July starts off with a bang, but even after the fireworks end, there's plenty to do and celebrate in Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill, and the rest of the Triangle. Read on for a list of some of the top events in the Triangle in July. We focus on the "free and cheap" so many of these events will be easy on your wallet. Read about some highlighted events, or jump right to our day by day list … [Read more...] about Top things to do in July in the Triangle — big list of events!
Outdoors
Second Saturday Under the Stars with Raleigh Astronomy Club and Triangle Land Conservancy July 12
In general, on the first Friday of the month, Raleigh Astronomy Club is hosting a sky viewing session at Triangle Land Conservancy nature preserves. However, in some months the event happens on Saturday or a different Friday: Saturday Under the Stars Saturday, July 12, 20258:30 p.m.Three Bears Acres645 Beaver Dam Road, Creedmoor, NCFree, but registration is required. Raleigh Astronomy Club … [Read more...] about Second Saturday Under the Stars with Raleigh Astronomy Club and Triangle Land Conservancy July 12
Free fishing on July 4th in all public waters in North Carolina
July 4th is Free Fishing Day in North Carolina. Everyone in North Carolina, including visitors, can fish in any public body of water without the need for a license. North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission announced this event on Facebook. Other regulations, such as size limitations and lure restrictions, still apply. Use this fishing map to find public fishing spots. There are many … [Read more...] about Free fishing on July 4th in all public waters in North Carolina
Smithfield River Rat Regatta August 9
The Smithfield River Rat Regatta on the Neuse is scheduled for Saturday, August 9, 2025, at 10 a.m. Rain date is August 23. This is your chance to test your boat-making skills in a race on the Neuse River! Spots are limited. Participants may pre-register at Smithfield Parks & Recreation Department (600 M Durwood Stephenson Pkway., Smithfield, NC 27577) up until Thursday, August 7th. … [Read more...] about Smithfield River Rat Regatta August 9
Summer Solstice Hike at West Point on the Eno June 21, and more…
West Point on the Eno, at 5101 N. Roxboro Street, Durham, is a 404-acre natural and historic park located along a 2-mile stretch of the Eno River River, 6 miles north of downtown Durham. Scroll down for a list of upcoming events at West Point on the Eno. West Point on the Eno features: Several historic buildings are available to tour, including: The historic buildings are open and … [Read more...] about Summer Solstice Hike at West Point on the Eno June 21, and more…
Seeds of Freedom: Juneteenth Walking Tour at Oak View June 14 and 19
Historic Oak View County Park, 4028 Carya Drive, Raleigh, is free to visit. The park is a 19th-century historic farmstead, with a mission to interpret North Carolina's agricultural heritage and rural history via educational programs, special events and exhibits. Several goats live at Historic Oak View County Park, which makes it a unique destination in Wake County. Historic Oak View … [Read more...] about Seeds of Freedom: Juneteenth Walking Tour at Oak View June 14 and 19
Free “Gone Fishing” event for kids at Bass Pro Shops
Bass Pro Shops across the country are hosting Gone Fishing, a FREE fishing event for kids from June 6 to 8, and June 13 to 15, 2025. Gone Fishing will feature these activities like catch-and-release ponds and casting challenges. Activities vary by store. Kids will receive a free knot tying kit, while supplies last. Also, you can share your kids' favorite fishing photos and Bass Pro Shops … [Read more...] about Free “Gone Fishing” event for kids at Bass Pro Shops
Land & Harvest Festival with Triangle Land Conservancy June 14
Triangle Land Conservancy is hosting its first Land & Harvest Festival on Saturday, June 14, 2025, from 12 to 4 p.m., at Williamson Farm and Nature Preserve, 4429 Mial Plantation Road, Raleigh, North Carolina. Admission is free, but registration is required. The festival features: … [Read more...] about Land & Harvest Festival with Triangle Land Conservancy June 14
Chimney Swift Viewing in Fuquay-Varina with South Wake Conservationists June 1
You are invited to join South Wake Conservationists, as they visit a local roosting site to witness the incredible spectacle of migratory Chimney Swifts turning in for the night. These birds begin their roosting ritual after sunset. This free event takes place Sunday, June 1, 2025, from 8 to 9 p.m., at a local site in Fuquay Varina, with the specific details to be provided after you register. … [Read more...] about Chimney Swift Viewing in Fuquay-Varina with South Wake Conservationists June 1
Kindergarten Graduation Celebration at YMCA Camp Kanata May 18 — canoeing, outdoor games, more…
YMCA of the Triangle is hosting a Kindergarten Celebration on Sunday, May 18, 2025, from 2 to 5 p.m., at YMCA Camp Kanata, 13524 Camp Kanata Road, Wake Forest, North Carolina. This event is free for graduating kindergarteners and their families. Pre-registration is required. When you sign up, you'll be automatically entered to win a free year of the Y Guides father/child program. The … [Read more...] about Kindergarten Graduation Celebration at YMCA Camp Kanata May 18 — canoeing, outdoor games, more…