13th Annual Mill as Muse Community Art & Photography Contest - Historic Yates Mill Park (Raleigh, NC)
February 1 - 10, 2019
Share your artistic creations by entering the park’s annual community art and photography contests. Contest rules will be posted in January 2019. The contests include youth and adult categories with mill, nature, and people in the park as subjects. Contest Entries due: Between Friday, February 1, starting at 8:30 a.m. and Sunday, February 10, before 5 p.m.

Garner Groundhog Day Celebration - White Deer Park (Garner, NC)
February 2, 2019 10am - 12:30pm
This fun, educational event offers crafts, games, live animals and Snerd the Groundhog's official prediction for spring. Take your camera for pictures with Snerd, McGruff the Crime Dog and other mascots.

Groundhog Day - Museum of Natural Sciences (Raleigh, NC)
February 2, 2019 9am - 4pm
Meet Sir Walter Wally the groundhog and get his prognostication for the next six weeks. The Shadow Ceremony takes place at noon on the Bicentennial Plaza in front of the Museum. See whether Wally can continue his climb up the Weather Channel’s prestigious list of top “Groundhogs to Watch”!

Cirque de Soleil Presents "Corteo" - PNC Arena (Raleigh, NC)
February 7 - 10, 2019
Corteo, which means cortege in Italian, is a joyous procession, a festive parade imagined by a clown. The show brings together the passion of the actor with the grace and power of the acrobat to plunge the audience into a theatrical world of fun, comedy and spontaneity situated in a mysterious space between heaven and earth. Purchase tickets online.

Marbles Family Heart Hop (Raleigh, NC) 
February 9, 2019 6pm - 8:30pm
Dance the night away in your festive best at the museum’s family Valentine’s Day party. Practice new dance steps, make your own corsage, test your fitness level, make special cards, enjoy sweet treats and drinks, and play in the exhibits. Purchase tickets online.

Disney's DCappella  -  Durham Performing Arts Center (Durham, NC) 
February 9, 2019
DCappella, Disney Music Group's new a cappella group featuring 7 world class vocalists appeals to fans of both Disney and a cappella with their modern a cappella versions of Disney hits. Known for their reimagined classics from the Disney songbook and beyond, the seven dynamic voices that make up DCappella represent a first for Disney.

NC Theatre Presents "Mamma Mia" -  Raleigh Memorial Auditorium (Raleigh, NC) 
February 12 - 17, 2019
The ultimate feel-good show! A mother. A daughter. Three possible dads. And a trip down the aisle you'll never forget! The story-telling magic of ABBA's timeless songs propels this enchanting tale of love, laughter and friendship, creating an unforgettable show. A large cast, non-stop laughs and explosive dance numbers combine to make a guaranteed smash. Featuring hits “Dancing Queen,” “Gimme! Gimme! Gimme!,” Take a Chance on Me” and many more!

World's Toughest Rodeo -  PNC Arena (Raleigh, NC) 
February 23, 2019
The event features Bareback Riding, Saddle Bronc Riding, Bull Riding and Barrel Racing as well as the “Main Event”, Showdown Round with a head to head match up of the top two in each event.  It is unique combination of family entertainment and fast-paced professional rodeo action and a winner is crowned each performance… the ultimate fan experience.

The Wild Kratts LIVE! -  Durham Performing Arts Center (Durham, NC) 
February 24, 2019
Dive into another adventure with Martin and Chris Kratt as they combine live action with animation. Shows are at 1 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. Purchase tickets online. 

Shen Yun - Duke Energy Center for the Performing Arts (Raleigh, NC)
January 4 - 6, 2019
Take a magical journey through China's divine culture. Classical dance, music and storytelling highlight this live show. Purchase tickets online.

Three Kings Day Parade - (Cary, NC)
January 5, 2019 1pm - 4pm
At the Cary Three Kings Day parade, the Three Kings lead a parade of community groups and members of the public in parade filled with music, dance and colorful costumes around the Town Hall campus.

MLK Dreamfest: "Remembering the Leaders of the Dream" (Cary, NC)
January 19, 2019 10am - 11:30am
Hear award-winning storyteller and author Willa Brigham as she shares stories about some of the key leaders of the Civil Rights movement and enjoy crafts. Ages 4-10.

