EVENT CALENDAR
NC Hops Fest
The 5th annual NC Hops Festival will take place on June 14, 2025 at Midtown Park at North Hills. Enjoy unlimited sips of NC craft beverages while shopping with local vendors, dining from food trucks, and grooving to live music.
Cost: $51.75 per ticket
Intro to Machine Sewing Workshop
Join Seed Sewer’s as we explore the wonderful world of sewing! In this class you will learn how to thread and operate a sewing machine, get more familiar with various sewing tools, learn pinning, and more! The goal is to raise your confidence and to get you more comfortable using a sewing machine. Please bring your own machines and supplies if you are able; the instructor will have some machines, supplies, and fabric available for use if needed.
Capital City Juneteenth Celebration 2025
Juneteenth (June 19th) is the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the abolition of slavery in the United States. Bring your lawn chairs and blankets to enjoy an afternoon of entertainment, family activities, vendors and food at this community celebration presented by the Capital City Juneteenth Committee, City of Raleigh, and Dix Park Conservancy!
COST: FREE
Summer Concert Series
Throughout the month of June, join Waverly Place for Live Music Wednesdays in the Waverly Place Park, 5pm-8pm. You’ll be treated to a variety of popular, local bands playing a variety of genres. Make a date night of it or connect with friends and family. Bring a blanket and/or portable chairs to sit in the Park. Plan a late dinner at one of our restaurants or to stay after visiting one of our Waverly Place merchants.
06/04/2025, 5:30-8:30pm – The Embers Featuring Craig Woolard
06/11/2025, 5:30-8:30pm – THE MAGIC PIPERS
06/18/2025, 5:30-8:30pm – THE RAY BAND
06/25/2025, 5:30-8:30pm – NORTH TOWER
Theses concerts will be hosted light drizzle or shine. In the event of severe weather and cancelation/reschedule, we’ll provide an update via their site and our social media profiles.
NOTE: Wine and beer will be available for purchase on-site. Coolers and outside alcohol are not permitted.
COST: Free to attend
Beach Music: Blackwater Band
Back for its 16th season, our Midtown Beach Music Series continues to be a regional and local favorite. This series is a community-building event where guests can enjoy live outdoor music with their friends, neighbors, and co-workers. This concert series is held in the sweet spot of the warm weather season, April through June, for a 12-week season.
June 5th - The Catalinas
June 12th - Too Much Sylvia
June 19th - Blackwater Band
June 26th - The Embers ft. Craig Woolard
Cost: $6.15 per person
301 Endless Yard Sale
The 301 Endless Yard Sale will be June 20-21, 2025. It's always 7 AM to 5 PM and has become a spectacular event for dealers and shoppers, attracting visitors from across the country and even Canada.
The Sale stretches for over 100 miles on Highway 301. Shoppers will find the usual yard sale items like clothes, kitchen gadgets, vintage records, and toys. But you'll also discover truly unique items like old farm equipment and high-end antiques!
Cost: Free to attend
Out! Raleigh Pride
Out! Raleigh Pride is returning on June 20-21, 2025 for our 13th year! Join us on Fayetteville Street in downtown Raleigh! Friday, June 20th is the newest addition to Pride Month in the City of Oaks. Friday will focus on adults (18+) only entertainment and vendors. Friday night will run from 6:00pm to 10:00pm.
Saturday, June 21st from 12:00 pm to 7:00 pm is the action-packed, family-friendly festival you’re used to. The event offers live entertainment, local vendors and artists, great food, a KidsZone, and a beer garden! There is no admission fee for either day.
This event is an important way to raise the necessary funds to support the LGBT Center of Raleigh and all of its 20+ amazing community programs. Last year's event brought tens of thousands of people onto Raleigh’s Fayetteville Street to celebrate the LGBTQIA+ community, our friends, and families.
In the last decade, the event has become an integral part of Raleigh’s downtown culture, promoting diversity, awareness, and a sense of belonging for the LGBTQIA+ community. Each year has been more successful than the last, and this year will be no exception!
We look forward to seeing you there!
Cost: Free to attend
Summer Solstice Sunset Yoga
Celebrate the longest day of the year with an inspiring, large-scale community yoga class as the sun sets over the Museum Park. You’ll be led through guided meditation, breathing practices, seasonal self-reflection prompts, and gentle yoga movements to welcome the season of abundance.
