Top Winston Salem/North Carolina Family-Friendly Summer Activities to Enjoy Together
- courtneycottone29
- 1 day ago
- 11 min read
Summer is the perfect time to create lasting memories with your loved ones. The warm weather and longer days open up a world of opportunities for families to bond, explore, and have fun. Whether you prefer outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or simple community gatherings, there is something for every family to enjoy. This guide highlights some of the best family-friendly summer activities that will bring joy and excitement to your season.
Discover Exciting Family-Friendly Summer Activities in the Triad and NC
Summer offers a variety of activities that cater to all ages and interests. From festivals to outdoor sports, these events provide a chance to connect and make the most of the sunny days. Here are some popular options to consider:
Outdoor Movie Nights: Many communities host free or low-cost outdoor movie screenings in parks or public spaces. Bring blankets, snacks, and enjoy a family-friendly film under the stars.
and
Winston-Salem
have robust outdoor movie and music scenes, primarily centered around local parks and the downtown arts district.
Outdoor Movie Nights
Lewisville's
and Winston-Salem's
are the top spots for free cinema under the stars.
Starlight Movie Nights (Lewisville): Held at
, these events are free and family-oriented. They typically begin at sunset, and families are encouraged to bring blankets and lawn chairs.
Bingo & Concessions: Most movie nights include Bingo games at 6:00 PM hosted by local Girl Scouts before the film starts.
2026 Season Kickoff: The town has announced its 2026 season; check the Town of Lewisville Events Pagefor the specific film lineup as spring approaches.
Innovation & Cinema (Winston-Salem): Hosted at
in the Innovation Quarter, this series pairs outdoor movies with local food trucks.
Atmosphere: These events are free and often themed around specific musical or cult-classic genres.
Movies in the Park (Kernersville): Nearby
also hosts a summer movie series starting at sunset.
Town of Lewisville, NC +4
Live Music & Concert Series
From weekly acoustic sets to large-scale park concerts, the area offers various ways to enjoy live music outdoors.
Lewisville Live! Concert Series: This series transforms
into an open-air music venue.
Details: Features a rotating lineup of artists and on-site food trucks. These events are free and community-focused.
Parks Concert Series (Winston-Salem): The Arts Council and Forsyth County present free, family-friendly concerts at
and other area venues.
Experience: Includes food vendors and interactive art activities. Attendees are welcome to bring picnics (though no outside alcohol is permitted).
Picnic in the Park (Winston-Salem): On the second Wednesday of each month,
hosts local artists performing a mix of genres like rock, country, and Afrobeats from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM.
Farmers Markets and Food Festivals: These events are great for tasting fresh, local produce and trying new foods. Kids can learn about where their food comes from and even participate in cooking demos.
Upcoming Food Festivals & Special Events
These events often feature live music, specialized food vendors, and dedicated kids' areas.
Spring Jam
Date & Time: Saturday, March 7, 2026 | 12:00 PM
Location: The Porch | Kitchen & Cantina, 840 Mill Works St, Winston-Salem
Type: Food & Music Festival
Description: Features live music, margaritas, tacos, and a wing showdown. Includes yard games, making it a casual, family-friendly choice.
Food Truck Rodeo
Date & Time: Every Tuesday starting March 17, 2026 | 5:00 PM
Location: Musten & Crutchfield, 245 N Main St, Kernersville
Type: Weekly Food Truck Rally
Description: A recurring weekly gathering of various food trucks, offering a rotating selection of local eats in a relaxed setting.
M&C Spring Folly
Date & Time: Saturday, May 2, 2026 | 10:00 AM
Location: Musten & Crutchfield Food Market, 245 N Main St, Kernersville
Type: Spring Festival
Description: Features over 70 local vendors and multiple food trucks for a large community-style gathering.
Date & Time: First weekend in May (May 1–3, 2026)
Location: Downtown Kernersville
Type: Street Festival
Description: One of the largest festivals in the South, featuring over 200 vendors, a dedicated kids' workshop area, magicians, rides, and two live music stages.
Date & Time: April 25–26, 2026
Location: Winston-Salem Fairgrounds
Type: Cultural Food Festival
Description: A celebration of Asian cuisine and culture held at the Fairgrounds arena.
