Editor-in-Chief at Raleigh Family Adventure

Amy Hartle is the enthusiastic force behind Raleigh Family Adventure as its Editor-in-Chief and founder. She resides in the North Carolina Triangle area with her husband and their adventurous toddler. Amy has worked as a content creator since 2012, specializing in travel and lifestyle. On this site, Amy marries her expertise with her passion to bring Raleigh parents the best in local family fun.

Family Friendly Weekend in the Triangle – January 17th, 18th, and 19th, 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:

Friday January 17th

Preschool Open Play – JPCC Dance Studio (Wake Forest)

Friday January 17th | 8:00am-4:00pm

Ages 1-5.

Open Play Nest Session – The Nest at Kidzu Children’s Museum (Chapel Hill)

Friday January 17th | 8:30am, 11:00am, AND 3:30pm

The Nest is Kidzu’s learning environment for children 0-5 years, and their caregivers. Come anytime within the 2 hour window and enjoy child-directed play, collaborative art projects, and STEM activities with your child. Story time will happen twice during the session.

Mini Mites Open Gym – Peak Gymnastics (Apex)

Fridays | 10:00am-11:00am

18mos-3yrs, $5

Jumperoo – Urban Air (Raleigh)

Fridays | 10:00am-12:00pm

Join us for a fun-filled day at the park! We’ll be open for little ones (ages 5 and under) every Friday.

Storytime & Crafts | Sweater Weather – Joyner Park Community Center (Wake Forest)

Friday January 17th | 10:15am-11:00am

Parents everywhere, bring your kids out for a good book and some arts and crafts at Joyner Park Community Center. FUN and CREATIVITIY are the goals. Each session is a themed program, filled with a story, arts and crafts, and all-around fun! Sign your little one up today and don’t miss out!

Jumperoo – Urban Air (Morrisville)

Fridays | 11:00am-1:00pm

Join us for a fun-filled day at the park! We’ll be open for little ones (ages 5 and under) every Friday 11 AM to 1 PM.

Family Fun Day – Sky Zone (Durham)

Friday January 17th | 12:00pm-10:00pm

A deal the whole family will love!
Save over $40! Family Fun 4-Pack : Just $15 Jump/person
Plus FREE PIZZA

Fenton Skate the Square – Fenton (Cary)

Friday January 17th | 3:00pm-10:00pm

This pop up ice skating rink appears each November in Cary’s Fenton shopping center. Skate under the glow of beautiful holiday lights.

The RINK at Red Hat Amphitheatre (Raleigh)

Friday January 17th | 5:00pm AND 7:30pm

The RINK at Red Hat is an incredible festive experience. In addition to skating on the ice, guests will enjoy fire pits and Cozy Stations, a 20-foot decorated tree, a snack bar, giant Jenga, and more. Skating sessions are 2 hours long.

Food Truck Friday – The Glass Jug Beer Lab RTP (Durham)

Fridays 5:00pm-8:00pm

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!

Crepe Craze: Sweet and Savory Crepes – Flour Power Falls River (Raleigh)

Friday January 17 | 5:00pm-6:30pm

Get ready to flip, fill, and have a blast! We’ll whisk up the magic as you learn to make crepes from scratch, perfect for every sweet tooth and savory snacker. It’s the perfect recipe for family fun—so grab your aprons, bring your smiles, and let’s get cooking!

Friday Night Fun: Half Price Paint Time – Color Me Mine (Cary)

Friday January 17 | 5:00pm-8:00pm

Join the painting FUN at our Friday Night FUN! RSVP so we can reserve your table. SPECIAL RATE: $5.00 Studio Fee! Save $5.00 per painter. Paint your ceramic piece from our selection of over 300 unique choices!

Kids Bingo – NoRa Cafe (Raleigh)

Friday January 17 | 5:30pm-7:30pm

Kids Night Out – Museum of Life and Science (Durham)

Friday January 17 | 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. Ages 5 – 10 (must be potty-trained).

Glow Night – Urban Air (Raleigh)

Every Friday | 6:00pm

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.

Canes Country Kids’ Night Out – Flour Power (Holly Springs)

Friday January 17th | 6:00pm-8:00pm

Skate on over to Flour Power and let’s celebrate the hockey favorites with amazing recipes sure to score a goal with you and your family. We’ll whip up some Pretzel Hot Dogs, Stadium Nachos and some amazingly delicious Hockey Pucks. Hurry and register so you don’t miss out on this fun event! Ages 5-12.

