Gary Pullen - Fridays in The Commons

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 African American Cultural Festival of Raleigh and Wake County is an annual event dedicated to uniting and educating the community through the arts. Held in downtown Raleigh on September 5 to 6, 2026, it serves as a platform to celebrate the heritage and creativity of African American culture. Attendees can explore a wide variety of interactive experiences including live music, theater performances, and dance showcases. The event highlights both local and national talent while hosting numerous visual artists. Guests will also find an array of craft vendors, retail merchants, and diverse food options to enjoy throughout the weekend. This family friendly festival is free and open to the public, making it an accessible destination for visitors from across the country. The atmosphere is vibrant, engaging, and designed to foster connection among diverse groups of people. Whether you are a local resident or visiting from out of town, this celebration offers a unique opportunity to engage with meaningful cultural expressions. Mark your calendars for Labor Day weekend to join this significant community experience and participate in the festivities.

The 17th Annual African American Cultural Festival of Raleigh and Wake County is a community celebration dedicated to honoring African American culture through the arts. Held in downtown Raleigh during Labor Day weekend on September 5 and 6, 2026, the event aims to unite and educate a diverse audience through meaningful cultural expression. Attendees can experience a wide range of performances and exhibits highlighting visual arts, music, theater, and dance. The festival features a dynamic lineup of both local and national talent. Visitors will also find an extensive collection of craft, merchant, and food vendors providing a variety of shopping and dining options throughout the event grounds. This family friendly festival is free and accessible to all members of the public, making it an ideal destination for visitors traveling from across the country. The atmosphere is interactive, inclusive, and designed to foster community engagement. Whether you are interested in artistic discovery or simply looking to enjoy a vibrant cultural experience, this festival offers something for everyone. Join us in downtown Raleigh for this milestone celebration and become a part of the experience.

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.

The African American Cultural Festival of Raleigh and Wake County is an annual event dedicated to uniting and educating the community through the arts. Held in downtown Raleigh on September 5 to 6, 2026, it serves as a platform to celebrate the heritage and creativity of African American culture. Attendees can explore a wide variety of interactive experiences including live music, theater performances, and dance showcases. The event highlights both local and national talent while hosting numerous visual artists. Guests will also find an array of craft vendors, retail merchants, and diverse food options to enjoy throughout the weekend. This family friendly festival is free and open to the public, making it an accessible destination for visitors from across the country. The atmosphere is vibrant, engaging, and designed to foster connection among diverse groups of people. Whether you are a local resident or visiting from out of town, this celebration offers a unique opportunity to engage with meaningful cultural expressions. Mark your calendars for Labor Day weekend to join this significant community experience and participate in the festivities.

The 17th Annual African American Cultural Festival of Raleigh and Wake County is a community celebration dedicated to honoring African American culture through the arts. Held in downtown Raleigh during Labor Day weekend on September 5 and 6, 2026, the event aims to unite and educate a diverse audience through meaningful cultural expression. Attendees can experience a wide range of performances and exhibits highlighting visual arts, music, theater, and dance. The festival features a dynamic lineup of both local and national talent. Visitors will also find an extensive collection of craft, merchant, and food vendors providing a variety of shopping and dining options throughout the event grounds. This family friendly festival is free and accessible to all members of the public, making it an ideal destination for visitors traveling from across the country. The atmosphere is interactive, inclusive, and designed to foster community engagement. Whether you are interested in artistic discovery or simply looking to enjoy a vibrant cultural experience, this festival offers something for everyone. Join us in downtown Raleigh for this milestone celebration and become a part of the experience.

Dust off your boots and get ready to hit the dance floor at Motorco in Durham on Monday, September 7, 2026. Whether you are a seasoned pro or a complete beginner, this free country line dancing event is the perfect way to spend your evening. We are thrilled to feature expert guidance from Dr. Emma Armstrong-Carter, who will be on hand to lead the session and teach you all the best moves to keep you in sync with the rhythm. This inclusive event welcomes dancers of all ages and skill levels to participate in an evening of high energy and community fun. There is no special footwear required, so simply show up in whatever makes you feel comfortable and ready to move. This is a fantastic opportunity to socialize, learn a new skill, and enjoy a vibrant atmosphere in the heart of the Triangle. We encourage you to invite your friends and family for an unforgettable night of music and movement. Space is limited, so arrive early to secure your spot on the floor and join the festivities.

