Fall weekends in the Triangle are packed with local flavor, live entertainment, and community fun and this year is no exception. From spooky movie nights under the stars to lively markets and colorful street festivals, there’s something happening in every corner of the region. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly outings, live music, or a taste of North Carolina’s creative spirit, these upcoming events are worth adding to your calendar.
Movies on the Lawn | Raleigh
Get ready for a spooktacular night under the stars as Dorothea Dix Park and the North Carolina Museum of Art team up for a Halloween celebration you won’t want to miss!
Kick off the evening trick-or-treating alongside the park’s famous Thomas Dambo trolls, then enjoy local food vendors serving up fall favorites before settling in for a double feature on the big screen. The lineup includes Tim Burton’s whimsical Frankenweenie (PG) followed by the thrilling Halloween (R) starring Jamie Lee Curtis.
Event Schedule:
🕔 5:00–6:00 PM | Trick-or-Treating & Family-Friendly Activities
🎬 6:20–7:45 PM | Frankenweenie
🎥 8:00–9:45 PM | Halloween
Bring your blankets, costumes, and Halloween spirit for a night of movies, treats, and memories under the stars.
Want to get involved? Volunteers are needed to help keep the park fun, safe, and clean for all. It’s a great way to give back while celebrating one of Raleigh’s favorite community traditions.
👻 Learn more and sign up to volunteer here.
NC Whirligig Festival | Wilson
Get ready for one of North Carolina’s most colorful fall traditions: the North Carolina Whirligig Festival in Downtown Wilson! This beloved event brings together art, music, food, and community for a weekend of family-friendly fun.
With around 40 food vendors each year, you’ll find everything from Wilson favorites to regional specialties, so come hungry and ready to sample your way through the festival. Beyond the food, there’s something for everyone to enjoy: live artists creating in real time, four stages of local musicians and bands, an exciting Kids Zone, and interactive art experiences that capture the spirit of creativity.
All festival activities and entertainment are free to enjoy, making it the perfect weekend outing for all ages.
✨ See the full lineup of vendors, performers, and festivities on the official Whirligig Festival Website.
Cary Underground Market | Cary
If you love live music, local makers, and community vibes, the Cary Underground Market is the perfect way to spend a Sunday afternoon. Hosted by The MAKRS Society and Oak City Music Collective, this monthly market brings together the best of Cary’s creative scene from local artisans and food trucks to live bands and interactive workshops.
Taking place the first Sunday of every month from March through December 2025, the event runs 12–4 p.m. at Bond Brothers Beer Company (202 E. Cedar Street). Enjoy live music from talented local bands starting at 1:30 p.m., shop from more than 45 local vendors, and grab a bite from rotating food trucks serving up something new each month.
Families will love the welcoming atmosphere, complete with face painting and hands-on workshops for all ages. And the best part? It’s free to attend, making it an easy addition to your weekend plans.
Whether you’re a Cary local or exploring the Triangle for the day, the Cary Underground Market is a must-visit celebration of community, creativity, and local flavor.
Interested in being a future vendor? Learn more here!
From Durham to Cary to Wilson, the Triangle is alive with events that showcase the best of local culture, creativity, and community connection. So grab your friends, bring the family, and get ready to make the most of the season. For more events and insider guides, come back next week for your ultimate weekly inspiration.
