Looking for fun things to do this weekend in Raleigh, Durham, Cary, Chapel Hill, and beyond? The Triangle is packed with free family activities, live music, festivals, and special events this Saturday, August 23, 2025. Whether you’re a foodie, art lover, music fan, or family looking for a day out, here’s your ultimate guide.

🍩 Morning Highlights

Krispy Kreme: Free Original Glazed Doughnut 📍 Multiple Locations | ⏰ All Day | 💲 FREE Celebrate Harry Potter Day in style! Wear any Harry Potter gear and get a free Original Glazed doughnut.

Durham Craft Market 📍 Durham Central Park | ⏰ 8:00 am – 12:00 pm | 💲 FREE Shop handmade goods from local artisans while enjoying the lively Durham Farmers’ Market atmosphere.

Intro to Gardening in the South 📍 JC Raulston Arboretum | ⏰ 9:00 am – 12:00 pm | 💲 FREE Learn how to make your Southern garden thrive with expert-led workshops.

Cary’s Lazy Daze Arts & Crafts Festival 📍 Downtown Cary | ⏰ 9:00 am – 5:00 pm | 💲 FREE A beloved Cary tradition showcasing artists, crafts, live entertainment, and food vendors.

🎨 Family-Friendly Fun

Marbles Museum’s Kick-Off to Kindergarten (Registration Required) 📍 Raleigh | ⏰ 9:00 am – 5:00 pm | 💲 FREE A special event for rising kindergartners with hands-on activities and school readiness resources.

Wake Forest Comic-Con 📍 Flaherty Park | ⏰ 10:00 am – 4:00 pm | 💲 FREE Celebrate comics, cosplay, and pop culture in Wake Forest.

Black History Walking Tour 📍 City of Raleigh Museum | ⏰ 10:00 am – 11:00 am | 💲 FREE Explore Raleigh’s history and heritage with this engaging guided tour.

We’re So Back: Moore Square Back-to-School Fusion Fest 📍 Raleigh | ⏰ 11:00 am – 3:00 pm | 💲 FREE Live music, community resources, and school supplies giveaway at downtown’s historic Moore Square.

🎶 Afternoon Entertainment

Packapalooza at NC State 📍 Hillsborough Street, Raleigh | ⏰ 2:00 pm – 10:00 pm | 💲 FREE A massive block party with food trucks, live bands, games, and entertainment celebrating the start of NC State’s school year.

23rd Annual Kirby Derby 📍 Dorothea Dix Park | ⏰ 3:00 pm – 9:00 pm | 💲 FREE Raleigh’s quirkiest race and festival featuring homemade soapbox derby cars, costumes, and community fun.

Night Market at North Hills 📍 Midtown Park, Raleigh | ⏰ 4:00 pm – 9:00 pm | 💲 FREE Stroll through local vendors, enjoy live music, and explore unique artisan goods.

🍷 Evening Vibes

CaryLive! Concert Series – Squirrel Nut Zippers 📍 Downtown Cary Park | ⏰ 7:30 pm – 9:30 pm | 💲 FREE Enjoy this high-energy swing band in Cary’s newest downtown park.

Saturdays in Saxapahaw Outdoor Concert Series 📍 Saxapahaw Post Office | ⏰ 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm | 💲 FREE Live music, river views, and a relaxed community vibe.

Hot Bucket Comedy Night 📍 The Common Market, Durham | ⏰ 7:00 pm | 💲 FREE Laugh the night away at one of the Triangle’s favorite stand-up comedy showcases.

Live DJ at Raleigh Beer Garden 📍 Raleigh | ⏰ 10:00 pm | 💲 FREE End your night with music, dancing, and one of the largest beer selections in the world.

Plan Your Triangle Saturday

From family-friendly mornings at museums and craft markets to block parties, live music, and nightlife, this Saturday in the Triangle is full of excitement. Whether you’re in Raleigh, Durham, Cary, Chapel Hill, or Wake Forest, you’ll find something special happening near you.

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