Open to all levels and abilities. Bring a yoga mat and water bottle and dress comfortably for being outside on a summer evening with limited access to shade. Ages 16 and up.
Cost: $28, Members $25
Fenton Maker's Market
Maker’s Market is Back – Every 3rd Saturday of the Month.
Triangle Pop Up is returning in March for Fenton’s monthly Maker’s Market. Join us every 3rd Saturday of the month from 11am to 4pm in Fenton Square to enjoy local artists and live music. Browse the vendors, find a new favorite handmade item, and shop local!
Cost: Free to attend
Celebration of Life 5k Walk Run
Join them both online with a virtual run and in person, as we unite survivors, co-survivors and supporters in a testament to strength, hope and community.
Cost: $30+
Summer Concert Series
Throughout the month of June, join Waverly Place for Live Music Wednesdays in the Waverly Place Park, 5pm-8pm. You’ll be treated to a variety of popular, local bands playing a variety of genres. Make a date night of it or connect with friends and family. Bring a blanket and/or portable chairs to sit in the Park. Plan a late dinner at one of our restaurants or to stay after visiting one of our Waverly Place merchants.
06/04/2025, 5:30-8:30pm – The Embers Featuring Craig Woolard
06/11/2025, 5:30-8:30pm – THE MAGIC PIPERS
06/18/2025, 5:30-8:30pm – THE RAY BAND
06/25/2025, 5:30-8:30pm – NORTH TOWER
Theses concerts will be hosted light drizzle or shine. In the event of severe weather and cancelation/reschedule, we’ll provide an update via their site and our social media profiles.
NOTE: Wine and beer will be available for purchase on-site. Coolers and outside alcohol are not permitted.
COST: Free to attend
Beach Music: The Embers
Back for its 16th season, our Midtown Beach Music Series continues to be a regional and local favorite. This series is a community-building event where guests can enjoy live outdoor music with their friends, neighbors, and co-workers. This concert series is held in the sweet spot of the warm weather season, April through June, for a 12-week season.
June 5th - The Catalinas
June 12th - Too Much Sylvia
June 19th - Blackwater Band
June 26th - The Embers ft. Craig Woolard
Cost: $6.15 per person
BrickUniverse LEGO® Fan Expo for all ages
On June 28th-29th, the BrickUniverse 2025 Imagine Tour will present a major exhibition of works by celebrated artists from around the country.
HIGHLIGHTS:
- Explore stunning exhibits and incredible LEGO® brick artwork
- Meet professional LEGO® artists and discover their exclusive building techniques
- Express your creativity in engaging, hands-on brick building zones
- Shop from top LEGO® vendors offering unique products
- Build a LEGO® Brick Maze
Cost: $18+
Raleigh Food Truck Rodeo
Join us for the Raleigh Food Truck Rodeo Series presented by Shop Local Raleigh!
We can’t wait to see you June 28th and August 24th in Downtown Raleigh as we host an epic gathering of local food trucks!
From savory flavors to sweet treats, there’s something to satisfy every craving and cuisine curiosity. Whether you’re a fan of gourmet burgers, delicious tacos, or decadent desserts, our food truck rodeo promises to have something for everyone!
Cost: Free to attend
Festival for the Eno
Join the fun at the Festival for the Eno on July 4th and 5th in Durham! This beloved annual event celebrates the rich cultural and natural heritage of the Eno River with two days of live music, art vendors, food trucks, and family-friendly activities. Enjoy scenic views along the river while discovering unique crafts, delicious food, and engaging performances. It’s the perfect way to spend the holiday weekend in Durham, honoring community and nature in a festive atmosphere.
COST: TBD (visit the link below for updates)
City of Raleigh July 4th Celebration at Dorothea Dix Park
Join the City of Raleigh for a spectacular July 4th Celebration at Dorothea Dix Park! This family-friendly event features live music, delicious food trucks, fun activities for all ages, and a stunning fireworks show to cap off the evening. Gather with friends and family for a memorable Independence Day celebration in one of Raleigh's most scenic parks.
Time: parks open at 5:30pm (fireworks start at 9:30pm)
COST: FREE
GalaxyCon Raleigh
GalaxyCon Raleigh is a 4-Day FESTIVAL OF FANDOM with celebrities, artists, writers, voice actors, cosplayers, entertainers, creators, wrestlers, fan groups, panelists, and PEOPLE LIKE YOU!
