Livable Raleigh

Juneteenth Trolley with Carmen W. Cauthen
2024-06-14 10:00 - 11:00, 2024-06-14 13:00 - 14:00 (America/New_York) | John P. (Top) Greene, 401 MLK Jr Blvd, Raleigh
Back by Popular demand, author and local historian Carmen Wimberley Cauthen will be doing her Trolley tour of Historic Black Neighborhoods for Juneteenth!
Join Cauthen to explore some of Raleigh’s historic black neighborhoods. The tour will start at the Top Greene Community Center and will go from there.
Cost: $10 for adults, $4 for kids ages 5-15Ages: All agesRegister on RecLink

Juneteenth Celebration at The Pines
2024-06-14 20:00 - 22:00 | Carolina Pines Community Center, 2305 Lake Wheeler Road, Raleigh, NC, 27603, United States
Get ready for a night of good music, good food, and fun times at Carolina Pines!
This event is the best of both worlds, as it will feature musical performances and sing-alongs, as well as a valuable education piece on the history of Juneteenth and the holiday’s current representation in the local community. Kids Zone is available for children ages 5-12.
Ages: 18 and upKids Zone is available for children ages 5-12Cost: Free*The event will be moved inside Carolina Pines Community Center if there is inclement weather*

Summer Paddle Day at Lake Wheeler
2024-06-15 10:00 - 15:00 | Lake Wheeler Park, 6404 Lake Wheeler Road, Raleigh, NC, 27603
Join us for a fun-filled day on the water with special guest Raleigh Dragon Boat Club!
We’re hosting an introduction to Stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking, plus a special session on dragon boating. The Dragon Boat Club will provide a unique opportunity to join them on the water. Come out and paddle with us!
Participants must be 18 years of age and must be comfortable around water. You will be in the water and may get wet so please wear appropriate clothing (swimsuit, water shoes or sneakers, t-shirt, hat, sunglasses) and bring a towel and water bottle. We will provide a personal float device, paddles, and instruction.
Ages: 18 and upCost: Free

Juneteenth at Mordecai
2024-06-15 10:00 - 16:00 | Mordecai Historic Park, 1 Mimosa St, Raleigh, NC, 27604
Celebrate Juneteenth at Mordecai Historic Park!
Activities will include a themed park tour, historic games and crafts, and workshops on oral history and African American genealogy.
Ages: AllCost: FreePark tours, trolley tours, and workshops are ticketed; other activities are free.

3rd Annual Raleigh Retro Gamer Summer Expo
2024-06-15 10:00 - 16:00 | Moore Square, 200 S. Blount St., Raleigh, NC, 27601
Join Raleigh Retro Gamers, Moore Square, and Raleigh Parks for a FREE event on Saturday, June 15!
Explore thousands of retro & modern games, consoles, and geek merchandise from over 85 vendors.
Event Highlights

Vendor Marketplace
LIVE Music: 3 bands & a DJ
Drone Attack Game by Aerial Adrenaline
Local Food Trucks
Free-play gaming stations
Gaming Tournaments by AmaZulu Gaming
Cosplay Contest with prizes
Kids activities: Splashpad, chalk art, Nintendo giveaways
Demos by Sword Circle LLC
Extra Life charity game benefiting Duke Children’s Hospital

Don’t miss Raleigh’s biggest retro and modern gaming pop-up market!
Ages: AllCost: Free

Black History Trolley Tour
2024-06-15 11:00 - 14:00 | Mordecai Historic Park, 1 Mimosa St, Raleigh, NC, 27604
Celebrate Juneteenth with this special tour highlighting 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.
Come early or stay after to continue celebrating Juneteenth at Mordecai with special tours, instructional workshops, and hands-on activities from 10 am to 4 pm.
Tickets are $10 per person and are available at reclink.raleighnc.gov. For more information, please call the Mordecai Historic Park Visitor Center at 919-996-4364.
Ages: AllCost: $10Get Tickets on RecLink

Dix Park Community Committee Meeting
2024-06-18 18:00 - 19:30 | All Faith’s Chapel at Dix Park, 1030 Richardson Drive, Raleigh, NC, 27603
The Dix Park Community Committee is an advisory committee designed to represent the diversity of the community and bring a broad range of experiences and expertise to the Dorothea Dix Park project. This committee provides guidance and recommendation to the Dix Park Leadership Committee on matters related to park development, programming, and engagement.
The Dix Park Community Committee meeting will be held in-person at the Greg Poole, Jr. All Faiths Chapel at Dix Park, located at 1030 Richardson Drive, Raleigh NC 27603.
View Meeting Agendas and Minutes using the City’s paperless system