Scotty McCreery: Seasons Change Tour (Raleigh, NC)
January 19, 2019
Scotty McCreery, a Garner, NC native and winner of American Idol Season 10 is performing his new show "Seasons Change" at The Ritz in Raleigh. Don't miss your opportunity and purchase your tickets online!

Chinese New Year Festival - Dorton Arena, NC State Fair Grounds (Raleigh, NC) 
January 26, 2019
Enjoy performances, authentic Chinese food and family-friendly activities. 

Want to purchase tickets to any of the above items?
Click HERE to learn more!

Scandinavian Christmas Fair - NC State Fairgrounds, Holshouser Building (Raleigh)
December 1, 2018
The Scandinavian Christmas Fair in Raleigh, NC, is a celebration of the rich traditions of the Nordic countries:  Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Finland and Iceland.  This year marks the 18th anniversary of the fair. At the Julmarknad, enjoy the sights, sounds, and tastes of Scandinavia with homemade Scandinavian food, live Nordic entertainment all day, craft items and imports for sale, a spectacular Lucia Procession and more.

"A Charlie Brown Christmas" - Theatre in the Park (Raleigh, NC)
December 1, 2, 7, 8, & 9, 2018 
When Charlie Brown complains about the overwhelming materialism he sees among everyone during the Christmas season, Lucy suggests that he become director of the school Christmas pageant. Charlie Brown accepts, but this proves to be a frustrating endeavor. When an attempt to restore the proper holiday spirit with a forlorn little Christmas fir tree fails, he needs Linus’ help to discover the real meaning of Christmas. Purchase tickets online.

"Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer: The Musical"  - Duke Energy Center for the Performing Arts (Raleigh, NC)
December 1 - 25, 2018: Multiple Showings Each Weekend
The beloved TV classic soars off the screen and onto the stage this holiday season. See favorite characters Santa and Mrs. Claus, Hermey the Elf, Bumble the Abominable Snow Monster, Clarice, Yukon Cornelius and Rudolph. Purchase tickets online. 

Aladdin and His Winter Wish - Raleigh Memorial Auditorium (Raleigh, NC)
December 1 - 2, 2018
Based on the Aladdin fairytale of a street rat with a dream, this special holiday-themed production follows the style of the traditional British Panto with singing, swinging and soaring adventure that features family-friendly magic, comedic twists, contemporary music, and more. Purchase tickets online.

Colonial Christmas Open House 2018 - Joel Lane House Museum (Raleigh, NC) 
December 1, 2018
he House, decorated in traditional Colonial holiday splendor, reveals the very different way in which colonists and early Americans celebrated the Yuletide season. Meet re-enactors demonstrating scenes of 18th-century life, while costumed docents share information about the house and grounds, strains of live music fill the air, and children participate in colonial games and crafts through our “Hands-on History” program. Warm up with a free cup of Wassail (a traditional hot spiced cider drink).

"Cinderella" - Raleigh Little Theatre (Raleigh, NC) 
December 1 - 16, 2018: Multiple Performances
This musical comedy is a holiday sugarplum for the whole family with just the right mixture of comedy and romance to add the sparkle of magic to your holiday season. Purchase tickets online.

Cary Players Present "A 1940s Radio Christmas Carol" (Cary, NC) 
December 1 - 3, 2018
Enjoy a festive comedy mixing heart-tugging wartime pathos with the fun and excitement of a live radio play presentation of "A Christmas Carol" and a spur of the moment film noir parody. It is sprinkled with delightful music from 1940’s era swing arrangements, Christmas carols and standards, and fun original songs in the WW II period style. Purchase tickets online.

Sleigh Rides and Cider - Historic Oak View Park (Raleigh, NC) 
December 1, 2018
Kick off your holiday season with horse-drawn carriage rides, hot apple cider, live music, handmade crafts, holiday activities, and, of course, Ol’ Saint Nick.

Lights and Latkes (Raleigh, NC) 
December 2, 2018
Join in celebration of Hanukkah with a group menorah lighting (bring your menorahs from home), fun crafts for the kids, latkes, festive foods and more. Tacky Hanukkah outfits encouraged! This fundraising event is open to the community. Proceeds benefit ongoing teacher education and financial aid programs at Beth Meyer Preschool. Purchase tickets online.