Join fans from across the galaxy and celebrate Comic Books, Pop Culture, Sci-Fi, Fantasy, Anime, Gaming, Cosplay, and more!
COST:
Kids 4 and under: FREE
Kids 5-9: $20+
Single Day - 4 Day Premium Reserve VIP : $45 - $2700
**USE CODE GALAXY20 FOR 20% OFF ADMISSION
2025 Beer, Bourbon & BBQ Festival
Cary’s Favorite Festival is Back and Better than Ever. Get ready to enjoy all those pleasures that true Southerners live by – Beer, Bourbon, Barbeque, Boots, Bacon, Biscuits, Bluegrass and Smoked Beasts! It’s two great days of beer sippin’, bourbon tastin’, music listenin’, and barbeque eatin’. Your admission buys you a sampling glass so you can enjoy an ALL-YOU-CARE-TO-TASTE sampling of beer and bourbon.
COST: starting at $45
DD Tickets are $25
CaribMask Carnival Raleigh
Join the celebration of Caribbean culture at CaribMask Carnival in Raleigh on August 16th! This vibrant event features a colorful parade, live music, traditional dances, and a variety of delicious Caribbean food. It’s a festive, family-friendly event that showcases the rich heritage and traditions of the Caribbean community in a lively and fun atmosphere.
COST: TBD (visit the link below for updates)
Lazy Daze Arts & Crafts Festival
Join us for the 49th annual Lazy Daze Arts & Crafts Festival showcasing over 250 exceptional artists from across the country! Enjoy live entertainment on four stages, savor delicious offerings from 25+ food vendors, and relax in our beer garden & Lazy Lounge. Kids will love Kid Daze with fun activities throughout including the new Kid Collectors Market, where they can purchase pint-sized pieces created by our Lazy Daze artists! Participate in interactive art activities, engage with demonstrations by professional artisans, and embrace the “Lazy Daze” of summer. We can’t wait to see you there!
COST: FREE
2025 Hopscotch Music Festival
This highly anticipated festival brings together a diverse lineup of artists from indie, rock, hip-hop, electronic, and more. With performances held at various venues across the city, it’s a vibrant celebration of music and culture that promises to bring something for everyone. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable weekend of live music and exciting experiences!
COST: TBD (visit the link below for updates)
Raleigh Wide Open Bluegrass Festival
Formerly known as IMBA Bluegrass Live!
The event will feature free stages for music, food, families and fun all over downtown Raleigh.
Bluegrass will always have a home in Raleigh - and the best audience in the world, too. Save the date and plan to join the fun Oct. 3-4, 2025.
COST: FREE (tickets required to access Red Hat Amphitheater)
Playthrough Gaming Convention
NC’s Largest Gaming Convention!
Playthrough is a two day gaming convention taking place in Raleigh, North Carolina. It's a weekend long extravaganza showcasing the latest games and providing an opportunity for gamers to meet others who share their passion. Whether you are interested in video games, eSports, tabletop games, or play testing new creations, Playthrough has something for everyone!
COST: TBD (visit the link below for updates)
2025 NC State Fair
NC’s Largest Gaming Convention!
The N.C. State Fair is the place to be this fall! The fair creates an experience unique to North Carolina and is an unparalleled value with free entertainment, thrilling rides and games, thousands of animals, endless family activities, competitions, vendors and creative deep-fried delights.
COST: varies (visit the link below for more details)
WRAL First Night Raleigh
Festivities begin with the early afternoon City Plaza outdoor musical performances and the Children’s Celebration at 2pm. Performances and activities will continue throughout the evening across multiple indoor venues throughout Downtown Raleigh. The night is capped off with music on the outdoor Main Stage, the famous Raleigh Acorn Drop, and a spectacular fireworks show.
COST: TBD (visit link below for updates)
Nascar Regional - Advance Auto Parts 160
Join us for another exciting night of NASCAR Regional racing action! The green flag drops on the Advance Auto Parts Night at the Races 160 at Wake County Speedway. Come see the future stars of NASCAR at America's Favorite Bullring, just 15 minutes south of downtown Raleigh off US401 South. Tickets can be purchased online until 7 pm on race night or in person, at the ticket booth beginning at 6 pm on race night.
