Bicentennial Folklife Festival 50th Anniversary Pop-Up

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.

Experience the spirit of community generosity at the Chapel Hill Really Really Free Market. Hosted on the third Monday of each month at the beautiful Southern Village Green, this unique gathering invites residents to participate in a circular economy where everything is offered with no strings attached. Whether you are looking to declutter your home or find new treasures, this event fosters a welcoming environment built on kindness rather than commerce. Participants are encouraged to bring gently used items such as books, clothing, toys, or even share personal skills and musical talents with neighbors. Please remember that this is a community-supported initiative, so guests must take home any items that remain unclaimed by the end of the event. This gathering is the perfect opportunity to meet local residents while supporting sustainable living practices in our region. Stay connected and informed by following the official chapelhillrrfm account on Instagram for the latest event updates and announcements. We look forward to seeing you at the green for a morning of sharing, connecting, and celebrating our vibrant Chapel Hill community.

Step back in time to celebrate a historic milestone as we commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Bicentennial Folklife Festival. Fifty years ago, the Durham community gathered at West Point on the Eno to honor American heritage with a vibrant showcase of North Carolina traditions, arts, and music. The Museum of Durham History is proud to host a special pop-up exhibit that brings this cherished moment back to life through original photographs, personal memories, and nostalgic melodies. We invite you to join us for an informal reception during Third Friday on July 17, 2026, from 6 to 8 p.m. at our downtown location. This free event offers a wonderful opportunity to explore historic images, listen to captivating stories from those who experienced the original 1976 celebration, and connect with the rich cultural legacy of Durham. Whether you were there five decades ago or are discovering this unique piece of history for the first time, your presence will make the evening even more meaningful. We look forward to seeing you there as we honor our shared past and celebrate the spirit of our community.

Pot-A-Plant is an interactive workshop hosted at the Chapel designed to help participants improve their plant care skills. This hands-on session provides all necessary materials for attendees to successfully pot their own four-inch Pothos plant while personalizing a terracotta planter. Expert gardener Megan Cain leads the session, offering professional guidance and answering specific questions about plant maintenance. With over twelve years of experience featured on platforms like HGTV and Good Morning America, she simplifies complex gardening techniques into manageable steps. Participants receive all required tools and supplies, ensuring a comprehensive learning experience focused on long-term plant health and troubleshooting common issues. This event is perfect for both novice plant owners and experienced enthusiasts looking to refine their skills. The relaxed, inclusive atmosphere encourages open discussion, making it an excellent opportunity to learn in a supportive environment. Whether you are coming alone or bringing friends, you will leave with a healthy plant and the confidence to keep it thriving. Secure your spot today to develop the green thumb you have always wanted.

Step back in time to celebrate a historic milestone as we commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Bicentennial Folklife Festival. Fifty years ago, the Durham community gathered at West Point on the Eno to honor American heritage with a vibrant showcase of North Carolina traditions, arts, and music. The Museum of Durham History is proud to host a special pop-up exhibit that brings this cherished moment back to life through original photographs, personal memories, and nostalgic melodies. We invite you to join us for an informal reception during Third Friday on July 17, 2026, from 6 to 8 p.m. at our downtown location. This free event offers a wonderful opportunity to explore historic images, listen to captivating stories from those who experienced the original 1976 celebration, and connect with the rich cultural legacy of Durham. Whether you were there five decades ago or are discovering this unique piece of history for the first time, your presence will make the evening even more meaningful. We look forward to seeing you there as we honor our shared past and celebrate the spirit of our community.

Experience the rich heritage of North Carolina agriculture at the annual Brightleaf Harvest Day held at the historic Duke Homestead in Durham. This immersive event invites guests to step back in time and witness traditional tobacco harvesting and looping demonstrations. Visitors of all ages are encouraged to participate in these hands-on historical activities or engage with knowledgeable interpreters stationed throughout the preserved buildings to learn about the site's unique cultural significance. In addition to the historical demonstrations, the Duke Homestead Education and History Corporation will host a delicious barbecue lunch fundraiser on the grounds. Guests can enjoy a classic meal featuring pulled pork, green beans, and potatoes while supporting essential site maintenance, educational programming, and staff development. This event offers a fantastic opportunity for families and history enthusiasts to spend a rewarding morning outdoors. Admission to the festivities is free, making this a perfect weekend outing for the entire community. We look forward to seeing you on August 22, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. to celebrate our regional history. Please join us at Duke Homestead to help sustain this local treasure.

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.

Step back in time to celebrate a historic milestone as we commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Bicentennial Folklife Festival. Fifty years ago, the Durham community gathered at West Point on the Eno to honor American heritage with a vibrant showcase of North Carolina traditions, arts, and music. The Museum of Durham History is proud to host a special pop-up exhibit that brings this cherished moment back to life through original photographs, personal memories, and nostalgic melodies. We invite you to join us for an informal reception during Third Friday on July 17, 2026, from 6 to 8 p.m. at our downtown location. This free event offers a wonderful opportunity to explore historic images, listen to captivating stories from those who experienced the original 1976 celebration, and connect with the rich cultural legacy of Durham. Whether you were there five decades ago or are discovering this unique piece of history for the first time, your presence will make the evening even more meaningful. We look forward to seeing you there as we honor our shared past and celebrate the spirit of our community.

Artful Story Time is an interactive program that pairs children literature with original works of art. The event explores visual storytelling through reading and movement to help children connect with museum collections in a meaningful way. Each session offers a unique experience designed to encourage curiosity and creative thinking in young participants. Attendees will listen to rotating featured readers who bring stories to life throughout the museum galleries. Because the event frequently changes locations and content, every session provides a fresh perspective and a new way to engage with art. This experience is specifically tailored for young children and their caregivers who enjoy immersive learning. The atmosphere is energetic, welcoming, and designed to foster a love for both reading and art history. Whether you are a regular visitor or attending for the first time, you will find an engaging environment that supports early childhood development. We invite families to join us for these sessions to discover new stories and explore the museum galleries together. Please check the current schedule for specific locations and featured readers before your visit.

The Mindful Museum Summer Singing Bowl Sound Bath is a guided meditation session held within our museum galleries. This event utilizes resonant sound instruments to provide a restorative experience designed to calm the nervous system and promote deep relaxation for all participants. During this session, you will experience the soothing vibrations of crystal singing bowls. These instruments create an immersive auditory environment that encourages a parasympathetic state. This practice is specifically designed to help decrease daily stress and enhance overall rest. The resonant sounds fill the gallery space, offering a unique opportunity for healing and quiet reflection in an artistic setting. This event is open to anyone seeking a break from the pace of daily life. The atmosphere is quiet and welcoming, making it ideal for those interested in mindfulness, meditation, or simply finding a moment of peace. No prior experience with sound baths is required to participate. We invite you to join us for this restorative session to recharge your mind and body. Please reserve your spot in advance to ensure your space in this limited capacity experience.