The Triangle Weekender 2026

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2026

t s E b E h t E c ExpEriEn ErE you livE of wh Arts & Culture

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Food & Drink

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Outdoor Adventures

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& More!

After the sun goes down, our nightlife lights up. From live shows to epic DJs, our local music scene is sure to move and groove you to the dance floor, where you can really let loose.

Let curiosity take the lead. visitchapelhill.org

Founded by renowned industry leader Dr. Sue Ellen Cox, Aesthetic Solutions is recognized for excellence in aesthetic medicine. Our physicians and highly skilled team of healthcare professionals combine injectables, lasers, and technologies with compassionate, personalized care to deliver natural, thoughtful results.

Photo by Tad Davis Photography

wrinkle-relaxers • dermal fillers • laser resurfacing fat reduction • muscle toning • laser hair removal chemical peels • medical-grade facials • skincare Left to right:

Lisa Ishii, MD,

Sue Ellen Cox, MD,

Payvand Kamrani, DO

Photo by Tad Davis Photography

BEST OF DURHAM 2026

Photo

by Nikki Whitt, Fancy This Photography Photography

by HuthPhoto Photo by HuthPhoto

919.403.6200 | @aestheticsolutionsnc | aesthetic-solutions.com

2026 We asked our staff:

thetriangleweekender.com

How do you spend your weekends in the Triangle?

SQUARE-FACEBOOK INSTAGRAM @thetriangleweekender PUBLISHER

Jenna Parks

EXECUTIVE EDITOR

Morgan Cartier Weston morgan.weston@trianglemediapartners.com EDITORIAL EXECUTIVE MANAGING EDITOR

Amanda MacLaren

EDITOR, CHAPEL HILL MAGAZINE

“I frequent Raleigh concert venues – I recently caught Kesha at Coastal Credit Union Music Park at Walnut Creek, and I’m going to see Goose play Red Hat Amphitheater this weekend! For more intimate shows, The Ritz, Lincoln Theatre and Kings can’t be beat. I’m also a huge fan of North Carolina Symphony’s Summerfest Series at Koka Booth Amphitheatre in Cary.”

Jessica Stringer

ASSISTANT EDITOR

Sharon Kinsella

EDITORIAL INTERNS

Sophia Abbott, Beckett Brantley, Ali Grau, Ever Harris, Sophia Herndon, Olivia Jarman, Maya Keating, Rebekah Mann, Katrina McLean, Lexi Tatum and Libby Wakefield CONTRIBUTORS

Andrea Akin and Erin Woodiel ART & PRODUCTION MAGAZINE DESIGN DIRECTOR

Kevin Brown

PHOTOGRAPHER

John Michael Simpson MAGAZINE DESIGNER

Alex Crotti

“The Museum of Life and Science in Durham is a great place to take my granddaughter.

When I’m with friends, we love taking in the views from the rooftop at The Durham Hotel.”

AD MANAGER

Khadijah Weekes-Nolan ADVERTISING

For advertising inquiries, email advertising@chapelhillmagazine.com Melissa Cooley melissa.cooley@trianglemediapartners.com Melissa Crane melissa.crane@trianglemediapartners.com Sarah Davis sarah.davis@trianglemediapartners.com Megan Hussey megan.hussey@trianglemediapartners.com Lucinda Poole lucinda.poole@trianglemediapartners.com Clayton Wrisley clay.wrisley@trianglemediapartners.com PRESIDENT

CORPORATE

Rory Kelly Gillis VICE PRESIDENT, SALES

Chris Elkins, chris.elkins@trianglemediapartners.com “My kids have enjoyed Marbles Kids Museum for years. It’s been fun to see them graduate from the lower-level spaces to playing for hours upstairs in the craft or sports areas.

We love the newer secret slide and the outdoor renovation.”

VICE PRESIDENT, CREATIVE OPERATIONS

DEPUTY EDITOR, HEART OF NC WEDDINGS

Renee Ambroso

CLIENT ONBOARDING & OPERATIONS MANAGER

Brian McIndoo

Ashlin Acheson, ashlin.acheson@trianglemediapartners.com

DIGITAL MARKETING MANAGER

VICE PRESIDENT, CLIENT SERVICES

CREATIVE MARKETING MANAGER

VICE PRESIDENT, FINANCE & ADMINISTRATION

MULTIMEDIA CONTENT PRODUCER

ACCOUNTING & ADMINISTRATION MANAGER

DISTRIBUTION

MULTIMEDIA PUBLISHER & DIRECTOR OF CLIENT DIGITAL STRATEGY

CO-FOUNDERS

Sally Scruggs Amy Bell

Cassady Orsini

Jenna Parks

Jack Fry

Lindsay Scott

Caleb LeJeune Matt Bair

thetriangleweekender.com

“I enjoy outdoor activities like visiting Falls Lake, Umstead State Park and Lake Crabtree, or playing pickleball at Sanderford Road Park or Method Community Center in Raleigh.”

Dan Shannon & Ellen Shannon

The Triangle Weekender is published annually by Triangle Media Partners 1777 Fordham Blvd., Ste. 105, Chapel Hill, NC 27514 | 919–933–1551

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“My wife and I love Durham’s food scene. Our current faves are chef Mike Lee’s M Sushi and M Tempura, as well as Juju and Press Coffee, Crepes & Cocktails.

Places we take our kids include Elmo’s Diner, Dame’s Chicken & Waffles, Boxcar, Picnic and Shiki Sushi.”

“I love to explore downtown Carrboro on a weekend afternoon. I’ll start with a coffee from Open Eye Cafe, then walk over to Carr Mill Mall or peruse the art and gifts at My Muses Card Shop & Gallery. I’ll pop into Golden Fig Books for a new (or new to me) read, and end the day with some fresh pasta at Tesoro or hand-tossed pizza at Napoli.”

On the Cover North Carolina State Fair

by John Michael Simpson

Megan Kerns Photography

Featuring free admission to the public and a year-round calendar of special exhibitions and art-related activities for all ages, the Ackland Art Museum is a hub of dynamic activity on the campus of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Visit us Wednesday through Sunday. We stay open late once a month during the Second Friday ArtWalk.

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill 101 S. Columbia St. at Franklin St. Chapel Hill, NC 27514 919-966-5736 | ackland.org thetriangleweekender.com

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KEEP MIXING

Put down roots today.

Your community awaits.

KEEP GROWING

SM

THE FOREST AT DUKE EARLY ACCEPTANCE PROGRAM Vibrant living. Continuing care. In the heart of Durham. forestduke.org | 800-278-9729

Hillsborogh

ORANGE COUNTY

TABLE of CONTENTS 12 The Ultimate Checklist Must-dos to make the most out of life in the Triangle

EAT & DRI N K 30 New & Noteworthy Fresh foodie destinations worth a visit 32 Seeing Stars Meet the chefs brining Michelin nods and national recognition to our towns 36 Meals That Matter Chefs, restaurateurs and food-focused nonprofits that give back 40 Experiences to Savor Enjoy food and friendly competition with your favorite person 43 Spirited Away Distilleries that raise the bar 46 Rise & Dine The best meal of the day: brunch!

48 To Market Shop our region’s many farmers markets 50 Our Picks for U-Picks Harvest your own berries, flowers and more

CHATHAM COUNTY 421

51 Wine Down Sip, shop and stock up 52 Raise a Glass Find your next favorite local pour 54 Late Night Keep the party going with these after-hours bites and bevs

A RTS & C U LT U R E 62 Magic Makers Meet a few of the artists making the Triangle more colorful 68 On Display Dive into art, science and local history 76 Annual Events Mark your calendar for seasonal celebrations

A DVE N T URE 94 Adventure Awaits Museums and play spaces for kids 98 Top 10 Parks & Playgrounds Spend the day exploring these first-rate, family-friendly outdoor destinations 100 Boredom Busters Fun activities for teens and tweens 102 Get Physical Join a sports league or club

DURHAM COUNTY 15 Falls Lake

85 Durham

Chapel Hill

WAKE COUNTY

540 Carrboro 885

40

Cary

440

87

Raleigh

40

64

Apex

Pittsboro

Jordan Lake

40 Shearon Harris Reservoir

Guides

24 Local Love 56 Retail Therapy 60 Catch a Show 88 Fun & Free

Entertainment Districts 10 North Hills 44 Fenton 66 American Tobacco Campus 74 Mosaic at Chatham Park 104 University Place

The Triangle, Defined

Home to thriving downtowns, renowned universities and flourishing dining and arts scenes, the Triangle takes its name from the geographical points of Raleigh, Durham and Chapel Hill. The region takes its nickname from Research Triangle Park, the research and technology hub established in the 1950s between the area’s three major universities. What began as a vision to keep talented graduates in North Carolina has

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grown into one of the country’s most innovative metros; today, the Triangle encompasses dozens of dynamic communities with award-winning restaurants, modern breweries, outdoor adventures, thriving arts scenes, renowned festivals and Southern hospitality. Whether you’re a longtime local or here for just a few days, The Triangle Weekender is your guide to discovering the people, places and experiences that make this one of the state’s most exciting destinations.

Big health benefits for local businesses North Carolina’s small businesses are the backbone of our state’s economy. Amid rising health care costs, these businesses are feeling the pinch.

Enter Carolina HealthWorks,1 a collaboration designed to provide local businesses with quality health plans within their budget. See why more than 1,000 companies – including some that had never been able to offer health plans to their employees before – have enrolled as of April 2026!2

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Carolina HealthWorks,1 the result of a partnership between Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina (Blue Cross NC) and the NC Chamber, is a multiple employer welfare arrangement available to members of the NC Chamber and participating local chambers. It can give your business flexibility, convenience, and competitive rates typically enjoyed by larger companies. This partnership provides businesses with 2 to 50 employees access to savings of up to 45% compared to the Affordable Care Act (ACA),3 an expansive network, global coverage, and employee wellness programs.4 What makes Carolina HealthWorks different: •

Offers a variety of health plans including: - Health Savings Account (HSA) eligible plans - Plans with no deductible or coinsurance - Dental and vision coverage

•

Fixed monthly fees

•

Risk-based pricing

“Our partnership with the NC Chamber, and the launch of Carolina HealthWorks, is an example of creative collaboration to solve a real problem: The soaring cost of health care for small businesses.”

– Dr. Tunde Sotunde President and CEO, Blue Cross NC

“For 20 years, we had never been able to secure a financially feasible, high-quality health care benefit plan. We are thankful to Blue Cross NC, the NC Chamber of Commerce, and our state lawmakers for making this a possibility.”

“The creation of Carolina HealthWorks is a meaningful step in giving small businesses a tangible, more affordable path forward. We appreciate Blue Cross NC’s willingness to partner and find an affordable, thoughtful solution.”

– Amy White Executive Director, Community of Hope Ministries

– Gary Salamido President and CEO, NC Chamber

Learn more at BlueCrossNC.com/WhyCarolinaHealthWorks 1 The NC Chamber is the sponsor and plan administrator of Carolina HealthWorks, which is a self-insured non-plan Multiple Employer Welfare Arrangement. Third-party administrative services are provided by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina. The NC Chamber and Carolina HealthWorks are separate entities and do not provide Blue Cross or Blue Shield products or services. Benefits are provided by the NC Chamber Benefit Trust, with excess coverage from a licensed insurer. The Trust isn’t backed by a guaranty association but is regulated by the NC Department of Insurance.

2 Blue Cross NC. (2026, April 6). MEWA Sold Groups as of April 6, 2026.

3 Projected rate comparison savings reflected. Results may vary due to census changes and plan selection. Blue Cross NC. (2026, February 16). Actuary RAF Modeling Report - January 2026 Renewals.

4 Blue Cross NC offers wellness programs as a convenience to aid members in improving their health; results are not guaranteed. Blue Cross NC may contract with independent third-party vendors for the provision of certain aspects of our wellness programs and is not liable in any way for goods or services received from them. These vendors do not offer Blue Cross or Blue Shield products or services. Blue Cross NC reserves the right to discontinue or change our wellness programs at any time. These programs are educational in nature. They are intended to help members make informed decisions about their health and comply with their doctor’s plan of care. Decisions regarding care should be made with the advice of a doctor. ®, SM are marks of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association, an association of independent Blue Cross and Blue Shield plans. All other marks and names are property of their respective owners. Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. U49737, 6/26

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A Closer Look at

NORTH HILLS O

ne of North Raleigh’s most dynamic destinations, North Hills has evolved into much more than a shopping center. The walkable districts blend dining, entertainment, lodging, green spaces and retailers into a hub where it’s easy to spend a few hours – or a few days.

By Sharon Kinsella Photography courtesy of Kane Realty Corp.

North Hills hosts plenty of events from spring through fall, including: North Hills Kids, a free, family-friendly series of story times, music, movement and crafts on select Tuesdays.

Support small businesses by shopping North Hills’ collection of independently owned retailers. Browse designer fashion at Monkee’s and Uniquities, find your next read at Quail Ridge Books, pick up specialty stationery and gifts at Paper Source, then wander Makers Alley, where hyperlocal artisans and micro-retailers showcase everything from candles and plants to apparel, wellness offerings and handcrafted goods.

The Midtown Makers Market, bringing local makers, artisans and small businesses together on the third Thursday of the month.

ARTS & CULTURE

Wellness Wednesdays, a fun way to break a sweat for any age, ability or interest level.

The Midtown Farmers Market, a staple for nearly two decades held yearround at The Commons.

Plan the perfect date with a cuppa from Jubala Coffee or a meal at Rosewater Kitchen & Bar, James Beardnominated restaurateur Giorgios Bakatsias’ dreamy Mediterraneaninfluenced eatery, followed by the latest blockbuster at Regal Cinemas just a short walk away.

Grab a to-go cocktail, glass of wine or cold beer from participating restaurants and bars and explore the Park District and North Hills Innovation District with the Sip n’ Stroll program. P.S. Velvet Taco and Barking Dog recently joined the lineup!

Treat yourself to a little selfcare at Face Foundrié, a recently opened facial bar focused on making skin care inclusive, approachable and accessible. Book a facial, brow service or lash treatment, then leave with personalized recommendations from the studio’s skin-care experts to keep your glow going long after your appointment.

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Make a reservation at Tamasha when the occasion calls for a little something special. The stylish concept led by Chef Bhavin Chhatwani – a 2025 James Beard Award semifinalist – pairs modern Indian cuisine with craft cocktails in an energetic atmosphere, and recently earned a spot among 50 Indian restaurants recognized by the Michelin Guide in the United States.

Catch a concert in Midtown Park and make an evening of it. Grab a seat on the pet-friendly patio at Barking Dog for comforting fare and cocktails, or swing by Chuy’s for made-to-order Tex-Mex before the music starts. From the Midtown Beach Music Series running April through July to surprise acoustic pop-up performances throughout common areas, it’s easy to pair dinner with a show.

Step inside RH Raleigh and you’ll quickly see why it’s one of North Hills’ most striking destinations. The three-story, 60,000-square-foot luxury home gallery feels more like a design museum than a furniture store, with curated interiors, grand installations and elegant details around every corner. Before you leave, head to the rooftop restaurant for a meal or glass of wine beneath chandeliers, olive trees and a soaring glass-andsteel atrium. TW

Live Well Every Day with Epcon Communities

© IP86, LLC 2026

© IP86, LLC 2026

ENJOY THE FREEDOM YOU’VE EARNED Epcon’s communities offer a luxury low-maintenance lifestyle that gives you more time for the people, places and moments that matter most.

With lawn care included, you’re free from yard work and free to live life your way—relax by the pool, play pickleball with friends or explore the Triangle’s dining, entertainment and local favorites nearby.

Epcon’s luxury ranch homes are designed for single-level living and feature open floor plans with everything you need on one floor. Enjoy an enriching lifestyle and live well every day in a beautiful new home with all the comfort and features you want today and for years to come.

© IP86, LLC 2026

© IP86, LLC 2026

© IP86, LLC 2026

Scan the QR code to discover our low-maintenance communities in the Raleigh-Durham area.

EpconRaleigh.com 919.887.8457 © IP86, LLC 2026

©️2026 IP86, LLC. Although all floor plans, features, illustrations, and specifications of the homes and communities are believed correct at the time of publication, the right is reserved to make changes, without notice or obligation. Windows, doors, ceilings, layout, colors, finishes and room sizes may vary depending on the options and elevations selected. This information is for illustrative purposes only and not part of a legal contract. Some communities may be age-restricted, in which no less than eighty percent of homes in the community must have at least one permanent occupant fifty-five years of age or older.

Have a Durham burger showdown and decide your favorite among King’s Sandwich Shop, Dain’s Place, QueenBurger,

EAT, S I P & SAVOR Order a legendary BLT (single, double or triple) at Merritt’s Grill in Chapel Hill.

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Bull City Burger & Brewery, Bar Virgile and OnlyBurger.

Indulge in a Pickle Juice Caesar and Macaroni Au Gratin at Poole’s.

Grab a Blue Cup and soak up the atmosphere at He’s Not Here.

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Sample locally made chocolate at Videri Chocolate Factory or Escazú Chocolates in Raleigh.

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Enjoy fresh seafood at Durham’s Saltbox Seafood Joint, where the catch arrives daily from the North Carolina coast.

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Discover your next favorite brewery, cidery or distillery and raise a glass to locally crafted beverages (visit our Eat & Drink section for ideas!).

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Spend an afternoon eating, shopping and exploring at The Plant in Pittsboro.

THE ULTIMATE CHECKLIST Must-dos to make the most of life in the Triangle Photography by John Michael Simpson

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Spend a day kayaking, fishing, swimming, paddleboarding or boating at Jordan Lake or Falls Lake.

Take a Triangle Food & City Tour, Taste Carolina or Flavors of the Bull food and drink tour to experience the region one bite and sip at a time.

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Relax with a smoothie or acai bowl on the patio at The Purple Bowl in Chapel Hill.

O UT D O O R A DV E N TUR ES Walk, run or bike the American Tobacco Trail, Hillsborough’s Riverwalk or the Neuse River Greenway Trail.

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Hike to the summit at Occoneechee Mountain State Natural Area.

Explore the trails, rivers and wildlife of Eno River State Park in Durham or Umstead State Park in Cary.

Challenge yourself to reach new heights at Cary’s Bond Park Challenge Course.

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Take a scenic wooded excursion over a historic train track aboard the New Hope Valley Railway in New Hill, or hop aboard the Ellerbe Creek Railway at Durham’s Museum of Life and Science.

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Experience peak lavender season at Lavender Oaks Farm.

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Play a round of disc golf at Cedar Hills Park or Leigh Farm Park.

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Spend a summer evening watching the sunset from Dorothea Dix Park’s Big Field. 

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G A R D EN S, FA R M S & N AT URA L B EAUT Y Wander the paths of Sarah P. Duke Gardens, stop and smell the roses at the Raleigh Rose Garden, or explore the flora at the JC Raulston Arboretum or the North Carolina Botanical Garden.

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Shop for flowers, produce and local goods at one of the Triangle’s many farmers markets (see page 48 for our guide!) or year-round farm stands.

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Picnic at Merritt’s Pasture in Chapel Hill before exploring nearby trails.

Stroll Poet’s Walk at Ayr Mount in Hillsborough.

ARTS, C ULT UR E & C REATIV IT Y Catch can’t-miss theater as Chapel Hill’s PlayMakers Repertory Company marks 50 years of storytelling. The 2026-27 season features productions like Pulitzer Prize-winning “Our Town” and Hitchcock’s suspenseful “The 39 Steps.”

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Browse original art at Frank Gallery, Peel Gallery + Photo Lab and The ArtsCenter in Carrboro. 

The State Farmers Market in Raleigh is open seven days a week all year long.

Experience a performance from Carolina Performing Arts or Duke Arts Presents.

PHOTO BY M. SHERWOOD

The legendary Martha Graham Dance Company makes frequent stops at UNC’s Memorial Hall during Carolina Performing Arts’ awe-inspiring seasons.

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Best Museum Best Event Space Best Family Outing

The Museum of Life and Science is one of North Carolina’s top-rated destinations.

It’s an interactive science center, a nature park with animals, and 84 acres of openended experiences. We’ve got bears, dinosaurs, train rides, treehouses, NASA artifacts, and butterflies from around the world. See you soon!

433 W. Murray Ave, Durham, NC 27704 lifeandscience.org 919-220-5429

Visit our university art museums: UNC’s Ackland Art Museum, the Gregg Museum of Art & Design at NC State and the Nasher Museum of Art at Duke University.

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Attend monthly art walks when galleries stay open late on First Fridays in Raleigh, Third Fridays in Durham, Last Fridays in Hillsborough and Finally Fridays in Pittsboro.

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Take an art, pottery, photography or drawing class at ClayWorx, Durham Arts Council, the newly reopened Eno Arts Mill or The Centerpiece.

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Catch a touring Broadway show at the Durham Performing Arts Center.

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See a production at Raleigh Little Theatre or Theatre in the Park.

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Soak up the Hillsborough arts scene at Saltire Gallerie, Hillsborough Gallery of Arts and Margaret Lane Gallery.

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Attend a concert at The Ritz, Cat’s Cradle, The Pinhook, Motorco Music Hall or Slim’s.

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HISTORY & M U S E U M S Explore four floors of discovery at the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences.

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Learn about local history at the Museum of Durham History.

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Visit the Burwell School Historic Site and discover the story of Elizabeth Hobbs Keckly. While you’re in Hillsborough, head one block south to the Orange County Historical Museum and continue exploring the area’s past.