Cost: $15+
Museum Movie Night
Join them for a fairy tale adventure unlike any other with our June 13th installment of Museum Movie Night. When a green ogre named Shrek discovers his swamp has been ‘swamped’ with all sorts of fairytale creatures by the scheming Lord Farquaad, Shrek sets out with a very loud donkey by his side to ‘persuade’ Farquaad to give Shrek his swamp back. Instead, a deal is made. Farquaad, who wants to become the King, sends Shrek to rescue Princess Fiona, who is awaiting her true love in a tower guarded by a fire-breathing dragon. But once they head back with Fiona, it starts to become apparent that not only does Shrek, an ugly ogre, begin to fall in love with the lovely princess, but Fiona is also hiding a huge secret. In addition to science activities and stations before the movie, we’ll host an expert and movie trivia (with prizes) following the screening. Don’t miss it!
5:30-7pm: Live music, and science stations
Cost: $5/$3 for Museum members
Beach Music: Too Much Sylvia
Back for its 16th season, our Midtown Beach Music Series continues to be a regional and local favorite. This series is a community-building event where guests can enjoy live outdoor music with their friends, neighbors, and co-workers. This concert series is held in the sweet spot of the warm weather season, April through June, for a 12-week season.
June 5th - The Catalinas
June 12th - Too Much Sylvia
June 19th - Blackwater Band
June 26th - The Embers ft. Craig Woolard
Cost: $6.15 per person
Board Game and Speed Dating
Searching for a partner can be horrifically painful. But board games are always awesome. So what if you combined board games and finding a partner? (Ages 25-39)
Picture this: You sit down for a night of games. A gaming concierge walks you through several games over the course of the night. You play classics you love and discover brand new games you've never heard of, playing each with a different group of fun singles. All while in a great establishment with plenty of delicious options on tap. At the end of the night, you give your gaming concierge a list of the folks you met that you'd like to date and a list of those you met that you'd like to just hang out with as friends. If any two people put down the same name as each other in either column, then your gaming concierge will make sure you get each other's e-mail address and you can coordinate a time to hang out.
Best case scenario: You find true love, discover some awesome board games, and make some new friends.
Bad case scenario: You accomplish only one of those three things, which is still pretty great.
Worst case scenario: There will be alcohol.
Cost: $30-$35
Summer Concert Series
Throughout the month of June, join Waverly Place for Live Music Wednesdays in the Waverly Place Park, 5pm-8pm. You’ll be treated to a variety of popular, local bands playing a variety of genres. Make a date night of it or connect with friends and family. Bring a blanket and/or portable chairs to sit in the Park. Plan a late dinner at one of our restaurants or to stay after visiting one of our Waverly Place merchants.
06/04/2025, 5:30-8:30pm – The Embers Featuring Craig Woolard
06/11/2025, 5:30-8:30pm – THE MAGIC PIPERS
06/18/2025, 5:30-8:30pm – THE RAY BAND
06/25/2025, 5:30-8:30pm – NORTH TOWER
Theses concerts will be hosted light drizzle or shine. In the event of severe weather and cancelation/reschedule, we’ll provide an update via their site and our social media profiles.
NOTE: Wine and beer will be available for purchase on-site. Coolers and outside alcohol are not permitted.
COST: Free to attend
Farm to Fork
Held in the Triangle for more than 16 years, the Farm to Fork Picnic is a showcase of North Carolina chefs, artisans, and farmers paired together to create sips and nibbles of the region’s best flavors and seasonal ingredients!
Grab your friends and family and join us for a delightful summer foodie experience. Chefs and farmers are teamed up to create small bites at tasting stations throughout the beautiful grounds of Donovan Manor.
Cost:
Adults: $125
Children 5-12: $50
Children under 5: Free
4th Annual Summer Fest
🎉 Summer Fest at Clouds Brewing Taproom 🎉
June 7&8 | Saturday 1–10pm & Sunday 2–8pm
Family-Friendly | Free Entry
Join us for a full weekend of sun-soaked fun at Clouds Brewing Taproom during our annual Summer Fest! It’s two days packed with cold beer, live music, games, and activities for the whole family. Whether you're here to sip on craft brews, enjoy live tunes, or keep the kids entertained, there’s something for everyone!
