Parks & Rec

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

Join us at John Chavis Memorial Park for a vibrant Juneteenth celebration filled with joy, culture, and community! It’s a day to come together, honor history, and create new memories with friends, family, and neighbors. We’ve got something for everyone—so bring the whole crew! Enjoy a live DJ spinning feel-good tunes, inflatables for the kids, face painting, hands-on crafts, and a variety of fun activities that celebrate freedom and creativity. And don’t worry about snacks—we’ve got food trucks on site serving up delicious eats throughout the event. Whether you're coming to dance, relax, connect, or just soak in the atmosphere, this is one event you won’t want to miss. Come celebrate with us! Location: John Chavis Memorial Park Ages: All Cost: Free

In honor of Juneteenth, come ride the Historic Raleigh Trolley for a special tour highlighting downtown Raleigh's Black heritage. Explore the city aboard the Historic Raleigh Trolley to learn more about the historic homes, schools, churches, and businesses important to the capital’s Black history. Location: Mordecai Historic Park Date: Saturday, June 21 Tour Times: 11 a.m., noon, 1 p.m., and 2 p.m. Ages: All Cost: $10 for adults, $6 for youth (ages 7 - 17)  Get Tickets on RecLink

Sunday, June 22 - Raleigh Concert Band Pullen Park - 520 Ashe Ave, Raleigh, NC Time: 6 p.m. Ages: All Cost: Free Know Before You Go Please bring your own blanket or chair Performers may change without notice Concerts are free, but tips are encouraged At Pullen Park, food will be available for purchase at the cafe At Fletcher Park, please bring your own food and beverages Pullen Park Amusements are open until 8 p.m. It may be canceled for inclement weather. For updates, contact 919-996-6468

Feed your belly and your brain! Bring your lunch to the City of Raleigh Museum and listen to a captivating lecture every third Thursday of the month. Time: noon - 12:45 p.m. Ages: All Cost: Free Previous slide Next slide 1 2 Erin Morton Pugh and Tania Tully Thursday, June 26  Join Erin Morton Pugh and Tania Tully from the City of Raleigh's Historic Preservation Unit. They have recently completed a project to learn about historic places important to the city’s LGBTQIA+ communities. Come hear about how the project got started, the consultant’s research process, highlights from the report, and potential next steps.

Join us for a final open house on June 26, from 5 - 7 p.m. at Tarboro Road Park Community Center (121 N. Tarboro Street, Raleigh). The design team and Raleigh Parks will share the final schematic design plans. Following the June open house, the Parks, Recreation and Greenway Advisory Board and the City Council schematic design will review the project design for final approval later this year. Location: Tarboro Road Community Center Ages: All Cost: Free No Registration Required

2025 Summer Concert Series June 29 - Triangle Sax Ensemble Fred Fletcher Park - 820 Clay Street, Raleigh, NC Time: 6 p.m. Ages: All Cost: Free Know Before You Go Please bring your own blanket or chair Performers may change without notice Concerts are free, but tips are encouraged At Pullen Park, food will be available for purchase at the cafe At Fletcher Park, please bring your own food and beverages Pullen Park Amusements are open until 8 p.m. It may be canceled for inclement weather. For updates, contact 919-996-6468