Live music, canine competition highlight weekend best bets

This weekend showcases plenty of live music in Raleigh and Durham: First Friday brings art and music downtown, Hopscotch Music Festival runs through Saturday night, the Bull Durham Blues Festival celebrates its 25th year and the North Carolina Symphony introduces "Pops in the City." There are plenty of events to keep you busy through the weekend:

The three-day music extravaganza (Thursday through Saturday) is bringing 175 bands and musicians to 15 venues in Raleigh. Hopscotch features local bands as well as groups from as far away as Sweden. No matter what your musical preferences are, Hopscotch has something to suit your taste: rock, hip-hop, punk, electronic, folk and more. You can see shows while the sun's still up at the day parties or come out after dark for the night shows. Be sure to check out our extensive Hopscotch coverage!

The Durham Athletic Park is hosting the 25th Annual Bull Durham Blues Festival on Friday and Saturday from 6 p.m. to midnight. This nationally recognized blues celebration – it was awarded the "Keeping the Blues Alive Award” by The Blues Foundation in Memphis, Tenn. – is sure to be a hit. Bring a blanket and a friend, and get ready to enjoy some blues in the evening! 

The London Games are over, but the Olympic spirit doesn't have to come to an end! The NC State College of Veterinary Medicine is hosting its 21st Annual Dog Olympics this Saturday. There will be competitions featuring our furry friends, as well as demonstrations, a free microchip clinic, vendors, booths, a raffle, face painting and more. All the proceeds go to helping local animal rescue groups. Competitions will start at 10 a.m.

The North Carolina Symphony is kicking off its 80th season with "Pops in the City," a free concert at Raleigh Amphitheater. They'll be performing musical selections for every taste that highlight a wonderful legacy of service to the people and schools of North Carolina. Live music and a great view are a great way to wind down your Sunday evening. The concert begins at 7:30 p.m.