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.

Experience the joy of movement at the weekly Ballroom Dancing Social hosted by Pullen Dance. Held most Wednesday evenings at the Pullen Park Community Center, this inviting event offers a vibrant space for dancers of all skill levels to practice their craft. Whether you are a beginner looking to find your rhythm or a seasoned pro ready to glide across the floor, you will find a welcoming atmosphere filled with fellow enthusiasts. Participants can enjoy a wide array of dance styles including salsa, cha-cha, rumba, swing, foxtrot, and waltz set to high-quality recorded music. The evening is designed to be affordable and inclusive, creating a perfect community environment for social connection. Attendees are encouraged to bring light snacks to share as they enjoy an active night of music and dance. Do not miss this opportunity to stay active and socialize in the heart of Raleigh. For the latest schedule updates or to learn more about upcoming special programs featuring live music, please visit the official Pullen Dance website. Grab your dancing shoes and join us for an unforgettable evening.

Experience the joy of global cultures through movement with the Raleigh International Folk Dancers. Established in 1968, this vibrant community invites you to explore traditional dances from around the world every Friday evening at Glen Eden Pilot Park. Whether you are a seasoned dancer or a complete beginner, this inclusive environment welcomes everyone to join in the fun. You do not need a partner or prior experience to participate, as the group dedicates the early portion of each session to teaching easier steps before progressing to intermediate and advanced routines later in the evening. This weekly gathering is completely free of charge, generously supported by Raleigh Park and Recreation. It is a fantastic way to stay active, meet new friends, and learn something new in an encouraging setting. If you prefer to simply observe the artistry and energy of the group, you are more than welcome to stop by and watch. For more information or to reach the organizers, please contact Brown Patton via email. We look forward to seeing you on the dance floor soon.

NC State LIVE invites you to a screening of the documentary We Lift Each Other. This film chronicles an original dance production created by Black Box Dance Theatre alongside a group of veterans. The project explores themes of trust, healing, and human connection through collaborative artistic expression. The event features more than just a film screening. Attendees will participate in a post-film discussion with the artists involved in the project. Guests will receive free commemorative t-shirts and are invited to stay for a celebratory dance party. This evening also serves as the official launch for a season-long residency that will include various community workshops and public programming throughout the year. This event is designed for students, faculty, veterans, and community members interested in the intersection of arts and social impact. The atmosphere is intended to be welcoming, energetic, and thought-provoking for all participants. Whether you are passionate about dance or interested in the transformative power of storytelling, this program offers a unique opportunity to engage with the creators. Please join us for this inspiring kickoff event to learn more about upcoming opportunities to participate in future workshops.

Triangle Cinemas, located at 9500 Forum Drive in Raleigh, North Carolina, invites local families to enjoy a series of complimentary movie screenings throughout the summer months. From June 16 through August 20, 2026, the theater will present popular children films every Tuesday through Thursday, with additional screenings on select Fridays. These events are designed to offer an affordable and entertaining way for families to stay cool and engaged during the summer break. Doors open promptly at 9:30 a.m., with the featured movies beginning at 10 a.m. While outside food and beverages are not permitted inside the theater, a full range of concessions will be available for purchase to enhance your viewing experience. This initiative provides a fantastic opportunity for children to enjoy big screen entertainment in a welcoming environment. We encourage all families in the Triangle area to join us for these exciting morning features. Whether you are looking for a fun outing or a way to keep the kids entertained, our summer movie program is the perfect destination. Plan your visit today and be sure to check our full schedule for additional free and affordable programming.

Prepare for the upcoming academic year by attending the Durham Rescue Mission Back to School Party on Wednesday, August 19, 2026. This community gathering is dedicated to supporting local students and families by providing essential resources to ensure a successful start to the school year. Guests will have the opportunity to receive free school supplies, groceries, and a complimentary lunch while supplies last. Doors open at 11 a.m. with the main event beginning at 12 p.m. at the Durham Rescue Mission location on East Main Street. This event is a fantastic way to engage with the community and alleviate the financial burden associated with back to school preparations. Whether you are seeking necessary materials or simply want to participate in a supportive environment, this party offers a welcoming atmosphere for everyone. Make sure to arrive early to take advantage of the available resources. Join your neighbors for this impactful day of giving and community spirit. Visit the official Durham Rescue Mission website for more information on how you can support their ongoing efforts throughout the year.

Join the Carrboro Farmers Market for an engaging season of family fun through our Market Bunch program and various community celebrations. Held at the historic Carrboro Town Commons, our market connects residents with local farmers and artisans who produce high-quality goods within a fifty-mile radius. Every Wednesday from April through November, the Market Bunch program provides free educational activities for children, focusing on sustainability, healthy eating, and creative arts. These interactive sessions encourage young learners to explore the origins of their food in a supportive, community-driven environment. Beyond our weekly programming, we host monthly seasonal events ranging from the vibrant Kids Seedling Day to the popular Strawberry Jamboree and the festive Tomato Day. Whether you are interested in gardening tips, live music, or delicious local food samples, there is something for everyone to enjoy. We invite you to experience the best of local agriculture while participating in unique cultural events designed for all ages. Please visit our website or follow our Facebook page for updated event calendars and detailed schedules. We look forward to seeing your family at the market this season.

Experience the vibrant spirit of German culture at the upcoming Stammtisch event hosted by Der Nachbar Bottleshop and Taps in Durham. This recurring community night is the perfect opportunity to connect with fellow enthusiasts while enjoying refreshing steins of authentic German beer available at special pint pricing. Whether you are a local regular or a new visitor, you will appreciate the welcoming atmosphere of this neighborhood spot located on Hillsborough Road. Der Nachbar features twenty rotating taps, a curated selection of wines, and non-alcoholic options, ensuring every guest finds their perfect drink. The venue offers a dog-friendly patio and an outdoor serving window for your convenience. While you are welcome to bring in your own food or enjoy treats from featured local vendors, the friendly environment makes it an ideal setting for socialization and relaxation. Bring your friends and enjoy an evening filled with great conversation and exceptional brews. We encourage you to visit our location this week to participate in this engaging community tradition and discover why our patrons love our diverse event calendar.

Experience the joy of global cultures through movement with the Raleigh International Folk Dancers. Established in 1968, this vibrant community invites you to explore traditional dances from around the world every Friday evening at Glen Eden Pilot Park. Whether you are a seasoned dancer or a complete beginner, this inclusive environment welcomes everyone to join in the fun. You do not need a partner or prior experience to participate, as the group dedicates the early portion of each session to teaching easier steps before progressing to intermediate and advanced routines later in the evening. This weekly gathering is completely free of charge, generously supported by Raleigh Park and Recreation. It is a fantastic way to stay active, meet new friends, and learn something new in an encouraging setting. If you prefer to simply observe the artistry and energy of the group, you are more than welcome to stop by and watch. For more information or to reach the organizers, please contact Brown Patton via email. We look forward to seeing you on the dance floor soon.

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.