribbean culture with a colorful parade, music, entertainment and community festivities.

Historic Raleigh Trolley Tours
11 a.m.–3 p.m. | $6–$10
Mordecai Historic Park, Raleigh
One-hour tours are offered at four scheduled start times.

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

Fenton Makers Market
11 a.m.–4 p.m. | Free admission
Fenton, Cary

ScrumFest
Noon | Free
Compass Rose Brewery, Raleigh

Durham Really Really Free Market
Noon–2 p.m. | Free
Orchard Park, Durham

Pop-Up Raleigh Art & Vintage Market
Noon–5 p.m. | Free admission
Trophy on Maywood, Raleigh

The People’s Free Market
1–3 p.m. | Free
Philip R. Wright Community Park, Clayton

Backpacks, Wellness & Sweet Beginnings
1–4 p.m. | Free
Allure Me The Meda Health Spa, Durham
The community event includes free haircuts, backpacks and additional resources.

Riffs and Rescues
1–10 p.m. | Free
The Mason Jar Lager Company, Fuquay-Varina

Food Not Bombs Siler City Free Meal and Market
1 p.m. | Free
Chatham Square, Siler City

Live Music
2–5 p.m. | Free
Blackbird Brewery, Wake Forest

The Dog Days of Summer
2–6 p.m. | Free
The Daily Beer Bar, Durham

Free Fencing Class
3–4:30 p.m. | Free
Research Triangle Fencing

Rescue Brew Launch Party
4–7 p.m. | Free
Boxyard RTP

Artist Talk
4 p.m. | Free
Hillsborough Gallery of Arts

Live Music
4–7 p.m. | Free
Crooked Hammock Brewery, Raleigh

Saturday Evening Events

The Saloon Social: Hops for Hope Fundraiser
5–8 p.m. | Free admission
Oak City Brewing Company, Knightdale

Johnston County Little League Softball World Champions Parade
5 p.m. | Free
Archer Lodge Middle School, Wendell

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

Live Music at Gizmo Brew Works
5–8 p.m. | Free
Raleigh and Durham locations

Raleigh Twilight Market
5:30–9:30 p.m. | Free admission
Smoky Hollow, Raleigh

Songs for Humans Singalong
6–8 p.m. | Free
The Common Market, Durham

Movie Night: “How to Train Your Dragon”
6–10 p.m. | Free
Downtown Cary Park

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

Rhythm & Reels Concert: Emma Rae
7 p.m. | Free
Apex Nature Park

Karaoke Nights: Millennial Party Songs
7 p.m. | Free
Raleigh Brewing, Raleigh

Chris Lewis Live
7 p.m. | Free
Bearded Bee Brewing Company, Wendell

Jesse Black Live
7–9:30 p.m. | Free
White Street Brewing, Wake Forest

Jennifer Van Meter Live
7–10 p.m. | Free
Oaklyn Springs Brewery, Fuquay-Varina

Raleigh Assassins Live
7–10 p.m. | Free
Oaklyn Springs Taproom, Fuquay-Varina

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

Karaoke Kaos
7–11 p.m. | Free
Incendiary Brewing Raleigh

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

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

Greg Fest Comedy Night
8 p.m. | $7
Steel String Brewery, Carrboro

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

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

Sunday, August 16

Sunday Morning Events

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

Yoga Flow & Chill
10–10:45 a.m. | Pay what you can
Weaver Street Market, 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, Raleigh

Retro Video Game Expo
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

Dr. Scott Live
11 a.m.–1 p.m. | Free
Lanza’s Cafe, Carrboro

Sunday Afternoon Events

Piedmont Pear Party
Noon–6 p.m. | Free
The Plant, Pittsboro

Hillsborough Really Really Free Market
Noon–2 p.m. | Free
Gold Park, Hillsborough

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

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

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

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

Open Mic
2–5 p.m. | Free
Oaklyn Springs Brewery, Fuquay-Varina

Open Mic With Adam Lee Decker
3–6 p.m. | Free
Blackbird Brewery, Wake Forest

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

Live Music
3–6 p.m. | Free
Crooked Hammock Brewery, Raleigh

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

Sunday Evening Events

Becky and Armand Lencheck, Carter Minor and Danny Gotham
5–7 p.m. | Free
Yonder: Southern Cocktails & Brew, Hillsborough

Raleigh Concert Series: Bull City Trio
6–8 p.m. | Free
Pullen Park, Raleigh

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

Richard Boston Live
7–10 p.m. | Free
Oaklyn Springs Taproom, Fuquay-Varina

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

Runhill, Vermilion Green and Mary Anna
8 p.m. | $5
Slim’s Downtown, Raleigh

Plan Your Triangle Weekend

Whether you want to shop local, attend a cultural festival, enjoy live music or find a free back-to-school event, this weekend’s Triangle calendar offers options across Raleigh, Durham, Cary, Chapel Hill and surrounding communities.

Event times, prices and availability can change. Check directly with each venue or organizer before leaving home.

Follow DoRaleigh.com for everything Raleigh and more Triangle-area event guides.

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Published by Bryan Tomlinson | BTDesigns.pro |

What to Expect at the 2026 Beer, Bourbon & BBQ Festival in Cary, NC

Beer, bourbon, barbecue and live music are coming together for two days at Cary’s Koka Booth Amphitheatre. The 2026 Beer, Bourbon & BBQ Festival takes place Friday, July 31, and Saturday, August 1, with more than 60 beers, over 40 bourbons, smoked meats, tasting seminars, games and live entertainment.

Festival admission includes a souvenir tasting glass and all-you-care-to-taste beer and bourbon samples. Here is what attendees should know before heading to the 2026 Beer, Bourbon & BBQ Festival in Cary.

2026 Cary Beer, Bourbon & BBQ Festival Details

• Dates: Friday, July 31, and Saturday, August 1, 2026
• Location: Koka Booth Amphitheatre
• Address: 8003 Regency Parkway, Cary, NC 27518
• Friday hours: 6–10 p.m.
• Saturday VIP hours: Noon–6 p.m.
• Saturday general admission hours: 2–6 p.m.
• Age requirement: Guests must be 21 or older to sample alcohol
• Tickets: Available through the official Cary Beer, Bourbon & BBQ Festival website⁠

More Than 100 Beer and Bourbon Options

The festival is expected to feature more than 60 beers and over 40 bourbons. Guests with tasting admission receive a souvenir glass that can be used for all-you-care-to-taste samples throughout their session.

Attendees can move from table to table, learn about different products and discover new favorites. The festival is structured around sampling, so guests are encouraged to drink responsibly and request half-pours when trying an unfamiliar beverage.

A new Local Beer Garden will put a spotlight on nearby breweries and regional flavors. Other beverage selections may include whiskey, spirits, wine and seltzers.

The festival’s official menu page currently says the complete 2026 beverage and food menu is still coming soon, so the final vendor and product lineup may continue to change. Check the official menu page⁠ for updates.

Plenty of Barbecue and Smoked Meats

The food is a major part of the Beer, Bourbon & BBQ Festival experience. Vendors are expected to serve a broad selection of barbecue, including:

• Pulled pork
• Whole hog
• Ribs
• Brisket
• Chicken
• Sausages
• Traditional barbecue sides and fixings

Food sold by festival vendors is generally separate from admission. However, Friday VIP, Saturday VIP and Grand Poobah tickets include a barbecue dinner platter.

The Shrine of Swine also returns with whole-hog presentations from Redneck Scientific. Scheduled Shrine of Swine times are Friday at 7:30 p.m. and Saturday at 1:30, 3 and 4 p.m.

Live Music Schedule

The festival’s Main Stage will feature rock, blues and bluegrass performances throughout the weekend.

Friday, July 31

CRUSH

• Performance time: 7:30–9:30 p.m.

Saturday, August 1

The Pheobes

• Performance time: 12:30–2 p.m.

Chris Taylor & The Rumor

• Performance time: 3–6 p.m.

The festival says schedule updates are continuing, so review the official entertainment schedule⁠ before attending.

Bourbon and Distilling Seminars

Guests can learn more about bourbon production, blending and barrel finishing during seminars in the festival’s Tasting Theatre. Presenters include master distillers, distillery owners and other beverage-industry professionals.

Friday Tasting Theatre Schedule

• 6 p.m. — The Magic of Cask Finishing: Beyond the Barrel with Charlotte’s Oaklore Distilling Co.
• 7 p.m. — Pouring History: The Harlem Hellfighters with Old Hillside Bourbon Company

Saturday Tasting Theatre Schedule

• 1 p.m. — The Art of the Blend: Inside Ole Raleigh Distillery with Master Blender Brandon McCraney
• 2:30 p.m. — From the Ship to the Shore with Hidden Ships Distillery owner Andy Szwejbka
• 3:30 p.m. — The Art of Blending and Finishing Bourbons with Liberty & Plenty Distilling
• 4:30 p.m. — We Serve Those Who Serve with On Your 6 Bourbon

Seminar space may be limited, so arriving early is a good idea for anyone interested in a particular presentation.

Games, Shopping and Festival Activities

Beer and bourbon are only part of the experience. The Cochon Carnival will feature oversized and outdoor games such as cornhole, giant Jenga and Connect Four.

Festivalgoers can also shop for breweriana, hot sauces, cookware, barbecue accessories and other specialty products from participating exhibitors.

2026 Ticket Prices

Ticket

Admission period

Advance price

Grand Poobah two-day pass

Friday, 6–10 p.m.; Saturday, noon–6 p.m.

$165 plus fees

Friday VIP

Friday, 6–10 p.m.

$79 plus fees

Friday general admission

Friday, 6–10 p.m.

$45 plus fees

Saturday VIP

Saturday, noon–6 p.m.

$79 plus fees

Saturday general admission

Saturday, 2–6 p.m.

$45 plus fees

Designated driver

Sold on-site only

$25

The limited Grand Poobah pass includes entry to every session, express admission, a souvenir tasting glass, unlimited sampling, Friday dinner, live entertainment, a special ticket-holder area and a merchandise bag.

VIP admission includes a barbecue dinner platter. Saturday VIP guests also receive two additional hours of festival access before general admission begins.

On-site tickets are expected to be available, but organizers warn that prices will be higher to cover taxes and fees. VIP tickets are limited and may sell out.

What to Bring

Guests participating in alcohol sampling must bring a valid photo ID. Everyone sampling alcohol will have their identification checked.

Other permitted items include:

• A clear bag no larger than 12 by 12 by 9 inches
• A small clutch no larger than 6 by 8 inches
• One factory-sealed plastic water bottle per person
• An empty reusable bottle
• A standard lawn chair without a canopy or footrest
• Raincoat or poncho
• Umbrella
• Stroller

Free water is available at rinse stations, and refill stations are located in the Cobblestone Courtyard.

Koka Booth Amphitheatre is primarily a cashless venue, and there are no ATMs on-site. Some independent festival vendors may accept cash, but guests should bring a debit or credit card.

What Not to Bring

Festival policies prohibit several items, including:

• Pets, except qualifying service animals
• Weapons
• Outside alcohol
• Coolers
• Outside food
• Drones
• Fireworks
• Grills or open flames
• Professional cameras with detachable lenses
• Audio or video recording equipment
• Wagons
• Tents
• Yoga mats
• Tables
• Large bags and backpacks

All bags are subject to inspection. Review Koka Booth Amphitheatre’s clear-bag rules and the festival’s complete FAQ and prohibited-items list⁠ before leaving home.

Parking and Transportation

Complimentary parking is available for most events in Koka Booth Amphitheatre’s venue-owned lots. The lots typically open one hour before the event.

Nearby private businesses may charge between $5 and $15 for parking. Those private parking operations are not endorsed by Koka Booth Amphitheatre or the Town of Cary.

A limited number of accessible parking spaces are available across from the main gate and box office. A valid accessible license plate or hang tag is required, and spaces are offered on a first-come, first-served basis.

The venue also has a designated pickup and drop-off area for Uber, Lyft and taxi passengers. Complete transportation information is available on the festival’s directions and parking page⁠.

Tips for Attending the Festival

• Buy tickets in advance to avoid higher on-site prices.
• Bring a valid ID if you plan to sample alcohol.
• Arrive early for parking, security screening and popular seminars.
• Eat before and during the festival.
• Ask for half-pours when sampling unfamiliar products.
• Alternate alcoholic samples with water.
• Bring a permitted lawn chair if you want seating.
• Use a designated driver or rideshare service.
• Check the weather and bring a poncho if rain is possible.
• Review the clear-bag policy before packing.

Re-entry is permitted as long as guests receive a hand stamp when exiting. Last call takes place approximately 20 minutes before the session ends, and alcohol service stops 15 minutes before closing.

Is the Cary Beer, Bourbon & BBQ Festival Worth Attending?

The festival offers more than a standard tasting event. Between its large beer and bourbon selection, smoked meats, live bands, educational seminars, whole-hog presentations and outdoor games, the weekend provides several ways to enjoy the experience.

Bourbon enthusiasts may get the most value from the Tasting Theatre and unlimited samples, while barbecue fans can explore food vendors and the Shrine of Swine. Music fans can spend much of the day near the Main Stage.

A portion of the event’s proceeds benefits the Spirit of Hope Children’s Foundation.

Follow DoRaleigh.com for everything Raleigh, Cary and the Triangle, including festival previews, weekend event guides, restaurant news and local entertainment.

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Published by Bryan Tomlinson | BTDesigns.pro |

Downtown Raleigh Weekend Event Guide July 24–26th Edition

Downtown Raleigh is packed with things to do from Friday, July 24, through Sunday, July 26, 2026. This weekend’s lineup includes GalaxyCon Raleigh, the Taste of Soul NC Finale, The Bubble Festival, history tours, live music, karaoke, rooftop yoga, food tours, nightlife and more.

