Jaipur Literature Festival North Carolina

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.

Wicks and Wax is a hands on candle making workshop hosted by The Raw Edition Candle Co. and Fenton Cary. This event invites participants to create their own custom scented soy candles in a collaborative social setting. Attendees will learn the basics of fragrance blending and professional candle pouring techniques while creating a unique home product. The experience covers the complete process from selecting oils to applying labels. Participants will spend forty five minutes crafting their own premium soy candle using professional grade supplies like cotton wicks and soy wax. A dedicated wax chandler will guide the group through the steps to ensure a high quality result. The session also includes tips on achieving long lasting scents and proper burning maintenance. Beyond the crafting process the event incorporates light games and opportunities for social fellowship. This experience is designed for individuals couples and groups seeking a creative and relaxing activity in Fenton. Whether you are looking for a unique date night or a fun outing with friends this workshop provides a memorable and productive evening. Book your spot today to learn a new skill and take home a custom creation.

A Brush of History is an instructional architectural sketching workshop hosted at the historic Pugh House. This class provides participants with the opportunity to observe, interpret, and capture the structural details of this landmark building through pencil drawing and watercolor painting. Participants will begin by learning to map architectural forms using foundational pencil techniques. Once the composition is set, the class will progress to applying loose watercolor washes to bring the scene to life with color. Instructors will guide students through the process of simplifying complex historic features into manageable artistic elements, ensuring a focused and productive session for all skill levels. This event is designed for beginners who are interested in history, architecture, or introductory fine arts. You will enjoy a creative atmosphere that blends local heritage with artistic practice in a supportive setting. Whether you are looking to develop your sketching skills or simply spend a relaxing day exploring the Pugh House, this workshop offers a unique perspective on our community landmarks. Registration is now open, so please secure your spot to participate in this engaging creative experience.

Join Oak City Voices for a special meet and greet and open rehearsal on August 18, 2026, as the group kicks off its exciting 10th anniversary season. This inter-generational women's chorus invites prospective singers to experience their vibrant community firsthand. The event takes place at St. Pauls Episcopal Church in Cary from 7 to 9 p.m. and offers a wonderful opportunity to mingle with current members, enjoy refreshments, and learn about the groups mission to foster a love of music through song. During the session, attendees will participate in an informal sight reading of selected concert pieces led by professional director Russell McKinney and accompanist Martha Abernathy. This is the perfect environment for singers of all backgrounds to explore whether this ensemble is the right fit for their musical goals. No formal audition is required for attendance, making it an accessible and welcoming experience for everyone. Please visit the official website to complete the contact form or simply show up to join the chorus for an evening of beautiful harmony and creative connection.

Purpose@Peace is a community gathering designed to connect residents with local resources and foster neighborhood engagement. The City of Raleigh community engagement team will be on site to provide information about various municipal programs and services available to you and your family. This event serves as a central hub for residents to learn how to better utilize city offerings while enjoying a positive atmosphere. Attendees can expect a variety of helpful resources and informational materials regarding public services. We will provide fun giveaways for the entire family throughout the day. It is a great opportunity to ask questions, meet city representatives, and gain clarity on programs that impact your daily life. Whether you are seeking specific assistance or just want to learn more about how your city operates, this event offers something for everyone. We welcome families, individuals, and anyone interested in local community development to stop by our booth. We encourage you to visit us to engage with our team and pick up useful tools and information. We look forward to meeting you and helping you connect with the city services that matter most to your household.

The North Carolina Coalition for Alternatives to the Death Penalty invites you to an interfaith service and candlelight vigil marking the anniversary of the state's last execution. This event serves as a collective moment to reflect on our state's history regarding capital punishment and to advocate for a future defined by dignity and human worth. We aim to honor the lives of those executed and those currently living on death row. Participants can expect a meaningful program featuring music, interfaith prayer, and reflective rituals. The event will culminate in a one-mile candlelight procession to Central Prison. This walk represents our commitment to justice and our hope for systemic change. The atmosphere will be somber yet purposeful, providing a space for quiet contemplation and shared solidarity. This gathering is open to people of all faith traditions as well as those with no religious affiliation. We encourage anyone concerned about human rights and the death penalty to join us for this important community experience. Your presence helps us maintain a visible commitment to restorative justice and meaningful policy reform in North Carolina.

Wicks and Wax is a hands on candle making workshop hosted by The Raw Edition Candle Co. and Fenton Cary. This event invites participants to create their own custom scented soy candles in a collaborative social setting. Attendees will learn the basics of fragrance blending and professional candle pouring techniques while creating a unique home product. The experience covers the complete process from selecting oils to applying labels. Participants will spend forty five minutes crafting their own premium soy candle using professional grade supplies like cotton wicks and soy wax. A dedicated wax chandler will guide the group through the steps to ensure a high quality result. The session also includes tips on achieving long lasting scents and proper burning maintenance. Beyond the crafting process the event incorporates light games and opportunities for social fellowship. This experience is designed for individuals couples and groups seeking a creative and relaxing activity in Fenton. Whether you are looking for a unique date night or a fun outing with friends this workshop provides a memorable and productive evening. Book your spot today to learn a new skill and take home a custom creation.