🌟 Saturday Highlights (1–10pm)
🍻 4th Annual Summer Beer Fest (1–6pm)
Outside tent pouring session IPAs, fruited lagers, sours, seltzers, and more from top breweries across the state! Purchase Beer Fest tickets at the door ($2 / 4oz pour) No limit for ticket purchase. Try as many as you like!
🎶 Live Music:
Russ Thompson 2–3:30pm
Scrapes 6–9pm
🍉 Watermelon Eating Contest 4pm
🎯 Water Balloon Toss Contest 5pm
🎮 Lawn Games: Water Pong, Can Jam
🍺 Clouds Beer available all day inside at our regular bar
🌈 Sunday Highlights (2–8pm)
🦙 Petting Zoo – 2–4pm
🎈 Bounce House – 2–6pm (Toddler Time: First 10 min each hour)
✨ Fairy Hair – 2–8pm
🎯 Water Balloon Toss Contest – 4:30pm
🎲 All-day games & family fun
Bring your friends, bring the kids, and don’t forget your summer spirit—Summer Fest is back and better than ever!
Linked and Inked
Join Zapped Raleigh for all things permanent featuring flash sheet fine line tattoos, piercings, permanent jewelry, and trucker hats alongside drinks at Vintage Raleigh West!
Flash Street Fine Line Tattoos
Permanent Jewelry
Piercings
Lip Blushing
Trucker Hats
Fairy Hair
and more!
Cost: Free to attend
Raleigh’s International Food Festival
Raleigh’s 10th annual International Food Festival
Children’s Day, Two Stages with Live Performances, over 130 Food, Desserts, Merchandise Vendors!
COST: FREE
2025 Cary Pride Month Night Market
Discover a vibrant showcase of locally-crafted treasures while immersing yourself in an evening of music and entertainment at the Cary Night Market, organized by The Night Market Co. Join Triangle area LGBTQ+ artisans and allies for a gathering where an eclectic array of goods meets delectable food and drinks!
Know Before You Go
This event is open to the public.
This event is suitable for all ages.
Cost: Free to attend
Gibson Play Plaza Grand Opening
The announcement you've all been waiting for... Gipson Play Plaza opens with a Grand Opening community celebration presented by the Dix Park Conservancy!
Cost: Free to attend
Beach Music: The Catalinas
Back for its 16th season, our Midtown Beach Music Series continues to be a regional and local favorite. This series is a community-building event where guests can enjoy live outdoor music with their friends, neighbors, and co-workers. This concert series is held in the sweet spot of the warm weather season, April through June, for a 12-week season.
June 5th - The Catalinas
June 12th - Too Much Sylvia
June 19th - Blackwater Band
June 26th - The Embers ft. Craig Woolard
Cost: $6.15 per person
Summer Concert Series
Throughout the month of June, join Waverly Place for Live Music Wednesdays in the Waverly Place Park, 5pm-8pm. You’ll be treated to a variety of popular, local bands playing a variety of genres. Make a date night of it or connect with friends and family. Bring a blanket and/or portable chairs to sit in the Park. Plan a late dinner at one of our restaurants or to stay after visiting one of our Waverly Place merchants.
06/04/2025, 5:30-8:30pm – The Embers Featuring Craig Woolard
06/11/2025, 5:30-8:30pm – THE MAGIC PIPERS
06/18/2025, 5:30-8:30pm – THE RAY BAND
06/25/2025, 5:30-8:30pm – NORTH TOWER
Theses concerts will be hosted light drizzle or shine. In the event of severe weather and cancelation/reschedule, we’ll provide an update via their site and our social media profiles.
NOTE: Wine and beer will be available for purchase on-site. Coolers and outside alcohol are not permitted.
COST: Free to attend
TST 2025
The most exciting and highest stakes 7v7 soccer festival in the world, where legends, celebrities, and professionals share the pitch with one goal in mind… to win the $1 MILLION prize!
Cost: Ticket prices range depending on day. $40+
Pottery Paint & Sip
Join them for a fun night of pottery painting and sipping on your favorite drinks with friends!
