Carolina Circus Festival

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!

Project 800 is an immersive art exhibit dedicated to raising awareness and funds to combat global extreme poverty. The event highlights the reality that 800 million people currently live in extreme poverty, emphasizing the urgent need to address this global humanitarian challenge. Attendees will explore various artistic mediums, including sculpture, video, augmented reality, print, and sound installations. Each piece utilizes the concept of 800 to demonstrate the immense scale of this population. These creative works invite visitors to engage with the sensation of space and form while reflecting on the human potential hindered by poverty. The exhibit serves as a fundraiser for the Borgen Project, a non-profit organization that lobbies governments to implement policies aimed at ending extreme poverty worldwide. This event is perfect for art enthusiasts, social activists, and anyone interested in global development. It offers a professional yet thought-provoking atmosphere designed to inspire collective action. Join us to experience unique perspectives on this critical issue and contribute to a meaningful cause. Tickets are available now to support advocacy efforts that change lives globally.

This three-hour mini-retreat provides a curated space for active adults 55 and older to engage in creative expression and wellness. Located at Mini-Acres Farm near Raleigh, the event focuses on nourishing the mind, body, and spirit through a blend of mindfulness, movement, and community connection. Participants will engage in guided creative activities, light physical movement, and facilitated conversation. The session is led by rhythm expert Greg Whitt and wellness coach Annelies Gentile, who combine their expertise to foster joy and personal exploration. Depending on the season, attendees can also experience blueberry picking and interactions with farm animals on the grounds. This retreat is designed to be accessible for all abilities and is ideal for those seeking a supportive environment to refresh their perspectives. It offers a unique opportunity to connect with peers in a natural, peaceful setting. If you are looking to spark curiosity and enjoy a morning of meaningful activity, we invite you to join us for this restorative experience. Please come prepared for an outdoor farm setting and a morning of gentle, creative engagement.

Paint and Sip is a guided artistic workshop held at Front Porch Cafe where participants create their own summer beach themed painting. Local artist Taylor Varron leads the session to help attendees produce a personal art piece in a relaxed setting. The class includes comprehensive step by step instruction suitable for all experience levels. Your ticket covers all necessary materials including a canvas with a pre drawn outline, reference images, acrylic paints, brushes, palettes, easels, and aprons. The session focuses on providing a structured environment where you can follow professional guidance to complete your project with confidence. This event is perfect for anyone looking for a creative outlet, regardless of prior painting experience. The atmosphere is designed to be fun, casual, and stress free. Whether you are coming alone or with friends, you will enjoy a productive day of artistic expression. Spaces are limited for this unique community gathering, so reserve your spot today to join us for an afternoon of painting and relaxation.

Experience a unique intersection of local culture and creativity at the upcoming opening reception for Deere John at Peel Gallery in Carrboro. This exhibition serves as a heartfelt tribute to a local neighborhood muse, an iconic 1989 Monte Carlo adorned with John Deere insignias that has become a staple of the community. Organized by the talented artists from Super G Print Lab, the showcase features creative interpretations of this landmark through the medium of printmaking, highlighting the studio's commitment to artistic education and community engagement. The reception takes place on Friday, August 14, 2026, from 6 to 9 p.m. during the vibrant 2nd Friday Artwalk. Guests can enjoy an energetic atmosphere filled with live screen printing demonstrations and a special musical set by PhDJ Tom Page. This event is free to the public and offers a fantastic opportunity to support local artists while celebrating the unique character of our region. Join us for an inspiring evening of art and community. We look forward to seeing you at Peel Gallery for this one of a kind celebration.

Get ready to make a splash at the Shotwell Environmental Park Summer Splash Bash, happening on Saturday, August 15, 2026. This exciting community event runs from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and offers a perfect way to celebrate the final weeks of summer with your friends and neighbors. Located at 4624 Smithfield Road in Wendell, the park will be transformed into a vibrant playground featuring thrilling waterslides and a variety of engaging activities designed for all age groups. In addition to the water attractions, guests will be treated to a complimentary lunch, making this an ideal outing for families looking for a memorable and affordable weekend experience. The event is intentionally crafted to provide wholesome entertainment while helping children transition into the upcoming school season with high energy and joy. Whether you are looking for outdoor fun or a chance to connect with the local community, this bash promises something special for everyone. Please remember to RSVP online to secure your spot for this fantastic summer celebration. We look forward to seeing you there for a day of sunshine and fun.

