Family Fest 2026

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.

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!

Join us at Fenton in Cary for an unforgettable prehistoric adventure during our Little Fentonians Dino Day on August 13, 2026. This exciting event is perfect for young explorers eager to step back in time. The morning kicks off with Diggery Diggers Dino Adventure, an interactive and high energy show that combines fossils, magic, and music with impressive larger than life dinosaur characters. It is a fantastic opportunity for children to be mesmerized by the wonder of dinosaurs in a fun and educational setting. Following the performance, children can participate in a variety of creative, dinosaur themed crafts and engaging activities tailored to spark curiosity and imagination. This event is part of our commitment to providing enriching and complimentary experiences for families in our community. We encourage all participants to RSVP in advance to help us prepare for the festivities. Do not miss this chance to create lasting memories at one of our most popular seasonal programs. We look forward to seeing you and your little explorers there for a morning filled with prehistoric excitement and hands on learning.

Get ready for an unforgettable evening in the heart of downtown Wake Forest as the beloved Friday Night on White series returns for 2026. Taking place on the second Friday of each month from April through September, this high energy community event transforms White Street into a vibrant hub of entertainment. Attendees can look forward to sensational live performances from The Amazing Lounge Lizards, who specialize in keeping the crowd moving with classic rock, pop hits, R&B, and timeless Motown favorites. This outdoor celebration is the perfect way to kick off your weekend with family and friends. Guests are encouraged to explore the wide variety of local restaurants or grab a delicious bite from one of the onsite food trucks. While adult beverages will be available for purchase, please note that outside coolers and alcohol are not permitted. Bring your lawn chairs and blankets to settle in for a fantastic show. Whether you are a long time resident or a first time visitor, mark your calendars for this exceptional series. We invite you to join us on White Street for a night of music and community spirit.

Experience the vibrant heartbeat of the local cultural scene during the monthly 2nd Friday ArtWalk held throughout Chapel Hill and Carrboro. Taking place from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. on the second Friday of every month, this community celebration invites visitors to explore a diverse array of art galleries, working artist studios, unique boutiques, and local dining establishments. It is the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the creative spirit that defines our region. Attendees can expect an evening filled with inspiration, featuring live musical performances, spoken word poetry, and various artistic demonstrations at participating venues. Whether you are an art aficionado, a casual observer, or looking for a fun night out with friends and family, there is something for everyone to enjoy. These events are entirely free and open to the public, making them an accessible way to engage with the local community. We encourage you to check the schedules of individual venues to discover specific programming. Plan your evening, invite your friends, and come out to celebrate the remarkable talent and collaborative energy that thrives within the Chapel Hill and Carrboro districts.

Experience the vibrant atmosphere at Durham Beer Garden, located at 812 North Mangum Street in the heart of Durham, North Carolina. This premier destination functions as a spacious beer garden, a curated bottle shop, and a dynamic event space that welcomes guests to enjoy both indoor and outdoor seating options. Whether you are looking for a diverse selection of craft beers, fine wines, or a delicious meal from the on-site food truck, our venue provides the perfect setting for a relaxed outing with friends and family. We are excited to announce our current specials, which include five-dollar select draft pints and twenty-five percent off all four-pack and six-pack containers for your enjoyment at home. To enhance your evening, join us on Saturday, June 20, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. for a performance by The Backroads. This live music event is free to the public, making it the ideal way to spend your weekend. We invite you to visit us soon to explore our rotating selection and discover your new favorite brew in our welcoming community space.

Experience an unforgettable evening at Boxyard RTP as Taking Back Thursday returns with a live musical residency featuring The Forryst Bruthers. Held at the unique 15,000 square foot cargotecture development, this event utilizes a custom-built central pavilion to showcase exceptional local talent. Throughout August, multi-instrumentalist and producer Mark Simonsen brings his signature Americana style to the BeatBox stage, creating the perfect atmosphere for guests to unwind after a long day. Boxyard RTP offers more than just incredible music. Visitors can explore a vibrant community hub filled with diverse food and beverage vendors, unique retailers, and various service providers. Whether you are looking for a post-work drink or a relaxing social outing in a modern architectural setting, this venue provides an inviting backdrop for every occasion. We encourage you to bring your friends and colleagues to enjoy these live performances held every Thursday from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. To ensure you have the most current information or to view additional details about this August residency, please visit the official Boxyard RTP online calendar today.

