Annual Events in Durham You Need to Know About

Festival season never ends in Durham. Summer is packed with outdoor concerts, food fests, and Pride celebrations. Winter brings film festivals and holiday celebrations. Spring and fall have a little bit of everything! No matter your interests or hobbies, you’re sure to find a fun way to enjoy Durham every weekend of the year. Here are just a few of our favorite annual events:

February

Nevermore Horror and Gothic Film Festival

This three-day event celebrates everything macabre. Featuring new feature films, shorts, and old favorites, the festival showcases the very best of horror and suspense filmography. It takes place at the Carolina Theatre, giving you ample opportunities to grab dinner and a movie – the perfect date night out!

June

American Dance Festiva

Once deemed the “world’s greatest dance festival” by the New York Post, the ADF brings serious grooves to downtown Durham each summer. Two dozen dance companies participate, infusing the city with rhythm and grace – and a plethora of educational opportunities. If you’ve ever wanted to learn to salsa, try any number of classes and seminars put on by the ADF during the festival. Not one for dancing? Sit back, enjoy a few refreshments and watch one of the dozens of performances going on instead.

October

World Beer Festival

Each fall, Durham turns into a beer lover’s paradise. This event brings more than 250 breweries together from all around the world. Paired with live music and delicious food, these brews are sure to delight. You don’t have to be a certified hop head to enjoy the festivities, either – there are educational events dedicated to teaching the public about ingredients and pairings. The whole event goes down in the iconic Durham Bulls Athletic Park in downtown. We can’t think of a better way to enjoy a fall day!

November

North Carolina Comicon

Whether you’re a fan of comic books, superhero movies, or are eager to show off your latest cosplay creation, you’ve got to check out the North Carolina Comicon. This two-day event features panel discussions with the writers, illustrators and creators behind your favorite pieces of pop culture. There are few better places to get nerdy than downtown Durham!