George Lopez

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.

Free YO Mind is an adult open mic event hosted by the Raleigh Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. This community gathering provides a platform for artistic expression and focuses on bringing people together through live performance in a supportive environment. The event is open to the public and serves as a space for creativity and connection. Attendees can expect an evening of diverse performances including poetry, spoken word, music, comedy, and singing. Local talent will take the stage to share their original work with the audience. This event highlights various creative arts and offers a dedicated stage for community members to showcase their skills in an engaging, live setting. This event is perfect for those who appreciate local art or want to share their own talent in a welcoming space. The atmosphere is professional, encouraging, and focused on community growth. Whether you participate as a performer or join as a supportive audience member, your presence contributes to the energy of the night. Please join us for this opportunity to celebrate authentic expression and support our local performers.

This event features a stand-up comedy performance by Jessie Jetski Johnson, a rising talent from Phoenix now based in Los Angeles. She delivers a high-energy show that draws on her background as a professional musician and her current success in the national comedy circuit. Attendees will experience an evening of sharp observational humor and authentic storytelling from one of the most recognizable voices in podcasting today. Jessie is currently a paid regular at the World Famous Comedy Store and performs frequently at the Comedy Mothership. As a core cast member on the Kill Tony and Bad Friends podcasts, she has built a reputation for quick wit and engaging stage presence. She has recently toured alongside major names like Anthony Jeselnik, bringing a polished and professional act to stages across the country. Whether you follow her podcast work or enjoy traditional stand-up, this show offers a chance to see her live in an intimate setting. Grab your tickets now to catch this rising star before she heads to the next city on her nationwide tour.

Amber Wallin presents an evening of comedy, storytelling, and personality-driven performance. This event showcases the LA-based comedian known for her unique perspective on parenting, lifestyle, and character work, offering a live experience for fans of her viral social media content. Attendees will get to see the humor behind her popular Toddler Grievances series and her signature wig-based character acts in person. Beyond her digital presence, Wallin brings her seasoned stand-up background from venues like The Comedy Store and The Second City to the stage. She will also draw on her experience as a host for The Moth to share engaging anecdotes and relatable stories. This show is designed for those who enjoy observational humor, sharp wit, and authentic storytelling. It is an ideal outing for comedy enthusiasts and followers of her podcast who appreciate high-energy performances. Whether you are a long-time viewer or new to her work, this event provides an intimate look at a versatile entertainer. Tickets are available now for those looking to experience an evening of laughter and sharp, modern comedy from one of the most recognizable voices in digital entertainment.