Larry Stephenson

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!

Four hours for them. Four hours for YOU. Drop the kids off at Battle House Laser Tag for a night packed with laser tag, pizza, a movie, and more laser tag. Meanwhile, you can go to dinner, catch a movie, run errands, enjoy a quiet house, or simply remember what it feels like to finish a sentence without being interrupted. Details Ages: 7 to 13 Time: 5 PM to 9 PM Price: $49 per child What's Included -4 hours total -Approximately 3 hours of Battle House Laser Tag -Large slice of pizza and a drink -Movie time during dinner, then more laser tag time For Parents: Four glorious hours where parents do not have to entertain anyone Reserve tickets at: https://ecom.roller.app/battlehousefayetteville/parentsnightout/en-us/products

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 features a double bill performance by two high-energy string bands, 65 North Pickers and Radish. The concert showcases a blend of traditional bluegrass, jam band improvisation, and contemporary musical influences designed for music lovers who enjoy live string instrumentation and adventurous performances. The 65 North Pickers open the evening with their signature mix of mandolin, banjo, guitar, and bass. They are known for incorporating elements of classic festival culture, the Grateful Dead, and Jimi Hendrix into their original songs and jams. Following them, Radish takes the stage to present their unique bluegrass-ish sound. This Baltimore-based ensemble features a full complement of acoustic instruments, including the dobro, to deliver a fresh and genre-bending sonic experience. Both groups are celebrated for their technical musicianship and ability to keep a crowd engaged through complex arrangements. This show is perfect for fans of improvisational music and anyone looking for a night of spirited live performance. Whether you are a dedicated bluegrass enthusiast or a casual listener of alternative string music, you will find a welcoming atmosphere. Join us for this evening of talent and community to see why both bands are gaining significant momentum in the music scene.

Experience the vibrant spirit of the Triangle at Durham Beer and Banjos, a premier weekly music series hosted at the beautiful Old Mill Farm. This recurring event invites music lovers to unwind every Thursday evening from 6 to 8 p.m. Attendees can enjoy an authentic selection of roots, bluegrass, Americana, and folk performances delivered by talented local musicians. Set against the charming backdrop of a historic North Carolina farm, this series offers the perfect atmosphere for community members to relax, socialize, and appreciate high quality live acoustic music. Whether you are a dedicated fan of traditional folk tunes or simply looking for a wonderful way to spend your Thursday evening, this event provides an accessible and engaging experience for all guests. Admission is completely free, making it an excellent choice for a budget friendly outing in Durham. We encourage you to visit the official Durham Beer and Banjos Facebook page to view the current performance schedule and discover which band is taking the stage this week. Join your neighbors for an unforgettable evening of rhythm, melody, and local hospitality at one of the most delightful venues in the region.

Still Mountain Railroad presents a live concert featuring a blend of bluegrass and gospel music. This event showcases the roots of American musical traditions through professional performance and storytelling. Attendees can expect an evening filled with tight vocal harmonies and skilled instrumental picking. The repertoire focuses on uplifting gospel songs and traditional bluegrass standards performed with technical precision. The performance highlights the rich history of these genres, providing a clear window into the foundations of American acoustic music. This concert is designed for fans of traditional acoustic music, families, and anyone interested in a heritage based performance experience. The atmosphere will be focused and engaging, highlighting the craftsmanship of the musicians. Whether you are a long time enthusiast of bluegrass or simply enjoy live gospel arrangements, this event offers a high quality musical experience in an intimate setting. We encourage you to join us for an evening of authentic music and community. Please check our website for specific ticketing details and venue information to secure your seat for this performance.

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.

The 17th Annual African American Cultural Festival of Raleigh and Wake County is a community celebration dedicated to honoring African American culture through the arts. Held in downtown Raleigh during Labor Day weekend on September 5 and 6, 2026, the event aims to unite and educate a diverse audience through meaningful cultural expression. Attendees can experience a wide range of performances and exhibits highlighting visual arts, music, theater, and dance. The festival features a dynamic lineup of both local and national talent. Visitors will also find an extensive collection of craft, merchant, and food vendors providing a variety of shopping and dining options throughout the event grounds. This family friendly festival is free and accessible to all members of the public, making it an ideal destination for visitors traveling from across the country. The atmosphere is interactive, inclusive, and designed to foster community engagement. Whether you are interested in artistic discovery or simply looking to enjoy a vibrant cultural experience, this festival offers something for everyone. Join us in downtown Raleigh for this milestone celebration and become a part of the experience.

Join the community for a high-energy evening at the Beats & Bars Music Trivia Night, hosted at The Durham Hotel. This exciting event celebrates the rich tapestry of Black music, bringing together fans for a nostalgic competition that tests your deep knowledge of hip-hop, R&B, soul, funk, and Southern classics. Whether you are a casual listener or a dedicated music enthusiast, this trivia night offers a perfect platform to showcase your expertise while connecting with fellow fans in a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere. Gather your crew, form your team, and prepare for an unforgettable night of competition and good vibes. This event is part of the broader Beats & Bars Music Festival, a milestone celebration returning to Durham for its tenth year to honor creativity and culture. Entry to the trivia night is entirely free, making it an accessible opportunity to engage with Durham's thriving music scene. We invite you to bring your passion for music and join us for this unique cultural experience. Secure your spot now and get ready to celebrate the artistry and history of the music we love.