Parents’ Night Out – The Nest at Kidzu Children’s Museum (Chapel Hill)

Friday January 17th | 6:00pm-9:00pm

Parents, you deserve a night out! Leave the childcare to us! Kids will enjoy a fun–filled night, including exhibit play & exploration, a staff led activity, and dinner from Alfredo’s Pizza Villa. This drop-off event is currently for children ages 3 – 9 (must be potty independent) from 6:00 – 9:00pm on select Fridays and Saturdays each month. Kids will exercise their minds, bodies, imagination, and independence. $30 per child. Add early drop-off at 5:30pm, for only $5 more per child. Advanced registration is required.

Parents Night Out – Triangle Rock Club (Morrisville)

Friday January 17th | 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!

Parents Night Out – Triangle Rock Club (Durham)

Friday January 17th | 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!

Parents Night Out – Triangle Rock Club (Raleigh)

Friday January 17th | 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!

Parents Night out – Embrace Martial Arts (Wake Forest)

Friday January 17th | 6:30pm-9:00pm

Take a break while your kids enjoy an evening packed with fun at Embrace Kids Club! 🥳 Let us handle the fun so you can enjoy some well-deserved downtime.

Vegas Golden Knights vs. Carolina Hurricanes – Lenovo Center (Raleigh)

Friday January 17th | 7:00pm

Po’ Ramblin’ Boys Concert – Martin Marietta Center (Raleigh)

Friday January 17th | 7:30pm

Entertaining and engaging, the Po’ Ramblin’ Boys put on a high-energy show beloved by audiences across generations. Formed over a decade ago at a distillery on the Tennessee side of the Smoky Mountains, the Po’ Ramblin’ Boys have spread their brand of bluegrass far and wide – to festivals across the country, European venues, and recently on the Grand Ole Opry stage. Their music is rooted in reverence for and deep knowledge of bluegrass and country music traditions, but their songwriting speaks to modern times.

Saturday January 18th

🥕Eno River Farmers Market – 144 E Margaret Ln (Hillsborough)

Saturdays Year Round | 8:00am-12:00pm

Open Play Nest Session – The Nest at Kidzu Children’s Museum (Chapel Hill)

Saturday January 18th | 8:30am AND 11:00am

The Nest is Kidzu’s learning environment for children 0-5 years, and their caregivers. Come anytime within the 2 hour window and enjoy child-directed play, collaborative art projects, and STEM activities with your child. Story time will happen twice during the session.

Short Stack Cooking Class – Flour Power (Holly Springs)

Saturday January 18th | 9:00am-10:00am

We’ll create mini short stacks today as we sizzle up pancake griddle magic with our famous buttermilk pancake recipe and we’ll whip up some magical homemade butter! Ages 3-4.5.

🥕Durham Farmers Market – The Pavilion at Durham Central Park (Durham)

Every Saturday | 9:00am-12:00pm

🥕Cary Downtown Farmer’s Market (Cary)

Every Saturday | 9:00am-12:00pm (winter hours)

🥕Chapel Hill Farmers Market – University Place (Chapel Hill)

Every Saturday | 9:00am-12:00pm

🥕South Durham Farmers Market – Hub RTP (Durham)

Every Saturday | 9:00am-12:00pm (winter hours)

🥕Apex Farmers Market – The Depot (Apex)

Every Saturday | 9:00am-12:00pm (winter hours)

🥕Carrboro Farmer’s Market – Town Commons (Carrboro)

Every Saturday | 9:00am-12:00pm (winter hours)

Holly Springs Farmers Market – W. Ballentine Street (Holly Springs)

Every Saturday | 9:00am-12:00pm (winter hours)

The Raleigh Market – State Fairgrounds (Raleigh)

Weekends | 9:00am-4:00pm (winter hours)

Vintage, collectible, antique, handcrafted, home grown, new, used, local, uncommon, bizarre–you’ll find it here! For more than 50 years, the flea market at the State Fairgrounds has offered one of the most unique and entertaining shopping experiences in the state.

🥕Western Wake Farmers Market – Town Hall Drive (Morrisville)

Every Saturday | 9:30am-12:00pm

Eno River Farmers Market – Downtown (Hillsborough)

Every Saturday | 10:00am-12:00pm (winter 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 | 10:00am-12:00pm (winter hours)

MLK Children’s Program: “Tellebration” – Page-Walker Arts & History Center (Cary)

Saturday January 18th | 10:00am-12:00pm

Celebrate the legacy of Dr. King at the annual “Tellebration” Children’s Program! This vibrant event promises a day full of engaging arts and crafts, along with captivating live storytelling. Join us as we honor Dr. King’s values through creativity and imagination, making it a memorable experience for children and families alike. Don’t miss out on this wonderful celebration!

Saturdays at the Farm – Sunrise Farm Community Center (Chapel Hill)

Saturdays | 10:00am-5:00pm

Join us for Open Farm any Saturday throughout the year. 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. Pony rides also available for an additional fee.

