Apart from the regular entertainment of local sports events and nightlife, Durham offers a variety of annual festivals and celebrations that draw large crowds from near and far.  If you’re a resident of the Triangle Area or plan on visiting, check out one of these events and spend a day or evening trying something besides the same old dinner and a movie routine.

The World Beer Festival held in Durham will take place this year on Saturday October 9 at the Durham Bulls Athletic Park.  With a mission set on educating the public about the beer culture, guests are invited to taste samples of a range of different beers.  They also place a focus on supporting the local community and host local bands and restaurants as part of the entertainment of the event.

One of the most renowned festivals in the area is the American Dance Festival which is a month and a half long event including performances and dance classes and schools.  This year’s festival is taking place from June 10-July 24.  A few notable performances include the African American Dance Ensemble, the Rubberbandance Group and Shen Wei Dance Arts.  Performances are held at the Reynolds Industries Theater and the Durham Performing Arts Center.

Another celebrated event of the city is the Taste of Durham Festival.  This annual event usually occurs in May and makes for a full day of food and fun.  Restaurant tastings as well as beer and wine sampling appeal to every palate.  Kids will find plenty to do with a mix of rides and exhibits for the little ones not so interested in culture and cuisine.  Art exhibits, ice sculptures, and a range of performers, showcasing everything from jazz to salsa to funk, pack this festival full of more activities than you could possibly fit into one day.