Holly Springs Pride Festival

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.

The Cozy Cryptid Fall Market is a curated shopping event held in October that focuses on mythical creatures and autumn themes. This market serves as a community gathering for fans of folklore and local artistry to celebrate the Halloween season. Attendees can browse collections from thirty local artists and makers. The vendors will feature unique, cryptid-themed creations and seasonal Halloween art. The event provides an opportunity to purchase handcrafted goods directly from creators while enjoying a focused, thematic shopping experience. The layout is designed to facilitate easy navigation for all guests visiting the market stalls. This event is ideal for anyone interested in supporting local small businesses and discovering niche artistic interpretations of mythical beings. The atmosphere is intended to be welcoming and festive, providing a relaxed environment to browse and shop. Whether you are an enthusiast of urban legends or simply looking for seasonal home goods, this market offers a distinct collection of items you will not find elsewhere. Please mark your calendar and join us to support our creative community and celebrate the spirit of the fall season.

Horsegirls is an inspiring film screening that follows the journey of 22 year old Margarita, a young woman with autism, as she discovers hobby horsing. The story highlights her determination to prove her independence to her mother after a health crisis, showcasing her unique path to self discovery through this unconventional sport. Attendees will experience a heartfelt cinematic narrative that explores themes of growth, hobby horsing, and personal agency. The film captures the challenges and triumphs of navigating adulthood while managing neurodivergence. It provides an honest look at family dynamics and the healing power of personal passions. The production quality delivers a focused, character driven story that resonates with audiences interested in human interest dramas. This event is ideal for film enthusiasts, advocates for neurodiversity, and anyone interested in stories of resilience. The atmosphere is contemplative and uplifting, making it a meaningful experience for those seeking authentic character narratives. Join us for this special presentation and witness how one young woman finds her strength. Please secure your tickets in advance to ensure your seat for this impactful screening.

Experience an evening of community spirit at Moore Square for the First Friday Market and Movie Night. Hosted by Raleigh Parks and Get 2 Know Raleigh, this monthly event series brings the heart of the city to life every first Friday from May through November. Join us on September 4, 2026, for a special screening of the inspiring film Remember the Titans. The festivities begin at 5 p.m. with a vibrant local vendor market, delicious offerings from popular food trucks, and live music performed by talented regional artists. Attendees are encouraged to take advantage of the free to play games available on the lawn before the feature presentation begins at 7:15 p.m. This is the perfect opportunity to enjoy a memorable night under the stars with friends and family. Please remember to bring your own blankets or folding chairs to ensure a comfortable viewing experience. We recommend arriving early to secure your spot and explore everything the market has to offer. Visit the Get 2 Know Raleigh Facebook page for real-time weather updates and further information regarding this exciting community celebration.

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.

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 community music making at the One Tribe Drum Circle held at the scenic Dix Park Stone Houses Visitor Center in Raleigh. Taking place on the first Friday of every month from June through November, these sessions offer a unique opportunity to connect with others through the power of rhythm. Whether you are an experienced percussionist or a complete beginner, all are welcome to participate in this uplifting and stress-relieving activity. You are encouraged to bring your own hand percussion instruments, though One Tribe provides plenty of gear for those who do not have their own. Seating is provided for your convenience, ensuring a comfortable environment for everyone to enjoy the music. This inclusive event is designed to promote self-expression and foster local connections in a beautiful outdoor setting. While registration is requested, the organizers welcome drop-in attendees even if the event appears sold out online. Join us for this accessible and rhythmic celebration of community spirit. For the latest updates and additional details, please follow One Tribe on their official social media pages.

The Cozy Cryptid Fall Market is a curated shopping event held in October that focuses on mythical creatures and autumn themes. This market serves as a community gathering for fans of folklore and local artistry to celebrate the Halloween season. Attendees can browse collections from thirty local artists and makers. The vendors will feature unique, cryptid-themed creations and seasonal Halloween art. The event provides an opportunity to purchase handcrafted goods directly from creators while enjoying a focused, thematic shopping experience. The layout is designed to facilitate easy navigation for all guests visiting the market stalls. This event is ideal for anyone interested in supporting local small businesses and discovering niche artistic interpretations of mythical beings. The atmosphere is intended to be welcoming and festive, providing a relaxed environment to browse and shop. Whether you are an enthusiast of urban legends or simply looking for seasonal home goods, this market offers a distinct collection of items you will not find elsewhere. Please mark your calendar and join us to support our creative community and celebrate the spirit of the fall season.

The ORBIT Raleigh Bowling Invitational Tournament is an annual competitive bowling event held in Raleigh, North Carolina, over Labor Day weekend. Organized by an all-volunteer non-profit established in 2023, the event serves to foster high-level amateur competition while raising critical funds for LGBTQ+ charities across the state. It stands as the flagship initiative for the organization. Participants can expect a professionally managed tournament structure that welcomes amateur bowlers from both national and international backgrounds. The event focuses on fair play, skill development, and community engagement within a structured competitive environment. Beyond the lanes, the tournament highlights the dedication of volunteers committed to supporting local non-profit causes through sportsmanship and active community participation. This event is designed for amateur bowling enthusiasts who want to compete at a high level while supporting a meaningful cause. The atmosphere is centered on inclusivity, athleticism, and charitable impact. Whether you are a seasoned competitor or an supporter of the LGBTQ+ community in North Carolina, this tournament provides an excellent platform to showcase your talent. Registration information is available through the official tournament portal.

The Girl Kissers Book Club Launch Party is a festive community gathering designed to celebrate the official debut of our new mailers. This event serves as a launch celebration for our members to connect in person during the Labor Day holiday weekend. We invite everyone to join us for an afternoon of networking and community building at Le Dive Bar. Attendees can enjoy a curated selection of custom themed cocktails and mocktails while socializing with fellow book lovers. We will offer an exclusive sneak peek of our upcoming merchandise collection. Guests can participate in giveaways to win free mailers and browse the PR suitcase to collect various brand products. Our space will also feature dedicated areas for creative crafts and informal group discussions throughout the afternoon. This event is perfect for current members or anyone interested in joining our community. We foster a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere suitable for all readers, regardless of their current progress with our book selections. Please join us for an engaging day of conversation and celebration. We look forward to seeing you there.

Glitter Hour is a monthly amateur drag competition where performers of all experience levels compete for a local title. This September edition marks another step toward the final one thousand dollar cash prize and the grand showdown scheduled for January 2027. Performers take the stage to showcase diverse drag styles in a fast-paced environment. Each participant aims to impress the crowd, as the audience holds the power to select the monthly winner. The event highlights emerging talent and fosters a platform for creative expression within the drag community. Expect a high-energy atmosphere filled with dynamic performances and a focus on artistic growth. This competition is open to drag artists looking for stage time and fans who enjoy live performance art. The event offers an accessible way to engage with the local drag scene and support new talent. Come prepared for a night of spirited rivalry and creative entertainment. We invite you to join the audience, cast your vote for the best performer, and experience the energy of the competition firsthand. Tickets are available now for those ready to witness the next generation of drag stars in action.