As part of our 2026 Longleaf Ramble event, come out to Harris Lake County Park for a guided wagon tour to our 60-acre Longleaf forest and walk among our beautiful Longleaf Pines! Learn about their special history to the area and the ecology of the Longleaf forest ecosystem, including the importance of prescribed fire. While you wait for your wagon ride, visit interactive educational exhibits from our organizational partners. Fun for all ages! Space is limited on the wagon. Meet at the wagon near the playground.
Schedule:
Sep 12, 2026
Saturday from 10am to 11:15am
Duration: 1 hour 15 mins
Ages: All ages,
WAKE · Harris Lake County Park - Meet at the wagon near the playground · Wake County Parks
Join us for this free, family event as we honor all things Longleaf Pine! Educational booths from our organizational partners will introduce you to this unique ecosystem and its critters and explain the importance of prescribed fire. Visit with live animals, enjoy Longleaf-themed games and crafts, learn the art of pine needle basket weaving (creations will also be available for purchase), and take a guided wagon tour to our 60-acre Longleaf Pine Restoration Area. Pre-registration is required for the wagon tours due to limited seating (register separately via this online system). Visit the Wake County Libraries Bookmobile, purchase a cool treat from Kona Ice of Western Wake, and take home your very own Longleaf Pine seedling! Extend your fun by bringing a picnic lunch and spending your day at the park. It's free for all ages! This event will take place at the Loblolly Shelter and on the open playfield.
Schedule:
Sep 12, 2026
Saturday from 10am to 1pm
Duration: 3 hours
Ages: All ages,
WAKE · Loblolly Shelter at Harris Lake County Park · Wake County Parks
Join one of our volunteer Garden Guides on the second Saturday of the month for a casual, one-hour guided tour of the North Carolina Botanical Garden. Discover the Garden’s native plant gardens and conservation mission while enjoying seasonal highlights, from spring wildflowers to fall color. Space is limited!
Fee: $6 ($5 Members)
REGISTER HERE
CHAPEL HILL · North Carolina Botanical Garden · NC Botanical Garden
While some critters are easy to spot, others want to stay hidden away! We will read A Color of His Own by Leo Lionni, create a camouflage craft, and learn why some animals do not want to be found through hands-on activities. For ages 3 - 5 with an accompanying adult.
Schedule:
Sep 12, 2026
Saturday from 10am to 11am
Duration: 1 hour
Ages: Age at least 3 yrs but less than 6 yrs,
WAKE · Beech Bluff County Park - Canopy Room · Wake County Parks
This annual celebration of community diversity promises to be a day of experience: international foods, kids’ activities, performances, and opportunities to learn about different countries. Join us for a great day of experiencing cultures!!
FUQUAY-VARINA · Fuquay-Varina Arts Center · Fuquay-Varina Parks & Rec
Join our training session to learn about feline healthcare and basic needs. This event will benefit both new cat owners and those looking to deepen their bond with their feline friends. Please do not bring your own cats to this session, that's too stressful for them. We're helping people build skills that they can take home to help their fabulous felines. Location: Orange County Animal Services, 1601 Eubanks Road, Chapel Hill, NC 27516 (the Community Room)
ORANGE · Orange County Animal Services · Orange County Calendar
Join us on Saturday, September 12 at 2 p.m. for an engaging tour around the property as we discuss the history of Oak View from plantation to park. You'll hear about the lives of the people – enslaved and free, landowner and landless – who lived, labored, and built community here for 150 years. Free and open to all ages, but best suited for upper-elementary and older. Registration is required for all participants.
Walk-up registration will be available day-of pending open spots. We will run the program rain or shine, so please come prepared with weather appropriate clothing. The tour will take place primarily outdoors and in non-climate controlled historic buildings, and includes standing and walking between buildings on paved brick paths.
Schedule:
Sep 12, 2026
Saturday from 2pm to 3pm
Duration: 1 hour
Ages: 7 yrs +,
WAKE · Historic Oak View County Park, Farm History Center · Wake County Parks
Join us for the Preview Party for the 38th annual Sculpture in the Garden exhibit!
Sculpture in the Garden (September 13 – December 6, 2026) unites the work of local artists with the landscapes of the North Carolina Botanical Garden.
At the Preview Party on Saturday, September 12, you’ll get first viewing of the show (and the first chance to purchase pieces), meet the artists, and enjoy a catered reception.
We’ll announce the winners of Best in Show and Honorable Mentions, selected by a jurist, and you’ll be able to cast your vote for the People’s Choice Award.
Tickets are $40 per person; half of each ticket price supports Sculpture in the Garden and is tax-deductible. Event is rain or shine. Attendance is limited, so register today!
Get tickets
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After the Preview Party on September 12, Sculpture in the Garden is free and open to the public during normal Garden hours (Tuesdays through Sundays, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.). Learn more and plan your visit
CHAPEL HILL · North Carolina Botanical Garden · NC Botanical Garden