"Elf: The Musical" - Durham Performing Arts Center (Durham, NC) 
December 4 - 9, 2018
Enjoy the story of Buddy, a young orphan child who mistakenly crawls into Santa’s bag of gifts and is transported back to the North Pole. With Santa’s permission, Buddy embarks on a journey to New York City to find his birth father, discover his true identity, and help New York remember the true meaning of Christmas. 

Disney on Ice Presents "Mickey's Search Party" - PNC Arena (Raleigh, NC) 
December 5 - 9, 2018
Join Mickey Mouse and his friends, including Captain Hook, Moana, Belle, Elsa, Aladdin, Ariel and more in a magical celebration on the ice. Purchase tickets online.

Marbles Evening With Elves (Raleigh, NC) 
December 7, 2018
Enjoy a museum play, holiday activities, s'mores outdoors and other festive treats with Santa's elves. Purchase tickets online. Advanced tickets are $25/member, $30/nonmember. Week-of tickets, if available, are $30/member; $35/nonmember.

Capital City Girls Choir Winter Concert - Meredith College (Raleigh, NC) 
December 8, 2018
Enjoy the choir as it performs selections for its annual winter concert. 

Cooking is Fun: Holiday Cupcakes (Cary, NC) 
December 10, 2018
Children with disabilities learn the basics of meal preparation, cooking and clean-up with easy-to-follow recipes. Ages 11 and older. Register online. Choose course #116724.

Trans-Siberian Orchestra Presents  "The Ghosts of Christmas Eve" - PNC Arena (Raleigh, NC) 
December 12, 2018
The rock opera features such enduring fan-favorites as "Christmas Eve/Sarajevo 12/24," "O’ Come All Ye Faithful," "Good King Joy," "Christmas Canon," "Music Box Blues," "Promises To Keep," and "This Christmas Day." Purchase tickets online.

The Johnston County Chorus Presents "A Christmas Spectacular" (Clayton, NC) 
December 15, 2018
The Johnston County Chorus presents "A Christmas Spectacular," its annual holiday show featuring favorite seasonal songs and skits. Special guests this year include dancers from Artistry in Motion dance studio.

The Raleigh Ringers Present "A Holiday Concert" - Duke Energy for the Performing Arts (Raleigh, NC) 
December 15, 2018
Experience The Raleigh Ringers live in concert as they dazzle concert audiences with unique interpretations of sacred, secular, and popular music, including famous rock ‘n’ roll tunes arranged just for handbells. Purchase tickets online; event day tickets are subject to availability.

"The Beach Boys Reason for the Season" - Durham Performing Arts Center (Durham, NC) 
December 17, 2018
Hear The Beach Boys perform their timeless classics, plus seasonal favorites. Purchase tickets online.

Hip Hop Nutcracker - Durham Performing Arts Center (Durham, NC) 
December 20, 2018
See a contemporary re-imagination of Tchaikovky's timeless music. Purchase tickets online.

Raleigh Boychoir Presents "Carols of Christmas" (Raleigh, NC) 
December 21, 2018
The Raleigh Boychoir presents its annual holiday concert. Purchase tickets online.

24th Annual Cary Kwanzaa Celebration (Cary, NC) 
December 28, 2018
Kwanzaa is a community cultural celebration that pays tribute to the African- American heritage by calling into practice seven values – unity, self-determination, collective work and responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity and faith. Enjoy live performances by Bradley Simmons Musical Director at Duke University in Durham and Phylicia Nicole Barker Fashion Model with, Moni B Cosmetics, Crush Model Magazine, Couture, Secure Cultures. There will be fun and activities for everyone. Doors open at 11 a.m. for the vendor marketplace and Children’s Village. The program and performance begins promptly at 11:15 a.m.

North Carolina Symphony Presents "Vienna with a Twist" (Raleigh, NC) 
December 31, 2018
Ring in the new year in style, with the unparalleled sound of a full symphony orchestra. Purchase tickets online.

Want to purchase tickets to any of the above items?
Click HERE to learn more!

77th Annual NC Gourd Arts & Crafts - State Farmer's Market (Raleigh)
November 3-4, 2018
This festival features displays of gourds from around the world, gourd crafting classes, make-and-take crafts and vendors of dried gourds, gourd seeds, gourd crafts, gourd art, books, t-shirts, and crafting supplies. Great holiday presents! There is a gourd competition, silent auction, a free gourd crafting table for kids, and free talks on how to grow gourds. 

