Celebrating Godfrey Cheshire

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.

Paula Poundstone brings her celebrated stand up comedy performance to The Rialto for an evening of live entertainment. This event features a complete comedy set centered on the sharp observations and quick improvisation skills that have defined her long career in the industry. Attendees can expect an evening of witty commentary and spontaneous humor from a veteran performer. Paula is widely recognized for her frequent contributions to the NPR program Wait Wait Don t Tell Me and her voice acting work as Forgetter Paula in the hit films Inside Out and Inside Out 2. Her show moves at a rapid pace and showcases her unique ability to engage directly with the audience in real time. This show is designed for fans of classic stand up and anyone seeking a high energy night out at the theater. The atmosphere is casual and centered on observational humor. Tickets are currently available for purchase online. Early booking is encouraged to ensure your seat as these performances typically reach capacity quickly. Visit the venue box office or official website to secure your entry for this upcoming performance.

Arthur Elrod: Desert Cool is a cinematic exploration of the life and work of Palm Springs most iconic interior designer. This documentary chronicles how Elrod transformed mid-century desert modernism into a global aesthetic phenomenon by blending architectural precision with theatrical flair. The film focuses on his legendary collaboration with architect John Lautner and the creation of the home famously featured in the James Bond film Diamonds Are Forever. Attendees will view archival footage and expert commentary that highlights Elrods unique approach to luxury, scale, and color. The presentation delves into the specific design elements that defined his signature style, showing how he brought high-fashion sensibilities into residential spaces. Viewers will gain a deeper understanding of how these bold interiors captured the imagination of the Hollywood elite and continue to influence contemporary design trends today. This screening is intended for architecture enthusiasts, design professionals, and fans of mid-century cultural history. The atmosphere is professional yet engaging, providing a sophisticated look at the legacy of a true industry pioneer. Join us for this essential screening to discover the history behind some of the most covetable spaces ever created. Tickets are available now for all interested participants.

Scythian is a high energy musical performance blending Celtic, Eastern European, and Appalachian folk traditions into a modern rock concert experience. This event features the versatile quartet of Alexander Fedoryka, Danylo Fedoryka, Ethan Dean, and Johnny Rees as they perform a fusion of roots music rooted in various cultural backgrounds. Attendees can expect a technically brilliant live show characterized by rapid fiddling, accordion melodies, and a driving Cajun-inspired percussion backbeat. The performance highlights the group's diverse influences, ranging from Ukrainian folk and bluegrass to classic folk-rock. Known for their contagious enthusiasm, the band delivers a show that emphasizes musical precision alongside a vibrant, storytelling atmosphere. This experience showcases the group's expansive repertoire developed through years of touring and recent prolific studio output. This concert is designed for music lovers who enjoy energetic, live folk-fusion and dance-oriented performances. The atmosphere is interactive, informal, and centered on community engagement. If you are looking for a unique performance that combines traditional music with the intensity of a rock show, join us for an evening of live music that encourages audience participation and collective celebration.

Join the Town of Chapel Hill and the Food Bank of Central and Eastern North Carolina for our recurring community food distribution events. Held twice monthly, these supplemental gatherings are designed to provide essential support to all neighbors in need. We invite you to visit the Eubanks Park-and-Ride Lot on the second and fourth Wednesday of each month at 9:30 a.m. Please remember to bring along one or two boxes or bags to help transport your items efficiently. Our mission is to foster a supportive environment for everyone in the community. Whether you are seeking assistance or looking to give back, your presence is valued. We are always seeking enthusiastic volunteers to help facilitate these distributions, so please sign up if you have time to contribute. For those requiring more immediate or ongoing food assistance, we encourage you to visit the official Food Bank website to locate an agency near your specific zip code. We look forward to seeing you at our next event as we continue working together to strengthen our local community support networks.

