About Durham, NC
Durham, in the central part of North Carolina, is near the state capitol of Raleigh. Many Durham residents work for cutting-edge businesses in Research Triangle Park, an area of innovation fueled by the presence of three large universities. Located in the city of Durham, Duke University is a nationally-renowned institution attracting students from around the country and the world. Younger students attend Durham public schools. The presence of the university and the vibrant population of Durham make the city a place for a number of seasonal festivals. In summer, the annual Bimbe Festival celebrates African harvests with a craft bazaar and a variety of music. Also in summer, Duke University hosts the American Dance Festival, which has showcased famous dance companies such as Alvin Ailey. Visitors should be sure to visit the Duke campus to take in its gothic architecture, soaring chapel, and lovely gardens. Other attractions include Brightleaf Square, a charming shopping complex housed in renovated tobacco warehouses, and the Duke Homestead, the historic residence of university-founder Washington Duke. Duke and his sons are some of the most famous early residents of Durham, because they went on to create the American Tobacco Company. They donated money to many humanitarian causes, including Duke University.