Greek Festival at the Annunciation
Date & Time: Typically mid-May (Previous: May 16, 2025)
Location: 435 Keating Dr, Winston-Salem
Type: Cultural Festival
Description: Famous for authentic Greek food, live entertainment, and traditional dancing. A highly rated event for showing kids international heritage.
AXS +4
Local Farmers Markets
Most Winston-Salem markets transition from winter to spring hours in March and April.
ClosedWinston-Salem, NC10.8 mi
A producer-only market with a vibrant atmosphere.
Winter Hours (through March):Saturdays, 9:30 AM – 12:00 PM.
Spring Hours (April – December):Saturdays, 8:30 AM – 12:00 PM.
Location: 1007 Marshall St SW, Winston-Salem.
Winston-Salem Fairgrounds Farmers' Market
The city's longest-running market.
Hours: Saturdays, 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM (Year-round).
Location: 2532 Farmers Market Way, Winston-Salem.
Details: Features over 40 vendors selling seasonal produce, meats, honey, and handmade crafts.
Regional state-run market with an on-site cafe.
Hours: Open Daily, 6:00 AM – 7:00 PM.
Special Event: Makers Market on Sunday, March 29, 2026, featuring curated gifts and Triad small businesses.
Location: 2914 Sandy Ridge Rd, Colfax.
ClosedDowntown Winston-Salem10.3 mi
A newer community-driven market downtown.
Hours: First Sunday of each month, 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM.
Location: Trade Street (between 5th and 6th St), Winston-Salem.
Nature Hikes and Wildlife Watching: Explore nearby trails or nature reserves. Look for guided tours that teach children about local plants and animals.
North Carolina offers diverse landscapes for family-friendly hikes, ranging from coastal marshes to mountain forests, all with excellent opportunities for wildlife watching. Many of these trails are
easy and relatively flat, making them ideal for young children and casual explorers.
Top Trails for Wildlife Spotting
Cowan’s Ford Wildlife Refuge Road
(Charlotte Area): This 3.5-mile easy route is a premier birding spot. The Observation Platform offers views of over 200 bird species, including nesting osprey and winter waterfowl.
Theodore Roosevelt Nature Trail
(Pine Knoll Shores): A 1.3-mile easy loop located near the NC Aquarium. It winds through maritime forest and salt marshes, providing sightings of coastal birds and local wildlife.
Four Mile Creek, Deer Creek, & Squirrel Lake Loop
(Greenville Area): This 2.5-mile easy loop uses boardwalks to traverse wetlands and hardwood forests. Families can often spot beavers and white-tailed deer.
Flyway Marsh Trail
(Manns Harbor): An easy 1.3-mile out-and-back trail maintained by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. It is a fantastic spot for seeing otters, osprey, and wood ducks.
Muddy Creek Greenway
(Winston-Salem Area): A 4.0-mile trail that passes through both woodlands and meadows. You can expect to see wild turkeys, herons, kingfishers, and various songbirds like cardinals and bluebirds.
Best Parks for Families
Park Wildlife FocusTop Kid-Friendly Trail
cougars
(0.4 mi) - easy stroll for small kids.
, river critters
River Trail
(0.5 mi) - flat path for looking for critters.
Alligators
turtles
(2.0 mi loop) - boardwalk through ancient swamp.
rare birds
(3.8 mi) - shaded forest path.
Tips for Wildlife Hikes
Visit the Visitor Centers: Many parks, like
Howell Woods, have centers with injured hawks and owls or native gardens that guarantee a wildlife encounter for kids.
Look for TRACK Trails: These are specifically designed for kids and offer brochures for activities like "Salamander Safaris".
Bring Gear: Binoculars for birding and bug repellent for wetland trails are highly recommended, especially in warmer months.
Amusement Parks, Water Parks Museums and more:
Winston salem and the Triad offer a range of immersive museums and seasonal water facilities, from a massive new interactive science center to traditional public pools and splash pads. Museums & Interactive DiscoveryWinston-Salem's museum scene is centered on hands-on learning and living history.
