African American Cultural Festival of Raleigh and Wake County

CHILL ACT North Carolina Special Needs & Homeschool Expo is a free community event bringing families together with local providers, educators, therapists, community organizations, and resources supporting children with autism, special needs, and homeschool families. Join us on Saturday, August 29, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM at the Durham Convention Center. Families can explore valuable local resources, meet therapy and educational providers, and enjoy a welcoming day filled with activities for children. Event highlights include: • Free developmental & pre-autism screenings • Therapy, education & community resources • Balloon art • Face painting • Bounce house • Petting zoo • Art exhibition featuring neurodiverse children • Local vendors and family resources Admission is FREE for families. Register for free at www.chillactexpo.com Come connect, learn, explore resources, and enjoy a fun-filled afternoon with the North Carolina special needs and homeschool community.

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.

FREE Family Fest in Raleigh — Saturday, September 12! Looking for a full day of family fun, creativity, connection, and outdoor adventure? Join us for the 3rd Annual Family Fest at Lakeside Retreats! Optional overnight Camping 📅 Saturday, September 12, 2026 ⏰ 8:00 AM–9:00 PM 📍 4521 Mial Plantation Road, Raleigh, NC 27610 🎟️ FREE admission Enjoy a day filled with: 🔥 Fire show 🎨 Art activities 🥋 Martial arts class 🫧 Bubbles 🧘 Yoga and sound bath 🌲 Forest bathing 🏕️ S’mores and optional overnight camping 🍴 Food trucks and vendors 💛 Sensory yurt 🎤 Guest speakers 🏆 Tug of war …and so much more!

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.

Discover the profound stories and vibrant legacy of Raleigh with an immersive Black History Walking Tour. Every Saturday from July 11 through September 12, 2026, guests are invited to journey through the heart of the city to uncover hidden narratives that shaped our community. This engaging one-hour experience departs from the historic Dr. M. T. Pope House Museum and guides participants across a 1.4-mile path through the iconic Third Ward neighborhood and Black Wall Street. Throughout the tour, you will visit significant historic churches and explore the cultural landmarks that define the African American experience in Raleigh. This educational outing provides a unique opportunity to connect with local heritage in an active and meaningful way. Whether you are a long-time resident or a curious visitor, this tour promises an enriching perspective on city history. Space is limited for these guided excursions, so be sure to secure your spot today. Tickets are priced at 10 dollars for adults and 6 dollars for children ages 6 to 17. Register online now to guarantee your participation in this essential historical discovery experience.

Experience the vibrant community spirit at the Black Farmers Market in Raleigh. This recurring event serves as a crucial platform for supporting local Black farmers and entrepreneurs who contribute unique, high-quality products to the Triangle area. By shopping at this market, you are directly investing in the growth and sustainability of family-owned farms that have historically faced significant systemic challenges. It is a fantastic way to connect with your neighbors while enjoying fresh, locally sourced goods. The market fosters a collaborative environment where residents can celebrate local talent and build a stronger, more equitable food system together. Whether you are looking for fresh produce, artisan crafts, or simply want to show your support for Black business owners, there is something for everyone to enjoy. These gatherings are held regularly and provide a welcoming space for all members of the community. We encourage you to join us this Sunday for an afternoon of local shopping and community building. Visit the official Facebook page to confirm the specific dates and location details for the next gathering. We look forward to seeing you there.

Join the Dr. M.T. Pope House Museum for an engaging monthly literary series titled Evelyn's Book Club. This program honors the legacy of Evelyn Pope, a dedicated college librarian who possessed a lifelong passion for diverse literature. The club gathers community members at the historic museum to discuss impactful works, specifically focusing on books by Black authors or those centered on Black subjects. Each session features thoughtful discussion questions to foster deep conversation and connection among participants. The series runs throughout the year and explores a variety of genres including fiction and non-fiction. Whether you are a fan of classic literature or modern narratives, this club offers a welcoming space for thoughtful dialogue and community building. Participation is free and open to adults eighteen and older, though registration is required to attend. An optional book bundle is available for purchase during registration for your convenience. Do not miss this opportunity to celebrate literacy and local history in a unique setting. Register today to secure your spot and join the conversation in Raleigh.

North Hills Kids is back for the summer of 2026, bringing high-energy excitement to families in the Raleigh area. This popular seasonal series is specifically designed for preschool-aged children to enjoy engaging and themed activities in a vibrant outdoor setting. Join us at Midtown Park on the third Tuesday of each month from June through August, between 9:30 and 11 a.m., for a morning of organized fun and play. These events offer a wonderful opportunity for your little ones to explore new themes and interact with peers in a safe environment. Please be aware that some sessions have limited supplies available, so we recommend arriving promptly as participation is based on a first come, first served basis. These events are completely free to the public, making them an excellent way to keep your children active and entertained during the summer months. Whether you are a local resident or visiting the area, North Hills Kids provides the perfect atmosphere for family bonding. We invite you to visit our website at visitnorthills.com/events to see the full schedule and learn more about our upcoming programs. Bring your preschooler to North Hills and create lasting summer memories with us.