Whether you want to learn about Raleigh’s history, relax with a wellness class, explore the city’s nightlife or attend a family-friendly festival, use this DoRaleigh guide to plan your weekend downtown.

Friday, July 24

A Taste of Downtown Raleigh Food Tour

Time: 12:45 p.m.
Meeting location: City of Raleigh Museum

Explore downtown Raleigh’s food scene while learning more about the people, businesses and stories shaping the city.

Friday Reset for the Weekend

Time: 1–3 p.m.
Location: Current Wellness

Ease into the weekend with a restorative wellness experience designed to help participants relax and recharge.

Downtown Raleigh Historian-Guided Tour

Time: 3 p.m.
Meeting location: Jimmy V’s Osteria + Bar

Discover downtown landmarks, architecture and local stories during a guided history tour.

Friday Nights at Flavor Hills

Time: 6–10 p.m.
Location: The Flavor Hills

The restaurant’s Friday Signature Experience combines dinner, drinks, music and a lively downtown atmosphere.

Independent Study at TBL Cafe

Time: 7–9 p.m.
Location: The Bike Library

Settle into the cafe for an evening study session or creative work in a community-focused environment.

Live Music at Wolfe & Porter

Time: 7–10 p.m.
Location: Wolfe & Porter

Enjoy live music, drinks and a relaxed Friday-night setting.

Crank Karaoke

Time: 8–11 p.m.
Location: Crank Arm Brewing

Take the microphone or cheer on local singers during one of downtown Raleigh’s popular karaoke nights.

Garden Grooves

Time: 8–11 p.m.
Location: Botanical Lounge

Garden Grooves brings music, cocktails and an upscale nightlife atmosphere to Botanical Lounge.

Signature Fridays Featuring DJ Drop

Time: 9 p.m.–1 a.m.
Location: Haymaker

DJ Drop provides the soundtrack for a late-night Friday party at Haymaker.

Late Nights at Neptunes

Time: 10 p.m.–2 a.m.
Location: Neptunes Parlour

Keep the night going with music, drinks and dancing beneath downtown Raleigh.

Saturday, July 25

Pilates Mat Class

Time: 9:30–10:15 a.m.
Location: Heights Pilates

Begin Saturday with a guided mat Pilates class focused on movement, balance and core strength.

Downtown Raleigh Black History Tour

Time: 10–11:30 a.m.
Location: Pope House Museum

Explore downtown Raleigh’s Black history and learn about the people, places and events that helped shape the city.

The Davie’s Seventh Annual Customer Appreciation Party

Time: Noon–2 a.m.
Location: The Davie

The Davie celebrates its customers with an extended anniversary party continuing late into the night.

Cozy Saturday Featuring DJ JMar—The Wizard

Location: Haymaker

DJ JMar—The Wizard brings the music to Haymaker for a relaxed but energetic Saturday gathering.

A Taste of Downtown Raleigh Food Tour

Time: 2:30 p.m.
Meeting location: City of Raleigh Museum

Sample downtown flavors while discovering more about Raleigh’s history and culinary community.

Belgian Beer Class

Time: 4 p.m.
Location: Flying Saucer Draught Emporium

Learn about Belgian beer styles, brewing traditions and flavor profiles during this educational tasting experience.

Mahjong Meetup

Time: 4–7 p.m.
Location: Parcero Studio

Meet other players and enjoy an afternoon of mahjong in a social studio setting. Not for beginners.

Meaningful Laughs: A Comedy Show About Self-Care

Time: 7–8:30 p.m.
Location: Current Wellness

Comedy and wellness come together during a show exploring self-care through humor.

SNL at Killjoy

Time: 9 p.m.–1 a.m.
Location: Killjoy

DJ Deluxe and Knu Element Entertainment lead a high-energy Saturday-night party at Killjoy.

Late Nights at Neptunes

Time: 10 p.m.–2 a.m.
Location: Neptunes Parlour

Neptunes keeps the downtown nightlife moving into early Sunday morning.

Sunday, July 26

Sunday Brunch and Live Music

Time: 9 a.m.–noon
Location: Good Day Good Night

Start Sunday with brunch and live music inside the Casso Hotel.

Sunday Run Club

Time: 9–10:30 a.m.
Location: The Bike Library

Join local runners for a social Sunday-morning route through Raleigh.

Rooftop Yoga

Time: 10–11 a.m.
Location: The Willard Rooftop Lounge

Practice yoga above the city while enjoying rooftop views of downtown Raleigh.

The Bubble Festival

Time: 11 a.m.–4 p.m.
Location: Moore Square

This family-friendly downtown festival fills Moore Square with bubbles, activities and outdoor fun.

The Davie’s Seventh Annual Customer Appreciation Party

Time: Noon–2 a.m.
Location: The Davie

The Davie continues its annual customer celebration with another full day of festivities.

Morgan Street Sessions

Time: Noon–4 p.m.
Location: Morgan Street Food Hall

Enjoy live entertainment alongside a wide selection of food and drinks from the hall’s vendors.

Free Air Hockey Tournament

Time: 1 p.m.
Admission: Free
Location: Super Rad Retro Lounge

Test your skills or watch the competition during a free retro air-hockey tournament.

Taste of Soul NC Finale

Time: 1–8 p.m.
Location: City Plaza

The Taste of Soul NC Finale brings food, music, vendors and community celebration to the heart of downtown Raleigh.

Cocktails & Cuisine Class: Firecracker Sparks Edition

Time: 2–3:30 p.m.
Location: The Willard Rooftop Lounge

Learn new food-and-drink techniques during a themed rooftop cocktails and cuisine class.

Java Jazz at TBL Cafe

Time: 2–4 p.m.
Location: The Bike Library

Relax with coffee and live jazz during a laid-back Sunday afternoon performance.

Raleigh African American History Tour

Time: 4–5 p.m.
Meeting location: Jimmy V’s Osteria + Bar

Learn about Raleigh’s African American history and the people who influenced the city’s development.

Repotting Clinic

Time: 5–7 p.m.
Location: Copperline Plant Co.

Bring your plant questions and learn practical repotting techniques during this hands-on clinic.

Good Day Good Night Restaurant Week Closing

Time: 5–10 p.m.
Location: Good Day Good Night

Enjoy the final evening of the restaurant’s special Downtown Raleigh Restaurant Week experience.

Gay for Country Karaoke

Time: 8 p.m.–midnight
Location: Neptunes Parlour

Close out the weekend with an inclusive country-themed karaoke party.

GalaxyCon Raleigh Closing Day

Location: Raleigh Convention Center

Sunday is the final day of GalaxyCon Raleigh. Fans have one more opportunity to enjoy celebrity appearances, cosplay, comics, gaming, panels, vendors and pop-culture programming.

Plan Your Downtown Raleigh Weekend

This downtown Raleigh weekend offers a full mix of daytime activities and nightlife. Families can visit The Bubble Festival, food lovers can explore Taste of Soul NC or join a downtown food tour, and music fans can choose from live jazz, DJ sets, karaoke and Sunday sessions.

Event schedules, prices, registration requirements and availability may change. Confirm details directly with the venue or organizer before attending.

Follow DoRaleigh.com for everything Raleigh, including local events, nightlife, city government coverage and community news.

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City of Raleigh Government Weekend Event Guide July 25–26th Edition

The City of Raleigh’s weekend calendar features technology assistance, local art, water-safety education and live summer music on Saturday, July 25, and Sunday, July 26, 2026.

Residents can receive help with their electronic devices, attend the closing reception for an exhibition at Pullen Arts Center, participate in a World Drowning Prevention Day clinic or close out the weekend with Raleigh’s Summer Concert Series.

Saturday, July 25, 2026

Advice About Your Device Drop-In Hours

Time: 1 p.m.
Category: Community and Workshops
City department: Community Engagement

Need help using a smartphone, tablet, laptop or another electronic device? Advice About Your Device Drop-In Hours gives Raleigh residents an opportunity to receive assistance and improve their technology skills.

The drop-in format makes the program an accessible option for residents who have questions about their devices, digital tools or everyday technology.

Closing Reception: “Artifacts—Storytelling Through Material Forms”

Time: 2:30 p.m.
Location: Pullen Arts Center
Category: Art Exhibit
City department: Arts and Entertainment

Pullen Arts Center will host the closing reception for “Artifacts: Storytelling Through Material Forms.”

The exhibition explores how artists use materials and physical objects to communicate ideas, preserve memories and tell stories. The reception offers visitors a final opportunity to experience the exhibition and engage with Raleigh’s creative community.

World Drowning Prevention Day Clinic

Time: 4 p.m.
Category: Parks, Recreation and Athletics
Registration: Required through RecLink

The City of Raleigh will recognize World Drowning Prevention Day with an educational clinic focused on water awareness and safety.

The program provides an important opportunity for participants to learn practices that may help prevent water-related emergencies. Advance registration is required through the City of Raleigh’s RecLink system.

Sunday, July 26, 2026

Summer Concert Series

Time: 6 p.m.
Category: Parks, Recreation and Athletics

End the weekend with live entertainment at the City of Raleigh Summer Concert Series.

The Sunday evening program offers residents and visitors an opportunity to enjoy music, connect with the community and experience summer in Raleigh. Attendees should check the city’s event listing for the concert location, featured performer and any venue-specific policies.

Make Plans for a City of Raleigh Event

From practical technology assistance and visual art to water-safety education and live music, Raleigh’s weekend calendar offers several ways to learn, connect and enjoy the city.

Event details, locations and registration availability may change. Confirm the latest information through the City of Raleigh before attending. Programs requiring registration may reach capacity.

Follow DoRaleigh.com for everything Raleigh, including city government meetings, public programs, community events and weekend entertainment.

By Bryan Tomlinson, Editor, DoRaleigh.com

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City of Raleigh Weekend Event Guide – July 18–19, 2026

The City of Raleigh is offering several ways to connect with the community this weekend, including a public meeting about Biltmore Hills Park, a dance workshop, a soccer watch party and a free summer concert.

Here’s what’s happening across Raleigh on Saturday, July 18, and Sunday, July 19, 2026.

Saturday, July 18

Help Shape the Future of Biltmore Hills Park

Time: 10 a.m.
Category: Community Engagement; Parks, Recreation and Athletics; Open Houses and Public Hearings

Residents are invited to help shape the future of Biltmore Hills Park. This community engagement event gives neighbors and park users an opportunity to learn about upcoming plans, provide feedback and share what they would like to see at the Southeast Raleigh park.

Public participation can help city officials better understand how residents currently use the park and which facilities, programs or improvements should be priorities.

Anyone who lives near Biltmore Hills Park, regularly visits the property or has an interest in Raleigh’s parks system should consider attending.

Common or Complicated… One Thread Dance Workshop

Time: 10 a.m.
Category: Parks, Recreation and Athletics
Registration: Advance registration is available through RecLink.

Explore movement and creative expression during the “Common or Complicated… One Thread” dance workshop. Presented through Raleigh Parks, the program offers participants an opportunity to learn, move and connect through dance.

Space may be limited. Participants should register through the City of Raleigh’s RecLink system and review the program listing for eligibility requirements, fees and additional instructions.

Sunday, July 19

Moore Square Soccer Watch Party

Time: 3 p.m.
Location: Moore Square, Downtown Raleigh
Category: Parks, Recreation and Athletics

Soccer fans can gather in the heart of downtown Raleigh for a community watch party at Moore Square. The outdoor event offers residents and visitors a lively place to experience the excitement of a major soccer match alongside other fans.

Attendees should consider bringing a lawn chair or blanket. Downtown restaurants and businesses also provide plenty of options for food and refreshments before or after the match.

Plans for outdoor events can change because of severe weather, so check the City of Raleigh’s official event listing before heading downtown.

Raleigh Summer Concert Series

Time: 6 p.m.
Category: Parks, Recreation and Athletics

Wrap up the weekend with live music during the City of Raleigh’s Summer Concert Series. The program brings residents together for an evening of entertainment in one of Raleigh’s public spaces.

The concert is a great option for families, couples and anyone looking for an affordable Sunday evening activity. Bring seating if permitted and review the City’s event page for the featured performer, location, parking information and weather updates.

Get Involved With the City of Raleigh

This weekend’s schedule highlights the variety of programs available through the City of Raleigh. Residents can participate in park planning, take a recreational workshop, cheer with fellow soccer fans or enjoy live music.

Event times, locations and registration requirements are subject to change. Confirm the latest information through the City of Raleigh’s official calendar or RecLink before attending.

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Triangle Weekend Event Guide – Things to Do July 18–19, 2026

Looking for things to do in Raleigh, Durham, Cary and across the Triangle this weekend? The Triangle Event Guide for Saturday, July 18, and Sunday, July 19, 2026, features free markets, outdoor concerts, family movies, garden tours, food celebrations and World Cup watch parties.

Many activities are free, making this a great weekend to explore the Triangle without stretching your budget.

