Live Music: Lakota John at the Gregg Museum

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.

Project 800 is an immersive art exhibit dedicated to raising awareness and funds to combat global extreme poverty. The event highlights the reality that 800 million people currently live in extreme poverty, emphasizing the urgent need to address this global humanitarian challenge. Attendees will explore various artistic mediums, including sculpture, video, augmented reality, print, and sound installations. Each piece utilizes the concept of 800 to demonstrate the immense scale of this population. These creative works invite visitors to engage with the sensation of space and form while reflecting on the human potential hindered by poverty. The exhibit serves as a fundraiser for the Borgen Project, a non-profit organization that lobbies governments to implement policies aimed at ending extreme poverty worldwide. This event is perfect for art enthusiasts, social activists, and anyone interested in global development. It offers a professional yet thought-provoking atmosphere designed to inspire collective action. Join us to experience unique perspectives on this critical issue and contribute to a meaningful cause. Tickets are available now to support advocacy efforts that change lives globally.

Experience the vibrant community spirit at the Fenton Makers Market, located at 201 Fenton Gateway Drive in Cary, North Carolina. This curated event series offers a fantastic opportunity to support local talent while enjoying a beautiful day outdoors. Join us from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on select dates throughout 2026 to explore an impressive showcase featuring 35 local artists booths, specifically selected by Triangle Pop-Up to bring unique, high-quality handmade goods directly to the community. In addition to the incredible selection of artisan offerings, visitors can take advantage of the existing retail landscape at Fenton. Whether you are looking for a unique gift, home decor, or simply want to browse the latest local creations, there is something for everyone. The atmosphere is further enhanced by live music performances that set the perfect tone for a relaxed shopping experience. We invite you to gather your friends and family for an afternoon of discovery and connection. Make plans to visit us soon and celebrate the creativity that defines our region at this premier destination 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.

Experience the vibrant heart of the local creative scene at the Durham Craft Market, held every Saturday morning at Durham Central Park. This juried, artist-run collective showcases the incredible talents of over fifty regional artisans who live and create within thirty miles of the city. Whether you are searching for unique handmade decor, exquisite jewelry, or one-of-a-kind gifts, you will find an exceptional variety of high-quality goods that celebrate the spirit of our community. The market serves as a welcoming gathering space where neighbors and visitors can connect directly with the talented individuals behind the work. Since its inception in 2006, this grassroots initiative has blossomed into a must-visit destination for those who value craftsmanship and local commerce. Please note that summer hours run from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m., while winter hours shift to 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Admission is completely free, making it the perfect weekend outing for everyone. We invite you to come out, support your local makers, and enjoy the energetic atmosphere of our outdoor marketplace. Visit us at 501 Foster Street this Saturday to discover your next favorite treasure.

The Coffee to Coffee Bike Ride is a community cycling event celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Raleigh greenway system and the opening of a new Drift Coffee location. Riders will travel from the Ridgewood store to the new shop near Dix Park using an accessible greenway route. Participants will enjoy a 10 mile out and back ride primarily on paved greenway paths. Volunteers will lead and sweep the group to ensure safety and support for all riders. The first 50 guests will receive free swag items upon arrival at the destination. Riders are encouraged to arrive by 8:30 am to grab a beverage or snack before the 9:15 am departure. This event is open to all cyclists who enjoy casual group rides and wish to support local infrastructure and businesses. The atmosphere will be social, energetic, and beginner friendly. Please review the Ride with GPS route before arriving to prepare for the course. We look forward to seeing you there for a morning of exercise and celebration.

Prepare for the upcoming academic year at the vibrant Books, Bikes and Back-to-School event hosted by the Durham Co-op Market. This community gathering is designed to help students and families transition smoothly into the school season while celebrating the joy of learning and healthy living. Attendees can look forward to an engaging atmosphere filled with activities that emphasize education, active lifestyles, and community connection. Whether you are hunting for great resources, looking to brush up on bike safety, or simply wanting to connect with local neighbors, this event offers something special for everyone. The Durham Co-op Market provides a welcoming environment for all participants to enjoy the festivities together. This is an excellent opportunity to gather necessary supplies and enjoy a productive day out before classes resume. We warmly invite all members of the community to join us for this free event on August 15, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 1111 W Chapel Hill Street in Durham. Mark your calendars and bring your friends for an unforgettable experience that supports our local students and families.

Non-molluscan Invertebrate Research Day is an educational event highlighting the diverse study of arthropods, annelids, and other invertebrates. Hosted by the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences, this program showcases the novel scientific research conducted by our staff and the ongoing stewardship of our extensive biological collections. Attendees will gain insight into the complex roles these creatures play in our global ecosystems. Guests can engage directly with research scientists during live demonstrations and specialized station displays located throughout the first floor of the Nature Research Center. Experts will present their current field studies, explain laboratory methodologies, and share fascinating findings from their recent expeditions. These interactions offer a unique look at how scientists categorize, preserve, and understand the vast world of non-molluscan invertebrates. This event is perfect for students, biology enthusiasts, and curious families interested in natural history. The atmosphere is open and conversational, providing an excellent opportunity to ask questions and learn about real-world research. Please join us at the Nature Research Center to explore these remarkable organisms and meet the experts dedicated to their study. We look forward to seeing you there for a day of discovery.

Join the Museum of Durham History for a nostalgic journey back to the summer of 1976. This special pop-up exhibition commemorates the 50th anniversary of the Bicentennial Folklife Festival, a historic gathering held at West Point on the Eno that celebrated the rich traditions, arts, and culture of North Carolina. This curated event features a collection of archival photographs, shared personal memories, and music that define this unique moment in local history. The reception takes place on Friday, July 17, 2026, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Museum of Durham History. Attendees will have the opportunity to hear firsthand stories from original organizers and community members who experienced the celebration five decades ago. This event is free and open to the public, offering a wonderful chance to connect with Durham heritage. We invite you to stop by the museum at 500 W Main Street to celebrate this milestone. Discover the spirit of the past through vibrant visuals and captivating storytelling. We look forward to welcoming you for an evening of reflection and community connection as we honor the legacy of this significant local anniversary.

Join us for our monthly drop-in art session where visitors explore creativity through hands-on making. This interactive program takes place across our museum galleries and park, offering a unique way to engage with our current exhibitions through guided artistic exercises. This month, participants will create botanical collages inspired by the floral elements found in the site-specific installation garlands 115 unfurled by Colby Caldwell. You will work with digital photography and collage techniques to construct your own art piece. Materials are provided on-site, and you will have the chance to explore the installation as you work on your project. The session focuses on creative expression and artistic interpretation in an accessible format. This event is open to all ages, making it an ideal activity for families, art enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a creative afternoon at the museum. The atmosphere is casual and self-paced, allowing you to drop in whenever your schedule permits. We encourage everyone to visit the galleries and participate in the making process. No registration is required, so simply head to the museum to start creating.