So You Think You Can Dance Live! 2018 - Duke Energy Center for the Performing Arts (Raleigh, NC)
November 4, 2018 
Features the Top 10 contestants from Season 15 of the hit TV show, which include the following: Jensen Arnold, Hannahlei Cabanilla, Genessy Castillo, Evan DeBenedetto, Jay Jay Dixonbey, Magdalena Fialek, Darius Hickman, Chelsea Hough, Cole Mills, and Slavik Pustovoytov with more cast announcements to come. 

Astronomy Night - Wilkerson Nature Preserve (Raleigh, NC)
November 8, 2018
Enjoy an indoor presentation and (weather permitting) move outside after sunset to view the moon, stars and planets with the preserve's telescope. Preregister online using course code #228253.

Headbands of Hope Give Gala at Marbles (Raleigh, NC)
November 16, 2018
Give Gala has been celebrated for its unique donation model where tickets to the event are exchanged for time and services that benefit terminally ill children and their families. Attendees offer a service, gift or talent to children with cancer and other life-threatening conditions. This offer is each person's ticket into the gala; offers are then distributed to patients and families who could benefit from them. Attendees also have the option to fulfill a request directly from the patients, families and staff in exchange for a gala ticket. Black-tie event; patient families can wear whatever is best. RSVP online.

Raleigh Christmas Parade (Raleigh, NC) 
November 17, 2018
See Raleigh's annual Christmas parade, featuring large helium balloons, dance and performance groups, floats, Santa and more. Parade held rain or shine. Sponsored by ABC 11.


Want to purchase tickets to any of the above items?
Click HERE to learn more!

Decorate a Pumpkin Contest - State Farmer's Market (Raleigh)
October 4, 2018 11am - 1pm
Children of all ages will have the chance to enter this contest for prize money and bragging rights. Winning pumpkins will remain on display during October.

Heritage Day Festival - Historic Oak View Park (Raleigh, NC)
Oct 6, 2018 
Visit an old-time county fair, featuring live entertainment, heritage crafts, agricultural displays, farm animals, antiques, fishing, pony rides, carriage rides, activities for kids, food and more. 

Celebrate Fuquay Varina (Downtown Fuquay Varina, NC)
October 6, 2018
Live entertainment, food, an artists village, classic car show and kids' zone are showcased in an event that celebrates the town's rich heritage and growing social scene.

North Carolina State Fair (Raleigh, NC)
October 11 - 21, 2018
North Carolina's signature event features live music, carnival rides, delicious food, kids' entertainment and more. See website for hours and ticket prices.

Benson Mule Days (Benson, NC)
October 25 - 27, 2018
Rodeos, a mule-pulling contest, arts and crafts, vendors, carnival rides, street performers, bluegrass shows and more are all part of Benson Mule Days. 

33rd International Festival of Raleigh (Cary, NC)
October 26 - 28, 2018
This annual celebration of multiculturalism brings together nearly 60 international groups who call the Triangle home. Explore the world through main stage performances, cultural exhibits, world bazaars, sidewalk cafes, demonstrations, children’s activities and a naturalization ceremony.

Clayton Harvest & Music Festival (Clayton, NC)
October 31 - November 4, 2018
Live entertainment, food vendors, rides, hands-on activities, local talent performances, a car show, concerts and more. See website for hours.

Want to purchase tickets to any of the above items?
Click HERE to learn more!

Things to do in Johnston County, NC in September.
Click HERE

Things to do in Wake County, NC in September.
Click HERE

Other fun things to do in September.
Click HERE

African American Festival - Downtown Raleigh
September 1-2, 2018
Celebrate African-American culture and history with an art gallery walk, vendors, activities, food and more. See website for hours.

Raleigh Greek Festival (Raleigh, NC)
September 7 - 9, 2018 
Opa! The 37th annual Greek Festival features Greek folk dancing, live music, traditional cuisine, a marketplace and more.

Acorn Festival (Four Oaks, NC)
September 8, 2018
Family fun in downtown Four Oaks includes children's activities, live entertainment, handmade craft vendors, antique car and tractor show, food trucks and more.

Clayton Harvest & Music Festival (Clayton, NC)
September 12-16, 2018
Click HERE for more info!
Live entertainment, food vendors, rides, hands-on activities, local talent performances, a car show, concerts and more. See website for hours.