Saturday, July 18

All-day events

• Downtown Raleigh Restaurant Week — Participating downtown Raleigh restaurants
• Free Dilly Bar with a $1 purchase — Dairy Queen locations; one redemption per customer

Morning events

• Tomato Day — 8 a.m.–12 p.m. | Durham Farmers’ Market | Limited-edition merchandise available
• Durham Craft Market — 8 a.m.–12 p.m. | Durham Central Park | Free
• Dog Day at Grace — 9–11 a.m. | Grace Lutheran Church, Durham | Free
• Free Watermelon at the UCAN Farmers’ Market — 9 a.m.–12 p.m. | Catawba Trail Farm, Durham
• The Raleigh Market — 9 a.m.–5 p.m. | NC State Fairgrounds | Free
• Summer Open Nursery and Garden Days — 9 a.m.–5 p.m. | Plant Delights Nursery and Juniper Level Botanic Garden | Free
• Black History Walking Tour — 10–11 a.m. | Pope House, Raleigh | $6–$10
• Intro to Invasive Species — 10–11:30 a.m. | Historic Yates Mill County Park | Free
• Millbrook United Methodist Church Food Pantry — 10 a.m.–12 p.m. | Raleigh | Free
• Mill Open House — 10 a.m.–1 p.m. | Historic Yates Mill County Park | Free
• Open Farm — 10 a.m.–5 p.m. | Sunrise Community Farm Center, Chapel Hill | $8
• Retro Family Series: “Walt Disney’s Beauty and the Beast” — 11 a.m. | Carolina Theatre, Durham | Free
• Historic Raleigh Trolley Tours — 11 a.m.–3 p.m. | Mordecai Historic Park | $6–$10; four departure times
• NC State Capitol Guided Tours — 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. | Raleigh | Free
• Fenton Makers Market — 11 a.m.–4 p.m. | Fenton, Cary | Free

Afternoon events

• Summer Vendor Market — 12–4 p.m. | Compass Rose Brewery, Raleigh | Free
• Hot Dogs with Chad — 12–5 p.m. | D’s Bottle Shop and Craft Beer College | Free hot dog with a pint purchase
• Oaklyn Springs Brewery’s Eighth Anniversary Party — 12–10 p.m. | Fuquay-Varina | Free
• Durham Really Really Free Market — 12–2 p.m. | Orchard Park, Durham
• Pop-Up Raleigh Art & Vintage Market — 12–5 p.m. | Trophy on Maywood | Free
• Dog Adoption Event — 1–4 p.m. | Sneaky Penguin Brewing Company, Raleigh
• Dog Days of Summer — 2–8 p.m. | Gizmo Brew Works, Raleigh | Free
• “Pirates! A Boy at Sea” — 2 p.m. | Burning Coal Theatre Company, Raleigh | $10–$15
• Book Harvest’s Summer Block Party — 3–6 p.m. | Durham Central Park | Free
• Gypsy Railroad — 3 p.m. | Raleigh Brewing | Free
• Irish Music Jam — 3–5 p.m. | Moon Dog Meadery, Durham | Free
• American Craft Council Open Studios — 4–8 p.m. | Liberty Arts, Durham | Free

Saturday night events

• Plum Perfect Party — 5–9 p.m. | The Plant, Pittsboro | Free
• World Cup Watch Party — 5 p.m. | Fortnight Brewing, Cary | Free
• Saturdays in Saxapahaw Outdoor Concert Series — 5–8 p.m. | Haw River Ballroom area, Saxapahaw | Free
• Live Music — 5–8 p.m. | Gizmo Brew Works locations in Raleigh and Durham | Free
• Raleigh Twilight Market — 5:30–9:30 p.m. | Smoky Hollow, Raleigh | Free
• Live Music — 6–9 p.m. | Fortnight Brewing, Wake Forest | Free
• Beer Garden Concert Series — 6–9 p.m. | Glass Jug Beer Lab, RTP | Free
• Live Music — 6:30–9 p.m. | Southern Peak Brewery, Apex | Free
• Live Music Saturdays — 7–10 p.m. | Bombshell Beer Company, Holly Springs | Free
• Kevin Lee — 7 p.m. | Bearded Bee Brewing Company, Wendell | Free
• “Pirates! A Boy at Sea” — 7 p.m. | Burning Coal Theatre Company, Raleigh | $10–$15
• Family Movie Night: “Mufasa: The Lion King” — 7:30 p.m. | E. Carroll Joyner Park, Wake Forest | Free
• Sacred Grounds Coffeehouse Concert — 7:30 p.m. | Durham | Free
• Open Mic and Karaoke Night — 8–11 p.m. | Compass Rose Brewery, Raleigh | Free
• Movie Night — 8:30 p.m. | Steel String Brewery at Pluck Farm, Mebane | Free

Sunday, July 19

All-day and morning events

• Downtown Raleigh Restaurant Week — Participating downtown restaurants
• Free Dilly Bar with a $1 purchase — Dairy Queen locations; one redemption
• The Raleigh Market — 9 a.m.–5 p.m. | NC State Fairgrounds | Free
• Summer Open Nursery and Garden Days — 9 a.m.–5 p.m. | Plant Delights Nursery | Free
• Yoga Flow & Chill — 10–10:45 a.m. | Weaver Street Market Raleigh | Pay what you can
• Mill Open House — 10 a.m.–1 p.m. | Historic Yates Mill County Park | Free
• Live Music by Dr. Scott — 11 a.m.–1 p.m. | Lanza’s Cafe, Carrboro | Free
• Sunday Morning Yoga — 11 a.m.–12 p.m. | Compass Rose Brewery, Raleigh | Free
• Sunday Brunch Music — 11 a.m.–1 p.m. | Weaver Street Market Carrboro | Free
• Phone-Free Fun — 11 a.m.–9 p.m. | Glass Jug Downtown Durham Taproom | Free

Markets, music and National Ice Cream Day

Celebrate National Ice Cream Day at LocoPops’ Foster Street and Hillsborough Road locations in Durham from 12–8 p.m. Other Sunday afternoon activities include:

• Hillsborough Really Really Free Market — 12–2 p.m. | Gold Park
• Morgan Street Sessions — 12–4 p.m. | Morgan Street Food Hall, Raleigh
• Kanikapila Ukulele Meetup — 1–3 p.m. | KōMANA Brewing Company, Cary
• Black Farmers’ Market — 1–4 p.m. | Durham Technical Community College
• Sunday Board Games — 1–5 p.m. | Guildhall Games at Boxyard RTP
• Free Air Hockey Tournament — 1 p.m. | Super Rad Retro Lounge, Raleigh
• Free Yoga — 2–3 p.m. | City of Raleigh Museum
• “Pirates! A Boy at Sea” — 2 p.m. | Burning Coal Theatre Company | $10–$15
• Cameron Nesbit — 3–6 p.m. | Crooked Hammock Brewery, Raleigh | Free
• Ryan Mullaney — 3–6 p.m. | Oaklyn Springs Taproom, Fuquay-Varina | Free
• Open Mic with Adam Lee Decker — 3–6 p.m. | Blackbird Brewery, Wake Forest

World Cup Final watch parties

Soccer fans will have several places to watch the World Cup Final beginning at 3 p.m. Sunday:

• Moore Square, Raleigh
• Tap Yard, Raleigh
• Raleigh Brewing
• Downtown Cary Park
• Fortnight Brewing, Cary
• West 94th Street Pub, Durham

These gatherings are listed as free, although food and drinks are sold separately.

More Sunday afternoon and evening events

• Oak City Locksport Meetup — 3 p.m. | Raleigh Brewing | Free
• Craft Club and Supply Swap — 3–5 p.m. | Glass Jug Downtown Durham Taproom
• Open Mic Night — 3–6 p.m. | Gizmo Brew Works, Raleigh
• Free Ice Cream Social — 4–6 p.m. | Fuquay Mineral Spring Park
• Bluegrass Open Jam — 4–7 p.m. | Bond Brothers Eastside, Cary
• Raleigh Concert Series: Thelonius — 6–8 p.m. | Fred Fletcher Park, Raleigh | Free
• Open Mic Night — 6–9 p.m. | Clouds Brewing Taproom, Raleigh
• Sundays at Sundown — 7–9 p.m. | Southern Village, Chapel Hill | Free
• Sunday Open Mic — 7–9 p.m. | Moon Dog Meadery, Durham | Free

Plan your Triangle weekend

Schedules, admission policies and weather-related plans can change. Check with each organizer or venue before leaving home, particularly for outdoor events.

Follow DoRaleigh.com for everything Raleigh, including weekend events, free activities, local government news and community resources.

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Triangle Event Guide Weekend Edition (June 26–28, 2026)

Looking for the best things to do in the Triangle this weekend? From Out! Raleigh Pride, free concerts, art walks, markets, family activities, food festivals, and live music to community celebrations, there’s something happening across Raleigh, Durham, Cary, Chapel Hill, Apex, Pittsboro, Hillsborough, and beyond.

Whether you’re planning a family outing, date night, or weekend adventure, here’s your guide to some of the best events happening Friday, June 26 through Sunday, June 28, 2026.

Friday, June 26 Highlights

Kick off the weekend with dozens of free events throughout the Triangle.

Don’t Miss

• Out! Raleigh Pride Friday Night Celebration on Fayetteville Street in Downtown Raleigh
• Carrboro Orgullo Pride Celebration and Pride Piper Walk
• Raleigh Money Expo at the NC State Fairgrounds
• Free Curious George Kids Movie at Triangle Cinemas
• Kidical Mass Family Bike Ride in Raleigh
• Last Fridays Art Walk and Makers Market in Hillsborough
• Final Friday Cary Art Loop
• Hillsborough Street Makers & Music Series
• Live music across Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill, Knightdale, Pittsboro, and Cary
• Dance with the Raleigh International Folk Dancers
• Karaoke, open mic nights, drum circles, plant bingo, and comedy showcases

Saturday, June 27 Highlights

Saturday is packed with family-friendly events, festivals, concerts, and outdoor activities.

Featured Events

• Out! Raleigh Pride Festival in Downtown Raleigh
• Knowing the West Community Day at the North Carolina Museum of Art
• The Raleigh Market at the State Fairgrounds
• Historic Raleigh Trolley Tours
• Free Guided Tours of the North Carolina State Capitol
• Raleigh Flodown: Goose Pre-Party
• Triangle Pride Symphonic Band 10th Anniversary Celebration
• CaryLive! Concert Series featuring Abraham Alexander
• Durham Summer Concerts in the Park
• Franklinton Independence Day Celebration
• Book Harvest Pride Celebration
• Touch-a-Truck with Durham Fire Department
• Community giveaways, farmers markets, yoga, art exhibits, and live entertainment throughout the region.

Sunday, June 28 Highlights

Wrap up your weekend with relaxing markets, music, wellness activities, and community events.

Sunday Favorites

• Raleigh Market
• Durham Underground Market
• Morgan Street Sessions
• Black Farmers’ Market
• FREE Produce Giveaways in Raleigh
• LEGO Stadium Build Events
• Disco Summer: Pride Edition
• Raleigh Concert Series featuring Triangle Taiko at Pullen Park
• Sunday yoga classes
• Open mic performances
• Live bluegrass and acoustic music
• Board games, book clubs, craft swaps, and family activities

Weekend Deals

Take advantage of these special offers throughout the weekend:

• Whole Foods Market: 50% off select ice cream and frozen treats
• Multiple free concerts and festivals
• Free museum programs
• Free farmers markets
• Free family activities throughout Wake, Durham, Orange, Chatham, and Johnston counties

Plan Your Weekend

Whether you’re celebrating Pride Month, enjoying live music, shopping local markets, exploring museums, attending community festivals, or simply spending time outdoors, this weekend offers hundreds of opportunities across the Triangle.

Many events are FREE, making it easy to enjoy everything the region has to offer without breaking the budget.

Keep checking DoRaleigh.com throughout the weekend for breaking event updates, local news, restaurant recommendations, and even more things to do across Raleigh and the Triangle.

Follow DoRaleigh.com for your daily guide to events, entertainment, food, festivals, community news, and everything happening across Raleigh, Durham, Cary, Chapel Hill, and the Triangle.

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City of Raleigh Government Guide: Juneteenth Weekend Events and Community Activities (June 18-21, 2026)

Looking for ways to stay engaged with local government, celebrate Juneteenth, and enjoy family-friendly activities this weekend in Raleigh? The City of Raleigh has a full lineup of meetings, educational programs, cultural events, and community celebrations happening from June 18 through June 21, 2026.

From Juneteenth festivities at Chavis Park to public board meetings, historic trolley tours, outdoor movies, and live music, there is something for residents of all ages to enjoy.

Thursday, June 18, 2026

Raleigh Commission for Persons with Disabilities Meeting

Time: 12:00 PM
Residents are encouraged to attend and learn more about initiatives focused on accessibility, inclusion, and improving quality of life for individuals with disabilities throughout Raleigh.

Lunchbox Lecture: Mapping Raleigh’s LGBTQIA+ History

Time: 12:00 PM
This educational program explores the rich history and contributions of Raleigh’s LGBTQIA+ community through stories, maps, and historical perspectives.

Design Review Commission Meeting

Time: 4:30 PM
The commission reviews major development projects and urban design proposals that shape Raleigh’s future growth and appearance.

Parks, Recreation and Greenway Advisory Board

Time: 6:00 PM
Community members can learn about upcoming park improvements, greenway projects, recreation programs, and public space initiatives.

Friday, June 19, 2026 – Juneteenth

Juneteenth Holiday

The City of Raleigh observes Juneteenth, commemorating the emancipation of enslaved African Americans and celebrating Black freedom, culture, and achievement.

Juneteenth: A Chavis Celebration

Time: 10:00 AM
Location: John Chavis Memorial Park

One of Raleigh’s signature Juneteenth celebrations returns with family-friendly activities, live entertainment, community resources, cultural programming, food vendors, and opportunities to connect with neighbors and local organizations.

The Road From Emancipation to Freedom

Time: 2:00 PM

This special program explores the journey from emancipation to modern-day freedom through historical discussion, storytelling, and community reflection.

Saturday, June 20, 2026

Black History Trolley Tour

Time: 11:00 AM

Take a guided journey through Raleigh’s African American history. Participants will visit significant landmarks and learn about the people and events that helped shape the city’s cultural and civic landscape.

2026 Raleigh Hoop Nights Kick-Off Event

Time: 3:00 PM

Raleigh Hoop Nights returns for another season of community engagement through basketball, mentorship, entertainment, and positive youth development.

