Alex Underwood

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.

Join us for an exclusive event featuring Ashley Robinson. This session offers a unique opportunity to engage with her expertise and gain actionable insights in a focused professional setting designed for high impact. Participants will explore core concepts and current industry trends through a guided presentation. Attendees can expect a structured deep dive into key topics followed by a dynamic interactive segment. This portion allows for direct engagement where questions are encouraged and practical applications are thoroughly discussed. The session is crafted to provide immediate value through clear communication and direct knowledge transfer. This event is ideal for professionals and enthusiasts looking to expand their understanding and refine their skills. We aim to foster a collaborative environment that promotes learning and meaningful professional exchange. The atmosphere is professional yet welcoming, ensuring all participants feel comfortable sharing their perspectives. Space is limited to maintain a high quality of interaction for every guest. We encourage you to secure your spot early to ensure your participation in this insightful gathering. Please arrive on time to take full advantage of the entire program and networking opportunities available.

Join us for an exclusive live performance featuring Brent Stimmell. This event offers guests a unique opportunity to engage with his latest work in an intimate and professional setting designed to showcase his unique creative perspective and technical expertise. Attendees can expect a curated showcase that highlights key themes from his recent projects. The presentation will feature a deep dive into his creative process followed by an interactive demonstration of his signature style. You will gain valuable insights into his artistic journey and the inspiration behind his most celebrated pieces. Whether you are a long-time admirer of his craft or a newcomer to his work, this session provides a comprehensive look at what makes his contributions significant. This event is perfect for professionals, enthusiasts, and anyone interested in creative innovation. The atmosphere will be focused, welcoming, and conducive to meaningful networking among peers. We invite you to be part of this experience and discover firsthand the depth of Brent Stimmell. Space is limited, so please register early to secure your spot for this insightful session.

The Crooktober Family Fun Fest is an afternoon community celebration held at the Hammock designed for families to enjoy seasonal activities together. This event serves as a central gathering space for neighbors to participate in autumn festivities and engage with local entertainment throughout the day. Attendees can participate in a variety of activities including face painting, balloon animal creation, and a pretzel necklace station. The highlight of the schedule is the Kids Root Beer Stein Holding Competition taking place at noon. Following the competition, attendees can enjoy live music performances on the main stage from 1 until 4 in the afternoon. These features provide a structured yet flexible itinerary for participants of all ages. This event is tailored for families looking for an energetic and friendly atmosphere. It offers a convenient way to spend a weekend afternoon outdoors while connecting with the community. We invite you to bring your entire crew to the Hammock for an engaging experience that captures the festive spirit of the season. Plan your visit today to ensure you do not miss the scheduled entertainment.

Join the vibrant Run, Sweat, Beers RUN CLUB every Tuesday evening at Growler Grlz in Durham. This energetic community has been going strong for over five years, welcoming runners and walkers of all skill levels to participate in an active and social atmosphere. Whether you are an experienced athlete or just looking for a fun way to stay moving, this group offers a perfect balance of fitness and camaraderie. There is no need for formal sign ups, so feel free to simply show up and join the fun starting at six in the evening. As a special incentive for new participants, Growler Grlz rewards your dedication by gifting you a custom t shirt after completing your first dozen runs. After your workout, you are invited to stay and relax in the welcoming taproom, which features an extensive selection of fresh, locally sourced craft beers on tap. This is an excellent opportunity to meet new friends while enjoying a healthy lifestyle. Come be a part of this enduring tradition and earn your post run drink today.

