Our Guide to the Best Arts Events This Fall

Our curated list of can’t-miss concerts, exhibits and more

Compiled by Sophia Herndon

Retro Film Series Through December – The Carolina Theatre presents Friday night double features – as well as Wednesday night features, Sunday matinees and weekend series – filled with retro nostalgia. Highlights include “Mean Girls” and “Legally Blonde” Aug. 21, “Body Double” and “Raising Cain” Sept. 25, and “Casper” and “Beetlejuice” Oct. 23. This blast-from-the-past event includes door prize giveaways and classic movie trailers before every film.

Contemporary British Art Through July 4, 2027 – Explore the vitality and range of contemporary art in England through works by emerging and established artists at the Nasher Museum of Art at Duke University. The exhibition – which features works by artists including Michael Armitage, Lynette Yiadom-Boakye, Michaela Yearwood-Dan and Thomas Houseago – explores themes of identity, intimacy, politics and current events through painting, sculpture and mixed media.

Explosion! Bay Area Punk Aug. 8, 2026 – Jan. 3, 2027 – Experience the raw energy of the late 1970s and early ’80s punk movement at the Nasher Museum of Art at Duke University. This exhibit examines how San Francisco’s underground music scene fueled a wave of rebellious visual art, featuring prints, photographs, drawings and publications that capture punk’s anti-establishment spirit and anarchical ethos.

Jenny Blazing Aug. 20–Sept. 12 – Discover new mixed-media paintings by the Durham artist in this featured exhibition at 5 Points Gallery. Inspired by the landscapes and changing light of North Carolina, Jenny combines layered imagery, collage and painterly abstraction to create evocative works that explore place, memory and connection. Third Friday opening reception takes place from 6-9 p.m. Aug. 21.

Where Cultures Meet: Chamber Music by American Women Aug. 30, 3 p.m. – Celebrate the rich cultural influences shaping contemporary classical music with Mallarmé Music. This program features works by acclaimed contemporary composers Jessie Montgomery, Gabriela Lena Frank and Reena Esmail, whose works blend diverse musical traditions in performances for strings and flute.

Fall Film Series Sept. 5, Oct. 3 & Nov. 7, 7:30 p.m. – Durham Parks and Recreation presents this free, family-friendly outdoor series at Durham Central Park. Bring your blankets, lawn chairs and favorite people to enjoy classic movies under the stars in the heart of downtown. This year’s lineup includes “Zootopia 2,” “Beetlejuice” and “Best in Show.” Local food trucks will be on-site serving up tasty bites, and we also heard there will be free popcorn!

OutSouth Queer Film Festival Aug. 13-16 – The Carolina Theatre hosts the second-largest LGBTQ+ film festival in the Southeast, showcasing 145 films. Now in its 31st year, the annual cultural arts event aims to bring Durham together and celebrate the LGBTQ+ community with screenings of documentaries, shorts and feature-length movies.

Alison Brown Quintet Sept. 11, 7:30 p.m. – Grammy Award-winning banjo virtuoso Alison Brown brings her quintet to The Blue Note Grill for a fully seated show that blends bluegrass, jazz and folk. A member of the American Banjo Museum Hall of Fame, she recently teamed up with fellow banjoist Steve Martin on the album “Safe, Sensible and Sane.”

Shirlette Ammons: ‘Language Barrier’ at 10 Sept. 17, 7:30 p.m. – Celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Durham poet, musician and producer’s groundbreaking album at Duke University’s Page Auditorium. The kickoff of Duke Arts Presents’ season, the evening reunites Shirlette with collaborators and special guests, including vocalist Lizz Wright, singer-songwriter Rissi Palmer, folk artist H.C. McEntire and multiinstrumentalist Phil Cook, for a one-night-only performance of the full album.

The Monti: A Century of Stories from the Carolina Theatre (1926-2026) Sept. 17, 8 p.m. – Celebrate the Carolina Theatre’s centennial through unforgettable true stories inspired by the historic venue. Hosted by live storytelling nonprofit The Monti in Fletcher Hall, this special evening reflects on 100 years of performances, films, milestones and memories that helped shape Durham’s cultural landscape.

