Dance with Raleigh International Folk Dancers

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.

Prepare for an unforgettable experience at the first Glow-in-the-Dark Silent Disco in Apex. Taking place on August 28, 2026, at the Halle Cultural Arts Center, this vibrant event invites guests of all ages to dance under the neon lights. Whether you want to enjoy a night out with friends or family, this unique silent disco offers a fun atmosphere where you control your own musical experience through specialized wireless headphones. Participants can easily switch between multiple playlist channels to find the perfect soundtrack for their evening. Your ticket includes entry to the event along with light snacks and drinks to keep you energized. Please note that this environment features black lights and disco effects, which may be intense for some guests. We are committed to inclusivity and provide designated quiet areas for those who need a break from the sensory stimulation. Tickets are priced at 10 dollars for residents and 25 dollars for non-residents. Spaces are limited, so ensure you register early to secure your spot for this radiant celebration.

Experience the vibrant traditions of global cultures by joining the Raleigh International Folk Dancers. Established in 1968, this welcoming community invites individuals of all skill levels to celebrate international heritage through movement. Whether you are a seasoned dancer or a complete beginner, our weekly sessions provide a fantastic opportunity to stay active while meeting new people in a friendly, inclusive environment. You do not need to bring a partner to participate, and there is absolutely no experience required to get started. We meet every Friday evening at the Glen Eden Pilot Park in Raleigh. The early portion of the session focuses on teaching accessible, beginner-friendly dances, while later hours offer more intermediate and advanced choreography. Attendance is free of charge thanks to the support of Raleigh Parks and Recreation. If you prefer to observe before jumping in, you are welcome to simply watch and enjoy the music. For more information, please feel free to reach out to Brown Patton via email to learn more about how you can get involved in this unique local tradition today.

Experience the vibrant energy of Discover Dance at Downtown Cary Park, an ongoing series dedicated to celebrating movement and community. Every final Friday through August 2026, the Great Lawn Pavilion transforms into a hub of rhythmic exploration, offering free professional instruction in diverse styles. This initiative serves as a cornerstone of the Cary Art Loop, inviting participants to engage with local arts, imaginative crafts, and diverse culinary offerings from onsite food trucks. The upcoming Swing Session on August 28, 2026, promises an unforgettable evening as Joel and Jackie Plys from Retro Rhythm share their passion for the Swing Era. Attendees will receive expert guidance in 20s Charleston, 6-count Swing, Vernacular Jazz, and Lindy Charleston. Whether you are an experienced dancer or a curious beginner, this family-friendly event offers the perfect environment to learn new steps while enjoying the beautiful park setting. Bring your friends and family to Downtown Cary Park to cut a rug under the stars and celebrate the joy of dance. Join us for this rhythmic celebration and make the most of your summer evening.

Experience the vibrant spirit of the Triangle at the Durham Beer and Banjos music series. Held at the picturesque Old Mill Farm, this weekly gathering celebrates the rich traditions of roots, bluegrass, Americana, and folk music. Each session offers a unique opportunity to enjoy authentic performances from talented musicians in an inviting, rustic setting that perfectly complements the acoustic sounds. It is the ideal way to unwind during the work week while connecting with fellow music enthusiasts in the local community. The series typically takes place every Thursday evening from 6 to 8 p.m., though attendees should note occasional schedule adjustments, such as the special performance scheduled for Wednesday, August 19, 2026. Admission to these events is entirely free, making it an accessible outing for everyone. We encourage you to visit the official Durham Beer and Banjos Facebook page to verify the weekly band lineup and stay updated on any scheduling changes. Gather your friends and family for an evening of exceptional live music and southern charm at one of Durham's most welcoming venues.

