Central Carolina Out of the Darkness Walk

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.

Make your summer afternoons delightful with an irresistible offer from Andia’s Ice Cream. Throughout the summer of 2026, Andia’s is brightening up your Mondays by providing a buy one get one free special on their signature sundaes. This offer runs until August 31 and is the perfect excuse to treat yourself and a friend to a sweet reward. Each sundae features a generous scoop of premium ice cream, topped with fresh whipped cream, a choice of topping, and a decadent sauce. Andia’s Ice Cream has earned national acclaim for its exceptional quality and creative flavors, making it a must-visit destination for dessert lovers in the Triangle area. Whether you are a long-time fan or a first-time visitor, this deal offers the perfect opportunity to experience why they are consistently celebrated as the best in the region. Head over to any participating Cary or Raleigh location to enjoy this delicious promotion while it lasts. Gather your friends or family today and indulge in a premium frozen treat that is guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Join us for an exciting series of Pop-Up Play Dates held at the scenic Market Square at Sweetwater Town Center in Apex, North Carolina. These vibrant morning gatherings are designed specifically for children and families to enjoy the beautiful summer weather together. Every Tuesday throughout August 2026, we transform the lawn into a hub of activity featuring a variety of engaging outdoor games and fun movement exercises that encourage active play and socialization in a safe environment. These sessions are entirely free to attend, making them the perfect opportunity for local families to connect and start their mornings with energy and joy. Whether you are looking for a way to keep the kids entertained or seeking a fun community experience, our play dates offer the ideal setting for making new friends. We encourage all interested parents and guardians to monitor our Facebook page for the latest updates and any schedule adjustments. Come visit us at 2701 Lawnview Lane between 9 and 10:30 a.m. to experience the fun firsthand. We look forward to seeing you and your little ones on the lawn this August.

North Hills Kids is back for the summer of 2026, bringing high-energy excitement to families in the Raleigh area. This popular seasonal series is specifically designed for preschool-aged children to enjoy engaging and themed activities in a vibrant outdoor setting. Join us at Midtown Park on the third Tuesday of each month from June through August, between 9:30 and 11 a.m., for a morning of organized fun and play. These events offer a wonderful opportunity for your little ones to explore new themes and interact with peers in a safe environment. Please be aware that some sessions have limited supplies available, so we recommend arriving promptly as participation is based on a first come, first served basis. These events are completely free to the public, making them an excellent way to keep your children active and entertained during the summer months. Whether you are a local resident or visiting the area, North Hills Kids provides the perfect atmosphere for family bonding. We invite you to visit our website at visitnorthills.com/events to see the full schedule and learn more about our upcoming programs. Bring your preschooler to North Hills and create lasting summer memories with us.

Experience the spirit of community generosity at the Chapel Hill Really Really Free Market. Hosted on the third Monday of each month at the beautiful Southern Village Green, this unique gathering invites residents to participate in a circular economy where everything is offered with no strings attached. Whether you are looking to declutter your home or find new treasures, this event fosters a welcoming environment built on kindness rather than commerce. Participants are encouraged to bring gently used items such as books, clothing, toys, or even share personal skills and musical talents with neighbors. Please remember that this is a community-supported initiative, so guests must take home any items that remain unclaimed by the end of the event. This gathering is the perfect opportunity to meet local residents while supporting sustainable living practices in our region. Stay connected and informed by following the official chapelhillrrfm account on Instagram for the latest event updates and announcements. We look forward to seeing you at the green for a morning of sharing, connecting, and celebrating our vibrant Chapel Hill community.

Step back in time to celebrate a historic milestone as we commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Bicentennial Folklife Festival. Fifty years ago, the Durham community gathered at West Point on the Eno to honor American heritage with a vibrant showcase of North Carolina traditions, arts, and music. The Museum of Durham History is proud to host a special pop-up exhibit that brings this cherished moment back to life through original photographs, personal memories, and nostalgic melodies. We invite you to join us for an informal reception during Third Friday on July 17, 2026, from 6 to 8 p.m. at our downtown location. This free event offers a wonderful opportunity to explore historic images, listen to captivating stories from those who experienced the original 1976 celebration, and connect with the rich cultural legacy of Durham. Whether you were there five decades ago or are discovering this unique piece of history for the first time, your presence will make the evening even more meaningful. We look forward to seeing you there as we honor our shared past and celebrate the spirit of our community.

Unwind and connect with your local community at our weekly Board Game Night held every Monday at Bottle Theory in Apex. This recurring event invites enthusiasts of all levels to gather in a relaxed, welcoming environment to enjoy an evening filled with strategic fun, friendly competition, and excellent conversation. Whether you are a seasoned tabletop gamer or simply looking for a casual way to start your week, our event provides the perfect backdrop to meet new people and share your favorite games. In addition to the gaming experience, guests are invited to explore our impressive selection of local brews and refreshing drinks, making it the ideal setting for social interaction. We pride ourselves on cultivating a vibrant neighborhood atmosphere where everyone feels included. There is no cost to attend, so bring your competitive spirit and your friends for a memorable night out. Join us this Monday from 6 to 9 p.m. to see why our community continues to grow. We look forward to seeing you at the table for an evening of entertainment.

