Free Things to Do in Raleigh with Kids This Weekend (October 17–19, 2025)

Looking for family fun without spending a dime? Fall is one of the best times to get outside in Raleigh, and October weekends are packed with opportunities to explore, play, and connect. At The Raleigh Rundown, we love keeping families in the loop about budget-friendly activities—and this weekend (October 17–19, 2025) is shaping up to be full of free fun. Here are your free things to do in Raleigh, NC this weekend:

Raleigh’s International Wine & Beer Festival

Looking for something fun to do while the kids are at home with a sitter? Make your way to Raleigh City Plaza on Saturday, October 18 for Raleigh’s International Wine & Beer Festival. This free-admission event runs from 12 PM to 8 PM and features more than 20 international wineries, over 20 types of beer, food and dessert vendors, and live music all day long. Even if you don’t plan to sample drinks, the atmosphere alone makes it worth a visit, with plenty of entertainment, dancing, and cultural flair right in the heart of downtown Raleigh.

John Lawson Legacy Days (Grifton, NC)

If your family doesn’t mind a short road trip, consider heading east for John Lawson Legacy Days, a free festival running October 17–19 in Grifton. This event celebrates local history with live demonstrations, kids’ activities, music, and more. It’s a unique chance to combine fun with education, and it won’t cost you a thing. Pack snacks, plan for a day outdoors, and enjoy the fall weather while your kids learn and explore.

Explore Raleigh’s Parks and Trails

Closer to home, Raleigh’s park system is one of the city’s greatest free resources. Umstead State Park offers miles of kid-friendly trails, while Pullen Park remains a classic family destination with open play areas and plenty of space for picnics. If your children enjoy biking or scootering, Dorothea Dix Park’s wide open lawns make the perfect weekend outing.

Library Storytimes and Activities

Wake County Public Libraries often host free storytimes, crafts, and activities for kids. These events are perfect for younger children who enjoy a structured activity and a chance to make new friends. Check your nearest branch for times—many of these events fall on Saturday mornings, making them a great start to the weekend.

Farmers Markets and Fall Fun

The State Farmers Market in Raleigh is always free to enter and offers plenty for kids to see and do. From colorful produce displays to seasonal decorations, it’s a sensory-friendly outing where children can learn about local food. October is also pumpkin season, so you’ll find markets full of gourds and fall décor. Even if you don’t buy anything, walking around is an experience in itself.

Free Arts and Culture Events (To Be Announced)

Raleigh is known for its vibrant arts scene, and free cultural events often pop up around this time of year. From outdoor concerts to gallery walks, stay up-to-date with our local event listings for the latest updates. These can be a great way to expose kids to music and art without the cost of a ticketed performance.

Evergreen Free Fun for Families

Even if no special event fits your schedule, Raleigh offers plenty of free, family-friendly options every weekend:

• Take a self-guided art walk downtown and explore public murals.

• Visit the JC Raulston Arboretum, where kids can enjoy exploring themed gardens.

• Stroll through Historic Oakwood for a peek at fall decorations and historic homes.

Plan Your Free Things To Do In Raleigh This Weekend

This October weekend is full of possibilities, whether you’re sticking close to home or taking a short trip to explore a free festival. Be sure to check back with The Raleigh Rundown as we update our event roundups with new activities. Subscribe to stay ahead of the latest family-friendly happenings in Raleigh, and never run out of ideas for making memories, without stretching your budget.