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Tour the Horace Williams House in Chapel Hill.

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Get a library card and explore your local branch.

Learn about Chatham County’s past at the Chatham Historical Museum.

Spend an afternoon at Marbles

Kids Museum.

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Climb aboard a giant pirate ship, splash through a 65-foot-long water table and build to your imagination's content with giant blocks at Marbles Kids Museum.

ONLY IN THE TRIA NGL E

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Watch a sunset from the lawn at Weaver Street Market in Carrboro.

Take Amtrak from Raleigh to Durham just for the adventure.

Trek across Triangle Land Conservancy’s eight free, public nature preserves that are open year-round, dawn to dusk.

PHOTO COURTESY OF NORTH CAROLINA MUSEUM OF ART

Enjoy a LocoPops popsicle on a warm afternoon.

Explore the latest exhibitions at the North Carolina Museum of Art in Raleigh, and plan to picnic among the sculptures in its 164-acre Museum Park.

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A N I M A L LOV E RS Tour Carolina Tiger Rescue to get an up-close look at rescued big cats and other wildlife.

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Volunteer, foster or adopt a pet from a local shelter or rescue organization, like APS of Durham, Hope Animal Rescue, Piedmont Farm Animal Refuge, Paws4ever, Orange County Animal Shelter or Chatham Animal Rescue and Education.

Book a tour at the Duke Lemur Center to meet nearly 250 resident animals representing 12 species, including lemurs, bush babies and aye-ayes, and learn about the center's conservation efforts.

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Stop by Fearrington Village and say hello to the famous belted cows, goats and chickens.

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Visit cat cafés Cat Tales in Chapel Hill or Purr Cup in Raleigh and connect with adoptable cats while enjoying your favorite caffeinated beverage.

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PHOTO COURTESY OF DISCOVER DURHAM

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Get a tarot reading at Arcana in Durham.

Enjoy gourmet popcorn from The Mad Popper for your next movie night.

Grab a bite from local spots like Char-Grill, Beyu Caffé, Crawford’s Genuine, Adios!, Bond Brothers Kitchen & Bar, La Farm Bakery or Conniption Cocktails & Cuisine before your flight out of RDU International Airport. 

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SPORTS & SCHOOL SPIRIT Cheer on the Durham Bulls or Carolina Blaze at a summer ballgame.

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Experience Tobacco Road rivalry season by attending a Duke, UNC or NC State basketball game.

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Catch the Carolina Hurricanes on the ice at Lenovo Center fresh off their Stanley Cup win and experience the loudest fans in the NHL!

PHOTO BY JOSH LAVALLEE

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Attend a North Carolina Courage or North Carolina FC match at WakeMed Soccer Park.

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Join the crowd for UNC’s Old Well Walk before a football game.

Visit the Carolina Basketball Museum, Duke Basketball Museum or NC State Athletics Walk of Fame.

Skate, bike or spectate at the Daniel Dhers Action Sports Complex, Durham Skate Park or Rodgers Family Skate Plaza.

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EXPLORE DOW NTOW NS & LOCA L GEMS Wander through American Tobacco Campus and snap a photo of the Lucky Strike Tower.

 Learn to climb or take an intro class at The Boulder Garden, Progression Climbing or Triangle Rock Club.

Browse vintage home and clothing finds at Father & Son Antiques, Uniquitiques, Dolly’s Vintage, Screaming for Vintage, Durham Vintage Collective or Flying Apple Vintage.

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Hunt for treasures at the Raleigh Market or find a pair of quirky earrings at Light Years Jewelry.

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Ride the Historic Raleigh Trolley or take a free walking tour with Preservation Durham. 

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Ride your bike down Franklin Street to admire Chapel Hill’s public art.

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Explore Hideaway Woods,

PHOTO COURTESY OF MUSEUM OF LIFE AND SCIENCE

a sprawling treehouse and stream that encourages nature play, at the Museum of Life and Science.

Snap a photo at the iconic “Greetings from Chapel Hill” mural by Scott Nurkin or with the Major the Bull sculpture in Durham.

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FAMILY FUN

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Spend a rainy day at the Carolina Theatre, Varsity Theatre or Lumina Theater.

Play retro arcade games at Boxcar Bar + Arcade or The Baxter.

Tackle ropes courses and fly down ziplines at Xtreme Park Adventures

or TreeRunner Adventure Park. TW

Loren Pease’s butterfly-and-flower mural on East Rosemary Street brings a burst of nature to the streetscape.

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Sponsored Content

HEART OF NORTH CAROLINA VISTORS BUREAU heartofnorthcarolina.com | 336.626.0364

W

elcome to Randolph County, where adventure, history, and natural beauty meet. Begin at the North Carolina Zoo, the world’s largest naturalhabitat zoo. Covering 500 acres, it showcases the wonders of Africa and North America, with an Asia section opening soon! Seagrove Pottery invites you to explore a heritage shaped by nine generations of local artisans.

The ancient Uwharrie National Forest offers outdoor enthusiasts rugged hiking trails and

Fun Facts

• Richard Petty, the “King” of NASCAR, calls Randleman home. Visitors can explore his family’s legacy at Petty Family Attractions.

• Tour one of the largest privately owned homes in the Southeast United States with more than 60 rooms at Linbrook Heritage Estate in Trinity.

• See military artifacts from World War I to the present, including a Piper J-3 “Flitfire” flown by Orville Wright at the North Carolina Aviation Museum & Hall of Fame in Asheboro.

pristine springs. Randolph County’s agritourism roots run deep. Kersey Valley Spookywoods started in 1985 after friends were startled by bats in an abandoned farmhouse, growing into one of the Southeast’s largest haunted attractions. Each fall, Millstone Creek Orchards presses more than 300 gallons of fresh cider weekly, packing up to 30 apples into every jug.

Whitaker Farms has offered fresh produce and family fun for 50 years. Randolph County looks forward to your visit!

Upcoming Events

• Experience Pottery in a Weekend –

Visit two locations and take a tour the weekend before Thanksgiving. Shop early for the holidays while meeting potters, watching demonstrations, and browsing seasonal decor. Shop locally and experience a welcoming, passionate art community.

• Kersey Valley Spookywoods -

This nationally recognized haunted attraction located in Archdale, North Carolina is just a short drive from Asheboro.

DESTINATIONS

AAeghany County

& Sparta, N.C.

Sightseeing, hiking, biking, fishing, kayaking, tubing, shopping, dining, music, crafts, history, and small-town fun - all year long!

NC FRIED APPLE PIE FESTIVAL: 1ST WEEKEND IN MAY BLUE RIDGE FIBER FEST: 1ST WEEKEND IN JUNE MUSIC ON MAIN STREET CONCERTS: 1ST SATURDAYS, JUNE-SEPT. ALLEGHANY FIDDLER’S CONVENTION: 3RD WEEKEND IN JULY SPARTA STAMPEDE RODEO: 4TH WEEKEND IN JULY BLUE RIDGE MOUNTAIN HERITAGE FESTIVAL 3RD SATURDAY IN SEPT.

See our full event calendar at: alleghanycountychamber.com • (336) 372-5473

DestinationMcdowell.com

Where Nature Flows Without Boundaries

Exceptional coffee meets an inspiring mission at 321 Coffee. Founded in Raleigh and staffed by individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, its freshly roasted beans and beautifully packaged blends support inclusion while delivering a great cup of coffee. 

 Cult of Reason Skin Care

Melville Ceramics

PHOTO COURTESY OF 321 COFFEE

Raleigh Denim Workshop’s Raw Selvage Jeans

Bright Black’s “Durham” Candle

Capture the spirit of Bull City with Bright Black’s “Durham” scent, a sophisticated fragrance inspired by the city’s history and landscape.

Notes of tobacco, jasmine and cedar create a warm, distinctive aroma perfect for cozy evenings at home. 

This shop creates heirloomquality jeans the old-fashioned way, blending time-honored craftsmanship with authentic vintage sewing machines. Each pair is signed by the jeansmith who crafted it, reflecting the pride and care that goes into every stitch. 

 Big Spoon Roasters Pistachio Crunch

Hillsborough-based Big Spoon Roasters grinds heirloom Mission almonds into a smooth base and adds organic Vermont maple syrup and Jacobsen Salt Co. sea salt before folding in whole California pistachio kernels to create a crunchy, delectable spread that shines on toast, as part of any brunch spread or cheese board, or eaten straight from the spoon.

LOVE

Discover made-in-the-Triangle snacks and gifts worth sharing – or keeping for yourself Photography by John Michael Simpson

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PHOTO COURTESY OF RALEIGH DENIM WORKSHOP

ARTS & CULTURE

Handcrafted in Durham, Melville Ceramics creates one-of-a-kind pottery inspired by the beauty of the natural world. Founder and artist Kelsey Melville works with natural clays, leaving many pieces unglazed to showcase their rich, earthy tones – from bold reds to deep blacks – while adding delicate and colorful handpainted linework.

Created by longtime aesthetician Angela Hugghins, Cult of Reason is a Carrboro-based skin care line that skips the trends with clean, science-backed products and thoughtfully chosen ingredients. The streamlined collection is vegan, cruelty-free and designed to simplify daily skincare, making it ideal for anyone who appreciates effective, uncomplicated self-care.

Cackalacky Cheerwine Sweet Sauce

This sweet-and-savory sauce brings together two iconic North Carolina flavors – Salisbury’s beloved Cheerwine and Cackalacky’s signature spice blend – for a bold, tomato-based barbecue sauce that’s as versatile as it is flavorful. Use it as a dipping sauce, marinade or glaze, then slather it on burgers, brush it over ribs or stir it into baked beans for a distinctly Carolina twist. 

Videri Chocolate Factory Chocolates

This “bean to bar” chocolate factory celebrates its 15th anniversary in 2026. The process blends local ingredients, internationally sourced cacao beans and sustainable packaging for an experience as ethical as it is delicious. Discover the science behind each bite on a tasting tour at its downtown Raleigh location. 

PHOTO COURTESY OF CACKALACKY

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l a c Lo

PHOTO COURTESY OF CULT OF REASON

321 Coffee

Karen Graves’ homemade recipe has grown into one of Chapel Hill’s sweetest success stories. More family members have joined in on the fun, helping the small business that makes buttery toffee coated in dark chocolate and pecans. There’s even a delicious coffee version! 

PHOTO COURTESY OF VIDERI CHOCOLATE FACTORY

Chapel Hill Toffee

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Discover the flavors of the region, from time-tested standbys to new favorites PHOTO BY BAXTER MILLER

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any restaurants begin with a concept or menu, but the bold, colorful Big Cat started a little differently: with a building at the corner of Brookside Drive and Glascock Street in Raleigh. “[My partners and I] all live close and have seen it change hands over the last 10 years,” says co-owner and executive chef Cheetie Kumar. When the opportunity became available, the timing felt right. “We didn’t go looking for it. It came to us.”

The location determined everything about the eatery’s direction. “The [East Mordecai] neighborhood needed a concept that bridged the gap between a restaurant that is approachable and scratches the itch of a ‘corner neighborhood spot,’” she says. The community response has affirmed that. “The support has been wildly positive and more than we could have even imagined.”

She also encourages folks to come with an open mind. “This is not a cookie-cutter restaurant,” Cheetie says, in large part because of the perspectives each partner brings to the table. She and her partners, Justin Pasfield, Marshall Davis, Angela Salamanca and Paul Siler, chose to celebrate the global south with each dish. The menu is stacked with dishes that blend recipes from the American South with flavors from Asia and Latin America, like duck fat chicken wings glazed in harissa honey, spicy pork belly stewed Filipino style and cornbread served with curry leaf butter, all prepared with fresh local ingredients and served with a side of whimsy.

EAT & DRINK

Big Cat partners Justin Pasfield, Marshall Davis, Cheetie Kumar, Angela Salamanca and Paul Siler.

PHOTO COURTESY OF BIG CAT

NEW& NOTEWORTHY Fresh foodie destinations worth a visit

By Morgan Cartier Weston

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The sense of joy and whimsy that drive Big Cat’s menu is also palpable in the brightly decorated interiors.

PHOTO BY BAXTER MILLER

Botiwalla by Chai Pani Chef Meherwan Irani’s menu is inspired by the late-night Irani cafes of his childhood in India, featuring charcoal-grilled kababs, smoky lamb burgers and beloved Chai Pani chaats, all wrapped up in a lively, casual format at Raleigh Iron Works.

Co-founders Meherwan and Molly Irani were 2026 finalists for the James Beard Outstanding Restaurateur award. (Turn the page for more award-winning food!)

M Hansik The classic Korean fare that shaped chef Mike Lee’s childhood gets an elevated treatment at this Wye Junction spot in Durham. Enjoy rice and noodle dishes with a side of kimchi dumplings or sashimi.

Cheeni Indian Emporium at Hub RTP Preeti Waas and daughter Amy Waas expanded their homestyle Indian concept to Research Triangle Park in late 2025, creating a beautiful space that feels like gathering around the family table for lunch, a drink or a hearty evening meal.

EAT & DRINK

The menu is also a celebration STIL L TO COME of North Carolina The Big Cat team agriculture. “Lots of isn’t stopping with people here dedicate the restaurant – they have plans to add a their life to growing neighborhood market and produce, nurturing expanded hours later in quality meats, fish and 2026. “We’re a work in progress,” Cheetie says, poultry, and offering “so keep an eye out for excellent sustainable announcements.” ingredients,” she says.

Cheetie and Big Cat’s chef de cuisine, Zachary Massery, love cooking with local produce and working with regional purveyors to stock the pantry. “[It] has been really fun and inspiring,” she says.

Cheetie says it’s also what makes the Triangle a great place to operate a restaurant.

“We get the benefit of the fertile and agricultural parts of North Carolina with a population that’s growing every day – with people of diverse backgrounds who are interested in eating adventurously.”

That adventurous spirit is also what drives Big Cat’s aesthetic. “It’s a bold, bright, fun environment – in colors, flavors and vibes,” she says. “We are serious about making sure guests are happy while inserting joy and a little fun in everything we do.” TW

PHOTO BY TIM ROBISON

PHOTO BY BAXTER MILLER

SPOTS TO TRY

Coming Soon!

a Tavolo

Chatham County chef Greg Lewis is bringing an Italian eatery to Mosaic at Chatham Park in 2026 (read more about this neighborhood on page 74). “Get ready for a true taste of Italy in the heart of Pittsboro,” Greg says. A Tavolo will feature wood-fired pizza, housemade pasta, a full bar and fresh, locally sourced ingredients – all crafted to bring the warmth and flavor of an authentic Italian table to the community.

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SEEING STARS

GIORGIOS BAKATSIAS

Nikos; Parizade; Vin Rouge; Naos; Local 22; Rosewater; Nasher Museum Café Giorgios Bakatsias received Michelin Recommended recognition for Nikos, his upscale Mediterranean concept.

The restaurateur has been a fixture of Durham’s dining scene for decades, and was inspired by the flavors of Greece and the broader Mediterranean region for this Brightleaf Square spot. The menu features fresh seafood, grilled meats, house-made pastas and vibrant vegetable-forward dishes. The airy dining room combines contemporary elegance with old-world warmth, creating a destination for both special occasions and everyday indulgence.

OSCAR DIAZ

Little Bull; Aaktun Coffee + Bar; TaTaco Chef Oscar Diaz has quickly become one of Durham’s most celebrated culinary voices. A twotime James Beard Award nominee, Oscar earned Michelin Recommended recognition in 2025 for Little Bull, his inventive Durham restaurant that showcases what he calls “pocho cuisine” – a deeply personal blend of Mexican heritage, Midwestern influences and Southern ingredients.

The menu is playful and unexpected, featuring dishes that combine fine-dining technique with comfort-food familiarity. Located in Durham’s Old Five Points neighborhood, Little Bull offers an energetic, colorful atmosphere that mirrors Oscar’s creative approach to food.

PHOTO BY JOHN MICHAEL SIMPSON

Meet the chefs bringing Michelin nods and national recognition to our towns

CHRIS GARRETT, BRAD WEDDINGTON & GRAHAM WEDDINGTON

MATT KELLY

Nana’s; Vin Rouge; Mateo; Mothers & Sons Chef-restaurateur Matt Kelly earned Michelin Recommended recognition for his reimagination of beloved Durham institution Nana’s. The menu blends southern ingredients with European influences, offering elegant dishes built around seasonal produce, seafood and expertly prepared meats. The dining room strikes a balance between polished and approachable, reflecting Matt’s longstanding philosophy of hospitality-driven dining. Through his family of restaurants, he continues to shape Durham’s nationally recognized culinary identity.

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EAT & DRINK

Poole’s Diner; Death and Taxes; Bridge Club James Beard Award-winning chef Ashley Christensen added another accolade to her storied career when Poole’s Diner earned Michelin Recommended recognition. Widely regarded as one of the restaurants that helped spark Raleigh’s culinary renaissance, Poole’s serves elevated comfort food rooted in Southern traditions. Chalkboard menus change frequently, but guests can always expect thoughtful ingredients, impeccable technique and the restaurant’s famous macaroni au gratin. The lively downtown diner atmosphere remains as welcoming today as when it opened in 2007.

PAUL GAGNE

The Fearrington House Restaurant

Seraphine

At Seraphine, Executive Chef Chris Garrett partners with restaurateurs Brad Weddington and Graham Weddington to bring modern Louisiana cuisine to Durham’s American Tobacco Campus. Michelin inspectors recognized the restaurant for its thoughtful interpretation of Cajun and Creole traditions, showcased through dishes like gumbo, barbecue shrimp, seasonal seafood and fresh Gulf-inspired fare. Housed in a beautifully designed space with warm hospitality and refined cocktails, Seraphine feels equally suited for a celebratory dinner or a leisurely weekend brunch.

ASHLEY CHRISTENSEN

The Seraphine team: director of operations Megan Weddington, owner Brad Weddington, general manager Dana Leonard, owner Graham Weddington and executive chef Chris Garrett.

The Fearrington House Restaurant, nestled within the idyllic Fearrington Village, continues to top lists for fine dining in North Carolina. Under the leadership of Executive Chef Paul Gagne, the restaurant earned Michelin Recommended recognition for its elegant tasting menus, impeccable service and luxurious atmosphere.

Seasonal ingredients sourced from local farms shine in beautifully executed dishes that have made Fearrington a destination for decades.

PHOTO BY JEFFREY MINNISH

that blends contemporary American cuisine with artistic presentation and hyperseasonal ingredients, many sourced from the property’s own gardens. Michelin inspectors were impressed by the restaurant’s precision, creativity and consistency, which are showcased through both tasting menus and a la carte offerings.

DREW MAYKUTH Stanbury

For more than a decade, Stanbury has brought chef-driven, global-inspired plates to Raleigh’s Blount Street, and Michelin inspectors took notice.

Known for its ever-changing menu of wood-fired meats, seafood and vegetable dishes, the restaurant embraces a no-reservations model that rewards spontaneity. The intimate, bustling dining room and open kitchen create a lively energy, while the menu’s creativity and precision keep diners returning again and again.

PHOTO BY FORREST MASON

CHUN SHI

PHOTO BY JOHN MICHAEL SIMPSON

Jolie; Crawford and Son; Brodeto; Crawford Brothers Steakhouse; Sous Terre Few chefs have had a larger impact on the Triangle’s dining scene than James Beard Award semifinalist Scott Crawford. His restaurant portfolio continues to grow, with recent openings including Brodeto, which offers elegant southern Italian and Croatian fare; Sous Terre, an underground cocktail club; and Crawford Brothers Steakhouse, featuring prime dry-aged steaks. But Michelin inspectors recognized Jolie, his French-inspired neighborhood restaurant in Raleigh’s Oakwood district, for its combination of classic French techniques with North Carolina ingredients, serving dishes like steak frites, seafood towers and seasonal specialties in a stylish, intimate setting.

STEVEN DEVEREAUX GREENE

Herons Located inside The Umstead Hotel and Spa, Herons has long been considered one of the Southeast’s premier dining experiences. Executive Chef Steven Devereaux Greene oversees a menu

Part brewery, part dim sum house, part book store and part floral shop, Brewery Bhavana provides a distinctive dining experience within Raleigh’s food landscape. Led by chef Chun Shi, the Michelin Recommended establishment serves shareable plates inspired by Chinese cuisine alongside award-winning craft beer. Signature dishes include soup dumplings, Peking duck and inventive seasonal specials. The lush interior, filled with books, flowers and natural light, continues to make Brewery Bhavana a favorite for locals and visitors alike.

NICK & BRYCE DAMPF Dampf Good BBQ

Brothers Nick Dampf and Bryce Dampf earned Michelin Recommended recognition for their Cary smokehouse, which specializes in Texas-style barbecue. Guests line up for expertly smoked brisket, ribs, turkey and house-made sides, all prepared with meticulous attention to detail. Despite national recognition, the restaurant maintains a laid-back, community-focused atmosphere that feels true to its neighborhood roots.

SUNNY GERHART AND KEITH RHODES St. Roch Fine Oysters + Bar

Named after the patron saint of New Orleans, St. Roch brings Gulf Coast flavors to downtown Raleigh. Chef-owner Sunny Gerhart and partner Keith Rhodes have created a seafood-centric destination known for fresh oysters, crudos, seafood towers and Southern coastal classics.

Michelin Recommended recognition highlights the restaurant’s commitment to quality ingredients, warm hospitality and a lively atmosphere that feels equally suited for happy hour or a celebratory dinner.