Jim McKeon Sept. 17–Oct. 10 – Experience the distinctive vision of this painter during his featured artist exhibition at 5 Points Gallery. Drawing inspiration from his travels, observations and lifelong engagement with the visual world, Jim’s work balances technical skill with creative exploration, inviting viewers to look more closely at the beauty and complexity of everyday experience. Third Friday opening reception takes place from 6-9 p.m. Sept. 18.

Abyss Sept. 18, 9 p.m.–2 a.m. Dive into a night of relentless beats as Kinetic Audio returns to The Fruit. Built for Durham by Durham, the late-night techno experience features Gennaro, Buridan, Dead Language and Poetic Note spinning around the collective’s 360-degree HOLO stage, all powered by its signature 40,000-watt sound system. Expect immersive visuals, high-energy sets and a dance floor that keeps moving well into the early morning hours.

Oakwood Sept. 19, 8 p.m. – Catch the emo revival favorites at Motorco Music Hall as the band tours behind its 2026 album, “Blurred Away.” Camping in Alaska and Empty Parking Lot join the lineup.

CenterFest Sept. 19-20 – Durham Arts Council’s premier arts festival is back for its 51st year in the heart of downtown. Juried artists from across the Triangle and beyond exhibit their work in mediums including ceramics, paintings, photography, jewelry, fiber art, woodwork, glass and more. Watch unique street performers, musicians and dancers, visit the kids zone, grab a snack from food vendors, and learn more about Durham’s nonprofit and government services

‘The Velocity of Autumn’ Sept. 26-27 & Oct. 3-4 – RedBird Theater Company opens its season with Eric Coble’s heartfelt comedy about family, aging and reconciliation. When an outspoken 80-year-old artist barricades herself inside her Brooklyn home, a long-awaited reunion with her estranged son sparks laughter, conflict and unexpected tenderness. Catch it at the new Skin and Bones Theater.

Emma Jane Livingston/Brian K & The Parkway/Juliana Finch Oct. 1, 7:30 p.m. – Three rising indie acts share the bill at The Pinhook for an evening that spans dreamy indie-pop, heartland rock and introspective singer-songwriter sounds. Catch Durham’s own Emma Jane Livingston, Richmond-based Brian K & The Parkway and Juliana Finch as they bring fresh original music to one of the Bull City’s favorite intimate venues.

Major Oct. 2, 7:30 p.m. – Experience the power and precision of HBCU-inspired majorette dance in this new dance-theater work by interdisciplinary artist Ogemdi Ude that features six Black femmes exploring memory, movement and the enduring legacy of majorette culture in a co-presentation by the American Dance Festival and Duke Arts Presents at Reynolds Industries Theater.

14th Annual Give the Drummer Some Oct. 4, 2 p.m. & 6 p.m. – North Carolina Central University celebrates rhythm and jazz with educational workshops and performances featuring lauded drummer Lewis Nash alongside NCCU jazz percussion alumni at Sharp 9 Gallery.

Robert Lester Folsom Oct. 7, 8 p.m. – The cult favorite singer-songwriter and guitarist brings his psychedelic folk and rock catalog to Motorco Music Hall, joined by Nashville indie rocker Liz Cooper.

Kenny Wayne Shepherd Band Oct. 7, 8 p.m. – The blues-rock virtuoso stops by Carolina Theatre’s Fletcher Hall as part of his “Ledbetter Heights” 30th anniversary tour. Hear songs from the landmark album that launched his career alongside fan favorites and newer material performed by one of modern blues’ most celebrated guitarists.

On Company Time Oct. 9, 8 p.m. – Music and comedy collide when the OCT trio takes the stage at Motorco Music Hall to deliver quick-witted songs, sharp improvisation and plenty of laughs during a stop on its 2026 tour.

