Looking for the best things to do across Raleigh, Durham, Cary, Chapel Hill, and beyond this Friday? From art walks and ghost tours to Oktoberfest celebrations and live music, the Triangle has something for everyone. Whether you want family-friendly fun, free outdoor concerts, or nightlife adventures, here’s your go-to guide for Friday, September 26, 2025.

🌿 Family & Outdoor Events

Families have plenty to enjoy this Friday with free outdoor activities. At the JC Raulston Arboretum in Raleigh, kids and parents can celebrate Take a Child Outside Week with an all-day self-guided scavenger hunt, a fun way to explore nature together. Later in the evening, head to Carolina Square in Chapel Hill for Movies Under the Stars, where Tim Burton’s Frankenweenie will be shown from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m.—just bring a blanket and settle in for a magical night under the sky.

🍻 Oktoberfest & Seasonal Festivals

The Triangle is brimming with festivals and fall celebrations this Friday. In Raleigh, Oktoberfest at Ponysaurus Brewing Co. offers festive brews and good cheer, while Durham hosts the all-day OctoBullFest at Bull City Burger & Beer from 11:11 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Over in RTP, Oktoberfest at Boxyard runs from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m., filling the evening with lively entertainment. For music lovers, Sanford’s Carolina Indie Fest takes place at Hugger Mugger Brewing from 5:00 to 10:00 p.m., featuring a night of free live performances.

🎶 Concerts, Arts & Culture

Friday is packed with cultural and community events across the Triangle. In Durham, the Pride Durham: Justice Concert & Rally takes over CCB Plaza from 5:00 to 9:00 p.m. Meanwhile, Cary hosts the Final Friday Art Loop and Gallery of Artists Reception from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m., and Hillsborough comes alive with the Last Fridays Art Walk during the same hours. For performing arts, head to Chapel Hill for PlayMakers’ free performance of King James at 7:30 p.m., or experience the energy of Discover Dance: K-Pop Night at Downtown Cary Park from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. To end the evening on a rhythmic note, join the One Tribe Final Friday Drum Circle with fire spinning at the Old Cary Library Site from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m.

🍷 Tastings & Unique Experiences

The Triangle brings a mix of tastings and unique experiences. Start with a free wine tasting with Sommelier Matt Weiss at Taylor’s Wine Shop from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m., then head to Local 919 in Raleigh for another complimentary tasting at 6:00 p.m. For something playful, join Plant Bingo at TCB in Fuquay-Varina at 6:30 p.m., or dive into nostalgia with Video Game Night at Moon Dog Meadery in Durham, running from 7:00 to 11:00 p.m.

🎤 Live Music & Comedy

If you’re looking for laughs and live entertainment on Friday night, the Triangle has plenty to offer. Kick things off in Durham with Live Band Karaoke at Mystic Farm from 7:00 to 10:00 p.m., where your $10 ticket includes a cocktail. Over in Fuquay-Varina, Dueling Pianos Night starts at 7:00 p.m. at The Mason Jar Lager Company, offering a free, high-energy show. Comedy fans can head to Durham’s Durty Bull Brewing for a free Stand-up Comedy Open Mic from 8:00 to 11:00 p.m., or catch A Good Time: Stand-Up Comedy Showcase at Vault Craft Beer in Raleigh at 8:00 p.m. If you’re ready to close out the night in style, don’t miss the Durham Pride Drag Show at Boxcar Bar + Arcade, starting at 9:00 p.m. and free to attend.

👻 Spooky Season Specials

Spirits of Wake Forest Ghost Walks 6:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. | $20 | Downtown Wake Forest

✨ With so many free and affordable events happening tonight, you’re sure to find something that matches your vibe. Whether it’s Oktoberfest brews, art walks, ghost tours, or karaoke under the stars, the Triangle is alive this Friday night.

Your week, your city, your fun — stay connected with everything happening in the Triangle at DoRaleigh.com