Bones & Botanicals

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.

Toddler Tuesday: Digging for Dinosaurs is an interactive educational workshop led by Mad Science designed to introduce young children to the fundamentals of paleontology. This session provides a structured environment where toddlers explore the prehistoric world through hands-on learning and guided discovery. Participants will investigate the physical differences between meat-eating and plant-eating dinosaurs. The experience includes a close-up look at authentic-style dinosaur teeth to spark curiosity. Children will then take on the role of paleontologists by engaging in a mini dinosaur dig. These activities are specifically crafted to build scientific knowledge while maintaining an engaging pace suitable for young learners. Every component is designed to turn complex concepts into accessible play. This class is tailored for toddlers eager to learn about history and biology in a fun setting. The atmosphere is supportive, active, and focused on sensory discovery. It is an excellent opportunity for children to develop their observation skills while enjoying a unique group experience. Parents are encouraged to register soon to secure a spot for their little explorers in this popular weekly science series.

Casual Calligraphy Lettering is a hands-on workshop dedicated to the art of beautiful handwriting. This session teaches fundamental lettering styles and essential stroke techniques to help you master the basics of traditional calligraphy. It provides a structured environment for those who want to develop a new creative skill. Participants will learn to use professional calligraphy tools under the guidance of experienced instructors. The curriculum covers basic letter formation and page composition to ensure balanced and elegant results. You will practice various alphabet styles and gain confidence in controlling ink flow and pressure. All necessary tools are provided during the session to support your learning experience. This event is perfect for beginners and individuals interested in mindfulness through analog creation. The atmosphere is relaxed and supportive, making it an ideal setting to slow down and focus on detail. Whether you want to improve your personal correspondence or simply enjoy a quiet creative outlet, this class offers a rewarding experience. Space is limited to ensure personal attention for every attendee. Register today to secure your place and begin your calligraphy journey.

Birds and Bloomers is a guided outdoor educational tour focused on the intersection of local flowering plants and bird populations at Downtown Cary Park. This session provides participants with an expert look at the ecosystems that support regional wildlife within our urban environment. Dr. Patrick McMillan, an Emmy-award winning naturalist, horticulturist, and author, will lead the group through the park to identify various bird species. Attendees will learn specific techniques for identifying birds through sound, sight, and behavioral patterns. The tour also covers practical landscaping tips, teaching participants how to transform their own backyards into hospitable environments for birds through thoughtful planting and maintenance. This event is designed for nature enthusiasts, amateur birders, and gardening hobbyists who want to deepen their understanding of local biodiversity. The atmosphere is professional yet accessible for all skill levels. Please bring your own binoculars to fully participate in the observation activities. Join us to gain valuable insights from a leading expert while exploring the natural beauty of the park. Registration is open for anyone interested in enhancing their connection to local wildlife and horticultural practices.

Experience an evening of inspiration at the Eno Arts Mill in Hillsborough, a vibrant hub managed by the Orange County Arts Commission. On September 4 from 6 to 9 p.m., join us for a special First Friday celebration featuring the captivating Colors of Soul exhibit, curated by the Inter-Latin American Artist Collective. This event brings together an impressive lineup of talented local creators to share their vision with the community. The evening promises a dynamic blend of visual arts, live musical performances, and poetic expressions. Beyond the main exhibit, attendees can explore open artist studios and discover the diverse range of creative workshops available, spanning from fiber arts to figure drawing. It is the perfect opportunity to engage with local culture and support regional artists in a unique historic setting. We invite everyone to visit the Eno Arts Mill for this free, energetic gathering. Whether you are an art enthusiast or looking for a meaningful outing, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Please visit the official website to learn more and secure your spot today.