Sips for Snips is a charity fundraising event hosted by SAFE Haven for Cats at the Salty Turtle Beer Company in Raleigh. This event raises essential funds to support low cost spay and neuter surgeries performed at the SAFE Care Clinic to help control the local cat population. Attendees can enjoy a wide selection of craft brews while supporting a meaningful cause. Each beer purchase directly contributes to surgical costs, helping the clinic provide affordable medical care for cats across the Triangle region. This is an opportunity to learn more about the clinic mission and how your participation makes a tangible difference in animal welfare. This gathering is designed for craft beer enthusiasts, animal lovers, and community members who want to support local veterinary initiatives. The atmosphere is relaxed, welcoming, and perfect for socializing with like minded people. We invite you to drop by the Salty Turtle Beer Company to enjoy a drink and help us prevent unwanted litters. Your attendance helps keep our community cats healthy and ensures that vital low cost services remain accessible to those who need them most.

The Winner Takes It All is an ABBA-inspired gala dedicated to supporting Theatre Raleigh. This event raises funds for high-quality theatre productions and professional development programs for aspiring artists. Attendees will enjoy a sophisticated evening featuring live music, a cocktail reception, and a formal multi-course dinner. The program includes live and silent auctions along with performances from Theatre Raleigh professionals and students. Guests can expect a vibrant celebration centered on the iconic music of ABBA while contributing to a vital local arts institution. This gala is designed for theatre enthusiasts, community supporters, and music lovers who appreciate live performance. The atmosphere is energetic and celebratory, offering a unique opportunity to connect with fellow arts patrons. We invite you to join us for an evening of entertainment and philanthropy. Tickets are available for purchase now, and we encourage early registration to secure your spot at this signature event. Your participation directly enables our mission to cultivate future talent and deliver exceptional theatrical experiences to our community.

The Back to School Brunch in Raleigh is a community event designed to celebrate the start of the academic year through food, creativity, and local outreach. Families are invited to enjoy brunch favorites and family friendly entertainment throughout the day. Attendees can participate in a variety of activities including a craft station where children can create customizable pencil cases. The event also features three dollar kids party drinks and a balloon photo station for capturing memories. Guests are encouraged to support local education by donating to the school supply and backpack drive, which benefits the WakeEd Partnership. Additionally, every Hammock location will select one local teacher to receive a three hundred dollar donation toward their Amazon classroom wish list. This event is perfect for families looking to enjoy a meal while engaging with their local school community. The atmosphere is casual, welcoming, and focused on preparing for the upcoming semester. We invite you to join us for a productive morning that supports both local students and educators. Visit your local Hammock restaurant to participate in this seasonal celebration.

Pot-A-Plant is an interactive workshop hosted at the Chapel designed to help participants improve their plant care skills. This hands-on session provides all necessary materials for attendees to successfully pot their own four-inch Pothos plant while personalizing a terracotta planter. Expert gardener Megan Cain leads the session, offering professional guidance and answering specific questions about plant maintenance. With over twelve years of experience featured on platforms like HGTV and Good Morning America, she simplifies complex gardening techniques into manageable steps. Participants receive all required tools and supplies, ensuring a comprehensive learning experience focused on long-term plant health and troubleshooting common issues. This event is perfect for both novice plant owners and experienced enthusiasts looking to refine their skills. The relaxed, inclusive atmosphere encourages open discussion, making it an excellent opportunity to learn in a supportive environment. Whether you are coming alone or bringing friends, you will leave with a healthy plant and the confidence to keep it thriving. Secure your spot today to develop the green thumb you have always wanted.

Pot-A-Plant is an interactive workshop hosted at the Chapel designed to help participants improve their plant care skills. This hands-on session provides all necessary materials for attendees to successfully pot their own four-inch Pothos plant while personalizing a terracotta planter. Expert gardener Megan Cain leads the session, offering professional guidance and answering specific questions about plant maintenance. With over twelve years of experience featured on platforms like HGTV and Good Morning America, she simplifies complex gardening techniques into manageable steps. Participants receive all required tools and supplies, ensuring a comprehensive learning experience focused on long-term plant health and troubleshooting common issues. This event is perfect for both novice plant owners and experienced enthusiasts looking to refine their skills. The relaxed, inclusive atmosphere encourages open discussion, making it an excellent opportunity to learn in a supportive environment. Whether you are coming alone or bringing friends, you will leave with a healthy plant and the confidence to keep it thriving. Secure your spot today to develop the green thumb you have always wanted.

Join us for an exciting series of Pop-Up Play Dates held at the scenic Market Square at Sweetwater Town Center in Apex, North Carolina. These vibrant morning gatherings are designed specifically for children and families to enjoy the beautiful summer weather together. Every Tuesday throughout August 2026, we transform the lawn into a hub of activity featuring a variety of engaging outdoor games and fun movement exercises that encourage active play and socialization in a safe environment. These sessions are entirely free to attend, making them the perfect opportunity for local families to connect and start their mornings with energy and joy. Whether you are looking for a way to keep the kids entertained or seeking a fun community experience, our play dates offer the ideal setting for making new friends. We encourage all interested parents and guardians to monitor our Facebook page for the latest updates and any schedule adjustments. Come visit us at 2701 Lawnview Lane between 9 and 10:30 a.m. to experience the fun firsthand. We look forward to seeing you and your little ones on the lawn this August.