Durham Craft Market

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 ultimate weekend treasure hunt at The Raleigh Market, held every Saturday and Sunday at the North Carolina State Fairgrounds in Raleigh. With nearly fifty years of history, this expansive marketplace draws visitors from across the region to explore hundreds of indoor and outdoor vendors. Whether you are searching for high-end antiques, unique jewelry, power tools, or artisanal goods, there is truly something for everyone to discover at this beloved local staple. Beyond the diverse shopping opportunities, guests are encouraged to arrive with an appetite. The market hosts a rotating selection of local food trucks, classic fair food, and fresh farm stands, ensuring a delicious experience for all attendees. Admission and parking are both completely free, making this the perfect destination for a budget-friendly family outing or a relaxing weekend stroll. Visit us this weekend to see what treasures await you among our many dedicated merchants. For the most up-to-date information on upcoming vendors and special event notifications, please be sure to follow The Raleigh Market on Facebook today.

Calling all collectors, hobbyists, and fans of unique treasures. Charlie is Collectible Show is excited to invite you to the CCS Nerd Yard Sale, happening on August 30, 2026, at Triangle Town Center in Raleigh. This event transforms the former Macy’s space into a massive hub for enthusiasts looking to clear out their personal stashes and discover rare gems. Whether you are searching for vintage collectibles, comics, or unique hobby items, you are sure to find pieces that deserve a second life in your own collection. This community-focused gathering offers free admission and free parking for all attendees, making it an accessible outing for families and dedicated hunters alike. It is the perfect opportunity to browse a wide variety of items while meeting fellow enthusiasts from across the region. If you are interested in becoming a seller yourself, there are still opportunities to apply for a table and showcase your goods. Mark your calendars for this exciting event and join us for a day of discovery and community connection in the heart of the Triangle.

Experience the magic of cinema without breaking your budget at The Lumina Theater in Southern Village. Located conveniently at 620 Market Street in Chapel Hill, this premier local destination is proud to offer their signature Terrific Tuesdays promotion. Every Tuesday throughout the entire year, movie lovers can secure tickets for the incredibly low base price of 6.25 dollars. After including all necessary taxes and fees, your total comes to just 7.75 dollars per person, making it an ideal choice for a budget-friendly date night or a casual mid-week outing with friends and family. Beyond the savings on admission, guests can also enjoy exclusive concession specials offered only on Tuesdays. This creates a perfect opportunity to indulge in your favorite theater snacks while enjoying the latest film releases in a comfortable, inviting atmosphere. Whether you are looking for a routine movie experience or a cost-effective way to entertain the whole group, The Lumina Theater delivers both quality and value. We encourage you to plan your next visit soon to take advantage of these significant weekly savings and elevate your Tuesday evening plans.

Raleigh Parks and Oaks and Spokes invite you to participate in our highly anticipated Learn to Ride program. Designed specifically for riders ages five and up, this initiative helps participants master balance and control on a bicycle without the use of training wheels. By utilizing the proven balance bike method, our dedicated volunteers provide a supportive environment where riders can gain confidence while safely navigating on two wheels. Whether you are a complete beginner or looking to transition away from training wheels, our team is here to guide you every step of the way. All necessary equipment, including a balance bike and a helmet, will be provided for your convenience. If you prefer to bring your own bicycle, our skilled mechanics are available to remove pedals and training wheels to prepare your bike for the training session. These events are incredibly popular and frequently sell out, so we encourage you to mark your calendars when registration opens. Visit our official website to secure your spot today and start your journey toward cycling independence with Raleigh Parks.

