Got To Be NC Festival

Where: NC State Fairgrounds, Raleigh

When: Friday – Sunday, May 16 – 18

Got To Be NC Fest is a celebration of local farmers and will have a wide array of local vendors selling delicious food, drinks and more. There will also be activities representing the state’s agricultural heritage and history as well as arts vendors, exhibits and demonstrations.

Artsplosure

Where: Downtown Raleigh

When: Saturday, May 17, Sunday, May 18

Artsplosure is THE arts festival in Raleigh. It’s the city’s long-running, yearly eruption of artistic creativity and energy, centered around Fayetteville Street. There will be free musical performances by a range of musicians and over 175 visual arts and crafts booths at the market, interactive art installations, all sorts of other performers and much more.

Bimbé Festival

Where: Rock Quarry Park, Durham

When: Saturday, May 17, 1 – 7 pm

In its 55th year, the Bimbe Cultural Art Festival “is a celebration of African and African American history, culture, arts, and traditions.” There will be live music by local groups, arts and crafts, delicious food, community resources and more.

Animazement

Where: Raleigh Convention Center

When: Friday – Sunday, May 23 – 25

Animazement is Raleigh’s premier Japanese animation and cultural convention. There will be live performances, artwork, dancing, videogames, vendors, food and much more.

Carrboro Bluegrass Festival

Where: Cat’s Cradle, Carrboro

When: Saturday, May 24

The inaugural Carrboro Bluegrass Festival will take place in the backyard of music venue Cat’s Cradle and will feature a full day of great music.

NC Sugar Rush

Where: City Plaza, Fayetteville St, Raleigh

When: Sun, May 25, 12 – 6 pm

An array of local dessert vendors will take over Fayetteville Street for 6 hours. If you love sweets this is a great time to try all sorts of creative and delicious treats. There will also be live performances and other activities.

Hands-On Preservation Festival

Where: Hillsborough Visitor Center

When: Saturday, May 31, 10 am – 3 pm

“Meet local preservationists, artisans, and history-minded organizations as they showcase the many ways we keep the past alive—from restored artifacts and tools of the trade to hands-on activities designed for all ages. Whether you’re a history buff or just curious, there’s something for everyone to explore!” And check out all that Hillsborough has to offer while you’re at it!