Experience the vibrant spirit of North Carolina at the Durham Beer and Banjos music series. Hosted every Thursday evening from 6 to 8 p.m. at the picturesque Old Mill Farm, this event invites community members to unwind and enjoy a curated selection of live performances. Each week showcases talented musicians specializing in roots, bluegrass, Americana, and folk music, creating a perfect atmosphere for music lovers and families alike to gather in a beautiful outdoor setting. This weekly gathering celebrates local culture through the harmonious blend of high-quality craft beverages and soul-stirring melodies. Whether you are looking to enjoy a relaxing sunset or simply want to immerse yourself in the rich sounds of the local folk scene, this event provides the ideal backdrop. Admission is completely free, making it an accessible opportunity for everyone to experience the best local talent the region has to offer. We encourage you to visit the official Durham Beer and Banjos Facebook page to view the current performance schedule and plan your visit. Come join your neighbors at Old Mill Farm for an unforgettable evening of rhythm and community.

Experience an unforgettable evening at Boxyard RTP as Taking Back Thursday returns with a live musical residency featuring The Forryst Bruthers. Held at the unique 15,000 square foot cargotecture development, this event utilizes a custom-built central pavilion to showcase exceptional local talent. Throughout August, multi-instrumentalist and producer Mark Simonsen brings his signature Americana style to the BeatBox stage, creating the perfect atmosphere for guests to unwind after a long day. Boxyard RTP offers more than just incredible music. Visitors can explore a vibrant community hub filled with diverse food and beverage vendors, unique retailers, and various service providers. Whether you are looking for a post-work drink or a relaxing social outing in a modern architectural setting, this venue provides an inviting backdrop for every occasion. We encourage you to bring your friends and colleagues to enjoy these live performances held every Thursday from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. To ensure you have the most current information or to view additional details about this August residency, please visit the official Boxyard RTP online calendar today.

Join us at Der Nachbar Bottleshop and Taps for an authentic Stammtisch experience where the German community and beer enthusiasts gather for a night of camaraderie. This recurring event invites guests to enjoy premium German beers served in traditional steins at special pint prices. Located on Hillsborough Road in Durham, our venue offers a welcoming atmosphere with twenty taps, an inviting outdoor patio, and pet-friendly accommodations. Whether you are looking to practice your German, connect with fellow residents, or simply enjoy a high-quality brew in a cozy setting, this community night is the perfect midweek social outing. Der Nachbar is dedicated to fostering a relaxed environment where everyone feels at home. While you savor your drink, feel free to complement your visit with local treats or bring your own takeout food to enjoy on the patio. We pride ourselves on being a community hub that hosts diverse events, and our Stammtisch night is a highlight for those who appreciate good company and tradition. We look forward to seeing you there for a memorable evening of conversation and cheer. Be sure to check our full calendar for additional upcoming social gatherings.

The Madonna Confessions II Listening Party at Bitter Social is an exclusive event designed to get fans ready for the upcoming Saturday Madonna-Rama Birthday Dance Party. This gathering serves as an energetic warm-up session where attendees can immerse themselves in the music and legacy of Madonna in a collaborative environment. Throughout the evening, participants will experience a curated playlist of iconic tracks intended to inspire and energize. Guests are encouraged to dance and connect with other fans while enjoying a night of rhythm and celebration. This listening party focuses on setting the tone for the larger weekend festivities by building anticipation and fostering a shared musical appreciation. This event is perfect for dedicated Madonna fans looking to kick off their birthday celebrations early. The atmosphere is casual, welcoming, and high-energy. Please note that food is available to order from Centro until 9:00pm. To place an order, simply locate and scan the QR code found at the bar. We invite you to join us for this unique pre-party experience and help us celebrate in style.

The Nature Discovery Butterfly Walk is an interactive outdoor program designed to teach participants how to identify local butterfly species and understand their unique behaviors. This event serves as an introduction to citizen science and the natural history of our local pollinators. We begin with a brief educational talk covering identification techniques and ecological roles. Following the presentation, participants will head into the garden and prairie areas to conduct field observations. We will actively look for various species and document our findings. A key highlight of this experience is learning how to upload your data to the eButterfly collaborative science project, turning your sightings into valuable research contributions. This walk is suitable for nature enthusiasts, families, and anyone interested in local wildlife. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned hobbyist, you will enjoy a professional atmosphere focused on learning and discovery. Please dress for the weather and wear comfortable walking shoes for our outdoor excursion. We invite you to join us for this informative session and help us track butterfly populations in our region.