NCMA Movie Night: Shrek

Time: 6:00 PM

Enjoy a free outdoor movie experience with family and friends as the beloved animated classic Shrek comes to the big screen under the stars.

Sunday, June 21, 2026

Summer Concert Series

Time: 6:00 PM

Wrap up the weekend with live music and community fellowship during the City of Raleigh’s popular Summer Concert Series. Bring a chair or blanket and enjoy an evening of entertainment outdoors.

Why This Weekend Matters

This Juneteenth weekend offers opportunities to celebrate history, support community engagement, participate in local government, and enjoy free family-friendly activities throughout Raleigh. Whether you’re interested in civic involvement, cultural education, outdoor recreation, or live entertainment, the City of Raleigh’s event calendar provides plenty of ways to connect with your community.

For more local government updates, community news, and events happening across Raleigh and the Triangle, follow DoRaleigh.com.

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Published by Bryan Tomlinson | DoRaleigh.com

Downtown Raleigh Weekend Event Guide: June 12-14, 2026

Looking for things to do in Downtown Raleigh this weekend? From Pride Month celebrations and live music to theater performances, food tours, nightlife, and family-friendly activities, Downtown Raleigh is packed with events from Friday, June 12 through Sunday, June 14, 2026.

Whether you’re planning a date night, exploring Raleigh’s history, celebrating Pride Month, or just looking for a great weekend out, this guide has something for everyone.

Friday, June 12 Highlights

Kick off your weekend with a variety of entertainment options throughout downtown Raleigh.

Arts & Culture

• Burning Coal Theatre Presents Danger! by Lucius Robinson (7:30 PM)
• Museum Movie Night: The Goonies at the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences (5:30 PM)
• Downtown Raleigh Historian-Guided Tour (3 PM)
• Raleigh Pride Month Walking Tour (6:15 PM)

Live Music & Nightlife

• Garden Grooves at Botanical Lounge (8 PM)
• Live Music featuring Tanner Hunt at The Bike Library (7 PM)
• Renata The Band at Tin Roof (8 PM)
• Rattletraps at Slim’s Downtown (9 PM)
• Signature Fridays featuring DJ Drop at Haymaker (9 PM)
• RELOADED: A Black Pride Party at Bitter Social (9 PM)

Food, Drinks & Fun

• Boatman Distillery Tours (3 PM – 7 PM)
• Salsa Night at Boatman Spirits (10 PM)
• Crank Karaoke at Crank Arm Brewing (8 PM)
• A Taste of Downtown Raleigh Food Tour (12:45 PM)
• Late Nights at Neptunes Parlour (10 PM – 2 AM)

Saturday, June 13 Highlights

Saturday brings Pride celebrations, live entertainment, theater, and one of the biggest R&B concerts of the weekend.

Pride Month Events

• 5th Annual Pride Market & Drag Show at Hartwell (12 PM – 4 PM)
• Raleigh Pride Month Walking Tour (6 PM)

Theater & History

• Burning Coal Theatre Presents Shadows in Red Light (2 PM)
• Opening Weekend of Dr. Ride’s American Beach House
• Opening Day of Juneteenth Tours at the Dr. M.T. Pope House Museum

Music & Entertainment

• R&B Soul Session featuring Dave Hollister, Changing Faces, Case, and Adina Howard at Martin Marietta Center (8 PM)
• Saturday Night Spins at Boatman Spirits (8 PM)
• SAT NIGHT VINYL at Sir Walter Coffee & Kitchen
• SNL at Killjoy with DJ Deluxe (9 PM)
• Whoop at Slim’s Downtown (8 PM)

Fitness, Food & Community

• Pilates Mat Class at Heights Pilates (9:30 AM)
• Sir Walter Summer Day Party (12 PM – 5 PM)
• Boatman Distillery Tours (3 PM – 7 PM)
• A Taste of Downtown Raleigh Food Tour (2:30 PM)

Sunday, June 14 Highlights

Wrap up the weekend with sports, jazz, community events, and Pride celebrations.

Sports & Community

• Closing Day of Soccer Square Fan Fest at Moore Square
• Stanley Cup Finals Game 6 Watch Party at Crank Arm Brewing
• Sunday Run Club at The Bike Library (9 AM)

Arts, History & Learning

• Raleigh African American History Tour (4 PM)
• Houseplant Pests 101 at Copperline Plant Co. (12 PM)
• Erotic Poetry with the Redbud Writing Project (1 PM)

Live Music & Entertainment

• Jazz Sundays with Workbook at Incendiary Brewing (2 PM)
• Smooth & Sexy Jazz Sunday at Element Gastropub (6 PM)
• Why The Hell Knot at Slim’s Downtown (8 PM)

Pride Month Events

• Pride on the Patio at Boxcar Bar + Arcade (5 PM)
• Raleigh Pride Month Walking Tour (6 PM)

Family Fun & Games

• FREE Air Hockey Tournament at Super Rad Retro Lounge (1 PM)
• Boatman Distillery Tours (12 PM – 4 PM)

Weekend Spotlight

This weekend’s biggest events include:

• 5th Annual Pride Market & Drag Show
• RELOADED: A Black Pride Party
• Dave Hollister, Case, Changing Faces & Adina Howard
• Juneteenth Tours at the Dr. M.T. Pope House Museum
• Soccer Square Fan Fest Finale
• Stanley Cup Finals Watch Party
• Museum Movie Night featuring The Goonies

With Pride Month celebrations, Juneteenth programming, live music, theater, food tours, and community gatherings happening throughout Downtown Raleigh, this is one of the most diverse and exciting weekends of the summer.

Stay connected with DoRaleigh.com for daily event guides, local news, and everything happening across Raleigh and the Triangle.

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Downtown Raleigh Event Guide Weekend Edition: Artsplosure, Beauty and the Beast, Nightlife & Weekend Fun (May 15–17, 2026)

Looking for the best things to do in Downtown Raleigh this weekend? From live performances and festivals to food tours, nightlife, fitness events, art exhibits, and karaoke, Downtown Raleigh is packed with entertainment and community events all weekend long.

This weekend’s highlights include Artsplosure on Fayetteville Street, Carolina Ballet’s production of Beauty and the Beast, nightlife at Neptunes Parlour, guided history tours, wellness events, and live music throughout Downtown Raleigh.

Friday, May 15, 2026

Carolina Ballet Presents: Beauty and the Beast

Experience an unforgettable performance of Beauty and the Beast from Carolina Ballet at Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts. Performances include evening and matinee showings throughout the weekend.

Time: 7:30 p.m. evening performance / 2 p.m. matinee

Adult Nights: Social in the Shire

Enjoy a fantasy-themed adults-only evening at the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences with themed activities, social experiences, and entertainment.

Time: 6:30 p.m. – 10 p.m.

Downtown Raleigh Historian-Guided Tour

Explore Raleigh history through a guided downtown tour departing from Jimmy V’s Osteria + Bar.

Time: 3 p.m.

Friday Nightlife Highlights

• Crank Karaoke at Crank Arm Brewing
• Garden Grooves at Botanical Lounge
• Late Nights at Neptunes
• Salsa Night at Boatman Spirits Co.
• Live music with You Me & Kyle at Slim’s Downtown

Downtown Food & Drink Experiences

• Boatman Distillery Tour
• A Taste of Downtown Raleigh Food Tours at City of Raleigh Museum

Saturday, May 16, 2026

Artsplosure

Downtown Raleigh’s major arts festival returns to Fayetteville Street with live entertainment, art vendors, interactive exhibits, local food, and family-friendly activities.

Time: 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Gallery & Art Openings

• Opening: Black Mountain College: Avant-Garde Art from the Experimental School, 1933–1957 at Gallery C
• TG Floristry “Flow & Flora Series”

Community Events & Wellness

• Pilates Mat Class at Heights Pilates
• Neighborhood Mulberry Stroll + Sip at Current Wellness
• Mahjong at Parcero Studio
• Girls Night at Sir Walter Coffee

Saturday Night Downtown

• Saturday Night Spins at Boatman Spirits
• Late Nights at Neptunes
• Boatman Distillery Tours continue throughout the day

Sunday, May 17, 2026

Final Day of Artsplosure

Spend Sunday exploring artists, performances, vendors, and food at Fayetteville Street during the final day of Artsplosure.

Art & Creative Experiences

• Artspace Open Studio at Artspace
• Erotic Poetry with the Redbud Writing Project
• Paint A Pot at Copperline Plant Co.

Fitness & Wellness Events

• Sunday Run Club at The Bike Library
• Bikes Mean Business: Self-Care Sunday
• Pride Flow yoga session at Current Wellness
• Yoga for Beginners at Current Wellness

History & Community Tours

• Raleigh African American History Tour departing from Jimmy V’s Osteria + Bar

Sunday Night Fun

• Emo Karaoke at Neptunes Parlour
• FREE Air Hockey Tournament at Super Rad Retro Lounge

Best Things To Do in Downtown Raleigh This Weekend

Top weekend picks include:

• Artsplosure
• Carolina Ballet’s Beauty and the Beast
• Downtown Raleigh food tours
• Adult Nights at the NC Museum of Natural Sciences
• Late-night karaoke and live music
• Artspace Open Studio
• Raleigh African American History Tour
• Wellness events at Current Wellness

Whether you’re looking for live entertainment, arts and culture, nightlife, food experiences, fitness events, or family-friendly fun, Downtown Raleigh has something happening all weekend long.

Follow DoRaleigh.com for daily updates on government meetings, local festivals, and community happenings — your one-stop guide to everything Raleigh!

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Downtown Raleigh Weekend Event Guide: Mother’s Day Brunches, Spring Festivals, Markets & More (May 9-10, 2026)

Looking for the best things to do in Downtown Raleigh this weekend? From Mother’s Day brunches and rooftop tea experiences to spring festivals, live music, markets, cocktail classes, and family-friendly events, Downtown Raleigh is packed with activities for May 9-10, 2026.

This weekend’s highlights include Raleigh’s Spring Festival at Moore Square, the Ma & Pa Festival on Fayetteville Street, Mother’s Day rooftop brunches, jazz Sundays, artisan markets, cocktail flights, and free family programming at the City of Raleigh Museum. Whether you’re planning a girls’ day out, family weekend, or date night in Raleigh, there’s something happening across downtown all weekend long.

Saturday, May 9, 2026 Events in Downtown Raleigh

Mother’s Day & Spring Celebrations

• Mother’s Day High Tea Cocktail Flight —  Dram & Draught
• Raleigh’s Spring Festival – A Mother’s Day Tribute — 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. at Moore Square
• Raleigh’s Spring Festival — 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. at Moore Square
• Mother’s Day Market @ Videri — 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. at Videri Chocolate Factory
• Made with Love: A Mother’s Day Bracelet Workshop — 1 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. at Artspace
• Shake it with Mom! A Mother’s Day Cocktail Class — 3 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. at Killjoy

Festivals, Markets & Family Fun

• Ma & Pa Festival — 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. on Fayetteville Street
• TBL Spring Market — 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. at The Bike Library
• Family Fun Day: Airplanes — 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. at City of Raleigh Museum
• Black Joy in the Springtime — 2 p.m. – 3 p.m. at Pope House Museum

Live Music, Nightlife & Entertainment

• Bright Modern — 8 p.m. – 10 p.m. at Slim’s Downtown
• Saturday Night Spins — 8 p.m. – 12 a.m. at Boatman Spirits Co.
• TIKI FEST — 5 p.m. – 12 a.m. at Wolfe & Porter
• Late Nights at Neptunes! — 10 p.m. – 2 a.m. at Neptunes Parlour
• SIR WALTER SUMMER DAY PARTIES — 12 p.m. – 5 p.m. at Sir Walter Coffee & Kitchen

Arts, Culture & Wellness

• Cary Ballet Company – Peter Pan — 1:30 p.m. & 5:30 p.m. at Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts
• Mahjong at Parcero — 4 p.m. – 7 p.m. at Parcero Studio
• Pilates Mat Class — 9:30 a.m. – 10:15 a.m. at Heights Pilates
• A Taste of Downtown Raleigh Food Tours — 2:30 p.m. starting at City of Raleigh Museum
• BOATMAN DISTILLERY TOUR — 3 p.m. – 7 p.m. at Boatman Spirits Co.

Sunday, May 10, 2026 Events in Downtown Raleigh

Mother’s Day Brunches & Rooftop Experiences

• Mother’s Day Rooftop Tea — 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. at 10th & Terrace
• Mother’s Day Rooftop Brunch — 12 p.m. – 4 p.m. at The Willard Rooftop Lounge
• Mother’s Day Brunch at Good Day Good Night — 7 a.m. – 1 p.m.
• Mother’s Day at Sullivan’s Steakhouse — 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.
• Wye Hill Mother’s Day Brunch — 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. at Wye Hill Kitchen & Brewing
• Mother’s Day Brunch — 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. at Taverna Agora
• Momosa Brunch at The Flying Saucer — 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. at Flying Saucer Draught Emporium

Markets, Tours & Community Events

• Mother’s Day Market — 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. at Hartwell
• Raleigh African American History Tour — 4 p.m. – 5 p.m. at Jimmy V’s Osteria + Bar
• Sunday Run Club — 9 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. at The Bike Library
• Artspace Open Studio — 1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. at Artspace

Music, Games & Entertainment

• Jazz Sundays with Workbook — 2 p.m. – 5 p.m. at Incendiary Brewing Taproom
• FREE Air Hockey Tournament — 1 p.m. at Super Rad Retro Lounge
• BOATMAN DISTILLERY TOUR — 12 p.m. – 4 p.m. at Boatman Spirits Co.

