- 20+ Most Kid-Friendly Coffee Shops in Raleigh & the Triangle - August 29, 2025
- Best Kids Fall Activities in the Triangle: Farms, Festivals, and Fun Events 🍁 - August 1, 2025
- 30+ Fun Things to Do in Cary NC With Kids - July 23, 2025
Looking for family friendly events in Raleigh this weekend? While you could pore through countless Facebook event listings and online calendars, wouldn’t it be so much easier if you had all the best events for kids in one place?
I thought so, too! So I’ve set out to do exactly that.
When you’re searching for kid-friendly things to do in the Triangle this weekend (and every weekend), I hope you’ll head here!
I’m a local mom, and every week I curate a list of the coolest events around the Triangle for kids and families. While these events center largely around Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill (the OG Triangle cities), I do my best to include events from all over the Triangle. That way, you don’t miss any events in your neck of the woods—or worth traveling for.
You can also check out our list of top things to do in the Triangle with kids anytime!
Family Friendly Weekend in the Triangle – September 12, 13, and 14, 2025
PS: While I do my very best to make sure this event list is accurate, I always recommend reaching out to venues or event providers directly to confirm information before you go.
*NOTE !* Events with FREE ENTRY/FREE ADMISSION are displayed with a GREEN background. These events may have costs for food, activities, etc. Hope you find this helpful!
Jump to a Date:
Featured: NC Collector’s Roadshow!
NC Collector’s Roadshow
📍 NC State Fairgrounds – Raleigh, NC
📅 Saturday, Sept. 13 – 9am – 10pm; Sunday, Sept. 14 – 10am – 3pm
Raleigh’s premier sports card & pokemon show is back this weekend! 🏟️🔥
Shop, trade & collect with top vendors, rare finds, and must-have pulls. Don’t miss one of the premier hobby events in the state!
🎟️ Tickets available at the door, $5 day & $7 weekend – 10 and under FREE
🎲 Games and cash prizes throughout the show!
Tag your crew & we’ll see you there! 👊 #SportsCards #Pokemon #CardShow
Friday September 12
Jumperoo – Urban Air (Raleigh)
Every Friday | 8:00am-10:00am
Join us for a fun-filled day at the park! We’ll be open for little ones (ages 5 and under) every Friday.
Preschool Open Play – JPCC Dance Studio (Wake Forest)
Friday September 12 | 8:00am-4:00pm
Ages 1-5.
Hike with a Naturalist – Yates Mill (Raleigh)
Friday September 12 | 9:00am-10:30am
Join one of our naturalist staff members on a guided hike around the park to discover the plants and animals that live here! Come prepared to hike at least a mile on natural surfaces by wearing close-toed shoes and bringing a full water bottle. Suggested for ages 8 and up; FREE. Registration is required for all family members, and children must have adult accompaniment. Please arrive at the park office five minutes early for program check-in.
Preschool Play – Zebulon Community Center (Zebulon)
Friday September 12 | 9:00am-2:00pm
This program is designed for children ages birth to five years of age and their parent or caregiver. Our newly designed Preschool Sensory Room will create the perfect atmosphere for self-led preschool play! Children will have access to freely explore the Sensory Room, which includes access to tons of fun toys and developmental activities! Children must be accompanied by an adult. Age: up to 5.
Mini Mites Open Gym – Peak Gymnastics (Apex)
Every Friday | 10:00am-11:00am
18mos-3yrs, $5.
Scavenger Hunt Stroll – Prairie Ridge Ecostation (Raleigh)
Friday September 12 | 10:00am-11:00am
Let’s go exploring! Join us as we put on our hiking hats and go explore the trails of Prairie Ridge. As we walk, we’ll do a themed scavenger hunt to dive into nature on a deeper level. We’ll stop and smell the wildflowers and take the time to appreciate and learn about the things that catch our interest along each path! This program requires registration. Ages 3-7.
Nature Tales: Monarch Mania – NC Botanical Gardens (Chapel Hill)
Friday September 12 | 10:00am-11:00am
Flit, flutter, fly! It’s monarch time! We will learn about the amazing journey these butterflies make each year while we read stories and sing songs. Then we will search the Garden for caterpillars and butterflies. This family-friendly program has been designed especially for children ages 3–7. Come dressed for the weather and prepared to take a walk! FREE, but registration is required.
Garden Storytime – JC Raulston Arboretum (Raleigh)
Friday September 12 | 10:00am-11:00am
Bring your family and join us for a morning of outdoor garden fun! Garden Storytimes are a great way for families with preschool children to experience the garden. You’ll start with a stroll through the garden with the Children’s Program staff and volunteers to see what’s happening in the gardens, read a few children’s books with a garden twist, and go home with a garden-themed craft created by your little one. Parents and caregivers stay and participate with their children in the activities. Registration required. Suggested for ages 3 to 5 years old.
Neighbor Boy Fall Fest – Neighbor Boy Farm (Apex)
Friday September 12 | 2:00pm-8:00pm
There’s no better way to welcome fall than a day full of simple, old-fashioned fun. Bring the family out for a farm scavenger hunt, mums and pumpkins galore, and fresh fall veggies. Ice cream, lemonade, and snacks. Pumpkin painting available Saturday. Slow down, soak up the season, and make memories.
Lakeside Retreats Family Campout – Lakeside Retreats (Raleigh)
Friday September 12 | 4:00pm
Our Second Annual Family Campout is Coming — and YOU make it magical!
Think: outdoor retreat sprinkled with festival fun. This is more than a Campout — it’s a celebration of community, connection, creativity, exploration, and good old-fashioned unplugged fun! This is a FREE ticketed event, each family member needs a ticket 🎟️ Bring your own tent and Campout for the weekend or upgrade your experience to a Glamping set up or Yurt.
We’re gathering under the open sky for a weekend full of:
* Face painting
* Bounce house fun
* Epic fire show – Nordic PyroTechnics
* Featured speaker- Family Connection workshop – Jen Shepard
* Flow arts workshop
* Art tent for endless creation
* Tie dye, hug shirts
* Family games like tug-of-war and potato sack races
* Karaoke, yoga, sound bath, breathwork, drum circle, forest bathing, and s’mores!
We’ll do all this and more— grounding ourselves in nature and each other. Join us in creating something meaningful together.
Run & Roam Fridays – The Plant (Pittsboro)
Friday September 12 | 4:00pm-8:00pm
Join us after work and school for Run & Roam Fridays! One place. Fun for the whole family! Food, drinks, bubbles, hula hoops, games & more!
Fridays at the Farm – Old Mill Farm (Durham)
Fridays March-October | 4:00pm-9:00pm
Join us for live music, food trucks, local beer & wine & farm fun every Friday night from March through October! Gates open at 4pm, live music starts at 6pm! Family fun on the farm with a little something for everyone.
Soil & Compost Nature Activity – Wilkerson Nature Preserve (Raleigh)
Friday September 12 | 4:30pm-6:00pm
Get your hands soily as we learn all about soil! Learn how various types of soil look and feel differently, and how they interact with water differently. Become a junior soil scientist and determine which kind of soils are found at the preserve! Learn how you can even make soil at home with your food scraps! Ages 8-14.
For Friday’s Sake – For Garden’s Sake (Durham)
Friday September 12 | 5:00pm-7:30pm
T-Minus TWO weeks until our favorite time of the year- For Friday’s Sake! 🍁🎶
We are celebrating all September long with extended hours from 5-7:30pm filled with live music, drinks + sweet treats at the Potting Shed, food trucks and fall vibes. Celebrate Fall with us by shopping our seasonal items like pumpkins and mums- coming at the beginning of the month! 🎃 Stay tuned for weekly food truck and live music band announcements. We will see you there!
Second Friday Market & Movie Night: E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial – Moore Square (Raleigh)
Friday September 12 | 5:00pm-9:00pm
Free Outdoor Movie Night, Food Trucks, Market, Games in Downtown Raleigh at Moore Square.
Kid’s Night Out: Super STEAMio Adventure – Alston-Massenburg Center (Wake Forest)
Friday September 12 | 5:30pm-8:30pm
Inspired by Super Mario! Kids will build their own cart raceways and design STEAMio characters and challenges. It’s fast-paced, creative fun with engineering and imagination in every corner. Ages 6-12.