Experience the vibrant energy of community music making at the One Tribe Drum Circle held at the scenic Dix Park Stone Houses Visitor Center in Raleigh. Taking place on the first Friday of every month from June through November, these sessions offer a unique opportunity to connect with others through the power of rhythm. Whether you are an experienced percussionist or a complete beginner, all are welcome to participate in this uplifting and stress-relieving activity. You are encouraged to bring your own hand percussion instruments, though One Tribe provides plenty of gear for those who do not have their own. Seating is provided for your convenience, ensuring a comfortable environment for everyone to enjoy the music. This inclusive event is designed to promote self-expression and foster local connections in a beautiful outdoor setting. While registration is requested, the organizers welcome drop-in attendees even if the event appears sold out online. Join us for this accessible and rhythmic celebration of community spirit. For the latest updates and additional details, please follow One Tribe on their official social media pages.

Discover your inner creator at Artspace, a premier visual arts center located in the heart of downtown Raleigh. We invite art enthusiasts of all skill levels to join our dynamic community for First Friday events. Experience an evening of inspiration featuring live artist showcases, interactive art-making activities, and captivating performances. Join us from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. to explore our diverse exhibitions in a vibrant atmosphere. We are proud to offer a sensory-friendly hour from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m., ensuring an accessible and welcoming environment for every visitor. Beyond our monthly celebrations, we encourage families and individuals to participate in our recurring Open Studio sessions. Held every Sunday, these self-guided workshops provide a perfect setting to let your imagination soar through beginner-level projects designed for ages five and up. Both of these signature programs are completely free to the public, fostering creativity throughout our local community. Whether you are seeking a unique date night or a fun weekend activity for the children, Artspace provides the perfect cultural destination. Visit our website today to view our full event calendar and register for your next creative adventure.

Experience the vibrant energy of community music making at the One Tribe Drum Circle held at the scenic Dix Park Stone Houses Visitor Center in Raleigh. Taking place on the first Friday of every month from June through November, these sessions offer a unique opportunity to connect with others through the power of rhythm. Whether you are an experienced percussionist or a complete beginner, all are welcome to participate in this uplifting and stress-relieving activity. You are encouraged to bring your own hand percussion instruments, though One Tribe provides plenty of gear for those who do not have their own. Seating is provided for your convenience, ensuring a comfortable environment for everyone to enjoy the music. This inclusive event is designed to promote self-expression and foster local connections in a beautiful outdoor setting. While registration is requested, the organizers welcome drop-in attendees even if the event appears sold out online. Join us for this accessible and rhythmic celebration of community spirit. For the latest updates and additional details, please follow One Tribe on their official social media pages.

Experience an unforgettable evening of music and relaxation at the Bands, Bites and Boats concert series, hosted at the picturesque Bond Park Boathouse in Cary. This recurring community event brings together the best of the local scene, featuring talented musicians, diverse food truck offerings, and refreshing selections from local breweries. Whether you choose to set up a lawn chair on the scenic shore or rent a boat to enjoy the tunes while drifting peacefully on the lake, this series offers a perfect atmosphere for guests of all ages. These free outdoor gatherings are held on the first Friday of every month from April through October. It is an ideal way to unwind after a long week while supporting local artists and businesses in a beautiful natural setting. Please note that while the music and event entry are free, food, beverages, and boat rentals are available for purchase on site. We invite you to join us for an evening of melody, flavor, and community spirit at Bond Park.

Music in the Park is a recurring summer concert series that hosts live performances by local bands on Friday nights. This monthly event brings the community together for outdoor entertainment in a relaxed park setting. Each concert is free to attend and open to the public. Guests can enjoy live music from Echo Blvd while relaxing outdoors. The event features on site dining options provided by Empanadas and More Food Truck. Attendees are encouraged to bring blankets or lawn chairs to find a comfortable spot on the grass. The series is designed to be accessible and welcoming for individuals and families of all ages looking for a convenient start to their weekend. The atmosphere is casual and community focused, making it an ideal destination for a relaxing evening under the stars. Whether you are a local music fan or simply seeking a fun activity with friends and family, this series offers a great way to engage with the neighborhood. Please join us this summer for a night of music and food.