National Senior Citizens Day 2026 is a dedicated community celebration honoring the contributions and experiences of our senior citizens. This event serves as a platform to foster connection, appreciation, and joy through a curated day of social activities and shared experiences. Attendees can look forward to an engaging lineup of carnival style games designed for all skill levels and physical abilities. A complimentary lunch will be provided for all guests, offering a relaxed environment to socialize with friends and neighbors. The atmosphere is intended to be lighthearted and communal, prioritizing comfort and accessibility for all participants. This gathering is specifically designed for seniors looking to enjoy a day of entertainment and camaraderie in a welcoming setting. We invite you to join us for this special occasion to celebrate our community members and enjoy a day planned with your interests in mind. Please mark your calendars and prepare for a rewarding day of fun. We look forward to welcoming you to this celebratory event and ensuring a memorable experience for everyone involved.

Experience the ultimate culinary celebration at the Durham Foodie Fare, a recurring monthly event hosted by The MAKRS Society at Durham Central Park. Running from March through December, this vibrant gathering transforms the heart of the city into a bustling hub of creativity and flavor. Guests are invited to explore a diverse array of local makers, talented artists, and small businesses showcasing their unique crafts and goods in a lively outdoor setting. With more than twenty food trucks serving up a wide variety of delicious options, there is truly something to satisfy every craving. Beyond the incredible dining experiences, the event features curated music and a welcoming atmosphere perfect for friends and family alike. Whether you are looking to discover new local talent, enjoy a casual dinner under the stars, or simply soak in the energy of the Durham community, this event offers the perfect Friday evening destination. Best of all, admission is completely free for all attendees. Make plans to visit us at 501 Foster Street and join the local excitement. We look forward to seeing you there for an unforgettable night of food, art, and community spirit.

Join The Scrap Exchange as it celebrates a remarkable 35 years of creative community impact during the Third Friday event in downtown Durham on August 21, 2026. This energetic anniversary celebration takes place at CCB Plaza from 6 to 9 p.m., offering an engaging evening packed with unique entertainment and festive activities for all ages. Experience live musical performances by Emma Jane and DJ MARRS, and catch a special appearance by the Scrap Exchange mascot, brought to life by Jeghetto Entertainment. Attendees can explore an immersive pop-up cardboard installation by artist Jason Lord, enjoy tarot readings, and participate in lawn games hosted by Pour Taproom. Local vendors will provide delicious treats, including a special signature salad from Neomonde Mediterranean. From the poolside views at Unscripted Durham to the vibrant galleries throughout downtown, this event promises a memorable experience for everyone. Mark your calendars for this milestone occasion and come celebrate the artistic spirit that defines Durham. We invite you to sign the giant birthday card and join the festivities. Visit our website for further details and to plan your evening in the city.

Experience the vibrant spirit of German culture at the upcoming Stammtisch event hosted by Der Nachbar Bottleshop and Taps in Durham. This recurring community night is the perfect opportunity to connect with fellow enthusiasts while enjoying refreshing steins of authentic German beer available at special pint pricing. Whether you are a local regular or a new visitor, you will appreciate the welcoming atmosphere of this neighborhood spot located on Hillsborough Road. Der Nachbar features twenty rotating taps, a curated selection of wines, and non-alcoholic options, ensuring every guest finds their perfect drink. The venue offers a dog-friendly patio and an outdoor serving window for your convenience. While you are welcome to bring in your own food or enjoy treats from featured local vendors, the friendly environment makes it an ideal setting for socialization and relaxation. Bring your friends and enjoy an evening filled with great conversation and exceptional brews. We encourage you to visit our location this week to participate in this engaging community tradition and discover why our patrons love our diverse event calendar.

Experience the joy of global cultures through movement with the Raleigh International Folk Dancers. Established in 1968, this vibrant community invites you to explore traditional dances from around the world every Friday evening at Glen Eden Pilot Park. Whether you are a seasoned dancer or a complete beginner, this inclusive environment welcomes everyone to join in the fun. You do not need a partner or prior experience to participate, as the group dedicates the early portion of each session to teaching easier steps before progressing to intermediate and advanced routines later in the evening. This weekly gathering is completely free of charge, generously supported by Raleigh Park and Recreation. It is a fantastic way to stay active, meet new friends, and learn something new in an encouraging setting. If you prefer to simply observe the artistry and energy of the group, you are more than welcome to stop by and watch. For more information or to reach the organizers, please contact Brown Patton via email. We look forward to seeing you on the dance floor soon.

Mahjong and Mingle is a recurring social event designed for players of all skill levels to enjoy the game of American Mahjong. Hosted by Elizabeth, this evening provides a dedicated space for both newcomers and experienced players to connect over tiles, strategy, and conversation. The event offers two distinct sessions to accommodate different levels of expertise. Beginners can participate in a structured lesson that covers the fundamentals of the game, including equipment and rules, for a fee of 40 dollars. Elizabeth supplies all necessary materials for those just starting out. Open play is available for 20 dollars for those who already know the basics and want to join a table. Please bring your own 2026 NMJL card to participate in the open play session. This gathering is ideal for anyone looking to learn a classic game or practice their skills in a welcoming, organized setting. The atmosphere is social and inclusive, making it a great way to meet others in the community while sharpening your Mahjong abilities. Reserve your spot today to ensure your seat at the table.