Free Guided Tour of N.C. State Capitol

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.

Join us for an exciting series of Pop-Up Play Dates held at the scenic Market Square at Sweetwater Town Center in Apex, North Carolina. These vibrant morning gatherings are designed specifically for children and families to enjoy the beautiful summer weather together. Every Tuesday throughout August 2026, we transform the lawn into a hub of activity featuring a variety of engaging outdoor games and fun movement exercises that encourage active play and socialization in a safe environment. These sessions are entirely free to attend, making them the perfect opportunity for local families to connect and start their mornings with energy and joy. Whether you are looking for a way to keep the kids entertained or seeking a fun community experience, our play dates offer the ideal setting for making new friends. We encourage all interested parents and guardians to monitor our Facebook page for the latest updates and any schedule adjustments. Come visit us at 2701 Lawnview Lane between 9 and 10:30 a.m. to experience the fun firsthand. We look forward to seeing you and your little ones on the lawn this August.

North Hills Kids is back for the summer of 2026, bringing high-energy excitement to families in the Raleigh area. This popular seasonal series is specifically designed for preschool-aged children to enjoy engaging and themed activities in a vibrant outdoor setting. Join us at Midtown Park on the third Tuesday of each month from June through August, between 9:30 and 11 a.m., for a morning of organized fun and play. These events offer a wonderful opportunity for your little ones to explore new themes and interact with peers in a safe environment. Please be aware that some sessions have limited supplies available, so we recommend arriving promptly as participation is based on a first come, first served basis. These events are completely free to the public, making them an excellent way to keep your children active and entertained during the summer months. Whether you are a local resident or visiting the area, North Hills Kids provides the perfect atmosphere for family bonding. We invite you to visit our website at visitnorthills.com/events to see the full schedule and learn more about our upcoming programs. Bring your preschooler to North Hills and create lasting summer memories with us.

Triangle Cinemas, located at 9500 Forum Drive in Raleigh, North Carolina, invites local families to enjoy a series of complimentary movie screenings throughout the summer months. From June 16 to August 20, 2026, guests can catch a variety of popular films, including the beloved feature Trolls, every Tuesday through Thursday, with several special Friday showings added to the schedule. Doors open promptly at 9:30 a.m. each morning, with the screenings starting at 10:00 a.m. This community-focused initiative provides a fantastic, budget-friendly way for children to stay entertained and engaged during their summer break. While no outside food or beverages are permitted inside the theater, a variety of tasty treats will be available for purchase at the concessions stand. Whether you are looking to escape the heat or simply enjoy a morning of cinema with your little ones, this program is the perfect outing. We encourage you to visit our website today to check the full schedule of films and plan your next visit to Triangle Cinemas for an unforgettable summer movie experience.

Experience the rich heritage of North Carolina agriculture at the annual Brightleaf Harvest Day held at the historic Duke Homestead in Durham. This immersive event invites guests to step back in time and witness traditional tobacco harvesting and looping demonstrations. Visitors of all ages are encouraged to participate in these hands-on historical activities or engage with knowledgeable interpreters stationed throughout the preserved buildings to learn about the site's unique cultural significance. In addition to the historical demonstrations, the Duke Homestead Education and History Corporation will host a delicious barbecue lunch fundraiser on the grounds. Guests can enjoy a classic meal featuring pulled pork, green beans, and potatoes while supporting essential site maintenance, educational programming, and staff development. This event offers a fantastic opportunity for families and history enthusiasts to spend a rewarding morning outdoors. Admission to the festivities is free, making this a perfect weekend outing for the entire community. We look forward to seeing you on August 22, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. to celebrate our regional history. Please join us at Duke Homestead to help sustain this local treasure.

