Haunted Trail 2026

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.

Unlock significant savings with the Walgreens Senior Day program, specifically designed for rewards members aged 55 and older. On the first Tuesday of every month, eligible shoppers can enjoy a twenty percent discount on a wide range of regular priced merchandise both in store and online. This monthly initiative provides a fantastic opportunity for seniors to maximize their household budget while shopping for their favorite essential items. To participate, ensure you are signed up for a free myWalgreens membership. If you prefer shopping from the comfort of home, you can easily apply the promo code SENIOR20 at checkout on the official Walgreens website during the designated promotion window. Please keep in mind that the discount applies to regular priced goods and excludes certain categories such as prescriptions, tobacco, and alcohol. We encourage you to visit your local store or log into your account to review the full list of qualifying products. Mark your calendar today and take full advantage of these recurring monthly savings opportunities. Join the thousands of satisfied shoppers who prioritize their wellness and savings at Walgreens each month.

Are you passionate about the rich heritage and unique stories that define our community? The Chatham County Historical Association invites you to join the Siler City History Club, a vibrant gathering dedicated to preserving the local legacy of Siler City. This engaging program serves as an opportunity for residents to connect, share personal memories, and contribute authentic mementos to our growing historical collection. Whether you have lived here for decades or are a recent arrival eager to learn about your new home, your voice is an essential part of our shared narrative. Our meetings offer a welcoming environment designed for listening, learning, and making new friends in a collaborative setting. We meet every other month to ensure that the stories of our town continue to thrive for future generations. This event is entirely free to the public, and we encourage you to bring a friend along for an hour of meaningful discovery and connection. Come share your experiences and help us document the vibrant spirit of Siler City. We look forward to seeing you there.

Join Hardee's in commemorating a monumental milestone as the brand celebrates its 66th birthday throughout the entire month of September 2026. This special occasion also coincides with National Biscuit Month, providing the perfect excuse for a delicious celebration. To kick off the festivities, Hardee's is thrilled to offer a signature sausage biscuit for only 66 cents. This limited time offer is available during the entire Labor Day weekend, running from September 3 through September 7, 2026. The excitement does not end with the holiday weekend. Hardee's is keeping the party going by extending exclusive deals and weekly offers throughout the rest of September to honor their heritage and appreciation for loyal customers. Whether you are a long time fan or a new visitor, this is a fantastic opportunity to enjoy quality comfort food at an unbeatable price point. We invite you to visit your local Hardee's location to take advantage of these savings and join in the birthday cheer. Mark your calendars, bring your friends and family, and experience the classic flavors that have made Hardee's a breakfast staple for over six decades.

Science TODAY is a live educational series held at the SECU Daily Planet Theater focused on human-carnivore conflict in China. This session examines how people and large predators share the same landscape by analyzing over five hundred reported conflict events across the region. The goal is to identify why these interactions occur and discuss practical strategies for wildlife coexistence. Attendees will hear directly from expert researcher Jiahui Yuan from Tsinghua University and the Biodiversity Lab at the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences. The program includes a presentation of research findings followed by a live interactive question and answer session. You will gain insights into modern conservation challenges and evidence based solutions for managing wildlife habitats near human populations. This event is perfect for students, conservation enthusiasts, and anyone interested in environmental science. The atmosphere is designed to be accessible and engaging for all curiosity levels. Join us at the museum to learn from leading field researchers and participate in a meaningful discussion about the future of our shared ecosystems.

Gather your family and friends for an unforgettable cinematic experience under the stars at Pullen Park. Located at 520 Ashe Avenue in Raleigh, this premier outdoor movie series invites film lovers of all ages to enjoy a night of entertainment in a beautiful park setting. Whether you are a dedicated film buff or just looking for a wonderful way to spend an evening, this monthly event provides the perfect atmosphere to connect with the local community. Join us on the first Tuesday of each month from June through October 2026 for a special screening of Wicked. Please note that start times vary slightly throughout the season based on sunset. While admission to these screenings is entirely free for the public, you can enhance your visit by purchasing popcorn and refreshments at the Pullen Cafe. Please monitor the official Raleigh Parks website for weather-related updates or potential cancellations. We look forward to seeing you there for a magical evening of cinema. Visit our website today to learn more about our summer schedule and additional outdoor events happening across the Triangle.