Kids Night Out – Museum of Life and Science (Durham)
Friday September 12 | 5:30pm-8:30pm
Drop your little ones off for a kids-only evening of hands-on fun. We’ll eat pizza, play games, explore exhibits, and work together on science experiments. Your kids will have a blast while you’re off enjoying a few hours to yourself. Each Kids Night Out runs from 5:30 to 8:30 pm and will offer new activities and places to explore. Be sure to sign up for multiple dates!
“Back To School Bash” Cooking Class – Flour Power Cary Parkside (Cary)
Friday September 12 | 6:00pm-8:00pm
It’s back to school time, so take a break from the homework tonight as we stir up a ton of fun with Pizza and Lava Cakes with Homemade Oreo Ice Cream! Ages 5-12.
“Food Science & Kitchen Art” Cooking Class – Flour Power North Hills (Raleigh)
Friday September 12 | 6:00pm-8:00pm
Join us tonight as we use cooking ingredients for science experiments and turn food into art… just like magic! We will do two science experiments: Baking Soda Volcano and Salt Painting plus make Stained Glass Cookies and Spaghetti & Meatball Cups. Come join us for a fun evening! Ages 5-12.
Freakier Friday Skate Party – Wheels (Durham)
Friday September 12 | 6:00pm-8:30pm
Celebrate the release of the Freaky Friday sequel with a night of skating, music, and movie magic! Whether you’re a fan of the original or love the latest Disney hits, this party is your chance to get freaky on the rink.
What’s happening:
All Your Favorite Freaky Beats – Soundtrack hits from every Freaky Friday movie
Trivia Contest – Test your knowledge of movie moments and characters
Dinner Specials – Pizza, combos, and ICEEs at discounted prices
Glowstick Included with admission
Friday Night on White – Downtown (Wake Forest)
Friday September 12 | 6:00pm-9:00pm
Friday Night on White (FNOW) returns to downtown Wake Forest on April 11 and continues the second Friday night of each month through September 12. This year’s FNOW promises to be bigger and better than ever thanks to a power-packed lineup featuring several of our area’s most popular bands. Our 2025 concert series will feature Love Tribe (April 11); Sleeping Booty (May 9); Bounce! Party Band (June 13); The Punch Band (July 11); The Brickhouse Band (August 8); and Liquid Pleasure (September 12). Each concert is scheduled from 6-9 p.m.
Glow Night – Urban Air (Raleigh)
Every Friday | 6:00pm-9:00pm
Lights out party on! Glow Night is THE place to be is Urban Air Adventure Park. The atmosphere changes when the lights go out and the lasers turn on while the latest music keeps the party going.
Parents’ Night Out – Triangle Rock Club (Morrisville)
Friday September 12 | 6:00pm-9:00pm
Enjoy a night out on us! Do some climbing, take a yoga class, or enjoy a night out on the town without the kiddos (ages 5-12 welcome). Our staff will keep them entertained with climbing, games, and tons of fun activities!
Festival Latino – Garner Recreation Center (Garner)
Friday September 12 | 6:00pm-9:00pm
Celebrate Latino culture at this family-friendly event. The Festival will feature live music and dance performances, craft vendors, food trucks, a kids’ zone, and more!
Celebre la cultura latina en este evento familiar. ¡El festival contará con música en vivo y espectáculos de danza, vendedores de artesanías, camiones de comida, una zona para niños y más!
Rock the Block Concert Series with The Legacy Motown Revue – Downtown (Zebulon)
Friday September 12 | 6:00pm-9:00pm
Spend the evening listening to live music, enjoying tasty food trucks, visiting beer and wine vendors, supporting local craft vendors, and socializing with your neighbors Downtown Zebulon. Make sure to bring your lawn chairs or picnic blankets. Band will begin playing at 6:30 PM.
Summer at the Springs Featuring On the Rocks – Holly Springs Cultural Center (Holly Springs)
Friday September 12 | 6:00pm-9:00pm
Local bands take the outdoor stage for a family-friendly concert series with concerts from 6-9 p.m. on the second Friday of the month, June through September. Relax with the whole family on your favorite picnic blankets and lawn chairs. Grab dinner at our food truck rodeo, savor a beer from local breweries, and enjoy local acts performing the fan favorites.
Front Porch Fridays – Haven Farm (Knightdale)
Every Friday | 6:00pm-9:00pm
Join us every Friday for Front Porch Fridays, the highlight of our week! Experience the vibrant energy as we open our doors to the community. Enjoy live music, delectable food, exciting games, and dancing under the stars. Enjoy in a variety of refreshments including wine, beer, ice cream, snacks, and unique gifts available for purchase in our shoppe. Kickstart your weekend with us at Haven! Our playground awaits the little ones, while our friendly goats eagerly await your visit. Kickstart your weekend with us at Haven! Advanced registration is greatly appreciated to ensure we can provide the best experience for everyone attending.
Teen Climb Night – Triangle Rock Club (Durham)
Friday September 12 | 6:00pm-9:00pm
Talk beta, eat pizza, and climb with other teens! Teen Climb Nights are for climbers ages 12-16. TRC Staff will be there to facilitate and help belay, and we offer free belay instruction at the beginning of the evening to anyone not already certified.
Hog Day Festival – Downtown (Hillsborough)
Friday September 12 | 6:00pm-10:00pm
Join us for one of North Carolinas oldest BBQ festivals hosted right here in Historic Hillsborough. Lot’s of fun for the entire family featuring great music, an antique car show, craft vendors, a kids play area, food trucks, “pigs on parade” and the highlight of our festival, a local BBQ contest! This is a free event, held rain or shine and all proceeds go back to local charities in our community.
“The Gift” Puppet Stage Play – Forest Theatre (Chapel Hill)
Friday September 12 | 6:15pm-8:30pm
Every year we perform our annual pageant at the Forest Theatre in Chapel Hill, NC on UNC’s campus. This season will be performed from August 15 – September 28. Shows are held on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. Shows start at 7pm with an opener going on at 6:20pm.
Floor is Lava Night – Rock Solid Warrior (Fuquay-Varina)
Friday September 12 | 6:30pm-8:30pm
Back by popular demand! Come be a kid again and play all sorts of variations of “The Floor is Lava”! Lava Monsters, Cross the Lava, Save your Team, and other games with Ninja Twists! Ages 6+ without parental supervision! Parents are welcome to come, too!
Durham Bulls vs. Norfolk Tides – Bulls Athletic Park (Durham)
Friday September 12 | 6:35pm
Game Highlight: Friday Night Fireworks
Stick around after every Friday night home game for Friday Night Fireworks presented by bioMérieux!
Game Highlight: Hockey Night
Hockey Night returns to the DBAP in partnership with the Carolina Hurricanes!
QDR Homegrown Country Music Series – Philip H. Kohl MOSAIC Family Commons (Pittsboro)
Friday September 12 | 7:00pm-9:00pm
Two-step into the night at the QDR Homegrown Country Music Series, powered by Brightspeed! Saddle up at the Tommy Edwards Stage at the Philip H. Kohl MOSAIC Family Commons. This bash is a dream come true for country music lovers and line dancing aficionados, thanks to 94.7 QDR – your go-to for “Today’s Best Country!” Throw on those cowboy boots and get ready for two-stepping to classic country jams!
Food Truck Friday – The Glass Jug Beer Lab RTP (Durham)
Every Friday | 7:00pm-10:00pm
We love hosting local food trucks here at our RTP taproom! Come grab some grub every Friday night in the Beer Garden. We will have some of our favorite food trucks returning as well as some new ones!
Beauty and the Beast: The Musical – DPAC (Durham)
Friday September 12 | 7:30pm
Be Our Guest at BEAUTY AND THE BEAST, Disney’s first North American touring production of the beloved musical in over 25 years. This enchanting and timeless tale, filled with the romance and grandeur audiences know and love, has been brought to life like never before, with spectacular new sets and dazzling costumes. The show boasts the Oscar®-winning and Tony Award®-nominated score, including the classic songs “Be Our Guest” and “Beauty and the Beast.” Disney recommends its productions for ages 6 and up.
