Adult Nights: Tales of Woe

The third edition of JLF North Carolina, an international edition of the renowned Jaipur Literature Festival, comes to Raleigh September 11–13, 2026, bringing the spirit of one of the world's leading literary festivals to the Triangle. Celebrating the many arts, stories, and histories of Raleigh—the “City of Oaks”—JLF North Carolina will feature thought-provoking conversations, compelling performances, author sessions, and cultural experiences exploring literature, ideas, history, society, and the world around us. The festival will take place at Meredith College and NC State’s Institute for Emerging Issues. The program will bring together acclaimed authors, artists, thinkers, journalists, and cultural leaders from North Carolina and around the world. The 2026 lineup includes Belle Boggs, Jeff Tiberii, Karan Mahajan, Bob Crawford, and many more. The Jaipur Literature Festival takes place annually in Jaipur, India, and is internationally celebrated as the “greatest literary show on Earth.” Its spirit now travels through international editions across the US, UK, Canada, Spain, the Maldives, and Australia, bringing together diverse literary traditions and the unique culture of each host region. JLF North Carolina offers readers, families, students, educators, writers, and curious minds an opportunity to discover new perspectives, hear remarkable stories, and experience the power of books and ideas right here in Raleigh.

Four hours for them. Four hours for YOU. Drop the kids off at Battle House Laser Tag for a night packed with laser tag, pizza, a movie, and more laser tag. Meanwhile, you can go to dinner, catch a movie, run errands, enjoy a quiet house, or simply remember what it feels like to finish a sentence without being interrupted. Details Ages: 7 to 13 Time: 5 PM to 9 PM Price: $49 per child What's Included -4 hours total -Approximately 3 hours of Battle House Laser Tag -Large slice of pizza and a drink -Movie time during dinner, then more laser tag time For Parents: Four glorious hours where parents do not have to entertain anyone Reserve tickets at: https://ecom.roller.app/battlehousefayetteville/parentsnightout/en-us/products

Safe Homes, Strong Families Resource Day is a free community event presented by PR Home Care for older adults, family caregivers, and families who want to plan ahead and connect with trusted local resources before a crisis occurs. Meet local professionals and learn about fall prevention, aging in place and home safety, dementia and caregiver support, planning, medication safety, home organization, and other resources that can support safer, more independent living. Aging in Place North Carolina will provide a featured presentation, “How to Safely and Comfortably Age in the Home You Love.” The event will also include community resources, giveaways, and complimentary light refreshments while supplies last. Free and open to the public. Walk-ins are welcome.

Family Fest 2026 is an inclusive community event designed to provide families a dedicated space for connection, creativity, and outdoor recreation. The festival emphasizes slowing down to enjoy meaningful time together through a variety of engaging, low-pressure activities suitable for all ages. Attendees can participate in a diverse range of experiences including community yoga, creative arts workshops, and organized field games. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy lake activities and fishing opportunities throughout the day. Food options feature local food trucks and a communal cookout, followed by evening s'mores and entertainment. Overnight guests have the option to conclude the event with an outdoor movie screening under the stars. This event is perfect for families seeking a relaxed atmosphere to build community bonds and create lasting memories. It offers a unique blend of wellness and fun in an accessible outdoor setting. We are currently finalizing our lineup of performers and vendors, so please follow our official Facebook page for the latest announcements. Join us for a day dedicated to play, movement, and local connection as we bring the community together for this special experience.

Serving Brunch is a monthly event featuring live drag and burlesque performances held at our venue. This event combines high-energy entertainment with a casual dining experience to offer a unique weekend outing for our local community. The September production is hosted by Soultry Sweetzzzz. Featured performers include Babylon Mystere, Darshe Dazzles, Chartreuse Divinity, Goddess Bleu Pearl, and Red Holy Waters. Guests can enjoy a curated brunch buffet provided by Nation Pantry alongside a full selection of beverages available at the bar throughout the show. This production highlights diverse talent and creative stage work in an intimate setting. This event is designed for adults seeking a vibrant atmosphere and engaging live performance art. Whether you are a long-time fan of drag and burlesque or simply looking for an entertaining way to enjoy a meal, this brunch offers a welcoming environment for all. We invite you to join us for an afternoon of artistry and dining. Secure your spot today to experience this special monthly showcase with our talented cast and local catering partners.