Fenton Skate the Square – Fenton (Cary)

Saturday January 18th | 10:00am-10:00pm

This pop up ice skating rink appears each November in Cary’s Fenton shopping center. Skate under the glow of beautiful holiday lights.

Kidz Bop Skate – United Skates of America (Raleigh)

Saturday January 18th | 10:00am-12:30pm

Kidz Bop and Disney Super Clean music

Guest Stars: Paperhand Puppet Intervention – Marbles Kids Museum (Raleigh)

Saturday January 18 | 10:00am-12:00pm

Witness the wild with Paperhand Puppet Intervention. Enjoy performances at 10 & 11:30am in Curiosity Square. Included with museum admission.

Baby Time Meet-up – Marbles Kids Museum (Raleigh)

Saturday January 18th | 10:00am

Sing, move and play with your little one while you enjoy conversations and make connections with other grown-ups. Baby Time Meet-up is for babies 18 months and younger and their grown-ups. Included with museum admission.

Kids Paint Class: Otter Floating in the Water – Cheers N Paint (Cary)

Saturday January 18th | 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. In this painting they will draw an otter floating in teal, blue water.

Bunny Cuddles – Breadbox Farm (Chapel Hill)

Saturdays | 10:30am and 12:00pm

Nothing is sweeter than holding a tiny bunny on your lap or against your chest. Take some self care time and make memories with your loved ones while connecting to nature in our peaceful garden space.

Storytime with Ms. Kat – Monkeykat Books (Sanford)

Saturdays | 10:30am

Storytime – Page 158 Books (Wake Forest)

Saturdays | 11:00am

Parents and Kids Day – The Gathering Place (Chapel Hill)

Every Saturday | 11:00am-2:00pm

Every Saturday morning at 11am, watch your kids socialize with their peers as they learn how to play games such as Dungeons & Dragons, Pokemon and Magic the Gathering while also earning free promos and prize support!

Art Buzz Kids: Winter Bee – Wine & Design (Apex)

Saturday January 18th | 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!

Mermazing: Fun for all Ages! – Wine & Design (Chapel Hill)

Saturday January 18th | 11:00am-12:30pm

This is an IN-STUDIO class taught step-by-step for kids creating the painting shown on the calendar. Perfect for kids ages 5-13. All children must be accompanied by an adult. All studio guests must have a paid seat. Guests are welcome to bring their own snacks and drinks.

Early Learners Playtime – Marbles Kids Museum (Raleigh)

Saturday January 18th | 11:00am

Join other young children and their grown-ups to spark curiosity, engage in early learning activities and encourage social connections. Each session includes art, literacy, music, sensory experiences, STEM learning and imaginary play. Included with museum admission.

Catpuchino: Painting Fun for All Ages – Pinot’s Palette (Raleigh)

Saturday January 18th | 11:00am-1:00pm

Come paint catpuchino. So easy to customize to your own cat and favorite coffee drink. 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. Our studio has a bar with beer, wine and cider available for purchase. We do not allow outside alcohol. Feel free to bring snacks.

Lunar New Year Family Day – Artspace (Raleigh)

Saturday January 18th | 11:00am-3:00pm

Bring the whole family to celebrate Lunar New Year with Artspace, Formosa Association of Student Cultural Ambasadors, and the Raleigh Chinese Language School. Join us an art-filled day feauturing exhibitions by local artists, art making activities, hands-on artist demos, and cultural performances. Meet and shop with our 30+ studio artists while enjoying free refreshments. There is no admission but registration helps us anticipate attendance and donations are welcome.

Beyblade Tournament – W.D. Hill Recreation Center (Durham)

Saturday January 18th | 12:00pm-2:00pm

Beyblade is a line of spinning-top toys. Do you want to show off your Beyblade skills in a fun environment? Join us for a Beyblade Tournament at W.D. Hill Recreation Center. Please bring your own Beyblade. Pre-registration is required. Ages 5-12. No Cost.

Frosty Festivities: Farm Tour, Open Play and Optional Gem Mining – The Feathered Farm (Zebulon)

Saturday January 18th | 12:00pm-4:30pm

Get ready for a winter adventure at Open Play at the Farm’s Frosty Festivities! Bundle up and join us for a day of frosty fun, featuring animal encounters with friendly farm animals like Gus the Shetland pony, cuddles with baby goats and bunnies at the Frosty Snuggle Station, and creative activities in the Winter Craft Corner where you can make keepsakes or try your hand at gem mining. Enjoy the festive spirit with family-friendly amenities like stroller access, picnic areas, and hot cocoa, all backed by a flexible refund policy. Purchase your tickets in advance, lace up your boots, and prepare for a winter wonderland you’ll never forget!