“The Sound of Music” Stage Play – Center Theater Company (Carrboro)
Friday September 12 | 7:30pm
Center Theater Company, a nonprofit community theater organization, is pleased to announce its upcoming production of The Sound of Music, opening on September 12 at Center Theater Company in Carrboro. Directed by beloved local director Tracy Bersley, this iconic musical, based on the true story of the von Trapp family, promises to captivate audiences with its unforgettable songs and moving story. The Sound of Music tells the heartwarming tale of Maria, a young aspiring nun who is sent to be the governess for a widowed naval captain’s seven children. As Maria and the children form an unlikely bond, they must navigate both the beauty of family and the shadows of political upheaval as World War II looms.
Mad Libs® Live! – Cantey V. Sutton Theatre (Raleigh)
Friday September 12 | 7:30pm-8:30pm
Get ready to laugh, sing, and fill in the blanks! Mad Libs Live! is a high-energy musical where YOU help create the show. Four quirky teens are competing on the hit TV show Teen Superstars – but just before they go on, they discover some of their songs are missing words! That’s where the audience comes in. You’ll suggest a variety of nouns, verbs, and adjectives, and the cast will perform a one-of-a-kind version of the show based on your answers. Every performance is totally different – and totally hilarious!
Saturday September 13
🥕Carrboro Farmer’s Market – Town Commons (Carrboro)
Every Saturday | 7:00am-12:00pm (April-October hours)
🥕Eno River Farmers Market – 144 E Margaret Ln (Hillsborough)
Every Saturday | 8:00am-12:00pm (April-December hours)
🥕Western Wake Farmers Market – Town Hall Drive (Morrisville)
Every Saturday | 8:00am-12:00pm
🥕Durham Farmers Market – The Pavilion at Durham Central Park (Durham)
Every Saturday | 8:00am-12:00pm (March-November hours)
🥕Cary Downtown Farmer’s Market – Downtown (Cary)
Every Saturday | 8:00am-12:00pm (April-October hours)
🥕Chapel Hill Farmers Market – University Place (Chapel Hill)
Every Saturday | 8:00am-12:00pm
Holly Springs Farmers Market – W. Ballentine Street (Holly Springs)
Every Saturday | 8:00am-12:00pm (April-October hours)
Eno River Farmers Market – Downtown (Hillsborough)
Every Saturday | 8:00am-12:00pm (April-December hours)
Eno River Farmers Market in downtown Hillsborough offers farm fresh vegetables and fruit, cheese, pasture raised meat and eggs, wood fire baked goods, prepared foods and crafts from local growers and producers. Our vendors are selected with great care based on the quality and diversity of their offerings; vendors must be local (within 60 miles of Hillsborough for traditional foods; within NC for specialty items such as peaches and apples) and the original producers of their products. We have live music, master gardeners, arts and crafts activities, chef demonstrations, and more!
🥕Wake Forest Farmers Market – Downtown (Wake Forest)
Every Saturday | 8:00am-12:00pm (April-September hours)
🥕South Durham Farmers Market – Hub RTP (Durham)
Every Saturday | 8:00am-12:00pm (April-October hours)
Neighbor Boy Fall Fest – Neighbor Boy Farm (Apex)
Saturday September 13 | 8:00am-6:00pm
There’s no better way to welcome fall than a day full of simple, old-fashioned fun. Bring the family out for a farm scavenger hunt, mums and pumpkins galore, and fresh fall veggies. Ice cream, lemonade, and snacks. Pumpkin painting available Saturday. Slow down, soak up the season, and make memories.
“Brain Food Bonanza” Cooking Class – Flour Power Cary Parkside (Cary)
Saturday September 13 | 9:00am-10:15am
Jump-start your brain with a power-packed breakfast! Learn how food fuels focus while making juicy turkey & veggie breakfast patties and buttery whole-wheat biscuits. Ages 9-18.
Elmo Meet & Greet – Little Doodles Play Cafe (Raleigh)
Saturday September 13 | 9:00am-11:00am
Join us for an Elmo meet & greet! Elmo will appear from 10:00-10:30. Open Play 9:00-11:00. Pre registration highly recommended, this even does sell out!
Rolesville Farmers Market – Cobblestone Village (Rolesville)
Saturdays March-October | 9:00am-1:00pm
We are back! Welcome to opening day at the Market. We will be at our new location in Cobblestone Village and will have great vendors, music by our best friend Darrel Darnell, and so much more. So come see us, we have missed you!
Vendor Fair at Treelight Square – Treelight Square (Wendell)
Saturday September 13 | 9:00am-2:00pm
Join us on Saturday, September 13th, from 9 AM to 2 PM at Treelight Square in Wendell for a special pop-up market event! We’re partnering with Sonder Coffee to bring you a fun day of shopping, great coffee, and supporting local businesses. Browse through a variety of vendors offering unique handmade goods, boutique clothing, home décor, and more, all while enjoying a delicious drink from one of Wendell’s favorite coffee spots.
Event Highlights:
-Local artisans and vendors
-Specialty drinks available from Sonder Coffee
-Family-friendly atmosphere
-Free admission and parking
Come spend a relaxing Saturday morning shopping and sipping at Sonder Coffee, supporting small businesses, and enjoying the local community. We can’t wait to see you there!
NC Collector’s Roadshow: Sports Cards & Pokémon Show – State Fairgrounds (Raleigh)
Saturday September 13 | 9:00am-4:00pm
Join us for the largest collection of sports cards, Pokémon, and other collectibles in the triangle with dealers from all over the southeast. Search through over 350 tables and find the missing piece to your collection! Cash prizes will be given away each hour, and a food truck will be on site each day. Kids 10 and under free.
Fall Open House – Smith’s Farm Market & Garden Center (Benson)
Saturday September 13 | 9:00am-6:00pm
Celebrate the season (my favorite) with us at our Fall Festival on Saturday, September 13th from 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM! This family-friendly day kicks off the first hayrides of the season and is filled with festive fun for all ages.
Here’s what you can enjoy: Hayride, Pumpkin Patch, Farm Animals, Homemade Ice Cream, Fresh-Cut Flowers, Nursery Plants & Mums, Unique Gifts & Market Finds, Product Samples, Yoga on the Farm, Face Painting & More. It’s the perfect way to welcome fall, spend time outdoors, and make memories with family and friends.
Fall Fun for Everyone – Grasshopper Farms (Knightdale)
Saturday September 13 | 9:00am-7:00pm
Kick off the season with our 4-acre corn maze and fun park—the perfect fall adventure for all ages! Whether you’re bringing family, friends, a school class, scout troop, or youth group, there’s something for everyone.
What’s waiting for you:
Corn Maze
A massive wooden play structure
Lots of swing sets
A giant 20ft x 20ft sandbox
Mini maze
Farm field games: Pumpkin Bowling, Duck Race, Corn Pit & more!
Pumpkin patch
Gemstone mining
Fresh fall produce
Country store & Ice Cream shop
And plenty more surprises!
Traffic Garden – Gipson Play Plaza at Dix Park (Raleigh)
Saturday September 13 | 9:00am-7:00pm
Come learn about bike, road, and pedestrian safety! Dix Park teamed up with Oaks and Spokes to bring a Traffic Garden to life at the Gipson Play Plaza — a mini, kid-sized street network designed for fun and learning.
Kids can explore a colorful world of small streets, intersections, stop signs, and bike lanes, all built just for them! The Traffic Garden is open for self-guided play, giving families the chance to practice safe walking, biking, and rolling skills in a low-stress, imaginative environment.
Bring your bike, scooter, or walking shoes and enjoy this unique, pop-up play space! Free and open to the public. Perfect for kids ages 3–10 (and kids at heart)!
Nature Journaling – JC Raulston Arboretum (Raleigh)
Saturday September 13 | 9:30am-11:00am
Nature journaling is a bit of drawing, a bit of science, and a lot of fun. It’s all worth the effort! Come take a walk with us and learn some new journaling techniques to help you become better at really “seeing” what’s always been right in front of you.