The Carrboro Farmers Market invites families to participate in the engaging Market Bunch program, held every Wednesday from April through November. This weekly initiative provides a wonderful opportunity for children to learn about sustainability, local agriculture, and healthy eating through hands-on arts and crafts projects. Set in the heart of Carrboro, these sessions are designed to foster curiosity and community spirit while connecting the next generation with local farmers and artisans. Beyond the kids activities, the market offers a vibrant atmosphere featuring goods produced within fifty miles of the town. Whether you are browsing for fresh seasonal produce, attending special thematic events like Tomato Day, or participating in the annual vendor costume contest, there is always something unique to discover. We encourage parents to bring their children to explore these educational offerings and enjoy the local bounty in a family-friendly setting. Visit the Carrboro Town Commons to experience our community atmosphere firsthand. We look forward to seeing you there to support our local growers and enjoy the weekly festivities with your family. Check our website or sign up for the weekly newsletter for complete event details.

Experience an evening of inspiration at the Eno Arts Mill in Hillsborough, a vibrant hub managed by the Orange County Arts Commission. On September 4 from 6 to 9 p.m., join us for a special First Friday celebration featuring the captivating Colors of Soul exhibit, curated by the Inter-Latin American Artist Collective. This event brings together an impressive lineup of talented local creators to share their vision with the community. The evening promises a dynamic blend of visual arts, live musical performances, and poetic expressions. Beyond the main exhibit, attendees can explore open artist studios and discover the diverse range of creative workshops available, spanning from fiber arts to figure drawing. It is the perfect opportunity to engage with local culture and support regional artists in a unique historic setting. We invite everyone to visit the Eno Arts Mill for this free, energetic gathering. Whether you are an art enthusiast or looking for a meaningful outing, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Please visit the official website to learn more and secure your spot today.

Experience the vibrant energy of the PLAYlist Concert Series at Durham Central Park in 2026. This highly anticipated event brings the community together for an unforgettable outdoor musical journey, featuring the Africa Unplugged showcase. Set against the beautiful backdrop of downtown Durham, these concerts provide the perfect atmosphere for music lovers to enjoy high-quality performances in a relaxed, welcoming environment. Whether you are a local resident or visiting the Triangle, this series offers a fantastic way to celebrate culture through rhythm and sound. The event takes place on the first Friday of each month from May through October, with a special scheduling adjustment in July. Admission is entirely free, making it an accessible experience for everyone. Attendees are encouraged to bring blankets or lawn chairs to enjoy the lawn seating. Local food trucks and craft beer vendors will be available on-site to satisfy your cravings while you enjoy the show. Parking is complimentary, and the venue is fully wheelchair accessible. Gather your friends and family for an evening of live entertainment under the stars. Check the official website today to view the full lineup and plan your visit.

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.

Science TODAY is a live educational series held at the SECU Daily Planet Theater focused on human-carnivore conflict in China. This session examines how people and large predators share the same landscape by analyzing over five hundred reported conflict events across the region. The goal is to identify why these interactions occur and discuss practical strategies for wildlife coexistence. Attendees will hear directly from expert researcher Jiahui Yuan from Tsinghua University and the Biodiversity Lab at the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences. The program includes a presentation of research findings followed by a live interactive question and answer session. You will gain insights into modern conservation challenges and evidence based solutions for managing wildlife habitats near human populations. This event is perfect for students, conservation enthusiasts, and anyone interested in environmental science. The atmosphere is designed to be accessible and engaging for all curiosity levels. Join us at the museum to learn from leading field researchers and participate in a meaningful discussion about the future of our shared ecosystems.

Join a vibrant community of strategy lovers at the Durham Chess Enthusiasts weekly gathering held every Tuesday at Der Nachbar Bottleshop and Taps. Whether you are a seasoned grandmaster or a curious beginner eager to learn the ropes, this event offers the perfect environment to sharpen your skills while enjoying a relaxed atmosphere. The venue features an excellent selection of craft beers, fine wines, and non-alcoholic beverages to keep you refreshed during your matches. All players are welcome to participate in this free weekly event, though please note that an adult must accompany any participants under the age of eighteen. The setting is inclusive and social, allowing you to meet new friends while engaging in friendly competition on the board. You are welcome to bring your own snacks or enjoy local food truck offerings if available on-site during your visit. Do not miss this opportunity to foster your love for the game and connect with local chess players in the heart of Durham. Head over to 4916 Hillsborough Road this Tuesday from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. to get in on the action. We look forward to seeing you there for an evening of tactical play and great company.

Get ready to move with KatMoves Travelling Studio. We are thrilled to invite the community to join our energetic and inclusive line dancing classes held every Tuesday evening in Hillsborough, North Carolina. Whether you are a seasoned dancer or someone who has never stepped onto a dance floor, these sessions are designed for everyone. Our instructor provides easy to follow guidance on footwork and patterns, ensuring that every participant feels confident while having a great time. These classes foster a relaxed atmosphere focused entirely on movement and joy. We meet weekly at the Snow Approach Foundation located on East King Street. While these sessions are completely free, we do maintain an optional tip jar on site. A portion of these generous donations supports the Snow Approach Foundation, an organization dedicated to improving the quality of life for individuals living with brain conditions. No RSVP is required to attend these sessions, so simply bring your comfortable shoes and your enthusiasm for dance. We look forward to seeing you there for an hour of rhythm, community, and fun.

