Cary Night Market

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 vibrant spirit of Chapel Hill at the iconic Carolina Inn for their beloved annual event series, Fridays on the Front Porch. Located on the picturesque University of North Carolina campus, this outdoor concert series offers the perfect way to unwind and enjoy the warm weather season. Guests are invited to pull up a chair, relax, and soak in the live music performances that showcase the talent of regional musicians in a beautiful, historic setting. Whether you are looking for a casual evening with friends or a lively outing with family, this series provides a welcoming atmosphere for all visitors. Beyond the melodies, the event features a variety of local food trucks offering delicious culinary options, making it a complete evening of entertainment and dining. Admission is entirely free, ensuring that everyone can participate in this seasonal tradition. Please note that the series runs from May through October, with brief scheduled breaks throughout the summer. We encourage you to visit the Carolina Inn website to view the full performance schedule and plan your next visit. Join us this season for unforgettable music and community connection on the front porch.

Experience the vibrant spirit of our community during the First Friday celebration in historic Downtown Fuquay-Varina. Hosted by the Fuquay-Varina Downtown Association, this recurring monthly event transforms the heart of our town into a lively hub of creativity and connection from 5 to 9 p.m. Attendees are invited to stroll through the charming streets while enjoying a curated selection of live music performances that highlight local talent and artistic expression. It is the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the flourishing local arts scene while discovering unique offerings from our neighborhood merchants. Beyond the captivating entertainment, visitors can take advantage of exclusive shopping deals and special promotional events hosted by participating local businesses. This gathering is designed to bring neighbors and visitors together for an evening of relaxation, exploration, and support for our local economy. Whether you are searching for a hidden treasure, looking to enjoy some great tunes with friends, or simply wanting to soak in the welcoming atmosphere, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Mark your calendar and join us this Friday for an unforgettable evening in downtown.

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.

Celebrate Labor Day weekend at the Carrboro Farmers Market during the upcoming Carrboro Cookout event. This vibrant gathering highlights the exceptional quality of locally raised meats from North Carolina farmers. Attendees will have the unique opportunity to sample a diverse range of products, including chicken, duck, pork, beef, lamb, and bison, while discovering classic cookout dishes that will inspire your own holiday gatherings. Our farmers take pride in providing high-quality, locally sourced protein, and guests will be able to take home a comprehensive directory of our meat vendors to support local agriculture throughout the year. Whether you are planning a festive backyard barbecue or simply looking to learn more about the food sources in your community, this event provides the perfect backdrop for a delicious morning. Join us on Saturday, September 5, 2026, from 7 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Carrboro Town Commons for a celebration of local food and community spirit. Admission is free, and all members of the public are welcome to attend. We look forward to seeing you there for a memorable culinary experience.

Experience the ultimate weekend treasure hunt at The Raleigh Market, located at the North Carolina State Fairgrounds. Every Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., this iconic destination transforms into a vibrant hub of activity, drawing visitors from across the region for over fifty years. With hundreds of indoor and outdoor vendors, you will discover a vast array of unique items, ranging from high-end antiques and handcrafted jewelry to essential power tools and fine art. There is truly something for every shopper, regardless of your personal interests or budget. Beyond the exceptional shopping experience, guests are invited to indulge in a diverse culinary adventure. The market features a rotating selection of local food trucks, classic fair favorites, and fresh farm stands, ensuring you stay energized while you explore the grounds. Best of all, admission and parking are completely free, making it the perfect family-friendly outing. We encourage you to visit our website for a complete list of current vendors and follow us on social media for real-time updates. Come join us this weekend and uncover your next great find at The Raleigh Market.

Experience the charm of local agriculture at the Saturday Slowdown Market and Open Farm Day hosted by RambleRill Farm in Hillsborough. Held on the first Saturday of each month from May through December, this vibrant gathering brings together a collective of regional farms and talented local artisans. It is a fantastic opportunity for visitors to explore the grounds, meet friendly farm animals, and support the local economy by purchasing fresh products directly from the source. Each monthly event features a rotating selection of vendors and unique activities, ensuring there is always something new to discover. Whether you are looking for fresh produce, handcrafted goods, or simply a peaceful day outdoors with family and friends, this event offers a welcoming community atmosphere. Please check the official RambleRill Farm Facebook page for specific updates regarding each month’s programming and special offerings. We invite you to join us at 913 Arthur Minnis Road from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. to enjoy the rustic beauty of our farm and connect with your local food producers.

The Cozy Cryptid Fall Market is a curated shopping event held in October that focuses on mythical creatures and autumn themes. This market serves as a community gathering for fans of folklore and local artistry to celebrate the Halloween season. Attendees can browse collections from thirty local artists and makers. The vendors will feature unique, cryptid-themed creations and seasonal Halloween art. The event provides an opportunity to purchase handcrafted goods directly from creators while enjoying a focused, thematic shopping experience. The layout is designed to facilitate easy navigation for all guests visiting the market stalls. This event is ideal for anyone interested in supporting local small businesses and discovering niche artistic interpretations of mythical beings. The atmosphere is intended to be welcoming and festive, providing a relaxed environment to browse and shop. Whether you are an enthusiast of urban legends or simply looking for seasonal home goods, this market offers a distinct collection of items you will not find elsewhere. Please mark your calendar and join us to support our creative community and celebrate the spirit of the fall season.

Experience the vibrant spirit of our community during the First Friday celebration in historic Downtown Fuquay-Varina. Hosted by the Fuquay-Varina Downtown Association, this recurring monthly event transforms the heart of our town into a lively hub of creativity and connection from 5 to 9 p.m. Attendees are invited to stroll through the charming streets while enjoying a curated selection of live music performances that highlight local talent and artistic expression. It is the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the flourishing local arts scene while discovering unique offerings from our neighborhood merchants. Beyond the captivating entertainment, visitors can take advantage of exclusive shopping deals and special promotional events hosted by participating local businesses. This gathering is designed to bring neighbors and visitors together for an evening of relaxation, exploration, and support for our local economy. Whether you are searching for a hidden treasure, looking to enjoy some great tunes with friends, or simply wanting to soak in the welcoming atmosphere, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Mark your calendar and join us this Friday for an unforgettable evening in downtown.

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.