Tamasha Modern Indian

Chef Bhavin Chhatwani continues to garner national attention, earning both a James Beard Award semifinalist nod and Michelin Recommended recognition for Tamasha Modern Indian. Located in North Hills, Tamasha presents bold, contemporary interpretations of Indian cuisine, balancing traditional flavors with modern techniques. Dishes range from elevated street-food-inspired bites to richly layered curries, all served in a vibrant, upscale setting that has become one of Raleigh’s hottest reservations. TW

B IB S GOURMA ND These spots earned Michelin nods for providing exceptional food at a reasonable price Prime Barbecue James Beard Award semifinalist Christopher Prieto’s Texas-style barbecue, crafted with painstaking attention to technique and tradition, has earned the Knightdale smokehouse a devoted following across the state.

EAT & DRINK

SCOTT CRAWFORD

Brewery Bhavana

BHAVIN CHHATWANI

Sam Jones BBQ A fourth-generation pitmaster, Sam Jones carries one of North Carolina’s most celebrated barbecue legacies. Michelin inspectors awarded Sam Jones BBQ a Bib Gourmand distinction for its authentic Eastern North Carolina whole-hog barbecue, cooked low and slow over wood in Raleigh.

Mala Pata Molino + Cocina Chef-restaurateur Angela Salamanca opened Mala Pata in 2025, bringing a masa-driven menu rooted in Latin American traditions to Raleigh. Housemade tortillas, heirloom corn from Oaxaca and vibrant seafood-forward dishes showcase Angela’s commitment to authenticity and innovation.

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MEALS THAT MATTER Chefs, restaurateurs and foodfocused nonprofits are harnessing the power of hospitality to combat hunger, support families and strengthen communities

By Morgan Cartier Weston Photography by John Michael Simpson

EAT & DRINK

TURNING SURPLUS INTO SUSTENANCE

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hef Sera Cuni remembers staring into refrigerators full of food during the early days of the pandemic and wondering what would become of it.

Restaurants across North Carolina closed abruptly, and like many operators, Sera and her wife, Susan White, faced the prospect of discarding ingredients while their neighbors struggled to put food on the table.

“We just started making soup and other meals out of what was left and donating it to CORA Food Pantry,” Sera says.

An emergency response eventually evolved into something much bigger. In August 2023, the couple launched Feed-Well Fridges, a nonprofit dedicated to reducing both food insecurity and food waste through a network of publicly accessible community refrigerators and freezers.

The mission addresses a troubling contradiction. “People are going hungry today when a staggering amount of food is wasted,” Sera says.

Feed-Well reports that it has recovered and redistributed nearly 330,000 pounds of edible

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AROUND THE TABLE

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Sera Cuni, pictured left, prepares thoughtful dishes like this smoky grilled eggplant. Coated in gluten-free panko and sesame seeds and garnished with artichoke, olive, tomatoes and pea shoots, this vegetarian dish is served over a charred lemon vinaigrette.

Marketing Director Eric Armitage, who transformed his curiosity and creativity into a key leadership position. Executive Chef Kyle Fletcher began his career with the company at Wye Hill before advancing to lead the kitchen at Glasshouse.

Kyle claimed victories in two cooking competitions earlier in 2026: at Chef Rival in Rocky Mount, which celebrates North Carolina agriculture and benefits Ripe for Revival’s efforts to combat food insecurity through mobile markets, food distributions and other community-driven initiatives, and Cooking for the Kids in Raleigh, which raises funds for programs that provide nutritious meals and opportunties for children in Wake County (turn the page to learn more about the latter!)

Sara’s commitment to empowering others reaches beyond her own businesses. “One of the most ironic parts of being an entrepreneur and restaurateur is how lonely I have felt at times,” she says. A desire for connection led her to build relationships with a strong network of female restaurant leaders across the Triangle who offer encouragement, mentorship and camaraderie.

Through her podcast, “Her Seat at the Table,” Sara explores leadership, entrepreneurship and the unique challenges women face in hospitality. Guests have included Tiffany Welton, owner of RBF, Your Authentic Champagne Bar in Cary, and Ashley Malinowski, vice president of Early Bird Night Owl, which manages hotels and restaurants including The Durham Hotel, The Mayton and upcoming hot spot The Gables, a restored historic motorlodge in the heart of Raleigh.

“There are so many women in positions of leadership in restaurants,” she says, noting that wasn’t always the case. 

EAT & DRINK

food since the organization launched. Volunteers collect surplus food from farms, grocery stores, restaurants and caterers, ensuring it reaches families instead of landfills. Feed-Well has also prepared and delivered more than 86,500 chefcrafted meals to residents who may lack the ability or resources to cook for themselves.

Statistics tell part of the story, but the human connections behind them keep Sera motivated.

“Last month, we met a mother at our monthly free community meal who was so grateful because she hadn’t had a hot meal in three weeks,” she says. “That hits you hard and quickly reminds you of all the benefits and privileges we take for granted daily.”

The nonprofit’s environmental impact is equally significant. Feed-Well reduces methane emissions by diverting food waste from landfills, helping to preserve the resources required to grow, transport and prepare food.

The organization’s next chapter is ambitious.

Feed-Well is seeking a permanent operational hub with expanded refrigeration, storage and kitchen space. A partnership with Goodwill Industries of Eastern North Carolina could eventually grow the current network of six community fridges to 57 locations across the region.

Sera and Susan also continue to operate both The Root Cellar in Chapel Hill and Café Root Cellar in Pittsboro. The restaurants reflect the same values that guide Feed-Well: thoughtful hospitality, local sourcing and a commitment to community.

“We’ve always believed restaurants can be more than places to eat,” Sera says. “They are gathering spaces that reflect and strengthen the communities around them.”

rowing up in Raleigh, Sara Abernethy loved crossing the Boylan Bridge and gazing out at the city skyline.

“It was always such a special, romantic spot,” she recalls. Years later, after pursuing careers in music and theater on both coasts, Sara returned home with her husband, Chris Borreson, and found herself unexpectedly stepping into the restaurant industry – but with a familiar sightline. The couple purchased the former Boylan Bridge Brewpub and founded Wye Hill Kitchen & Brewing in 2019, transforming the beloved Raleigh gathering place while preserving its iconic view.

“What a time to open a restaurant,” she says with a laugh.

The pandemic arrived almost immediately, testing the resilience of every hospitality business. Wye Hill’s expansive outdoor spaces became a refuge for guests seeking connection during an uncertain time.

Sara and Chris later expanded their footprint with Glasshouse Kitchen in Research Triangle Park. The restaurant offers a more elevated dining experience while maintaining the same commitment to fostering community.

Success, however, isn’t measured solely in food and beverage sales. The most rewarding part, Sara says, has been watching team members grow.

“To have seen these incredible talented people come on in entry-level roles and develop year after year into powerhouse professionals has been amazing,” she says.

She points to leaders like Glasshouse Kitchen General Manager Erin Morrissey, who started as a server at Wye Hill, and

Enjoy Wye Hill’s brews on tap at the restaurant, or find its canned beers and new Tree Time THC seltzers at area Total Wine locations.

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SERVING A GREATER PURPOSE

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ooking for the Kids offers an irresistible

EAT & DRINK

Sara Abernethy, co-founder of Wye Hill Hospitality, is dedicated to equality for her employees, patrons and women working in restaurants throughout the country.

That spirit inspired Wye Hill’s annual “When There Are Nine” collaboration brew, named for a famous Ruth Bader Ginsburg quote and created by women on the brewery team. “RBG was asked, ‘When will there be enough women on the Supreme Court?’ and her answer was, ‘When there are nine,’” Sara says. “We loved that.”

Proceeds from sales of the beer benefit local women’s groups like The No Woman, No Girl Initiative.

Wye Hill also partners with organizations like Children’s Flight of Hope, which provides flights for children battling serious illnesses; the Southern Smoke Foundation, which supports food and beverage industry workers facing emergencies; and the LGBT Center of Raleigh.

Today, Sara continues to innovate through ventures such as Wye Hill’s Tree Time THC seltzers,helping shape the region’s fast-growing culinary reputation. “This is an exciting time because the Triangle’s restaurants are no longer chasing after other markets,” she says. “We are now on the same level, competing with them.”

Hospitality, Sara says, is ultimately about creating spaces where people celebrate milestones, gather with loved ones and feel connected – a mission that remains as meaningful to her today as the inspirational skyline view she admired as a child.

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wherever needs arise. Recent initiatives have included combination for Triangle food lovers: Hurricane Helene disaster relief, support for families acclaimed local chefs, spirited competition transitioning out of homelessness and investments in and six-course dinners packed with surprises. Behind healthier school meals. the secret ingredients and friendly rivalry lies a much One of the group’s most ambitious efforts is taking deeper purpose. shape at RISE Charter School in southeast Raleigh. A The annual event benefits Overflowing Hands, $75,000 matching grant awarded in 2026 is helping the a volunteer-led nonprofit that supports vulnerable school transition from highly processed packaged foods children and families while fighting to a chef-led scratch kitchen that will food insecurity across North serve more than 500 students.

Carolina and beyond.

The project reflects the MA RK YOUR Each tournament round pits nonprofit’s broader philosophy: CA LENDA R two chefs against each other in a Nutritious food can improve health, Plan to attend the next culinary showdown. Guests and learning outcomes and overall Cooking for the Kids: judges sample appetizers, entrees quality of life. Every ticket purchase Round 1 Feb. 15-18, 2027 and desserts before voting for and auction bid funds programs Round 2 Feb. 24-25, 2027 Finale March 4, 2027 the chef who advances. Silent that provide fresh food, leadership auctions, bourbon raffles and a development opportunities, camps strong sense of community spirit and educational experiences add to the experience. for children.

The competition entertains, but its impact is Overflowing Hands operates entirely through meaningful and far-reaching. volunteers, allowing proceeds to flow directly back into Overflowing Hands emerged as a key partner in the community. In a region celebrated for culinary hunger-relief efforts during the pandemic, working talent, Cooking for the Kids demonstrates how chefs alongside organizations including Rocky Top Catering can use their skills not only to delight diners, but also to and US Foods to provide meals for families facing food create meaningful change for children and families who insecurity. Today, the nonprofit continues to respond need it most. TW

O N E PLATE AT A TIME For more than a decade, Chefs for Change has showcased the power of Durham’s culinary community to unite around a common cause.

Part fine dining experience and part fundraiser, the annual series benefits Families Moving Forward, a Durham nonprofit dedicated to helping families experiencing homelessness achieve long-term stability.

The concept is simple but powerful.

Acclaimed local chefs donate their time and talent to create memorable meals while guests contribute through ticket purchases, auctions and direct giving.

These efforts generated nearly $300,000 for Families Moving Forward in 2025. The signature gala featured a multicourse dinner prepared by some of Durham’s most celebrated chefs, including Matt Kelly, Aaron Benjamin, Gray Brooks, Michael Lee and Chris McLaurin, while the event’s spring mixer offers a more casual introduction, pairing small plates from local restaurants with games, networking and opportunities to learn more about the organization’s work.

The 2026 season continued that tradition in June with Raisin’ the Roof, a retro-inspired block party that celebrated food, community and connection. The annual gala and auction on Nov. 5, 2026, will once again spotlight the talent that has helped make Durham one of the South’s most exciting culinary destinations.

Every dish served and every paddle raised helps Families Moving Forward support parents and children navigating homelessness. Funding provides resources that assist families in securing stable housing, building financial independence and creating brighter futures. In a city known for its dynamic food scene, Chefs for Change reminds diners that great food can nourish far more than the people gathered around the table.

STAY, DINE,

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EAT & DRINK

EXPERIENCES TO SAVOR Enjoy some friendly competition with your favorite person at these adventurous spots

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By Katrina McLean | Photography by Erin Woodiel

DRIVE SHACK + PUTTERY

SMASH SOCIAL CLUB

Raleigh

S

Raleigh

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levate your next date night at Smash Social Club, where drinks, dining and a little friendly competition come together high above Glenwood Avenue. Challenge one other to table tennis, beer pong, electric darts or shuffleboard – games run $8-$20 per hour – while soaking in the lively rooftop playground atmosphere. Or, take advantage of the date night special, which includes two signature drinks, a shareable appetizer, pizza or sliders, and 30 minutes of gameplay on any game for $55. Craft cocktails and shareable bites can be delivered right to your table, so you never have to pause the fun.

Be sure to reserve ahead to lock in your table and your favorite game.

pend a few hours perfecting your swing at Drive Shack, a three-story high-tech driving range just minutes from downtown Raleigh and an easy trip from Durham. Challenge your other half to interactive golf games at your private bay then explore everything the venue has to offer, from mini golf to a rooftop terrace and lounge. With multiple bars, craft cocktails and a full menu delivered to your spot, you won’t want to leave. Reserve ahead of time to secure your bay (especially for half-price Wednesdays), prices range from $25-$55 per hour. 

LEFT Enjoy hearty appetizers, like wings and flatbreads, to fuel your game.

4 TIPS & TRICKS

ABOVE Grab a drink at Smash Social Club’s delightful disco bar.

GRAB YOUR GEAR

Invite your significant other or a few friends and book a golf bay time slot that works for you.

Drive Shack has plenty of clubs to choose from, so pick one that suits your swing style.

TAKE A SWING

CLAIM YOUR TITLE

Choose from virtual courses, mini golf and target practicestyle games to create the perfect level of friendly competition.

Bragging rights are at stake, so use Drive Shack’s TrackMan app to keep up with your score and ball paths from one visit to the next.

EAT & DRINK

RESERVE A BAY

Grab a paddle and dive into a friendly match of table tennis, where three illuminated tables take center stage and nearby TVs keep the pro sports action in view.

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BOXCAR BAR & ARCADE Raleigh and Durham

T

The Pit

or tapas at Barcelona Wine Bar before

EAT & DRINK

heading over to Boxcar’s Raleigh location.

THE BAXTER Carrboro

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he Baxter’s nerd-chic vibe

sets the stage for a memorable evening with more than 50 vintage and original arcade games.

See if you can beat each other’s high score surrounded by a playful mix of pop art, TV and movie props, and nostalgic collectibles that make every corner worth exploring. Grab a drink from the full bar and settle into the outdoor patio between rounds. Nearby, check out Franklin Motors for a beer and a bite from its on-site food truck or Al’s Burger Shack for TripAdvisor’s “best burger in America.”

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ANDRETTI INDOOR KARTING & GAMES Durham

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hether you’re racing around the high-speed indoor karting track, battling one another in laser tag, knocking down pins at the bowling lanes or exploring the expansive arcade and virtual reality attractions, Andretti Indoor Karting & Games packs hours of entertainment under one roof. When it’s time to refuel, the full-service restaurant serves everything from shareable appetizers and flatbreads to burgers, entrees and decadent desserts, alongside signature cocktails, mocktails and a wide selection of beer.

PHOTO BY JOHN MICHAEL SIMPSON

urn date night into a playful competition at Boxcar Bar & Arcade, where you will find classic and modern arcade games and pinball machines.

Sip a craft beer or cocktail between rounds of Skee-Ball, foosball and air hockey, then catch outdoor live music on weekends. Visit the downtown Durham location for outdoor games like cornhole and ping pong while you share a pickle pizza (trust us). Or, start your evening in downtown Raleigh with barbecue at

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF ANDRETTI INDOOR KARTING & GAMES DURHAM

THE PLANT Pittsboro

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raving a date night that feels unstructured and effortlessly unique? Head to The Plant in Pittsboro, where every corner offers something new to discover together. Start with a craft cocktail at Fair Game Beverage Company or share a tasting at Starrlight Mead or BMC Brewing before wandering through art studios, gardens and cozy gathering spaces.

Grab dinner from one of the vibrant food spots like Kingston 99 Kitchen or Ta Contento, then catch live music under the stars and twinkling lights.

Chef Jason Rhoden founded Kingston 99 Kitchen to bring the flavors of Jamaica to the Triangle.

From award-winning gin and small-batch bourbon to locally inspired whiskey and handcrafted cocktails, these Triangle distilleries raise the bar on North Carolina liquors Durham Distillery

The craft gin and liqueur distillery combines traditional gin-making techniques with modern chemistry to create both classic and contemporary spirits. Under the flagship name, Conniption, its gins are among the most-awarded craft gins distilled in the U.S. The distillery also operates its adjacent cocktail bar, Conniption Bar & Lounge. Visit the distillery on Washington Street in Durham, or pass the time before you board your flight at the bar’s Raleigh-Durham International Airport location.

Fair Game Beverage Company Wander down Lorax Lane in Pittsboro and

uncover a delightful range of North Carolina-

AN AMERICAN BRASSERIE

PHOTO COURTESY OF DURHAM DISTILLERY

SPIRITED AWAY inspired whiskey, vodka and gin. We’re big fans of the Wild Foraged Black Walnut Whiskey, a smooth, small-batch libation steeped with local walnuts.

Liberty & Plenty Distillery

Enjoy unique takes on classic expressions of vodka, gin, rum and whiskey that blend tradition and experience with innovation. Liberty & Plenty was founded in March 2020 as a 100% womanowned craft distillery, and operates a modern bar on downtown Durham’s Foster Street.

Mystic Farm & Distillery Founded in 2013, Mystic Farm & Distillery

crafts award-winning spirits using grain

UP-TEMPO TIKI LOUNGE

Indulge in a refreshing spritz at Conniption Bar & Lounge.

grown on its 22-acre Durham County farm and water sourced from an on-site aquifer.

Home to the Triangle’s first bourbon distillery since Prohibition, the distillery produces handcrafted bourbon, whiskey and specialty spirits that showcase the Piedmont’s unique terroir. Visitors can enjoy tastings, tours and seasonal events while experiencing the farm where every bottle begins.

Weldon Mills Distillery

This downtown Durham location serves its small-batch bourbon plus craft cocktails made with the distillery’s whiskey, vodka, gin and flavored liquors. Weldon Mills is the official spirit of the Durham Bulls. TW

DURHAM ’S FUN BAR! EAT & DRINK

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BEST OF DURHAM 2026

BARVIRGILE.COM

 @BAR_VIRGILE_DURHAM

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A Closer Look at

FENTON

By Caleb LeJeune | Photography by John Michael Simpson

C

ARTS & CULTURE

ary’s Fenton community is equal parts shopping destination and foodie haven.

This Wake County wonderland is home to a luxury movie theater, a dozen delicious must-visit restaurants and more than 20 shops and boutiques, from clothing and jewelry to home decor and entertaining essentials.

Elevate your accessory collection with a dazzling personalized piece from Bailey’s Fine Jewelry.

Bailey’s expansive inventory features everything from rings and necklaces to pendants and watches, offering customers endless ways to layer high-end and casual pieces.

Ready to step up your skin care routine?

Face Foundrié’s state-of-the-art services, affordable prices and hands-on team of professionals make beauty a breeze, whether you’re looking for facials, chemical peels, brow waxes or lash lifts. Or, take a class at YogaSix to glow from the inside out.

Want to keep the fun going without leaving the building? Head downstairs and catch the game on a 30-foot screen at Sports & Social or check bull riding off your bucket list at PBR Cowboy Bar. TW

Not only is M Sushi open for lunch and dinner every day of the week, it’s also the Triangle’s first sushi restaurant dedicated to exclusively sourcing high-quality, seasonal seafood. Its small, intentional menu features fresh ingredients sourced directly from Japan, Korea and Hawaii – blending traditional Japanese cuisine with Peruvian and Spanish influences.

Worn out after all that retail therapy? Grab a booth and make yourself at home at Dram & Draught’s Fenton location – where your go-to neighborhood hangout meets your new favorite cocktail bar. Order a sandwich, salad, flatbread or a shareable plate (we recommend the Italian grinder panini) to go with your drink of choice; Dram & Draught offers a curated list of both seasonal and signature cocktails, plus wine, THC and spirit-free concoctions.

Looking for a drink with a view? Head to “The Backyard” and order a beer and a plate of dim sum, or head next door to explore the craft beer menu and relaxing patio vibes at Brewery Bhavana.

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Invite your friends and settle into a scenic afternoon or evening at AVA Rooftop Bar, Fenton’s dreamiest overlook. This openair libation station is open Wednesday through Sunday, serving up wine, draft beer and cocktails, plus scrumptious small bites like togarashi toffee popcorn, housemade guacamole and warm crab dip.

Coming Soon Here’s what’s coming to Fenton next: Barouk Eastern Mediterranean Unforgettable movie viewing is all about immersion – so why not do it in style?

Fenton’s Paragon Theaters offers moviegoers a plethora of ideal viewing experiences, including large-format projection with Axis15 Extreme, zero-gravity seating with Lux Box Dine-In, live sports with Director’s Room and even sensoryfriendly films, perfect for any child. Don’t forget to explore Paragon’s extensive menu, including burgers, pizza and cocktails, plus craft beer and custom made-toorder MyPi pizzas.

Sweet Paris Crêperie & Café The Pagemore Hotel

ARTS & CULTURE: A CLOSER LOOK AT. . .

Experience Live

DPAC truly has “something for everyone,” hosting up to 600,000 guests per year with 250 plus performances.

Every season, the stage at DPAC comes alive with spectacular Broadway productions, the very best of concerts and comedy, family shows, and special events of all kinds.