Shopping & Specials

• Free Paleta For Mother’s Day at Morelia Gourmet Paletas
• Mother’s Day High Tea Cocktail Flight at Dram & Draught
• Closing: May Day 20% Off Sale through May 10 at The Museum Shop

Plan Your Weekend in Downtown Raleigh

From rooftop brunches and spring festivals to live music, art workshops, cultural tours, and nightlife, Downtown Raleigh is full of ways to celebrate Mother’s Day weekend. Whether you’re exploring Fayetteville Street, Moore Square, Glenwood South, or the Warehouse District, there are plenty of opportunities to support local businesses, enjoy great food, and experience Raleigh’s vibrant community atmosphere.

For more local events, guides, and things to do in Raleigh and across the Triangle, visit DoRaleigh.com.

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City of Raleigh Government Event Guide: Weekend Edition (May 8–9, 2026)

Looking for ways to stay connected with the community this weekend? The City of Raleigh has a lineup of educational, cultural, and community-focused events happening across the city on Friday and Saturday. From sustainability initiatives and local history to community celebrations and family-friendly programming, there’s something for everyone in the Triangle this weekend.

Whether you’re interested in Raleigh’s architectural history, exploring the city by bike, or celebrating Black joy and culture, here’s your official DoRaleigh weekend government event guide.

Friday, May 8, 2026

Biodegradable Yard Waste Bag Giveaway

11 a.m. Friday
Environment and Sustainability

Residents can pick up biodegradable yard waste bags as part of Raleigh’s ongoing sustainability and environmental efforts. This giveaway encourages eco-friendly yard maintenance and supports the city’s waste reduction initiatives. Register here

Lost Raleigh: Exploring the Oak City’s Architectural History Book Launch

6 p.m. Friday
Parks, Recreation, and Athletics

Celebrate Raleigh’s rich architectural and cultural history during the launch event for Lost Raleigh: Exploring the Oak City’s Architectural History. The event offers a fascinating look into the city’s evolving landscape, historic buildings, and stories that shaped Raleigh into the vibrant capital city it is today.

Saturday, May 9, 2026

Raleigh Historic Bike Ride

10 a.m. Saturday
Other

Take a ride through Raleigh’s past during this guided historic bike tour. Participants will explore significant landmarks, neighborhoods, and local history while enjoying a fun and active outdoor experience. Register Here

Dr. M.T. Pope House Presents: Black Joy in the Springtime

2 p.m. Saturday
Parks, Recreation, and Athletics

Celebrate culture, community, and creativity at this springtime gathering hosted by the historic Dr. M.T. Pope House. The event highlights Black joy through storytelling, art, music, and community engagement in one of Raleigh’s most historically significant spaces.

Shark Tank: Volume 2

5 p.m. Saturday
Community Engagement

Entrepreneurs, creatives, and innovators will have the opportunity to showcase their ideas and connect with the community during this interactive “Shark Tank”-style event focused on empowerment, innovation, and local talent.

Explore Raleigh This Weekend

From sustainability giveaways and architectural history to bike rides and cultural celebrations, Raleigh continues to offer meaningful community programming for residents and visitors alike. These events are a great way to explore the city, support local initiatives, and engage with Raleigh’s vibrant civic and cultural community.

Stay connected with everything happening around the Triangle with daily guides, local news, and community events on DoRaleigh.com.

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Triangle Event Guide Weekend Edition: Best Things To Do Around Raleigh, Durham, Cary & The Triangle (May 8–10, 2026)

Looking for the best things to do across the Triangle this weekend? From free festivals and Mother’s Day markets to live music, outdoor movies, food events, art walks, yoga, comedy, and family-friendly activities, the Triangle is packed with events happening across Raleigh, Durham, Cary, Chapel Hill, Wake Forest, Pittsboro, Hillsborough, and beyond.

This weekend’s highlights include Raleigh’s Spring Festival at Moore Square, the Ritmo Latino Festival in Cary, Shakespeare in the Parks in Durham, Mother’s Day celebrations across the Triangle, free shredding events, pop-up markets, concerts, and outdoor fun at Dix Park, Yates Mill, Downtown Cary Park, and more.

Whether you’re planning a family outing, date night, Mother’s Day weekend celebration, or looking for free things to do in Raleigh this weekend, here’s your complete Triangle Weekend Event Guide for May 8–10, 2026.

Friday, May 8, 2026

Freebies, Markets & Community Events

• Chicken Salad Chick Mother’s Day Deal — Buy one Large Quick Chick, get one free
• Free Document Shredding at Office Depot / OfficeMax
• Free tea for teachers and nurses at McAlister’s Deli
• Shake Shack free burger deal with purchase
• Spring Open Nursery and Garden Days at Plant Delights Nursery
• Garden Storytime at JC Raulston Arboretum
• Letterland Days at Pullen Park
• Free coffee tasting at Counter Culture Coffee in Durham
• Mill History Tours at Historic Yates Mill County Park

Friday Night Events & Live Music

• Friday Night on White featuring Sleeping Booty Band in Wake Forest
• Pop Up Music at North Hills in Raleigh
• 2nd Friday ArtWalk in Chapel Hill and Carrboro
• Chime In Open Mic at Lanza’s Cafe
• Live music at The Glass Jug RTP, Compass Rose Brewery, Oaklyn Springs Brewery, and more
• Bike Month Movie: E.T. in Chapel Hill
• Karaoke nights across Cary, Durham, Holly Springs, and Raleigh
• Stand-Up Comedy Open Mic at Durty Bull Brewing

Saturday, May 9, 2026

Major Festivals & Featured Events

Raleigh’s Spring Festival at Moore Square

One of the biggest highlights of the weekend, Raleigh’s Spring Festival brings live music, food trucks, shopping vendors, beer and wine, games, family activities, and Mother’s Day celebrations to Downtown Raleigh.

Ritmo Latino Festival in Cary

Celebrate Latin culture with music, dancing, food, and performances at Cary Town Hall.

Ma & Pa Festival in Downtown Raleigh

This family-friendly festival on Fayetteville Street celebrates moms and dads with vendors, activities, entertainment, and local shopping.

Kids Food Fest at Downtown Cary Park

A fun-filled day featuring family activities, food experiences, games, and entertainment for children and parents alike.

Family-Friendly Events

• Family Fun Day: Airplanes! at the City of Raleigh Museum
• JCPenney Kids Zone free crafts
• Learn to Ride bike programs in Raleigh
• Free Family Taekwondo at Dix Park
• Historic Raleigh Trolley Tours
• Free guided tours of the North Carolina State Capitol
• Sensory-Friendly screening of Wall-E at The Carolina Theatre
• Handcrafting History at Historic Yates Mill County Park

Markets, Art & Outdoor Fun

• Durham Craft Market
• Triangle Creators Pop-Up Market at Crank Arm Brewing
• Mother’s Day Market at Nanny Goat Market RTP
• Concerts on the Creek at Hub RTP
• Saturdays in Saxapahaw Outdoor Concert Series
• 31st Annual Art in the Garden Sculpture Exhibition in Hillsborough
• Sips & Blooms Pop-Up at Village District

Saturday Night Music & Entertainment

• Shakespeare in the Parks presents As You Like It in Durham Central Park
• Carolina Hurricanes Watch Party at Crank Arm Brewing
• Live music across Cary, Durham, Apex, Hillsborough, Pittsboro, Holly Springs, and Raleigh
• Comedy Showcase at Incendiary Brewing Raleigh
• Open Mic/Karaoke Night at Compass Rose Brewery

Sunday, May 10, 2026 (Mother’s Day)

Mother’s Day Events Across The Triangle

Mother’s Day celebrations take center stage on Sunday with brunches, markets, yoga sessions, concerts, and family activities happening throughout the region.

Highlights include:

• MOMosas Day at Crank Arm Brewing
• Mother’s Day Farmers Market in Knightdale
• Mother’s Day at Fenton in Cary
• Bazaar Craft & Art Market in Carrboro
• Raleigh Underground Market at Midtown Park
• Black Farmers’ Market at Southeast Raleigh YMCA

Wellness & Outdoor Activities

• Sunday Morning Yoga at Compass Rose Brewery
• Free yoga at the City of Raleigh Museum
• Art in the Park: May Flowers in Apex
• Visit Brajboro Cow Sanctuary in Chapel Hill
• Raleigh Really Really Free Market

Live Music & Sunday Entertainment

• Six Sundays in Spring concert featuring The Tams in Wake Forest
• Sundays at Sundown Live Music in Chapel Hill
• Bluegrass Open Jam in Cary
• Jazz with Rony Thomas at Blackbird Brewery
• Sugaree String Society live at Steel String Brewery
• Sapphlix Queer Movie Night in Carrboro
• Open mic events across Durham, Raleigh, Cary, and Fuquay-Varina

Best Free Things To Do In The Triangle This Weekend

Some of the top FREE events this weekend include:

• Raleigh’s Spring Festival
• Ritmo Latino Festival
• Shakespeare in the Parks
• Durham Craft Market
• Friday Night on White
• Family Fun Day at City of Raleigh Museum
• Pop-Up Music at North Hills
• Free NC State Capitol Tours
• Bazaar Craft & Art Market
• Six Sundays in Spring Concert Series

Plan Your Weekend Around Raleigh & The Triangle

From outdoor concerts and spring festivals to markets, comedy, karaoke, art walks, and Mother’s Day celebrations, there’s no shortage of things to do around Raleigh and the Triangle this weekend.

Be sure to bookmark DoRaleigh.com for daily local event guides, Downtown Raleigh happenings, food and drink specials, live music updates, family activities, and community events happening across the Triangle.

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Raleigh’s Spring Festival Returns to Moore Square May 9 With Free Admission, Live Music, Food Trucks & Flower Crowns for Moms

Looking for a family-friendly way to celebrate Mother’s Day weekend in Downtown Raleigh? Moore Square will come alive on Saturday, May 9, 2026, as Raleigh’s Spring Festival brings a full day of live entertainment, local shopping, food trucks, games, and springtime fun to the heart of the city.

Hosted by NC Vibes – Event Planning and Management, the festival runs from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and features FREE admission for all ages. Organizers are promising a full day of music, dance performances, local vendors, beer and wine, desserts, interactive activities, and special giveaways celebrating moms.

Celebrate Spring in Downtown Raleigh

Raleigh’s Spring Festival is designed as a vibrant community celebration where locals and visitors can enjoy everything from shopping and live performances to food trucks and cultural entertainment. The event is both family-friendly and pet-friendly, making it a perfect outing for the entire crew.

One of the day’s highlights will be complimentary flower crowns for moms, along with prizes and giveaways throughout the festival. Southern Recipe Chips will also provide special treats for moms while supplies last.

Festivalgoers can expect:

• Food trucks and desserts
• Beer, wine, and wine tasting
• Local vendors and shopping
• Face painting
• Games and prizes
• Live music and cultural performances
• Dance showcases
• Family-friendly entertainment
• Pet-friendly atmosphere

Live Entertainment Schedule

The festival’s stage lineup features a diverse mix of music, dance, and cultural performances throughout the day.

Raleigh’s Spring Festival Entertainment Schedule

11:00 – 11:05 a.m.
National Anthem by Shelby Maynor

11:05 – 11:30 a.m.
Stage Door Dance Productions

11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Shelby Maynor Band

12:30 – 12:45 p.m.
Chinese School at Chapel Hill

12:45 – 1:15 p.m.
Alia Ka’naka O Hula Halau

1:15 – 1:30 p.m.
Saida Kritz

1:30 – 1:50 p.m.
Sangre de Campeón Peruvian Dance

1:50 – 2:00 p.m.
Best MOM Dance Competition

2:00 – 2:30 p.m.
Shimmy Mob

2:30 – 4:00 p.m.
70s Dance Party Zumba

4:00 – 5:00 p.m.
Debbie Liske Band

5:00 – 6:00 p.m.
Kay Mis Band

6:00 – 7:00 p.m.
Ray Unlimited 7 Band

70s Dance Party & Costume Contest

Get ready to break out the retro outfits because the festival will also feature a 70s Dance Party complete with costumes, dancing, and prizes. Attendees are encouraged to participate in the dance and costume competition for a chance to win.

Registration for the contest is available here:

70s Dance Party Registration Form

Event Details

Raleigh’s Spring Festival

• Date: Saturday, May 9, 2026
• Time: 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.
• Location: Moore Square
• Admission: FREE
• Family-Friendly: Yes
• Pet-Friendly: Yes

Whether you’re celebrating Mother’s Day weekend, looking for live music in Downtown Raleigh, or searching for a fun spring festival with local vendors and food trucks, Raleigh’s Spring Festival is shaping up to be one of the city’s biggest community gatherings of the season.

Follow DoRaleigh.com for daily updates on government meetings, local festivals, and community happenings — your one-stop guide to everything Raleigh!

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Downtown Raleigh Event Guide (Weekend Edition)

April 24–26, 2026 | Things to Do in Downtown Raleigh

Looking for the best things to do in Downtown Raleigh this weekend? From live music and nightlife to markets, yoga, food tours, and community events, Downtown Raleigh is packed with activity from Friday, April 24 through Sunday, April 26, 2026.

Whether you’re planning a night out, brunch with friends, or a full weekend itinerary, this DoRaleigh Downtown Event Guide has you covered.

