Lord of the Rings Drag Brunch

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.

Sharpen your tactical skills and enjoy a vibrant social atmosphere at the weekly Durham Chess Enthusiasts gathering. Held every Tuesday evening at the welcoming Der Nachbar Bottleshop and Taps, this event invites players of all skill levels to come together for friendly competition and community engagement. Whether you are a seasoned grandmaster or a curious beginner eager to learn the game, you will find an encouraging environment waiting for you in the heart of Durham. Der Nachbar provides the perfect backdrop for these matches, offering a wide selection of craft beers, wines, and non-alcoholic beverages. Feel free to bring your own takeout, enjoy the dog-friendly patio, or grab a snack from the rotating selection of local food trucks. Attendance is completely free, making it an accessible way to spend your Tuesday night. Please note that while all are welcome to participate, an adult must accompany any players under the age of eighteen. Join us this Tuesday from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. to test your strategy and meet fellow chess enthusiasts in a relaxed, local setting.

Join us every Tuesday at Der Nachbar Bottleshop and Taps in Durham for an exciting evening of chance and refreshment. Our popular Tuesday Toss event invites guests to roll the dice to determine their fate, offering a chance to secure a delicious draft beer for just five dollars. It is the perfect way to spice up your week with a bit of friendly competition and great value in a welcoming atmosphere. Located on Hillsborough Road, our shop features twenty rotating taps, a curated wine selection, and several non-alcoholic options to satisfy every palate. Whether you choose to relax on our pet-friendly patio or enjoy the cozy indoor space, we invite you to make yourself at home. Feel free to bring your own takeout or enjoy snacks from local favorites like Guglhupf Bakery. We strive to create a vibrant community space where neighbors can connect and unwind. Come roll the dice with us this Tuesday and discover why Der Nachbar is your go-to destination for local brews and good times. Visit us today to experience the fun firsthand.

Experience the charm of Wine Down Wednesday at La Vita Dolce in Southern Village, Chapel Hill. Marking its tenth successful year, this beloved weekly tradition offers the perfect setting to unwind from the work week with friends, family, and furry companions alike. Guests are invited to enjoy a relaxing atmosphere featuring refreshing wine specials and live musical performances. The event takes place every Wednesday evening from April 1 through October 21, 2026. Music performances commence at 6 p.m., providing a delightful soundtrack to your evening as you lounge in the pleasant outdoor seating area. Whether you are looking to enjoy a glass of fine wine or simply want to appreciate talented local musicians in an inviting environment, this series promises a memorable experience for all. We encourage you to join our vibrant community for this open social event. Make plans to visit us at 610 Market Street to experience why this has become a staple of the Chapel Hill social calendar. We look forward to welcoming you to these weekly festivities all season long.

This cinematic presentation explores the life and enduring legacy of Pulitzer Prize winning poet Mary Oliver. Through an intimate lens, it examines how her devotion to nature and deep observation shaped her work over five decades in Cape Cod. The event honors her journey from a secluded childhood to becoming a celebrated literary voice. Attendees will gain unique insights into Oliver’s world through never-before-seen personal archives, private correspondence, and rare notebooks. The program features exclusive interviews with close friends including John Waters. Viewers will also experience compelling recitations of her most beloved poems performed by Stephen Colbert, Lucy Dacus, Steve Buscemi, and Oprah Winfrey. This event is designed for poetry enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone seeking clarity amidst the distractions of modern life. It offers a reflective space to contemplate our connection to the environment and the importance of presence in a digital age. Join us to celebrate the profound impact of a mystic poet who taught us how to pay attention to the world. Secure your spot to experience this insightful tribute to one of America’s most cherished writers.

The Rocky Horror Picture Show is a cult classic film screening hosted at The Rialto in Raleigh. This event combines the iconic movie with a high energy live performance by the Low Down Cheap Little Punks to provide a unique interactive experience for the local community. Attendees can expect a full cinematic presentation enhanced by a live shadow cast that mirrors the action on screen. The performers lead the audience through classic musical numbers and well known rituals associated with the film. This production brings the screen to life through professional choreography and theatrical presentation. This event is perfect for fans of cult cinema, musical theater, and anyone looking for a memorable night out in Raleigh. The atmosphere is vibrant, inclusive, and encourages enthusiastic participation throughout the show. It offers a rare chance to experience a piece of pop culture history in a historic local venue. Tickets for this popular screening often sell out quickly. We encourage you to book your seats in advance to ensure your spot at this exciting production. Join us for a night of music and classic entertainment.

Join nationally headlining comedian and viral sensation Kristin Key for an engaging night of live standup and music. This event showcases her unique brand of humor, blending witty observations with original songs in a live performance environment designed to foster inclusion and community connection. Kristin Key is a recognized talent known for her Dry Bar comedy special, popular podcast, and appearances on shows such as Last Comic Standing and Bring the Funny. Attendees can expect a fast paced show featuring her viral comedy segments, musical highlights, and career favorite stories. The performance draws on her extensive experience from national tours and her established presence in the comedy industry. This show is perfect for fans of musical comedy and anyone looking for a night of lighthearted entertainment. The atmosphere is intended to be welcoming and energetic, making it an ideal choice for a fun night out. Secure your tickets now to experience this performance in person. For additional details regarding her work and background, please visit her official website at kristinkey.com.