Find Tickets at

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SIXTY VINES

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he North Hills eatery launched a new brunch menu this spring that drew inspiration from wine country recipes from all over the world. Those who go for something sweeter to start their day will have to pick between the carrot cake pancakes and the pistachio and spiced cherry French toast. Some of the other standout items include a brunch board featuring smoked salmon and candied bacon, plus classics like the winemaker’s breakfast (think sunny-side eggs, hash browns and sausage) and an egg white frittata. All of the shareable dishes with bold flavors pair perfectly with the 60 wines on tap or, of course, a little caffeine.

EAT & DRINK

RISE &DINE Brunch: the best way to start the day

By Jessica Stringer

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CROSSROADS BARROOM & RESTAURANT

SMALL CAFE B&B

ou’re going to need a game plan for Sunday brunch at The Carolina Inn’s Crossroads Barroom & Restaurant. Here’s how to do it right: First, order a refreshing Hugo spritz or a coffee – or heck, it’s brunch, do both! Before you even lift a serving spoon, take a lap around the buffet-style spread, perusing the breakfast and lunch offerings that range from waffles and made-to-order omelets to mac-and-cheese and pork. Fill your plate with whatever strikes your fancy, and don’t forget about the scones, muffins and pastries!

There’s no shame in going back for seconds – the cinnamon buns topped with cream cheese icing keep us craving just one more. A walk around UNC’s campus afterward rounds out the experience.

ucky you – breakfast is included in your stay at Pittsboro’s Small Cafe B&B on mornings the cafe is open. Set that alarm and skip sleeping in – the delicious offerings range from classic eggs Benedict and quiche to steel-cut oatmeal. Don’t miss French toast made with cinnamon swirl bread from The Bread Shop or the signature lemon-ricotta pancakes, famous for a reason!

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PHOTO COURTESY OF SIXTY VINES

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ALCOVE

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estled inside The Gables – a

VIDRIO

launched a new brunch menu this spring. Tuck into savory standouts like eggs Benedict with za’atar home fries, lamb hash with sunnyside eggs or an omelet with spinach, mushroom and feta. And don’t forget the pistachio baklava French toast made with a phyllo crisp and Chantilly cream.

Guests can pair dishes with creative cocktails, including a rotating spritz and a tableside brunch punch serving four to six people made with Aviation gin, lemon juice, sumac syrup, maraschino liqueur and sparkling wine.

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runch starts early – 7 a.m. on both Saturday and Sunday – at The Casso hotel’s onsite restaurant Good Day Good Night, so set the right tone with a honey cinnamon latte or a fresh-squeezed OJ. The eatery offers a curated menu of both sweet and savory selections, plus fun drink specialties.

The fluffy French toast – topped with bruleed marshmallow fluff, wild berry compote, toasted almonds and salted caramel – leaves a lasting impression. Or try the chorizo potato hash with queso fresco and pickled Fresno chiles. Round out your meal with a spirited beverage, like the strawberry gelato cone cocktail made with vanilla vodka, pomegranate liqueur and vanilla ice cream.

PHOTO BY JOHN MICHAEL SIMPSON

PHOTO BY RICHARD BARLOW

Glenwood South

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he stunning Mediterranean restaurant on

restored 1920s roadside lodge reimagined as a boutique retreat in Raleigh’s historic Mordecai neighborhood – Alcove is shaping up to be a destination in its own right. Beginning in fall 2026, the all-day eatery invites guests to linger from morning through evening, whether that means grabbing a coffee and pastry at breakfast or settling in for something more leisurely later in the day. The menu takes cues from a European picnic spread: classic charcuterie, tinned fish, fresh vegetable crudités, dried fruits and best of all, rotating cakes of the week. TW

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TO MARKET Shop for local produce, flowers, honey and more at one of our region’s many farmers markets CHAT H A M CO UN T Y

Cary Farmers Market Saturdays, 8 a.m.-noon

Chatham Mills Farmers Market Saturdays,

(April-October); 9 a.m.-noon (November-March).

160 E. Park St., Cary; caryfarmersmarket.com

8 a.m.-noon (April-October); 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

(November-January). 480 Hillsboro St., Pittsboro; chathammillsfarmersmarket.com Fearrington Farmers Market Tuesdays,

EAT & DRINK

4-6 p.m. during daylight savings time (March-November) and 3-5 p.m. during the winter. East Camden, Fearrington Village; fearringtonfarmersmarket.com Pittsboro Farmers Market Thursdays,

3-6 p.m. Downtown Pittsboro Pop-Up Park, 50 W. Salisbury St., Pittsboro; thepittsborofarmersmarket.org Briar Chapel Farmers Market

Fridays, 4-6 p.m. 161 Salt Cedar Lane, Chapel Hill; briarchapelfarmers.wixsite.com/ briar-chapel-farmers

Holly Springs Farmers Market Saturdays,

8 a.m.-noon (April-October); 9 a.m.-noon (November-March). 300 W. Ballentine St., Holly Springs; hsfarmersmarket.com Midtown Farmers Market Saturdays, 8 a.m.-

noon (April-October). The Commons, 4191 Main at North Hills St., Raleigh; midtownfarmers.com State Farmers Market Monday-Saturday, 5 a.m.-

7 p.m.; Sunday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. 1201 Agriculture St., Raleigh; ncagr.gov/divisions/marketing/ farmers-markets-agricultural-centers/state-farmersmarket-raleigh Stone Ridge Farm Market Monday-Friday,

10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m.-5p.m.; Sunday, noon-5 p.m. 408 Temple Johnson Rd., Zebulon; facebook.com/stoneridgefarmmarket

WA K E CO UN T Y

Apex Farmers Market Saturdays, 8 a.m.-noon

(April-October); 9 a.m.-noon (NovemberMarch). The Depot, 220 N. Salem St., Apex; apexfarmersmarket.com Black Farmers Market Every second and

fourth Sunday, 1-4 p.m. (April-November).

Montague Plaza, 2718 Rock Quarry Rd., Raleigh; blackfarmersmkt.com

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Downtown Rolesville Farmers Market Saturdays, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. (March-

October). 108 S. Main St., Rolesville; downtownrolesvillefarmersmarket.com Wake Forest Farmers Market Saturdays,

8 a.m.-noon (April-October); 9 a.m.-noon (November-March). 235 S. Taylor St., Wake Forest; wakeforestmarket.org

Western Wake Farmers Market Saturdays,

8 a.m.-noon (April-November); 9:30 a.m.noon (December-March). 101 Town Hall Dr., Morrisville; westernwakefarmersmarket.org DURHA M COUNT Y

Black Farmers Market Every first and third

Sunday, 1-4 p.m. (April-November). Durham Tech Community College, 1637 E. Lawson St., Durham; blackfarmersmkt.com Duke Farmers Market Thursdays, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

(April 23-Oct. 8, 2026, plus a bonus fall market on Oct. 29). Duke Medicine Pavilion Greenway, outside the Trent Semans Center for Health Education, Durham; hr.duke.edu/farmersmarket Durham Farmers Market Saturdays,

8 a.m.-noon (April-November); 9 a.m.-noon (December-March). Wednesdays, 3-6 p.m.

(April-October). 501 Foster St., Durham; durhamfarmersmarket.com South Durham Farmers Market Saturdays,

8 a.m.-noon (April-October); 9 a.m.-noon (November-March). 500 Park Offices Dr., Durham; southdurhamfarmersmarket.org North Durham Farmers Market First and

third Saturdays, noon-4 p.m., and second and fourth Fridays, 3-7 p.m. (April-November). Soul Sanctuary, 1016 Old Oxford Rd., Durham; helenacragg.wixsite.com/my-site-2 ORA NGE COUNT Y

Carrboro Farmers Market Saturdays, 7 a.m.-

Chapel Hill Farmers Market Saturdays,

PHOTO BY JOHN MICHAEL SIMPSON

8 a.m.-noon (April-October); 9 a.m.-noon (November-March). Tuesdays, 3-6 p.m. (AprilNovember). University Place, 201 S. Estes Dr., Chapel Hill in front of Stoney River Steakhouse; thechapelhillfarmersmarket.com Eno River Farmers Market Saturdays, 8 a.m.-

noon (April-November); 9 a.m.-noon (DecemberMarch). 144 E. Margaret Lane, Hillsborough; enoriverfarmersmarket.com TW

The State Farmers Market has more than vegetables – vendors offer local meats, flowers and plants, body care, baked goods and more.

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EAT & DRINK

noon (April-October); 9 a.m.-noon (NovemberMarch). Wednesdays, 3-6 p.m. (April-October); 3-5 p.m. (November). 301 W. Main St., Carrboro; carrborofarmersmarket.com

OUR PICKS FOR U-PICKS Harvest your own berries and shop fresh flowers and produce from these farms and stands

WA KE COUNT Y

For strawberries, check out: Phillips Farms of Cary (it also hosts a fun-filled weekend farmers market!); Buckwheat Farm in Apex; The Collard Patch in Wake Forest; Po Hous Farm in Apex; DJ’s Berry Patch in Apex; Grasshopper Farms NC in Knightdale; Hunts Strawberry Farm in Raleigh; Pope’s Strawberry Farm in Knightdale; and Wrenn’s Farm in Zebulon. We also like Granny Pearls Farm in Zebulon for blueberries, blackberries, peaches, pears, apples, grapes and more; Page Farms in Raleigh for strawberries in the spring and pumpkins in the fall; Polly’s Petal Patch in FuquayVarina for flowers (June through October); Porter Farms & Nursery in both Willow Spring and Raleigh for strawberries, plus pumpkins in the fall; and Ogburn Berries and Produce in Willow Spring for its roadside produce stand, including strawberries, sweet potatoes, soy beans, oats and corn.

The best two hours in Durham start here!

Flavors of the Bull takes you behind the bar and into the heart of the Bull City. Whether you're after craft beer flights and loaded bites on the Drafts of the Bull brewery tour, or cocktails and local history on the Bull City Cocktails walking tour, we've got your perfect Durham weekend plan.

flavorsofthebull.com 919-590-3238 Featured in Midtown Magazine and Triangle Around Town.

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EAT & DRINK

ORA NGE A ND DURHA M COUNTIES

We love blueberries from Bahama Bluebs in Bahama; Cedar Grove Blueberry Farm in Cedar Grove; Hawk Hill Berry Farm in Mebane; and Whitted Bowers Farm in Cedar Grove.

In Hillsborough, find strawberries at Double R Cattle Services, and flowers at Fernrock Farms and Firefly Farm. Visit Herndon Hills Farm in Durham for blueberries, blackberries and muscadine grapes; McAdams Farm in Efland for strawberries and flowers; The Orchard on Little River in Bahama for apples, peaches, Asian pears and blackberries; Parker Farm & Vineyard in Hurdle Mills for muscadine grapes in the fall; Sweet Retreat Orchard in Hillsborough for Asian persimmons; and Waller Family Farm in Durham for strawberries.

CHATHA M COUNT Y

Don’t miss Farrell’s Creek Farm in Apex for blueberries and blackberries; Howard’s Farm & Mema’s Fruit Shack in Pittsboro for a variety of produce, including peaches, corn, tomatoes and cucumbers, plus homemade ice cream (the farm stand also operates as a thrift store and sells vintage home decor!); Phillips Farms of Chatham in Pittsboro for strawberries as well as pumpkins, hay and Christmas trees in the fall; Sweet Little Things Flower Farm in Pittsboro for flowers; and Wild Abandon Farm in Pittsboro for blueberries. TW

WINE DOWN Browse, sip and bring home something special WA K E CO UN T Y

Drink A family-owned wine shop off Glenwood

Rocks + Acid Wine Shop This sunny

Avenue in Raleigh that seeks out small production bottles to stock its intimate tasting space.

wine shop and bar in Chapel Hill’s Southern Village is helmed by awardwinning sommelier Paula de Pano and stocks 300-350 labels as well as cheese, charcuterie and caviar offerings.

tap and wine by the glass in the spacious bar, then take home your favorite bottle from either the Raleigh or Rolesville location.

Red Line Beer & Wine Find a varied wine

selection alongside beer, mead, snacks, seltzers and 24 rotating taps at this bottle shop and bar open seven days a week near NC State University.

Ridgewood Wine & Beer Company Located in Raleigh’s Ridgewood Shopping Center, it

features more than 1,500 bottles and 400 beer options, with nine wines offered by the glass and eight drafts on tap.

Seaboard Wine This independent wine store in Raleigh’s High Park Village has operated in

Raleigh for 25 years and offers more than 1,000 hand-selected bottles along with tastings and food pairings.

The Raleigh Wine Shop This locally owned

shop in downtown Raleigh takes pride in a global wine selection at a variety of price points and friendly, welcoming service.

O RA NG E CO UNT Y

independent wine retailer offers thousands of choices, including rare and allocated bottles from around the world.

Glasshalfull This Carrboro restaurant, known for

its seasonal American cooking focused on glutenfree and vegetarian dishes, also houses a small market and wine shop with exceptional wines, prepared meals, pantry items and more.

Hillsborough Wine Company This sister store

of Chapel Hill Wine Company in downtown Hillsborough features a diverse selection from all over the world.

Leland Little Expect an extensive, curated

catalog of rare fine and aged wines from across the world. Browse the auction house or speak with the wine team for suggestions on expanding your collection.

European-inspired neighborhood spot offering carefully curated cheeses and wines at the intersection of downtown Chapel Hill and Carrboro.

Winestore. Located off East Franklin

Street, this wine shop is bright and easy to navigate to accommodate all wine lovers.

DURHA M COUNT Y

Hope Valley Wine & Beverage

A community-driven neighborhood wine, beer and mixology store.

Enjoy North Carolina wine like you’ve never experienced before at FireClay Cellars – its grapes are specially bred to thrive in our region’s mineral-dense red clay soil.

LouElla Wine, Beer & Beverage

A bottle shop, bar and event space offering curated wine, craft beer and other fortified selections from small and familyoperated producers.

Melanated Wine Owner Lashonda Modest

opened Durham’s first Black-owned winery in October 2021. It offers seven premium varietals: a white sangria, a red blend, a white blend, a riesling, a blackberry wine, plus tasting room events.

Pinheiro This wine bar brings a taste of Portugal

to East Durham by pairing Portuguese wines with speciality wares and provisions.

Wine Authorities A 21st-century wine shop with

locations in Durham and Raleigh focused on small estate wineries. The Durham shop also has a Viv’s Fridge – a smart refrigerator concept by celebrity chef Vivian Howard that offers take-and-bake meals and snacks.

The Wine Cellar This popular south Durham wine shop in Sutton Station offers wine specials,

a calendar of events, weekly tastings and plenty of outdoor seating.

The Wine Feed Wine store and wine bar

offering classes, special orders, deliveries and more, plus dog-friendly outdoor seating. Located on South Roxboro Street in Durham.

ZincHouse Winery & Brewery This 87-acre farm located near Falls Lake is home to a

vineyard, hiking trails and a 2,700-square-foot event space overlooking the Falls Village Golf Club. The main space serves 12 craft beers on tap plus an extensive list of wines from around the world.

CHATHA M COUNT Y

FireClay Cellars Named for the red soil in

Chatham County, the vineyard and winery in Siler City grows its own grapes and produces awardwinning wines on a sunny hillside. Its unique offerings include a chambourcin, a chardonel and a traminette.

Galloway’s Wine & Beer Bar This cozy spot in Fearrington Village combines the atmosphere

of a wine shop with the energy of a lively bar where customers can enjoy a curated selection of distinctive wines and local beers on tap, complemented by an array of small plates.

Vino!! Wine Shop This family-owned shop

features a selection of wines from all over the globe as well as snacks, beer and cigars. Vino!! also hosts popular wine tastings and curated dinners both in-shop and at local restaurants. TW thetriangleweekender.com

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EAT & DRINK

Chapel Hill Wine Company Chapel Hill’s oldest

Wedgewood Cheese Bar An intimate, PHOTO BY JOHN MICHAEL SIMPSON

Greenway Beer and Wine Enjoy craft beer on

RAISE A GLASS EAT & DRINK

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TROPHY BREWING

CAROLINA BREWERY

BURIAL BEER CO.

Raleigh

Pittsboro

RALEIGH BREWING COMPANY

Cloud Surfer is everything you want in an IPA: fresh, hoppy and invigorating, with a bit of haze that tickles the tastebuds. The citrusy notes of candied lime, mango and pineapple help it pair well with fish tacos, or spicier dishes like Thai or Indian curries.

Fans look forward to the spring release of Sky Peach each year, a fruitier version of Carolina Brewery’s flagship Sky Blue, a light, classic German-style kolsch. At 4.8% ABV, Sky Peach is a smooth summer sipper sure to quench your thirst and complement a backyard barbecue.

Find your next favorite local pour

Raleigh

Raleigh

Crafted by womanowned Raleigh Brewing Company, The First Squeeze is a seasonal American wheat ale that remains a local favorite for its crisp, uplifting flavor. Brewed with real blood orange peels in every batch, the easydrinking beer balances subtle sweetness with tangy notes of fresh citrus, making it a perfect companion for warm afternoons.

Crisp, bright and endlessly drinkable, Shadowclock Pilsner proves that classic styles never go out of fashion. This unfiltered brew presents an aroma suggestive of honey and lemon with notes of floral hops and grainy malt, then finishes with a snappy bitterness that keeps every sip refreshing. The lightbodied profile makes it an easy companion for cookouts, porch hangs and just about any occasion that calls for a well-crafted, no-fuss beer.

Photo by John Michael Simpson

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GIZMO BREW WORKS

THIRSTY SKULL BREWING

ATOMIC CLOCK BREWING CO.

FULLSTEAM BREWERY

THE GLASS JUG BEER LAB

Raleigh & Durham

Siler City

Durham

Durham

Durham

Vacation vibes are on tap with Gizmo Brew Works’

Pressure Drop is Thirsty

Movement showcases precision in every pour, earning itself a silver medal in the American Pilsener category at the 2025 Great American Beer Festival.

Flavor notes of honey, Meyer lemon and herbal hops complement its crisp malt character and a clean finish that makes the beer exceptionally refreshing.

At just 5% ABV, this German-inspired pilsner is an easy choice for warmer days or any time crisp lager cravings strike.

Rocket Science blasts

Opacity embraces the hazy IPA style with juicy citrus flavors, ripe tropical fruit aromas and a silky mouthfeel. The Glass Jug layers expressive Citra and Mosaic hops over a soft malt backbone, creating a smooth, full-bodied pour without an aggressive bitterness. Bursting with notes of bright peach, pineapple and orange, this crowd-pleasing beer delivers plenty of hop character while remaining balanced enough for another pint. TW

Mermaid Margarita Sour. This fruited sour ale

delivers bright citrus flavor with a lively tartness and just enough sweetness to evoke a classic margarita – no tequila required.

Seasonal releases are often served at the Raleigh and Durham taprooms with festive touches like Tajin-rimmed glasses and fresh lime wedges.

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Skull Brewing’s flagship New England-style hazy IPA. Crafted with wheat, flaked oats and a blend of Amarillo, Mosaic, El Dorado and Citra hops, it pours soft and juicy with notes of tropical fruit and zesty citrus balanced by a smooth, pillowy finish. Keep an eye out for limited releases of Pressure Drop featuring fruits like mango for an extra burst of flavor. Enjoy a pint at the Pittsboro or Siler City taprooms, or grab a crowler to go.

off with bold citrus aromas before landing on a crisp, balanced finish. Fullsteam packs this American IPA with notes of grapefruit, lemon and pine thanks to a mix of Mosaic, Citra, Centennial and Magnum hops while maintaining moderate bitterness, creating a beer that’s flavorful without overwhelming the palate.

Newly reformulated with lower IBUs, the brew offers an easy-drinking option for hop lovers and curious newcomers alike.

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LATE NIGHT WA K E CO UN T Y

RALEIGH BEER GARDEN With hundreds of beers on tap, Raleigh Beer Garden has become a bucket-list stop for craft beer lovers, with hundreds of beers on tap. The sprawling Glenwood South destination offers multiple indoor and outdoor bars, rooftop seating and an extensive selection of domestic and international brews, along with cocktails and elevated pub fare.

Travelers can now grab a pint before takeoff at Raleigh Beer Garden’s Raleigh-Durham International Airport location, which opened in December 2025. Find local libations and a taste of the Triangle in Terminal 2.

Though bourbon is king at The Crunkleton, other spirits shine in cocktails like the tequilabased Tan Ghost.

Keep the party going with bevs and bites from these creative venues

PHOTO COURTESY OF RALEIGH BEER GARDEN

EAT & DRINK

Stepping through Good Fortune’s moon gate entrance feels like crossing into another city. Inspired by a beloved Los Angeles cocktail bar, the intimate West Franklin Street hideaway The intricate moon door at combines moody lighting, Good Fortune is a welcoming symbol of the cozy experience thoughtful design and that awaits you. inventive cocktails into one of Chapel Hill’s most transportive experiences. Signature drinks like the floral Moonlight Martini and the tropical, spice-kissed Four Sisters showcase the bar’s creative approach while complementing an Asian-inspired menu of shareable plates and late-night eats. Whether you’re tucked into a cozy corner booth or mingling with fellow patrons, Good Fortune captures the kind of sophisticated, spontaneous nightlife often associated with larger cities in the heart of Chapel Hill.

PHOTO BY JESSICA STRINGER

GOOD FORTUNE

Part upscale cocktail lounge, part neighborhood gathering place, The Crunkleton has earned a reputation for one of the Triangle’s most impressive whiskey collections alongside expertly executed classic cocktails. While the drinks draw enthusiasts from across the region, the kitchen is equally deserving of attention. Order a perfectly cooked burger, steak frites or one of the seasonal small plates before settling in with an Old Fashioned or house specialty. The warm wood interiors, leather seating and timeless atmosphere make it just as well suited for date night as a celebratory evening with friends.