The African American Cultural Festival of Raleigh and Wake County is an annual event dedicated to uniting and educating the community through the arts. Held in downtown Raleigh on September 5 to 6, 2026, it serves as a platform to celebrate the heritage and creativity of African American culture. Attendees can explore a wide variety of interactive experiences including live music, theater performances, and dance showcases. The event highlights both local and national talent while hosting numerous visual artists. Guests will also find an array of craft vendors, retail merchants, and diverse food options to enjoy throughout the weekend. This family friendly festival is free and open to the public, making it an accessible destination for visitors from across the country. The atmosphere is vibrant, engaging, and designed to foster connection among diverse groups of people. Whether you are a local resident or visiting from out of town, this celebration offers a unique opportunity to engage with meaningful cultural expressions. Mark your calendars for Labor Day weekend to join this significant community experience and participate in the festivities.

The 17th Annual African American Cultural Festival of Raleigh and Wake County is a community celebration dedicated to honoring African American culture through the arts. Held in downtown Raleigh during Labor Day weekend on September 5 and 6, 2026, the event aims to unite and educate a diverse audience through meaningful cultural expression. Attendees can experience a wide range of performances and exhibits highlighting visual arts, music, theater, and dance. The festival features a dynamic lineup of both local and national talent. Visitors will also find an extensive collection of craft, merchant, and food vendors providing a variety of shopping and dining options throughout the event grounds. This family friendly festival is free and accessible to all members of the public, making it an ideal destination for visitors traveling from across the country. The atmosphere is interactive, inclusive, and designed to foster community engagement. Whether you are interested in artistic discovery or simply looking to enjoy a vibrant cultural experience, this festival offers something for everyone. Join us in downtown Raleigh for this milestone celebration and become a part of the experience.

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.

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.

The African American Cultural Festival of Raleigh and Wake County is an annual event dedicated to uniting and educating the community through the arts. Held in downtown Raleigh on September 5 to 6, 2026, it serves as a platform to celebrate the heritage and creativity of African American culture. Attendees can explore a wide variety of interactive experiences including live music, theater performances, and dance showcases. The event highlights both local and national talent while hosting numerous visual artists. Guests will also find an array of craft vendors, retail merchants, and diverse food options to enjoy throughout the weekend. This family friendly festival is free and open to the public, making it an accessible destination for visitors from across the country. The atmosphere is vibrant, engaging, and designed to foster connection among diverse groups of people. Whether you are a local resident or visiting from out of town, this celebration offers a unique opportunity to engage with meaningful cultural expressions. Mark your calendars for Labor Day weekend to join this significant community experience and participate in the festivities.

The 17th Annual African American Cultural Festival of Raleigh and Wake County is a community celebration dedicated to honoring African American culture through the arts. Held in downtown Raleigh during Labor Day weekend on September 5 and 6, 2026, the event aims to unite and educate a diverse audience through meaningful cultural expression. Attendees can experience a wide range of performances and exhibits highlighting visual arts, music, theater, and dance. The festival features a dynamic lineup of both local and national talent. Visitors will also find an extensive collection of craft, merchant, and food vendors providing a variety of shopping and dining options throughout the event grounds. This family friendly festival is free and accessible to all members of the public, making it an ideal destination for visitors traveling from across the country. The atmosphere is interactive, inclusive, and designed to foster community engagement. Whether you are interested in artistic discovery or simply looking to enjoy a vibrant cultural experience, this festival offers something for everyone. Join us in downtown Raleigh for this milestone celebration and become a part of the experience.

This workshop is an educational session focused on the care and blooming requirements of Schlumbergera plants. The event is designed to help plant owners troubleshoot common issues and improve the health of their holiday cacti. During this session, you will learn to distinguish between Thanksgiving and Christmas cacti. Our experts will debunk common care myths and provide actionable advice to help your plant thrive. You will gain a clear understanding of the specific environmental factors required to encourage successful blooming. We will review light, water, and soil requirements to ensure your plant receives exactly what it needs throughout the year. This class is perfect for anyone struggling with a plant that has not bloomed in years or owners curious about seasonal care routines. We encourage you to bring your own plant for personalized guidance and feel free to bring a beverage of your choice to enjoy during the instruction. Space is limited, so please sign up today to reserve your spot and bring your holiday cactus back to life with confidence.

The Stained Glass Ghost Workshop is a hands-on creative session where you will craft your own custom glass ghost art piece from scratch. This workshop introduces participants to the essential techniques of stained glass fabrication in a supportive studio environment. Throughout the session you will learn how to prepare glass pieces using copper foil, assemble your design, and apply solder to complete your project. Our professional instructor provides step by step guidance through each phase of the process to ensure you gain practical skills while working with high quality materials. All necessary tools and safety equipment are provided on site. This event is perfect for beginners and craft enthusiasts who want to learn a new skill without needing any prior stained glass experience. The atmosphere is social and focused on creative expression, making it a great way to spend an afternoon. Space is limited to ensure personalized instruction for every attendee. Reserve your spot today to participate in this unique craft experience and take home a finished piece of art that you created yourself.

