Durham Community Day at Museum of Life + Science

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.

This educational outdoor workshop provides a comprehensive overview of modern irrigation and rainwater harvesting systems for your property. Our goal is to equip participants with the technical knowledge necessary to implement efficient water management practices for gardening and agriculture. Attendees will explore equipment and installation procedures for cisterns, drip tape, soaker hoses, and rain barrels. The curriculum covers specialized topics including solar pump technology, winterization steps, and effective fertigation methods. You will also view real-world examples of green stormwater infrastructure to see these systems in practice. The program includes a dedicated question and answer segment to address specific technical challenges and water conservation techniques applicable to your unique landscape. This event is designed for gardeners, homeowners, and agricultural enthusiasts interested in sustainable water use. The atmosphere is professional and hands-on, offering a direct look at functional equipment. We provide the practical skills needed to optimize your outdoor space through conservation. Please stay tuned for upcoming registration information to secure your spot at this informative session.

Discover a wonderful opportunity for early childhood development and community connection at Total Tot Time. Hosted by Durham Parks and Recreation at the W.D. Hill Recreation Center, this vibrant program invites children ages zero to five along with their parents and caregivers for two hours of active play. Running every Monday and Wednesday morning through December 16, 2026, this initiative provides a dedicated gym space where little ones can explore, learn, and grow through movement. Our program focuses on fostering essential socialization skills, allowing children to interact with their peers in a safe and supportive environment. Whether your child enjoys playing with a parachute, navigating through colorful tunnels, jumping rope, or engaging in a friendly game of bowling, there is something to spark every imagination. This inclusive environment encourages parents to bond with their children while connecting with other local families. No prior registration is necessary, so feel free to drop in and join the fun whenever your schedule allows. We look forward to seeing you and your little ones in the gym for an energetic morning of play.

Artful Story Time is an interactive program that combines children literature with visual art appreciation. This recurring event invites families to explore the museum collection through active storytelling, listening, and movement, providing a unique educational experience for young visitors and their caregivers. This month features a construction theme. Participants will examine the new Please Be Seated sculpture in the park and observe the onsite construction activities. The session includes a special guest appearance by a construction team member who will explain how various tools, trucks, and heavy machinery work. Attendees will gain a behind the scenes look at the museum grounds while engaging with themes of building and design. This event is designed for children who enjoy active learning and hands on exploration. The atmosphere is energetic and encourages curiosity about both art and the world of construction. We recommend wearing comfortable clothing as we will move between gallery spaces and outdoor viewing areas. Space is limited, so please register in advance to secure your spot for this unique educational session.

Nothing Bundt Cakes is celebrating its inaugural National Bring the Joy Day on September 15, 2026. To mark this special occasion, all 841 bakery locations across the nation are offering a complimentary Confetti Bundtlet to the first 300 guests who arrive in person. This delightful treat captures the essence of a classic birthday cake with vibrant sprinkles, providing a perfect way to brighten your morning. This exciting promotion requires no purchase to participate, making it an accessible opportunity for community members to enjoy a high quality dessert at no cost. Participation is strictly limited to the first 300 individuals per location while supplies last, so arriving early is highly recommended. Please note that this offer is exclusively available for in person claims and cannot be redeemed through online orders or telephone requests. As store opening times may vary, we encourage you to verify the specific hours for your nearest Triangle location to ensure you do not miss out on this sweet celebration. Join us to experience the joy and share in the fun of this nationwide event.

Are you looking to enhance your digital skills in a supportive and friendly environment? Durham Parks and Recreation is excited to invite adults ages 50 and older to participate in our upcoming Computer Refresher course. This program is specifically designed to help mature learners navigate the modern digital landscape with confidence, covering essential topics that make using your computer, tablet, or smartphone easier and more efficient than ever before. Whether you need help with basic navigation, staying connected with family, or simply feeling more comfortable with technology, our dedicated instructors are here to guide you every step of the way. These informative sessions will be held at the W.D. Recreation Center located at 1308 Fayetteville Street. We are offering two separate series of classes, running from September 8 to 29 and again from October 6 to 27, 2026. Please note that space for this popular course is limited to ensure a quality learning experience for everyone. Registration is required to secure your spot in these free sessions. Do not miss this fantastic opportunity to expand your knowledge and connect with peers.

Sharpen your strategy and enjoy a vibrant community atmosphere at the weekly Durham Chess Enthusiasts gathering. Hosted at the inviting Der Nachbar Bottleshop and Taps in Durham, this event offers the perfect blend of intellectual challenge and social relaxation. Whether you are a seasoned grandmaster or a curious newcomer eager to learn the game, you will find a welcoming environment to play and connect with fellow enthusiasts every Tuesday evening. The venue features an expansive selection of beverages, including twenty craft taps, fine wines, and non-alcoholic options, ensuring everyone finds a refreshing drink to enjoy during their matches. The space is inclusive and family friendly, allowing players to relax on the scenic outdoor patio or inside the cozy shop. Feel free to bring your own takeout or enjoy snacks from local bakeries during your visit. Admission is completely free, making this an accessible way to spend your Tuesday night. Please note that an adult must accompany any players under the age of eighteen. We invite you to join us this week to test your skills and be part of this growing local chess community.

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.

Science Café is an informal after-hours event designed to connect curious minds with current scientific research. Hosted by Chris Smith at the Daily Planet Café, this monthly gathering provides a relaxed environment for learning from expert speakers while enjoying a full food and drink menu. The café remains open from 5pm to 8pm to accommodate all attendees. This month, guest speaker Dr. Adrian Smith will present a visual showcase exploring the biomechanics of insect jumping. As the head of the Insect Research Lab at NCMNS and creator of the popular YouTube channel Ant Lab, Dr. Smith will share slow-motion footage and insights from recent laboratory projects. His presentation will highlight the surprising biological techniques insects use to navigate their environments, offering a rare look at natural history in motion. This event is perfect for anyone interested in entomology, high-speed photography, or cutting-edge biological research. Whether you are a student, a science enthusiast, or simply looking for an engaging evening, you will find this presentation both accessible and fascinating. Join us for an evening of discovery and discussion.