JCPenney Kids Zone: Monthly Free Craft Events

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.

Discover the invigorating practice of Acro Yoga every Wednesday evening at the beautiful Pullen Park in Raleigh. This unique discipline seamlessly blends the balance and mindfulness of traditional yoga with the dynamic excitement of acrobatics. Our community sessions are designed to be inclusive, welcoming participants of all skill levels, including absolute beginners who are eager to learn something new. Whether you are looking to build strength, improve flexibility, or simply meet new friends in a supportive environment, this is the perfect opportunity to get moving outdoors. Please remember to bring your own yoga mat or a towel and plenty of water to stay hydrated during your practice. These sessions are held weekly from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m., though please note that schedules may shift to indoor locations like Method Park during colder months. To ensure you stay informed about potential weather cancellations or schedule updates, we encourage you to join our dedicated Facebook group for the latest news. We look forward to seeing you there for an uplifting experience that combines fitness, community, and fun under the open sky.

Experience the unique intersection of sustainable agriculture and community building at Wine plus Weeds, hosted by Raleigh City Farm. This weekly gathering invites you to steward our beautiful 1.2-acre urban space located in the heart of downtown Raleigh. Every Wednesday from April through October, participants can engage in hands-on gardening, learn the principles of regenerative agriculture, and deepen their understanding of local plant life. It is the perfect opportunity to get your hands in the soil while connecting with fellow garden enthusiasts. After working in the fields, relax and socialize with a refreshing splash of wine or a non-alcoholic beverage provided by our friends at Wine Authorities. Whether you are a seasoned gardener or a curious beginner, this program offers a welcoming environment to grow, learn, and contribute to a healthier local food system. Join us to support a meaningful mission while enjoying a relaxing evening under the open sky. We encourage you to visit our website to reserve your spot today, as space fills up quickly. We look forward to seeing you at the farm for a memorable experience.

Experience an invigorating start to your morning with Dance Gumbo, an exciting outdoor fitness series hosted at the beautiful North Carolina Museum of Art in Raleigh. Led by professional instructor Jordan Farrell, these high-energy sessions take place at the scenic Ellipse in the Museum Park, offering the perfect backdrop for an active and refreshing workout. Participants of all experience levels are invited to join this unique aerobic class that expertly blends popular dance styles, including Zumba, Latin rhythms, and hip-hop, into one seamless and fun routine. This event is designed to celebrate movement, music, and community spirit in a welcoming open-air environment. While the sessions are free to attend, voluntary donations are encouraged to help support ongoing programming. Whether you are looking to boost your fitness or simply enjoy a vibrant atmosphere, this is an excellent opportunity to connect with fellow locals while staying active. Please visit the official event page to view the schedule and complete your registration to secure your spot. We look forward to seeing you at the museum for a morning of movement and joy.

Triangle Cinemas, located at 9500 Forum Drive in Raleigh, North Carolina, invites local families to enjoy a series of complimentary movie screenings throughout the summer months. From June 16 through August 20, 2026, the theater will present popular children films every Tuesday through Thursday, with additional screenings on select Fridays. These events are designed to offer an affordable and entertaining way for families to stay cool and engaged during the summer break. Doors open promptly at 9:30 a.m., with the featured movies beginning at 10 a.m. While outside food and beverages are not permitted inside the theater, a full range of concessions will be available for purchase to enhance your viewing experience. This initiative provides a fantastic opportunity for children to enjoy big screen entertainment in a welcoming environment. We encourage all families in the Triangle area to join us for these exciting morning features. Whether you are looking for a fun outing or a way to keep the kids entertained, our summer movie program is the perfect destination. Plan your visit today and be sure to check our full schedule for additional free and affordable programming.