Image of Kaleideum
Kaleideum
4.6
(646)
Museum
ClosedDowntown Winston-Salem10.4 mi
Kaleideum (Downtown): This nearly 70,000-square-foot facility opened its new five-story building in February 2024. It blends science, art, and technology through exhibits like Wonders of Water, Little Learners for toddlers, and an expansive rooftop play experience.
Image of Old Salem Museums & Gardens
Old Salem Museums & Gardens
4.6
(907)
Local history museum
ClosedWinston-Salem, NC10.8 mi
A world-class living history museum where families can explore the 1766 Moravian settlement. Kids can visit a working Winkler Bakery, see traditional trades like pottery and gunsmithing, and participate in hands-on "please touch" exhibits.
Image of Nido & Mariana Qubein Children's Museum
Nido & Mariana Qubein Children's Museum
4.9
(1K)
Children's museum
ClosedHigh Point, NC25.9 mi
Qubein Children’s Museum (High Point): Located about 18 miles away, this highly-rated museum features a massive water station, an outdoor merry-go-round, and spacious imaginative play areas.
Image of Reynolda House Museum of American Art
Reynolda House Museum of American Art
4.6
(814)
Art museum
ClosedWake Forest University8.1 mi
While primarily an art museum, it hosts Summer Adventure Camps for grades K–9 and features beautiful, free-to-visit gardens perfect for family strolls.
Reynolda
Reynolda
+7
Water Parks, Pools & Splash Pads
Most public water facilities in Winston-Salem operate from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day.
Instagram
Instagram
+1
Winston Waterworks: The city's primary water park, featuring a 675-foot lazy river, a large water playground, waterslides, and a lap pool. Admission is affordable, with kids 17 and under costing approximately $2.
Peter S. Brunstetter Aquatic Center (Tanglewood Park): A popular spot in Clemmons with a lazy river, slides, a diving board, and a dedicated "kiddy pool" area with water-squirting features.
Bolton Pool: The city's largest public pool, offering three diving boards, a separate splash pad area, and shaded seating.
City Splash Pads: Open daily from May 1 through September 25, free spraygrounds are available at several parks, including Hathaway Park (which also has a large playground) and Sprague Street Splash Pad.
Indoor & Regional Amusements
Urban Air Adventure Park
A year-round indoor playground with trampolines, a ninja adventure course, and a zip line.
Image of Adventure Landing Winston-Salem
Adventure Landing Winston-Salem
4.1
(862)
Amusement park
ClosedWinston-Salem, NC8.0 mi
A family entertainment center in Winston-Salem offering mini-golf, an arcade, and bumper boats.
Image of Carowinds
Carowinds
4.4
(31.8K)
Amusement park
North Carolina
Carowinds (Charlotte): Located about 1.5 hours away, this is the region's major amusement park featuring over 60 rides, a massive water park (Carolina Harbor), and Camp Snoopy for younger children
Community Parades and Cultural Festivals: Winston-Salem and Lewisville offer a busy calendar of family-friendly parades and festivals during the spring and summer of 2026. These events typically feature live music, food truck rodeos, and dedicated kids' zones.
Spring Festivals & Parades (March – May 2026)
Forsyth Creek Week: A week-long celebration with interactive water-themed events county-wide.
Date: March 21–29, 2026.
Family Highlights: A Jamboree at Fourth of July Park (March 22), an Eco Expo at Miller Park (March 24), and free fishing at Salem Lake (March 27).
Piedmont Earth Day Fair: Hosted at the Winston-Salem Fairgrounds, this is the region's largest Earth Day event.
Date: Saturday, April 18, 2026 (10:00 AM – 4:00 PM).
Description: Features environmental exhibits, live performances, and a kids' zone. Admission is free.
Kernersville Spring Folly: A massive street festival in downtown Kernersville.
Date: May 1–3, 2026.
Highlights: Over 200 vendors, carnival rides, a kids' workshop area, and two live music stages featuring bands like Camel City Yacht Club.
Winston-Salem Greek Festival: A beloved cultural tradition at the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church.
Date: May 15–17, 2026 (Confirmed as May 29–31 by some sources; check official site closer to date).
Experience: Authentic cuisine, guided church tours, and traditional dance performances by local youth groups.
Winston Salem Greek Festival +7
Summer Festivals & Parades (June – August 2026)
PrideWS Festival & Parade: A vibrant community celebration in the Downtown Arts District.