Birdwatching for Beginners is an introductory outdoor program designed to teach you the fundamentals of identifying local bird species. The event focuses on providing practical skills for those new to birding in an approachable and supportive environment. Participants will engage in a guided walk covering approximately one mile of diverse terrain. We will observe various habitats to locate birds while practicing identification techniques. You will also learn about collaborative science projects and how to contribute your observational data to real research initiatives. This hands-on experience provides a meaningful way to engage with the natural environment while building your knowledge of local wildlife. This event is open to everyone ages eight and older. It offers a relaxed and steady pace suitable for all skill levels. If you are interested in learning a new hobby that connects you with nature and supports scientific research, this session is an excellent starting point. We invite you to join us for an informative outing. Please come prepared for a moderate walk outdoors. We look forward to exploring the local landscape with you and identifying the species that call it home.

Experience a world of wonder at the Museum of Life and Science in Durham. This expansive eighty-four acre campus offers a thrilling blend of indoor and outdoor exhibits designed to spark curiosity in visitors of all ages. Explore fascinating displays ranging from physics and weather to aerospace and zoology. Guests can visit the interactive Farmyard, observe majestic black bears and red wolves, or wander through the enchanting Butterfly House rainforest. The museum provides an engaging environment that encourages hands-on learning and active exploration. During Durham Community Days, residents of Durham County are invited to enjoy free admission as a gesture of appreciation for the local community. This is a fantastic opportunity to bring the whole family to discover new scientific concepts while enjoying a memorable day out. Whether you are climbing, digging, or exploring nature, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Please remember to bring valid proof of residency to qualify for free entry. Visit our website today to check the full schedule of upcoming Community Day dates and plan your next scientific adventure at one of the most popular attractions in the region.

Experience the vibrant traditions of global cultures by joining the Raleigh International Folk Dancers. Established in 1968, this welcoming community invites individuals of all skill levels to celebrate international heritage through movement. Whether you are a seasoned dancer or a complete beginner, our weekly sessions provide a fantastic opportunity to stay active while meeting new people in a friendly, inclusive environment. You do not need to bring a partner to participate, and there is absolutely no experience required to get started. We meet every Friday evening at the Glen Eden Pilot Park in Raleigh. The early portion of the session focuses on teaching accessible, beginner-friendly dances, while later hours offer more intermediate and advanced choreography. Attendance is free of charge thanks to the support of Raleigh Parks and Recreation. If you prefer to observe before jumping in, you are welcome to simply watch and enjoy the music. For more information, please feel free to reach out to Brown Patton via email to learn more about how you can get involved in this unique local tradition today.

Experience the authentic spirit of a traditional German Stammtisch at Der Nachbar Bottleshop and Taps in Durham. This welcoming community gathering invites beer enthusiasts to enjoy premium German brews served in classic steins, all available at standard pint pricing. Located at 4916 Hillsborough Road, our venue offers a relaxed atmosphere with twenty rotating taps, a curated selection of wines, and non-alcoholic choices to suit every palate. Our inviting space features a pet-friendly patio and an outdoor serving window for your convenience. Guests are encouraged to bring their own takeout or enjoy offerings from occasional food truck visits and local bakery partnerships. Whether you are a long-time member of the local German community or simply interested in meeting new neighbors over a refreshing beverage, this event provides the perfect backdrop for casual conversation and authentic connection. Join us for an evening of camaraderie and quality craft beer. We encourage you to drop by with friends or family to experience one of the best social nights in the Triangle. For more details on this event and our upcoming calendar, please visit our website or check our official Facebook page today.

Experience the vibrant traditions of global cultures at the Raleigh International Folk Dancers weekly gathering. Since 1968, this welcoming community has dedicated itself to promoting the art of international folk dance. Whether you are an experienced dancer or have never stepped onto a dance floor, you are invited to join this inclusive group every Friday evening from 6:30 to 10 p.m. at Glen Eden Pilot Park. The sessions are designed to be accessible for everyone, with the early portion of the night focusing on instruction and simpler movements. As the evening progresses, the repertoire expands to include more intermediate and advanced choreography. You do not need a partner to participate, and there is absolutely no experience required to get started. If you prefer to simply observe and enjoy the lively atmosphere, spectators are always welcome to watch the magic unfold. This event is offered completely free of charge, courtesy of Raleigh Park and Recreation. We encourage you to bring your energy and curiosity to these sessions. For any inquiries, please contact Brown Patton at [email protected] to learn more about becoming part of this long-standing tradition.