Perfect for both beginner and seasoned journalers. No artistic ability is required! We want to build an encouraging community and provide the time, space and inspiration for you to practice this fulfilling exercise. Bring your own journal materials, or try some of ours to see which you would prefer to invest in.
$20.00 per participant. Students under age 12 are free with an adult registration. Advanced registration is required. Visit our website for ticket information.
Kickball for Kids – Pineywoods Park (Durham)
Saturday September 13 | 10:00am
Kickball for Kids is a great opportunity for your child to have some outdoor fun with friends. This event is for children ages 4-12. The event is FREE but registration is required.
Lakeside Retreats Family Campout – Lakeside Retreats (Raleigh)
Saturday September 13 | 10:00am
Our Second Annual Family Campout is Coming — and YOU make it magical!
Think: outdoor retreat sprinkled with festival fun. This is more than a Campout — it’s a celebration of community, connection, creativity, exploration, and good old-fashioned unplugged fun! This is a FREE ticketed event, each family member needs a ticket 🎟️ Bring your own tent and Campout for the weekend or upgrade your experience to a Glamping set up or Yurt.
We’re gathering under the open sky for a weekend full of:
* Face painting
* Bounce house fun
* Epic fire show – Nordic PyroTechnics
* Featured speaker- Family Connection workshop – Jen Shepard
* Flow arts workshop
* Art tent for endless creation
* Tie dye, hug shirts
* Family games like tug-of-war and potato sack races
* Karaoke, yoga, sound bath, breathwork, drum circle, forest bathing, and s’mores!
We’ll do all this and more— grounding ourselves in nature and each other. Join us in creating something meaningful together.
Kids Little Splatters Painting Class – Cheers N Paint (Cary)
Saturday September 13 | 10:00am-11:00am
Our Little Splatters Paint Classes are recommended for kids 6 and up, who love art and want to learn how to paint! Kids learn to sketch their own canvas and then paint their masterpiece. They learn basic art skills and new art techniques each time they paint a canvas.
Woodland Wander Hike – West Point on the Eno (Durham)
Saturday September 13 | 10:00am-11:00am
Walk the trails at West Point on the Eno. Come and see what surprises nature has in store as the seasons change on this guided two-mile hike. Participants need to wear weather appropriate clothing and wear close-toed shoes. Preregistration is required for all participants. Ages 6 and up.
Kids’ Dog Show – Hank Anderson Dog Park (Carrboro)
Saturday September 13 | 10:00am-11:30am
Families are invited to bring their dogs out to the Dog Park for a fun family event. The Kids’ Dog Show will begin at 10:15am. The Dog Show is open to youth ages 4-14 and dogs 6 months or older. Fun Categories will include Most Original Costume, Terrific Tricks, Most Obedient, Least Obedient, Smallest and Largest, Best in Show. Call (919) 918-7392 for more information. Dog Show registration will begin at 9:45am and is open to the first 30 dogs! Ages: 4-14.
Come & Grow: Fantastic Fungi – JC Raulston Arboretum (Raleigh)
Saturday September 13 | 10:00am-12:00pm
Learn how fungi help plants grow, recycle nutrients, and even appear in some of our favorite foods through self-guided, family-friendly activities designed to spark curiosity and wonder. No need to arrive right at the program start time—families are welcome to come and “grow” as they please! In case of rain, this program will be canceled.
Art On The Greenway Ride Series: Ride #1 – Kiwanis Neighborhood Park (Raleigh)
Saturday September 13 | 10:00am-12:00pm
Join Oaks and Spokes and Raleigh Arts for three fun and social group rides to help shape the future of public art on Raleigh’s greenway system. These rides are part of an ongoing effort to identify where and what kinds of art could be added to make our greenways more vibrant, welcoming, and reflective of our community.
Along the way, we will visit or discuss several potential locations listed in the City of Raleigh Greenway Master Plan as priority sites for public art. These include sections of the Reedy Creek, Crabtree Creek, Little Rock, and Walnut Creek Trails. At each location, you can share your ideas about what types of public art you would like to see, such as tunnel murals, sculptures, wayfinding features, decorative fencing, infrastructure murals, or pathway art.
You do not have to pre-register to participate. Just arrive at the starting location by the posted start time for each ride. Our first ride will be a short, family-friendly outing starting at Kiwanis Neighborhood Park.
Kidz Bop Skate – United Skates of America (Raleigh)
Saturday September 13 | 10:00am-12:30pm
Kidz Bop and Disney Super Clean music
Visit the Fire Museum – Raleigh Fire Museum (Raleigh)
Saturday September 13 | 10:00am-2:00pm
The Raleigh Fire Museum is located at the Keeter Training Center at 105 Keeter Center Drive, Raleigh. The museum is open on the second Saturday of each month from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Parking and restrooms are available. Admission is free. Tours are also available by special appointment. Created and operated by a non-profit charitable organization, the museum is a collection of artifacts and images representing over 150 years of firefighting in the Capitol City.
Here’s what you can see and do:
–Experience Fire History
–Touch a Fire Truck
–Spray a Fire Hose
Annual Fall Festival & Plant Sale – Briggs Avenue Community Garden (Durham)
Saturday September 13 | 10:00am-2:00pm
You’re Invited to the 2025 Briggs Ave Community Garden Annual Fall Festival & Plant Sale! Join us for a fun-filled day at the garden as we celebrate the changing seasons with our Annual Fall Festival and Plant Sale! Whether you’re a seasoned grower or just getting started, there’s something for everyone.
Plant Sale – Stock up on fall and winter vegetables, herbs, and flowers for your garden
Pepper Tasting – Sample a variety of peppers, from sweet to spicy
Raffle Prizes – Enter for a chance to win garden goodies and local treats
Free Seeds & Compost – Take home what you need to grow your own!
Kids’ Activities – Family-friendly fun for all ages
Saturdays at the Farm – Sunrise Community Farm Center (Chapel Hill)
Every Saturday | 10:00am-5:00pm
Join us for Open Farm any Saturday throughout the year between 10 am and 5 pm! Rain or Shine, Cold or Hot? No problem!
–Feed the chickens
–Cuddle a bunny
–Explore the garden
–Pick your own produce
–Bring a picnic lunch to enjoy outside under our covered pavilion
–And more!
Epic Mighty Con – Wendell Community Center (Wendell)
Saturday September 13 | 10:00am-5:00pm
The 3rd annual Epic Mighty Con festival will feature celebrities, artist, writers, a cosplay contest and pop culture events. Kids 12 and under free.
Fall Makers Market – Holl & Stone Farm (Garner)
Saturday September 13 | 10:00am-5:00pm
Back by popular demand, our Fall Makers Market is coming Saturday, September 13th, from 10am -5pm. We have double the vendors and a food truck, and we are excited to celebrate the fall with you at the farm! Be sure to put this on your calendar; you don’t want to miss it!
The Second Annual Bearly A Concert Family Fun Day – Phillips Farms (Cary)
Saturday September 13 | 10:00am-6:00pm
What happens when you mix a family fun day at Phillips Farms with musical experiences and a big-hearted mission? You get the 2nd Annual Family Fun Day: Bearly a Concert—a day of farm adventures, animal encounters, toe-tapping fun, and a whole lot of community spirit!
Hog Day Festival – Downtown (Hillsborough)
Saturday September 13 | 10:00am-6:00pm
Join us for one of North Carolinas oldest BBQ festivals hosted right here in Historic Hillsborough. Lot’s of fun for the entire family featuring great music, an antique car show, craft vendors, a kids play area, food trucks, “pigs on parade” and the highlight of our festival, a local BBQ contest! This is a free event, held rain or shine and all proceeds go back to local charities in our community.
Thomas & his Friends in the Garden Ride – North Carolina Railway Museum (New Hill)
Saturday September 13 | 10:30am, 12:00pm, AND 1:30pm
Create lasting memories at Thomas and His Friends in the Garden Days Sat., September 13, and Sun., September 14. Come see familiar favorites Thomas, Percy, James, and other characters operate over 1,000 feet of G scale track. Kids also have the chance to take the controls on a kid-friendly miniature track. Plus, ride in excursion cars pulled by a full-sized locomotive and enjoy treats on Saturday from @willandpopsfoodtruck and @yoyo_froyo_frozen_yogurt.