Carrboro Event Honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. – Century Center (Carrboro)

Saturday January 18th | 1:00pm

Join us on Jan. 18, 2025 for a youth-led event that brings the community together to celebrate the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The event will begin at 1 p.m. in Century Hall located at the Carrboro Century Center, 100 N. Greensboro St. Carrboro, NC 27510.

The RINK at Red Hat Amphitheatre (Raleigh)

Saturday January 18th | 1:30pm, 4:00pm, AND 6:30pm

The RINK at Red Hat is an incredible festive experience. In addition to skating on the ice, guests will enjoy fire pits and Cozy Stations, a 20-foot decorated tree, a snack bar, giant Jenga, and more. Skating sessions are 2 hours long.

Winter Wonder-lab: Painting Fun for All Ages – Pinot’s Palette (Raleigh)

Saturday January 18th | 3:00pm-5:00pm

Welcome the winter chill with this adorable winter puppy! Great for adults and kids alike. 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.

Christmas Tree Burning Party – Steel Tring Brewery at Pluck Farm (Mebane)

Saturday January 18th | 4:00pm-7:30pm

Fire pits and heaters will be on all day. S’mores, hot chocolate, spiced hot cider, tea and plenty of non-alcoholic options available in addition to wine, cider, kombucha, and of course, beers brewed on site from the bar. At 4pm we’ll set the pile of recycled Christmas trees a blaze and continue adding trees to the flames until we run out.

NC Eat and Play’s S’mores & Hot Chocolate Festival – Durham Bulls Athletic Park (Durham)

Saturday January 18th | 4:30pm-7:30pm

Kick off a new year with a warm winter celebration at @durhambulls Athletic Park featuring NC Eat and Play’s wonderland of fun, food, chocolate creations, and more! Complimentary s’mores and hot chocolate (while supplies last).

Kids’ Line Dance Hour – American Legion (Fuquay-Varina)

Saturday January 18th | 5:00pm-6:00pm

Join 8 Count Country for our very first Kids’ Line Dance Event! Bring your little ones in their cowboy boots and hats to the American Legion for an exciting hour of dancing fun with Melody and Doug. We’ll be teaching beginner-friendly, modified line dances tailored just for kids! This is a family-friendly event where parents are required to stay—whether you’d like to relax and watch or jump in and dance alongside your child.

The American Legion bar will be open for adults to order beverages and enjoy the hour. This event is recommended for children between the ages of 8-15. Kids cannot be dropped off. A parent must be present at all times.

Saturday Starlight S’mores – Spring Haven Farm (Chapel Hill)

Saturday January 18th | 5:00pm-8:00pm

Beneath a canopy of stars, experience the farm’s serene ambiance as the fire crackles and music plays to add to the relaxed, magical atmosphere. Adding to the fun, a few of our baby goats will be roaming the grounds, ready to mingle and bring smiles to your evening. Your ticket includes:
A s’mores kit to roast marshmallows over our crackling fire pits.
A warm cup of hot chocolate or spiced apple cider to sip while you soak in the farm’s unique charm. Kids 3 and under free!

Parents’ Night Out – Rock Solid Warrior (Fuquay-Varina)

Saturday January 18th | 5:30pm-9pm

Drop off your kids for a night of ninja, pizza, fruit, chips, and dessert! We’ll play some ninja games, group games, and have a blast! Kids ages 5-12 allowed for the event. Sibling discounts available! Buy the passes for the siblings first before signing them up to get the full sibling discount! We usually fill up, so don’t wait to snag your spot! NOTE: Drop-off not available before 5:30pm!

Sunday January 19th

Fenton Skate the Square – Fenton (Cary)

Sunday January 19th | 11:00am-8:00pm

This pop up ice skating rink appears each November in Cary’s Fenton shopping center. Skate under the glow of beautiful holiday lights.

Guest Star: Black Box Dance Theatre (Raleigh)

Sunday January 19th | 11:30am-12:30pm

Black Box Dance Theatre includes themes ranging from pure athleticism, to collaborations resulting in wildly innovative dances, to the celebration of cultural holidays. Participants will learn about the history of modern dance, quality in movement, and dance as a form of language. Once the process of making a dance has been “de-mystified”, the door is open for everyone to develop their unique ideas and creatively respond to the show. Included with museum admission.

The RINK at Red Hat Amphitheatre (Raleigh)

Sunday January 19th | 12:00pm, 2:30pm, 5:00pm

The RINK at Red Hat is an incredible festive experience. In addition to skating on the ice, guests will enjoy fire pits and Cozy Stations, a 20-foot decorated tree, a snack bar, giant Jenga, and more. Skating sessions are 2 hours long.

Retro Sunday Skate – United Skates of America (Raleigh)

Sunday January 19th | 4:00pm-6:30pm

Glow in the dark retro roller skate event!