African Cultured Expressions of the Arts
2024-06-19 18:00 - 20:00 | John Greene Park, 401 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd
We are providing a platform to celebrate creativity and cultural heritage through creative expression, culture, and society.
African Cultured Expressions of the Arts entails an in-depth knowledge of African textiles and how to create quilts and other crafts using African fabrics.
Celebrate Juneteenth by attending our African Cultured Expressions of the Arts “Sewcial” on June 19 as we explore Ankara fabrics and African American quilts that tell stories, document family trees, and maintain memories of our heritage.
The history of quilting in Black American culture began as early as the 17th century, with enslaved women threading, sewing, and quilting together patchwork blankets made with scraps of fabric – purely to keep themselves and their families warm throughout the night. Quilts preserve black history, culture and storytelling as art. Attendees will be allowed to explore our African American History Museum exhibit, make take-home crafts using African fabrics to harvest and register on-site for upcoming quilting workshops at John P. “Top” Greene African American Cultural Center.
Ages: AllCost: Free

Norman Builds A Park
2024-06-21 15:00 - 17:00 | Walnut Creek Wetland Center, 950 Peterson St, Raleigh, NC, 27610
Join Raleigh Parks to commemorate Dr. Norman Camp and the history of Walnut Creek Wetland Park.
Celebrate the installation of a larger-than-life storybook and enjoy a live reading of Norman Builds A Park. This children’s book tells the story of Dr. Camp’s commitment and contribution to the Southeast Raleigh community. There will be speakers, food trucks, and guided tours of the park.
RSVP to Kyleene Rooks by June 19 at kyleene.rooks@raleighnc.gov or 919-996-2760.
Ages: AllCost: Free

Strike and Stay: The Story of the Plott Hound
2024-06-23 14:00 - 16:00 | City of Raleigh Museum, 220 Fayetteville St, Raleigh, NC, 27601
Join award-winning author, Bob Plott, as he discusses his first of six books and conducts a program reviewing the history of the Plott Hound breed – the official state dog of North Carolina.
It is a story and breed like no other, a tale of classic Americana telling the stories of not only the history of the breed, but the colorful family members and friends who helped perpetuate their legacy – and still do today.
Ages: All agesCost: Free

Summer Concert Series - Fred Fletcher Park
2024-06-23 18:00 - 20:00 | Fred Fletcher Park, 820 Clay St, Raleigh, NC, 27605
Our Summer Concert Series is back!
We look forward to seeing you all at the parks and enjoy some music from our local bands. Concerts are Free! Bring your own chair or blanket.
Pullen Park520 Ashe Ave, Raleigh, NC
June 30 – Triangle TaikoSept. 15 – The British Invaders Band
Fred Fletcher Park820 Clay Street, Raleigh NC
June 23 – Capital TransitJuly 28 – Tune SwingersAugust 18 – TheloniousAugust 25 – TBDSept. 8 – SWAGSept. 22 – Raleigh Concert Band
Sunday EveningsJune and July, 6 – 8 p.m.Aug. and Sept., 5 – 7 p.m. Ages: AllCost: FreeConcerts may be canceled for inclement. Performers may change without notice. Food is not available at Fred Fletcher Park.

Hands-on-History at Fletcher Park
2024-06-29 10:00 - 12:00 | Fred Fletcher Park, 820 Clay St, Raleigh, NC, 27605
Celebrate National Camera Day at Fletcher Park with a fun camera craft!
Join us at Fred Fletcher Park on National Camera Day for a drop-in project to craft a pinhole camera to take home. You can learn about the history of Fletcher Park, Borden Building, and the former Methodist Home for Children and see some historic campus photos from the archives.
Please bring your camera or phone, because we will also have fun props to use your photography skills and create your silly photos.
Age: All Cost: Free

Summer Concert Series - Pullen Park
2024-06-30 18:00 - 20:00 | Pullen Park Amusements, 520 Ashe Ave., Raleigh, NC, 27606
Our Summer Concert Series is back!
We look forward to seeing you all at the parks and enjoy some music from our local bands. Concerts are Free! Bring your own chair or blanket.
Pullen Park520 Ashe Ave, Raleigh, NC
June 30 – Triangle TaikoSept. 15 – The British Invaders Band
Fred Fletcher Park820 Clay Street, Raleigh NC
July 28 – Tune SwingersAugust 18 – TheloniousAugust 25 – TBDSept. 8 – SWAGSept. 22 – Raleigh Concert Band
Sunday EveningsJune and July, 6 – 8 p.m.Aug. and Sept., 5 – 7 p.m. Ages: AllCost: FreeConcerts may be canceled for inclement. Performers may change without notice. Food is not available at Fred Fletcher Park.

