Forging a Pattern Welded Damascus Billet

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!

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

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.

Fabrication II is a hands-on technical course designed to advance your metalworking abilities. This class serves as an essential bridge for participants looking to master more sophisticated fabrication equipment and gain authorization for open studio access. In this session, you will receive professional instruction on three core tools. You will learn to operate a plasma cutter for precision metal shaping, a TIG welder for clean and controlled joining, and gas torches for heating, bending, and cutting. Each section includes an overview followed by dedicated practice time to ensure you feel confident and comfortable with machine operation. Please note that our facility currently does not support aluminum TIG welding. This course is perfect for makers who have already completed foundational training and are ready to expand their technical toolkit. The environment is focused, collaborative, and structured to prioritize safety and skill acquisition. By attending, you unlock the ability to utilize these professional-grade tools for your independent projects during open studio hours. Sign up today to elevate your fabrication practice and take the next step toward technical mastery in the metal shop.

Forged Critters is a beginner friendly blacksmithing workshop where you learn to shape steel into custom animal figures. You will use hammers, punches, and chisels to bring a unique dog or mouse to life through traditional forging techniques. This hands-on experience provides a fundamental understanding of metalworking skills applicable to future projects. During the session, instructors guide you through the process of detailing your metal critters. You have the flexibility to create multiple small animals or transform your piece into a functional item, such as a sturdy hook or a bottle opener. These items make excellent personalized gifts and serve as a rewarding introduction to the craft of blacksmithing. This event is perfect for beginners looking for an approachable entry into metal art. The atmosphere is collaborative and focused on hands-on learning, ensuring everyone receives the guidance needed to succeed. Whether you are seeking a new creative hobby or a unique gift, this workshop provides the tools and expertise to build something lasting. Register today to secure your spot and start shaping steel.

This workshop teaches you how to transform scrap or new silver into custom jewelry pieces. Participants learn to melt, fold, and shape silver to create unique rings, bracelets, or pendants under expert guidance. You will master the fundamentals of metal manipulation in a hands-on environment. Whether you want a clean polished aesthetic or an organic forged look, you decide the final outcome. If you are unsatisfied with your initial design, you can simply melt the material down and begin again. We provide enough sterling silver for one bracelet or multiple smaller items, and you are welcome to bring your own scrap jewelry to incorporate into your designs. No prior metalworking experience is required for this class. It is ideal for hobbyists, craft enthusiasts, and those looking to repurpose old silver into wearable art. Please note that a portion of the course fee covers your provided materials, though additional silver will be available for purchase if needed due to fluctuating market prices. Join us to develop a new skill and walk away with a piece of jewelry you crafted yourself.

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.

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.

This workshop provides an introduction to the fundamentals of darning and basic embroidery stitches. Participants learn practical techniques to repair clothing and add decorative elements to personal items in a hands-on environment. The session is designed to help you extend the life of your wardrobe through creative and functional mending. During the class, you will receive expert instruction on various repair methods. You are encouraged to bring specific garments from home that require mending, as the instructor will offer tailored advice and group demonstrations for real-world application. All essential tools are provided, including an embroidery hoop, needles, thread, snips, scrap fabric, a hand-dyed logo tote, and stabilizer materials to ensure you have everything needed to master these crafts. This event is perfect for anyone interested in sustainable fashion, textile arts, or basic sewing skills. The atmosphere is collaborative and supportive, making it an ideal setting for both beginners and those looking to refine their needlework. Join us to develop valuable skills and enjoy a creative day of restoration. Sign up today to secure your spot and start your mending journey.

This workshop provides an introduction to the fundamentals of darning and basic embroidery stitches. Participants learn practical techniques to repair clothing and add decorative elements to personal items in a hands-on environment. The session is designed to help you extend the life of your wardrobe through creative and functional mending. During the class, you will receive expert instruction on various repair methods. You are encouraged to bring specific garments from home that require mending, as the instructor will offer tailored advice and group demonstrations for real-world application. All essential tools are provided, including an embroidery hoop, needles, thread, snips, scrap fabric, a hand-dyed logo tote, and stabilizer materials to ensure you have everything needed to master these crafts. This event is perfect for anyone interested in sustainable fashion, textile arts, or basic sewing skills. The atmosphere is collaborative and supportive, making it an ideal setting for both beginners and those looking to refine their needlework. Join us to develop valuable skills and enjoy a creative day of restoration. Sign up today to secure your spot and start your mending journey.

Art Inside the Bottle is an immersive event exploring the shared pursuit of balance in fine wine and visual art. Join us to discover how winemakers and artists utilize contrast, texture, and structure to create lasting masterpieces. We will examine how individual elements merge to produce works greater than their components. This evening features a curated tasting of five wines paired with five dishes inspired by the museum African art collection. Tashae Smith, Assistant Curator of African Art, will lead a guided gallery tour focused on the dialogue between African and American winemaking. Participants will conduct side-by-side comparisons of iconic grape varieties to understand how acidity, tannin, and composition create elegance and expression in every pour. This experience is designed for wine enthusiasts, art lovers, and those seeking a unique cultural evening. You will gain a deeper appreciation for sensory craft while enjoying a sophisticated, educational atmosphere. Please join us for this exploration of harmony through taste and visual storytelling. Reserve your space now to participate in this exclusive fusion of museum curation and viticulture.

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.