Triangle Cinemas invites families to experience the magic of cinema this summer with their exciting series of free movie screenings located at 9500 Forum Drive in Raleigh. Throughout the summer season, beginning June 16 and running through August 20, 2026, local residents can enjoy popular family films like The Wild Robot every Tuesday through Thursday, with additional screenings on select Fridays. Doors open promptly at 9:30 a.m. each morning, with feature presentations beginning at 10 a.m. This community initiative provides a wonderful opportunity for children to stay entertained and engaged during their summer break in a comfortable, theater environment. While guests are kindly asked to refrain from bringing outside food or beverages, a variety of delicious concessions will be available for purchase at the theater to complete your movie experience. Whether you are looking for a regular outing or a fun weekend activity, these screenings serve as a perfect escape for all ages. We encourage you to visit our website to view the full schedule and join us for a summer of cinematic adventure that the entire family will cherish.

Join us at Fenton in Cary for an unforgettable prehistoric adventure during our Little Fentonians Dino Day on August 13, 2026. This exciting event is perfect for young explorers eager to step back in time. The morning kicks off with Diggery Diggers Dino Adventure, an interactive and high energy show that combines fossils, magic, and music with impressive larger than life dinosaur characters. It is a fantastic opportunity for children to be mesmerized by the wonder of dinosaurs in a fun and educational setting. Following the performance, children can participate in a variety of creative, dinosaur themed crafts and engaging activities tailored to spark curiosity and imagination. This event is part of our commitment to providing enriching and complimentary experiences for families in our community. We encourage all participants to RSVP in advance to help us prepare for the festivities. Do not miss this chance to create lasting memories at one of our most popular seasonal programs. We look forward to seeing you and your little explorers there for a morning filled with prehistoric excitement and hands on learning.

Trivia Night is an interactive group competition hosted at the Downtown Cary Park Bark Bar. The event provides a structured environment for participants to test their general knowledge against other teams in a social setting. Experts from Hammered Trivia facilitate the evening by posing a variety of challenging questions. Attendees can expect several rounds of trivia covering diverse topics. The sessions include frequent opportunities to win prizes for top-performing teams. A full service bar is available on site, allowing participants to enjoy refreshments while they play. The format is designed to be fast-paced, engaging, and straightforward for all players involved. This event is open to the public and is ideal for groups of friends, coworkers, or individuals looking to meet new people. The atmosphere is casual, lively, and welcoming to all skill levels. Whether you are a casual player or a trivia enthusiast, you will find the experience both stimulating and entertaining. We invite you to gather your team and join us at the Bark Bar for an evening of friendly competition.

The Nature Discovery Butterfly Walk is an interactive outdoor program designed to teach participants how to identify local butterfly species and understand their unique behaviors. This event serves as an introduction to citizen science and the natural history of our local pollinators. We begin with a brief educational talk covering identification techniques and ecological roles. Following the presentation, participants will head into the garden and prairie areas to conduct field observations. We will actively look for various species and document our findings. A key highlight of this experience is learning how to upload your data to the eButterfly collaborative science project, turning your sightings into valuable research contributions. This walk is suitable for nature enthusiasts, families, and anyone interested in local wildlife. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned hobbyist, you will enjoy a professional atmosphere focused on learning and discovery. Please dress for the weather and wear comfortable walking shoes for our outdoor excursion. We invite you to join us for this informative session and help us track butterfly populations in our region.

The Nature Discovery Butterfly Walk is an interactive outdoor program designed to teach participants how to identify local butterfly species and understand their unique behaviors. This event serves as an introduction to citizen science and the natural history of our local pollinators. We begin with a brief educational talk covering identification techniques and ecological roles. Following the presentation, participants will head into the garden and prairie areas to conduct field observations. We will actively look for various species and document our findings. A key highlight of this experience is learning how to upload your data to the eButterfly collaborative science project, turning your sightings into valuable research contributions. This walk is suitable for nature enthusiasts, families, and anyone interested in local wildlife. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned hobbyist, you will enjoy a professional atmosphere focused on learning and discovery. Please dress for the weather and wear comfortable walking shoes for our outdoor excursion. We invite you to join us for this informative session and help us track butterfly populations in our region.