1. The largest and most authentic German festival in NC is back for the 10th Annual Triangle Oktoberfest. Traditional Bavarian food and more than 50 beers — to include seasonal and local craft brews — will be featured. This year’s event includes several wiener dog races, expanded kids’ activities, live music, stein hoists, and meetup opportunities that celebrate German culture. Friday, October 4, 5–10 p.m., and Saturday, October 5, noon to 8 p.m. $15 and up. Koka Booth Amphitheatre, Cary. triangleoktoberfest.org

2. It’s an Evening of Pawsibilities for the furry friends available for adoption through Second Chance Pet Adoptions. At this 24th annual gala — the largest fundraising event of the year — live and silent auctions will raise funds for homeless animals’ shelter, nutrition, and medical care. Enjoy a cocktail hour and dinner and dessert in the ballroom or show your support with remote bidding. Saturday, October 5, 6–10 p.m. $120 and up. Embassy Suites, Cary. secondchancenc.org/events/2024-eop

3. Also known as the Festival of Lights, Diwali is the most celebrated religious and cultural event in India. Signifying the victory of good over evil and light over dark, and marking the beginning of the New Year, the free festival offers music, fireworks, food, and fun. Performances, a vendor bazaar, art and cultural exhibitions, and activities for children all add to the event’s creative celebrations. Saturday, October 12, 10 a.m. Koka Booth Amphitheatre, Cary. carync.gov/diwali

Photographed by Jonathan Fredin

4. Savor some of the state’s finest wines at the North Carolina Wine Festival. Food, fun, and live music form the atmosphere in which to enjoy wineries, wines, and winemakers. For over two decades, this has been a can’t-miss fall event for local wine lovers.Saturday, October 19, noon to 5 p.m., $35 for general admission; 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., $79 for VIP session. Koka Booth Amphitheatre, Cary. ncwinefestival.com

5. The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s Light the Night is aimed at bringing light to the darkness caused by cancer. The community gathering will celebrate and honor those whose lives have been impacted by blood cancers. Funds raised will go toward research, advocacy, and support for cancer patients and those who love them. Registered participants will receive lanterns to help illuminate the way to a cure. Saturday, October 26, 5:30–9 p.m. Koka Booth Amphitheatre, Cary. lightthenight.org/events/triangle