13th Annual Fall Harvest Celebration - Historic Yates Mill (Raleigh, NC)
September 15, 2018
This family-oriented event includes corn grinding demonstrations and costumed tours of Yates Mill and other event activities including a fun scavenger hunt activity, live music and dance, storytellers, community displays, hand-craft demonstrations and sales, antique vehicles, farm tools, food vendors, and more! For all ages; fee: FREE, although there is a $3-5 fee for mill tours. Registration is not required.

Carnival Latino (Garner, NC)
September 16, 2018
Celebrate Latino culture with live bands, food trucks, dance performances, face painting, a pinata giveaway, crafts and more.

Benson Mule Days (Benson, NC)
September 20-23, 2018
Click HERE for more info!
Rodeos, a mule-pulling contest, arts and crafts, vendors, carnival rides, street performers, bluegrass shows and more are all part of Benson Mule Days. 

Storytelling Festival (Raleigh, NC)
September 30, 2018
Enjoy a day at the park and listen to stories from professional storytellers in an event presented in partnership with Wake County Public Libraries. Enjoy a wagon shuttle, activity tents, and food vendors. Take a blanket or chair. Event held rain or shine.

Want to purchase tickets to any of the above items?
Click HERE to learn more!

Things to do in Johnston County, NC in September.
Click HERE

Things to do in Wake County, NC in September.
Click HERE

Other fun things to do in September.
Click HERE

Clayton Youth Theater Presents "Bye Bye Birdie"
The Clayton Center (Clayton, NC)
August 2-4, 2018
See the musical about rock star and teen idol Conrad Birdie. After he is drafted into the army, his manager Albert Peterson faces financial ruin. Desperate for a publicity stunt big enough to help him survive Birdie’s departure, Albert and his secretary Rose hatch a plan to send Conrad to small-town America to sing one last song and give a kiss to one lucky fan on national television. Purchase tickets online.

Honeybee Day at the State Farmer's Market (Raleigh, NC)
August 18, 2018 11am - 1pm
Learn more about pollinators during this friendly event. Sample and buy local honey and honey-based products.

Jurassic Quest - Raleigh Convention Center (Raleigh, NC)
August 24-26, 2018
Walk through the Cretaceous period, the Jurassic Period and the Triassic period and experience what it was like to be among living dinosaurs. See life-size replicas of adult and baby dinosaurs, dig for fossils, ride on the back of a huge Tyrannosaurus Rex and more.

Want to purchase tickets to any of the above items?
Click HERE to learn more!

Things to do in Johnston County, NC in August.
Click HERE

Things to do in Wake County, NC in August.
Click HERE

Other fun things to do in August.
Click HERE

Independence Day Celebrations
July 1 - 5, 2018
Take a look at this extensive list of Independence Day celebrations happening near you! Click HERE!


Pork, Pickles, & Peanuts - Duke Homestead (Durham, NC)
July 14, 2018
North Carolina's food history and heritage take center stage for the day with barbecue and pie competitions, live music, arts and crafts vendors, kids' games, living history reenactors, cooking demonstrations and guided tours of the homestead.


Want to purchase tickets to any of the above items?
Click HERE to learn more!

Things to do in Johnston County, NC in July.
Click HERE

Things to do in Wake County, NC in July.
Click HERE

Other fun things to do in July.
Click HERE

Raleigh's International Food Festival - City Plaza (Raleigh, NC)
June 9, 2018
Enjoy free entertainment, talented international artists and delicious international food trucks to promote cultural respect through celebration of Raleigh’s diverse culture and food. All ages. 

FATHER'S DAY!!!
June 17, 2018

Pop Pupalooza - Dorothea Dix Park (Raleigh, NC)
June 23, 2018
Enjoy food trucks, games and dog-related vendors.

Repticon - NC State Fairgrounds, Kerr Scott Building (Raleigh, NC)
June 30, 2018Celebrate the wonderful world of exotic animals and reptiles. Enjoy live specimens, presentations, raffles, vendors and much more. Purchase tickets online.  

Want to purchase tickets to any of the above items?
Click HERE to learn more!

Things to do in Johnston County, NC in June.
Click HERE

Things to do in Wake County, NC in June.
Click HERE

Other fun things to do in June
Click HERE