The Moonlight Bat Stained Glass Experience is a hands-on workshop where participants craft their own decorative stained glass bat. This session provides a practical introduction to glass art techniques in a supportive studio environment. During this guided experience, you will learn how to foil, assemble, and solder glass components to create a finished piece. Our professional instructor will demonstrate each step, ensuring you master the necessary tools and safety protocols. Whether you are a beginner or have some crafting background, you will receive personalized assistance to complete your project. Since completion speeds vary, the studio provides additional time at no extra cost to ensure every participant finishes their artwork. This workshop is designed for anyone interested in exploring glass crafts. No prior experience is required, making it an excellent opportunity to learn a new skill or enjoy a creative afternoon. The atmosphere is focused and collaborative, allowing you to work at your own pace. If you are looking for a unique, skill-based project, join us to create your own custom stained glass bat to display at home.

The Midnight Raven Stained Glass Experience is a hands-on workshop where participants learn to create custom stained glass art. This guided session teaches the fundamental techniques of foiling, assembling, and soldering glass pieces in a supportive studio environment. During the workshop, you will work directly with professional tools and glass materials. Our instructor provides step by step guidance to ensure you complete your unique project with confidence. While individual pacing varies, the studio offers complimentary additional time to guarantee every guest finishes their artwork regardless of complexity. This structured approach allows you to focus on developing new skills and crafting a finished piece to take home. This event is perfect for beginners and those curious about the stained glass process. With class sizes strictly limited to ten participants, you receive personalized attention throughout the session. The atmosphere is focused yet relaxed, fostering a creative space for all skill levels. If you are looking to learn a hands-on craft or simply want a productive creative outlet, register today to secure your seat for this unique artistic 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 vibrant spirit of sustainable agriculture at Raleigh City Farm, located in the heart of downtown at 800 North Blount Street. Starting April 15, 2026, we invite you to join our weekly Pay What You Can farm stand held every Wednesday from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. This unique initiative allows you to purchase fresh, locally grown produce while supporting our mission to connect the community to regenerative farming practices. We believe everyone deserves access to healthy food, and our sliding scale model ensures that farm-fresh nutrition remains accessible to all. After browsing the farm stand, we encourage you to stay for our Wine and Weeds gathering from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. This is a fantastic opportunity to steward our beautiful urban site, learn about native plant species, and cultivate meaningful connections with fellow neighbors. Enjoy a refreshing beverage provided by our local partners while you contribute to the growth of our space. We look forward to welcoming you to the farm. Please visit our website to sign up for sessions and secure your spot today.

Living in Alignment is an outdoor workshop that combines yoga, meditation, and guided journaling to help participants gain clarity and focus. This session offers a structured space to explore personal themes through movement and intentional reflection in a park setting. Participants will engage in an all-levels yoga practice designed to build awareness and prepare the body for stillness. Throughout the evening, the instructor will lead guided meditation sessions and provide specific prompts for journaling. This cycle of movement and writing allows you to translate physical exploration into actionable insights. The practice focuses on noticing internal patterns and documenting your thoughts in real time. This event is open to everyone regardless of experience level. It provides a peaceful atmosphere for those seeking a balanced approach to mindfulness and self-reflection. Please arrive prepared with a yoga mat, a water bottle, a journal, a pen, and insect repellent. We invite you to join us for this unique evening of movement and inquiry. Secure your spot today to experience this intentional practice and leave feeling grounded and refreshed.

Living in Alignment is an outdoor workshop that combines yoga, meditation, and guided journaling to help participants gain clarity and focus. This session offers a structured space to explore personal themes through movement and intentional reflection in a park setting. Participants will engage in an all-levels yoga practice designed to build awareness and prepare the body for stillness. Throughout the evening, the instructor will lead guided meditation sessions and provide specific prompts for journaling. This cycle of movement and writing allows you to translate physical exploration into actionable insights. The practice focuses on noticing internal patterns and documenting your thoughts in real time. This event is open to everyone regardless of experience level. It provides a peaceful atmosphere for those seeking a balanced approach to mindfulness and self-reflection. Please arrive prepared with a yoga mat, a water bottle, a journal, a pen, and insect repellent. We invite you to join us for this unique evening of movement and inquiry. Secure your spot today to experience this intentional practice and leave feeling grounded and refreshed.