Mad Libs® Live! – Cantey V. Sutton Theatre (Raleigh)
Saturday September 13 | 10:30am AND 3:00pm
Get ready to laugh, sing, and fill in the blanks! Mad Libs Live! is a high-energy musical where YOU help create the show. Four quirky teens are competing on the hit TV show Teen Superstars – but just before they go on, they discover some of their songs are missing words! That’s where the audience comes in. You’ll suggest a variety of nouns, verbs, and adjectives, and the cast will perform a one-of-a-kind version of the show based on your answers. Every performance is totally different – and totally hilarious!
Under the Tree Storytime – Quail Ridge Books (Raleigh)
Every Saturday | 10:30am-11:00am
Every Saturday, Sunday, and Monday morning, join our children’s booksellers as they read their favorite picture books. We’ll explore faraway places and visit cozy, comfortable spots. We’ll go back in time, visit the future, and celebrate the present through new books and beloved classics. These are fun for all ages! Duration: 30 minutes. Note: Please plan to stay with your child. Park strollers outside of the store so that we’ll have room for all!
Nature Creators – Prairie Ridge Ecostation (Raleigh)
Saturday September 13 | 10:30am-11:30am
Calling all creators and builders! Join us in the Nature PlaySpace as we bring out materials to create artwork or build structures, while we connect with the natural world around us. Each week will look a little bit different as we utilize different materials, strive towards different goals, and bring together different creative minds. A Museum staff facilitator will be present, helping to facilitate your creative experience.
This is a free, drop-in program. Staff and materials will be available between 10:30 and 11:30am, or until materials are gone. Come dressed for the weather and ready to get messy! Everyone is welcome at the Nature PlaySpace, but it has been designed especially for kids 7 and younger.
Fall in Stars Hollow – The Studio (Apex)
Saturday September 13 | 10:30am-3:30pm
Join us for a day full of celebrating all things Gilmore Girls by drinking Luke’s coffee, Trivia, shopping Rory’s Bookshelf, get your custom hand drawn portrait made of YOU in Stars Hollow and so much more fall fun!
Parents and Kids Day – Gathering Place Games (Chapel Hill)
Every Saturday | 11:00am
Come by with the whole family — little ones welcome! — for an afternoon mingle with fun and games for both parents and kids! TGP staff are on hand and more than happy to guide you through picking a game, finding a table, and learning more about our little slice of nerd heaven!
Africa Unplugged – The Carolina Theatre (Durham)
Saturday September 13 | 11:00am
Africa Unplugged will take you on a journey from the deep roots of the Blues in West Africa to the American South and back. With West African Drums as the through line to tell the story. Come experience high energy and engaging music as Africa Unplugged combines the old world with the new.
Africa Unplugged is led by renowned djembe master, songwriter, and educator, Atiba Rorie. The band combines traditional, west-African percussion instruments with guitar and bass to play traditional rhythms while drawing from global influences. The result is funky, soulful blues that keep you moving as they tell stories from the old world and the new.
JCPenney Kids Zone: Make a Football Tic-Tac-Toe Board – JCPenney (Various Locations)
Saturday September 13 | 11:00am-12:00pm
Join us in store: FREE craft activity plus extra savings coupon!
“Mini Moo Highland Cow” Painting Class – Wine & Design (Apex)
Saturday September 13 | 11:00am-12:30pm
Great for ALL ages, sign up to paint with us – Art Buzz Kids style! No artistic talent needed, just the desire to have fun! We take the time to guide you step by step to complete your very own masterpiece. You are welcome to either drop off your kid(s) and take the morning off OR stay and paint with them!
Mom & Tween/Teen Skincare Brunch And Learn – Bright Sky Aesthetics (Wendell)
Saturday September 13 | 11:00am-1:00pm
Bright Sky Aesthetics and Bare Rituals are excited to present there Mom & Tween/Teen Skincare Brunch + Learn on Saturday, September 13, 2025, from 11 AM to 1 PM. This special event is designed for moms and their tween or teen daughters and sons who want to learn about safe, age-appropriate skincare. They will cover skincare basics, product safety, and touch briefly on acne care—plus they will leave plenty of time for your questions and concerns.
Please go and enjoy a delicious brunch (menu coming soon!), sweet treats, and free skincare samples. Tickets are $50 total per pair, and space is limited. DM Bright Sky aesthetics or text/call 984-867-2170 to reserve your spot!
Tour & Explore an Animal Refuge – Piedmont Farm Animal Refuge (Pittsboro)
Saturday September 13 | 11:00am-2:00pm
On this tour, you will get to meet our 100+ farm animal residents and learn their rescue stories. Upon arrival, each group will receive a colorful, detailed map of the Refuge grounds. Wander at your own pace along several paths, meeting rescued goats, sheep, ducks, geese, chickens, turkeys, and cows. Our knowledgeable Tour Guides will be stationed throughout the Refuge to tell enchanting stories of animal rescues, introducing you to each animal by name.
International Cultural Festival – Fuquay-Varina Arts Center (Fuquay-Varina)
Saturday September 13 | 11:00am-3:00pm
This annual celebration of community diversity promises to be a day of experience: international foods, kids’ activities, wonderful performances, and opportunities to learn about different countries. Join us for a great day experiencing cultures beyond our borders!
An Afternoon in the Park – West Point on the Eno (Durham)
Saturday September 13 | 12:00pm-4:00pm
West Point on the Eno has long been a destination for recreation and relaxation for the people in the Durham community and beyond. Come enjoy an afternoon of historic field games, old-fashioned fishing in the Eno, and a special park tour to discover the many ways people have historically recreated in the beautiful setting of West Point on the Eno. Beer and cider will be available for purchase, proceeds will benefit Durham Parks Foundation and future projects at West Point on the Eno. Pre-registration required. All ages.
Raleigh Food Truck Rodeo – Fayetteville St. Downtown (Raleigh)
Saturday September 13 | 12:00pm-6:00pm
Get ready for a tasty late summer experience! Join us September 13th on Fayetteville St. 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!
Come Out and Play Sculpture Festival – JimGin Farm (Pittsboro)
Saturday September 13 | 12:00pm-8:00pm
For the 24th. year, artists are exhibiting their work at JimGin Farm beginning at 12 noon and ending at sundown. Artists keep 100% of sales and do not pay a fee to participate. There is live music, free food and drink, and a vast array of art. There is no admission free.
Little Stream Explorers – Prairie Ridge Ecostation (Raleigh)
Saturday September 13 | 1:00pm-2:30pm
Have you ever wondered about the stream running along the bottom of Prairie Ridge? Join us as we explore and see what we can find! Designed for early childhood audiences (ages 7 and under), this program will provide opportunities for hands-on observations and learning opportunities focusing on the organisms and habitats found in Prairie Ridge’s stream.
This is a free program beginning at 1pm at the picnic tables just below the Nature PlaySpace. We’ll walk together from the picnic tables to the stream entrance located in the Arboretum. Please come dressed for the weather and prepared to get wet! The streambed is rocky and uneven, and we will walk through water at times. Waterproof shoes, as well as a change of shoes and clothes, are recommended for both child and adult participants!
Family Workshop| Clay + Play: Sensory Ceramics – Artspace (Raleigh)
Saturday September 13 | 1:00pm-4:00pm
We invite both the parent + child to embark on a super hands-on 3D art making experience that’ll result in a fantastic and collaborative sculptural art piece. Artists young and older will have the chance to work with clay and activate all their senses while learning and applying real clay building techniques. Join us for this fun family workshop and together create a beautiful clay bubble bowl and flower!
Tickets are sold in pairs for one parent and one child. Additional tickets for parents and children can be purchased. This workshop is designed for ages 5-12 and a parent/guardian.
Buskers Day 2025 – NC Museum of Art (Raleigh)
Saturday September 13 | 1:00pm-5:00pm
Get ready for a vibrant afternoon of live music, movement, and creativity in every corner of our 164-acre Museum Park. Buskers Day is back and bigger than ever for 2025—celebrating the timeless art of street performance with North Carolina’s most talented buskers. Stroll the Park and discover an eclectic lineup of musicians, dancers, and performers turning pathways into stages and open air into atmosphere. Whether you’re here to play or just soak it all in, this is the perfect day to experience art in motion.
