Avery Anna

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!

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.

Electric Feels is a recurring dance party dedicated to the fusion of indie rock and electronic music. The event provides a high energy environment where attendees can experience a curated selection of tracks from both genres in a social setting. Participants can expect a continuous mix of popular indie hits and upbeat electronic dance music throughout the night. Professional DJs will manage the soundscape to ensure a seamless flow between nostalgic indie anthems and modern dance floor favorites. The venue features a spacious dance floor, full bar service, and a professional lighting setup designed to enhance the overall atmosphere of the evening. This event is tailored for fans of indie rock and electronic music who enjoy dancing and connecting with like minded people. Whether you are a dedicated music lover or just looking for a lively weekend activity, this party offers a welcoming space for everyone. Tickets are available online in advance, and guests are encouraged to arrive early to avoid lines at the door. Join us for a night of rhythm and high energy music.

Trap Karaoke is an interactive musical event that transforms traditional karaoke into a high-energy, immersive stage experience. While the name suggests trap music, the event features a diverse range of genres and musical styles. It is designed for those who want to step into the spotlight and be the center of attention. Attendees can expect an unpredictable environment where the line between audience and performer vanishes. Participants may find themselves performing on stage, appearing on the big screen, or joining impromptu challenges. There is no requirement for every attendee to sing, as the focus remains on personal expression and active audience engagement. The show is built on spontaneous moments that ensure no two experiences are identical. This event is perfect for individuals who enjoy live music, energetic social settings, and creative self-expression. The atmosphere is celebratory and inclusive, encouraging guests to be themselves in a dynamic public space. If you are looking for a unique night out that breaks the mold of a standard performance, secure your ticket now to join the experience in person.

The 2000s Rave at the Ritz is a themed music event dedicated to the iconic dance hits and electronic sounds of the early millennium. This production brings together fans of the era for a night of high-energy nostalgia and immersive auditory experiences. Attendees will celebrate the music that defined the decade through curated DJ sets and light displays. The evening features a lineup of professional DJs spinning classic tracks from the 2000s electronic and dance scene. You can expect a high-fidelity sound system and a choreographed laser show designed to recreate the atmosphere of legendary raves from that period. The venue will feature multiple dance zones and a full-service bar area to keep the energy levels high throughout the night. This event is tailored for music enthusiasts who appreciate the legacy of 2000s dance culture. The atmosphere is vibrant, social, and focused on collective enjoyment of the music. Tickets are available for purchase online. Plan to arrive early to ensure entry and secure your spot on the dance floor for this unique musical journey.

The African American Cultural Festival of Raleigh and Wake County is an annual event dedicated to uniting and educating the community through the arts. Held in downtown Raleigh on September 5 to 6, 2026, it serves as a platform to celebrate the heritage and creativity of African American culture. Attendees can explore a wide variety of interactive experiences including live music, theater performances, and dance showcases. The event highlights both local and national talent while hosting numerous visual artists. Guests will also find an array of craft vendors, retail merchants, and diverse food options to enjoy throughout the weekend. This family friendly festival is free and open to the public, making it an accessible destination for visitors from across the country. The atmosphere is vibrant, engaging, and designed to foster connection among diverse groups of people. Whether you are a local resident or visiting from out of town, this celebration offers a unique opportunity to engage with meaningful cultural expressions. Mark your calendars for Labor Day weekend to join this significant community experience and participate in the festivities.

The 17th Annual African American Cultural Festival of Raleigh and Wake County is a community celebration dedicated to honoring African American culture through the arts. Held in downtown Raleigh during Labor Day weekend on September 5 and 6, 2026, the event aims to unite and educate a diverse audience through meaningful cultural expression. Attendees can experience a wide range of performances and exhibits highlighting visual arts, music, theater, and dance. The festival features a dynamic lineup of both local and national talent. Visitors will also find an extensive collection of craft, merchant, and food vendors providing a variety of shopping and dining options throughout the event grounds. This family friendly festival is free and accessible to all members of the public, making it an ideal destination for visitors traveling from across the country. The atmosphere is interactive, inclusive, and designed to foster community engagement. Whether you are interested in artistic discovery or simply looking to enjoy a vibrant cultural experience, this festival offers something for everyone. Join us in downtown Raleigh for this milestone celebration and become a part of the experience.

Join the community for a high-energy evening at the Beats & Bars Music Trivia Night, hosted at The Durham Hotel. This exciting event celebrates the rich tapestry of Black music, bringing together fans for a nostalgic competition that tests your deep knowledge of hip-hop, R&B, soul, funk, and Southern classics. Whether you are a casual listener or a dedicated music enthusiast, this trivia night offers a perfect platform to showcase your expertise while connecting with fellow fans in a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere. Gather your crew, form your team, and prepare for an unforgettable night of competition and good vibes. This event is part of the broader Beats & Bars Music Festival, a milestone celebration returning to Durham for its tenth year to honor creativity and culture. Entry to the trivia night is entirely free, making it an accessible opportunity to engage with Durham's thriving music scene. We invite you to bring your passion for music and join us for this unique cultural experience. Secure your spot now and get ready to celebrate the artistry and history of the music we love.

The Stained Glass Ghost Workshop is a hands-on creative session where you will craft your own custom glass ghost art piece from scratch. This workshop introduces participants to the essential techniques of stained glass fabrication in a supportive studio environment. Throughout the session you will learn how to prepare glass pieces using copper foil, assemble your design, and apply solder to complete your project. Our professional instructor provides step by step guidance through each phase of the process to ensure you gain practical skills while working with high quality materials. All necessary tools and safety equipment are provided on site. This event is perfect for beginners and craft enthusiasts who want to learn a new skill without needing any prior stained glass experience. The atmosphere is social and focused on creative expression, making it a great way to spend an afternoon. Space is limited to ensure personalized instruction for every attendee. Reserve your spot today to participate in this unique craft experience and take home a finished piece of art that you created yourself.

Empire of the Sun is bringing their Ask That God: Afterlife tour to North American stages, offering fans a signature blend of electronic pop music. The tour highlights the duo’s latest artistic direction while maintaining the high-energy sound that launched their career. Attendees can expect an immersive concert experience featuring the band members Luke Steele and Nick Littlemore. The performances are defined by elaborate stage production, including choreographed dancers and advanced visual elements. You will hear a mix of classic dance hits alongside new material, all supported by their hallmark adrenalized synths and polished electro beats. This tour serves as a testament to their long-standing reputation for theatrical showmanship. This event is designed for fans of modern electronic music and those who appreciate large-scale live productions. The atmosphere is vibrant and designed to be an active, high-energy experience. Whether you have followed the duo since their 2008 debut or are new to their sound, this show offers a compelling look at their evolving artistic vision. Secure your tickets early to experience this unique tour in person.

This concert features a triple bill of underground extreme metal bands performing at Kings. The event showcases a night of heavy music ranging from doom and sludge to death metal, providing a raw and intense live music experience for fans of the genre. The lineup includes Miami based doom and sludge outfit Crud, known for their crushing low frequency distortion and heavy sound. They are joined by Raleigh death metal favorites Pathogenesis, who bring a high level of technical proficiency to the stage. Rounding out the bill is the Richmond based brutal gore death metal act Excrementia, a new project featuring experienced members from bands such as Disrotter, Vigil, and Hellion Child. This show is tailored for followers of the extreme metal scene who appreciate high volume and aggressive performance styles. The atmosphere promises to be intense and focused on heavy riffing. If you enjoy sludge, doom, or death metal, this performance offers a concentrated look at the regional underground scene. Secure your spot at Kings to witness these three distinct acts perform back to back in a single evening of heavy music.