Black History Walking Tour

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.

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.

Experience the vibrant spirit of the African American Cultural Festival of Raleigh and Wake County, a premier annual celebration taking place during Labor Day Weekend on September 5 and 6, 2026. This dynamic event transforms downtown Raleigh into a lively hub of creativity and connection, showcasing the rich diversity of African American heritage. Attendees will enjoy an immersive experience featuring live music performances, traditional and contemporary dance displays, and local art installations that honor cultural history and innovation. Guests can also savor a variety of delicious food offerings that reflect the soul and culinary traditions of the community. This family friendly gathering is completely free to attend and open to the public, making it the perfect opportunity to celebrate unity and artistic expression. As you explore the various exhibits and stages along Fayetteville Street, you will encounter the heartbeat of the local community. We encourage everyone to mark their calendars and join us for this unforgettable weekend. Please visit the official festival website at aacfestival.org or follow our Facebook page for the latest updates and schedule announcements as they become available. We look forward to seeing you there.

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.

Are you passionate about the rich heritage and unique stories that define our community? The Chatham County Historical Association invites you to join the Siler City History Club, a vibrant gathering dedicated to preserving the local legacy of Siler City. This engaging program serves as an opportunity for residents to connect, share personal memories, and contribute authentic mementos to our growing historical collection. Whether you have lived here for decades or are a recent arrival eager to learn about your new home, your voice is an essential part of our shared narrative. Our meetings offer a welcoming environment designed for listening, learning, and making new friends in a collaborative setting. We meet every other month to ensure that the stories of our town continue to thrive for future generations. This event is entirely free to the public, and we encourage you to bring a friend along for an hour of meaningful discovery and connection. Come share your experiences and help us document the vibrant spirit of Siler City. We look forward to seeing you there.

Discover the hidden stories of Raleigh at the Historic Oakwood Cemetery, a sprawling 72 acre landmark with over 140 years of fascinating history. As the final resting place for governors, senators, and Civil War generals, this beautiful park-like setting offers a unique window into the past. Join us for our First Friday Cemetery Tours, held monthly from June through October. Led by knowledgeable guides, these evening strolls invite you to explore the lives of the famous and infamous residents buried within these historic grounds. Your participation directly supports vital monument preservation efforts, ensuring this legacy continues for generations to come. Whether you are a local history enthusiast or simply looking for an engaging outdoor activity, these tours promise an unforgettable experience. Please remember to dress for the weather, bring plenty of water, and come prepared with questions about our local heritage and the death industry. Tickets are priced at ten dollars per person and registration is required to secure your spot. Visit our website today to view the full calendar and book your tour of this captivating historic site.

Little Raleigh Radio presents Groove History, a listening party series hosted at the City of Raleigh Museum. This event highlights records that define Raleigh's creative history and artistic evolution through deep dives into significant local albums. The session focuses on the band The Veldt and their 1989 record, Illuminated 1989. Attendees can expect an engaging evening featuring a live performance by The Veldt, insightful interviews with the band members, and a curated playback session of their debut album. The Veldt will take the stage for their live set around 7:45pm. This event is an excellent opportunity for music fans, local history enthusiasts, and followers of the shoegaze rock genre to connect with pioneers of the local music scene. Experience the unique atmosphere of the City of Raleigh Museum during this special First Friday event. Join us from 6pm to 9pm to celebrate the release of a foundational record that was once shelved for decades but now receives the recognition it deserves. We invite you to experience this compelling piece of local musical heritage in an intimate museum setting.

Discover the hidden stories of Raleigh at the Historic Oakwood Cemetery, a sprawling 72 acre landmark with over 140 years of fascinating history. As the final resting place for governors, senators, and Civil War generals, this beautiful park-like setting offers a unique window into the past. Join us for our First Friday Cemetery Tours, held monthly from June through October. Led by knowledgeable guides, these evening strolls invite you to explore the lives of the famous and infamous residents buried within these historic grounds. Your participation directly supports vital monument preservation efforts, ensuring this legacy continues for generations to come. Whether you are a local history enthusiast or simply looking for an engaging outdoor activity, these tours promise an unforgettable experience. Please remember to dress for the weather, bring plenty of water, and come prepared with questions about our local heritage and the death industry. Tickets are priced at ten dollars per person and registration is required to secure your spot. Visit our website today to view the full calendar and book your tour of this captivating historic site.

Experience the rich political history of North Carolina with a visit to the iconic State Capitol building in downtown Raleigh. This National Historic Landmark, completed in 1840, stands as a stunning example of Greek Revival architecture and offers a fascinating journey into the state's legislative past. Guests are invited to explore the historic rotunda, the former senate and house chambers, and the elegant state library. On Saturdays, the Capitol hosts free guided tours at 11 a.m., 1 p.m., and 3 p.m. These sessions are perfect for history enthusiasts and families alike, providing deep insights into the building's role in government. No reservations are required for these guided experiences, simply arrive at the front entrance to join the group. For those who prefer a flexible schedule, self-guided tours are available throughout the week during standard operating hours. We encourage you to visit this pillar of Raleigh history to see these well-preserved chambers firsthand. Whether you are a local resident or a visitor, this free opportunity is an excellent way to learn about our state heritage. Check the official Facebook page for any schedule updates before your arrival.

Discover the profound legacy of Raleigh at the historic Oakwood Cemetery. Spanning seventy-two acres and over one hundred and forty years of history, this park-like setting serves as the final resting place for numerous state and national leaders. We invite you to join our Stroll Through History tours, which take place on the second and fourth Thursday of each month. These complimentary community gatherings offer an informal yet engaging way to explore different sections of the grounds. Each tour is unique, featuring fresh research and captivating stories that bring the past to life. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a regular attendee, you will appreciate the small group environment that allows for interactive dialogue and tailored exploration of local history. It is a wonderful opportunity to learn about the individuals who shaped our region while enjoying a serene walk in nature. Please visit our website to view the full event calendar and plan your visit. We look forward to sharing these fascinating narratives with you as we walk through history together.