Join us at Der Nachbar Bottleshop and Taps located on Hillsborough Road in Durham for our exciting Tuesday Toss event. This weekly gathering invites you to test your luck by rolling the dice to determine which of our twenty rotating craft drafts you will enjoy for just five dollars. It is a fun and casual way to explore our diverse selection of local brews while enjoying a relaxed atmosphere with friends. Our venue offers a welcoming environment for everyone, featuring a spacious patio where leashed dogs are more than welcome to join the fun. We prioritize convenience with an outdoor serving window that allows you to order without leaving your seat. Guests are encouraged to bring their own takeout food or enjoy offerings from visiting food trucks and local bakery partners. Whether you are a beer enthusiast or simply looking for a great spot to unwind, our shop provides the perfect backdrop for a midweek treat. We invite you to stop by this Tuesday to participate in the game and discover your new favorite beverage. Please visit our website or social media pages for more details on our calendar of recurring events.

Join us at Southern Peak Brewery for a night dedicated to Gilmore Girls trivia. This themed event invites fans to test their knowledge of the show while enjoying a selection of local craft beers in a friendly, community-focused setting. The evening features multiple rounds of questions covering iconic moments, characters, and storylines from the series. Participants will compete for various prizes provided by the brewery. The competition begins promptly at 6:30pm, so arriving early is encouraged to settle in and secure your spot. This event is perfect for dedicated fans, local trivia enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a fun midweek outing. The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, making it an excellent opportunity to connect with fellow viewers. Gather your team of brightest minds and prepare for a night of friendly competition and entertainment. Whether you are a long-time fan or just enjoy a good challenge, this trivia night offers an engaging experience for everyone. We look forward to seeing you at the brewery for a memorable evening of Gilmore Girls themed fun.

This event features a live performance by the influential American black metal band Profanatica, supported by the metal act Cloak. Fans of extreme music can experience an evening dedicated to dark, atmospheric, and technically precise performances in a live concert setting. Profanatica, led by drummer and vocalist Paul Ledney, brings over three decades of experience to the stage. They are recognized for their foundational role in the United States black metal scene and their consistent commitment to a raw, uncompromising sound. Attendees can expect a high energy show that highlights the distinct musical identity of both bands. The performance serves as a rare opportunity to witness a legendary act alongside current innovators in the genre. This concert is tailored for dedicated followers of black and death metal who appreciate authentic, aggressive music. The atmosphere will be intense and focused on delivering a powerful sonic experience. Join fellow enthusiasts for an evening of heavy performance. Tickets are available now for those looking to secure their place at this significant metal event.

The Smile You are on Tour event features a premium VIP meet and greet experience for fans of Jutes. This exclusive package provides dedicated access to the artist, offering supporters a chance to engage directly with the musician while enjoying a range of special amenities. Attendees will gain early entry to the venue, allowing for a relaxed arrival and priority access to all official tour merchandise before the general doors open. This is a curated experience designed to bring fans closer to the artist in an intimate setting. Participants will receive a collection of exclusive items including a signed tour poster and CD, a custom tour sticker and pin, and a commemorative tour tote. The package also includes a lanyard with a VIP laminate, providing a lasting keepsake from the tour. The highlight of the event is the personal meet and greet session, which includes a professional photo opportunity with Jutes. This event is perfect for dedicated fans who want to enhance their concert experience with unique collectibles and one on one time. The atmosphere is professional and inviting, ensuring a memorable evening. Secure your VIP pass now to guarantee your spot for this special tour event.

Experience the vibrant sounds of summer at the Sunset Music Series hosted at Waverly Place in Cary, North Carolina. Every Wednesday evening throughout the month of September, the community is invited to gather for an energetic lineup of live performances featuring talented local bands. Whether you are looking to unwind after a productive workday or seeking a lively atmosphere to enjoy with friends and family, this event provides the perfect backdrop for a memorable evening under the open sky. Attendees can enhance their experience by purchasing a variety of beer and wine available on-site. Please note that while the concerts are free to attend, outside coolers and alcoholic beverages are not permitted within the venue. This is a wonderful opportunity to support local musicians while enjoying the welcoming ambiance of the Waverly Place shopping center. Make sure to mark your calendar for these exciting mid-week musical showcases. We encourage you to visit the official Waverly Place website to view the full event schedule and plan your visit. Do not miss out on this fantastic opportunity to celebrate the season with community and song.