Free Car Washes for Teachers and School Staff in August

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.

Prepare for the upcoming academic year at the vibrant Books, Bikes and Back-to-School event hosted by the Durham Co-op Market. This community gathering is designed to help students and families transition smoothly into the school season while celebrating the joy of learning and healthy living. Attendees can look forward to an engaging atmosphere filled with activities that emphasize education, active lifestyles, and community connection. Whether you are hunting for great resources, looking to brush up on bike safety, or simply wanting to connect with local neighbors, this event offers something special for everyone. The Durham Co-op Market provides a welcoming environment for all participants to enjoy the festivities together. This is an excellent opportunity to gather necessary supplies and enjoy a productive day out before classes resume. We warmly invite all members of the community to join us for this free event on August 15, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 1111 W Chapel Hill Street in Durham. Mark your calendars and bring your friends for an unforgettable experience that supports our local students and families.

Join Chapel Hill Parks and Recreation for an exciting Community Book Bag Giveaway designed to support local students as they prepare for the upcoming school year. This vibrant event takes place on Saturday, August 15, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Hargraves Community Center. It is a fantastic opportunity for families to come together and enjoy a day filled with music, live entertainment, and community spirit. Beyond the distribution of essential school supplies, attendees can look forward to a variety of perks including free haircuts and braids, as well as delicious lunch options served mid-day. The event features numerous activities tailored for both youth and adults, making it a perfect outing for the whole family. Please note that children must be present to receive a book bag, and guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets to relax and enjoy the festivities. Admission is completely free and no prior registration is required for participation. We invite all local families to head to 216 Roberson Street to kick off the school year with style and support from our generous community partners.

The 8th Annual Mud Day Festival is an outdoor community event dedicated to celebrating our local wetlands and the joys of nature. This event invites participants of all ages to explore environmental education through hands-on activities and interactive displays hosted by regional conservation groups. By fostering a deeper connection to our natural landscape, we provide a unique space for learning and outdoor play. Attendees can participate in a variety of engaging experiences including nature education stations and environmental workshops. The main attraction is a massive, controlled mud pit designed for sliding and sensory play. In addition to the mud activities, the event features a curated selection of local food trucks offering diverse dining options throughout the day. Visitors will find plenty of space to relax, eat, and socialize while enjoying the festival atmosphere. This festival is designed for families, nature enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a unique outdoor experience. The atmosphere is casual, energetic, and highly interactive. We encourage all guests to dress for mess and prepare to get dirty while exploring the grounds. Join us in 2026 for a memorable day of community, education, and outdoor fun.

Experience the vibrant heart of the local creative scene at the Durham Craft Market, held every Saturday morning at Durham Central Park. This juried, artist-run collective showcases the incredible talents of over fifty regional artisans who live and create within thirty miles of the city. Whether you are searching for unique handmade decor, exquisite jewelry, or one-of-a-kind gifts, you will find an exceptional variety of high-quality goods that celebrate the spirit of our community. The market serves as a welcoming gathering space where neighbors and visitors can connect directly with the talented individuals behind the work. Since its inception in 2006, this grassroots initiative has blossomed into a must-visit destination for those who value craftsmanship and local commerce. Please note that summer hours run from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m., while winter hours shift to 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Admission is completely free, making it the perfect weekend outing for everyone. We invite you to come out, support your local makers, and enjoy the energetic atmosphere of our outdoor marketplace. Visit us at 501 Foster Street this Saturday to discover your next favorite treasure.

The Coffee to Coffee Bike Ride is a community cycling event celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Raleigh greenway system and the opening of a new Drift Coffee location. Riders will travel from the Ridgewood store to the new shop near Dix Park using an accessible greenway route. Participants will enjoy a 10 mile out and back ride primarily on paved greenway paths. Volunteers will lead and sweep the group to ensure safety and support for all riders. The first 50 guests will receive free swag items upon arrival at the destination. Riders are encouraged to arrive by 8:30 am to grab a beverage or snack before the 9:15 am departure. This event is open to all cyclists who enjoy casual group rides and wish to support local infrastructure and businesses. The atmosphere will be social, energetic, and beginner friendly. Please review the Ride with GPS route before arriving to prepare for the course. We look forward to seeing you there for a morning of exercise and celebration.

Prepare for the upcoming academic year at the vibrant Books, Bikes and Back-to-School event hosted by the Durham Co-op Market. This community gathering is designed to help students and families transition smoothly into the school season while celebrating the joy of learning and healthy living. Attendees can look forward to an engaging atmosphere filled with activities that emphasize education, active lifestyles, and community connection. Whether you are hunting for great resources, looking to brush up on bike safety, or simply wanting to connect with local neighbors, this event offers something special for everyone. The Durham Co-op Market provides a welcoming environment for all participants to enjoy the festivities together. This is an excellent opportunity to gather necessary supplies and enjoy a productive day out before classes resume. We warmly invite all members of the community to join us for this free event on August 15, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 1111 W Chapel Hill Street in Durham. Mark your calendars and bring your friends for an unforgettable experience that supports our local students and families.

Step back in time and discover the heart of North Carolina with a captivating journey aboard the Historic Raleigh Trolley. This immersive one-hour tour offers an unparalleled look at the capital city, guiding visitors through downtown to explore significant historic sites, architectural landmarks, and the vibrant culture that has shaped Raleigh since its founding in 1792. Whether you are a long-time local or a first-time visitor, this excursion provides fascinating insights into the community evolution that defines the area. Tours depart every Saturday from March through December at the scenic Mordecai Historic Park. With convenient start times available at 11 a.m., 12 p.m., 1 p.m., and 2 p.m., it is easy to find a slot that fits your schedule. Admission is affordably priced at ten dollars for adults and six dollars for youth, making this an ideal activity for families and history enthusiasts alike. Do not miss your chance to see the city from a unique perspective. Secure your seats today by visiting the Mordecai Historic Park Visitor Center, booking online, or calling 919-996-4364 to reserve your place on this historic adventure.

Experience the power of community sharing at the Durham Really Really Free Market. This recurring local event is designed to foster connection through generosity rather than commerce. Participants are invited to bring items they no longer need and take home items they can use, creating a unique cycle of reuse that benefits everyone. Whether you have home goods, clothing, books, or toys to pass on, this market provides the perfect venue to give your items a second life. Beyond physical goods, the market welcomes those eager to share their talents, such as music, art, or specialized services, making it a vibrant space for local interaction. Please remember that this is a zero-money event, and attendees are kindly asked to take any unselected items back home to ensure the space remains clean. Join us on the third Saturday of each month at Orchard Park from 12 to 2 p.m. to participate in this uplifting movement. We encourage you to visit the official Instagram page for real-time updates and scheduling adjustments before attending.

Discover a curated selection of unique finds at the Pop-Up Raleigh Art and Vintage Market. Held on the third Saturday of every month from March through December, this recurring event transforms Trophy on Maywood into a vibrant hub for local creativity. Shoppers are invited to browse an eclectic array of offerings, including one-of-a-kind handmade art, high-quality vintage clothing, and thoughtfully sourced accessories. By attending, you play a vital role in supporting talented local artisans and small business owners who contribute to the cultural landscape of the Triangle area. This market provides the perfect atmosphere to hunt for distinctive gifts or to simply enjoy an afternoon of discovery in a welcoming community setting. Whether you are a long-time vintage enthusiast or an art lover looking for something special to brighten your home, you will find something that resonates with your personal style. We encourage you to visit our website or follow our Facebook page for the latest updates on participating vendors and upcoming seasonal themes. Come join us this month for an inspiring shopping experience that celebrates local talent and sustainable fashion.