Durham Underground 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.

The Soap Making Workshop at Fenton is a hands-on event celebrating National Wellness Month through the craft of creating artisan goat milk soap. This session allows participants to disconnect from their daily routine and engage in a relaxing, creative process to produce high-quality personal care products. Attendees receive guided step-by-step instruction on soap-making techniques using premium goat milk bases. Participants can customize their soaps with a curated selection of natural fragrances, botanicals, and exfoliants to match their personal preferences. Every guest will leave with one or two unique, handcrafted soaps that are ready for personal use or gifting. The workshop covers the specific benefits of goat milk ingredients while focusing on practical craftsmanship. This event is designed for beginners and anyone looking for a creative outlet in a supportive environment. The atmosphere is calm and intended to foster meaningful connection without the pressure of achieving perfection. Whether you are interested in artisanal techniques or simply seeking a wellness-focused activity, this workshop provides a balanced experience. Register today to secure your spot and enjoy an afternoon dedicated to learning, creativity, and self-care.

This hands-on candle making workshop invites participants to design and craft a unique, personalized candle from start to finish. Our instructor guides you through the entire creative process, ensuring you learn the fundamental techniques required to produce high-quality home fragrance products. The workshop provides all necessary materials and tools in a structured, accessible environment. During the session, you will select your preferred scents and decorative elements to customize your creation. You will master the basics of wax melting, fragrance blending, and container preparation. By the end of the class, you will have a finished candle to take home. This experience emphasizes practical skill building and creativity in an interactive setting. This event is designed for beginners and anyone interested in learning a new craft. The atmosphere is casual, supportive, and focused on providing a rewarding creative outlet. No prior experience is required to participate successfully. Spaces are limited, so we encourage you to register early to secure your spot. Join us to enjoy a fun, productive session and leave with a personalized item you created yourself.

Ladies Night Little Sweetness is an interactive social gathering focused on creativity and relaxation. This event provides a dedicated space for friends to connect while engaging in hands-on artistic projects and culinary activities. It serves as an ideal break for those looking to unwind after the work week in a friendly environment. Participants will enjoy a guided session of pottery painting combined with professional cupcake decorating instructions. The evening is designed to offer a balanced mix of artistic expression and social interaction. Attendees are encouraged to bring their preferred food and beverages to enjoy throughout the session, creating a personalized happy hour experience tailored to their preferences. This event is perfect for small groups of friends or coworkers seeking a productive yet lighthearted atmosphere. It offers a structured way to learn new skills while building lasting memories. To secure your participation, please register through our online portal. A ten dollar deposit is required at the time of booking to reserve your spot. This amount will be applied directly to your final bill during the event.

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.

The International Festival 2026 is a community celebration hosted at Theater Raleigh that showcases global culture, cuisine, and arts. Presented by NC Vibes Event Planning and Management, this event offers an immersive weekend dedicated to experiencing diverse traditions from around the world without leaving the city. Attendees can expect a variety of cultural performances, live music, and dance showcases in an elegant atmosphere. The festival features a curated selection of international food, wine, and beer, allowing guests to sample global flavors while exploring unique traditions. Additional programming includes interactive cultural experiences designed to highlight the diverse heritage present in our local community. This event is suitable for friends and family members of all ages who appreciate world cultures and vibrant entertainment. Whether you are interested in trying new cuisine or watching professional performances, the festival provides a welcoming space to connect with neighbors and celebrate diversity. We invite you to join us for this unique cultural showcase. Please mark your calendars to ensure you do not miss this opportunity to experience the world in one weekend.

Experience the unique flavors of the season at the second annual Pawpaw Palooza, hosted by The Plant and Fullsteam Brewery in Pittsboro. This vibrant celebration honors North America largest native fruit, the pawpaw, in a fun and engaging environment. Whether you are a long-time fan of this regional treasure or curious to try it for the first time, this festival offers a diverse range of creative culinary samples that showcase the versatility of this delicious fruit. Beyond the tasting opportunities, guests can enjoy a lively atmosphere filled with local music, curated shopping experiences, and artisan craft projects at the Roam Paint Press art truck. The event is designed to bring the community together for a memorable Sunday afternoon. This event is free to attend and open to everyone, making it the perfect outing for foodies, families, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Join us on August 30 from 12 to 6 p.m. to celebrate local agriculture and creativity. For the latest schedule updates and vendor details, please follow the official event page and plan your visit today.

Join Downtown Cary Park horticulturist Patrick McMillan for an educational tour of the park aquatic plant collection. This event focuses on the peak flowering season of our stunning lotus blossoms and provides an in-depth look at local aquatic ecosystems. Participants will explore the unique biological adaptations of these plants and their essential roles within our local wildlife habitats. During the tour, you will examine the structural complexity of these water-dwelling species. Patrick McMillan will share insights into the fascinating history and lore surrounding these plants while highlighting their connection to the Triangle region. You will see firsthand how these botanical displays function as both ornamental beauty and vital environmental infrastructure for local fauna. This event is designed for nature enthusiasts, garden hobbyists, and anyone curious about urban horticulture. The atmosphere is professional, educational, and highly engaging for those who appreciate the natural world. Please wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking along the park pathways. Spaces are limited, so we encourage you to reserve your spot early to experience this aquatic display at its absolute peak. We look forward to exploring the magic of these plants with you soon.

Nature Play Day at NCMA is a free outdoor event designed to encourage children to explore the natural world through hands-on play. This monthly drop-in program transforms the museum park into an engaging environment filled with creative materials and outdoor resources for participants to enjoy at their own pace. Attendees can expect a rotating selection of activity supplies including fort-building equipment, puppets, costumes, bubbles, and painting stations. A dedicated play facilitator from Prairie Ridge will be on-site throughout the event to guide activities and ensure a positive experience for all participants. These materials change monthly to keep the environment fresh and exciting for frequent visitors. This program is specifically designed for children ages seven and younger, though all are welcome to attend. The event takes place entirely outdoors, so please dress appropriately for the current weather conditions and prepare for the possibility of getting messy during play. Join us at the park to foster your childs curiosity and imagination in a supportive outdoor setting. We look forward to seeing your family for an afternoon of discovery and exploration.

Unwind and connect with your local community at the weekly Board Game Night hosted at Bottle Theory in Apex. This recurring event invites enthusiasts of all levels to gather every Monday evening for a relaxing session filled with strategic challenges, friendly competition, and shared laughter. Whether you are a seasoned tabletop gamer or simply looking to meet new people in a welcoming environment, this is the perfect opportunity to spend your Monday night in great company. Enjoy an impressive selection of curated drinks as you play through your favorite games or discover new ones with fellow participants. The atmosphere is casual, inclusive, and designed to foster meaningful connections among attendees. This event is entirely free to join, making it an accessible way to brighten your week and enjoy the vibrant social scene at Bottle Theory. We encourage you to bring your own favorite games or join in on those provided by the house. Gather your friends or come solo to meet a new gaming partner. Join us this coming Monday from 6 to 9 p.m. to experience the fun firsthand.