NC State Campus, Raleigh • Saturday, Apr 27 · Free all dayFree

The peonies are absolutely ridiculous right now — I'm not exaggerating when I say this is peak arboretum season. Bring a blanket and let the kids run the gravel paths while you actually enjoy yourself for five consecutive minutes. They have a little waterfall area near the back that my youngest is convinced is magic.

Pullen Park, Raleigh • Sunday, Apr 28 · 10am–2pm

This one sells out fast so mark your calendar now. Local artists set up stations where kids can do real printmaking, not just finger-painting-on-a-paper-plate. My 7-year-old made a linocut last year that is genuinely hanging in our hallway. Worth every dollar.

Durham Central Park • Saturday, Apr 27 · 5–8pmFree

The farmers market wraps up around 1pm and then the live music crew takes over. This is peak Triangle spring — 72 degrees, shade trees, food trucks, music you actually want to hear. Pack a frisbee. Locals know this is one of the best free evenings all year and it somehow stays under the radar.