Experience the magic of cinema without breaking your budget at The Lumina Theater in Southern Village, located at 620 Market Street in Chapel Hill. We are thrilled to host our ongoing Terrific Tuesdays promotion, designed to make your movie-going experience more accessible and enjoyable for everyone. Every Tuesday throughout the entire year, you can secure your cinema tickets for the incredibly low base price of 6.25 dollars. Even after including all necessary taxes and fees, your total comes to just 7.75 dollars per ticket, offering significant savings for film lovers. Beyond the discounted admission, guests can also take advantage of exclusive concession specials available exclusively on Tuesdays. Whether you are catching the latest blockbuster or a critically acclaimed indie film, there is no better time to visit our state of the art facility. We invite you to gather your friends and family for an affordable night out at the movies. Visit our box office or check our website to browse current showtimes and book your seats in advance for this weekly special event.

Back for a highly anticipated second year, RipTide Car Wash is proud to support local educators by offering complimentary car washes throughout the entire month of August 2026. This initiative serves as a heartfelt gesture of appreciation for the hard work and dedication that teachers and school staff bring to our local community each day. Whether you are prepping for the new school year or simply need a quick refresh during your busy commute, this promotion is designed to make your day a little brighter. To take advantage of this special offer, simply present your valid school identification card at any participating RipTide Car Wash location across the region. With multiple spots available in both Durham and Raleigh, accessing this benefit is convenient for staff members throughout the Triangle area. We invite all eligible school employees to visit their nearest location this month to enjoy a premium wash on us. Do not miss this opportunity to experience professional service at no cost while celebrating your commitment to our students. Visit the official RipTide website today to find a location near you and claim your free wash.

National Senior Citizens Day 2026 is a dedicated community celebration honoring the contributions and experiences of our senior citizens. This event serves as a platform to foster connection, appreciation, and joy through a curated day of social activities and shared experiences. Attendees can look forward to an engaging lineup of carnival style games designed for all skill levels and physical abilities. A complimentary lunch will be provided for all guests, offering a relaxed environment to socialize with friends and neighbors. The atmosphere is intended to be lighthearted and communal, prioritizing comfort and accessibility for all participants. This gathering is specifically designed for seniors looking to enjoy a day of entertainment and camaraderie in a welcoming setting. We invite you to join us for this special occasion to celebrate our community members and enjoy a day planned with your interests in mind. Please mark your calendars and prepare for a rewarding day of fun. We look forward to welcoming you to this celebratory event and ensuring a memorable experience for everyone involved.

Experience the ultimate culinary celebration at the Durham Foodie Fare, a recurring monthly event hosted by The MAKRS Society at Durham Central Park. Running from March through December, this vibrant gathering transforms the heart of the city into a bustling hub of creativity and flavor. Guests are invited to explore a diverse array of local makers, talented artists, and small businesses showcasing their unique crafts and goods in a lively outdoor setting. With more than twenty food trucks serving up a wide variety of delicious options, there is truly something to satisfy every craving. Beyond the incredible dining experiences, the event features curated music and a welcoming atmosphere perfect for friends and family alike. Whether you are looking to discover new local talent, enjoy a casual dinner under the stars, or simply soak in the energy of the Durham community, this event offers the perfect Friday evening destination. Best of all, admission is completely free for all attendees. Make plans to visit us at 501 Foster Street and join the local excitement. We look forward to seeing you there for an unforgettable night of food, art, and community spirit.

Join The Scrap Exchange as it celebrates a remarkable 35 years of creative community impact during the Third Friday event in downtown Durham on August 21, 2026. This energetic anniversary celebration takes place at CCB Plaza from 6 to 9 p.m., offering an engaging evening packed with unique entertainment and festive activities for all ages. Experience live musical performances by Emma Jane and DJ MARRS, and catch a special appearance by the Scrap Exchange mascot, brought to life by Jeghetto Entertainment. Attendees can explore an immersive pop-up cardboard installation by artist Jason Lord, enjoy tarot readings, and participate in lawn games hosted by Pour Taproom. Local vendors will provide delicious treats, including a special signature salad from Neomonde Mediterranean. From the poolside views at Unscripted Durham to the vibrant galleries throughout downtown, this event promises a memorable experience for everyone. Mark your calendars for this milestone occasion and come celebrate the artistic spirit that defines Durham. We invite you to sign the giant birthday card and join the festivities. Visit our website for further details and to plan your evening in the city.