Durham Community Day at Museum of Life and Science

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.

Four hours for them. Four hours for YOU. Drop the kids off at Battle House Laser Tag for a night packed with laser tag, pizza, a movie, and more laser tag. Meanwhile, you can go to dinner, catch a movie, run errands, enjoy a quiet house, or simply remember what it feels like to finish a sentence without being interrupted. Details Ages: 7 to 13 Time: 5 PM to 9 PM Price: $49 per child What's Included -4 hours total -Approximately 3 hours of Battle House Laser Tag -Large slice of pizza and a drink -Movie time during dinner, then more laser tag time For Parents: Four glorious hours where parents do not have to entertain anyone Reserve tickets at: https://ecom.roller.app/battlehousefayetteville/parentsnightout/en-us/products

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.

Family Fest 2026 is an inclusive community event designed to provide families a dedicated space for connection, creativity, and outdoor recreation. The festival emphasizes slowing down to enjoy meaningful time together through a variety of engaging, low-pressure activities suitable for all ages. Attendees can participate in a diverse range of experiences including community yoga, creative arts workshops, and organized field games. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy lake activities and fishing opportunities throughout the day. Food options feature local food trucks and a communal cookout, followed by evening s'mores and entertainment. Overnight guests have the option to conclude the event with an outdoor movie screening under the stars. This event is perfect for families seeking a relaxed atmosphere to build community bonds and create lasting memories. It offers a unique blend of wellness and fun in an accessible outdoor setting. We are currently finalizing our lineup of performers and vendors, so please follow our official Facebook page for the latest announcements. Join us for a day dedicated to play, movement, and local connection as we bring the community together for this special experience.

Monster Truck Wars is a live motorsports exhibition featuring professional drivers and heavy duty vehicles competing in a high energy environment. This event serves as an accessible introduction to competitive truck racing and mechanical entertainment for all ages. Participants can watch national level trucks perform stunts and maneuvers designed to showcase power and precision. The schedule includes competitive heats and exhibition runs that keep the pace moving throughout the afternoon. A major highlight is the opportunity for attendees to ride in a real monster truck, providing a hands on perspective of the vehicle capabilities. These interactive moments allow fans to get closer to the machinery than typically possible at major stadium events. This event is built for families and automotive enthusiasts looking for an affordable weekend outing. The atmosphere is casual, welcoming, and loud, focusing on the spectacle of racing. Whether you are a long time fan of motorsports or searching for a unique group activity, this exhibition offers a clear look at professional truck operations. Secure your tickets early to ensure your family participates in this dynamic experience before seats sell out.

Thomas and his Friends are visiting the New Hope Valley Railway Garden Railroad this September. This special event brings the beloved characters to life through a detailed G-Scale display featuring iconic trains and figures. Families and train enthusiasts are invited to experience this unique exhibition on September 12 and 13. Visitors can view miniature versions of Thomas, Percy, James, Paxton, Emily, Winston, and Toby as they travel along the tracks. Sir Topham Hatt will be present to greet guests throughout the weekend. In addition to the garden display, attendees can enjoy rides on the full-size trains operating during scheduled times. The event will also feature appearances by miniature Minions. This experience is perfect for families seeking an interactive and memorable outing. The event schedule includes departures on September 12 at 10:30am, 12:00pm, and 1:30pm, and on September 13 at 10:30am and 12:00pm. Tickets sell out quickly every year due to high demand. Please visit www.TriangleTrain.com to secure your tickets in advance. We look forward to welcoming you to the railway for this exciting celebration.

Discover a treasure hunter paradise at The Raleigh Market, hosted every weekend at the North Carolina State Fairgrounds. Spanning hundreds of indoor and outdoor stalls, this vibrant marketplace offers an incredible variety of goods, ranging from high-end antiques and unique jewelry to practical power tools and local art. With over five decades of history, it remains a premier destination for shoppers seeking rare finds and bargain deals across the region. Admission and parking are completely free, making it an accessible weekend activity for everyone to enjoy. Beyond the diverse retail offerings, the experience is enhanced by a rotating selection of local food trucks and fresh farm stands. Whether you are hunting for vintage collectibles or just looking to enjoy a pleasant day exploring, there is always something new to uncover. We invite you to visit us this Saturday or Sunday between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. to experience one of the most beloved traditions in the Triangle area. Follow our social media pages for the latest vendor updates and plan your visit to this spectacular community event today.