🔥 Friday, April 24, 2026

• Project Reach Out Day of Care – Spring 2026
  10:00 AM – 2:00 PM | Moore Square
• A Taste of Downtown Raleigh Food Tour
  12:45 PM | City of Raleigh Museum
• Downtown Raleigh Historian-Guided Tour
  3:00 PM | Jimmy V’s Osteria + Bar
• Boatman Distillery Tour
  3:00 PM – 7:00 PM | Boatman Spirits Co.
• Wine Nights at Sugar House
  4:00 PM – 11:00 PM | Sugar House
• Crank Karaoke @ Crank Arm Brewing
  8:00 PM – 11:00 PM
• Garden Grooves
  8:00 PM – 11:00 PM | Botanical Lounge
• Live Music @ Slim’s Downtown
  9:00 PM – 11:00 PM
• Late Nights at Neptunes Parlour
  10:00 PM – 2:00 AM
• Salsa Night @ Boatman Spirits
  10:00 PM – 2:00 AM

🎉 Saturday, April 25, 2026

• Coffee + Craft: Maker’s Market
  10:00 AM – 3:00 PM | Sir Walter Coffee & Kitchen
• Little Love Yoga (Kids + Grown-Ups)
  11:30 AM – 12:15 PM | Current Wellness
• GRL Market – Women’s Maker Market
  12:00 PM – 3:00 PM | Transfer Co. Food Hall
• Oak City Music Collective: Spring Jazz Market
  12:00 PM – 6:00 PM | Moore Square
• Charley’s K9 Rescue Event
  2:00 PM – 5:00 PM | Wolfe & Porter
• Knockout Artist w/ The Other Men
  3:00 PM – 5:00 PM | Slim’s Downtown
• Boatman Distillery Tour
  3:00 PM – 7:00 PM
• Mahjong at Parcero
  4:00 PM – 7:00 PM
• Emma Zinck Hits The Roof!
  8:00 PM – 9:30 PM | Tin Roof
• Saturday Night Spins
  8:00 PM – 12:00 AM | Boatman Spirits Co.
• Late Nights at Neptunes Parlour
  10:00 PM – 2:00 AM

🎶 Sunday, April 26, 2026

• Sunday Brunch & Live Music
  9:00 AM – 12:00 PM | Good Day Good Night
• Sunday Run Club
  9:00 AM – 10:30 AM | The Bike Library
• Rooftop Yoga
  10:00 AM – 11:00 AM | The Willard Rooftop Lounge
• Pride Flow Yoga
  11:00 AM – 12:00 PM | Current Wellness
• Artspace Open Studio
  1:30 PM – 3:30 PM | Artspace
• Vintage Market @ Wolfe & Porter
  2:00 PM – 7:00 PM
• Awaken + Bloom Sound Bath
  2:00 PM – 3:15 PM | Current Wellness
• Candle Making Workshop
  3:00 PM – 5:00 PM | Copperline Plant Co.
• Raleigh African American History Tour
  4:00 PM – 5:00 PM | Jimmy V’s Osteria + Bar
• Boatman Distillery Tour
  12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
• Live Music: The Dead Man’s Doctors & Mary Anna
  8:00 PM – 10:00 PM | Slim’s Downtown
• Gay for Country Karaoke!
  8:00 PM – 12:00 AM | Neptunes Parlour

🌟 Weekend Highlights

• Downtown nightlife + late-night vibes 🍸
• Maker markets & vintage pop-ups 🛍️
• Live music across multiple venues 🎶
• Fitness + wellness (yoga, run club, sound bath) 🧘
• Food tours + brunch experiences 🍴

📍 Plan Your Downtown Raleigh Weekend

From daytime markets and tours to late-night music and dancing, Downtown Raleigh continues to deliver one of the most dynamic weekend scenes in the Triangle.

👉 Follow DoRaleigh for daily event guides, nightlife picks, and the best things to do across Raleigh.

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Downtown Raleigh Event Guide – Weekend Edition (April 17–19, 2026)

Looking for the best things to do in Downtown Raleigh this weekend? The DoRaleigh Downtown Raleigh Event Guide – Weekend Edition is your go-to list for live music, nightlife, festivals, tours, comedy, and family-friendly events happening April 17–19, 2026.

From the ’Cuegrass Festival and NCMA Outdoor Films to comedy shows, food tours, and late-night vibes, Downtown Raleigh is packed all weekend long.

Friday, April 17, 2026

Kick off your weekend with a mix of culture, nightlife, and entertainment across Downtown Raleigh.

🌟 Featured Friday Events

• 21Marbles: PARTYology
  🕕 6PM–9:30PM | Marbles Kids Museum
• 9-Year Anniversary Celebration
  🕓 4PM–2AM | Watts & Ward
• Boatman Distillery Tour
  🕒 3PM–7PM | Boatman Spirits Co.
• Downtown Raleigh Historian-Guided Tour
  🕒 3PM | Jimmy V’s Osteria + Bar
• NCMA Outdoor Films: Sonic the Hedgehog 3
  🕖 7:15PM | Moore Square
• Il Trovatore
  🕢 7:30PM | Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts
• The HillBenders Present: Beatlegrass
  🕡 6:30PM | Martin Marietta Center

🎶 Nightlife Picks

• Crank Karaoke @ Crank Arm Brewing (8PM–11PM)
• Salsa Night + Late Night Party @ Boatman Spirits (10PM–2AM)
• Late Nights at Neptunes Parlour (10PM–2AM)
• Jazz Night @ The Bike Library (7PM–9PM)

Saturday, April 18, 2026

Saturday is stacked with major events, performances, and daytime experiences.

🌟 Must-Attend Saturday Events

• 16th Annual North Carolina ’Cuegrass Festival
  🕛 12PM–6PM (+ after party) | The Raleigh Times
• Arts on the Block
  🕛 12PM–5PM | Artspace
• SustainabiliDAY
  🕛 12PM–3PM | Marbles Kids Museum
• A Taste of Downtown Raleigh Food Tours
  🕝 2:30PM | City of Raleigh Museum
• Women’s Comedy Brunch
  🕚 11AM–1:30PM | Longleaf Hotel

🎭 Shows & Performances

• An Evening with David Sedaris – 8PM
• Charlie Berens: The Lost and Found Tour – 8PM
• Murder is Par for the Course – 7PM–9PM

🧘 Wellness & Workshops

• Pilates Mat Class @ Heights Pilates
• Cultivating Body Respect @ Current Wellness

🎉 Nightlife

• Saturday Night Spins @ Boatman Spirits (8PM–12AM)
• Mahjong at Parcero (4PM–7PM)

Sunday, April 19, 2026

Wrap up the weekend with a mix of arts, wellness, and laid-back Sunday vibes.

🌟 Featured Sunday Events

• Artspace Open Studio
  🕜 1:30PM–3:30PM
• Il Trovatore (Matinee)
  🕑 2PM | Martin Marietta Center
• Raleigh African American History Tour
  🕓 4PM–5PM | Jimmy V’s Osteria + Bar
• Tea on Tenth: Rooftop Afternoon Tea
  🕚 11AM–2PM | 10th & Terrace

🧘 Wellness & Community

• Sunday Run Club @ The Bike Library (9AM)
• Repotting Clinic @ Copperline Plant Co.
• Spring & Summer Garden Mocktails @ Current Wellness

🎤 Evening Fun

• Emo Karaoke @ Neptunes Parlour (8PM–12AM)
• FREE Air Hockey Tournament @ Super Rad Retro Lounge

Plan Your Weekend in Downtown Raleigh

From major festivals and live performances to food tours, comedy, and nightlife, Downtown Raleigh is the place to be this weekend.

👉 Whether you’re exploring the ’Cuegrass Festival, catching a show at the Martin Marietta Center, or enjoying rooftop tea and late-night karaoke, there’s something for everyone.

Stay locked in with DoRaleigh for the latest Downtown Raleigh events, weekend guides, and things to do across the Triangle.

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Dix Park Weekend Guide: Things to Do (April 10–12, 2026)

Looking for things to do at Dix Park this weekend? From outdoor dancing and family-friendly activities to wellness events and guided tours, Dorothea Dix Park is hosting a variety of engaging programs for all ages from April 10–12, 2026.

Whether you’re exploring the park for the first time or returning for another weekend of community events, here’s what’s happening at one of Raleigh’s most vibrant public spaces.

Friday, April 10, 2026

Square Dance Social

⏰ 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM

📍 Gipson Play Plaza

Kick off the weekend with a lively Square Dance Social at Gipson Play Plaza. Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or a first-timer, this fun and welcoming event invites everyone to grab a partner and “do-si-do” under the open sky.

Saturday, April 11, 2026

ASL Guided Walking Tour

⏰ 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM

📍 Stone Houses Visitor Center

Explore the rich history and future vision of Dix Park through an ASL-guided walking tour, designed to be inclusive and accessible for the Deaf and hard-of-hearing community.

Family Taekwondo

⏰ 1:00 PM – 1:45 PM

📍 Gipson Play Plaza

Bring the whole family out for a beginner-friendly taekwondo session focused on movement, discipline, and fun.

Learn to Ride a Bike

⏰ 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM

📍 Gipson Play Plaza

Perfect for kids and families, this Learn to Ride program helps build confidence and cycling skills in a supportive environment.

Sunday, April 12, 2026

Grief Talks: Holding on to Love and Loss

⏰ 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM

📍 The Chapel

Join a meaningful and supportive group discussion focused on navigating grief and honoring loved ones in a safe, reflective space.

Indoor Yoga

⏰ 3:30 PM – 4:30 PM

Wrap up the weekend with a calming indoor yoga session, perfect for relaxation, mindfulness, and recharging before the week ahead.

Plan Your Weekend at Dix Park

From active outdoor fun and educational experiences to wellness and reflection, Dix Park continues to be a go-to destination for community-centered events in Raleigh. With scenic views, open green space, and diverse programming, it’s the perfect place to spend your weekend.

Be sure to check DoRaleigh.com for more local guides, events, and things to do across Raleigh and the Triangle.

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Downtown Raleigh Weekend Event Guide (April 10–12, 2026)

Looking for the best things to do in Downtown Raleigh this weekend? From live music and nightlife to family-friendly festivals, fitness events, and cultural experiences, downtown is packed with activity from Friday, April 10 through Sunday, April 12, 2026.

Whether you’re planning a date night, brunch outing, or full weekend itinerary, here’s your DoRaleigh guide for what’s happening in the heart of Raleigh.

Friday, April 10, 2026

Kick off the weekend with tours, live performances, and nightlife:

Boatman Distillery Tour – 3PM–7PM | Boatman Spirits Co.
Book Signing & Meet & Greet with Melanie Kaplan – 4PM–6PM | West Street Dog
Downtown Raleigh Historian-Guided Tour – 3PM | Jimmy V’s Osteria + Bar
A Taste of Downtown Raleigh Food Tour – 12:45PM | City of Raleigh Museum
Skate Moore Square – 1PM–7PM | Moore Square

Nightlife & Entertainment

Sir Walter Coffee Singles Night: Spring Fling – 6PM–10PM
Well, I Declare: America at 250 – 7:30PM | Martin Marietta Center
Crank Karaoke – 8PM–11PM | Crank Arm Brewing
Salsa Night at Boatman Spirits – 10PM–2AM
Late Nights at Neptunes Parlour – 10PM–2AM

Saturday, April 11, 2026

Saturday brings a mix of family fun, wellness, and community events:

Beyond the Book Children’s Book & Art Festival – 10AM–2PM | Fred Fletcher Park
Backwards Science Fair – 1PM–3PM | Marbles Kids Museum
Family Fun Day: Squirrels! – 11AM–2PM | City of Raleigh Museum
Skate Moore Square – 1PM–7PM | Moore Square

Wellness & Activities

Pilates Mat Class – 9:30AM | Heights Pilates
BK Pilates Spring Reset – 2PM–5:30PM | BK Pilates Mahjong at Parcero – 4PM–7PM

Tours & Experiences

Boatman Distillery Tour – 3PM–7PM
A Taste of Downtown Raleigh Food Tour – 2:30PM

Night Vibes

Saturday Night Spins – 8PM–12AM | Boatman Spirits Co.
St. Baldrick’s Event (Fundraiser) – 12PM | Morgan Street Food Hall

Sunday, April 12, 2026

Wrap up your weekend with markets, music, and laid-back experiences:

Sunday Run Club – 9AM–10:30AM | The Bike Library Skate Moore Square – 1PM–7PM | Moore Square Artspace Open Studio – 1:30PM–3:30PM | Artspace Raleigh African American History Tour – 4PM–5PM | Jimmy V’s Osteria + Bar

Wellness & Community

Fat Positive Flow – 4PM–5PM | Current Wellness
Plus Size Clothing Swap – 2PM–3:30PM | Current Wellness
S.O.S. My Plant is Dying – 12PM–1:30PM | Copperline Plant Co.

Food & Drinks

Oyster Fest at The Bend – 1PM–5PM
Boatman Distillery Tour – 12PM–4PM

Live Music & Culture

Jazz Sundays with Workbook – 2PM–5PM | Incendiary Brewing
Churchill (Live Performance) – 2PM | Martin Marietta Center

Weekend Highlights

Don’t miss these standout Downtown Raleigh events:

Beyond the Book Children’s Festival
Skate Moore Square (all weekend)
Oyster Fest at The Bend
BK Pilates Spring Reset
Jazz Sundays at Incendiary Brewing
Downtown Raleigh Food Tours

Plan Your Weekend in Downtown Raleigh

From cultural experiences and fitness events to nightlife and family-friendly fun, Downtown Raleigh offers something for everyone this weekend. Whether you’re exploring local businesses, enjoying live entertainment, or connecting with the community, there’s no shortage of things to do.

Stay tuned to DoRaleigh.com for more local guides, events, and things to do across Raleigh and the Triangle.

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City of Raleigh Government Event Guide (Weekend Edition: April 10–12, 2026)

Looking to stay connected with your community this weekend? The DoRaleigh City of Raleigh Government Event Guide (Weekend Edition) highlights public meetings, community engagement opportunities, and family-friendly programs happening across the city from Friday, April 10 through Sunday, April 12, 2026.