Date: Saturday, June 13, 2026 (Starting at 10:00 AM).
Features: A parade through downtown, a food truck rodeo, and family-friendly festival activities.
Juneteenth SOULebration: Commemorating freedom with cultural exhibits and music.
Date: Friday, June 19, 2026.
Location: Triad Cultural Arts leads celebrations featuring Afrocentric culinary selections and merchandise.
Independence Day Celebration: Lewisville hosts a major patriotic event at Shallowford Square.
Date: July 4, 2026.
Activities: A tribute concert with a Presentation of Colors, local food trucks, and a fireworks display.
International Black Theatre Festival: A world-renowned biennial event drawing 65,000 visitors to downtown Winston-Salem.
Date: July 27 – August 1, 2026.
For Families: Includes youth programming, a vendor's market, and spoken word poetry performances.
Winston-Salem Open: An ATP 250 tennis tournament held at Wake Forest University.
Date: August 22–29, 2026.
Vibe: Professional sports atmosphere that often includes fan zones and family activities leading up to the US Open
These activities not only entertain but also educate and encourage family members to spend quality time together.
What events do you celebrate as a family?
Every family has unique traditions and celebrations that bring them closer. Summer is an ideal time to create or continue these special moments. Here are some ideas to inspire your own family celebrations:
Birthday Parties with a Summer Twist: Host a pool party, picnic, or backyard barbecue to celebrate birthdays in a fun and relaxed setting.
Holiday Celebrations: Independence Day, Memorial Day, or other national holidays often feature fireworks, parades, and community events perfect for families.
Family Reunions: Plan a gathering with extended family members to catch up and share stories. Consider renting a cabin or organizing a potluck picnic.
Seasonal Traditions: Start new traditions like a summer scavenger hunt, a day at the beach, or a family sports tournament.
Volunteer Together: Participate in community service projects such as park cleanups or charity runs to teach children the value of giving back.
By celebrating together, families strengthen their bonds and create cherished memories that last a lifetime.
Explore Local Festivals and Outdoor Adventures
Summer is festival season in many areas, offering a wide range of family-friendly events. These festivals often include live music, arts and crafts, food vendors, and activities designed for children. Here are some tips for making the most of these outings:
Plan Ahead: Check event schedules and maps to prioritize activities that interest your family.
Pack Essentials: Bring sunscreen, water bottles, hats, and comfortable shoes to stay safe and comfortable.
Engage Kids in Planning: Let children choose some activities or foods to try, making the experience more exciting for them.
Capture the Moments: Take photos or keep a summer journal to document your adventures.
Stay Flexible: Be prepared to adjust plans based on weather or energy levels.
Outdoor adventures like kayaking, biking, or visiting botanical gardens also provide excellent opportunities for family fun and learning.
Tips for Enjoying Family Summer Events Safely and Comfortably
To ensure everyone has a great time, it’s important to prepare for summer outings with safety and comfort in mind. Here are some practical recommendations:
Stay Hydrated: Carry plenty of water and encourage regular drinks, especially during physical activities.
Protect from the Sun: Use broad-spectrum sunscreen, wear hats, and seek shade during peak sun hours.
Dress Appropriately: Choose lightweight, breathable clothing and comfortable footwear.
Pack Snacks: Bring healthy snacks to keep energy levels up and avoid long waits for food.
Set Boundaries: Establish meeting points and rules for children in crowded places.
Know Emergency Contacts: Have a list of local emergency numbers and a first aid kit handy.
Respect Nature and Others: Teach children to leave no trace and be considerate of other event-goers.
By following these tips, families can enjoy summer events with peace of mind and focus on making memories.
Making the Most of Your Summer Together
Summer is a season full of possibilities for families to connect and enjoy each other’s company. Whether you attend a lively festival, explore the great outdoors, or simply relax with a backyard barbecue, the key is to be present and engaged. Consider creating a summer bucket list with your family to include a mix of activities that everyone will enjoy.
Remember, the best family summer events are those that bring joy, laughter, and a sense of togetherness. So, get out there, explore, and make this summer one to remember!
For more ideas and inspiration on family summer events, check out local community calendars and event listings.