Discover the profound stories and vibrant legacy of Raleigh with an immersive Black History Walking Tour. Every Saturday from July 11 through September 12, 2026, guests are invited to journey through the heart of the city to uncover hidden narratives that shaped our community. This engaging one-hour experience departs from the historic Dr. M. T. Pope House Museum and guides participants across a 1.4-mile path through the iconic Third Ward neighborhood and Black Wall Street. Throughout the tour, you will visit significant historic churches and explore the cultural landmarks that define the African American experience in Raleigh. This educational outing provides a unique opportunity to connect with local heritage in an active and meaningful way. Whether you are a long-time resident or a curious visitor, this tour promises an enriching perspective on city history. Space is limited for these guided excursions, so be sure to secure your spot today. Tickets are priced at 10 dollars for adults and 6 dollars for children ages 6 to 17. Register online now to guarantee your participation in this essential historical discovery experience.

Experience a journey back in time at Historic Yates Mill County Park in Raleigh. As the last operable water-powered gristmill in Wake County, this site offers a unique window into history. During our Mill Open House, guests are invited to step inside the historic structure to witness its impressive inner workings firsthand. Our knowledgeable historic interpreters will be on site to provide insights into the milling process and the local heritage of this remarkable landmark. Whether you are a history enthusiast or simply looking for an educational outing, this program provides a fascinating look at the technology that powered our community for over two centuries. In addition to the open house, visitors can enjoy the surrounding 174-acre wildlife refuge, which features beautiful walking trails, serene gardens, and picturesque picnic areas. This free, drop-in event is perfect for all ages and requires no registration, though space inside the mill is limited to twenty guests at a time. Plan your visit today to explore our natural beauty and rich cultural history. We look forward to welcoming you to the mill.

Discover the profound stories and vibrant legacy of Raleigh with an immersive Black History Walking Tour. Every Saturday from July 11 through September 12, 2026, guests are invited to journey through the heart of the city to uncover hidden narratives that shaped our community. This engaging one-hour experience departs from the historic Dr. M. T. Pope House Museum and guides participants across a 1.4-mile path through the iconic Third Ward neighborhood and Black Wall Street. Throughout the tour, you will visit significant historic churches and explore the cultural landmarks that define the African American experience in Raleigh. This educational outing provides a unique opportunity to connect with local heritage in an active and meaningful way. Whether you are a long-time resident or a curious visitor, this tour promises an enriching perspective on city history. Space is limited for these guided excursions, so be sure to secure your spot today. Tickets are priced at 10 dollars for adults and 6 dollars for children ages 6 to 17. Register online now to guarantee your participation in this essential historical discovery experience.

Discover the heart and soul of the capital city with the Historic Raleigh Trolley Tours. This captivating one-hour journey transports guests through the vibrant streets of Downtown Raleigh, offering a front-row seat to the landmark sites and architectural treasures that have defined the community since its founding in 1792. Led by knowledgeable guides, you will uncover fascinating stories about the local culture and historical evolution of this remarkable area. Tours depart every Saturday from March through December, beginning at the picturesque Mordecai Historic Park. With four convenient start times available each day, it is the perfect excursion for families, history enthusiasts, and visitors looking to experience the authentic spirit of Raleigh. Whether you are a lifelong resident or a first-time tourist, this immersive experience provides a unique perspective on the heritage that shaped the region. Tickets are affordably priced to ensure everyone can join the adventure. Secure your spot today by visiting the Mordecai Historic Park Visitor Center or calling 919-996-4364. Do not miss this opportunity to explore history in motion. Book your trolley seat now and prepare for an unforgettable ride through time.

Experience history firsthand with a free guided tour of the North Carolina State Capitol in downtown Raleigh. This National Historic Landmark is a premier example of Greek Revival architecture, completed in 1840. Visitors are invited to explore the iconic rotunda, the historic legislative chambers, and the Governor’s office area. Guided tours are offered every Saturday at 11 a.m., 1 p.m., and 3 p.m. with no prior reservation required. Simply arrive at the front entrance and join the group for an informative hour of local history. Beyond the guided experience, the Capitol remains open for self-guided exploration throughout the week, providing a flexible way for families and history enthusiasts to learn about North Carolina governance. Located just steps away from other major downtown attractions, it serves as the perfect centerpiece for your weekend itinerary. Whether you are a local resident or visiting from out of town, this accessible cultural experience offers unique insights into the heart of the state. Contact the Capitol staff or check their social media for the most current schedule updates and plan your visit today.