PHOTO BY JOHN MICHAEL SIMPSON

THE CRUNKLETON

O RA NG E CO UNT Y

Enjoy a round of mini golf at Hop Shots, adjacent to Raleigh Beer Garden.

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PHOTO BY JOHN MICHAEL SIMPSON

DURHA M COUNT Y

ANNEXE & HIGH DIVE

THE BEND BAR

OLD NORTH BAR

PHOTO BY JULI LEONARD

One of Raleigh’s newest cocktail destinations, The Bend Bar has quickly earned a following for its stylish atmosphere, inventive drinks and welcoming neighborhood feel. The intimate space is the brainchild of the Trophy Brewing team, and blends modern design with warm hospitality. Behind the unique horseshoe-shaped bar, creative seasonal cocktails share the menu with expertly crafted classics, while a selection of shareable bites keeps guests lingering well into the evening.

Whether you’re looking to kick off a night downtown or settle in for a leisurely round of drinks, The Bend offers a fresh addition to Raleigh’s after-hours scene that’s worth seeking out.

The Bend Bar is located inside a historic home, and the intimate oval bar exudes the charm of a bygone era.

The night doesn’t have to end when you leave a show at Motorco or wrap up a night of games at Boxcar. Walk over to Old North Bar for a speakeasy-inspired atmosphere with inventive cocktails and late-night bites. The dim lighting, exposed brick and vintage decor create an inviting setting for lingering conversations over expertly balanced drinks. Snack on elevated bar favorites while sipping a seasonal creation or a perfectly executed classic cocktail. Equal parts neighborhood bar and hidden gem, Old North feels like the kind of place you’ll want to introduce to friends – while secretly hoping it stays under the radar. TW thetriangleweekender.com

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Start your evening at Annexe, a sleek cocktail bar tucked underground on Mangum Street next to Bar Virgile. The intimate space specializes in thoughtfully crafted cocktails with seasonal ingredients, inventive flavor combinations and an ever-changing menu that encourages repeat visits. When you’re ready to shift gears, cross the street to High Dive, where DJs, dancing, themed nights and an energetic crowd keep the party going well into the night.

Whether you’re looking for a sophisticated first drink or a lively finale to the evening, this downtown duo delivers the best of both worlds without ever leaving the block.

Daniel Sartain and Aubrey Zinaich-Howell, owners of Annexe, High Dive and Bar Virgile, at the Annexe bar.

l i a t Re THERAPY

Add these unique storefronts to your next shopping spree

By Rebekah Mann | Photography by John Michael Simpson

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FRA NKLIN STREE T, CHA PEL HILL

ARTS & CULTURE

In Tar Heel town, grab some UNC merch at Alumni Hall or Shrunken Head Boutique.

You’ll find more formal his and hers clothing at Julian’s and Uniquities, respectfully. After you check out the new and used books at Epilogue, spend some time at Cat Tales Cat Cafe enjoying sweet treats alongside adoptable furry friends, or uncover a rich flavor profile with DB Sutton and Company’s selection of wine from family-owned estates (it’s also a hair salon, so book a trim or service and unwind).

WEST DURHA M

Sustainably purchasing your next favorite secondhand item is made easy at Mode Consignment Boutique, a woman-owned store dedicated to curating quality designer and name-brand merchandise. You can also give clothes and furniture a second life at Gibson Girl Vintage, where new arrivals are posted on Instagram daily. To spoil your furry friend with healthy foods and chews, stop

by Unleashed before grabbing a taste of ice cream – or their free pup treat – at Scoop Local. Dairy-free? Scoop offers a yummy oatmilk alternative.

The region is packed with charming shops, curated boutiques and inspiring galleries, perfect for an afternoon of wandering and discovering one-of-a-kind finds. Here are a few you won’t want to miss.

DOW NTOW N HILLSBOROU G H

You never know what you’ll find strolling the streets of this historic town. Stop in to Cup-A-Joe for a caffeine boost, then peruse the fine art at Saltire Gallerie, which specializes in European paintings from the 18th through 20th centuries.

Be charmed by the vintage jewelry at Carlisle & Linny, or try a different kind of vintage at Hillsborough Wine Company. Support local artists at Hillsborough Gallery of Arts, or pick up a new read at Purple Crow Books.

THE STREE TS AT SOU T HPOINT, D U R H AM

You’ll find plenty to explore at Durham’s indoor/outdoor mall. Admire dazzling pieces at Fink’s Jewelers, commit to permanent jewelry at Stay Zapped or find the perfect everyday accessory at Light Years Jewelry. Refresh your living space with a stylish find from Crate & Barrel, then settle in for a movie at AMC Southpoint 17 – popcorn in hand, of course. When hunger strikes, check out the food court for local bites.

BR IGHTLEA F SQUA RE , DURHA M ABOVE Katy Poitras, co-owner of Cat Tales Cat Cafe, recommends making a reservation for your visit with the cafe’s adoptable felines.

BELOW You might run in to owner Jen Devlin’s pups, Hammy and Tupelo, at Vintage Home South.

For the perfect gift for a friend, your mom (or, let’s be honest, yourself), check out the pottery, jewelry, games and decor at Indio. For a fun date or girls night, pour your own candles at Paddywax Candle Bar. Find a beautiful gift at Hamilton Hill Jewelry or Mill & Meadow, then treat yourself to a massage at The Retreat. 

NINTH STREE T, DURHA M

The shops on this street are storied with rich history – including, but not limited to, The Regulator Bookshop, which has been open for 50 years. Check some items off your pet shopping list at Barnes Supply Co., a staple that opened in 1946, and Vintage Home South. Don’t forget to add to your music collection at Hunky Dory record store.

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Browse racks of vintage t-shirts, denim and more at Screaming for Vintage. 

DOW NTOW N PIT TS BORO

The charming Circle City, so named for its central traffic circle, is an antique and vintage lover’s paradise. Upgrade your wardrobe at New Karma for Old Threads, dig through the record crates, clothing racks and home goods at Screaming for Vintage or explore the many booths at Reclamation. The town is also known for its artists and potters – find handcrafted goods at Show of Hands Gallery or Pittsboro Gallery of Arts, or commission a piece of jewelry for someone special at JG McLaurin Goldsmith. TW

Your Everyday

Escape

Shop. Dine. Play. Unwind.

All at North Hills.

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CULTURE Get lost in galleries, see an innovative performance or find your new favorite museum PHOTO BY JOHN MICHAEL SIMPSON

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h c t a C a

SHOW

These venues bring world-class performances to our backyard

By Katrina McLean

Concert-lovers can enjoy a unique entertainment experience with Live Nation Premium at fan-favorite Raleigh venues like

The Carolina Theatre has been a symbol of

Durham’s performing arts legacy for a century.

The theater presents more than 60 concerts each year that encompass music, comedy, live podcast shows, film screenings and more.

The centennial celebration features special programming and events with appearances from comedians like Connor Wood, music from Punch Brothers and classic ballets like “Swan Lake” and “Aladdin.” It also features showings of new and old-school movies year-round, like “Devil Wears Prada 2”and “Forrest Gump.” carolinatheatre.org Durham Performing Arts Center, locally

known as DPAC (dee-pack), is Durham’s largest live entertainment venue. This upcoming season, Broadway at DPAC presents exciting hits such as “Wicked,” “The Phantom of the Opera,” “Waitress” and many more. Other events include “RuPaul’s Drag Race Werq the World Tour,” local musicians Sylvan Esso in concert and an evening with longtime “This American Life” host Ira Glass. dpacnc.com Audiences at PlayMakers Repertory Company, a professional theater company in residence at UNC, have been entertained with

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relevant work that tells stories from and for many perspectives for 50 years. Its celebratory 2026/27 season will feature “The Piano Lesson,” a Pulitzer Prize-winning drama; a world premiere of “Oedipus: King/Colonus,” an adaptation of Sophocles epic tragedy; and “John Proctor is the Villain,” an American classic reimagined. playmakersrep.org Duke Arts Presents pushes performance

boundaries with its diverse, inclusive and impactful arts programs. Summer brings the American Dance Festival to stages across Duke University’s campus, and 2026/27 season highlights include solo shows with Broadway stars like Renée Elise Goldsberry and Sutton Foster, plus a performance by Grammy Award-winning bassist Christian McBride with band Ursa Major. The Chamber Arts Series also returns with a lineup of eight concerts from world-renowned small ensembles. dukearts.org NC State Live strives to connect across cultures

and bridge gaps between artists and audiences.

The stage and concert series has featured Grammy Award winners and extraordinary large-scale arts performances – keep an eye out for NC State Live’s 2026/27 season announcement in August 2026. live.arts.ncsu.edu

venues – with capacities of 20,000 and 6,000 respectively – play host to popular singers and groups like Bob Dylan, Chance the Rapper, Bleachers, Paul Simon, Shaboozey, Billy Idol and Simple Plan this year. Premium members get special access and amenities like presale tickets and streamlined private entry all season long. premium.livenation.com The North Carolina Opera presents another artistically significant year, kicking off the season with “Carmen,” Bizet’s bold story of passion.

All operas will be performed in their original language with English translations projected above the stage. ncopera.org Raleigh’s Theatre in the Park brings quality theater to the northern side of Pullen Park, where audiences can laugh, cry and celebrate the arts surrounded by beautiful gardens. Its performances draw fans with many different interests, and its 2026 lineup promises another exciting season. Don’t miss Sarah Ruhl’s retelling of the Orpheus myth from the heroine’s point of view in “Eurydice,” the witty historical comedy “The Revolutionists” and singing zombies in “Evil Dead: The Musical.” theatreinthepark.com TW

PHOTO COURTESY OF THEATRE IN THE PARK

PHOTO BY JOHN MICHAEL SIMPSON

ARTS & CULTURE

Coastal Credit Union Music Park at Walnut Creek and Red Hat Amphitheater. These

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COHERENCE IN COMPLEXITY

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or mixed-media artist Chieko Murasugi, art begins with curiosity. She is drawn to contradictions, unexpected pairings and visual puzzles – elements that challenge assumptions and invite viewers to look closer.

Whether she’s working with paint, textiles or photography, the Chapel Hill-based artist creates work that balances surprise with meaning, often exploring deeply personal and societal themes through unconventional materials.

After years of raising her two children while working largely in isolation, Chieko found something transformative in the Triangle: community. Renting her first studio outside the home connected her with fellow artists, and in 2019 she returned to school to pursue an MFA in studio art at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, decades after earning her BFA. “Living and making art in the Triangle has been rewarding beyond my expectations,” she says.

Chieko’s multidisciplinary practice reflects a life that spans cultures, professions and histories.

Born in Japan, she identifies as JapaneseCanadian-American. She is both scientist and artist, and the daughter of parents who survived the firebombing of Tokyo during World War II. Her advice to young artists is to lean into their personal background as a source of inspiration.

“There might not be another American with your particular history,” she says. “These experiences will become your art.”

Her work frequently combines beauty and

discomfort, joy and sorrow. A quilt inspired by the traditional log cabin pattern incorporates images of bullet casings to address gun violence in the United States. A kimono constructed from cheesecloth and rabbit-skin glue references the napalm bombs dropped on Tokyo. Another, sewn from donated bras, celebrates womanhood.

“I am attracted to unusual combinations because my own history and identity are

multifaceted,” she says.

Although painting was her first artistic medium, Chieko can’t choose a favorite. Instead, she embraces experimentation. Photography allows her to capture surprising moments as they happen, while textiles and painting provide opportunities to explore ideas through material and process.

One of her ongoing projects, the “Deuce” painting series, uses identical chance operations

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Meet a few of the artists making the Triangle more colorful

By Morgan Cartier Weston Photography by John Michael Simpson

LEFT Chieko with one of her abstract “Deuce” paintings in her home studio.

RIGHT Find Gabriel’s mural, “Rebirth,” at Boxyard RTP in Durham.

PAINTING COMMUNITY

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ommunity is more than inspiration for muralist Gabriel Eng-Goetz – it’s his medium.

“Despite jumping around different materials, locations and messages, the commonality in my murals has always been community,” he says.

Born and raised in Durham, Gabriel studied art at Syracuse University before living and working in other states and countries – yet he always found himself drawn back home.

“Durham is a very special place and has always been good to me,” he says. “I just really, really love it.”

Today, his large-scale murals can be found across North Carolina and beyond, often created through an extensive process of research, listening and collaboration. Before putting pencil to paper,

Gabriel immerses himself in the history and identity of that place.

“I’ll often go in for several days and visit historical sites and talk to people,” he says. “I try to understand the theme, vibe, history and cultural identity of the area.”

That research becomes the foundation for murals that celebrate place while inviting viewers to discover deeper layers of meaning. His work frequently explores humanity’s connection to nature, a theme that resonates strongly with the areas he serves.

“The number one request I get when I’m engaging a community is nature,” he says. “People obviously love the outdoors, but as we delve further into the technological abyss, people are wanting to feel that connection more and more.”

Bright colors, flowing forms and organic imagery have become signatures of Gabriel’s work.

While visually striking from a distance, his murals often contain subtle references and symbolic details for local residents to uncover.

“I don’t want to hit people over the head,” he says. “I want people to delve into the details and the subtle symbolism.”

Creating public art, however, is far from glamorous. “I think people really romanticize painting murals as a career, but it is hard, blue-collar work,” he says. Long days on lifts, extreme heat and physical exhaustion are part of the job, yet the rewards make the effort worthwhile.

“There are times when the weather’s great, maybe you’re in the shade, it’s golden hour and you can see the sum of all your labor as this giant piece comes together,”

he says. “It’s a unique moment of Zen.” This year also marks a new chapter for Gabriel with the launch of Durm Studio, a revival and evolution of the Runaway brand he previously operated. Alongside business partner Michael Brannon, Gabriel plans to offer apparel design, custom merchandise production and creative services while continuing his public art practice.

And, after spending years traveling from project to project, he’s excited to reconnect with the city that shaped him. “I missed having a steady connection to Durham,” he says. “I’m hoping Durm Studio allows me to experience the Durham arts and business environment the way I have in the past.” For an artist whose work is rooted in place, it’s a fitting homecoming. 

ARTS & CULTURE

in paired circles to demonstrate how dramatically outcomes can differ despite the same set of rules.

“It’s unexpected that random choices can produce such geometric abstraction paintings,” she explains.

The series was recently exhibited at Durham’s Craven Allen Gallery, where visitors can continue to view and inquire about her work.

After presenting two major exhibitions this spring – including a mid-career retrospective at GreenHill Center for NC Art in Greensboro – Chieko is looking forward to a quieter season focused on creating.

Future projects include kimonos made from old diary pages and the American flag, continuing her exploration of memory, identity and cultural complexities: “In my art, I find coherence when possible but let tensions remain.”

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THE EMOTIONAL LANDSCAPE

L

ARTS & CULTURE

eslie Pruneau doesn’t consider herself

a landscape painter. The Raleigh artist paints forests, rivers, oceans and fields of wildflowers, but for her, the subject is never simply a place. Instead, it’s a reflection of an inner world. “I feel I am painting an emotional landscape as much as a physical one,” she says.

A Raleigh native and graduate of East Carolina University, Leslie has been on an artistic journey that has taken her far beyond North Carolina. After college, she moved to New York City before traveling through Europe, where a planned one-week stop in Berlin coincided with the fall of the Berlin Wall.

“There was so much energy after the wall came down,” she recalls. It captured Leslie’s imagination, and she ultimately spent years living between Berlin and New York before returning to the Triangle when her husband accepted a position in Research Triangle Park.

The region she came home to looked very different from the one she left. “When I came back, I was pleasantly surprised to see how much the arts had changed throughout Raleigh, Durham and Chapel Hill,” she says. “There is so much room for creative exploration now in the Triangle.”

Just like life, there is a path behind everything [artists] do,” she says. “Even though no one may ever see the splash of yellow hidden under the layers of paint, it’s there, and it is part of the painting.”

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Having an affordable studio outside her home has further transformed her practice. Today, she works daily from her space at Artspace, creating richly textured oil paintings built from layer upon layer of paint – sometimes hundreds.

“I’ve been painting for 40 years,” she says.

“It’s always intrigued me – how far can I build [the paint] away from the plane?”

Her paintings often begin outdoors. An avid hiker and cyclist, Leslie spends time observing nature, searching for moments that resonate emotionally. Photographs serve as references but are not interpreted literally.

“I’m trying to capture the feeling of that place, not always the exact image,” she says.

During the pandemic, Leslie shifted away from conceptual and socially focused work toward paintings inspired by the resilience of the natural world. Trees, flowers and ecosystems became metaphors for human experience.

“I wasn’t seeing people, and I switched to a narrative of using nature to describe my feelings and emotions,” she explains.

More recently, Leslie has found herself thinking about crowds as well as landscapes.

Fields of wildflowers and gatherings of people, she says, share a common desire: “A large group of many individuals, each wanting to be seen and heard.”

A longtime educator, Leslie has taught at institutions including Pullen Arts Center, Artspace and the North Carolina Museum of Art, and is passionate about helping others discover creativity. However, her own studio practice now occupies most of her time.

“Making art is so important to me,” she says.

Visitors can find her work during Raleigh’s First Friday events at Artspace and in upcoming exhibitions, including a summer landscape show at Frank Gallery in Carrboro. And if viewers look closely, they may discover one of her favorite hidden details – a bee or bird tucked quietly into the scene. After all, she says, “Good art isn’t just there to be looked at. Good art looks back at you.” TW

Leslie’s paintings are known for their heavily layered oil surfaces, which create depth, luminosity and movement. The process can take months as she continually builds and revises.

A Closer Look at

AMERICAN TOBACCO CAMPUS

By Amanda MacLaren

PHOTO BY JOHN MICHAEL SIMPSON

After winning over fans across the Triangle, Lutra Cafe and Bakery opened its doors June 26, 2026, bringing chef Chris McLaurin’s beloved sweet and savory creations to a permanent home seven days a week. The new cafe serves up a breakfast and lunch menu – from the oh-so-dreamy sweet buns and crispy 100-layer hash browns to crave-worthy breakfast and deli sandwiches – elevated by Chris’ finedining experience. The 2,600-squarefoot space on the north side of the campus and next door to Ment Beverage Co. features a colorful mural by Durham artist Samantha Castrovinci, a vivid neon “Hot Buns” sign and 36 seats indoors with an additional 20 seats on the patio.

Duke Arts performances return to the Lawn at ATC this September with a free Wednesday-night concert series curated by Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Tift Merritt. This year’s programming highlights the powerful lineage of women singer-songwriters whose storytelling and creative influence continue to shape generations. The full lineup for this sixth annual event will be announced this summer.

Owned by brothers Brad Weddington and Graham Weddington, along with Brad’s wife, Megan Weddington, who serves as director of operations, NanaSteak and Seraphine are two of ATC’s standout fine-dining destinations, with the latter earning a Michelin recommendation in 2025 (read more about it on page 32!). More than a decade after opening beside DPAC, NanaSteak continues to build upon what makes it one of Durham’s favorite steakhouses: impeccable service, thoughtful sourcing and an experience that feels equal parts celebration and escape. In 2023, the family expanded their footprint with Seraphine, bringing the flavors and spirit of Louisiana to Durham through its lively atmosphere and executive chef Christopher Garrett’s polished menu inspired by the Gulf South. Together, the sister restaurants reflect the Weddingtons’ shared passion for exceptional hospitality, memorable meals and creating places guests return to again and again.

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PHOTO BY ANNA ROUTH BARZIN

ARTS & CULTURE

Parker & Otis is part cafe, part gift shop and entirely charming – perfect for a casual breakfast or lunch (nearly everyone in Durham knows their favorite P&O sandwich number … you’ve got to try the No. 29), a coffee break between meetings or browsing its carefully curated selection of specialty foods, books and home goods for unique gifts and gourmet treats.

Yoga Off East is a welcoming 2,300-square-foot studio where approachable, thoughtfully led classes meet a community-driven vibe – a calm, idyllic setting whether you’re rolling out a mat for the first time or deepening an established practice. The schedule offers a wide range of styles, from gentle, restorative sessions like Stretch + Restore and Mellow Flow, to more energizing options such as Warm Balanced Flow and strengthbuilding vinyasa classes combined with modalities like meditation, yin, myofascial release or infrared heat.

PHOTO BY STACEY SPRENZ

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estored factory spaces now house offices, restaurants, bars, shops, entertainment venues and alfresco gathering spots in the heart of downtown Durham

Experience the world’s most prestigious courses without leaving downtown Durham at State of Golf, a modern indoor golf and sports simulator lounge. It features a full-service bar with craft cocktails, beer and wine, plus a unique setting perfect for team bonding and celebrations.

Not a golfer? Challenge your friends to 30 other sport simulations, including baseball, soccer and darts.

Locally known as DPAC (pronounced “dee-pack”), the Durham Performing Arts Center is the city’s largest live entertainment venue. The brightly lit contemporary glass structure features spectacular sightlines, stateof-the-art sound and legendary red carpet customer service. The theater presents some of the biggest shows and stars in the world in a 2,700-seat setting, hosting up to 600,000 guests annually at 250plus performances, which include touring Broadway productions, the very best of concerts and comedy, family shows and special events of all kinds.

