Friday Favorites: Mendelssohn Violin Concerto

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.

The North Carolina Symphony opens its new season with a powerful performance featuring Rachmaninoff Piano Concerto No. 3. This concert showcases a program of orchestral masterworks designed to highlight the full range and dynamic capability of the ensemble in an evening of high-level classical music. Under the direction of conductor Carlos Miguel Prieto, the symphony performs Debussy Prelude to the Afternoon of a Faun and Stravinsky Petrouchka. The highlight of the program features pianist Boris Giltburg performing the technically demanding Rachmaninoff concerto. These selections offer a diverse journey through impressionist atmosphere, romantic intensity, and rhythmic complexity, providing a complete symphonic experience. This event is tailored for classical music enthusiasts and those seeking an evening of professional orchestral performance. Attendees should note that all patrons, regardless of age, must hold a ticket and remain seated throughout the concert. Children aged two and under are not permitted to attend. Join us at the concert hall for an impressive start to the symphonic season. Secure your tickets now to experience this world-class performance firsthand and enjoy an evening of exceptional artistry with the North Carolina Symphony.

The Music of Pink Floyd with The Machine is a live concert collaboration between the North Carolina Symphony and the renowned tribute band The Machine. This event brings together the precision of a full orchestra and the raw intensity of a rock band to perform the legendary catalog of Pink Floyd. Attendees will hear iconic tracks reimagined with orchestral arrangements. The performance features conductor Sophie Mok leading the symphony alongside The Machine. The production includes a professional light show designed to complement the music and enhance the auditory experience. The program focuses on recreating the atmosphere and complexity of classic Pink Floyd albums. This concert is ideal for longtime fans of progressive rock and symphonic music lovers. The atmosphere will be energetic, immersive, and designed for a seated concert environment. Whether you are revisiting favorite hits or discovering this iconic sound for the first time, this performance offers a unique fusion of genres. Tickets are available now for this one time musical presentation. Secure your seats early to ensure a spot for this expansive sonic experience.

The North Carolina Symphony presents a classical evening featuring Haydn Symphony Number 49, the Mendelssohn Violin Concerto, and Schumann Symphony Number 2. This performance showcases the artistry of conductor Carlos Miguel Prieto and violinist Justin Bruns at the Meymandi Concert Hall. The event provides an immersive look at foundational classical works performed by a professional ensemble. Attendees are invited to attend Concert Insights, a free pre-concert session starting at 7 PM. This 30-minute experience features live chamber music performed by symphony members and exclusive commentary from Carlos Miguel Prieto. You will gain deeper musical context and hear directly from the guest artists before the main performance begins. This concert is designed for classical music enthusiasts who value high-level orchestral execution. Arriving early helps you navigate parking and settle into the venue comfortably. Please note that every guest requires a ticket regardless of age. We ask that all patrons be prepared to remain seated quietly throughout the entire performance to ensure the best experience for everyone in the hall. Join us for a memorable night of orchestral excellence.

Experience the vibrant energy of the Hopscotch Music Festival, returning to Raleigh from September 10 to 12, 2026. This premier cultural event showcases over 100 bands performing across multiple venues, including the iconic main stages at Moore Square and City Plaza. Whether you are a dedicated music enthusiast or a casual listener, the festival offers a diverse lineup that highlights the best in local and national talent through high-energy concerts and intimate club shows. Beyond the headline performances, guests can enjoy an extensive series of free day parties hosted at various locations throughout the city. These daytime celebrations provide a fantastic opportunity to discover new music and immerse yourself in the creative spirit of the Triangle community. With no pass required for most of these auxiliary events, everyone is invited to participate in the festivities. We encourage all attendees to support the local music scene and enjoy the unique performances scheduled throughout the weekend. Visit our official website to view the complete event lineup, check venue schedules, and secure your tickets for the main festival stages today.

Experience the vibrant energy of live entertainment at the Sunset Music Series hosted at Waverly Place in Cary, North Carolina. This highly anticipated event brings the community together for unforgettable evenings featuring high-energy performances by talented bands. Whether you are looking to unwind after a productive workday or enjoy a lively social outing with friends and family, our concert series provides the perfect backdrop for a relaxing mid-week escape under the open sky. The series runs throughout the month of September, offering guests a wonderful atmosphere to enjoy great music from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. While you take in the sounds of The Ray Band, you can enjoy a variety of wine and beer options available for purchase on-site. Please note that for the comfort and safety of all guests, outside alcohol and coolers are not permitted at the venue. We invite you to join us for these free community celebrations and discover why our outdoor music series is a local favorite. Visit the Waverly Place website today to view the full event schedule and plan your next evening out with us.

Experience an unforgettable month of music as Duke Arts returns to the American Tobacco Campus throughout September 2026. This vibrant concert series, expertly curated by Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Tift Merritt, celebrates the enduring legacy of women who have shaped the world through powerful storytelling and artistic influence. Each Wednesday evening, the amphitheater beneath the iconic Lucky Strike water tower comes alive with soulful performances that honor this rich musical lineage. These performances are completely free to the public, inviting neighbors and music lovers to enjoy high-quality entertainment in a beautiful outdoor setting. Whether you are a dedicated fan of singer-songwriters or simply looking for a relaxing way to spend a Wednesday night, this series offers something for everyone. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs to settle in comfortably for the show. Make your way to 318 Blackwell Street in Durham to participate in this exceptional community event. For more information on the featured artists and to plan your visit, please head over to the official website today.