‘Maybe Happy Ending’ Oct. 13-18 – Fall in love with this six-time Tony Award-winning production – including for Best Musical – at the Durham Performing Arts Center. Set in a near-future Seoul, the heartfelt musical adventure follows two retired helper robots whose chance meeting blossoms into an unexpectedly moving journey through friendship, love and what it means to be human.

Yuko Nogami Taylor Oct. 15–Nov. 14 – 5 Points Gallery presents this art exhibition featuring the distinctive beauty of Japanese mineral painting. Using centuries-old materials in a contemporary context, Yuko creates luminous paintings that balance technical mastery with a quiet, contemplative presence. Third Friday opening reception takes place from 6-9 p.m. Oct. 16.

Playhouses and Picture Palaces: The Historical Theaters of Downtown Durham – Oct. 16 – Step into the spotlight and travel back through Durham’s rich entertainment history! This new exhibit at the Museum of Durham History explores the 18 theaters that brought downtown to life from the 1890s through the 1960s. From grand movie palaces and vaudeville stages to opera houses and neighborhood cinemas, discover how these beloved venues shaped the city’s cultural and economic landscape. As part of the Carolina Theatre’s centennial celebration, the exhibit also shines a special spotlight on downtown’s last remaining historic theater, featuring rare artifacts from its archives that have rarely been seen by the public.

Atsuko Okatsuka Oct. 16, 8 p.m. – The award-winning comedian and actress brings her signature offbeat storytelling, infectious energy and razor-sharp observations to Carolina Theatre’s Fletcher Hall. Fresh off her acclaimed Hulu special “Father,” the viral comic stops in Durham as part of her nationwide Big Bowl Tour for an evening of nonstop laughs.

SOJI/Survival Tactics/Mean Habit/Speedbag Oct. 17, 8 p.m. – Fans of hardcore punk can expect pounding riffs, mosh-worthy breakdowns and an electrifying atmosphere when these four high-octane acts take over The Pinhook for one unforgettable night.

The Roxelanne Effekt Oct. 18, 3:30 p.m. – The Chamber Orchestra of the Triangle opens its season at the Carolina Theatre with a program celebrating Classical-era masterworks. The afternoon concert features Mozart’s spirited Posthorn Serenade alongside selections from Haydn’s symphonies, blending elegance, wit and rich orchestral sound.

Beck Oct. 27, 8 p.m. – Experience the Grammy-winning singer-songwriter in a more intimate setting as he strips back his genre-defying catalog on his Ride Lonesome Tour. Expect acoustic arrangements, heartfelt performances and fresh takes on fan favorites at DPAC.

Ian Sweet Oct. 28, 8 p.m. – New York-based songwriter Jilian Medford, who performs as Ian Sweet, brings her acclaimed indie rock project to The Pinhook. Catch one of indie music’s most compelling songwriters as she previews the next chapter of her ever-evolving decade-long career.

All Onyx World Oct. 30, 8 p.m. – A free, one-night festival across downtown venues including The Fruit, Motorco, The Pinhook and Rubies on Five Points. Curated by Jooselord in honor of his son, Onyx, who passed away earlier this year, the festival will showcase 25-plus North Carolina artists spanning rap, metal, punk, soul and R&B, alongside local vendors and family-friendly outdoor activations.

‘Mrs. Doubtfire’ Oct. 30–Nov. 1 – “Help is on the way, dear!” The beloved hit film springs to life in this laugh-out-loud Broadway musical at DPAC. Follow struggling actor Daniel Hillard as he transforms into the unforgettable Mrs. Doubtfire in a touching story about family, resilience and second chances, complete with big laughs, memorable songs and plenty of heart.

Durham Fringe Festival Oct. 30–Nov. 8 – Part of the Carolina Theatre’s centennial celebration, this new festival transforms storefronts, alleyways and green spaces with experimental performances and immersive installations.

