Big Summer GlowOut

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.

Get ready to move with KatMoves Travelling Studio as they bring high energy and fun to Hillsborough with recurring weekly line dancing classes. Every Tuesday through December 15, 2026, participants of all ages and skill levels are invited to the Snow Approach Foundation at 129 E King Street from 6 to 7 p.m. These sessions are designed to be accessible and enjoyable, beginning with structured instruction on specific footwork and patterns before transitioning into a review and full dance practice. The relaxed teaching environment ensures everyone feels welcome regardless of their dance background. While these sessions are provided free of charge, there is an optional tip jar available on site. A portion of all proceeds directly supports the Snow Approach Foundation, which is dedicated to improving the quality of life for individuals living with dementia and other brain conditions. This is a wonderful opportunity to stay active, learn new skills, and support a vital community organization. We look forward to seeing you there to dance the evening away. No advance reservation is required, so please drop in whenever you are ready to join the fun.

Join the Capital Squares dance group for an energetic and welcoming experience at St. James United Methodist Church in Raleigh. Whether you are a seasoned dancer or a curious newcomer, these square dance parties offer an evening filled with upbeat music, infectious laughter, and a low-pressure environment. You do not need a partner or prior experience to enjoy these sessions, as a friendly caller guides participants through every move. It is a fantastic way to meet new people and get active in a community setting that celebrates fun over perfection. In addition to our lively dance parties, we are excited to offer a beginner square dance lesson series starting this October. This is the perfect opportunity to learn the foundations of this traditional American dance form in a supportive atmosphere. Space is limited for the lesson series, so early registration is highly encouraged. Please visit our website to secure your spot, view the full calendar of upcoming events, and find detailed directions to the venue. We look forward to seeing you on the dance floor.

Experience the joy of movement at the weekly Ballroom Dancing Social hosted by Pullen Dance. Held most Wednesday evenings at the Pullen Park Community Center, this inviting event offers a vibrant space for dancers of all skill levels to practice their craft. Whether you are a beginner looking to find your rhythm or a seasoned pro ready to glide across the floor, you will find a welcoming atmosphere filled with fellow enthusiasts. Participants can enjoy a wide array of dance styles including salsa, cha-cha, rumba, swing, foxtrot, and waltz set to high-quality recorded music. The evening is designed to be affordable and inclusive, creating a perfect community environment for social connection. Attendees are encouraged to bring light snacks to share as they enjoy an active night of music and dance. Do not miss this opportunity to stay active and socialize in the heart of Raleigh. For the latest schedule updates or to learn more about upcoming special programs featuring live music, please visit the official Pullen Dance website. Grab your dancing shoes and join us for an unforgettable evening.

Join us for an exciting series of Pop-Up Play Dates held at the scenic Market Square at Sweetwater Town Center in Apex, North Carolina. These vibrant morning gatherings are designed specifically for children and families to enjoy the beautiful summer weather together. Every Tuesday throughout August 2026, we transform the lawn into a hub of activity featuring a variety of engaging outdoor games and fun movement exercises that encourage active play and socialization in a safe environment. These sessions are entirely free to attend, making them the perfect opportunity for local families to connect and start their mornings with energy and joy. Whether you are looking for a way to keep the kids entertained or seeking a fun community experience, our play dates offer the ideal setting for making new friends. We encourage all interested parents and guardians to monitor our Facebook page for the latest updates and any schedule adjustments. Come visit us at 2701 Lawnview Lane between 9 and 10:30 a.m. to experience the fun firsthand. We look forward to seeing you and your little ones on the lawn this August.

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.

Triangle Cinemas, located at 9500 Forum Drive in Raleigh, North Carolina, invites local families to enjoy a series of complimentary movie screenings throughout the summer months. From June 16 to August 20, 2026, guests can catch a variety of popular films, including the beloved feature Trolls, every Tuesday through Thursday, with several special Friday showings added to the schedule. Doors open promptly at 9:30 a.m. each morning, with the screenings starting at 10:00 a.m. This community-focused initiative provides a fantastic, budget-friendly way for children to stay entertained and engaged during their summer break. While no outside food or beverages are permitted inside the theater, a variety of tasty treats will be available for purchase at the concessions stand. Whether you are looking to escape the heat or simply enjoy a morning of cinema with your little ones, this program is the perfect outing. We encourage you to visit our website today to check the full schedule of films and plan your next visit to Triangle Cinemas for an unforgettable summer movie experience.

Join us for an exciting series of Pop-Up Play Dates held at the scenic Market Square at Sweetwater Town Center in Apex, North Carolina. These vibrant morning gatherings are designed specifically for children and families to enjoy the beautiful summer weather together. Every Tuesday throughout August 2026, we transform the lawn into a hub of activity featuring a variety of engaging outdoor games and fun movement exercises that encourage active play and socialization in a safe environment. These sessions are entirely free to attend, making them the perfect opportunity for local families to connect and start their mornings with energy and joy. Whether you are looking for a way to keep the kids entertained or seeking a fun community experience, our play dates offer the ideal setting for making new friends. We encourage all interested parents and guardians to monitor our Facebook page for the latest updates and any schedule adjustments. Come visit us at 2701 Lawnview Lane between 9 and 10:30 a.m. to experience the fun firsthand. We look forward to seeing you and your little ones on the lawn this August.

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.