Experience the vibrant community atmosphere at the Carrboro Farmers Market, where local agriculture meets family fun. Our Market Bunch program offers engaging activities every Wednesday from April through November, focusing on sustainability, healthy eating, and creative arts. These interactive sessions are designed to inspire young minds while connecting them with the farmers and artisans who grow our food. Beyond our weekly sessions, the market hosts a variety of seasonal celebrations including Kids Seedling Day, the Strawberry Jamboree, and our popular Tomato Day. These events provide a unique opportunity for families to learn about seasonal produce while enjoying live music, vendor specials, and educational displays. Whether you are looking to shop for fresh local meat and vegetables or seeking a fun outing for your children, there is something for everyone to enjoy at the Carrboro Town Commons. We invite you to bring your family and participate in these free, enriching experiences. Check our official calendar for specific event dates and follow our newsletter for the latest updates. Join us this week to support your local food system and create lasting memories with your neighbors.

History at High Noon is a virtual lunchtime lecture series hosted by the North Carolina Museum of History. This session explores the history of Operation Bumblebee, a top secret project conducted by the US Navy during the late 1940s on a North Carolina barrier island. Attendees will learn about the seven remaining concrete towers that served as testing grounds for experimental propulsion systems. The presentation covers how these covert naval developments revolutionized ship defense mechanisms. Participants will also discover how this research provided the essential foundation for later supersonic flight and advancements in outer space exploration. The lecture provides a detailed look at a significant but often overlooked chapter of military and technological history. This event is designed for history enthusiasts, technology buffs, and anyone interested in local North Carolina research. The atmosphere is educational, accessible, and perfect for a mid day break. Join us to uncover the story behind these mysterious towers and gain insight into the innovations that shaped modern aviation. Register online today to secure your spot for this informative virtual session.

Experience the vibrant heart of Hillsborough during the Last Fridays Makers Market. Held on the last Friday of every month, this community celebration transforms downtown into a bustling hub of creativity and connection. Visitors are invited to explore an array of local art galleries, boutique shops, and fine jewelry studios that highlight the impressive talent within our region. The atmosphere comes alive with captivating live performances, ranging from local musicians to circus entertainers, ensuring there is something to inspire everyone. From May through October, the Old Courthouse lawn becomes a focal point for the Makers Market, showcasing over twenty unique local vendors offering handmade goods and one of a kind treasures. Whether you are strolling down Churton Street or relaxing on the lawn during a live performance, this recurring event offers the perfect opportunity to engage with the local culture and support homegrown talent. Join us for an evening of artistic discovery and community spirit. Visit the official Hillsborough Arts Council website today to view the full schedule of participating venues and plan your visit for the next event date.

Get ready for an incredible opportunity to refresh your wardrobe or stock up for your next production at the Durham Ballet Theatre Costume Sale. Join us on Saturday, August 29, 2026, from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. at our facility located at 608 N Duke Street in Durham. As we embark on a massive seasonal cleaning of our storage archives, we are opening our doors to the public to offer a vast collection of high-quality theater and dance costumes at unbeatable prices, with many items available for under ten dollars. Whether you are a professional performer, a student preparing for a recital, or simply someone who loves unique pieces for plays and musicals, this event features a diverse range of attire suitable for children, teens, and adults. Because this is a popular sale, we encourage you to arrive early to ensure the best selection of performance wear. Do not miss this chance to grab high-quality items for a bargain. We look forward to seeing the local community there to support the arts and find their perfect costume match.

Experience the creative spirit of the community at the Durham Craft Market, held every Saturday morning at the vibrant Durham Central Park. This juried, artist-run collective showcases the incredible talents of over 50 local artisans who live and create within 30 miles of the city. Whether you are searching for unique handmade gifts, home decor, or one-of-a-kind treasures, you will find high-quality craftsmanship that truly reflects the local character of Durham. From April through October, join the festivities between 8 a.m. and 12 p.m., or enjoy a slightly later start from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. during the cooler months between November and March. Admission to this lively outdoor event is completely free, making it the perfect destination for families, art lovers, and neighbors to connect in an inviting atmosphere. Support local small businesses while enjoying a refreshing morning outdoors. We encourage you to visit our website for the most up-to-date schedule information and plan your trip today to discover the best handmade items that our talented local artists have to offer.