Join us for the highly anticipated Triangle Vegfest, an energetic celebration dedicated to promoting the vibrant benefits of a plant-based lifestyle. Taking place on Sunday, September 13, 2026, at the beautiful Durham Central Park, this event brings the community together for an afternoon of discovery and conscious living. Whether you are a dedicated vegan or simply curious about exploring healthier, sustainable options, there is something here for everyone to enjoy. The festival atmosphere is filled with excitement, featuring a wide array of vegan-friendly vendors, unique local shopping opportunities, and delicious plant-based cuisine available for purchase. Families are encouraged to attend as the event includes a dedicated kids zone, ensuring a fun experience for guests of all ages. This is a wonderful opportunity to support local businesses while learning more about the positive impact of plant-based choices. Tickets are available now with a convenient pay what you can option to ensure accessibility for all community members. We invite you to visit our website to secure your entry today and be part of this growing movement. We look forward to seeing you at Durham Central Park for a day of inspiration, food, and community connection.

Thomas and his Friends are visiting the New Hope Valley Railway Garden Railroad this September. This special event brings the beloved characters to life through a detailed G-Scale display featuring iconic trains and figures. Families and train enthusiasts are invited to experience this unique exhibition on September 12 and 13. Visitors can view miniature versions of Thomas, Percy, James, Paxton, Emily, Winston, and Toby as they travel along the tracks. Sir Topham Hatt will be present to greet guests throughout the weekend. In addition to the garden display, attendees can enjoy rides on the full-size trains operating during scheduled times. The event will also feature appearances by miniature Minions. This experience is perfect for families seeking an interactive and memorable outing. The event schedule includes departures on September 12 at 10:30am, 12:00pm, and 1:30pm, and on September 13 at 10:30am and 12:00pm. Tickets sell out quickly every year due to high demand. Please visit www.TriangleTrain.com to secure your tickets in advance. We look forward to welcoming you to the railway for this exciting celebration.

Stitched in Tradition is a public showcase at the North Carolina Museum of Art dedicated to exploring Indigenous fashion, art, and identity. This event brings together designers from across the state to demonstrate how cultural knowledge and modern design intersect through the power of clothing and storytelling. Attendees will experience a series of runway presentations featuring both traditional regalia and contemporary collections. The showcase highlights the role of fashion as a living tradition, offering a platform for local designers to share their personal expressions and creative heritage. The event serves as a medium for celebrating Indigenous visibility and the ongoing evolution of cultural identity within the fashion industry. This event is designed for anyone interested in cultural arts, textile design, or local history. The atmosphere is professional and engaging, making it an excellent opportunity for community members to learn about diverse traditions and support contemporary Indigenous artists. We invite you to join us for an evening of inspiration and craftsmanship. Please check the museum website for specific schedule details and ticket availability to ensure you can participate in this unique cultural experience.

Farming Equipment Then and Now is a guided educational tour that explores the evolution of agricultural technology on a historic family farm. The event highlights how farming practices have transformed from the turn of the last century to the present day. Participants will walk through the grounds to learn how local farmers supported tobacco production and other traditional crops throughout the region's agricultural history. You will see authentic antique tools used by past generations side by side with the high efficiency machinery used in our modern era. This interactive experience offers a clear look at the mechanical innovations that shaped local food production. Demonstrations show how these vintage implements functioned and how contemporary equipment has replaced manual labor. This tour is ideal for history enthusiasts, families, students, and anyone interested in the progression of agricultural technology. The atmosphere is casual, informative, and focused on discovery. The event provides a rare look at preserved artifacts in their natural setting. Please wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for farm terrain and bring water for the duration of the outdoor tour. We invite you to join us to appreciate the hard work behind our agricultural roots.

Thomas and his Friends are visiting the New Hope Valley Railway Garden Railroad this September. This special event brings the beloved characters to life through a detailed G-Scale display featuring iconic trains and figures. Families and train enthusiasts are invited to experience this unique exhibition on September 12 and 13. Visitors can view miniature versions of Thomas, Percy, James, Paxton, Emily, Winston, and Toby as they travel along the tracks. Sir Topham Hatt will be present to greet guests throughout the weekend. In addition to the garden display, attendees can enjoy rides on the full-size trains operating during scheduled times. The event will also feature appearances by miniature Minions. This experience is perfect for families seeking an interactive and memorable outing. The event schedule includes departures on September 12 at 10:30am, 12:00pm, and 1:30pm, and on September 13 at 10:30am and 12:00pm. Tickets sell out quickly every year due to high demand. Please visit www.TriangleTrain.com to secure your tickets in advance. We look forward to welcoming you to the railway for this exciting celebration.