Coming Soon East of Texas – a WinstonSalem favorite for Tex-Mex and house-smoked barbecue – is slated to open a new location in the historic Reed Building by mid-summer 2026. The 5,579-square-foot space will feature a private event area, garage doors opening to outdoor seating near the Lucky Strike water tower, and a market with grab-and-go family meals and retail offerings.

Fullsteam’s chief executive optimist Sean Lilly Wilson launched the brewery’s original taproom on Rigsbee Avenue in 2010, followed by an expansion to Boxyard RTP in 2021. After closing the Rigsbee location in October 2024, Sean is preparing to open Fullsteam’s new 9,000-square-foot taproom in the Power Plant building at ATC by Labor Day 2026. TW

2026–27 Season “Our Common Home” brings together artists from around the world whose work reflects on identity, environment, and our shared future.

Highlights include Mo Amer, Sutton Foster, Christian McBride, HopeBoykinDance, VOCES8, and more.

Learn more dukearts.org Featured photos: An Evening with Sutton Foster (Photo by Jenny Anderson), MAJOR by Ogemdi Ude, Parched: Created by Official Puppet Business

Our Common Home

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The Centerpiece

ARTS & CULTURE

This sweeping, colorful space in Raleigh invites visitors to explore contemporary fine art in an array of mediums, including painting, glass, metalwork, sculpture, pottery and more. The Centerpiece Gallery also provides custom framing and its artists offer custom commissions, as well as painting classes and other special events for those looking to unlock their own creativity or bring some color into their home or office.

ON DISPLAY The Triangle is home to museums and gallery spaces that inspire discovery and learning – whether you’re exploring creative works or diving into local history Photography by John Michael Simpson

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NORTH CAROLINA MUSEUM OF ART

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This downtown Cary arts hub features a 431-seat theater, rotating gallery exhibitions, art classes and workshops, artist studios, live performances and community events. Housed in the former Cary High School, a restored 1939 building listed on the National Register of Historic Places, it blends the town’s history with a dynamic arts scene.

City of Raleigh Museum

This free downtown Raleigh museum explores the city's past, present and future through rotating exhibits, educational programs and a collection

of thousands of artifacts. Housed in the historic 1874 Briggs Hardware Building, it brings the City of Oaks’ rich history to life through engaging, interactive storytelling.

Gallery C

Located in Raleigh’s Historic Oakwood neighborhood, Gallery C has showcased fine art since 1985. The gallery specializes in contemporary works alongside historically significant North Carolina art, folk art, animation art and antique prints, representing more than 30 N.C. artists in a beautifully restored historic home. 

BELOW The NCMA hosts many immersive experiences throughout the year, like Art in Bloom, which invites local florists to interpret works from the permanent collection each spring.

ARTS & CULTURE

he North Carolina Museum of Art is one of the Southeast’s premier art museums, featuring an impressive collection spanning more than 5,000 years of history. Admission to the permanent collection is free, making it easy to spend an afternoon exploring works from Europe, Africa, Asia and the Americas. Outside, visitors can walk, run or bike through the museum’s 164-acre park, where large-scale sculptures dot miles of scenic trails.

The museum also hosts concerts, films, family programs and special exhibitions throughout the year.

Cary Arts Center

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Museum of Durham History

Discover the people, places and events that shaped the Bull City through engaging exhibits and interactive displays. The museum’s family-friendly scavenger hunts and educational activities make local history approachable and fun for younger visitors while offering plenty for adults to explore as well.

Nasher Museum of Art at Duke University D UR H A M CO U N T Y

This free museum at NC State University features rotating exhibitions and a permanent collection of more than 50,000 works spanning art, craft and design, including textiles, ceramics, photography, folk art and contemporary pieces.

21c Museum Hotel Durham

This free contemporary art museum in downtown Durham showcases rotating, thought-provoking exhibitions across more than 10,500 square feet of gallery space inside the historic Hill Building.

Open 24/7, it seamlessly blends cutting-edge art with the boutique 21c Museum Hotel, inviting visitors to explore galleries, immersive installations and site-specific works.

PHOTO BY CORNELL WATSON

ARTS & CULTURE

Gregg Museum of Art & Design

The Nasher Museum of Art at Duke University presents an impressive collection of global works alongside rotating exhibitions featuring contemporary artists from around the world.

Family days, gallery talks, workshops and community events make the museum accessible to guests of all ages. The striking modern architecture is worth the visit on its own. Its current "Everything Now All At Once" exhibit, on view through Nov. 1, 2026, showcases iconic works in the Nasher Museum’s contemporary collection in honor of its 20th anniversary. 

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CHATHAM COU NT Y

Pittsboro Gallery of Arts

This artist-owned cooperative gallery in the heart of downtown Pittsboro showcases fine art and craft by more than 50 local and regional artists, including paintings, pottery, woodworking, jewelry, photography and sculpture. Rotating exhibitions, artist receptions and hands-on workshops celebrate the county’s thriving creative community.

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The ArtsCenter

With its move to Roberson Street a few years ago, the Carrboro arts hub tripled the size of its ceramics studio and added a light-filled painting space alongside new makerspaces equipped with laser cutters, 3D printers and green screens. It also hosts second Friday exhibition openings and receptions from 6-8:30 p.m. in the Sweet Bay Gallery and Theater Gallery.

This nonprofit contemporary art gallery in Carrboro showcases rotating exhibitions by accomplished Triangle artists working in painting, photography, ceramics, sculpture, jewelry, glass, wood and mixed media. Founded in 2010, it also offers artist talks, workshops and community arts programs that make local art accessible to all.

Orange County Historical Museum

This free downtown Hillsborough museum preserves and interprets the history of the county through more than 2,000 artifacts and rotating exhibits spanning Indigenous life, colonial settlement, the American Revolution, the Civil War and 20th-century community life. The exhibit "United We Stand, Divided We Fall" runs through December 2026 and focuses on threads like the arts and commerce that have bound the community together. Housed in a 1934 New Deal-era building that once served as the town

library, it offers tours, educational programs and a handson Kids Space experience designed for ages 3 and older.

Carolina Basketball Museum

Celebrate one of college basketball’s most storied programs at the Carolina Basketball Museum on UNC’s campus.

Admission is free, and visitors can explore decades of Tar Heel history from championship trophies, jerseys and memorabilia to interactive exhibits highlighting legendary players and coaches. Watch memorable game footage, learn about the program’s traditions and relive iconic moments that made Carolina basketball a household name.

Whether you’re a lifelong fan or simply curious about the sport’s history, it’s a slam dunk stop in Chapel Hill. TW

ACKLAND ART MUSEUM

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he Ackland Art Museum houses a diverse collection of art spanning centuries and continents. Visitors can explore everything from European masterworks and Asian ceramics to contemporary photography and modern paintings.

Family-friendly programs, guided tours and handson workshops provide opportunities for visitors of all ages to connect with art in meaningful ways.

IMAGE COURTESY OF ACKLAND ART MUSEUM

ARTS & CULTURE

Frank Gallery

Lola Flash, American, born 1959, I Pray, Manhattan, NY, from Syzygy, the Vision Series, 2020, archival pigment print. Ackland Fund, 2026.6. © 2020 Lola Flash.

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LEFT “Care and Concern”: Recent Acquisitions of Modern and Contemporary Art features works by artists such as Lola Flash, left, which explore how creators process emotion, connection and uncertainty. It's on view through Nov. 15, 2026.

For 100 Years, the Triangle Has Gathered Here.

A Closer Look at

MOSAIC at CHATHAM PARK

By Morgan Cartier Weston | Photography by John Michael Simpson

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Mix and match your picnic with plates from Greek Kouzina and Mi Cancun, a slice of cake from Cafe Root Cellar and brews from Forgotten Road Ales.

ARTS & CULTURE

osaic at Chatham Park offers a culinary tour around the world without ever leaving Pittsboro. From Greek favorites and Mexican classics to coffee, craft beer and locally inspired comfort food, the walkable entertainment district has quickly become one of Chatham County’s go-to dining destinations

Enjoy a fresh, made-to-order meal at Greek Kouzina, where chicken kebabs, gyro platters and crisp Greek salads are served alongside creamy hummus, stuffed grape leaves and warm grilled pita. Or, head to Mi Cancun for sizzling fajitas, tacos and enchiladas – and don't skip the complimentary tortilla chips, made fresh daily and seasoned with a signature blend of lemon pepper and salt. Pair them with the restaurant’s popular queso dip for the perfect appetizer.

Indulge in some self-care with an upbeat fitness class at Barre3 or a personalized service at Lux Nail.

Bar.Spa or Radiance Rx Skin & Aesthetics. Four-legged family members aren’t forgotten at Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming, where pups can browse gourmet treats, birthday cakes, toys and premium foods before enjoying a professional grooming appointment.

Craft beer lovers can enjoy a rotating selection of North Carolina brews at Forgotten Road Ales, whose welcoming taproom regularly hosts live music, trivia nights and community gatherings, or grab a sixpack to go. Just around the corner, Hops & Berry Taproom offers dozens of rotating self-pour craft beers, ciders and wines as well as a full cocktail menu, all of which pair well with the house-breaded wings, Brussels sprouts and fries. The relaxed setting is an ideal stop to discover local and regional beverages while catching a game or meeting friends.

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For breakfast, brunch or lunch, Cafe Root Cellar serves scratch-made comfort food with Southern flair. Save room for dessert – the cakes, cookies and pastries have developed a loyal following of their own. Need a caffeine boost? People’s Coffee serves expertly crafted espresso drinks, freshbrewed coffee and specialty beverages in a cozy cafe that’s equally suited for a quick morning stop or an afternoon work session.

Coming Soon

The lineup at Mosaic continues to grow – look for a Tavolo Italian restaurant and Pecan Jacks candy and ice cream shop later in 2026, as well as The Flying Biscuit Cafe in 2027. TW

ANNUAL EVENTS

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE TOWN OF CARY

Sign up for our weekly newsletter for more great weekend ideas!

August WA KE CO U NTY

Out! Raleigh Pride

Late June 2027 An integral part of Raleigh’s downtown culture, this annual event promotes diversity, awareness and inclusiveness for the LGBTQ+ community while raising funds to support the LGBT Center of Raleigh and all of its essential programs.

Friday evening, adults 18 and older are welcome to enjoy entertainment and vendors; Saturday, family-friendly festivities include food trucks, a kids zone, artists, live music and more.

Downtown Cary Patriotic Celebration

July 3-4, 2027 Start your Fourth of July celebrations early with music at the Cary Arts Center July 3, then see the fireworks at Koka Booth Amphitheatre on the Fourth.

Beer, Bourbon & BBQ Festival

July 31, 2026, 6-10 p.m., & Aug. 1, 2026, noon-6 p.m.

This quintessentially Southern festival features more than 60 beer offerings, 40 bourbon brands and all forms of barbecue – from whole-hog pulled pork to ribs to brisket and all the fixins you can imagine – over two days at Koka Booth Amphitheatre.

GalaxyCon Raleigh

July 23-26, 2026 Celebrate comic books, pop culture, sci-fi, fantasy, gaming and anime at this four-day festival of fandom at the Raleigh Convention Center.

Meet some of your favorite celebrities, artists, writers, voice actors and entertainers, plus enjoy after-parties, swag, pose for photo ops and more.

July 21 & Aug. 18, 2026 Treat your little ones to a monthly summer series of interactive and entertaining opportunities for children to come together to learn, exercise and socialize in an outdoor environment at North Hills’ Midtown Park.

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9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Lazy Daze Arts and Crafts Festival

Enjoy the 50th annual two-day arts and crafts festival with more than 250 featured artists, a beer garden, live music, children’s activities and various food and drink vendors at Cary Town Hall Campus.

CaribMask Carnival

North Hills Kids

PHOTO BY JOHN MANARD

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Aug. 15, 2026, 11 a.m.-8 p.m.

Now in its 13th year, this spectacular, colorful and energetic festival at downtown Raleigh’s City Plaza celebrates Afro-Caribbean culture.

Performers and bands parade down the street in elaborate costumes jamming to music traditional to their countries – more than 15 will be represented – while attendees enjoy great acts, artisan vendors and tasty, culturally significant foods. 

BALLET TO OPERA. CONCERTS TO COMEDY.

photo: Joshua Dwight

RALEIGH’S

premier

ARTS VENUE photo: Eric Waters

SYMPHONY TO THEATRE. AND MORE.

photo: Tom Beck

join us as we raise the curtain on world-class performances

photo: John Hansen

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Hopscotch Music Festival

Sept. 10-12, 2026 This three-day music festival returns to multiple venues in downtown Raleigh with its memorable performances and fan-friendly atmosphere. Music across multiple genres – from rock, hip-hop and folk to metal and electronic – will be on tap from both national and local acts.

ORA N G E CO U N TY

Paperhand Puppet Project’s 'The Wild Wisdom of the World'

Sept. 17-19, 2026 This festival returns to Shakori Hills Community Arts Center in September, featuring band and instrument contests, concerts, square dances, workshops, showcases, film screenings, jam sessions and children’s activities, with on-site camping available.

PepperFest

Sept. 13, 2026, noon-6 p.m.

Warm up your taste buds! North Carolina’s spiciest outdoor food festival, hosted at The Plant, takes place on Lorax Lane in Pittsboro every September.

Don’t miss out on local craft vendors and live music while trying pepper-themed dishes, cocktails and hot sauces made with locally grown sweet, hot and smoky peppers.

PHOTO BY JOHN MANARD

Weekends, August-September 2026 The Saxapahaw-based puppet troupe performs a larger-than-life outdoor show at the Forest Theatre in Chapel Hill. Now in its 26th year, this series of shows inspires and promotes connection and social change using giant puppets, masks and stilts set to original live music.

Hoppin’ John Fiddlers’ Convention

Hillsborough Hog Day

Sept. 18, 2026, 6-10 p.m., & Sept. 19, 2026, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

Indulge in a celebration of all things pork with delicious food, live music and family-friendly activities at River Park in downtown Hillsborough. This annual tradition has taken place for more than 40 years in Orange County, with profits supporting children’s projects, schools and nonprofits within the community.

C H ATH AM CO U N TY

Old-Fashioned Farmers’ Day

Sept. 5-6, 2026, 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

The 51st annual event in Silk Hope includes farm animals, displays of working equipment and tools, such as a grist mill, as well as family-friendly live entertainment, games, food and ice cream made with steam power.

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DU RHAM COUN TY

July Fourth Celebration

July 4, 2027 Celebrate patriotism and civic pride with Durham Parks & Recreation and the Durham Bulls. Attend the baseball game at the Durham Bulls Athletic Park and enjoy a dynamic fireworks show following the game.

Eno River Association’s 60th Anniversary Celebration

Sept. 12, 2026 Celebrate the Eno River Association’s 60 years of love and care for the Eno River with all-day festivities in DPlex Plaza in downtown Durham, including performance art and the opportunity to buy new Eno River swag. The celebrations conclude at the Carolina Theatre, with a concert benefiting the organization’s reconstruction efforts after Tropical Storm Chantal.

OutSouth Queer Film Festival

Aug. 13-16, 2026 Durham’s Carolina Theatre hosts the second-largest LGBTQ+ film festival in the Southeast, which celebrates a worldwide glimpse of today’s LGBTQ+ life, helps bring the community together, and features entertaining and sophisticated films and filmmaking.

September

19-20 10 a.m.6 p.m.

11 a.m.5 p.m.

CenterFest

Presented by the Durham Arts Council, this is the longest-running street arts festival in North Carolina and the largest arts and community festival in Durham.

The two-day event showcases paintings, photography, jewelry, fiber art, woodwork, glass and more by juried artists, as well as entertainment, food and fun for the whole family in downtown’s City Center.

Black August in the Park

Aug. 28-30, 2026 This festival at Durham Central Park connects people of African descent and inspires them to assert their value and engage in social and cultural change. The event is reminiscent of a Black family reunion or a homecoming, with an additional emphasis on providing a platform for, and elevating the causes of, social justice organizations.

TR IAN GLE-WI D E

Latin American Film Festival

Oct. 14-17, 2026 This festival, organized by the Consortium in Latin American and Caribbean Studies at Duke University and UNC, has featured work by Latin filmmakers from more than 20 countries in

13 languages, screening films and inviting speakers on issues such as migration and globalization at various locations around Durham, Chapel Hill and Raleigh. In its 40th year, the festival will celebrate its history with a conference on the state of Latin American film and screenings showcasing the region’s most representative film production. 

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ANNUAL EVENTS

October WA KE CO U NTY

Triangle Oktoberfest

Oct. 2-3, 2026 Take part in family-friendly activities, traditional Bavarian food and authentic German-style beer at central North Carolina’s largest Oktoberfest event, hosted by Apex Sunrise Rotary Club and Cary MacGregor Rotary Club at Koka Booth Amphitheatre. This celebration includes polka music, competitions to showcase your strength and kid-friendly games. All proceeds benefit local charities.

Falling for Local

Oct. 3, 2026, 11 a.m.-6 p.m.

Celebrate all things local at Dorothea Dix Park’s fall festival and market.

Experience loads of fall fun with hayrides, lawn games and a free pumpkin patch, and support area entrepreneurs by grabbing fare from among the dozens of local food trucks while sipping a craft beer during this family-friendly event.

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Diwali Celebration

Oct. 10, 2026, 9 a.m.-9 p.m.

Hum Sub Inc.’s observation of the five-day festival – which celebrates the victory of light over darkness – at Koka Booth Amphitheatre features cultural performances, exhibition booths, food vendors and more. The event is also sponsored by the United Arts Council and the Town of Cary.

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Shakori Hills GrassRoots Festival of Music & Dance

This biannual festival welcomes lovers of music, dance, art and nature to camp out and enjoy dozens of bands, vendors and food trucks among the trees in Pittsboro.

NC Wine, Cheese & Chocolate Festival

Oct. 14, 2026, 1-6 p.m.

Explore the unique shops at Lafayette Village in Raleigh as you sample wines, cheeses and chocolates. Guests are welcome to bring lawn chairs to enjoy the fun atmosphere and live music.

N.C. State Fair

Oct. 15-25, 2026 Carnival rides, games and fried foods galore: the largest event in our state showcases the finest of North Carolina at

the N.C. State Fairgrounds. Highlights include a livestock show, horticultural exhibits, live music, motorsports derby, nightly fireworks and more.

NC Chinese Lantern Festival

November 2026-January 2027 Experience more than 40 intricate illuminated silk lanterns and nightly cultural arts performances at Koka Booth Amphitheatre. The showcase creates a colorful setting that draws thousands of visitors from across the country each year.

The Nutcracker

Dec. 10-24, 2026 This familiar holiday classic is performed

by Carolina Ballet’s cast of professional dancers with a unique twist thanks to magnificent sets, refreshed choreography and costumes, and a special live music performance from the North Carolina Symphony Dec. 19-21 at Raleigh Memorial Auditorium.

Historic Oakwood Candlelight Tour

Dec. 12-13, 2026 Close to a dozen houses in Raleigh’s Historic Oakwood neighborhood, which date from the mid 1800s to the early 1900s and span styles from Queen Anne to Craftsman, open their doors to visitors.

The Society for the Preservation of Historic Oakwood docents are stationed in each home to share knowledge about each location’s history.

O RA NGE CO U NTY

Carrboro Music Festival

Sept. 26-27, 2026 Rock out to nearly 100 bands during the two-day festival. There’s no admission fee, so grab a schedule and catch your favorite music genres at venues across town.

Arts on Market

this special week will kick off with a Vendor Sign up for our & Food Truck Rodeo weekly newsletter at Durham Central for more great Park, continue with weekend ideas! multiple collaborative programs throughout the week, and then conclude with the Community Parade A Carolina Inn Holiday along Duke University’s East Get in the festive spirit with Campus, stretching 2 miles and brunch with Santa, wreath making, featuring nearly 100 marching groups gingerbread decorating and markets at from across Durham and beyond.

The Carolina Inn throughout December.

Nov. 22, 2026 This community event in Southern Village features handcrafted art and gifts made by regional artists, artisans, bakers and makers.

Chapel Hill-Carrboro Community Holiday Parade

Dec. 5, 2026 Join the towns of Chapel Hill and Carrboro for a festive, entertaining, safe and inclusive community parade to celebrate the winter holiday season. Stake out your curbside spot and watch more than 40 arts, cultural and community groups parade down Franklin Street in Chapel Hill and Main Street in Carrboro.

Light Up the Night Parade

Dec. 6, 2026, 4-6:30 p.m.

This holiday parade through downtown Hillsborough includes local bands, businesses, dance troupes and classic cars. It kicks off with the “Running of the Elves” road race.

Chapel Hill Día de los Muertos

Oct. 25, 2026, noon-5 p.m.

Explore an arts market and experience traditional performances and activities to celebrate Día de Muertos with Chapel Hill Community Arts & Culture at 140 W. Franklin St. Plaza.

Festifall Arts Markets

Nov. 7, 2026, noon-5 p.m.

Browse artists’ booths and enjoy live performances in downtown Chapel Hill during this arts-focused street market hosted by Chapel Hill Community Arts & Culture.

CHATHAM COUN TY

Pittsboro Pride Festival & Parade

Oct. 17-18, 2026 This weekend of fun, food, music, vendors and activities at The Plant invites the LGBTQIA+ community and allies to join in festivities including a drag show, dance party and parade.

Chatham Artists Guild Studio Tour

Dec. 5 & 12, 2026, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., and Dec. 6 & 13, 2026, noon-5 p.m.