The Sunday Reset Series is a weekly outdoor movement class hosted at The Exchange Park. This session invites the community to gather on the grassy lawn outside 1000 Social for a guided session focused on movement, mindfulness, and intentional preparation for the week ahead. Participants will follow a flow yoga session led by experienced instructors from Current Wellness. The curriculum is designed to help you build physical strength, improve flexibility, and clear your mind. This session is part of a larger six week series meant to foster consistent healthy habits in an outdoor setting. This event is designed for individuals of all fitness levels looking for an accessible way to start their Sunday with focus. The atmosphere is calm, welcoming, and community oriented. Whether you are a yoga regular or simply looking to enjoy the park, this class offers a structured environment to practice wellness. Please remember to bring your own yoga mat and a bottle of water to stay hydrated during the session. We look forward to seeing you on the lawn to reset and recharge.

Experience the magic of the New Hope Valley Railway during the highly anticipated annual Thomas and his Friends in the Garden event. Held on September 12 and 13, 2026, this delightful gathering transforms the historic railway museum into a vibrant celebration of miniature railroading. Guests can marvel at the intricate G scale garden layout featuring ten operating tracks and over one thousand feet of rail line. Fans of all ages will be thrilled to spot Thomas, Percy, James, and other beloved characters journeying through a beautifully landscaped scene while Sir Topham Hatt greets visitors. This event offers a fantastic opportunity for families to immerse themselves in a creative and nostalgic atmosphere. While admission to the garden display is entirely free, visitors can enhance their experience by purchasing tickets for a scenic excursion ride on a full sized train pulled by vintage diesel locomotives. Availability is limited, so we encourage you to book your train ride tickets online as soon as possible to ensure your spot. Join us in New Hill for a memorable weekend of rail adventure and family fun.

Thomas and his Friends are visiting the New Hope Valley Railway Garden Railroad this September. This special event brings the beloved characters to life through a detailed G-Scale display featuring iconic trains and figures. Families and train enthusiasts are invited to experience this unique exhibition on September 12 and 13. Visitors can view miniature versions of Thomas, Percy, James, Paxton, Emily, Winston, and Toby as they travel along the tracks. Sir Topham Hatt will be present to greet guests throughout the weekend. In addition to the garden display, attendees can enjoy rides on the full-size trains operating during scheduled times. The event will also feature appearances by miniature Minions. This experience is perfect for families seeking an interactive and memorable outing. The event schedule includes departures on September 12 at 10:30am, 12:00pm, and 1:30pm, and on September 13 at 10:30am and 12:00pm. Tickets sell out quickly every year due to high demand. Please visit www.TriangleTrain.com to secure your tickets in advance. We look forward to welcoming you to the railway for this exciting celebration.

Migrating Monarchs is an educational program exploring the annual southward journey of Monarch butterflies. Participants will learn how local habitats support these insects and contribute to their survival during migration. The event begins in the Nature Neighborhood Garden to examine managed habitats that fuel Monarchs. Attendees will then move into the prairie for guided butterfly spotting. Depending on activity, participants may participate in catch and release demonstrations. The session covers collaborative science initiatives including the Monarch Larvae Monitoring Project and Monarch Watch to explain how citizens track population trends. This family friendly program is designed for all ages interested in wildlife conservation and local ecology. The atmosphere is interactive and focuses on active observation in a natural setting. It offers a unique opportunity to engage with scientific research while observing migration patterns firsthand. Wear comfortable footwear suitable for walking in outdoor prairie terrain and prepare for time spent in the sun. We encourage families and nature enthusiasts to join us for this educational outdoor experience. Please register in advance to secure your spot for this seasonal event.

Stitched in Tradition is a public showcase at the North Carolina Museum of Art dedicated to exploring Indigenous fashion, art, and identity. This event brings together designers from across the state to demonstrate how cultural knowledge and modern design intersect through the power of clothing and storytelling. Attendees will experience a series of runway presentations featuring both traditional regalia and contemporary collections. The showcase highlights the role of fashion as a living tradition, offering a platform for local designers to share their personal expressions and creative heritage. The event serves as a medium for celebrating Indigenous visibility and the ongoing evolution of cultural identity within the fashion industry. This event is designed for anyone interested in cultural arts, textile design, or local history. The atmosphere is professional and engaging, making it an excellent opportunity for community members to learn about diverse traditions and support contemporary Indigenous artists. We invite you to join us for an evening of inspiration and craftsmanship. Please check the museum website for specific schedule details and ticket availability to ensure you can participate in this unique cultural experience.