Creek Critter Discovery is an interactive educational program focused on exploring local stream health through the study of aquatic macroinvertebrates. Participants will work alongside experts from the Haw River Assembly to identify the tiny organisms that act as biological indicators for water quality. This event serves as a practical introduction to the science behind monitoring and protecting our local aquatic ecosystems. Attendees will gain hands-on experience collecting samples and learning how to interpret the presence of specific wildlife species. The session highlights the role of macroinvertebrates in assessing environmental integrity and provides deep insight into current regional water conservation initiatives. You will learn to use identification tools and observe the delicate balance of life residing within our local waterways. This program is perfect for students, outdoor enthusiasts, and concerned citizens interested in environmental science. The atmosphere is collaborative, informative, and suited for anyone curious about the natural world in their backyard. We invite you to join us to deepen your understanding of local water health. Register today to secure your place in this essential environmental exploration session.

Mahjong and Mingle is a recurring social event designed for players of all skill levels to enjoy the game of American Mahjong. Hosted by Elizabeth, this evening provides a dedicated space for both newcomers and experienced players to connect over tiles, strategy, and conversation. The event offers two distinct sessions to accommodate different levels of expertise. Beginners can participate in a structured lesson that covers the fundamentals of the game, including equipment and rules, for a fee of 40 dollars. Elizabeth supplies all necessary materials for those just starting out. Open play is available for 20 dollars for those who already know the basics and want to join a table. Please bring your own 2026 NMJL card to participate in the open play session. This gathering is ideal for anyone looking to learn a classic game or practice their skills in a welcoming, organized setting. The atmosphere is social and inclusive, making it a great way to meet others in the community while sharpening your Mahjong abilities. Reserve your spot today to ensure your seat at the table.

Horsegirls is a poignant feature film screening that explores themes of independence and self-discovery through the unique lens of hobby-horsing. The story follows 22-year-old Margarita, an autistic woman navigating her mother’s illness while pursuing a deeply personal passion. This event offers a compelling look at how personal hobbies can empower individuals and bridge emotional gaps during difficult life transitions. Attendees can expect an intimate and thoughtful cinematic experience that balances emotional depth with the whimsical nature of hobby-horsing. The film highlights the determination of the protagonist as she balances family expectations with her own autonomy. Viewers will gain insights into the sensory world of the main character and the unconventional sport that becomes her outlet for creative expression and personal agency. This screening is intended for film enthusiasts, advocates for neurodiversity, and anyone interested in stories about family dynamics and resilience. The atmosphere is designed to be welcoming, reflective, and thought-provoking for all audience members. Join us for this powerful narrative that celebrates the strength found in unexpected places. Please secure your tickets in advance to ensure your seat for this unique cinematic event.

This event is a documentary screening and exploration of the life and legacy of Pulitzer Prize winning poet Mary Oliver. It examines her journey from a secluded childhood to becoming an iconic literary voice who found spiritual depth within the natural world of Cape Cod. Attendees will view rare personal archival materials including private notebooks and never before seen correspondence. The production features intimate interviews with close friends like John Waters. Audiences can expect compelling recitations of Oliver’s most celebrated poems performed by voices such as Stephen Colbert, Lucy Dacus, Steve Buscemi, and Oprah Winfrey. These segments highlight her unique capacity to address modern anxieties regarding digital distraction and climate change through the lens of nature. This screening is intended for literature enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone seeking clarity in an increasingly fragmented world. It offers a calm, reflective atmosphere perfect for those looking to reconnect with the art of paying attention. Join us for this cinematic tribute to understand why Mary Oliver remains one of America’s most profound and necessary contemporary mystics. Secure your tickets now to experience this unique celebration of her life and enduring work.

Experience the magic of cinema under the stars as the North Carolina Museum of Art brings its acclaimed outdoor movie series to the heart of downtown Raleigh. This spring and summer of 2026, Moore Square transforms into an open-air theater where film lovers can gather for a special screening of the classic monster battle Godzilla vs. Mothra. This community-focused event is completely free and designed to offer a unique entertainment experience for residents and visitors alike. Festivities begin at 6 p.m. with an exciting selection of food trucks and engaging themed activities that celebrate the spirit of the film. Once the sun dips below the skyline, the featured presentation kicks off at 7:15 p.m. Gather your friends and family for an evening of relaxation and community connection in one of the city most vibrant public spaces. Whether you are a dedicated kaiju fan or simply looking for an enjoyable night out, this event provides the perfect atmosphere to celebrate culture and cinema together. We encourage you to join us in Moore Square for this memorable seasonal series.