Take a relaxing drive through Chatham County’s rolling hills and pastoral farmlands to visit more than 55 artists, learn about their processes and visions and browse affordable original works in studios that dot the countryside.

Reindeer Run

Dec. 12, 2026, 8 a.m.

Put on your antlers and most festive running gear for this annual race in Pittsboro. Younger runners may enjoy the 3⁄4-mile Rudolph fun run around Central Carolina Community College’s campus.

Proceeds from the race support physical activity grants that help create and expand opportunities for movement and healthy living across Chatham County.

D URHAM COUN TY

Pride: Durham, NC

Sept. 27-Oct. 3, 2026 The LGBTQ Center of Durham celebrates LGBTQ+ community, history, activism and pride in Durham and across North Carolina with Durham Pride Week 2026. One of the largest special events celebrating lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community members, families, and organizations,

Pumpkin Patch Express

Celebrate fall every Saturday and Sunday in October – take a train ride on the Ellerbe Creek Railway at the Museum of Life and Science, pick the perfect pumpkin to decorate and take home, then enjoy seasonal crafts and carnival games.

Halloween Phantasmagoria

Oct. 30, 2026, 6:30-9:30 p.m.

Wander Duke Homestead State Historic Site after dark and see what Victorianera wonders you find. Explore historical concepts of spiritualism and experience Halloween traditions from generations past. A one-of-a-kind Halloween experience not designed to scare!

Holidays in the Park

Select nights in December Dash your way through an enchanting rainbow light tunnel at the Museum of Life and Science’s largest annual fundraising event and holiday tradition. Stroll through shimmering pathways on the Dinosaur Trail, twirl in your socks on the synthetic ice rink, warm up with the butterflies in the Magic Wings Butterfly House and climb aboard the Ellerbe Creek Railway for a magical nighttime train ride.

Hanukkah Festival

Dec. 6, 2026, 2-5 p.m.

Celebrate the Festival of Lights with Jewish for Good at the Levin JCC. Enjoy kids’ activities, a menorah lighting, games and crafts, holiday foods for sale – including latkes – and learn more about the holiday.

Holiday Parade

Dec. 12, 2026 Watch dynamic floats and cheer on hometown bands, drill teams, schools, community groups and more as they make their way down Main Street in downtown Durham. Also enjoy holiday performances, food vendors and a visit from Santa.

Lucky Strike Tower Lighting

Dec. 12, 2026 The annual lighting of the Lucky Strike Water Tower at the American Tobacco Campus includes local performers, holiday music, festive lights and more.

TRI AN GLE-WIDE

A Christmas Carol

Enjoy a masterful comedic musical adaptation of the Dickens classic produced

by Raleigh’s Theatre in the Park. Don’t miss Ira David Wood IV in the role of Scrooge at both the Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts and Durham Performing Arts Center. 

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THIS IS AN AD FOR CARY ART DAZE , BU T W E CAN’ T FIN ISH I T W I T HO U T YOU.

Spring Daze and Lazy Daze bring live entertainment, great food, and dazzling art right into the heart of Cary, North Carolina. All that’s missing is you.

A U G . 2 2 –2 3 , 2 0 2 6

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AP RIL 24, 2027

@CA RYARTDA ZE

COLOR ME IN! Then share online using #ColorTheDaze and tag @CaryArtDaze so we can see what you create.

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ANNUAL EVENTS TR IA NGLE-W IDE Triangle Restaurant Week Jan. 25-31, 2027 Indulge in a weeklong celebration of culinary excellence during this biannual event that showcases premier restaurants in Raleigh, Cary, Durham and Chapel Hill. Participating establishments offer special threecourse menu options and fixed pricing, providing a great opportunity for residents and visitors alike to savor the Triangle’s finest cuisine.

WA KE CO U NTY First Night Raleigh Jan. 1, 2027 Ring in the new year in downtown Raleigh and watch the giant golden acorn drop at City Plaza – a timehonored tradition. Enjoy live concerts, a parade and even catch a bird’s-eye-view of the city’s streets atop a Ferris wheel. If you don’t want to stay up until midnight, catch the early countdown and fireworks.

Krispy Kreme Challenge Feb. 6, 2027 What started as a fun race among 10 friends is now a nationally publicized charity run held each February. The race begins and ends at the Memorial Belltower at NC State. Runners travel 2.5 miles through historic downtown Raleigh to the Krispy Kreme located at the intersection of Peace and Person streets, where they consume one dozen original glazed doughnuts and then run 2.5 miles back to the belltower. Proceeds from the race benefit UNC Children’s Hospital.

St. Patrick’s Day Parade March 13, 2027, 10 a.m.

The annual celebration in the heart of downtown Raleigh features a unique parade, dancers, bagpipers, decorated cars and floats, and more. Don’t forget to wear green!

O RA N G E COUN TY

January

1

noon

Kwanzaa Fest

The African American Dance Ensemble’s annual Kwanzaa festival at the Durham Armory focuses on family, friends and the fruits of the Earth. It takes place on the seventh day of Kwanzaa, which is dedicated to Imani, or faith. The event features a children’s village, dance and drumming classes, arts and crafts, food vendors, entertainment from dance ensembles and more. Donated canned foods and toiletry items will be given to a local nonprofit.

New Year’s Day 8K Run Jan. 1, 2027, 1 p.m.

Get moving after the holidays during the Carolina Godiva Track Club’s annual 8K run, starting and finishing at River Park in downtown Hillsborough. The trail follows along the Riverwalk with out and back sections to the Historic Occoneechee Speedway Trail and Gold Park.

Carrboro Film Fest Jan. 29-31, 2027 Catch independent flicks that showcase Southern culture, now taking place in the new Drakeford Library Complex.

The Chapel Hill-Carrboro Community Holiday Parade is an annual celebration of the towns’ diverse cultural and community traditions. This year’s parade takes place Dec. 5.

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Carolina Jazz Festival Feb. 25-27, 2027 Enjoy public performances by guest artists in residence, UNC Department of Music faculty, and students at the 50th anniversary of this festival celebrating all things jazz.

NCSSM Powwow Feb. 6, 2027, noon-5 p.m.

North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics in Durham hosts this exciting, inclusive, family-friendly day of traditional American Indian dancing, music, crafts, art and food from across North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia and beyond as a fun way to learn about and celebrate the region’s rich American Indian culture.

D URHAM COUN TY

Nevermore Film Festival Feb. 26-28, 2027 Created in 1999, this festival is a juried competition that showcases horror, science-fiction, mystery, thriller, animated and dark fantasy movies from around the world at the Carolina Theatre. More than 1,000 features and short films have screened at the festival in its 26-year run, and it has gained an international reputation as one of the premier genre festivals in the country. 

Hayti Legacy Kwanzaa Visit the Hayti Heritage Center in Durham for this cultural community event that includes a marketplace, workshops, movement and music classes, food vendors, performers, a candle lighting ceremony and a film screening.

PHOTO BY HUTHPHOTO

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ANNUAL EVENTS WA KE CO U NTY Art in Bloom March 17-21, 2027 This annual five-day floral fundraiser features the stunning creativity of floral designers from across the state and nation who interpret works of art in the North Carolina Museum of Art’s People’s Collection, all in support of the museum’s programming, special exhibitions and the NCMA Foundation Inc.

Live @ Lake Raleigh April 8 & 22 and May 6 & 20, 2027 Bring your picnic blankets and lawn chairs as NC State Live hosts this free, family-friendly sunset concert series celebrating the unique voices of North Carolina’s extraordinary music scene along the picturesque shoreline of Lake Raleigh.

Got to Be NC Festival May 14-16, 2027 This annual event is held at the N.C. State Fairgrounds in May and features food, wine and beer from across North Carolina, rides and games, farm animals, music and one of the largest displays of antique tractors and farm equipment in the Southeast.

PHOTO BY ASHLEY SHERROW, ASSORTED POPPIES PHOTO

Artsplosure – The Raleigh Arts Festival Explore this eclectic, awardwinning arts festival and market in the heart of downtown Raleigh that features approximately 175 fine artists and craftspeople exhibiting original works of art across multiple categories, including paintings, photography, pottery, jewelry, woodwork and more.

Kids enjoy free arts and craft activities at Kidsplosure, and a main stage hosts live performances.

Capital City Juneteenth Celebration Bring a blanket or low beach chairs to enjoy an afternoon of entertainment and food at Dorothea Dix Park as a part of this free, annual festival presented in partnership by the Capital City Juneteenth Committee, the City of Raleigh and Dix Park Conservancy.

Raleigh’s International Food Festival June 5, 2027 Celebrate Raleigh’s diversity, art, culture and traditions at City Plaza while enjoying food truck fare, desserts, beer and wine from around the world, with more than 50 countries represented. Stick around for one of the largest outdoor international dance parties with nonstop performances.

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June

5 Midtown Beach Music Series Dance the night away to classic beach music hits at North Hills’ Midtown Park during this community-building event where guests can enjoy live tunes, food, drinks and fun with their friends, neighbors and colleagues.

Walk for the Animals

Bring your furry friend to Duke University’s East Campus lawn for the 2027 Walk for the Animals, hosted by the Animal Protection Society of Durham.

There’s an easy 1.5-mile walk around East Campus (or a half-mile option for older pets), but that’s only the beginning! Enter your pet in hilarious contests; put them through their paces on the mini agility course; visit dozens of vendors, from doggy day cares to vets and other pet-supportive businesses; and more. All proceeds from the event support APS of Durham.

Historic Civil War Surrender April 2027 The year 2027 marks the 162nd anniversary of the Confederate surrender at Bennett Place State Historic Site.

Learn about the negotiations involved in the surrender and its impact on North Carolina with lectures and tours.

PHOTO COURTESY OF DURHAM PARKS AND RECREATION

Preservation Durham Home Tour Preservation Durham – with its mission to protect Durham’s historic assets – offers the public a glimpse into a different historic neighborhood or thematic group of historic properties each year.

Bimbé Cultural Arts Festival May 15, 2027, 1-7 p.m.

Durham Parks & Recreation hosts an afternoon honoring African and African American history, culture, arts, food and traditions at Rock Quarry Park. The annual festival, which is free and open to the public, was established in 1969 by a group of local students and community members to honor the West African festival of harvest and celebration. Remember to bring a lawn chair or blanket.

American Dance Festival Multiple dates, June-September 2027 One of the largest and most influential modern dance festivals in the world celebrates its 94th annual season with 22 choreographers and dance companies taking part in 40 performances across Durham. Dancers from both emerging and longstanding companies perform at

O RA N GE COUN TY

COURTESY OF THE NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL & CULTURAL RESOURCES

Triangle Race for the Cure April 2027 Run this 3.1 mile race hosted by the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation to raise money for breast cancer patients and research. The event at Boxyard RTP recognizes survivors and also provides people living with breast cancer the chance to gather and support one another.

Reynolds Industries Theater, Page Auditorium and in von der Heyden Studio Theater at the Rubenstein Arts Center.

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Carrboro Earth Day Celebration April 18, 2027, noon-4 p.m.

East and West Weaver streets close to traffic and host community activities from rock climbing to bicycling and more.

Elizabeth Cotten Freight Train Blues Select Fridays in May and June 2027 This concert series celebrates the life of Carrboro native and blues legend Elizabeth “Libba” Cotten. Enjoy free outdoor performances in May and June at Carrboro Town Commons.

Tar Heel 10 Miler April 2027 This race takes you through iconic downtown Chapel Hill, UNC’s campus and the surrounding historic neighborhoods – a true Carolina tradition!

Bennett Place Historic Site in Durham commemorates the April 1865 surrender negotiations between Union General Sherman and Confederate General Johnston each year with costumed living interpreters and historians.

Piedmont Farm Tour April 24 & 25, 2027 The Carolina Farm Stewardship Association partners with Weaver Street Market to bring visitors to farms throughout North Carolina’s Piedmont region as part of the nation’s largest sustainable farm tour. Bring a cooler to take home farm-fresh products.

Revolutionary War Living History Day April 3, 2027 Step back in time and experience the sights and sounds of the Revolutionary War as The Alliance for Historic Hillsborough hosts this day of familyfriendly events complete with live reenactors, dancers, historic tours, interactive activities and collaborative events throughout town.

Small Town Pride Commemorate Pride in June as the towns of Carrboro and Chapel Hill co-present a monthlong celebration that begins with the Chapel Hill Pride Promenade, a street market with live performances and art installations, and ends with the Carrboro Pride Dance Party / Fiesta del Orgullo de Carrboro featuring drag shows, food trucks, music, dancing, crafts for the kids and advocacy for the LGBTQ+ and Latinx community.

CHATHAM COUN TY ClydeFEST April 25, 2027 Chatham Arts Council puts on this free folk arts festival for the kids every April.

The event provides a screen-free day of art, games, performances, food and critter cut-outs – an homage to late folk artist Clyde Jones and his wooden creations.

Spring Chicken Festival May 1, 2027, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Shake your tailfeather at this free outdoor chicken-themed festival that takes place along East Second Street in Siler City.

TR IAN GLE-WI D E North Carolina Science Festival The monthlong, statewide festival presented by Morehead Planetarium and Science Center includes activities in Orange, Durham, Chatham and Wake counties that aim to spread science education through informative, fun, hands-on events like stargazing, Science Olympiad competitions and scavenger hunts. TW

PHOTO BY ANDREA AKIN

D U RH AM CO U NTY Durham Craft Market Saturdays 9 a.m.-noon through March 27 Shop handmade at Durham Central Park every Saturday morning! The Durham Craft Market is a member-operated collective of diverse, independent artisans who have been selling their handcrafted pottery, woodworking, fine art, jewelry and more alongside the Durham Farmers Market since 2006.

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n u F FREE

Check out these low- to no-cost activities throughout our towns

ARTS & CULTURE

By Rebekah Mann

Stop by Bynum Front Porch in Pittsboro for its Friday Night Music Series as bands take the outdoor stage from 7-8:30 p.m. every Friday from May to August, rain or shine. This event, which began in 2001 to support the Bynum General Store, celebrates the enduring community spirit of the former cotton mill village. Enjoy a variety of musical genres and fare from local vendors under the night sky. Feeling musical? Join in on the Bluegrass Jam Circle every second and fourth Saturday from 10 a.m-noon.

The RDU Observation Park invites visitors to experience the excitement of flight with extraordinary views of Raleigh-Durham International Airport’s 10,000-foot runway.

Soak in the sights and sounds of aircraft takeoffs and landings between 9 a.m. and sunset every day on the elevated observation platform, all while listening to pilot-tower communication dialogue from audio speakers. There’s also a picnic area, play zone, educational placards and a lawn.

The BeatBox stage at Boxyard RTP – a hub for dining, shopping and entertainment in Research Triangle Park built from repurposed shipping containers – hosts a game night every Wednesday and musicians Thursdays through Saturdays. Next door at Hub RTP, enjoy monthly Concerts on the Creek featuring regional artists in an open-air atmosphere. 

Historic Yates Mill County Park in Raleigh

features a restored gristmill that dates back to the 1700s and is on the National Register of Historic Places. The park’s variety of family-friendly public programs incorporate history, nature, agricultural and recreational topics.

Explore the Eno River’s vibrant blooms during guided hikes with the Eno River Association throughout the year. Starting locations vary and hikes are typically around 2 or 2.5 hours, suitable for adults and children accompanied by an adult. Almost 5,000 acres are protected and ready for you to discover.

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Experience the Ackland Art Museum in detail with free half-hour tours led by the knowledgeable staff. Gain fresh insights into the artwork from the museum’s newest exhibits during these lively sessions held multiple times a month. 

Join the approximately 100,000 people who visit the sunflower fields at Dix Park in July when they are in peak bloom. The park’s Gipson Play Plaza is the largest adventure playground in the Southeast, providing 18.5 acres of play structures made from natural materials, plus gardens, picnic areas and more.

Originally owned and operated as agricultural farmland, Beech Bluff County Park sits on 300 acres in southeastern Wake County. The community space features a multiuse lawn, a canopy walk and a playground.

The downtown Wake Forest Historical Museum offers a journey through the town’s rich history, showcasing artifacts and exhibits that illuminate its past and chronicle its evolution from humble beginnings to a lively present-day community.

The museum also provides self-guided and guided tours of the Calvin Jones House, the oldest building in Wake Forest’s Historic District at 414 North Main St. that was once a residence and boarding house.

Bring your lawn chair or picnic blanket for a Saturday afternoon of music during Concerts on the Creek.

Don’t miss out on

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Last Fridays in Hillsborough, a celebration of art, culture and community each month from April to October. No matter the weather, attendees can immerse themselves in a diverse range of activities from poetry readings and exhibit openings to live music at various venues.

“Deep Dive” by Clarence Heyward.

CLARENCE HEYWARD, AMERICAN, BORN 1983, DEEP DIVE, 2023, COLOR LITHOGRAPH. GIFT OF TONYA TURNER CARROLL AND TURNER CARROLL GALLERY, SANTA FE, 2026.1. © CLARENCE HEYWARD.

Create a design at Durham Central Park’s interactive Pixel Wall, catch some tricks at the skate park, explore its gardens or just relax.

DCP also hosts regular free-to-attend events like yoga, food truck rodeos, farmers markets and concerts, which are announced on the park’s website and Instagram account.

Get a taste of what goes into a sustainable signature cup of Joe at Counter Culture Coffee. Explore different beans and brewing options during a complimentary tasting Fridays at 10 a.m. in the company’s Mallard Avenue headquarters in Durham. TW

UNWIND WITH NORTH CAROLINA HISTORY AND STORIES Ease into your weekends with “The Broadside,” WUNC News’ Murrow Award-winning podcast that explores the extraordinary and unexpectedstories that make our state special — like how Morrisville became the cricket capital of the South, why fermented foods and drinks are flourishing on local menus, how North Carolina became the home of the synthesizer, and how a biotech firm in RTP might save the banana from extinction.

From the Blue Ridge Mountains to the Outer Banks, host Anisa Khalifa helps listeners unwind and discover North Carolina’s rich past, present, and future with stories from our home at the crossroads of the South.

SUBSCRIBE TO “THE BROADSIDE” TO ENJOY NEW EPISODES EVERY THURSDAY WUNC.ORG/PODCAST/THE-BROADSIDE

Photo Credit: Angelica Edwards, INDY

wunc.org/podcast/the-broadside

SPONSORED CONTENT

Discover the Impact of an Independent School Every child is unique, and so is every independent school.

What Are Independent Schools?

Independent schools are nonprofit, pre-collegiate schools governed by their own board of trustees. Each school is guided by a distinct mission, shaping its curriculum, culture, and approach to teaching and learning.

Free from external mandates, independent schools offer: • Small class sizes and individualized attention • Innovative curriculum • Unique missions • Accountability to families and accrediting bodies • A focus on the whole child: social, emotional, physical, and ethical development This results in an educational experience designed to meet students where they are and help them grow into who they are meant to become.

The Triangle Independent School Consortium

The Triangle Independent School Consortium (TISC) is the go-to resource for families exploring independent schools in the Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill region. We are a collaborative network of admissions professionals working together to provide clear, trustworthy guidance that simplifies the admissions process.

Go to www.tiscnc.com to learn more about what makes each TISC school unique.

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NTURE NTURE NTURE NTURE Explore parks, trails and play spaces, learn a new sport or or join a club PHOTO COURTESY OF MARC FORNES / THEVERYMANY

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ADVENTURE

Gipson Play Plaza

Gipson Play Plaza at Dorothea Dix Park is one of Raleigh’s newest family destinations, and invites kids to climb, splash and explore across more than 18 acres of imaginative outdoor play. Nature-inspired climbing structures, giant slides, swings, water features and accessible play equipment encourage children of all ages to stay active while taking in sweeping views of the Raleigh skyline. Thoughtfully designed gathering spaces and shaded seating make it just as enjoyable for parents as it is for little adventurers.

Bumble Brews Play Cafe

PHOTO BY JOHN MICHAEL SIMPSON

Part neighborhood coffee shop, part indoor playground, Bumble Brews offers the perfect blend of caffeine for grown-ups and imaginative fun for little ones. Designed primarily for children ages 6 and younger, the colorful play space features climbing structures, pretend play areas and plenty of room to explore while parents relax with specialty coffee, pastries or lunch. It’s an ideal rainy-day destination or weekday playdate spot.

Launch Family Entertainment

Marbles Kids Museum

Designed for children ages 1 through 10, Marbles Kids Museum transforms learning into play through interactive exhibits focused on imagination, science, engineering, art and everyday life. Kids can run a pretend town, create masterpieces, climb, build and explore while parents join in the fun. The museum is also home to Raleigh’s only giant-screen IMAX theater, offering educational films and blockbuster movies alike. Recent expansion projects have added even more opportunities for hands-on discovery.

North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences

The region’s largest natural history museum continues to delight curious minds of all ages. Explore hands-on exhibits about North Carolina’s ecosystems, watch scientists at work in the Nature Research Center and come face-to-face with dinosaurs, whales and other fascinating creatures. The museum’s immersive Dueling Dinosaurs exhibit allows visitors to examine real fossils and investigate one of paleontology’s most remarkable discoveries.

Regular educational programs, special events and 3D films make every visit unique.

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Morehead Planetarium & Science Center

Located in the heart of the UNC’s campus, Morehead Planetarium & Science Center has inspired generations of scientists, astronauts and curious learners. Visitors can experience immersive planetarium shows, interactive STEM exhibits and live science demonstrations while exploring topics ranging from astronomy and biology to public health and engineering.

