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CHILL ACT North Carolina Special Needs & Homeschool Expo is a free community event bringing families together with local providers, educators, therapists, community organizations, and resources supporting children with autism, special needs, and homeschool families. Join us on Saturday, August 29, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM at the Durham Convention Center. Families can explore valuable local resources, meet therapy and educational providers, and enjoy a welcoming day filled with activities for children. Event highlights include: • Free developmental & pre-autism screenings • Therapy, education & community resources • Balloon art • Face painting • Bounce house • Petting zoo • Art exhibition featuring neurodiverse children • Local vendors and family resources Admission is FREE for families. Register for free at www.chillactexpo.com Come connect, learn, explore resources, and enjoy a fun-filled afternoon with the North Carolina special needs and homeschool community.

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.

This event is a tribute concert celebrating the definitive rock, metal, emo, and pop punk anthems of the 2000s. It features live musical performances dedicated to the sounds that defined a generation of music listeners. Attendees will experience a night of high energy nostalgia through live sets by Toxic, Forever This Way, and Parallel Lives. The bands will perform popular hard rock, metal, and emo tracks that shaped the decade. This event is designed for fans of 2000s alternative culture who want to relive the energy of their favorite scene. The atmosphere will be focused on live music, community, and shared appreciation for the era. Expect a professional stage production and a fast paced setlist. This is an ideal night out for anyone looking to sing along to classic hits in a live venue environment. Secure your tickets in advance to guarantee entry to this celebration of music history. Join us for a full night of performances that capture the intensity and spirit of the 2000s rock and emo scene.

Guardians of the Jukebox is an elite live music tribute show dedicated to the iconic pop, rock, and new wave hits of the 1980s. This professional ensemble delivers a high-energy performance that recreates the authentic sound and visual spirit of the MTV era for audiences seeking a nostalgic and immersive concert experience. The band features a lineup of world-class musicians, including Grammy-nominated recording artists from renowned groups like Fozzy and Stuck Mojo. Attendees can expect a fast-paced setlist featuring global chart-toppers and beloved deep cuts from the most influential decade in music history. The production focuses on precise technical execution and genuine musical appreciation to ensure a premium listening experience. This event is ideal for music lovers who appreciate professional production and fans of eighties culture. The atmosphere is vibrant and designed to encourage participation, making it a perfect night out for groups and music enthusiasts alike. Secure your tickets soon to ensure your spot at this celebration of musical history. Join us for an unforgettable evening dedicated to the best tracks of a generation.

Night of Poe is an immersive theatrical event that brings the classic tales of Edgar Allan Poe to life through performance and sound. Guests spend 90 minutes exploring a curated narrative world that blends storytelling with music to capture the mystery of Poe’s most famous works. Attendees will experience dramatic re-tellings of Poe stories performed by professional actors and musicians. The program features a gothic soundscape composed by Danny Elfman to enhance the atmosphere. Each ticket includes a tasting menu of four themed cocktails designed to complement the evening’s dark aesthetic. These elements combine to create a multi-sensory experience that prioritizes narrative depth and high-quality production. This event is designed for literature enthusiasts, fans of gothic theater, and anyone looking for a sophisticated evening of immersive entertainment. The environment is refined and meticulously crafted to ensure a memorable visit. We invite you to join us for this unique exploration of literary history. Please book your tickets in advance to secure your place in this limited engagement as spaces for this hauntingly elegant journey fill up quickly.

Summer Showcase 2026 is an informal performance event where dance students demonstrate their progress and skills in a low pressure environment. This event provides a dedicated space for students to gain stage experience while sharing their recent accomplishments with friends and family members. Attendees will watch a variety of dance routines featuring creative choreography, engaging music, and fun stage props. Each performance is designed to celebrate the effort students have put into their training throughout the summer season. The program focuses on building confidence and stage presence in a supportive setting. This showcase is perfectly suited for parents, family, and supporters who want to celebrate the growth of our dancers. The atmosphere is relaxed, joyful, and centered entirely on the student experience rather than formal competition. We invite everyone to join us for an afternoon of creativity and community spirit. Please plan to arrive early to find seating and settle in before the performances begin. We look forward to seeing you there to cheer on our talented group of students as they take the stage.