Fall Athletics Signing Day Event
2024-07-13 09:30 - 12:30 | Baileywick Park, 9501 Baileywick Road, Raleigh, NC, 27615
The Athletics Division is excited to announce our Signing Day Event for Fall Sports Registration!
This event will feature food trucks, inflatables, athletic instruction, and fun games. It’s the perfect opportunity for families to come together, gather fall sports information, and enjoy a day of community fun. Rain or Shine!
EVENT DETAILS
Ages: AllCost: Free

Body and Soul: The Intimate Experience of Civil War Soldiers
2024-07-13 10:00 - 13:00 | City of Raleigh Museum, 220 Fayetteville St, Raleigh, NC, 27601
Join us at the City of Raleigh Museum to explore the personal experiences of Civil War soldiers through three unique perspectives.

Dr. James Broomall, The Good Death Undone: The Fate of North Carolinians at Gettysburg
Dr. Douglas Porter, “The Unholy Cause”: Religion and Dissent in Civil War Era North Carolina.
Wade Sokolsky, Raleigh’s Confederate Hospitals, 1861-1865

Ages: AllCost: Free

Tarboro Road Park Redevelopment Drop-In Design Workshop
2024-07-16 16:00 - 20:00 | Tarboro Road Community Center
Please help to design the new and improved Tarboro Road Park.
Join Raleigh Parks and the project design team for a drop-in design workshop. For more information, please visit Tarboro Road Park Improvements.
Ages: AllCost: Free

Battling Across the Color Line
2024-07-20 10:00 - 13:00 | City of Raleigh Museum, 220 Fayetteville St, Raleigh, NC, 27601
African American Baseball Symposium
Gather at the City of Raleigh Museum for an enlightening exploration of the pivotal role African Americans have played in shaping the history of baseball.
This event promises to unite scholars, enthusiasts, and former players in a deep dive into the rich tapestry of African American contributions to America’s favorite pastime. This gathering offers a unique opportunity to celebrate and reflect on the profound impact of African American athletes on the sport and society as a whole.
Cost: FreeAges: All ages

Grand Slam Trivia
2024-07-26 18:00 - 20:00 | City of Raleigh Museum, 220 Fayetteville St, Raleigh, NC, 27601
Get ready to knock it out of the park with an exciting evening of baseball trivia and refreshments at the City of Raleigh Museum, surrounded by the fascinating Diamond Days Exhibit!
Join us for a grand slam of fun and knowledge, where you can enjoy a great game, learn something new, and mingle with fellow enthusiasts. It’s an event that combines the thrill of trivia with the excitement of exploring baseball history – an experience you won’t want to miss!
Ages: 12 and olderCost: Free

Summer Concert Series
2024-07-28 18:00 - 20:00 | Fred Fletcher Park, 820 Clay St, Raleigh, NC, 27605
Our Summer Concert Series is back!
We look forward to seeing you all at the parks and enjoy some music from our local bands. Concerts are Free! Bring your own chair or blanket.
Pullen Park520 Ashe Ave, Raleigh, NC
Sept. 15 – The British Invaders Band
Fred Fletcher Park820 Clay Street, Raleigh NC
July 28 – Tune SwingersAugust 18 – TheloniousAugust 25 – TBDSept. 8 – SWAGSept. 22 – Raleigh Concert Band
Sunday EveningsJune and July, 6 – 8 p.m.Aug. and Sept., 5 – 7 p.m. Ages: AllCost: FreeConcerts may be canceled for inclement. Performers may change without notice. Food is not available at Fred Fletcher Park.

Sneaker Design Day!
2024-08-16 16:00 - 18:00 | Peach Road Cultural Center, 911 Ileagnes Road, Raleigh, 27603
Express yourself in the new school year with a pair of sneakers designed by you!
Come out to Peach Road Cultural Center on Friday, Aug. 16 for sneaker art, treats, games, and fun with family and friends. (While supplies last)
Ages: 8-16Cost: Free

Mud Day
2024-08-17 10:00 - 13:00 | Walnut Creek Wetland Center, 950 Peterson St, Raleigh, NC, 27610
Join us for this free event! Our sixth annual celebration of our wetlands and all things muddy and wonderful!
There will be activities, food trucks, and of course, a giant mud pit! Come dressed to get messy and wet. The full list of festival activities also includes mud kitchen, live animals, fort building, an obstacle course, local environmental organizations, crafts, and water play!
The City’s Community Engagement team will also be in attendance to connect with residents, answer any questions, and encourage public participation.
Ages: AllCost: Free