Free Ice Cream – Simon Says Dip This (Durham)
Saturday September 13 | 1:00pm-6:00pm
FREE ice cream this Saturday. Bring the family. No strings attached. Just sign up at BullCityFreebieSociety.org, show your confirmation, and enjoy. First come, first served. Don’t miss it.
Summer Bash Block Party – Edit Beer Co. (Raleigh)
Saturday September 13 | 1:00pm-10:00pm
The Summer Bash Block Party is a one-day event celebrating the end of summer season between Edit Beer Co. and Scooters Bar & Grill, two locally-owned businesses in Raleigh that have been operating for a combined total of over 30 years! We’ll be showcasing a variety of local retail and arts & craft vendors, accompanied by the folks at Edit & Scooters serving up tasty craft beer and food. In addition, local food trucks and THC seltzer brands will be on-site to keep you full and festive throughout the days.
To accompany the aforementioned, we’ll have DJ’s, local bands, all-ages ping pong tournaments, kids activities and none other than Tobacco Road Harley-Davidson showcasing featured bikes and participating in daily giveaways!
Durham Bulls vs. Norfolk Tides – Bulls Athletic Park (Durham)
Saturday September 13 | 1:05pm
Game Highlight: Champ the Bat Dog
See Champ, the younger brother of Ripken the Bat Dog, fetch bats at the DBAP! | Presented By Dr. Judy Morgan’s Naturally Healthy Pets
Game Highlight: Doubleheader (Game 1)
Join us for the first game of a day/night doubleheader at the DBAP! Please note that both games on Saturday, September 13 will be 7 innings in length per MLB rules.
NC Down Syndrome Alliance Squad at Paint Your Pot – Paint Your Pot (Cary)
Saturday September 13 | 1:30pm-3:30pm
Tweens ages 12 – 15 come bring your imagination to life through color and creativity at Paint Your Pot during the September Squad event!
Beauty and the Beast: The Musical – DPAC (Durham)
Saturday September 13 | 2:00pm AND 7:30pm
Be Our Guest at BEAUTY AND THE BEAST, Disney’s first North American touring production of the beloved musical in over 25 years. This enchanting and timeless tale, filled with the romance and grandeur audiences know and love, has been brought to life like never before, with spectacular new sets and dazzling costumes. The show boasts the Oscar®-winning and Tony Award®-nominated score, including the classic songs “Be Our Guest” and “Beauty and the Beast.” Disney recommends its productions for ages 6 and up.
Raleigh Sip N’ Stroll Treasure Hunt – Crank Arm Brewing (Raleigh)
Saturday September 13 | 2:00pm-3:00pm
Guests will meet at Crank Arm Brewing (319 W. Davie St.) and then depart with their treasure map on a walking team scavenger hunt through Raleigh’s Sip N’ Stroll social district where they will use their minds and feet to follow clues, solve puzzles, and crack codes to find and unlock the treasure chest! Children under 10 years old are welcome to participate for free with the purchase of an Adult ticket.
Performances for Young Audiences: Divinity Roxx – NC Museum of Art (Raleigh)
Saturday September 13 | 2:00pm-3:00pm
Let the music inspire you to be your BEST self! Celebrate self-love and positivity with Divinity Roxx. Roxx is a Grammy-nominated musician, recording artist, and composer who has toured the world with Beyoncé and now brings her uplifting energy to young audiences. Her live show is bursting with infectious grooves, empowering lyrics, and sunny, upbeat music that encourages kids to shine and become the best versions of themselves.
Roxx recently released her first family music album, Ready, Set, Go!, and is the author of two inspiring picture books published by Scholastic, Inc. Don’t miss this fun, feel-good experience that blends music, movement, and meaningful messages. Most enjoyed by ages 5+.
“The Sound of Music” Stage Play – Center Theater Company (Carrboro)
Saturday September 13 | 3:00pm AND 7:30pm
Center Theater Company, a nonprofit community theater organization, is pleased to announce its upcoming production of The Sound of Music, opening on September 12 at Center Theater Company in Carrboro. Directed by beloved local director Tracy Bersley, this iconic musical, based on the true story of the von Trapp family, promises to captivate audiences with its unforgettable songs and moving story. The Sound of Music tells the heartwarming tale of Maria, a young aspiring nun who is sent to be the governess for a widowed naval captain’s seven children. As Maria and the children form an unlikely bond, they must navigate both the beauty of family and the shadows of political upheaval as World War II looms.
For the Girls Vintage Market – Durham Central Park (Durham)
Saturday September 13 | 3:00pm-9:00pm
Join us at Durham Central Park for our 2nd For the Girls Market in Durham NC! A magical day of vintage finds, sweet treats, and all the whimsical twee vibes your cottagecore heart can handle. We’re featuring 20+ women-owned small businesses bringing you soft pastels, lace trims, handmade gems, and nostalgic knick-knacks galore. Grab your free ticket in our bio to let us know you’re coming!
Carolina Circus Festival: Magic & Mystery – Downtown Cary Park (Cary)
Saturday September 13 | 3:00pm-9:30pm
The Carolina Circus Festival is coming to Downtown Cary Park on September 13, 2025! Sponsored by Downtown Cary Park and Cary Magazine, this free, all-ages festival promises a full day of circus wonder — featuring jaw-dropping aerial acrobatics, fire & LED shows, hands-on workshops, delicious food trucks, a vibrant arts market, and fun activities for all. Get ready to be dazzled by this year’s enchanting Magic and Mystery theme!
Sparkle Day – Starpath Dance Academy (Cary)
Saturday September 13 | 4:00pm-5:30pm
Join us for a Preschool and Kindergarten open house! Meet our teachers, do a craft, have a treat, and join in a fun dance demonstration! Pre register for a free bag at www.starpathdance.com/sparkleday
NC Raga Revival – The Forum by Taurya (Morrisville)
Saturday September 13 | 4:00pm-6:30pm
NC Raga Revival is a monthly concert series showcasing the music and dance of the Indian diaspora and collaborations with other world music artists.
Suggested Donation- $20 per person. However, no contribution is too large or small. This event is cash only. Please rsvp at [email protected]
Waverly Place Pop-Up – Waverly Place (Cary)
Saturday September 13 | 4:00pm-9:00pm
Come shop & support amazing local vendors while enjoying a fun, family- and dog-friendly day out! Why you should come:
FREE entry
Live music!
Live painting!
Kid-friendly with a playground
Dog-friendly—bring your pup!
Near great restaurants
Plenty of FREE parking
Tag your shopping besties, bring the fam, and get ready for a fun-filled market day!
Night Crawl Food Truck Rodeo – 4204 Willow Oak (Raleigh)
Saturday September 13 | 5:00pm-11:00pm
Enjoy a night full of top food trucks, amazing vendors, live music, bouncy houses, and family-friendly fun! 🎶🍔🎡
“The Gift” Puppet Stage Play – Forest Theatre (Chapel Hill)
Saturday September 13 | 6:15pm-8:30pm
Every year we perform our annual pageant at the Forest Theatre in Chapel Hill, NC on UNC’s campus. This season will be performed from August 15 – September 28. Shows are held on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. Shows start at 7pm with an opener going on at 6:20pm.
Press Play Music Series Featuring Beatlesque – Holly Springs Cultural Center (Holly Springs)
Saturday September 13 | 7:30pm
Beatlesque is a four-piece Beatles tribute band based in Raleigh, NC. The band strives to replicate the sound and look of The Beatles to the closest detail while performing music from the entire Beatles catalog. In costume and in character, the fab four members of Beatlesque enjoy the challenge and the thrill of recreating the music that we all know and love.
Video Games Live: NC Symphony – Martin Marietta Center (Raleigh)
Saturday September 13 | 7:30pm
Video Games Live™ is an award-winning immersive concert featuring music from the most popular video games of all time, including music from Final Fantasy, Halo, Warcraft, Skyrim, Kingdom Hearts, Metal Gear Solid, Chrono Trigger and Chrono Cross, The Last of Us, Undertale, Shadow of the Colossus, Mass Effect, Castlevania, Okami, and more—all accompanied by your North Carolina Symphony.
