We are getting excited for Raleigh Wide Open! The Music Festival will take over Fayetteville Street, including the museum! We will be hosting interviews and book events on Friday, Oct. 2, and Saturday, Oct. 3. We hope to see you there! Friday, Oct. 2 - Interviews Jim Lauderdale. 4 - 4:30 p.m. The Fairfield Four. 4:30 - 5 p.m. Brek. 5 - 5:30 p.m. Earl White. 5:30 - 6 p.m. Location: City of Raleigh Museum Ages: All Cost: Free

After a fun summer of seeing some amazing local Durham talent perform on stage during the Summer Concert Series, Durham Parks and Recreation (DPR) is keeping the party going with an extraordinary lineup of movies for their Fall Film Series!

This bone-chilling event features carnival games, costume parades, and activities for all ages. Embark on a hair-raising adventure along the haunted trail, where creepy creatures lurk at every turn.

Durham Parks and Recreation (DPR) invites you and your four-legged best friend to Pupalooza, our newest fall event for pups and their people! Spend the day enjoying live music, creative activities, local vendors, food and plenty of opportunities to let your pup steal the show.

October 30 & 31, 2026 7:30 p.m. “Legends by Lantern” celebrates the numerous railroad legends in North Carolina folklore. Come join us for “Legends by Lantern” where we trace the stories and tales of North Carolina Transportation folklore. Beginning at the Barber Junction Visitor’s Center, the lantern-light tour will visit numerous buildings on site. Join our guides and learn about tragedies of the past, and the rumors surrounding them. If you enjoy lantern tours and old-fashioned legends, this tour is definitely for you.

“Well, are you coming?” Inspired by the hit movie, this holiday favorite comes to life as you and your family take a magical trip on THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride! Set to the sounds of the motion picture soundtrack, families are sure to enjoy their trip to the North Pole, complete with hot chocolate and cookies served on board the train. Passengers are entertained by a reading of Chris Van Allsburg’s classic, The Polar Express. Upon arrival at the North Pole, passengers deboard to watch Santa present the first gift of Christmas. Before exiting the train at Candy Cane Lane, all passengers who BELIEVE will receive their own sleigh bell. Experience the joy of caroling and holiday entertainment that will surely become an annual family tradition. Children of all ages are encouraged to wear their pajamas for the ride and join in on the magic of Christmas!

After a fun summer of seeing some amazing local Durham talent perform on stage during the Summer Concert Series, Durham Parks and Recreation (DPR) is keeping the party going with an extraordinary lineup of movies for their Fall Film Series!

Guided nature hike for ages 13+. Join a park naturalist on a general nature walk to see what is happening at the park this fall.  Come prepared for trail walking because we’ll visit various parts of the park to discover the peak fall highlights! Pre-registration is required.

Introduction class for ages 13+. You don’t have to be an expert to enjoy birdwatching!  We’ll start with the basic observational skills you’ll need to help you identify the birds at your feeder.  After observing a bird feeder, we’ll go on a short walk in search of birds in the park.  Bring your own binoculars, or we also have some to borrow. Pre-registration is required.

Join us for an evening of holiday fun with your canine friends. Bring your pup out to meet Santa and get photos with your pet! This event also includes a canine holiday ugly sweater contest, holiday pet market, and canine food and toy drive.

This December 12, join us at City Plaza in Downtown Raleigh for a festive, European-inspired holiday experience filled with international flavors, unique gifts, seasonal treats, live entertainment and family fun. Shop for one-of-a-kind gifts from around the world, enjoy international food and holiday favorites, warm up with hot chocolate and explore a large selection of international wine and beer. Families can enjoy kids crafts, letters to Santa, Christmas carols and festive activities throughout the day. Come celebrate the season, explore the world and create lasting holiday memories in the heart of Raleigh.