Artful Story Time is an interactive program that pairs children literature with original works of art. The event explores visual storytelling through reading and movement to help children connect with museum collections in a meaningful way. Each session offers a unique experience designed to encourage curiosity and creative thinking in young participants. Attendees will listen to rotating featured readers who bring stories to life throughout the museum galleries. Because the event frequently changes locations and content, every session provides a fresh perspective and a new way to engage with art. This experience is specifically tailored for young children and their caregivers who enjoy immersive learning. The atmosphere is energetic, welcoming, and designed to foster a love for both reading and art history. Whether you are a regular visitor or attending for the first time, you will find an engaging environment that supports early childhood development. We invite families to join us for these sessions to discover new stories and explore the museum galleries together. Please check the current schedule for specific locations and featured readers before your visit.

Prepare for the upcoming academic year by attending the Durham Rescue Mission Back to School Party on Wednesday, August 19, 2026. This community gathering is dedicated to supporting local students and families by providing essential resources to ensure a successful start to the school year. Guests will have the opportunity to receive free school supplies, groceries, and a complimentary lunch while supplies last. Doors open at 11 a.m. with the main event beginning at 12 p.m. at the Durham Rescue Mission location on East Main Street. This event is a fantastic way to engage with the community and alleviate the financial burden associated with back to school preparations. Whether you are seeking necessary materials or simply want to participate in a supportive environment, this party offers a welcoming atmosphere for everyone. Make sure to arrive early to take advantage of the available resources. Join your neighbors for this impactful day of giving and community spirit. Visit the official Durham Rescue Mission website for more information on how you can support their ongoing efforts throughout the year.

Triangle Cinemas, located at 9500 Forum Drive in Raleigh, North Carolina, invites local families to enjoy a series of complimentary movie screenings throughout the summer months. From June 16 through August 20, 2026, the theater will present popular children films every Tuesday through Thursday, with additional screenings on select Fridays. These events are designed to offer an affordable and entertaining way for families to stay cool and engaged during the summer break. Doors open promptly at 9:30 a.m., with the featured movies beginning at 10 a.m. While outside food and beverages are not permitted inside the theater, a full range of concessions will be available for purchase to enhance your viewing experience. This initiative provides a fantastic opportunity for children to enjoy big screen entertainment in a welcoming environment. We encourage all families in the Triangle area to join us for these exciting morning features. Whether you are looking for a fun outing or a way to keep the kids entertained, our summer movie program is the perfect destination. Plan your visit today and be sure to check our full schedule for additional free and affordable programming.

Prepare for the upcoming academic year by attending the Durham Rescue Mission Back to School Party on Wednesday, August 19, 2026. This community gathering is dedicated to supporting local students and families by providing essential resources to ensure a successful start to the school year. Guests will have the opportunity to receive free school supplies, groceries, and a complimentary lunch while supplies last. Doors open at 11 a.m. with the main event beginning at 12 p.m. at the Durham Rescue Mission location on East Main Street. This event is a fantastic way to engage with the community and alleviate the financial burden associated with back to school preparations. Whether you are seeking necessary materials or simply want to participate in a supportive environment, this party offers a welcoming atmosphere for everyone. Make sure to arrive early to take advantage of the available resources. Join your neighbors for this impactful day of giving and community spirit. Visit the official Durham Rescue Mission website for more information on how you can support their ongoing efforts throughout the year.

Join the Carrboro Farmers Market for an engaging season of family fun through our Market Bunch program and various community celebrations. Held at the historic Carrboro Town Commons, our market connects residents with local farmers and artisans who produce high-quality goods within a fifty-mile radius. Every Wednesday from April through November, the Market Bunch program provides free educational activities for children, focusing on sustainability, healthy eating, and creative arts. These interactive sessions encourage young learners to explore the origins of their food in a supportive, community-driven environment. Beyond our weekly programming, we host monthly seasonal events ranging from the vibrant Kids Seedling Day to the popular Strawberry Jamboree and the festive Tomato Day. Whether you are interested in gardening tips, live music, or delicious local food samples, there is something for everyone to enjoy. We invite you to experience the best of local agriculture while participating in unique cultural events designed for all ages. Please visit our website or follow our Facebook page for updated event calendars and detailed schedules. We look forward to seeing your family at the market this season.