September 2024 Events in Raleigh You Don’t Want to Miss
Okay let us preface with saying, we love summer. But once August rolls around, we are so ready for some cooler weather & pumpkin flavored coffee. Plus as summer transitions into fall, Raleigh's event calendar gets packed with exciting happenings that showcase our city's vibrant culture, music, arts, and community spirit. Whether you're a local or just visiting, September is the perfect time to immerse yourself in the energy of the City of Oaks. Here’s a rundown of the must-attend events (happening in AND around Raleigh) this month.
Week of September 1st - September 7th
left image from @hopscotchfest on IG (📸 Bryan Regan) | right image from @firstfridayral on IG
When: September 5th - 7th
Where: Downtown Raleigh, NC
Cost: $175 to attend the entire festival
Kick off the fall season with one of the Triangle’s premier music festivals. Hopscotch brings a diverse lineup of artists to downtown Raleigh, offering a mix of indie rock, hip-hop, electronic, and more. Don’t miss this vibrant celebration of music and culture!
When: September 6th from 6pm - 9pm
Where: Downtown Raleigh, NC
Cost: FREE
On the first Friday of every month, downtown turns into an artsy wonderland, with galleries, studios, and museums opening their doors for free. You can check out local art, enjoy live music, grab some great food, and maybe even find a unique piece to take home. It's the perfect way to kick off your weekend.
When: September 6th from 5:30pm - 7:30pm
Where: Bond Park Boathouse in Cary, NC
Cost: FREE
For a more laid-back vibe, head over to Bond Park for Bands, Bites & Boats. This event combines live music, local food trucks, and scenic paddle boat rides. Whether you're looking to relax on the shore with some good food or take a boat out on the lake, this is a perfect way to spend a Friday afternoon.
The Art of Fashion: CAM Raleigh Fashion Show
When: September 7th from 6pm - 9pm
Where: CAM Raleigh Art Museum
Cost: $45 - $150
Fashionistas, this one's for you! The Art of Fashion at CAM Raleigh is where art meets runway. Local designers will showcase their latest creations in a setting surrounded by contemporary art. It’s a night of creativity, style, and plenty of inspiration, so dress to impress and enjoy a glam evening out.
Week of September 8th - September 14th
left image from Thriving in Raleigh | right image from @trianglepopup on IG
Juniper Level Botanic Garden Open House (first weekend)
When: September 13th - 15th
Where: Juniper Level Botanic Gardens in Raleigh, NC
Cost: FREE
Need a break from the city buzz? Escape to the Juniper Level Botanic Garden for their September Open House. This place is a hidden gem just outside of Raleigh, with over 28,000 plant varieties to explore. It’s the perfect spot for a peaceful stroll, whether you’re a gardening guru or just love being surrounded by nature.
The Market at Seaboard Station with Triangle Pop Up
When: September 14th from 10am - 3pm
Where: Seaboard Station in Raleigh, NC
Cost: FREE
A great way to support local businesses all in one place! This outdoor market is packed with vendors selling everything from handmade crafts to fresh produce. It’s a great way to spend your Saturday morning, shopping local and enjoying the lively atmosphere.
When: September 14th from 10am - 7pm
Where: NC Museum of Natural Sciences
Cost: FREE
Bug lovers, unite! BugFest is back, and it’s bigger than ever. You’ll find interactive exhibits, live bug displays, and even a Café Insecta where you can try some insect-inspired snacks. It’s a fun and educational event for the whole family, especially if you’re into creepy crawlies.
Week of September 15th - September 21st
left image from North Hills Website | right image from El Pueblo Website (both linked below!)
When: September 15th from 12pm - 6pm
Where: Fayetteville Street District in Downtown Raleigh
Cost: FREE
Get ready to fiesta at La Fiesta del Pueblo, Raleigh’s biggest celebration of Hispanic culture. This downtown event is a blast, with live music, dance performances, cultural exhibits, and a ton of delicious Latin American food. It’s a vibrant celebration that showcases the city’s rich Hispanic heritage, and it’s always a good time!
Juniper Level Botanic Garden Open House (second weekend)
When: September 20th - 22nd
Where: Juniper Level Botanic Gardens in Raleigh, NC
Cost: FREE
Need a break from the city buzz? Escape to the Juniper Level Botanic Garden for their September Open House. This place is a hidden gem just outside of Raleigh, with over 28,000 plant varieties to explore. It’s the perfect spot for a peaceful stroll, whether you’re a gardening guru or just love being surrounded by nature.
When: September 21st from 3pm - 9pm
Where: Midtown Park in North Hills
Cost: $10 for general admission & $35 for VIP
Music lovers, mark your calendars for Midtown Music Fest at North Hills. This festival is all about good vibes, with local and regional bands playing throughout the day. Bring a blanket, grab some food from the vendors, and enjoy the tunes in one of Raleigh’s most popular spots.
Week of September 22nd - September 29th
left image from International Bluegrass Music Association FB page | right image from @asianfocusnc on IG
IMBA World of Bluegrass Festival
When: September 24th - 28th
Where: Downtown Raleigh
Cost: visit website for ticket price breakdown
If you’re a fan of bluegrass, you can’t miss the World of Bluegrass Festival. This four-day event is a bluegrass lover’s dream, with top artists, jam sessions, and workshops all leading up to a huge street fair in downtown Raleigh. It’s the perfect way to soak up some traditional music and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
When: September 27th - 29th
Where: NC State Fairgrounds
Cost: $5
Travel the world without leaving Raleigh at the International Festival! This event is a celebration of the city’s cultural diversity, with performances, food, and art from all over the globe. It’s a day full of cultural exploration, where you can try new foods, learn about different traditions, and enjoy the festive vibes.
When: September 28th from 10am - 5pm
Where: Koka Booth Amphitheatre
Cost: $10 (free for kids 13 & under)
The perfect way to wrap up September! This festival is a colorful celebration of Asian culture, featuring traditional music, dance performances, martial arts demos, and an array of Asian cuisines. They will even have dragon boat races!
Fall in Raleigh is the best time of year and this is just the beginning! Make sure you mark your calendar for these can't-miss events!
For even more events to explore in Raleigh this September, be sure to check out our full events calendar!
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