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Educator Open House and SciREN Triangle Networking Event
Date and Time
September 24, 2026, Thurs., 6-8:30pm
Organizer
North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences
Venue
Daily Planet Cafe
Location
Downtown Raleigh
Address
11 W. Jones St., Raleigh, NC 27601
(234.1 mi)
Price
Free, please register
Description
The Educator Open House and SciREN Triangle Networking Event is an annual information exchange designed specifically for K through 12 educators. This evening provides a platform to connect with local scientists, museum staff, and educational partners to discover free classroom resources and professional development opportunities.
Attendees can access curriculum-correlated lesson plans based on current scientific research and discuss classroom implementation directly with experts. The program includes dinner and beverages provided by local sponsors. Participants will also have the opportunity to take guided tours of museum galleries, learn about upcoming field trips, and explore new outreach programs. Digital access to all shared lesson materials is included for every teacher in attendance.
This event is ideal for educators looking to integrate real-world science into their curricula while expanding their professional network in a relaxed setting. It offers a unique environment to rejuvenate teaching strategies and foster community connections. Join us to gather practical tools and resources that will enhance your students learning experience. We look forward to hosting you for this productive night of networking and collaboration.
Discover More Events
Featured Events
The best upcoming events you won’t want to miss
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Jaipur Literature Festival
3800 Hillsborough St, Raleigh, NC 27607
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.
233.8 mi
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$12.07–$56.84 per ticket, including fees & taxes
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Lakeside Retreats Family Fest
4521 Mial Plantation Rd
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!
235 mi
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Free
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Parents Night Out: Kids Laser Tag Night
at Battle House Laser Tag - Wake Forest, 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
221.1 mi
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$49
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Safe Homes, Strong Families Resource Day
Abbotts Creek Community Center, 9950 Durant Road, Raleigh, NC 27614
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.
225.2 mi
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Free
More events from North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences
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Brimley Brunch
at North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences, Downtown Raleigh
The Brimley Brunch is an exclusive morning gathering designed to honor the generous contributors of the Brimley Society. This event serves as an opportunity for us to express our gratitude while celebrating the scientific advancements made possible through your ongoing support. Join us for a meaningful morning focused on community and appreciation.
Attendees will enjoy a full brunch buffet served in a welcoming environment. The program features insights into recent scientific achievements and highlights the impact of your contributions. You will hear directly from our team about current initiatives and future goals that your membership helps sustain. It is a chance to connect with fellow supporters and engage with the science you help champion.
This event is strictly reserved for current Brimley Society members. We have curated a professional atmosphere that encourages networking and genuine conversation among our most dedicated patrons. If you are not yet a member, we invite you to join or upgrade your status today to secure your invitation to this and other premium events. We look forward to hosting you for a memorable morning of celebration and collaborative discovery.
234.1 mi
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Free, please RSVP
Migrating Monarchs
at Prairie Ridge Outdoor Classroom, West Raleigh
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.
233.2 mi
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Free, please register. This program is best for adults and children ages 5+
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Science Café: A Visual Natural History of Insect Jumping
at Daily Planet Cafe, Downtown Raleigh
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.
234.1 mi
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Free for all ages
More Annual Events
Recurring annual events and traditions in Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill.
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Shows daily, Thurs.-Sat.
Hopscotch Music Festival
at City Plaza, Moore Square and venues around downtown Raleigh, Downtown Raleigh
Hopscotch Music Festival is an annual multi-day event held in Downtown Raleigh featuring a diverse lineup of musical performances. The festival returns September 10-12 and serves as a premier destination for music enthusiasts to experience live shows across multiple local venues.
Attendees can expect an extensive schedule featuring established bands alongside emerging artists from various genres. The event highlights include intimate club sets, large scale outdoor performances, and unique artistic showcases scattered throughout the downtown core. This structure allows participants to explore different neighborhoods while discovering new music and catching sets from their favorite acts.
The festival is designed for fans of live music who enjoy a vibrant and immersive city experience. Whether you are a local resident or a visitor, the event provides a unique way to engage with the Raleigh arts scene. You can purchase passes for the 2026 festival starting on May 1. Mark your calendars now to secure your access to this energetic weekend of discovery and entertainment. Join us this September for a memorable celebration of live music and community.
234.6 mi
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Visit website for current prices and ticket availability.
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Times vary with date
BEYOND: The Cary Film Festival
at The Cary Theater, Cary
BEYOND: The Cary Film Festival is an annual gathering in Cary, North Carolina, dedicated to the art of short filmmaking and screenwriting. This event connects local and national creators with audiences to celebrate storytelling through the lens of independent cinema.
