Parks & Rec

Join us for a talk by Craig Thompson Friend, author & professor of history at North Carolina State University, and celebrate Dr. Friend’s upcoming book “Becoming Lunsford Lane, The Lives of an American Aeneas. Lunsford Lane's story is a biography for our times: a man searching to define life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness in a changing American society scarred by contentious politics, economic challenges, class tensions, loss of political rights, and racial violence. Date: Sunday, June 8 Time: 2 - 3 p.m. Ages: All Cost: Free

Join us for a live music event at Pullen Dance! The Triangle Jazz Orchestra, a 20-piece band will be playing at 2 special dances. Don't miss out on a night of dancing and fun! Can't make it to the dance on April 9, the band will be back for another live performance on June 11. Pre-registration is not required but encouraged, so we can plan accordingly. Location: Pullen Community Center Ages: 18 and older Cost: $10 at the door

Explore the history of North Carolina’s Historically Black Colleges and Universities. Learn about the evolution of education and its political ties following emancipation, as well as considerations for the future—presentation by Dr. Lesa Redmond and Representative Nasif Majeed. Sponsored by the Friends of the City of Raleigh Museum. Location: City of Raleigh Museum Date: Friday, June 13 Time: 7 - 8 p.m. Ages: 18 and up Cost: Free No Registration Required

Get ready for a night of good music, good food, and fun times at Carolina Pines! There will be musical performances, line dancing, sing-a-longs, and much more. Kidz Zone available at the facility with fun games, activities, and snacks for children ages 5-12. Parents will have to sign kids in and out to participate at Kidz Zone. What to Bring: Blankets, Low-standing lawn chairs, sunscreen, bug spray and other outdoor essentials. Ages: 18 and up Kids Zone is available for children ages 5-12 Cost: Free

Join us at Caraleigh Park on Saturday, June 14 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. for a free, family-friendly event celebrating the tactile public art coming to the park! Meet artist, Jean Gray Mohs, share your thoughts on the artwork, and help shape the project with your feedback. Enjoy cool popsicles and get creative with a hands-on paper art activity. All ages welcome—come be part of the process and the fun! This event is free to attend. Learn more about the Public Art at Caraleigh Park. Learn more about the Caraleigh Park Improvements.

Uncover the past through fun, hands-on activities for the whole family! Explore real archaeology techniques with dig boxes, a stratigraphy map, an example excavation square, and more. Perfect for budding scientists and curious minds—come see what you can discover beneath the surface! Join the City of Raleigh Museum for a program that is both educational and entertaining for families every second Saturday of the month. Location: City of Raleigh Museum Date: Saturday, June 14 Time: 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Ages: 0 - 10 years old Cost: Free No Registration Required 

Join artist, Jim Gallucci, for a scratch block workshop at Sertoma Arts Center. Participants will carve their own design into a sand mold that will be cast with molten iron during an iron pour event later this year. Jim will incorporate the completed iron blocks into his design for new art that will be a part of the Sertoma expansion. All materials will be provided. The activity involves scratching into sand, so be prepared to get a little sandy.   Register for the Scratch Block Workshop.

How has community shaped the story of John Chavis Memorial Park over the years? Join us for an evening filled with inspiration, history, and celebration to find out. Whether you're a longtime visitor or stepping into the park for the first time, you’ll have the chance to hear powerful stories from community members, explore pop-up exhibits showcasing decades of Chavis history, and take part in a guided walking tour that brings the park’s past to life. There will be fun activities for kids, delicious eats from local food trucks, and plenty of opportunities to connect with others and celebrate the spirit of belonging. Be a part of the story—and help us grow the ever-evolving commUNITY at Chavis! Location: John Chavis Memorial Park Date: Monday, June 16 Time: 6 - 9 p.m. Ages: All Cost: Free

Get ready for an evening of art, expression, and inspiration at John Chavis Memorial Park! Explore a dynamic exhibition featuring a variety of artistic styles and mediums, each telling its own unique story. Feeling inspired? Jump into our hands-on painting workshop—no experience needed, just bring your creativity. We'll also have light hors d'oeuvres to keep you fueled while you mingle, create, and connect. Come out, get inspired, and experience the power of art in the heart of the community. Location: John Chavis Memorial Park Ages: All Cost: Free

Join us to make time for playing in nature. Children of all ages and the young at heart are welcome to join us for imaginative play in a natural setting.  Dig in the dirt, build a fairy home from natural materials, make mud pies, and more!  We'll provide the materials and guidance to get you started on a playful adventure. Registration is appreciated, but not required. Drop in anytime between 10 a.m. and 12 p.m. to join the fun! Adults must accompany their children. Location: Annie Louise Wilkerson, MD Nature Preserve Park Ages: All Cost: Free Register on RecLink

Get ready to move, groove, and vibe all night long on the plaza! We’re turning up the energy with old school classics and new school hits. A special musical guest will keep the vibe alive, and local food trucks will be on-site serving up delicious bites to keep you fueled all night. This is a celebration of music, movement, and community you won’t want to miss. Let’s bring the groove back—Chavis style! Bring your crew, hit the dance floor, and let the good times roll—you do not want to miss this! Location: John Chavis Memorial Park Date: Wednesday, June 18 Time: 6 - 9 p.m. Ages: All Cost: Free

Join us for a special talk by Torrey Dixon on the legal implications of emancipation. Mr. Dixon is the Vice Chair of the City of Raleigh Human Relations Commission and a Special Deputy Attorney General who is active in furthering Civil Rights legislation. This event is in partnership with the Capital City Lawyers Association. Location: City of Raleigh Museum Date: Thursday, June 19 Time: 2 - 3 p.m. Ages: All Cost: Free