Empire of the Sun is bringing their Ask That God: Afterlife tour to North American stages, offering fans a signature blend of electronic pop music. The tour highlights the duo’s latest artistic direction while maintaining the high-energy sound that launched their career. Attendees can expect an immersive concert experience featuring the band members Luke Steele and Nick Littlemore. The performances are defined by elaborate stage production, including choreographed dancers and advanced visual elements. You will hear a mix of classic dance hits alongside new material, all supported by their hallmark adrenalized synths and polished electro beats. This tour serves as a testament to their long-standing reputation for theatrical showmanship. This event is designed for fans of modern electronic music and those who appreciate large-scale live productions. The atmosphere is vibrant and designed to be an active, high-energy experience. Whether you have followed the duo since their 2008 debut or are new to their sound, this show offers a compelling look at their evolving artistic vision. Secure your tickets early to experience this unique tour in person.

This concert features a triple bill of underground extreme metal bands performing at Kings. The event showcases a night of heavy music ranging from doom and sludge to death metal, providing a raw and intense live music experience for fans of the genre. The lineup includes Miami based doom and sludge outfit Crud, known for their crushing low frequency distortion and heavy sound. They are joined by Raleigh death metal favorites Pathogenesis, who bring a high level of technical proficiency to the stage. Rounding out the bill is the Richmond based brutal gore death metal act Excrementia, a new project featuring experienced members from bands such as Disrotter, Vigil, and Hellion Child. This show is tailored for followers of the extreme metal scene who appreciate high volume and aggressive performance styles. The atmosphere promises to be intense and focused on heavy riffing. If you enjoy sludge, doom, or death metal, this performance offers a concentrated look at the regional underground scene. Secure your spot at Kings to witness these three distinct acts perform back to back in a single evening of heavy music.

The Capital City Gun and Knife Show is a premier regional marketplace dedicated to the trade and sale of firearms, ammunition, and cutlery. This recurring event brings together collectors, hobbyists, and industry professionals to facilitate secure transactions and networking within the sporting goods community. Guests can explore a wide variety of vendor booths showcasing new and vintage equipment. You will find an extensive inventory ranging from modern hunting gear and self defense tools to rare antique knives and tactical accessories. On site experts are available to provide product information and offer professional appraisals for those looking to trade or sell their items. Whether you are a dedicated firearms enthusiast, an outdoorsman, or a collector, this event offers a comprehensive experience tailored to your interests. The atmosphere is professional, safe, and focused on community engagement. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early to browse the full selection of vendors before inventory sells out. Please ensure that all local and state regulations are followed when transporting items to the venue. We invite you to join us for an organized and efficient day of commerce and discovery.

The African American Cultural Festival of Raleigh and Wake County is an annual event dedicated to uniting and educating the community through the arts. Held in downtown Raleigh on September 5 to 6, 2026, it serves as a platform to celebrate the heritage and creativity of African American culture. Attendees can explore a wide variety of interactive experiences including live music, theater performances, and dance showcases. The event highlights both local and national talent while hosting numerous visual artists. Guests will also find an array of craft vendors, retail merchants, and diverse food options to enjoy throughout the weekend. This family friendly festival is free and open to the public, making it an accessible destination for visitors from across the country. The atmosphere is vibrant, engaging, and designed to foster connection among diverse groups of people. Whether you are a local resident or visiting from out of town, this celebration offers a unique opportunity to engage with meaningful cultural expressions. Mark your calendars for Labor Day weekend to join this significant community experience and participate in the festivities.

The Raleigh Game and Geek Expo 2026 is a premier gathering for gaming enthusiasts and pop culture fans. This annual event provides a dedicated space for community members to celebrate their shared interests and explore the latest in industry innovation. Attendees can participate in gaming tournaments or enjoy open play areas featuring retro consoles, modern systems, PCs, and tabletop games. The schedule includes expert panel discussions, live music, and themed stage activities throughout the weekend. A highlight of the experience is the time machine lounge, which offers an immersive journey into the culture and fashion of the eighties and nineties. Guests also have the chance to meet celebrities and industry professionals who helped shape the gaming and geek landscapes. This event is designed for gamers of all experience levels seeking connection and entertainment. Whether you are looking to compete, learn from industry leaders, or discover new trends, this expo offers a welcoming environment for everyone. Join us for a weekend of celebration and camaraderie as we bring the community together to level up the fun.