Attendees can expect a diverse showcase of short film screenings and professional screenplay readings. The schedule includes educational workshops and panel discussions led by industry veterans. These sessions offer practical insights into the craft of film production and narrative development. The festival highlights excellence in storytelling by featuring winning works from across the country throughout the multi-day event.
This festival is designed for filmmakers, industry professionals, and film enthusiasts who appreciate high-quality creative work. The atmosphere is collaborative and professional, providing an excellent environment for networking and artistic inspiration. Whether you are a seasoned filmmaker or a fan of short-form cinema, this festival provides a unique opportunity to engage with the creative community in the heart of the Triangle. We invite you to join us this fall to experience the latest in short film and support the next generation of screenwriters and directors.
235.9 mi
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Ticket Sales Aug 13,2026.
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Hopscotch Music Festival
at City Plaza, Moore Square and venues around downtown Raleigh, Downtown Raleigh
Hopscotch Music Festival is an annual multi-day event held in downtown Raleigh that showcases a diverse lineup of musical performances across various local venues. Scheduled for September 10 to 12, the festival serves as a cultural hub for music enthusiasts to experience live shows in the heart of the city.
Attendees can expect an extensive schedule featuring both established bands and emerging artists across multiple stages. The event spans the downtown area, allowing guests to transition easily between venues while discovering new sounds and enjoying high-quality production. Beyond the music, the festival highlights the vibrant urban environment of Raleigh, providing a unique backdrop for curated live sets and unforgettable performances.
This event is designed for music lovers who enjoy discovering new talent in an energetic, walkable city setting. The atmosphere is centered on community and exploration, making it ideal for those looking to immerse themselves in a dense weekend of live entertainment. Passes for the 2026 festival go on sale May 1. Plan your trip to Raleigh early to secure your spot for this essential musical gathering.
234.3 mi
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Visit website for current prices and ticket availability.
More Education Outreach
Educational programs, lectures, and outreach activities for students and the community.
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Jaipur Literature Festival North Carolina
at Jones Auditorium at Meredith College, West Raleigh
The Jaipur Literature Festival is a world renowned literary event returning to the Triangle area from September 11 to 13, 2026. This gathering celebrates global thinkers, poets, and writers, serving as a platform for cultural exchange and intellectual discourse through a series of engaging presentations and discussions.
This year the festival takes place at Meredith College on September 11 and 12, followed by a final day at the North Carolina State University Centennial Campus on September 13. Attendees can expect a diverse lineup of notable guests including Cheetie Kumar, Jaki Shelton Green, Joseph Bathanti, Karan Mahajan, Manil Suri, Pria Anand, Vijay Seshadri, and Vishwesh Bhatt. These sessions provide unique opportunities to hear from influential authors and storytellers who have shaped the modern literary landscape.
This festival is designed for readers, students, and anyone interested in contemporary global literature and arts. The atmosphere is professional, energetic, and highly inclusive, making it an ideal environment for those looking to expand their perspectives. We encourage you to join us for this landmark production alongside our partners at Artsplosure to experience an unforgettable celebration of words and ideas.
233.8 mi
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Friday Pass: $35 GA, $25 Educator, $10 Student Admission to opening night ceremony and keynote speech
Saturday Pass: $50 GA, $25 Educator, $10 Student Admission to all Saturday programming
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Fri.-Sat., TBA
Jaipur Literature Festival North Carolina
at Jones Auditorium at Meredith College, West Raleigh
The Jaipur Literature Festival North Carolina is a premier literary gathering that brings the world greatest literary festival to the Triangle region. This event serves as a cultural hub for authors, thinkers, and readers to connect through the exchange of ideas and storytelling. It serves as an extension of the iconic global festival, showcasing a diverse range of voices and perspectives.
Attendees can expect an immersive experience featuring a caravan of renowned poets, novelists, influencers, and historians. The program includes panel discussions, deep-dive conversations, and live performances by celebrated international and local voices. Past events have featured Pulitzer and Booker Prize winners alongside prominent cultural commentators, ensuring high-quality engagement for all participants. The festival now utilizes multiple venues, including Meredith College and the North Carolina State Centennial Campus, to provide a dynamic setting for these intellectual exchanges.
This festival is ideal for literature enthusiasts, students, and curious minds who value thoughtful discourse and global culture. The atmosphere is energetic, welcoming, and deeply intellectual. Register now to participate in this unique celebration of literature, art, and human creativity.