Cost: $32.87 per person (includes one drink ticket)
Raleigh Iron Works Pride Kickoff
Join Raleigh Iron Works for a vibrant Pride Month celebration filled with community, creativity, and connection! Hosted by Raleigh Pride, enjoy a live DJ, stunning art installations, family-friendly activities, and explore LGBTQ+ retailers including Urban Pothos, Beatniks, and The Flourish Market. Plus, connect with local community resources supporting the LGBTQ+ community. Let’s celebrate love, inclusion, and pride—together!
This event is on June 1st from 11am-4pm, and will take place in our Courtyard- look for the large inflatable arch and you’ve found your way to this fun-filled pride celebration!
COST: Free to attend
BBQ & Bubbly
BBQ lovers and wine enthusiasts, this event is for you!
Fenton will host the inaugural BBQ & Bubbly – an elevated culinary experience pairing expertly crafted barbecue, world-class sparkling wines, local beers, and more – all for one inclusive price.
Schedule:
Saturday, May 31, 2025 from 12–4 PM at Fenton (VIP access from 12–1 PM).
Each ticket includes:
Unlimited BBQ from 10+ top chefs and pitmasters
Curated selection of 20 sparkling wines, plus local beers and cold brew coffee
Live music, 360° photo booth, fairy hair, face painting, balloon art, cotton candy, and kids’ games
BBQ mini masterclasses from two-times James Beard Award-winning author, certified barbecue judge, and Netflix-featured food historian Adrian Miller (sign-ups coming soon)
Free entry for children 6 and under
COST: $20.00 - $125.00 per person
UNC Health Championship
Get ready for four action-packed days of golf as the UNC Health Championship storms back to the historic Raleigh Country Club! As a key stop on the Korn Ferry Tour—the proving ground for the PGA Tour’s next big names—this fan-favorite event promises thrilling competition and unforgettable moments on the legendary Donald Ross-designed course.
Schedule:
Thursday – ½ Price Ticketing
Grounds, Clubhouse and #17 Hickory Club tickets are all 50% off
Friday – Collegiate Day
Free Admission with a college ID
Fun hangout zone “Campus Fairway” on hole #13
Discounted hot dogs, beer, wine, seltzers
Wear your school colors
Collegiate contests for great prizes
Hurricanes 2026 Preseason Game Ice Seats!
Yeti Cooler
And more!
Saturday – UNC Health Day
Carolina Hurricanes activities in the Fan Fairway and on course
Tar Heel Paws and Furr Friends therapy dogs
Sunday – Service Appreciation Day presented by First Citizens Bank
On Sunday, we honor our military and first responders. First Citizens has partnered to give all those who are active or retired military, fire and rescue personnel FREE entry with appropriate ID. Military personnel will join us in special roles throughout the day.
COST: Ticket Prices Vary
NC Sugar Rush
Indulge your sweet tooth at the NC Sugar Rush, a delightful dessert-only festival in the heart of downtown Raleigh! Enjoy six hours of sugary bliss featuring over 20 dessert vendors offering treats like Italian ice, pineapple smoothies, funnel cakes, ice cream, popsicles, cookies, cupcakes, cookie dough, vegan delights, beignets, mini donuts, Belgian waffles, and more. Even your furry friends can join in the fun with pet-friendly treats available.
COST: FREE
Animazement 2025
Animazement is Raleigh's premier Japanese animation and culture convention! Enjoy concerts, educational panels, limited merchandise, unique artwork, and more!
COST: $65
Movie Night: Moana 2 @ Downtown Cary Park
In honor of Asian / Pacific American Heritage Month, join us for Moana 2 (PG), curated by The Cary Theater.
Come early to enjoy pre-screening activities for all ages, making it a perfect night out for everyone. Activities will include arts and crafts in Academy Pavilion, a visit from Moana herself with a sing-along session on the Great Lawn, and swim safety tips and giveaways from Goldfish Swim School of Cary. Prescreening activities are from 6 – 8 p.m. The film will begin at sunset, approximately 8:20 p.m.
Grab your cushions, blankets, and chairs for ultimate comfort as you settle in to enjoy the film. Food trucks will also be on site.
COST: FREE
Carolina Fear Fest
Get ready for a spine-chilling Memorial Day weekend at the 6th annual Carolina Fear Fest! This three-day horror extravaganza brings together fans, creators, and celebrities for a celebration of all things macabre.
