Dylan Gossett & Charles Wesley Godwin

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 50th Annual Lazy Daze Arts and Crafts Festival is a premier community gathering showcasing the work of over 250 talented artists from across the country. This milestone event celebrates fine craftsmanship and creative expression in a vibrant outdoor setting. Attendees can browse unique handmade goods while enjoying a wide variety of interactive experiences and local culture. Visitors can explore diverse exhibits featuring pottery, jewelry, paintings, and textiles. The festival provides entertainment across four dedicated stages and features more than 25 food vendors offering a range of culinary options. Guests may also relax in the beer garden or the designated lounge area. Families will find extensive programming at Kid Daze, which includes fun activities and the new Kid Collectors Market where children can purchase art created by festival participants. Professional artisans will host live demonstrations throughout the weekend. This festival is designed for art lovers, families, and anyone looking to enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of summer. It offers a unique opportunity to engage directly with makers and support the arts community. Join us to experience this landmark anniversary celebration and participate in a long standing local tradition.

Experience the vibrant spirit of Carrboro at the Sunday Brunch Music series hosted on the beautiful lawn of Weaver Street Market. This beloved community gathering invites neighbors and visitors alike to enjoy high quality live musical performances in a relaxed outdoor setting. It is the perfect way to spend your Sunday morning while soaking in the sunshine and enjoying the welcoming atmosphere of this unique community owned grocery space. The music series features talented local artists, creating a delightful soundtrack for your weekend brunch. Whether you are catching up with friends, enjoying a meal, or simply looking to unwind, this event offers an ideal environment for all ages. The performances take place from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., providing a wonderful opportunity to support local talent and engage with the local community. We encourage you to bring your family and friends to experience this free weekly event throughout the summer and fall seasons. Come discover why Weaver Street Market is a cornerstone of the Carrboro area. Visit us this Sunday to enjoy great music, delicious food, and a fantastic community vibe.

Metal Yoga is an energetic yoga class set to the iconic Queen of the Damned soundtrack. This unique session blends traditional movement with a powerful musical experience to create an engaging practice for all fitness levels. Participants can expect a structured yoga flow choreographed to high-energy metal tracks. The session focuses on building strength and flexibility while maintaining a steady rhythm. The environment is designed to be welcoming and inclusive, providing modifications for beginners and challenges for advanced practitioners. Complimentary coffee is provided to all guests as part of the admission fee. This event is ideal for anyone looking to bring more creativity and intensity to their routine. Whether you are a dedicated yogi or a metal music enthusiast, this class offers a refreshing alternative to standard studio sessions. The atmosphere is gothic, fun, and inclusive, creating a space where everyone feels encouraged to explore their practice. Please wear comfortable athletic clothing and bring a personal water bottle. We invite you to join us for this distinct session and experience a new way to move and connect.