Awadagin Pratt Nov. 1, 2 p.m. – The renowned pianist brings his America 250 program to Duke University’s Baldwin Auditorium for an afternoon celebrating the depth and diversity of American classical music as part of Duke Arts Presents’ new season. His program explores the many voices that have shaped American music, featuring works by Florence Price, George Walker, Nathaniel Dett, Judd Greenstein and Fred Hersch, as well as his own arrangement of the spiritual “Sometimes I Feel Like a Motherless Child” and Brahms’ monumental Variations and Fugue on a Theme of Handel.

Little Big Town Nov. 6, 7:30 p.m. – The Grammy and Emmy-winning country quartet brings its For the Art of It Tour to DPAC. Known for soaring four-part harmonies and chart-topping hits like “Girl Crush,” “Pontoon” and “Boondocks,” the group promises an evening of powerhouse vocals and contemporary country favorites.

The North Carolina Latin American Film Festival Nov. 13-15 – Organized by the Center for Latin American and Caribbean Studies at Duke University, this festival celebrates its 40th anniversary this year, returning to showcase works by Latin filmmakers in Spanish, Portuguese and indigenous languages. Enjoy a free discussion about the past and future of Latin American cinema alongside screenings of documentary and feature films as well as other special events that explore themes such as music and dance, migration, dramas and globalization at various Durham and Chapel Hill locations.

Durham County Pottery Tour Nov. 14, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., and Nov. 15, noon-5 p.m. – This annual open studio tour, now in its 13th year, welcomes visitors to explore 30 studios across the county. Meet the artists, ask questions and see the wide range of work that can be created from clay. Pottery will be available for purchase at all tour locations.

Opera FM Nov. 15, 3:30 p.m. – Travel through the drama, romance and grandeur of opera with the Chamber Orchestra of the Triangle at the Carolina Theatre. This showcase pairs the orchestra’s musicians with selections from celebrated composers including Giuseppe Verdi, Giacomo Puccini, Enrique Granados and Jules Massenet for an afternoon of sweeping melodies and unforgettable moments from the stage.

Fall 2026 Jazz Week Nov. 16-21 – North Carolina Central University’s Jazz Studies program celebrates the sounds and history of jazz with a week of performances, conversations and community events. The lineup features student combos and ensembles, a documentary screening with a Q&A, a jazz faculty ensemble performance and more, highlighting the next generation of musicians from one of the nation’s premier historically Black university jazz programs.

King Nobuyoshi Godwin Nov. 19–Dec. 22 – Celebrate the imaginative world of this bold artist in a featured exhibition at 5 Points Gallery. Through vibrant color, inventive compositions and a uniquely personal artistic voice, King shares a perspective shaped in part by autism and synesthesia. His joyful paintings invite viewers to see the world through a lens of creativity, wonder and possibility. Third Friday opening reception takes place from 6-9 p.m. Nov. 20.

Durham Art Walk Holiday Market Nov. 21-22 – Kick-start the holiday season as the Durham Arts Council hosts this annual tour featuring local artists, live music, food and fun at a number of different sites around the city.

‘’Twas the Night Before …’ Nov. 25–Dec. 6 – Bring the whole family to DPAC for Cirque du Soleil’s first holiday production, a dazzling reimagining of Clement Clarke Moore’s classic poem, “A Visit from Saint Nicholas.” Filled with acrobatics, whimsical characters and a festive soundtrack, “’Twas the Night Before …” follows a young girl who rediscovers the magic of the holiday season in a spectacular celebration for all ages.

‘The Night Before Christmas Carol’ Dec. 5 & Dec. 20 – Back by popular demand, RedBird Theater Company invites you to join Charles Dickens as he invents the characters and storyline for his now-famous “A Christmas Carol” in this enchanting one-man show by North Carolina playwright Elliot Engel, directed by Jeffery West and performed by Adam Sampieri – perfect for getting into the holiday spirit.

‘A Christmas Carol’ December, dates TBD – Theatre in the Park brings its beloved musical comedy adaptation of the classic Charles Dickens tale to the Durham Performing Arts Center, celebrating more than 50 years as a cherished North Carolina holiday tradition. Filled with festive cheer, memorable carols and the timeless story of Scrooge’s transformation, this heartwarming performance is perfect for the whole family.