From civic discussions and advisory board sessions to outdoor festivals and cultural programming, here’s what’s happening around Raleigh this weekend.

Friday, April 10, 2026

Kick off the weekend with opportunities to engage, connect, and learn:

Coffee and Conversations – Earth Day ⏰ 9:00 AM | Community Engagement Join local leaders and residents for an Earth Day-focused discussion centered on sustainability, environmental awareness, and community action.

After the Conversation – Outreach at A Place at the Table ⏰ 9:30 AM | Community Engagement Continue the dialogue with hands-on outreach efforts supporting the community at A Place at the Table.

Police Advisory Board Retreat ⏰ 4:00 PM | Boards and Commissions A key meeting where community members and officials discuss public safety priorities, policies, and engagement strategies.

Saturday, April 11, 2026

Saturday is packed with family-friendly activities, cultural events, and community-focused programming:

Beyond The Book: Children’s Book & Art Festival ⏰ 10:00 AM | Parks, Recreation, and Athletics A free outdoor festival celebrating literacy, creativity, and community—perfect for families.

Method Community Park Improvements Update ⏰ 10:30 AM | Parks, Recreation, and Athletics Learn about upcoming enhancements and provide feedback on improvements to Method Community Park.

Family Fun Day: Squirrels! ⏰ 11:00 AM | Parks, Recreation, and Athletics A fun and educational event focused on local wildlife, ideal for kids and families.

A Walk with Poetry | A SEEK Raleigh Event ⏰ 12:00 PM | Arts & Entertainment / Parks, Recreation, and Athletics Experience poetry in motion with a guided walk featuring performances and creative expression throughout Raleigh’s green spaces. Click Here for RSVP

Barwell Road Community Garden Open House ⏰ 1:00 PM | Parks, Recreation, and Athletics Explore the community garden, meet local growers, and learn about sustainable gardening initiatives.

Sunday, April 12, 2026

Wrap up the weekend with a unique blend of history and exploration:

Historic Oakwood Neighborhood Trolley Tour ⏰ 1:00 PM | Parks, Recreation, and Athletics Take a guided tour through one of Raleigh’s most historic neighborhoods and discover the stories behind its architecture and heritage. Get Tickets

Stay Engaged with Raleigh

Whether you’re attending a community meeting, exploring local parks, or enjoying a cultural event, these City of Raleigh programs offer meaningful ways to stay involved and connected. From civic engagement to family-friendly fun, there’s something for everyone this weekend.

Be sure to check back with DoRaleigh.com for more local updates, event guides, and ways to plug into what’s happening across the city.

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Downtown Raleigh Weekend Event Guide (March 14–16, 2026)

Looking for things to do in Downtown Raleigh this weekend? The city is packed with exciting events including live music, comedy shows, art exhibits, St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, fitness classes, markets, and cultural experiences.

From performances by the North Carolina Symphony to comedy with Jimmy O. Yang, plus bar crawls, art walks, and community events, there’s something for everyone happening across the heart of Raleigh.

Here’s your DoRaleigh Downtown Raleigh Weekend Event Guide for March 14–16, 2026.

Friday Events in Downtown Raleigh

Friday night brings a mix of live entertainment, art, nightlife, and tours across downtown.

Featured Friday Events

Hollywood Hits at the Symphony

📍 Meymandi Concert Hall

Presented by the North Carolina Symphony

Experience iconic film scores performed live by the symphony in a spectacular orchestral performance celebrating some of Hollywood’s greatest musical moments.

Comedy Night with Jimmy O. Yang

⏰ 8:00 PM

📍 Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts

Actor and comedian Jimmy O. Yang takes the stage for a night of stand-up comedy at one of Raleigh’s premier entertainment venues.

Black Light Pottery Painting Night

⏰ 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM

📍 Incendiary Brewing Taproom

Enjoy a creative night out painting pottery under glowing black lights while sipping local craft beer.

Downtown Raleigh Historian-Guided Tour

⏰ 3:00 PM

📍 Jimmy V’s Osteria + Bar

Learn about Raleigh’s rich past on a guided walking tour exploring the history of downtown landmarks and neighborhoods.

Live Music & Nightlife Highlights

Live music at Slim’s Downtown Karaoke night at Crank Arm Brewing Salsa dancing at Boatman Spirits Co. Late-night DJ vibes at Neptunes Parlour Downtown Raleigh True Crime Tour at Moore Square

Saturday Events in Downtown Raleigh

Saturday is packed with St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, wellness events, museum exhibits, and live music.

St. Patrick’s Day Events

Downtown Raleigh transforms into a festive destination for St. Patrick’s Day weekend.

Carolina Crawls St. Paddy’s Day Bar Crawl Saint Paddy’s Crawl St. Patrick’s Parade Watch Party at Taverna Agora St. Patrick’s Day Weekend Party at Smash Social Club

Family & Cultural Events

Family Fun Day: Space!

⏰ 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM

📍 City of Raleigh Museum

Families can enjoy interactive science activities and educational exhibits exploring space and astronomy.

Staying Alive Special Exhibition Opening

⏰ 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

📍 North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences

Explore the fascinating science of survival and adaptation in this special museum exhibition.

Women’s History Walking Tour

⏰ 2:00 PM – 3:15 PM

📍 Downtown Raleigh

Celebrate Women’s History Month while discovering the stories of influential women who shaped Raleigh’s past.

Fitness & Wellness Events

Pilates Mat Class at Heights Pilates Prenatal Yoga Workshop at Current Wellness Fat Positive Flow yoga class at Current Wellness

Sunday Events in Downtown Raleigh

Sunday brings a mix of markets, art, workshops, and live performances to wrap up the weekend.

Art & Creative Events

Artspace Open Studio

⏰ 1:30 PM – 3:30 PM

📍 Artspace

Meet local artists, explore their studios, and see creative works in progress during this open studio event.

Vintage Market

⏰ 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM

📍 Wolfe & Porter

Browse vintage clothing, handmade goods, and unique finds from local vendors.

Brush Lettering for Beginners

⏰ 3:30 PM – 5:00 PM

📍 Wolfe & Porter

Learn the art of modern brush lettering in this beginner-friendly workshop.

Tours & Experiences

Raleigh African American History Tour

⏰ 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM

📍 Jimmy V’s Osteria + Bar

Explore Raleigh’s rich African American heritage through a guided historical walking tour.

Sunday Run Club

⏰ 9:00 AM – 10:30 AM

📍 The Bike Library

Join a community run through downtown Raleigh with fellow runners.

Dining & Nightlife

Emilia-Romagna Dinner

⏰ 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM

📍 Figulina Pasta + Provisions

Enjoy a special Italian dinner inspired by the cuisine of Emilia-Romagna.

Emo Karaoke Night

⏰ 8:00 PM – Midnight

📍 Neptunes Parlour

Sing your favorite emo and pop-punk hits during this nostalgic karaoke event.

Film Event: Stand By Me – 40 Years Later

⏰ 7:00 PM

📍 Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts

A special screening and celebration of the classic film Stand By Me and its legacy.

Explore Downtown Raleigh This Weekend

Downtown Raleigh continues to be one of the Triangle’s most vibrant destinations for nightlife, culture, food, and entertainment. With St. Patrick’s Day festivities, live music, art exhibitions, tours, and community events, the weekend offers something for everyone.

Whether you’re enjoying a concert with the North Carolina Symphony, a comedy show, a bar crawl, or an art workshop, Downtown Raleigh is the place to be.

Stay connected with DoRaleigh.com for the latest Triangle event guides, local news, and things to do across Raleigh and the surrounding communities.

Post your community News, Events, and you can request placing a Paid ad on our Submissions Page.

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Downtown Raleigh Event Guide (Weekend Edition): Feb. 13–15th

Valentine’s Weekend Events, Live Music, Food Experiences & Cultural Things to Do Downtown Raleigh

❤️ Downtown Raleigh Weekend Overview

Downtown Raleigh is packed with Valentine’s weekend activities, live performances, tours, food experiences, nightlife, and cultural events from February 13–15, 2026. Whether you’re planning a romantic evening, Galentine’s celebration, or just exploring the city, there’s something happening throughout downtown.

⭐ Friday, February 13 Highlights

🎭 Performances & Cultural Events

Bravo Broadway with the North Carolina Symphony – A musical theater celebration Solas Performance – Live performing arts experience Gallery Exhibits including Where Sunlight Lingers at Gallery C

💕 Valentine’s & Galentine’s Events

Galentine’s celebrations at Smash Social Club and Sir Walter Coffee Love-themed dining experiences like Love at First Bite at Good Day Good Night Vintage Valentine’s Party at City of Raleigh Museum

🌃 Tours, Nightlife & Entertainment

Downtown Raleigh historian-guided walking tour True crime walking tour at Moore Square Karaoke at Crank Arm Brewing Live indie rock at Slim’s Downtown Salsa night at Boatman Spirits Co. Late-night music and dancing at Neptunes Parlour

💖 Saturday, February 14 (Valentine’s Day)

🍽️ Romantic Dining & Special Experiences

Valentine’s prix fixe dinners across downtown restaurants Chocolate and cocktail pairings at Boatman Spirits Oyster tasting experiences and wellness-focused Valentine events Murder mystery dinner experiences

🎶 Live Music & Entertainment

Love Notes R&B Valentine Concert featuring Donell Jones, Carl Thomas & Keke Wyatt Jazzentine’s at Hartwell Live music and DJ nights throughout downtown venues

💘 Unique Valentine Activities

Valentine’s treasure hunt walking scavenger tours Poetry showdown events Couples wellness experiences Art classes and creative workshops

🏛️ Family & Community Activities

Family Fun Day Valentine’s event at City of Raleigh Museum Fitness classes and wellness sessions

🌹 Sunday, February 15 Highlights

🎨 Arts, Markets & Culture

Artspace Open Studio events Vintage market shopping opportunities Art exhibitions including works at Gallery C

🚶 Tours & Community Activities

Raleigh African American History Tour Downtown scavenger hunts Run clubs and wellness classes

🍽️ Food & Social Events

Seafood boil and oyster roast gatherings Valentine’s weekend restaurant specials Live music brunch and evening events

Why Downtown Raleigh Is the Place to Be This Weekend

Downtown Raleigh continues to serve as a hub for:

Arts, culture, and entertainment Local dining and nightlife experiences Community connection and civic engagement Seasonal celebrations and festivals

Valentine’s weekend is especially vibrant, with events suited for couples, friends, families, and solo explorers.

Stay Connected With DoRaleigh

DoRaleigh provides ongoing coverage of:

Downtown Raleigh events Triangle cultural happenings Local government updates Community festivals and experiences

👉 Visit DoRaleigh.com regularly for new event guides, civic updates, and local highlights.

Post your community News, Events, and you can request placing a Paid ad on our Submissions Page.

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The Downtown Raleigh Event Guide Friday January 23rd Edition

Downtown Raleigh is packed with live music, tours, nightlife, and special events this Friday. From anniversary celebrations and symphony performances to karaoke, salsa dancing, and late-night DJs, the Downtown Raleigh Event Guide for Friday, January 23 highlights some of the best ways to kick off the weekend in the heart of the city.

Here’s what’s happening 👇

Friday, January 23 — Downtown Raleigh Events

7th Year Anniversary for Burial Raleigh

🕛 Noon – 11:00 PM

📍 Burial Beer Co. – The Exhibit

Celebrate seven years of Burial Raleigh with special pours, a festive atmosphere, and an all-day anniversary party inside Transfer Co. Food Hall.

Downtown Raleigh Home Show

🕙 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM

📍 Raleigh Convention Center

Explore home improvement ideas, vendors, and design inspiration at this all-day downtown showcase.

Downtown Raleigh Historian-Guided Tour

🕒 3:00 PM

📍 Jimmy V’s Osteria + Bar

Discover the stories, landmarks, and hidden history of downtown Raleigh with a knowledgeable local historian.

Friday Night Live Music at Birdie’s

🕔 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM

📍 Birdie’s Barroom & Kitchen

Unwind after work with live music, drinks, and dinner in a relaxed downtown setting.

CoLab Paint, Paint, Pass!

🕖 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM

📍 The Carter Building

A creative, social painting experience perfect for groups, date nights, or trying something new.

Mozart Piano Concerto No. 23

🕗 8:00 PM

📍 North Carolina Symphony

Enjoy a world-class classical performance featuring Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 23 in downtown Raleigh.

Downtown Raleigh True Crime Tour

🕗 8:00 PM

📍 Moore Square

Dive into Raleigh’s darker history with a guided true crime walking tour through Moore Square.

Crank Karaoke

🕗 8:00 PM – 11:00 PM

📍 Crank Arm Brewing

Grab the mic and sing your favorites at one of downtown’s most popular breweries.

The Feeds (Live Music)

🕘 9:00 PM – 11:00 PM

📍 Slim’s Downtown

Catch a live set from The Feeds at this iconic downtown Raleigh music venue.

Late Nights at Neptune’s

🕙 10:00 PM – 2:00 AM

📍 Neptunes Parlour

Dance, DJs, and late-night energy at one of Raleigh’s favorite after-hours spots.

Salsa Night at Boatman Spirits

🕙 10:00 PM – 2:00 AM

📍 Boatman Spirits Co.

Heat up the night with salsa dancing, cocktails, and vibrant late-night vibes.

Make a Night of It Downtown

Whether you’re into live music, arts and culture, tours, or nightlife, Downtown Raleigh has something for everyone this Friday. Arrive early, stay late, and explore multiple stops within walking distance.

Follow DoRaleigh.com for daily updates on government meetings, local festivals, and community happenings — your one-stop guide to everything Raleigh!