Movies with Goats – Spring Haven Farm (Chapel Hill)
Saturdays May-September | 8:00pm-11:00pm
Goat Snuggles + Outdoor Movies Under the Stars = The Perfect Summer Night
Plenty of memories to be made with goats adding to the fun and antics – roaming around looking for goodies, snuggles, and head scratches throughout the entire movie.
Movies on the Green: The Greatest Showman – Southern Village Green (Chapel Hill)
Saturday September 13 | 8:45pm-10:30pm
Sunday September 14
Neighbor Boy Fall Fest – Neighbor Boy Farm (Apex)
Sunday September 14 | 8:00am-3:00pm
There’s no better way to welcome fall than a day full of simple, old-fashioned fun. Bring the family out for a farm scavenger hunt, mums and pumpkins galore, and fresh fall veggies. Ice cream, lemonade, and snacks. Pumpkin painting available Saturday. Slow down, soak up the season, and make memories.
Traffic Garden – Gipson Play Plaza at Dix Park (Raleigh)
Sunday September 14 | 9:00am-7:00pm
Come learn about bike, road, and pedestrian safety! Dix Park teamed up with Oaks and Spokes to bring a Traffic Garden to life at the Gipson Play Plaza — a mini, kid-sized street network designed for fun and learning.
Kids can explore a colorful world of small streets, intersections, stop signs, and bike lanes, all built just for them! The Traffic Garden is open for self-guided play, giving families the chance to practice safe walking, biking, and rolling skills in a low-stress, imaginative environment.
Bring your bike, scooter, or walking shoes and enjoy this unique, pop-up play space! Free and open to the public. Perfect for kids ages 3–10 (and kids at heart)!
Lakeside Retreats Family Campout – Lakeside Retreats (Raleigh)
Sunday September 14 | 10:00am
Our Second Annual Family Campout is Coming — and YOU make it magical!
Think: outdoor retreat sprinkled with festival fun. This is more than a Campout — it’s a celebration of community, connection, creativity, exploration, and good old-fashioned unplugged fun! This is a FREE ticketed event, each family member needs a ticket 🎟️ Bring your own tent and Campout for the weekend or upgrade your experience to a Glamping set up or Yurt.
We’re gathering under the open sky for a weekend full of:
* Face painting
* Bounce house fun
* Epic fire show – Nordic PyroTechnics
* Featured speaker- Family Connection workshop – Jen Shepard
* Flow arts workshop
* Art tent for endless creation
* Tie dye, hug shirts
* Family games like tug-of-war and potato sack races
* Karaoke, yoga, sound bath, breathwork, drum circle, forest bathing, and s’mores!
We’ll do all this and more— grounding ourselves in nature and each other. Join us in creating something meaningful together.
Dueling Dinosaurs Sensory Friendly Mornings – Nature Research Center (Raleigh)
Sunday September 14 | 10:00am-12:00pm
Explore the Dueling Dinosaurs exhibit (https://duelingdinosaurs.org/) with reduced noise effects and smaller crowds. Please bring any noise-reducing headphones and fidgets you may need! A limited number of Sensory Friendly Bags are available for checkout at the front desk, and a limited number of noise-reducing headphones are available to borrow at the exhibit. Free registration is not necessary but encouraged; if you register, we’ll send reminder emails and resources about the exhibit so you can know before you go!
Please note that this is a self-guided tour of the exhibit space (not led by a museum educator), though you may interact with the research team in the SECU DinoLab!
NC Collector’s Roadshow: Sports Cards & Pokémon Show – State Fairgrounds (Raleigh)
Sunday September 14 | 10:00am-3:00pm
Join us for the largest collection of sports cards, Pokémon, and other collectibles in the triangle with dealers from all over the southeast. Search through over 350 tables and find the missing piece to your collection! Cash prizes will be given away each hour, and a food truck will be on site each day. Kids 10 and under free.
Mad Libs® Live! – Cantey V. Sutton Theatre (Raleigh)
Sunday September 14 | 10:30am AND 3:00pm
Get ready to laugh, sing, and fill in the blanks! Mad Libs Live! is a high-energy musical where YOU help create the show. Four quirky teens are competing on the hit TV show Teen Superstars – but just before they go on, they discover some of their songs are missing words! That’s where the audience comes in. You’ll suggest a variety of nouns, verbs, and adjectives, and the cast will perform a one-of-a-kind version of the show based on your answers. Every performance is totally different – and totally hilarious!
Under the Tree Storytime – Quail Ridge Books (Raleigh)
Every Sunday | 10:30am-11:00am
Every Saturday, Sunday, and Monday morning, join our children’s booksellers as they read their favorite picture books. We’ll explore faraway places and visit cozy, comfortable spots. We’ll go back in time, visit the future, and celebrate the present through new books and beloved classics. These are fun for all ages! Duration: 30 minutes. Note: Please plan to stay with your child. Park strollers outside of the store so that we’ll have room for all!
“Open Studio” Painting Class – Cheers N Paint (Cary)
Sunday September 14 | 11:00am-1:00pm
Open Studio is an in person, in-studio paint class, great for all ages. Pick your favorite canvas from our art gallery and paint with limited instruction. All art materials are included: canvas, paint, brushes. No experience necessary.
Backyard Art Party at the Fenton Art Festival – Fenton (Cary)
Sunday September 14 | 11:00am-3:00pm
The Fenton Art Festival is a fine arts market featuring artists selling original art, including works in oils, watercolors, and acrylics, mixed media, illustrations, prints, sculpture and more. Enjoy workshops, demonstrations, and opportunities to make public art in one of the Triangle’s premier destinations.
Backyard Art Party: Sign up for one of 6 different class sessions being taught at the Festival. These are specifically geared towards school-aged children (3-15).
Pet-Palooza – Cobblestone Village (Rolesville)
Sunday September 14 | 12:00pm-4:00pm
We are getting closer and closer to our amazing Pet-Palooza event! Sunday, Sept 14 at Cobblestone Village we are hosting a pet-centric event with some amazing vendors! You will find some pet specific vendors alongside some other makers and businesses! There is something for everyone (and every pet) at this event! The best part? We have partnered up with @freedomride.rescue who will have a tent at the event with pups for adoption! 🤩🐶🐾
The Bazaar – Carrboro Town Commons (Carrboro)
Sunday September 14 | 12:00pm-5:00pm
Mark your calendars for the 2025 Bazaar in Carrboro! Shop handmade creations from 30+ talented local makers, enjoy awesome eats and drinks from Ta Contento, 50 Kitchen, Safari Eatz, Churro Boys, and Carrboro Coffee Roasters. Get fancy with body art and fairy hair from Sparkle Body Arts, and hoop your heart out on the Commons green. The Bazaar is family-friendly (leashed dogs welcome) and free, and it’s all happening on the Carrboro Town Commons at 301 W. Main St. from 12-5 P.M. on Sundays March 30th, April 13th, May 11th, Sept 14th, Oct 12th, and Nov 9th!
Triangle VegFest – Durham Central Park (Durham)
Sunday September 14 | 12:00pm-5:00pm
Why Should You Come?
–If you’re curious about a plant-based diet
–You’re a foodie craving what’s fresh & new
–It’s a fun & family friendly thing to do
–You want to be more health-conscious & fit
–To help support our community
–You want to help the animals
–Support small businesses
–You Care About The Planet
–You’re interested in new vendors
–Live DJ & Vegan beer
PepperFest – The Plant (Pittsboro)
Sunday September 14 | 12:00pm-6:00pm
PepperFest is a celebration of sustainable agriculture, local farmers, and the creativity of the Piedmont’s top chefs, brewers and artisans! Plus live music! Fun for the whole family!
Kiran Bazaar – HSNC Main Hall (Morrisville)
Sunday September 14 | 12:00pm-7:00pm
Kiran Bazaar returns on SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 14TH this year! Join us at the HSNC Main Hall for a spectacular day full of fun, shopping, raffles, and food! The Bazaar is free, open to all, and we can’t wait to see you there! There are a few vendor spots left so if you’re interesting being a vendor at this year’s Bazaar, please email [email protected] See you there!