Triangle Cinemas, located at 9500 Forum Drive in Raleigh, North Carolina, invites local families to enjoy a series of complimentary movie screenings throughout the summer months. From June 16 to August 20, 2026, guests can catch a variety of popular films, including the beloved feature Trolls, every Tuesday through Thursday, with several special Friday showings added to the schedule. Doors open promptly at 9:30 a.m. each morning, with the screenings starting at 10:00 a.m. This community-focused initiative provides a fantastic, budget-friendly way for children to stay entertained and engaged during their summer break. While no outside food or beverages are permitted inside the theater, a variety of tasty treats will be available for purchase at the concessions stand. Whether you are looking to escape the heat or simply enjoy a morning of cinema with your little ones, this program is the perfect outing. We encourage you to visit our website today to check the full schedule of films and plan your next visit to Triangle Cinemas for an unforgettable summer movie experience.

Join us for an exciting series of Pop-Up Play Dates held at the scenic Market Square at Sweetwater Town Center in Apex, North Carolina. These vibrant morning gatherings are designed specifically for children and families to enjoy the beautiful summer weather together. Every Tuesday throughout August 2026, we transform the lawn into a hub of activity featuring a variety of engaging outdoor games and fun movement exercises that encourage active play and socialization in a safe environment. These sessions are entirely free to attend, making them the perfect opportunity for local families to connect and start their mornings with energy and joy. Whether you are looking for a way to keep the kids entertained or seeking a fun community experience, our play dates offer the ideal setting for making new friends. We encourage all interested parents and guardians to monitor our Facebook page for the latest updates and any schedule adjustments. Come visit us at 2701 Lawnview Lane between 9 and 10:30 a.m. to experience the fun firsthand. We look forward to seeing you and your little ones on the lawn this August.

A Brush of History is an instructional architectural sketching workshop hosted at the historic Pugh House. This class provides participants with the opportunity to observe, interpret, and capture the structural details of this landmark building through pencil drawing and watercolor painting. Participants will begin by learning to map architectural forms using foundational pencil techniques. Once the composition is set, the class will progress to applying loose watercolor washes to bring the scene to life with color. Instructors will guide students through the process of simplifying complex historic features into manageable artistic elements, ensuring a focused and productive session for all skill levels. This event is designed for beginners who are interested in history, architecture, or introductory fine arts. You will enjoy a creative atmosphere that blends local heritage with artistic practice in a supportive setting. Whether you are looking to develop your sketching skills or simply spend a relaxing day exploring the Pugh House, this workshop offers a unique perspective on our community landmarks. Registration is now open, so please secure your spot to participate in this engaging creative experience.

Experience the vibrant heartbeat of urban agriculture at Raleigh City Farm, a premier nonprofit dedicated to sustainable farming and community connection. Starting April 15, 2026, and continuing every Wednesday through October, we invite you to our farm stand from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. to enjoy fresh, locally grown produce offered on a pay what you can basis. This inclusive initiative ensures that everyone in our community has access to healthy, seasonal harvests directly from our downtown oasis. After browsing the farm stand, join our dedicated group of volunteers for Wine and Weeds. From 6 p.m. to 7 p.m., you can get your hands dirty while learning about regenerative agriculture, site stewardship, and native plants. This social gathering is the perfect opportunity to make new friends while enjoying a complimentary beverage donated by Wine Authorities. Whether you are a gardening enthusiast or simply looking to support local food systems, there is a place for you here. Sign up online today to reserve your spot and help us cultivate a greener future for Raleigh.

Sharpen your tactical skills and enjoy a vibrant social atmosphere at the weekly Durham Chess Enthusiasts gathering. Held every Tuesday evening at the welcoming Der Nachbar Bottleshop and Taps, this event invites players of all skill levels to come together for friendly competition and community engagement. Whether you are a seasoned grandmaster or a curious beginner eager to learn the game, you will find an encouraging environment waiting for you in the heart of Durham. Der Nachbar provides the perfect backdrop for these matches, offering a wide selection of craft beers, wines, and non-alcoholic beverages. Feel free to bring your own takeout, enjoy the dog-friendly patio, or grab a snack from the rotating selection of local food trucks. Attendance is completely free, making it an accessible way to spend your Tuesday night. Please note that while all are welcome to participate, an adult must accompany any players under the age of eighteen. Join us this Tuesday from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. to test your strategy and meet fellow chess enthusiasts in a relaxed, local setting.

Join the vibrant Run, Sweat, Beers RUN CLUB at Growler Grlz in Durham, where fitness meets a welcoming social atmosphere. This long-standing group meets every Tuesday from 6 to 9 p.m. to celebrate movement and community. Whether you are an avid runner or a casual walker, you are encouraged to join this inclusive group for a refreshing workout followed by a delicious craft beverage in the taproom. There is no formal registration process, so simply show up ready to move and socialize with fellow local enthusiasts. As an added incentive for those joining for the first time, your first dozen sessions will earn you a complimentary branded t-shirt. Growler Grlz is renowned for its diverse selection of fresh craft beer and its commitment to hosting engaging local gatherings. This weekly tradition is the perfect way to stay active while enjoying a premier taproom experience. Gather your friends or come solo to meet new people in a friendly, high-energy environment. We look forward to seeing you there for your next run.

Join us every Tuesday at Der Nachbar Bottleshop and Taps in Durham for an exciting evening of chance and refreshment. Our popular Tuesday Toss event invites guests to roll the dice to determine their fate, offering a chance to secure a delicious draft beer for just five dollars. It is the perfect way to spice up your week with a bit of friendly competition and great value in a welcoming atmosphere. Located on Hillsborough Road, our shop features twenty rotating taps, a curated wine selection, and several non-alcoholic options to satisfy every palate. Whether you choose to relax on our pet-friendly patio or enjoy the cozy indoor space, we invite you to make yourself at home. Feel free to bring your own takeout or enjoy snacks from local favorites like Guglhupf Bakery. We strive to create a vibrant community space where neighbors can connect and unwind. Come roll the dice with us this Tuesday and discover why Der Nachbar is your go-to destination for local brews and good times. Visit us today to experience the fun firsthand.