Madonna-Rama is a themed birthday dance party dedicated to the music and legacy of Madonna. Hosted at Bitter Social, this event invites fans to celebrate the Queen of Pop with an evening featuring her entire discography from early hits to modern classics. It is an opportunity for fans to come together and appreciate her influence on music and pop culture. Attendees can expect a dedicated dance floor experience curated by Gay Agenda. The evening includes a costume contest where participants are encouraged to dress as their favorite Madonna era for a chance to win prizes. Winners will be announced at 9:30 pm. Food service remains available until 9:30 pm for those looking to dine while enjoying the music. Guests should locate the Centro QR code at the bar upon arrival to access event information. This event is designed for Madonna enthusiasts looking for an energetic social environment. Whether you are a lifelong fan or a casual listener, you are invited to strike a pose and enjoy a night of iconic music. Join us at Bitter Social for this high energy tribute.

Mane Attraction Burlesque presents a joint birthday showcase featuring co-producers Summer Flings and ALVARA. This live stage production highlights a curated selection of local burlesque talent in an intimate and professional performance setting. The event showcases a diverse lineup of performers including Shimmy Diosa, Babylon Mystere, Garnet Starlet, Iridessa, Ephemera, Iris Wilde, and Roxanne DiVine. Attendees can expect a series of choreographed acts that display artistic movement, costume design, and theatrical storytelling. The show focuses on technical skill and stage presence to provide a high-quality viewing experience for all audience members. This production is designed for fans of live performance art and those looking to celebrate the birthday of the two producers. The atmosphere is intended to be energetic and engaging, providing a welcoming environment for both newcomers to burlesque and longtime enthusiasts. If you are interested in supporting local artists and experiencing a dynamic evening of professional burlesque, this event is well suited for you. Please secure your attendance early to ensure availability and enjoy this featured performance event.

Taco and Margarita Fest 2026 is an immersive culinary experience celebrating premium tequila and diverse street food. Presented by Dulce Vida Tequila and Topo Chico Hard Seltzer, this annual event invites guests to enjoy a curated bar crawl and taco tasting journey throughout the venue. Doors open at 12:00 PM for a full day of festivities. Attendees can explore five dedicated taco stands and multiple specialty margarita bars using a provided passport. The event features tequila sampling sessions, live entertainment, and various interactive photo opportunities. Participants also receive party favors and have the chance to win prizes through scheduled giveaways throughout the afternoon. This event is designed for food enthusiasts, tequila lovers, and anyone seeking a high energy social atmosphere. Whether you are visiting for the gourmet taco pairings or the festive community vibe, the festival offers something for every attendee. General admission includes three tacos, a tasting passport, and full access to all entertainment and activities. Do not miss this opportunity to participate in one of the year most anticipated local food and beverage celebrations. Secure your spot now for a memorable day.

Bop To The Top is an annual vertical stair climb challenge held at a premier downtown skyscraper. Participants race up the building stairs to reach the rooftop finish line while raising funds for local community development programs. This event combines physical endurance with a shared goal of supporting charitable initiatives in our city. Climbers experience a unique route that spans dozens of floors of intense stairwell action. Each level is marked with progress indicators to keep participants motivated during their ascent. Support stations are located at intervals throughout the climb to provide water and basic assistance. At the summit, climbers are greeted with panoramic city views and a celebration area featuring refreshments and recovery resources for all athletes. This event is open to fitness enthusiasts, amateur athletes, and anyone seeking a personal physical challenge. The atmosphere is encouraging and focused on collective achievement rather than just competitive speed. Whether you are aiming for a personal best or simply want to complete the course, you belong here. Register today to secure your starting heat and join us for this rewarding climb to the rooftop.

Madonna-Rama is a themed birthday dance party dedicated to the music and legacy of Madonna. Hosted at Bitter Social, this event invites fans to celebrate the Queen of Pop with an evening featuring her entire discography from early hits to modern classics. It is an opportunity for fans to come together and appreciate her influence on music and pop culture. Attendees can expect a dedicated dance floor experience curated by Gay Agenda. The evening includes a costume contest where participants are encouraged to dress as their favorite Madonna era for a chance to win prizes. Winners will be announced at 9:30 pm. Food service remains available until 9:30 pm for those looking to dine while enjoying the music. Guests should locate the Centro QR code at the bar upon arrival to access event information. This event is designed for Madonna enthusiasts looking for an energetic social environment. Whether you are a lifelong fan or a casual listener, you are invited to strike a pose and enjoy a night of iconic music. Join us at Bitter Social for this high energy tribute.