Storytime with Stella – Esteamed Coffee (Cary)
Sunday September 14 | 1:00pm
@esteamedcoffee is partnering with Priorities ABA to bring you a special Sunday storytime series centered around “Stella Finds Her Place,” a heartfelt story ❤️ about finding where you belong. Families 👨👩👧👦 are invited to gather each week from Sep. 7 to Oct. 19📆 for an afternoon of connection, community, and kindness.
Thomas & his Friends in the Garden Ride – North Carolina Railway Museum (New Hill)
Sunday September 14 | 1:00pm AND 2:30pm
Create lasting memories at Thomas and His Friends in the Garden Days Sat., September 13, and Sun., September 14. Come see familiar favorites Thomas, Percy, James, and other characters operate over 1,000 feet of G scale track. Kids also have the chance to take the controls on a kid-friendly miniature track. Plus, ride in excursion cars pulled by a full-sized locomotive and enjoy treats on Saturday from @willandpopsfoodtruck and @yoyo_froyo_frozen_yogurt.
Beauty and the Beast: The Musical – DPAC (Durham)
Sunday September 14 | 1:00pm AND 6:30pm
Be Our Guest at BEAUTY AND THE BEAST, Disney’s first North American touring production of the beloved musical in over 25 years. This enchanting and timeless tale, filled with the romance and grandeur audiences know and love, has been brought to life like never before, with spectacular new sets and dazzling costumes. The show boasts the Oscar®-winning and Tony Award®-nominated score, including the classic songs “Be Our Guest” and “Beauty and the Beast.” Disney recommends its productions for ages 6 and up.
Family Open Art Studio – Nasher Museum of Art (Durham)
Sunday September 14 | 1:00pm-3:00pm
Come and enjoy an open studio session with your family and friends! Unleash your creativity and create a unique piece in our Community Classroom, which is stocked with a variety of art supplies and materials, all for you to experiment and play with.
“Minions” Skate Party – United Skates of America (Raleigh)
Sunday September 14 | 1:00pm-3:30pm
Grand Reopening Sunday at the Family Fun Park – Phillips Farms (Cary)
Sunday September 14 | 1:00pm-6:00pm
Explore the fun park, rides and petting zoo, enjoy live music, and delicious bites from our concessions stand and brand new pizza barn! Visit us online at phillipsfarmsofcary.com for all that’s included in admission.
Artspace Open Studio – Artspace (Raleigh)
Sunday September 14 | 1:30pm
Let your imagination soar in Artspace’s Open Studio and enjoy a self-guided art making activity for all ages. Every month there will be a new, beginner-level art making activity to experience, based on one of the current exhibitions at Artspace! Registration is required for children and adults.
Mommy & Me “Dinosaur Love” Painting Class – Wine & Design (Raleigh)
Sunday September 14 | 1:30pm-3:30pm
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW LOCATION! Grab your kiddo and get your art buzz on with our Art Buzz Kids Mommy & Me event! No artistic talent needed, just the desire to have fun! We take the time to guide you step by step to complete your very own artwork. You will both paint your own canvas but when you hold them together, it becomes one big masterpiece!
“The Sound of Music” Stage Play – Center Theater Company (Carrboro)
Sunday September 14 | 2:00pm AND 6:00pm
Center Theater Company, a nonprofit community theater organization, is pleased to announce its upcoming production of The Sound of Music, opening on September 12 at Center Theater Company in Carrboro. Directed by beloved local director Tracy Bersley, this iconic musical, based on the true story of the von Trapp family, promises to captivate audiences with its unforgettable songs and moving story. The Sound of Music tells the heartwarming tale of Maria, a young aspiring nun who is sent to be the governess for a widowed naval captain’s seven children. As Maria and the children form an unlikely bond, they must navigate both the beauty of family and the shadows of political upheaval as World War II looms.
Durham Warehouse District Treasure Hunt – Crank Arm Brewing (Durham)
Sunday September 14 | 2:00pm-3:00pm
Guests will meet at Crank Arm Brewing Durham (620 Fernway Ave.) and then depart with their treasure map on a walking team scavenger hunt through the Warehouse District where they will use their minds and feet to follow clues, solve puzzles, and crack codes to find and unlock the treasure chest! Children under 10 years old are welcome to participate for free with the purchase of an Adult ticket.
“Magic is Opossum-able” Painting Class – Pinot’s Palette (Raleigh)
Sunday September 14 | 2:00pm-4:00pm
At Pinot’s Palette be prepared to listen to music, laugh and let go of stress. Bring a guest or come alone, either way you will have a great experience. No artistic talent needed, we guide you step by step to complete your masterpiece.
“The Gift” Puppet Stage Play – Forest Theatre (Chapel Hill)
Sunday September 14 | 2:20pm AND 6:15pm
Every year we perform our annual pageant at the Forest Theatre in Chapel Hill, NC on UNC’s campus. This season will be performed from August 15 – September 28. Shows are held on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. Shows start at 7pm with an opener going on at 6:20pm.
Laurie Berkner Live – Koka Booth Amphitheatre (Cary)
Sunday September 14 | 3:00pm
Pack your picnics and get ready to sing and dance with the “queen of kids music” at Laurie’s “Greatest Hits” solo show. You’ll hear songs like “Bumblebee (Buzz Buzz),” “The Goldfish (Let’s Go Swimming),” “We Are The Dinosaurs,” and “Rocketship Run,” as well as newer hits like “Waiting for the Elevator,” “My Bunny Goes Hop,” and “Chipmunk at the Gas Pump,” plus – as a special treat for fans – a few well-loved Laurie Berkner songs that are not often heard at Laurie’s full-band concerts! Kids should plan to bring their dancing shoes and a stuffed animal (for their heads). Show runs approximately 60 – 75 minutes.
Grown Up and Me Yoga Class – Wild at Art Kids (Raleigh)
Sunday September 14 | 3:00pm-4:00pm
Build connection and play together. Each week we’ll have a fun theme to explore during this 1-hour class. The class will incorporate gentle movement, experiment with balance, activities, breath work, plus enjoy a mindful craft. This playful yet grounding practice fosters connection, self-awareness, and joy, offering a meaningful way to bond, relax, and grow together. This class is designed for 3-10 year olds with an adult, however, older siblings can attend as it is fun for all ages. If you have yoga mats, please bring them to class. Limited mats are available.
Silent Disco – Amberly Local (Cary)
Sunday September 14 | 4:00pm-6:00pm
Join us for a family-friendly Silent Disco benefitting the Taylor Anne Foundation to raise money for pediatric cancer research! We have different playlists with music ranging from Disney to T. Swift to BSB and so much more! There will be zero music played over head. Instead each person will have their own headphones and can dance to their own beat! Tickets will likely sell out so grab your friends and family and join us for a fun afternoon of making memories for a great cause.
Concert at the Crossroads: The Embers – Flowers Plantation (Clayton)
Sunday September 14 | 4:00pm-7:00pm
Join us September 14th for our next Concert at the Crossroads. Free to attend! We invite neighbors to join us for a fun, family-friendly summer night. Food, beer & wine available for purchase. Bring your family & your lawn chairs!
Summer Concert Series: Blue Note – Fred Fletcher Park (Raleigh)
Sunday September 14 | 5:00pm-7:00pm
Know Before You Go:
–It may be canceled for inclement weather. For updates, contact 919-996-6468
–Please bring your own blanket or chair
–Performers may change without notice
–Concerts are free, but tips are encouraged
–At Fletcher Park, please bring your own food and beverages
Concert in the Park featuring The Phoebes – Joyner Park Amphitheater (Wake Forest)
Sunday September 14 | 5:30pm-7:30pm
Bring your family and friends, a picnic and a blanket and settle in for some foot-tapping, finger-snapping good times! ARTS Wake Forest and the Parks, Recreation & Cultural Resources Department will present free concerts at E. Carroll Joyner Park on Sunday, Sept. 7, and Sunday, Sept. 14. Both performances will get underway at 5:30 p.m. in the Joyner Park Amphitheater – situated adjacent to the shade provided by the majestic pecan grove. Food and refreshments will be available for purchase or bring your own picnic.