233.8 mi
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Friday Pass: $35 GA | $25 Educator | $10 Student Admission to opening night ceremony and keynote speech.
Saturday Pass: $50 GA | $25 Educator | $10 Student Admission to all Saturday programming.
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BEYOND Film Festival Masterclass
at DCP Gathering House, Cary
The BEYOND Film Festival is an annual event in Cary, North Carolina, dedicated to celebrating the art of short filmmaking and screenwriting. Hosted at the historic Cary Theater, the festival provides a platform for both emerging and established filmmakers to share their work with engaged audiences. It serves as a creative hub for industry professionals and enthusiasts alike to connect and collaborate.
Attendees can participate in a variety of screenings, panel discussions, and professional workshops. This eighth edition expands the experience by hosting specific workshops within the nearby Downtown Cary Park. Participants will engage with global short films and gain practical insights from industry experts through diverse programming designed to foster professional growth and creative exchange.
The festival is ideal for filmmakers, screenwriters, and cinema fans looking for an intimate, high-quality event. With all sessions and social activities located within walking distance of the theater, the festival offers an accessible and immersive environment for networking and learning. Join us in downtown Cary to celebrate global storytelling and refine your craft alongside a community of dedicated film professionals. Register today to secure your place at this year’s sessions.
236.2 mi
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Tickets available for purchase starting August 11 via The Cary Theater website. Each workshop requires a ticket in order to attend. This event is suitable for ages 16+.
More Museum Programs & Exhibits
Exhibits, special programs, and featured events at museums in Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill.
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Durham Community Day at Museum of Life and Science
at Museum of Life+Science, Durham,
Experience a day of wonder at the Museum of Life and Science, a premier destination featuring eighty four acres of immersive discovery. Guests can explore an incredible variety of hands-on exhibits spanning physics, aerospace, and zoology. Families are encouraged to engage with nature in our butterfly house, visit the farmyard to meet alpacas and goats, or observe rescued black bears and red wolves in their habitats. This facility is designed to inspire curiosity in visitors of all ages through interactive learning.
Durham Community Days offer a fantastic opportunity for local residents to experience these world class exhibits at no cost. During these scheduled days, Durham County residents receive free admission to the museum, making it the perfect time to enjoy our walking trails, climbing structures, and scientific displays. Please ensure that all adults bring valid proof of residency to participate in this offer. Each adult may bring up to five children to join in the exploration. Visit our website to view the upcoming calendar of community days and plan your next family adventure today.
222.1 mi
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FREE
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Ackland Art Museum: Extended Hours for 2nd Friday ArtWalk
at Ackland Art Museum, Chapel Hill,
Experience the vibrant cultural heartbeat of Chapel Hill by visiting the Ackland Art Museum during our special extended hours. Held on the second Friday of every month from 5 to 9 p.m., these sessions invite guests to immerse themselves in a prestigious collection featuring over 21,000 diverse works of art. Whether you are an art enthusiast or looking for a relaxing evening out, this event offers a unique opportunity to explore the galleries after sunset.
Visitors are encouraged to browse our curated Museum Store or find inspiration in our galleries while utilizing the art supplies provided by our lobby art cart. This program is completely free to the public, requiring no prior registration, making it the perfect destination for individuals or groups. Join us for a delightful evening of creativity and exploration right on the University of North Carolina campus.
We look forward to welcoming you to the Ackland for an unforgettable experience. For more details on upcoming public programming and specific exhibition highlights, please visit the official museum website to plan your visit today.
232.8 mi
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FREE
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Visit Raleigh Fire Museum on the Second Saturday
at Raleigh Fire Museum,
Discover the rich history of firefighting at the Raleigh Fire Museum, located at 105 Keeter Center Drive. This hidden gem offers a fascinating glimpse into the past with hundreds of carefully preserved artifacts and historical photographs on display. Whether you are a local resident or visiting the area, this museum provides an educational and engaging experience for all ages. It is a perfect destination for families and history enthusiasts alike to explore the legacy of fire service in our community.
The museum opens its doors to the public on the second Saturday of each month from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Admission is completely free, making it an accessible activity for everyone. Visitors can explore the interior collection and step outside to get an up-close look at a modern fire truck and experience a working fire hose display. Parking and facilities are conveniently available on-site for your comfort. We invite you to join us this Saturday to learn more about these local heroes. If you are unable to make it during these hours, please contact the staff to schedule a private tour.
235.3 mi
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FREE
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