The center also hosts popular skywatching events throughout the Triangle.

The Nest

North Carolina Children’s Museum’s The Nest space is designed to spark creativity, curiosity and hands-on learning with interactive exhibits where the smallest learners can build, create, experiment and imagine through play.

The environments, designed for newborns through kids age 5, encourage exploration in science, art and engineering while giving children the freedom to learn at their own pace. Throughout the year, families can also enjoy special programs, workshops, camps for ages 4-8 and parents’ night outs, making it a fun destination for both first-time visitors and regular explorers.

PHOTO BY JOHN MICHAEL SIMPSON

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Whether you’re bouncing across wall-towall trampolines, tackling a ninja course, soaring through the air on a zip line or challenging friends to laser tag, Launch Family Entertainment packs hours of indoor excitement into one destination. Younger visitors can enjoy dedicated toddler play areas, while older kids and adults can refuel with pizza, snacks and drinks before jumping back into the action. Birthday parties, arcade games and special events make it a favorite for families year-round.

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE RESEARCH TRIANGLE FOUNDATION OF NC

The Makery at Boxyard RTP

Operated by the North Carolina Children’s Museum, The Makery encourages creativity through handson crafting and experimentation. Visitors can work with crafting materials, sewing machines, digital fabrication tools and 3D printers while developing new skills and bringing ideas to life. The space welcomes makers of all ages and regularly hosts workshops and special programs.

Museum of Life and Science

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE MUSEUM OF LIFE & SCIENCE

One of the Triangle’s most beloved family attractions, the Museum of Life and Science combines science, nature and outdoor adventure across more than 80 acres. Visitors can meet black bears and red wolves, ride the Ellerbe Creek Railway, climb through treehouses at Hideaway Woods and experiment with hands-on exhibits focused on weather, aerospace, engineering and more. With indoor and outdoor experiences, it’s a destination families can enjoy in every season. 

ABOVE “From Here On: Shaping Our Future” invites museum visitors of all ages to dive into hands-on experiences that spark curiosity, conversation and new ideas about our changing planet.

LEFT Get an up-close look at more than a dozen life-sized dinos along the Museum of Life and Science’s Dinosaur Trail.

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PHOTO BY BRIANA BROUGH

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Notasium

Music, movement and play come together at Notasium, an interactive children’s music museum and learning center. Young visitors can experiment with instruments, climb, slide and explore the colorful space during open play sessions, while older children can take lessons in piano, guitar, drums, voice and more. Camps, classes and birthday parties make Notasium a year-round destination for creative families.

Hyper Kidz is a go-to destination for families looking to swap screen time for active, imaginative play. The Durham location features a bright, winter-wonderlandthemed indoor playground filled with soft foam equipment, gentle moving parts and plenty of space for kids to climb, crawl, slide and explore.

Designed to spark creativity while prioritizing safety, the 13,000-square-foot, climatecontrolled space encourages children to move, think, interact and let their imaginations run wild – no tablets, arcades or video games in sight.

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Unify Athletics

Rain or shine, kids can burn off energy at Unify Athletics, where open gym sessions transform a competitive cheer and tumbling facility into an exciting indoor play space.

Children can jump on trampolines, tackle obstale courses, swing, climb and practice gymnastics skills in a safe, supervised environment. TW

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PHOTO COURTESY OF JACKIE DODGE

Hyper Kidz

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Southern Community Park

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Chapel Hill Spanning more than 70 acres, Southern Community Park is a favorite for active families.

Its colorful playground sits alongside picnic shelters, athletic fields, pickleball courts, a disc golf course and the scenic Fan Branch Trail, making it easy to turn a quick playdate into a full day outdoors.

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Piney Wood Park

Durham This South Durham favorite offers something for every member of the family. With modern playground equipment, paved walking trails, athletic fields, picnic shelters and plenty of open space, Piney Wood Park is an ideal destination for climbing, running and relaxing all in one visit.

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and explore the modern playground or splash through the seasonal spray pad, while adults relax under the shaded pavilion or fire up the grills for a picnic.

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Sassafras All Children’s Playground

Raleigh This playground in Laurel Hills Park was thoughtfully designed for children of all abilities.

Accessible ramps, giant climbing structures, zip lines, sensory play features and inclusive equipment make it one of the most innovative playgrounds in North Carolina.

Kids Together Playground

Cary This playground has set the standard for inclusive play for more than 25 years. Designed so children of all abilities can play side by side, the 2-acre destination features accessible ramps, sensory experiences, imaginative play structures

and shaded gathering spaces that continue to delight generations of Triangle families.

Pullen Park

Raleigh Pullen Park offers far more than a playground – it’s one of the oldest amusement parks in the country. Kids can climb, swing and dig in the sand before hopping aboard the historic carousel, miniature train or pedal boats. With wide-open lawns, picnic areas and plenty of shade, it’s easy to spend an entire afternoon here.

John Chavis Memorial Park

Raleigh History and play come together at this revitalized downtown Raleigh landmark, which was added to the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places in 2016. The expansive playground features separate play zones for different ages, climbing structures, fitness equipment and an interactive splash pad. Don’t miss a ride on the beautifully restored carousel before exploring the walking trails and open green spaces.

Knight Farm Community Park

Pittsboro Nestled within Chatham Park, Knight Farm Community Park is a family-friendly gathering place designed for play, picnics and cooling off on warm Carolina days. Kids can climb

Top 10 PARKS & PLAYGROUNDS From towering climbing structures and splash pads to pickleball courts and scenic trails, these destination parks invite families to spend the day exploring, playing and making memories across the Triangle Photo by John Michael Simpson

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Kelly Road Park

Pleasant Park

Apex Apex’s newest destination park feels straight out of a storybook. The 1.5-acre “Enchanted Forest” playground features towering climbing structures, whimsical play villages, giant slides and accessible equipment designed for children of all ages and abilities. Add in sports courts, walking trails, splash features and picnic shelters, and it’s easy to see why families happily spend the whole day here.

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Apex Generations of Triangle families have grown up exploring Kelly Road Park’s beloved wooden castle playground. The sprawling park also features sports fields, walking trails, tennis courts and plenty of room for imaginative adventures that keep kids coming back year after year.

Downtown Cary Park

Cary Downtown Cary Park has quickly become one of the Triangle’s premier family destinations. At the heart of the 7-acre park is The Nest, where two giant cardinal-inspired climbing structures, colorful slides, nature play and a toddler area encourage imaginative fun. Families can cool off in the seasonal splash pad, enjoy public art and green spaces, or stick around for story times, concerts and community events. TW

NORTH CAROLINA’S ULTIMATE

kids museum

Explore our newest exhibit, Futuropolis!

Opening early 2027.

MarblesKidsMuseum.org 201 E Hargett St, Raleigh, NC 27601

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Go on a treetop journey with Go Ape Zipline & Adventure Park, an any-age-friendly zip line escapade that features a 200-foot zip line and 18 obstacles 25 feet off the ground. For kids 10 and older, the treetop adventure more than doubles the thrill with a 500-foot zip line and 41 obstacles in the tree canopies 50 feet high.

If your child has ever wondered what it would be like to drive as fast as a Formula One racer, Apex Racing Lab has their simulated racing experiences down to a science. Visitors can customize their vehicle, safely enjoy thrilling speeds and race their friends. Start your engine, or sip on a craft cocktail in the lounge while you wait.

A classic go-to for active fun, Wheels Durham offers an easy win for parents looking to get kids off screens and moving. Teens and tweens can lace up, skate with friends and burn energy in a lively, musicfilled indoor setting that feels both social and safe.

It’s an ideal spot for afterschool hangouts, weekend outings or spontaneous plans that keep kids engaged and active. Check out themed events like Kidz Bop, Hip-Hop and Family Skate Nights.

Durham Skate Park, located in Durham Central Park, is a 10,000-squarefoot gem for kids looking to try out new tricks (with proper helmets and pads, of course!). With a floating quarter pipe, launch boxes, a step-up bank, three stairwells with handrails, a street clam, and an 8-foot trog bowl, it’s the perfect place to be with a board.

Mount Merrill is close by, so younger attendees can play on slides, a climbing net and a boulder climb if skating isn’t their style.

Experience TreeRunner Adventure Park from the ground or in the boughs.

Kids can climb across many aerial courses connected by zip lines through a dense loblolly pine forest, or take on the 18-hole putting course on the forest floor.

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Photography by John Michael Simpson

PHOTO COURTESY OF XTREME PARK ADVENTURES

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BOREDOM BUSTERS

These activities will get teens and tweens moving

Xtreme Park Adventures offers a range of outdoor activities including airsoft, ATV adventures, ropes courses, paintball, zip lines and more. They also have tamer options like gel blasters (a softer, less messy alternative to paintball perfect for any age), gem mining and escape rooms for some risk-free fun.

Dick’s House of Sport feels less like a store and more like an indoor sports playground, where families can climb, swing for the fences or tee off – all before ever reaching the checkout counter.

The 100,000-square-foot experiential space blends shopping with movement and competition, inviting kids and adults alike to try new activities, test gear and connect through sport.

If your family game night is looking to expand its offerings, find a new game during Guildhall Games’ Board Game Day every Sunday at Boxyard RTP. Either bring your own favorite board game from home or make a selection from their library and try something new! Discover logic puzzles, strategy games and fast-paced competition for any skill level.

Frankie’s Fun Park is an epic adventure with a range of activities for any interest. Kids can play a round of mini golf, battle in bumper cars, hunt down their friends in laser tag and win arcade games. For those seeking an adrenaline rush, hop on their spinning roller coaster, ride the drop tower or board the claw to rotate and spin as you swing upside down! TW

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GET PHYSICAL Perfect your swing, throw a disc around or learn a new sport with these leagues and clubs Triangle Curling Club is a volunteer-run club that offers options for curlers at every interest and skill level, from younger players (juniors) to adults. Programs include classes focused on learning fundamentals as well as competitive leagues for members who are ready for gameplay. The club also offers a series of curling tournaments throughout each season.

BAS EBAL L Riptide Baseball & Softball Academy has indoor batting cages and pitching lanes next to the Durham Bulls Athletic Park. It offers group and individual lessons, clinics, facility rentals and travel teams for players up to age 18.

Baseball Rebellion is a 10,000-square-foot hitting and pitching training center in Raleigh that caters to all levels and features six HitTrax systems and self-feeding pitching machines, projected on 75-inch TVs, plus video analysis rooms for trainees to track their performance.

The batting cage also offers weeklong baseball and softball summer camps for kids ages 6-14.

Parkwood Ballfield, located at 5124 Revere Road, is a great place to play and practice. It’s located within Parkwood, one of Durham’s first large planned neighborhoods.

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SOCCER Practice your soccer skills in Wake County at Raleigh’s WRAL Soccer Park, a 122-acre facility – and one of the nation’s largest youth soccer complexes – with 22 soccer fields and an indoor fitness center. Or, enjoy 17 acres of full-size fields in Wake Forest at Smith Creek Soccer Center.

Sofive Soccer Centers Raleigh houses youth and adult leagues, clinics and camps, while Soccer Genome on Durant Road runs an academy, off-season training and clinics.

The North Wake County Baseball Association helps develop the skills of players ages 5-12 through spring, summer and fall programs at the Factory Baseball Complex in Wake Forest.

Spring registration opens in November and Fall registration opens mid June.

The Wake County Club Baseball League is an interscholastic baseball program that relies on volunteers to help Wake County Public School System middle schoolers prepare to play at the high school level.

PHOTO BY ERIC WATERS

Open to boys and girls ages 4-16, East Chatham Little League works in coordination with Chatham County Schools, local businesses, and the Chatham County Parks, Recreation & Cultural Resources Department to offer spring and fall baseball and softball. Games are played at various elementary and middle schools in Pittsboro and southern Chapel Hill.

Bull City Little League provides year-round baseball and softball leagues for various ages in Durham, as well as a rookie (T-ball) team and a volunteer program for former players. Spring registration is open January and Fall registration opens July.

Hillsborough Youth Athletic Association teaches competitive play and teamwork to boys and girls ages 4-16 in its tryout-free softball and baseball programs, which are run entirely by volunteers.

The Miracle League of the Triangle offers individuals with special needs ages 5 and older the chance to play baseball in a traditional organized sports format. Games are played at fields in Cary, North Raleigh and at the Durham Bulls Miracle League Park.

PHOTO BY ERIC WATERS

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Bull City Futsal Academy, founded by Durham native José Santibañez, offers futsal and soccer programs to underserved schools and communities, providing free training programs and resource fairs to young athletes and their families.

Chatham Soccer League offers recreational teams, academy teams for ages 7-10 and travel teams for ages 10-18 during its spring and fall seasons.

Housed on 400 acres of protected wetlands, Old Chatham Golf Club is a private club in Durham.

Topgolf offers a fusion of sports and entertainment with inclusive, high-tech golf games, delectable cuisine and vibrant music in a climate-controlled environment.

Located in the Downtown Wake Forest Historic District, the Paschal Golf Club is a public golf course with 9 holes where professional golfer Arnold Palmer played while attending Wake Forest University. His legacy is also felt at the Lonnie Poole Golf Course at NC State University, the only collegiate golf course in the world that he designed.

Raleigh’s Wildwood Green Golf Club has both men’s and women’s leagues.

Rainbow Soccer in Chapel Hill provides kids and adults with recreational soccer opportunities with an emphasis on skill development and fun.

Soccer Shots offers leagues for children ages 2-8 in the Raleigh-Durham area at preschools, child care centers and in neighborhoods and communities, providing free training programs and resource fairs to young athletes and their families.

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Located beside Duke University’s campus, the public Duke University Golf Club has more than 20 acres of practice facilities, a golf shop and driving range.

Try Hillandale Golf Course’s driving range before enjoying an 18-hole course designed by George Cobb. The course’s practice area features both natural and synthetic turf, and it hosts a large putting green for short game practice.

Formerly Willowhaven Country Club, the Umstead Pines Golf and Swim Club is equipped with an 18-hole golf course, swimming pool, tennis courts and clubhouse (private to members).

Test your skills at the unique layout of The Crossings Golf Club and the semi-private course’s famous island green 12th hole.

Hope Valley Country Club is home to a Donald Ross golf course as well as practice areas, racquet courts and swimming pools (private to members).

In Wake Forest, the semi-private Heritage Golf Course offers a driving range, private teaching tee and putting green.

Situated on one of the highest points in Wake Forest, Brevofield Golf Links offers a scenic view and a course for golfers of any skill level.

Dogwood Country Club in Raleigh is an immersive golf experience providing indoor and mobile golf simulation for individuals and groups, private lessons and more, all in a swanky setting with a full bar.

Gyros Cycling Club in Raleigh hosts rides at four difficulty levels for cyclists of any skill level with group rides 2-4 times per week.

North Carolina Bicycle Club hosts many community events, promotes safe road cycling and participates in rides across Wake County.

PICKLEBA LL Pickles and Play in Chapel Hill has seven ball courts and encourages both members and nonmembers to participate in league play.

Members enjoy free access to the fall league.

The Chapel Hill Community Center has open pickleball courts Monday-Saturday from 9 a.m.noon in its gym.

Adults can take part in free pickleball open play at Chatham Grove Community Center at 1301 Andrews Store Rd. on Saturdays from 2:30-4:30 p.m. and Sundays from 1:30-3 p.m.

Located southeast of UNC’s campus, UNC Finley Golf Course is home to collegiate tournaments, including 2024 NCAA regionals, and features a practice range.

Raleigh Parks Pickleball works with Raleigh Parks, Recreation and Cultural Resources, which operates 44 pickleball courts at 11 locations to support the growing sport.

Chapel Hill Country Club, the only private club in Chapel Hill, features 18 holes, scenic views and instruction from PGA professionals.

For over 100 years, members have enjoyed resort-style amenities including tennis, pickleball and aquatics.

The Raleigh-Cary Jewish Community Center hosts pickleball leagues, clinics, lessons and mystery partner tournaments at 12804 Norwood Rd. in Raleigh.

Occoneechee Golf Club is a public course in Hillsborough and is home to the Occoneechee Golf Association, which was founded in 1968.

Paddles Swim & Pickleball in Chatham Park offers members eight pickleball courts, a pool with six lap lanes and a kid pool.

Chatham County

The Durham Area Pickleball Players operates a Facebook group with more than 750 members and maintains a calendar of pickleball courts open for play in Durham. TW

Orange County

Check out the adult and junior golf lessons available at the golf academy at Siler City Country Club. The facility is now open to outside guests not accompanied by a member.

Check out our full list of Triangle run clubs!

The Golf Club at Chapel Ridge offers an 18hole course, practice range, short game area, clubhouse and golf shop in Pittsboro.

The Preserve at Jordan Lake Golf Club is a semiprivate Davis Love III signature course just south of Chapel Hill that offers coaching and lessons.

The nationally recognized Governors Club golf course is a gated golf community and private club in Chapel Hill.

PHOTO BY JOHN MICHAEL SIMPSON

PHOTO COURTESY OF DRIVE SHACK INC.

Drive Shack in Raleigh is a high-tech driving range with food, drinks, games and events.

Looking for something more leisurely (but still with the promise of a pint at the end)? Try The Glass Jug Beer Lab’s Team on Draft Road Cycling.

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Wake County

More than 5,000 mountain bikers are members of the Triangle Off-Road Cyclists, a group that advocates for more trails in the Triangle and offers clinics, trail workdays, group rides and races throughout the year.

CYC L IN G Bike Durham organizes and promotes many community events all around the Triangle centered on encouraging people to walk, bike and ride transit more often. Join them in Durham for their monthly community meeting and bike ride that starts and ends at Durty Bull Brewing Company on the fourth Monday of every month.

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UNIVERSITY PLACE Settle into the plush seats at Silverspot Cinema for your pick of a new movie, an anime classic or a Silverspot Selects throwback flick. Enjoy theater classics like popcorn and candy before the show, or sip on one of the theater’s signature cocktails at the bar. Craving a snack mid-movie but don’t want to get up? No problem – order menu items like Carolina barbecue nachos, chicken Caesar wraps and Margherita flatbreads directly to your seat.

Take a stroll through the Chapel Hill Farmers Market to peruse a wide selection of produce, meat, baked goods, plants, beverages, crafts and more, all from within 60 miles of Chapel Hill. The market is held Saturdays from 8 a.m. to noon and Tuesdays from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m., April through October (only Saturdays from 9 a.m. to noon in the winter), and makes a great outing for the whole family. Grab a Mexican treat from Sweet Drop Beverages & Desserts or a craft beer from Haw River Farmhouse Ales, and don’t miss live music every Saturday.

Grab a cone, a bowl or – if you’re really looking to indulge – a sundae at Jeni’s Ice Creams and enjoy it on the grassy outdoor patio or one of the swinging benches. Choose from a variety of more traditional flavors like honey vanilla bean and double dough, or enjoy the limited seasonal offerings in a buttercrisp waffle bowl. Curated specials make it easy to try something new when you can’t decide what to order. Best of all, you can take your fave flavors home in a to-go pint.

Get your fitness on at Solidcore with a 50-minute strengthtraining class focused on lowimpact, controlled movements and muscle building. Drop in for a single class or challenge yourself on one of the studio’s custom-built reformer machines, where signature blue lighting creates an energizing setting for a full-body workout.

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A local favorite got an upgrade in 2025 when Alfredo’s Pizza Villa moved from its longtime home at University Place to a nearby space on the first floor of the 900 Willow apartment building, expanding its seating in the process. With the move came a new name – now Alfredo’s Pizza & Brew – and craft beer on tap. Order a bestselling white pizza made with an olive oil base and topped with mozzarella, spinach, Roma tomatoes and feta, or tap into a local rivalry with Za Tarheel or the Blue Devil. And there is no shortage of rich, velvety treats – try the New York cheesecake or Italian cream cake for dessert.

Find a seat at the bar or, during patio season, on one of the comfy outdoor couches at Bartaco for a family brunch, a dinner date or a pals’ night out. Pick and choose from 15 signature tacos or opt for the tuna poke, street corn or Korean barbecue rib-eye rice bowl. Pair your main course with a watermelon mint margarita, red sangria or a cold Tecate, or choose an agua fresca or toasted coconut sparking water for a nonalcoholic refreshment. TW

PHOTO COURTESY OF BARTACO

ARTS & CULTURE

By Beckett Brantley Photography by John Michael Simpson

Enjoy a New York-style bagel without leaving town at H&H Bagels, which opened in January 2026 when owners Amanda Klein and Michael Klein (pictured) saw an opportunity to bring their favorite Manhattan bagel spot to Chapel Hill. The top-selling bacon, egg and cheese and the Nova salmon with tomato, onion and capers each provide an authentic bite of the Big Apple. And if you’re craving something sweet, the blueberry bagel with strawberry cream cheese is another fan favorite.

Some of the world's most extraordinary artists perform right here in Chapel Hill.

Music. Dance. Theater. Conversations.

Unexpected moments that stay with you long after the performance ends.

Located on the UNC-Chapel Hill campus, Carolina Performing Arts welcomes audiences from across the Triangle for unforgettable live experiences.

And—all students attend for just $11.

Explore the Season carolinaperformingarts.org

CAROLINA PERFORMING ARTS Dorrance Dance The Nutcracker Suite Photo courtesy of artist

SEE WHAT MOVES YOU Free admission for all. nasher.duke.edu Photo b� Samantha Everette