Experience the vibrant energy of the Caribbean right in the heart of Raleigh at the annual CaribMask Caribbean Parade and Festival. This spectacular cultural celebration brings the community together for a full day of rhythmic music, elaborate costumes, and authentic island spirit. The festivities commence at 11 a.m. with a spectacular parade of bands starting at Salisbury and Davie Street, showcasing the rich diversity and artistic talents of the AfroCaribbean community. Following the parade, guests are invited to the Festival Village at City Plaza on Fayetteville Street to continue the revelry until 8 p.m. Attendees can look forward to live musical performances, traditional dance showcases, and an immersive environment that honors Caribbean heritage. This event is perfect for families, friends, and anyone looking to enjoy a lively atmosphere filled with joy and cultural appreciation. Best of all, admission to this grand celebration is completely free for all guests. Mark your calendars for Saturday, August 15, 2026, and join us for this unforgettable showcase of culture and unity. We encourage you to bring your loved ones and immerse yourselves in the sights and sounds of the Caribbean. We look forward to seeing you there.

Experience the ultimate fusion of nostalgia and live entertainment at Level Up Live, hosted at the vibrant Boxyard RTP in Durham. Join us on August 14 and 28, 2026, for an engaging evening where classic gaming culture meets orchestral excellence. The talented Turnabout Players will perform iconic video game soundtracks live, creating an electric atmosphere for guests of all generations to enjoy. In addition to the captivating music, attendees can immerse themselves in a curated selection of classic video games provided by the experts at NC Eclectic Esports. Whether you are a seasoned gamer looking to relive childhood favorites or a music enthusiast interested in the artistry of game composition, this event offers something special for everyone. It is the perfect opportunity to spend a summer evening outdoors in a community focused setting. Best of all, this event is completely free to attend. Gather your friends and family for an unforgettable night of music and interactive play. Visit Boxyard RTP to join the fun and celebrate the legacy of gaming in a lively, collaborative environment.

Triangle Cinemas invites families to escape the heat this summer with an exciting series of complimentary movie screenings. Located at 9500 Forum Drive in Raleigh, North Carolina, our theater is proud to host these special showings from June 16 through August 20, 2026. This cinematic experience is designed specifically for children, offering a fun and affordable way to enjoy top quality films Tuesday through Thursday, with select Friday dates available as well. Doors open daily at 9:30 a.m., and all feature presentations begin promptly at 10 a.m. While outside food and drink are not permitted inside the auditorium, our concessions stand remains open and fully stocked with all your favorite movie theater treats. This program is part of our commitment to supporting the local community by providing accessible entertainment options for kids throughout the summer season. We encourage you to visit our website to view our complete schedule and explore additional resources for other free or discounted youth activities in the Triangle area. Gather the family and join us at Triangle Cinemas for a memorable morning of fun and entertainment.

Step back in time at Historic Yates Mill County Park, a breathtaking 174-acre wildlife refuge and environmental research center located in Raleigh. As the home of the last operable water-powered gristmill in Wake County, this site offers a rare glimpse into our agricultural past. The mill has been beautifully restored, and you are invited to explore its fascinating history and mechanical inner workings during our guided history tours. These educational sessions are led by expert interpreters who bring the stories of this National Register of Historic Places landmark to life. Beyond the mill itself, visitors can enjoy picturesque walking trails, beautiful gardens, and scenic picnic areas that make this a perfect destination for families and history enthusiasts alike. Whether you are looking to learn about local milling traditions or simply want to enjoy a peaceful day in nature, our park provides a unique and engaging experience for everyone. We encourage you to visit our official website today to view the full schedule of upcoming guided tours and secure your spot for this enriching journey through local history. We look forward to seeing you at the mill.