North Carolina Jerk Fest is a free, family-friendly celebration of Jamaican independence and culture. It takes place Saturday, August 9, 2025, from 2:30 to 8 p.m., at Durham Central Park, 501 Foster Street, Durham, North Carolina. The festival features: … [Read more...] about NC Jerk Fest at Durham Central Park August 9 — Jamaican Independence Celebration
Even more free and cheap stuff to do
North Carolina State Capitol: free guided tours on Saturdays
Please note that on January 11, the Capitol won't be open because of the inauguration. The North Carolina State Capitol, at One East Edenton Street, Raleigh, North Carolina, is open for visits. It will be open for free guided and self-guided tours. Visitors are welcome to take a self-guided tour any time between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, and between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. on … [Read more...] about North Carolina State Capitol: free guided tours on Saturdays
Visit Raleigh Fire Museum 2nd Saturday of month (for free)
Raleigh Fire Museum, 105 Keeter Center Drive in Raleigh, is open just one day a month to the public, although tours can be scheduled other times. If you'd like to just walk in, though, come by the second Saturday of the month, between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. It's free to visit. See photos and artifacts that tell the story of the history of firefighting. This is a small museum but it has hundreds … [Read more...] about Visit Raleigh Fire Museum 2nd Saturday of month (for free)
The Fall Line in Zebulon — Halloween Small Business Market, Trick-or-Treating and more on Oct. 18
The Fall Line, at 114 North Arendell Avenue, Zebulon, North Carolina, is a bar that offers many events throughout the month. You can find the events on their calendar and Facebook page. Food trucks are on site most days. Upcoming Events Alley-Ween Halloween Small Business Market and Trick or TreatingSaturday, October 18, 20253 to 7 p.m.Free Shop from a market of small businesses. Bring … [Read more...] about The Fall Line in Zebulon — Halloween Small Business Market, Trick-or-Treating and more on Oct. 18
Raleigh Wide Open — new bluegrass festival Oct. 3-4
Raleigh Wide Open is a new bluegrass festival coming to Raleigh October 3 and 4, 2025. It is presented by PNC Bank and produced by PineCone. Raleigh Wide Open continues the tradition started by IBMA World of Bluegrass, which took place in Raleigh for several years. Raleigh Wide Open is a FREE street festival, with music on multiple stages, food and drink, art vendors, and family fun. … [Read more...] about Raleigh Wide Open — new bluegrass festival Oct. 3-4
National Night Out Celebrations in the Triangle
National Night Out is a national community-building event that takes place the first Tuesday in August. (Although not all the National Night Out events happen that day.) National Night Out started in 1984, and now takes place in 16,000 communities. Events are held all over the country to enhance the relationship between neighbors and law enforcement. At National Night Out events, you'll … [Read more...] about National Night Out Celebrations in the Triangle
National Night Out Celebrations in Raleigh Aug. 5
City of Raleigh National Night Out Events The Raleigh Police Department is going to be visiting many neighborhood National Night Out celebrations on August 5, 2025. Here is a list of Raleigh National Night Out neighborhood celebrations. The list includes the neighborhood, address and time. If you live in one of the neighborhoods, please stop by! … [Read more...] about National Night Out Celebrations in Raleigh Aug. 5
Open Mic with Live Band Slim’s Raleigh on Tuesdays — sing or play any instrument!
Slim's Downtown Raleigh, at 227 S Wilmington Street, Raleigh, North Carolina, has a rich history spanning 25 years. It's considered to be a hidden gem dive bar, with affordable drinks and lots of good times. Slim's frequently hosts live music, often with no cover. You can see upcoming events on their website calendar or Facebook page. Upcoming Events New Orleans Night: Sean Hobbes & … [Read more...] about Open Mic with Live Band Slim’s Raleigh on Tuesdays — sing or play any instrument!
National Night Out in North Hills Aug. 5
North Hill is hosting a National Night Out celebration on Tuesday, August 5, 2025, from 5 to 7 p.m., at The Commons, 4160 Main at North Hills, Raleigh, North Carolina. This is a free event. Activities typically include: … [Read more...] about National Night Out in North Hills Aug. 5
National Night Out in Smithfield Aug. 5
The Smithfield Police Department is hosting a National Night Out celebration on Tuesday, August 5, 2025, from 5 to 8 p.m., at Smithfield Community Park, 600 M Durwood Stephenson Highway, Smithfield, North Carolina. Meet local first responders and enjoy free food and activities. The free event includes: … [Read more...] about National Night Out in Smithfield Aug. 5