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Instrument Petting Zoo

Date: Sun, Oct 18, 2026

Time: 2pm to 4pm

Venue: Gipson Play Plaza, Raleigh

Price: Free

Category: Family

Join us for an interactive, participatory music experience designed for all ages! This hands-on “instrument petting zoo” invites community members to explore, try instruments, and make music together in a welcoming, beginner-friendly environment. The program will feature performances by two youth quartets, followed by opportunities for the public to join in and play along. Easy-to-use instruments such as boomwhackers, bucket band percussion, hand percussion, and kazoos will be available so everyone can participate—no musical experience required. In addition to music-making, attendees can enjoy a sensory art activity by painting old instruments. Instructor: Raleigh Music Collective

Family · Raleigh

Instrument Petting Zoo

“No musical experience is needed to join in and try the instruments.”

When
Oct 18–Nov 8
Sun, Oct 18, 2026
2pm to 4pm
Where
Ages
Check ages with the venue
Price
Free
raleighfreefamily friendly

The Instrument Petting Zoo is a hands-on musical gathering where children can experiment with beginner-friendly instruments and participate in group music-making. Hosted by the Raleigh Music Collective, the afternoon begins with short performances by two talented youth quartets before opening up the floor for hands-on play. Kids can try out bucket drums, hand percussion, kazoos, and boomwhackers without any prior musical training. What to know before you go: The event takes place on Friday, September 4, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the Gipson Play Plaza in Raleigh. Admission is entirely free, and all materials for both the music-making and the instrument-painting art station are provided. Because the art portion involves painting actual retired instruments, it is wise to dress your children in clothes that can handle a few stray paint splatters. This is an excellent Friday afternoon outing because it combines outdoor play with creative expression. It gives kids a low-pressure environment to make noise, try something new, and burn off some energy before the weekend officially begins.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there an age limit for the Instrument Petting Zoo?
There is no age limit. The instruments provided, such as kazoos and bucket drums, are simple enough for toddlers to enjoy, while older children will appreciate the youth quartet performances and the instrument painting station.
Do we need to bring our own instruments or art supplies?
No, all instruments and painting supplies are provided by the Raleigh Music Collective at no cost to attendees.

Last updated

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Oct 18–Nov 8

Plan Your Visit

Schedule

Instrument Petting Zoo runs Sun, Oct 18, 2026, 2pm to 4pm.

Getting There

Gipson Play Plaza is at 715 Biggs Drive, Raleigh, NC. Open in Google Maps.

More events at Gipson Play Plaza →

What to Bring

Nothing but the kids — this one's free, with no tickets to buy.

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