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Triangle festivals are coming back strong! After most were canceled in 2020, many have been rescheduled for the fall of 2021. Read on for a list of festivals taking place this summer and fall.
We focus on free and cheap events here on Triangle on the Cheap, and all of these events fall into that category. Make sure to click each link for details like location, time, and any cost. We expect many more to be announced soon, and we’ll update when they are. But everything is subject to change if the public health situation shifts.
Looking for even more free things to do in Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill and beyond? Scroll down for a list of FREE upcoming events in the Triangle the next two weeks–updated every day!
Double-Check Before You Head Out!
We make every effort to make sure that everything on Triangle on the Cheap is 100% accurate.
However, sometimes things change without notice, and it's also possible that we can make a mistake. In addition, we can not guarantee that all events adhere to the safety measures that are necessary at this time, so we encourage you to ask any questions of the organizer, to make your best decision, and to stay safe.
Please verify all deals and events with the venue or organizer before you go.
The 4th of July is over, but the summer is not. Here are some of the best summer and fall festivals in Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill and beyond. Saturday, August 14th, 2021 Competitors will race home-made cardboard boats on the Neuse River. The race is followed by awards and live music. The race is from the Boat Ramp, at 295 Front Street, Smithfield, to the Hwy 70 Bridge. Sunday, August 15th, 2021 This festival is always a good time! The best of the Triangle's food vendors will be there, offering up seafood, Jamaican, vegan, Mexican, BBQ, and much more. Saturday, August 28th, 2021 This festival celebrates Raleigh's culinary and cultural diversity, with food and drink, as well as performances, from many countries. August 28th, 2021 This festival celebrates North Carolina's farming culture and history, It features live music, local arts and crafts vendors, hands-on history, and more. Saturday, August 28th, 2021, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. The 45th Annual Lazy Daze Arts & Crafts Festival will feature over 300 artists, live music, children's activities, and food and drink vendors. August 28th and 29th, 2021. 12 p.m. until dark This annual sculpture show is fun, free and family-friendly. Explore both serious and whimsical sculptures by many area artists. Saturday, September 4th, and Sunday, September 5th The African American Cultural Festival is returning as an in-person event but is spreading out, with two days of family activities, vendor village and main stage entertainment. September 11th, 2021 This Johnston County festival will feature live music, children's activities, food trucks, antique cars, and much more. It starts with a 9/11 remembrance ceremony. Friday, September 17th, 2021 Veteran cooking teams will be competing for top BBQ honors. There will also be live music and art vendors. Saturday, September 25th, 2021 This festival features live entertainment, authentic cuisine from around the world, kids' activities and a raffle. Saturday, September 25th, 2021 This fall festival features live music, a kids' performance area, fun games and interactive exhibits, local food and craft beer, arts and crafts, and a pie-eating contest. October 3rd, 2021 The festival will feature Durham’s international community, with cultural booths, food trucks, musicians, dancers, raffles, souvenirs, and games with prizes. Durham has 9 sister cities around the world! October 9th and 10th, 2021 Raleigh's Arts Festival is returning, with work from more than 175 juried fine artists and craftspeople. There will also be many music performances and arts activities. October 14th to 24th, 2021 Rides, music, entertainment, livestock competitions, and lots of food.Summer and Fall Festivals in the Triangle
4 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Free
1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Durham Central Park
501 Foster Street Durham
Free (pay for your food)
12 p.m. to 1 p.m.
City Plaza, Fayetteville Street, Raleigh
10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Duke Homestead, 2828 Duke Homestead Road, Durham
Free
Sunday, August 29th, 2021, 12:30 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Cary Town Hall Campus, Downtown Cary
Free
Saturdays in September, 3 p.m. until dark
JimGin Farm, 150 Wild Horse Run, Pittsboro
Free
Various locations in Raleigh
Free
Downtown Four Oaks
Free
Saturday, September 18th, 2021
River Park, 144 East Margaret Lane, Hillsborough
Free
11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
J. Ashley Wall Town Square, 99 W. 3rd Street, Wendell
Free
9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
West Chatham Street, Cary
Free
11 a.m to 5 p.m.
Durham Central Park
Free
Downtown Raleigh
NC State Fairgrounds
$10 for adults and $5 for youth, but read more to learn about discounts and free admission
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