Migrating Monarchs is an educational program exploring the annual southward journey of Monarch butterflies. Participants will learn how local habitats support these insects and contribute to their survival during migration. The event begins in the Nature Neighborhood Garden to examine managed habitats that fuel Monarchs. Attendees will then move into the prairie for guided butterfly spotting. Depending on activity, participants may participate in catch and release demonstrations. The session covers collaborative science initiatives including the Monarch Larvae Monitoring Project and Monarch Watch to explain how citizens track population trends. This family friendly program is designed for all ages interested in wildlife conservation and local ecology. The atmosphere is interactive and focuses on active observation in a natural setting. It offers a unique opportunity to engage with scientific research while observing migration patterns firsthand. Wear comfortable footwear suitable for walking in outdoor prairie terrain and prepare for time spent in the sun. We encourage families and nature enthusiasts to join us for this educational outdoor experience. Please register in advance to secure your spot for this seasonal event.

Stitched in Tradition is a public showcase at the North Carolina Museum of Art dedicated to exploring Indigenous fashion, art, and identity. This event brings together designers from across the state to demonstrate how cultural knowledge and modern design intersect through the power of clothing and storytelling. Attendees will experience a series of runway presentations featuring both traditional regalia and contemporary collections. The showcase highlights the role of fashion as a living tradition, offering a platform for local designers to share their personal expressions and creative heritage. The event serves as a medium for celebrating Indigenous visibility and the ongoing evolution of cultural identity within the fashion industry. This event is designed for anyone interested in cultural arts, textile design, or local history. The atmosphere is professional and engaging, making it an excellent opportunity for community members to learn about diverse traditions and support contemporary Indigenous artists. We invite you to join us for an evening of inspiration and craftsmanship. Please check the museum website for specific schedule details and ticket availability to ensure you can participate in this unique cultural experience.

The Plum Palooza Kickoff Party is a live music event on Sunday September 13th celebrating the launch of Plum. All ticket proceeds directly support the funding of the Plum festival. Doors open at 4:30 pm and the music starts promptly at 5:00 pm. Please note that this ticketed event covers the evening music program only and is separate from the public daytime activities. Attendees will enjoy a full lineup of local talent including performances by Charlie Paso, Bedrumor, The Matildas, Supermutt, and Applefield. The event also features music sets from DJs Micky Slicks and Mikey Sharks. This show promises a high energy atmosphere dedicated to community building and local artistry. This event is designed for music lovers who want to support local creative initiatives. Tickets operate on a sliding scale from 15 to 50 dollars, allowing guests to contribute what they can afford. We invite you to join us for a night of dancing and celebration. Purchase your ticket now to secure your spot and support our collective goals for the upcoming season.

Dungeons and Drafthouse at Video Vortex is a monthly tabletop roleplaying event featuring curated one shot adventures. This session highlights The Capricorn Heist, where participants assemble a crew to complete a high-stakes mission before sunrise. Professional dungeon masters facilitate every game to ensure a smooth and engaging experience for all attendees. The session includes everything required for play, including pre-generated character sheets and a new set of dice. Players choose between standard tables for general experience levels or advanced tables for those seeking complex mechanics and challenging gameplay. The event is designed to be self-contained, meaning you do not need to bring materials or prior knowledge to participate effectively. This event is open to both newcomers and seasoned veterans looking to play in a social, structured environment. Whether you are gathering a group of friends or attending solo to meet new players, this session provides an accessible way to engage with professional-grade storytelling. Secure your ticket today to participate in this unique tabletop challenge and experience a professionally guided adventure in a welcoming local setting.

This workshop is a guided hands-on session where participants learn to create a custom stained glass pumpkin. You will master the fundamental techniques of glass crafting while assembling your own holiday piece to take home. No prior experience is required to participate in this event. Attendees will receive step by step instruction on foiling, assembling, and soldering glass components. Professional tools and materials are provided for all participants. The instructor manages the process to ensure safety and precision throughout the session. If your project requires extra attention, we offer additional studio time at no extra cost to guarantee you complete your work successfully. This event is designed for beginners who want to explore glass art in a supportive environment. With a capacity limited to ten seats, you will receive personalized attention and plenty of workspace. The atmosphere is focused and collaborative, making it an excellent opportunity to learn a new skill. Secure your spot today to experience this creative process and leave with a handmade decoration for your home.