Raleigh Teen Connect Pool Party
2024-08-17 13:00 - 16:00 | Biltmore Pool, 701 Crown Crossing Lane, Raleigh, NC, 27610
Calling all Middle and High School teens!
Raleigh Teen Connect will host a Pool Party on Saturday, Aug. 17, at Biltmore Pool, 701 Crown Crossing Lane.
The event will include free entry, free food, and a shoe raffle. Come out and have some fun with us!
Ages: Middle and High SchoolCost: Free*Rain Date – Saturday, Aug. 24

Back to School Jamboree at the Park
2024-08-17 17:30 - 20:30 | John Chavis Community Center, 505 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Raleigh, NC, 27601, United States
Join us for an evening filled with bounce houses, entertainment, crafts, and more to celebrate the beginning of the school year.
The Raleigh Police Department will be sponsoring free haircuts for the duration of the event.
Free lunch boxes and water bottles will be available to students while supplies last.
Ages: AllCost: Free
The City’s Community Engagement team will be in attendance to connect with residents, answer any questions, and encourage public participation.

Summer Concert Series
2024-08-18 17:00 - 19:00 | Fred Fletcher Park, 820 Clay St, Raleigh, NC, 27605
Join us at our Summer Concert Series!
We look forward to seeing you all at the parks and enjoy some music from our local bands. Concerts are Free! Bring your own chair or blanket.
Fred Fletcher Park820 Clay Street, Raleigh NC
Aug. 18 – TheloniousAug. 25 – Triangle Sax EnsembleSept. 8 – SWAGSept. 22 – Raleigh Concert Band
Pullen Park520 Ashe Ave, Raleigh, NC
Sept. 15 – The British Invaders Band
Details
Ages: AllCost: FreeConcerts may be canceled for inclement. Performers may change without notice. Food is not available at Fred Fletcher Park.

Dix Park Community Committee Meeting -- Cancelled
2024-08-20 18:00 - 19:30 | All Faith’s Chapel at Dix Park, 1030 Richardson Drive, Raleigh, NC, 27603

Free Friday at Mordecai Historic Park
2024-08-23 10:00 - 15:00 | Mordecai Historic Park, 1 Mimosa St, Raleigh, NC, 27604
Mordecai Historic Park will offer free tours throughout the day on this special Friday!
Tours include the Mordecai House, Andrew Johnson’s birthplace, St. Mark’s Chapel, and the Allen Kitchen. The first tour will begin at 10 a.m. and the last tour starts at 3 p.m. Tours start every 30 minutes and are limited to 20 people on a first-come, first-served basis.
This event is free and does not require registration. For more details, please contact 919-996-4364.
Ages: AllCost: Free

Back to School Giveaway
2024-08-24 11:00 - 13:00 | Sanderford Road Community Center, 2623 Sanderford Rd, Raleigh, NC, 27610
Stop by and join in the fun at this free family event!
Pick up free back-to-school supplies for the kids (while supplies last). We will offer free braiding and haircuts from 9 – 11 a.m. in the Sanderford Road Neighborhood Center.
Event Partners: Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., Hiram Tyree #727 Masonic Lodge, Recidivism Reduction Educational Program Services, North Carolina Empowerment Organization, and Having Aunties in Reach.
Ages: 5 – 15Cost: Free

Summer Concert Series
2024-08-25 17:00 - 19:00 | Fred Fletcher Park, 820 Clay St, Raleigh, NC, 27605
Join us at our Summer Concert Series!
We look forward to seeing you all at the parks and enjoy some music from our local bands. Concerts are Free! Bring your own chair or blanket.
Fred Fletcher Park820 Clay Street, Raleigh NC
Aug. 25 – Triangle Sax EnsembleSept. 8 – SWAGSept. 22 – Raleigh Concert Band
Pullen Park520 Ashe Ave, Raleigh, NC
Sept. 15 – The British Invaders Band
Details
Ages: AllCost: FreeConcerts may be canceled for inclement. Performers may change without notice. Food is not available at Fred Fletcher Park.

Final Friday Fitness
2024-08-30 17:00 - 20:00 | Moore Square, 200 S. Blount St., Raleigh, NC, 27601
Join us on the Final Friday of every month from May through October for a unique series where fitness embraces festivity. Each month, we feature a new, free workout led by local fitness experts, surrounded by Raleigh’s finest food trucks and local vendors. We finish off the night with live music by a local artist as you enjoy your post-workout meal on the lawn.