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Downtown Raleigh Event Guide – Weekend Edition (January 3–4, 2026)

Looking for the best things to do in Downtown Raleigh this weekend? From Emancipation Day history tours and art studio openings to food tours, fitness classes, and nightlife, this Downtown Raleigh Weekend Event Guide has you covered for Saturday and Sunday, January 3–4, 2026.

Whether you’re planning a full day downtown or just popping in for an evening event, here’s what’s happening.

📅 Saturday, January 3, 2026

2026 Emancipation Day Breakfast

8:30 am – 9:30 am

📍 City of Raleigh Museum

Pilates Mat Class

9:30 am – 10:15 am

📍 Heights Pilates

Emancipation Day Trolley: Oberlin Village Tour

10:00 am – 12:30 pm

📍 City of Raleigh Museum

Fighting for Freedom: Black Civil War Reenactors

10:00 am – 4:00 pm

📍 Pope House Museum

Winter Historic Oakwood Tour

2:00 pm – 3:00 pm

📍 Raleigh Walking Tours

A Taste of Downtown Raleigh Food Tour

2:30 pm – 5:30 pm

📍 City of Raleigh Museum

Adoption Event with Perfectly Imperfect Pups

2:00 pm – 4:00 pm

📍 Incendiary Brewing Taproom

Illuminate Art Walk Sip n’ Stroll Tour

5:45 pm – 6:45 pm

📍 Raleigh Walking Tours

Saturday Night DJ Showcase

8:00 pm – Midnight

📍 Boatman Spirits Co.

📅 Sunday, January 4, 2026

Sunday Run Club

9:00 am – 10:30 am

📍 The Bike Library

Winter Warm-Up Series with YogaSix Glenwood South & 321 Coffee

9:00 am – 10:00 am

📍 YogaSix Glenwood South

Artspace Open Studio

1:30 pm – 3:30 pm

📍 Artspace

New Year, New Lens: Reclaiming Movement Series

2:00 pm – 3:30 pm

📍 Current Wellness

Raleigh African American History Tour

4:00 pm – 5:00 pm

📍 Jimmy V’s Osteria + Bar

Sidecar Social Club at Figulina

5:00 pm – 8:00 pm

📍 Figulina Pasta + Provisions

Make the Most of Your Downtown Raleigh Weekend

This weekend highlights Downtown Raleigh’s culture, history, wellness, food, and nightlife, with multiple Emancipation Day events, guided walking tours, and community-driven experiences. Whether you’re exploring Oakwood, Glenwood South, or Moore Square, there’s something happening all weekend long.

Check back with DoRaleigh for daily updates, neighborhood-specific guides, and last-minute event additions.

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Downtown Raleigh Event Guide – Weekend Edition

Things to Do in Downtown Raleigh | December 27–28, 2025

Looking for the best things to do in Downtown Raleigh this weekend? From guided food tours and historic neighborhood walks to art experiences, fitness classes, live DJs, and signature dining specials, Downtown Raleigh offers a packed lineup of events to enjoy before the year comes to a close.

📅 Saturday, December 27, 2025 — Downtown Raleigh Events

Kick off your Saturday morning with a Pilates Mat Class from 9:30–10:15 am at Heights Pilates, then dive into local history with the Winter Historic Oakwood Tour offered at 11:00 am–12:00 pm and again from 2:00–3:00 pm through Raleigh Walking Tours. Food lovers won’t want to miss A Taste of Downtown Raleigh Food Tour from 2:30–5:30 pm starting at the City of Raleigh Museum, highlighting some of the city’s favorite flavors. As the afternoon transitions into evening, enjoy Crofton’s Pretzels at Wolfe & Porter beginning at 6:00 pm until sold out, or take part in the Illuminate Art Walk Sip n’ Stroll Tour from 5:45–6:45 pm, another popular experience with Raleigh Walking Tours. Cap off the night with the Saturday Night DJ Showcase from 8:00 pm until midnight at Boatman Spirits Co..

📅 Sunday, December 28, 2025 — Downtown Raleigh Events

Sunday starts strong with the Sunday Run Club from 9:00–10:30 am at The Bike Library. Refuel afterward with Sunday Tradition: Half-Priced Spaghetti & Meatballs available all day from 11:00 am–10:00 pm at Gravy. History buffs can explore Downtown Raleigh’s past with the Winter Historic Oakwood Tour from 2:00–3:00 pm or the Raleigh African American History Tour from 4:00–5:00 pm starting at Jimmy V’s Osteria + Bar. Art lovers should plan to stop by Artspace Open Studio from 1:30–3:30 pm at Artspace, while creative types can enjoy Paint Your Pet Night from 6:00–9:00 pm at Incendiary Brewing Taproom. The evening also features another Illuminate Art Walk Sip n’ Stroll Tour from 5:45–6:45 pm and wraps up with Saturday Night Spins (Sunday edition) from 8:00 pm–12:00 am at Boatman Spirits Co.

🎉 Make the Most of Your Downtown Raleigh Weekend

Whether you’re exploring historic Raleigh neighborhoods, enjoying Downtown Raleigh food tours, supporting local art, or dancing the night away with DJs and live events, this weekend offers something for everyone right in the heart of the city.

👉 Check back with DoRaleigh.com for daily Downtown Raleigh event guides, weekend roundups, and local happenings you won’t want to miss.

#Arts #downtownRaleigh #DowntownRaleighEventGuide #DowntownRaleighEvents #events #Food #music #News #raleigh #RaleighArtEvents #raleighFoodTours #RaleighWalkingTours #RaleighWeekendEvents #ThingsToDoInDowntownRaleigh #thingsToDoInRaleigh #WeekendGuideRaleigh

The Downtown Raleigh Event Guide – Weekend Edition December 20–21st

Planning your weekend in Downtown Raleigh? The DoRaleigh Downtown Raleigh Event Guide – Weekend Edition highlights the best food tours, arts events, nightlife, wellness classes, live music, and cultural experiences happening Saturday and Sunday, December 20–21, 2025. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly activities, date-night ideas, or late-night entertainment, Downtown Raleigh has you covered.

📅 Saturday, December 20, 2025

Morning & Afternoon

Pilates Mat Class 9:30–10:15 a.m. | Heights Pilates

Holidays at the Pope House 10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. | Pope House Museum

Fall African American Walking Tours 10–11 a.m., 1–2 p.m., 3–4 p.m. | Pope House Museum

Raleigh Kids Holiday Bricks & Minifigs Treasure Hunt 2:00–3:00 p.m. | Bricks & Minifigs

A Taste of Downtown Raleigh Food Tour 2:30–5:30 p.m. | City of Raleigh Museum

Wrap It Up – Pop-Up Gift Wrapping 2:00–6:00 p.m. | Person Street Bar

Evening & Night

HoliGAY Drag Show & Dinner Seating 5:30 p.m. | Showtime 6:30 p.m. | Libations 317 & Su-Z’s Asian Kitchen

Illuminate Art Walk Sip n’ Stroll Tour 5:45–6:45 p.m. | Raleigh

Walking Tours Crofton’s Pretzels 6:00 p.m. until sold out | Wolfe & Porter

Machine Gun Earl 60th Birthday Bash 8:00–11:00 p.m. | Slim’s Downtown

Saturday Night DJ Showcase 8:00 p.m.–Midnight | Boatman Spirits Co.

📅 Sunday, December 21, 2025

Morning & Midday

Sunday Run Club 9:00–10:30 a.m. | The Bike Library

Winter Solstice – Rest, Recover, Renew Soundbath 10:00–11:00 a.m. | The Self Care Marketplace

Sunday Tradition: Half-Priced Spaghetti & Meatballs 11:00 a.m.–10:00 p.m. | Gravy

Artspace Open Studio 1:30–3:30 p.m. | Artspace

Afternoon & Evening

Raleigh African American History Tour 4:00–5:00 p.m. | Jimmy V’s Osteria + Bar

FLOW YOGA + Sound Bath 6:00–7:00 p.m. | Wolfe & Porter

Gingerbread House Party 6:00–8:00 p.m. | Wolfe & Porter

Closing Performances: Here in America 2:00 p.m. Sunday | Burning Coal Theatre Company

Thick Modine with Scared of Robots 7:30–10:00 p.m. | Slim’s Downtown

Saturday Night Spins (Sunday Edition) 8:00 p.m.–12:00 a.m. | Boatman Spirits Co.

Worthdale Pajama Party Raleigh Municipal Building

Why Follow the DoRaleigh Downtown Raleigh Weekend Event Guide?

Downtown Raleigh offers a unique mix of arts, culture, fitness, food, and nightlife—all within walking distance. This guide helps you:

Follow DoRaleigh.com for daily updates on government meetings, local festivals, and community happenings — your one-stop guide to everything Raleigh!

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City of Raleigh Government Event Guide Weekend Edition (Nov 8–9, 2025)

Celebrate community, art, and nature this weekend in Raleigh!

From poetry in the garden to family fun fairs, public art walks, and Veterans Day celebrations, there’s something for everyone to enjoy across the city. Explore how local parks, recreation centers, and artists bring people together in this weekend’s City of Raleigh Government Event Guide.

🌿 Saturday, November 8, 2025

Eastgate Community Garden: Fall Harvest and Poetry Workshop

🕒 3 a.m. | Arts & Entertainment • Parks, Recreation, and Athletics

Experience the beauty of early morning poetry among the blooms at Eastgate Community Garden. Celebrate fall’s bounty and express your creativity with guided writing and nature-inspired activities.

Fall Arts Fair 2025 at Fred Fletcher Park

🕙 10 a.m. | Arts & Entertainment • Festivals and Special Events

Discover handmade art, live music, food vendors, and local makers at the annual Fall Arts Fair. Fred Fletcher Park comes alive with creativity — the perfect Saturday stop for holiday shopping or a relaxing stroll through Raleigh’s arts scene.

Public Art and Fall Nature Walk

🕥 10:30 a.m. | Arts & Entertainment • Parks, Recreation, and Athletics

Join local guides for a scenic nature walk that highlights public art installations throughout Raleigh’s green spaces. Learn how artists are blending environmental awareness with creative expression.

Veteran’s Day Celebration!

🕚 11 a.m. | Parks, Recreation, and Athletics

Honor those who served at Raleigh’s Veteran’s Day Celebration — a heartfelt community event featuring tributes, music, and activities for all ages.

Family Fun Day Fall Fair!

🕚 11 a.m. | Parks, Recreation, and Athletics

Celebrate fall with family games, crafts, and community fun. From pumpkin painting to seasonal snacks, it’s a perfect way to make autumn memories together.

Cocoa and Conversation – Bragg Street Park Public Art Project (CANCELED)

🕐 1 p.m. | Arts & Entertainment • Community & Workshops

This event has been canceled, but stay tuned for updates on future Bragg Street Park public art discussions and opportunities to engage in the creative process.

🎭 Sunday, November 9, 2025

A Day of Play – Playwrighting Workshop Series

🕐 1 p.m. | Arts & Entertainment

Aspiring writers and theater lovers, this one’s for you! Dive into the world of playwriting with a creative workshop that encourages participants to develop short scenes, characters, and dialogue in a supportive group setting.

Piedmont Grassland and Environmental Art Event

🕐 1 p.m. | Arts & Entertainment • Festivals and Special Events • Parks, Recreation, and Athletics

Explore the intersection of nature and art at the Piedmont Grassland event. Featuring live environmental art demonstrations and educational activities, this is an inspiring celebration of sustainability and creativity.

🏙️ Discover, Participate, and Connect

These events are part of the City of Raleigh’s ongoing commitment to fostering civic engagement, cultural exploration, and outdoor recreation. Whether you’re attending with family or exploring solo, there’s no better way to connect with your community this weekend.

🗓️ Plan your weekend and register where required via Raleigh Parks RecLink.

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City of Raleigh Weekend Event Guide August 16–17th Edition

Get ready, Raleigh! This weekend, the city is buzzing with family-friendly fun, community celebrations, and live entertainment. Whether you’re splashing in the mud, gearing up for back-to-school, or enjoying music under the summer sky, there’s something for everyone. Here’s your City of Raleigh Weekend Event Guide for Saturday, August 16 and Sunday, August 17, 2025.

Saturday, August 16, 2025

Mud Day

⏰ 10 a.m. | Parks, Recreation, and Athletics

Get messy and have a blast! Mud Day is the perfect way for kids (and adventurous adults) to enjoy nature, play, and get covered head to toe in good old-fashioned fun.

Back to School Giveaway

⏰ 11 a.m. | Parks, Recreation, and Athletics

Start the school year off right with free school supplies for families in need. A wonderful opportunity to support our community and ensure every student is ready for success.

Office of Special Events Pop-Up Engagement Event – POSTPONED

Originally scheduled for 5:30 p.m., this community engagement pop-up has been postponed. Stay tuned for updates on the rescheduled date.

Back to School Jamboree – John Chavis Memorial Park

⏰ 5:30 p.m. | Parks, Recreation, and Athletics

Celebrate the end of summer with games, food, music, and school giveaways. The perfect way to wrap up your Saturday with neighbors, friends, and family.

Sunday, August 17, 2025

Pop-Up Roller Skating Event

⏰ 1:30 p.m. | Parks, Recreation, and Athletics

📌 Register on RecLink

Lace up those skates and hit the floor for a surprise roller-skating party! Bring your best moves, or just come to cruise and enjoy the fun.

Summer Concert Series

⏰ 5 p.m. | Parks, Recreation, and Athletics

Wind down the weekend with live music in the park. Perfect for a picnic, an evening stroll, or simply soaking in the tunes as the sun sets.

Plan Your Weekend in Raleigh

From muddy adventures to roller disco vibes, this weekend offers a great mix of activities for all ages. Be sure to check DoRaleigh.com for updates, event details, and more happenings around the city.

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