Free Guided Tour of the North Carolina State Capitol

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.

Experience the excitement of The Raleigh Market, a premier weekend destination located at the North Carolina State Fairgrounds. Every Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., this expansive event transforms the fairgrounds into a vibrant treasure hunt. With hundreds of indoor and outdoor vendors, visitors can discover a diverse array of items ranging from high-end antiques and unique jewelry to essential power tools and fine art. This long-standing tradition has served as a central hub for shoppers from across the region for over five decades. Beyond the incredible shopping opportunities, The Raleigh Market is a culinary delight. Guests are encouraged to arrive hungry to explore a rotating selection of delicious food trucks, classic fair favorites, and fresh items from local farm stands. Admission to the market is completely free, and complimentary parking is provided, making it an accessible and enjoyable weekend outing for everyone. Whether you are searching for rare collectibles or simply looking to support local businesses, there is something for everyone to discover. Visit us this weekend and follow The Raleigh Market on Facebook for the latest updates and vendor announcements.

Join the community for a high-energy evening at the Beats & Bars Music Trivia Night, hosted at The Durham Hotel. This exciting event celebrates the rich tapestry of Black music, bringing together fans for a nostalgic competition that tests your deep knowledge of hip-hop, R&B, soul, funk, and Southern classics. Whether you are a casual listener or a dedicated music enthusiast, this trivia night offers a perfect platform to showcase your expertise while connecting with fellow fans in a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere. Gather your crew, form your team, and prepare for an unforgettable night of competition and good vibes. This event is part of the broader Beats & Bars Music Festival, a milestone celebration returning to Durham for its tenth year to honor creativity and culture. Entry to the trivia night is entirely free, making it an accessible opportunity to engage with Durham's thriving music scene. We invite you to bring your passion for music and join us for this unique cultural experience. Secure your spot now and get ready to celebrate the artistry and history of the music we love.

Labor Day Eve 2026 is an outdoor entertainment event celebrating the start of the long holiday weekend. Hosted at our venue, the event serves as a community gathering space for guests to enjoy live music and refreshments before the holiday. It is an ideal way to kick off your time off with friends and family in a social setting. The programming begins at 430PM with DJ Gray providing a curated set of music to set the tone for the afternoon. As the evening progresses, the headline act Natelli will take the main stage at 9pm to deliver a high energy performance. Attendees can expect a seamless transition from afternoon beats to a full stage production throughout the evening. This event is designed for anyone looking for a lively atmosphere to celebrate the holiday. The environment is open to the public and offers a blend of professional sound and a welcoming crowd. We invite you to join us for a day of celebration. Please plan your arrival accordingly to secure your spot for the main performance.

Discover the profound legacy of Raleigh at the historic Oakwood Cemetery. Spanning seventy-two acres and over one hundred and forty years of history, this park-like setting serves as the final resting place for numerous state and national leaders. We invite you to join our Stroll Through History tours, which take place on the second and fourth Thursday of each month. These complimentary community gatherings offer an informal yet engaging way to explore different sections of the grounds. Each tour is unique, featuring fresh research and captivating stories that bring the past to life. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a regular attendee, you will appreciate the small group environment that allows for interactive dialogue and tailored exploration of local history. It is a wonderful opportunity to learn about the individuals who shaped our region while enjoying a serene walk in nature. Please visit our website to view the full event calendar and plan your visit. We look forward to sharing these fascinating narratives with you as we walk through history together.

The 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony is a formal public gathering dedicated to honoring the sacrifices of first responders and remembering the lives lost on September 11, 2001. This event provides our community with a meaningful space to reflect on the events of that day and express gratitude to those who serve on the front lines every day. We invite all residents to join us in this collective act of commemoration and solidarity. The ceremony will feature a series of solemn tributes, including a moment of silence and a ceremonial presentation of the colors. Attendees will hear brief remarks from local community leaders and first responder representatives who share personal reflections on service and resilience. The program is designed to be concise yet impactful, ensuring that our shared commitment to never forget remains at the forefront of the experience. This event is open to all community members seeking to pay their respects in a quiet and supportive environment. Please arrive early to secure seating as we prepare to honor this significant moment together. We look forward to your presence as we unite to observe this day of national remembrance.

The Patriot Day Ceremony is a formal community event hosted by the American Legion Post 124 to honor the lives lost and the sacrifices made on September 11, 2001. This annual gathering serves as a space for public reflection and collective remembrance of the tragic events that reshaped our nation. Attendees will join local public safety officials and members of the Town Council for a structured program of tribute. The ceremony features remarks from community leaders and local representatives who share personal reflections on resilience and national service. The environment remains solemn yet purposeful as the town comes together to acknowledge the lasting impact of that day. This event is open to all community members who wish to participate in a shared experience of gratitude and support for our first responders. Please join us for this meaningful commemoration to stand in unity with your neighbors. Your presence adds strength to our communal memory as we recognize those who serve our town and country. We look forward to welcoming you to this important local tradition of remembrance and reflection.

Discover the profound legacy of Raleigh at the historic Oakwood Cemetery. Spanning seventy-two acres and over one hundred and forty years of history, this park-like setting serves as the final resting place for numerous state and national leaders. We invite you to join our Stroll Through History tours, which take place on the second and fourth Thursday of each month. These complimentary community gatherings offer an informal yet engaging way to explore different sections of the grounds. Each tour is unique, featuring fresh research and captivating stories that bring the past to life. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a regular attendee, you will appreciate the small group environment that allows for interactive dialogue and tailored exploration of local history. It is a wonderful opportunity to learn about the individuals who shaped our region while enjoying a serene walk in nature. Please visit our website to view the full event calendar and plan your visit. We look forward to sharing these fascinating narratives with you as we walk through history together.

Join the City of Raleigh for an enlightening Black History Walking Tour, held every Saturday morning from July 11 through September 12, 2026. This immersive one-hour experience invites residents and visitors alike to uncover the profound narratives that have shaped the capital city. Led by knowledgeable guides, the tour departs from the historic Dr. M. T. Pope House Museum and traverses significant cultural landscapes, including the Third Ward neighborhood and the former Black Wall Street area. Participants will gain exclusive insights into the resilient communities and historic churches that form the foundation of local heritage. This educational journey covers approximately 1.4 miles, with convenient rest stops integrated throughout the route to ensure a comfortable pace for all attendees. Whether you are a history enthusiast or simply looking for an engaging weekend activity, this tour offers a meaningful connection to the past. Tickets are affordably priced at 10 dollars for adults and 6 dollars for children. Spaces fill up quickly, so be sure to secure your registration online today to experience these vital stories firsthand. We look forward to exploring the rich history of Raleigh with you soon.

Discover the rich past of North Carolinas capital city aboard the Historic Raleigh Trolley. This immersive one-hour journey transports guests through the heart of Downtown Raleigh, offering a front-row seat to the landmarks and historic sites that have shaped the community since its founding in 1792. Led by knowledgeable guides, you will uncover fascinating stories about the culture and evolution of this vibrant city. Tours depart every Saturday from March through December, beginning at the iconic Mordecai Historic Park located at 1 Mimosa Street. With four convenient departure times available throughout the day 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 competitively priced at 10 dollars for adults and 6 dollars for youth, making this an accessible outing for residents and tourists alike. Do not miss your chance to experience Raleigh from a unique perspective. Whether you are a history buff or looking for a memorable family activity, these tours offer something for everyone. Book your tickets today by calling 919-996-4364, visiting the Mordecai Historic Park Visitor Center, or purchasing online to reserve your seat.