Downtown Raleigh in September is a feast of free festivals.  And if you’re like me, you turn into such a glutton trying to do a bunch of stuff at each that you end the month pushed back from the festival table feeling like you do after a Thanksgiving meal–part happily stuffed, part miserably exhausted.

African American Cultural Festival of Raleigh and Wake County

September 3-4

This is the second year for this event. The first year was a blast! Located at City Plaza on Fayetteville St. in downtown Raleigh, it features music, a family village, juried artist market, vendor marketplace, and more. Visit www.aacfralwake.org for the full schedule of events. I’ll be volunteering so hope to see you there!

Hopscotch Music Festival

September 8-10

Technically, Hopscotch Music Festival events pop-up well before the big show it seems. Hosted by The Independent Weekly, this year’s festival promises 135 bands in 12 venues. The variety in genres of music is so extensive let’s just say whatever your favorite music–it’s likely represented in some fashion. This event nicely blends local, national and international music artists. All of the 3-day passes are gone, but single ticket shows are still available http://hopscotchmusicfest.com.

SPARKcon

September 15-18

Having many interests, I love SPARKcon because of the variety it offers. The “sparks” that make up the festival change and grow each year. This year’s include ideaSPARK, artSPARK, fashionSPARK,musicSPARK, comedySPARK, poetrySPARK, filmSPARK, bazaarSPARK, danceSPARK, circusSPARK, designSPARK, tastySPARK, theatreSPARK, geekSPARK (formerly cyberSPARK) and wheelSPARK. (Hope I got them all). Word to the wise, pace yourself at this event. It is impossible to do it all. Find out more at www.sparkcon.com.

And on the 4th weekend in September, refuel your energy tank and catch up on beauty rest. You’re going to need it for the next huge thing–First Night Raleigh 2012!