Schedule:
Friday, May 23: 3 PM – 9 PM
Saturday, May 24: 10 AM – 6 PM
Sunday, May 18: 11 AM – 6 PM
COST: $10.00-125.00 per person
Live After 5!
Join your fellow music fans on North Carolina’s Main Street for four electrifying evenings that showcase the sounds that define our state's music industry.
Live After 5 is a Sip n' Stroll friendly block party with live music, vendors, food trucks, wine and beer for purchase, exclusive offerings from local businesses, and more.
COST: FREE
Artsplosure: The Raleigh Arts Festival
Artsplosure's Raleigh Arts Festival is one of the most original and longest running arts festivals in North Carolina. Held annually on the third weekend of May in beautiful downtown Raleigh, the festival is a 2 day event and features an Art Market comprised of approximately 175 juried visual artists from across the United States showcasing works in ceramics, glass, fiber art, jewelry, metal, painting, photography, wood and more. The festival presents national and regional entertainment on two stages, provides arts-based activities for children, and presents large-scale temporary art installations each year. Annual festival attendance averages 85,000+.
Schedule:
Saturday, May 17th: 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Sunday, May 18th 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
COST: FREE
Cary Night Market
Discover a vibrant showcase of locally-crafted treasures while immersing yourself in an evening of music and entertainment at the Cary Night Market, organized by The Night Market Co. Join Triangle area artisans for a monthly gathering where an eclectic array of goods meets delectable food and drinks!
COST: FREE
Got To Be NC Festival
Celebrate North Carolina's finest at the annual Got to Be NC Festival! This family-friendly event showcases local food, music, agriculture, and fun for all ages.
Festival Highlights:
Masonic Carolina Pig Jig: Savor mouthwatering BBQ at this delicious competition.
Carnival Rides & Games: Thrilling fun for kids and adults alike.
Farm Animals & Exhibits: Get up close with local agriculture.
Live Music & Entertainment: Enjoy performances from talented local artists.
Got to Be NC Pavilion: Shop a variety of North Carolina-made products from local vendors.
Schedule:
Friday, May 16: 12 PM – 10 PM
Saturday, May 17: 10 AM – 10 PM
Sunday, May 18: 10 AM – 8 PM
COST: FREE
Juniper Level Botanic Garden Spring Open House (3 Weekends)
During Open Garden and Nursery weekends, JLBG has horticultural staff available to assist you with finding plants, answer your questions and direct you around the garden as well as free educational programs to help you flourish as a gardener.
Dates:
Friday 5/2 - Sunday 5/4
Friday 5/9 - Sunday 5/11
Friday 5/16 - Sunday 5/18
COST: FREE
NC Community Action Association's Sneaker Ball
Lace up your best sneakers and step out for a night of impact at the Annual Sneaker Ball, hosted by the North Carolina Community Action Association (NCCAA).
This unique and stylish event is more than just a party—it's a tribute to the dedicated frontline workers, board members, and volunteers who work tirelessly to support low-income individuals and families across North Carolina.
From the mountains to the coast, community action agencies provide essential programs, including Head Start, Meals on Wheels, Workforce Development, and Section 8 Housing, helping uplift communities in all 100 counties. The Sneaker Ball raises funds and awareness for these vital efforts while giving guests a chance to celebrate, network, and champion change in their communities.
Put on your finest attire and your freshest kicks for a night of music, inspiration, and recognition—because making a difference never goes out of style!
COST: $99.00 - $149.00 per guest
Pearl Jam @ The Lenovo Center
Experience the legendary Pearl Jam live as they bring their Dark Matter tour to Raleigh for two unforgettable nights. Celebrating their 3x GRAMMY-nominated album Dark Matter, the band returns to the city for the first time in 26 years . Don't miss this chance to witness their iconic sound and energy in person!
Dates:
Sunday, May 11th @ 7:30pm
Tuesday, May 13th @ 7:30pm
COST: $187+/person
Raleigh's Spring Time Mother's Day Festival
Welcome to Raleigh's Spring Festival! Join us for a day of fun and celebration at Moore Square on Sat. May 10, 2025. This event is perfect for families, friends, and anyone looking to enjoy the spring season. With live music, food vendors, arts and crafts, and more, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Best of all, admission is FREE! So mark your calendars and come out to celebrate with us at Raleigh's Spring Festival.
COST: FREE