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Manhattan Shorts 2026
Date and Time
October 3, 2026, Sat., 8pm
Venue
The Cary Theater
Location
Cary
Address
327 S. Academy St., Cary, NC 27511
(369.0 mi)
Price
$7.46+
Description
The Manhattan Short Film Festival is an annual cinematic event taking place from September 24 to October 4, 2026. This global festival allows audiences in over 500 venues worldwide to watch the same program of ten selected finalist films simultaneously.
Attendees will view a curated selection of the best short films produced globally this year. The screening highlights diverse storytelling and professional craftsmanship, with many past participants gaining subsequent recognition at the Academy Awards. As part of the interactive experience, every viewer receives a ballot upon entry to cast their official vote for Best Film and Best Actor, directly influencing the final results of the competition.
This event is designed for dedicated film enthusiasts and casual moviegoers who appreciate quality storytelling in a concise format. The atmosphere is collaborative and professional, offering a unique opportunity to participate in a worldwide critique alongside thousands of other viewers. Join us this autumn to support independent cinema and help decide which filmmakers earn top honors. Tickets are currently available at local participating venues for this limited engagement.
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Jaipur Literature Festival
3800 Hillsborough St, Raleigh, NC 27607
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.
371.3 mi
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$12.07–$56.84 per ticket, including fees & taxes
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Lakeside Retreats Family Fest
4521 Mial Plantation Rd
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!
383.4 mi
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Safe Homes, Strong Families Resource Day
Abbotts Creek Community Center, 9950 Durant Road, Raleigh, NC 27614
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.
369.6 mi
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More events from The Cary Theater
Mary Oliver: Saved by the Beauty of the World
at The Cary Theater, Cary
This event is a documentary screening and exploration of the life and work of Pulitzer Prize winning poet Mary Oliver. It examines her deep connection to the natural world of Cape Cod and her enduring influence on contemporary literature and mindfulness.
Attendees will experience a cinematic journey through Oliver’s life, featuring rare personal archives, notebooks, and correspondence. The presentation includes exclusive interviews with close friends like John Waters alongside featured readings of her most iconic poetry performed by Stephen Colbert, Lucy Dacus, Steve Buscemi, and Oprah Winfrey. These segments provide a unique look at her private world and the inspirations behind her celebrated verses.
This event is perfect for literature enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone seeking clarity in an age of digital distraction. It offers a reflective atmosphere suitable for poets, naturalists, and urbanites alike. Join us for this screening to rediscover the profound simplicity of Oliver’s work and its pressing relevance to modern life. We invite you to explore the intersection of beauty, attention, and the human experience through the lens of one of America’s most beloved contemporary mystics.
368.8 mi
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$4.80+
Horsegirls
at The Cary Theater, Cary
Horsegirls is a compelling film screening that explores the life of Margarita, a twenty-two-year-old woman with autism navigating her mother's illness. This cinematic journey follows her unexpected discovery of hobby-horsing as a medium for self-discovery and personal independence.
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368.8 mi
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Horsegirls
at The Cary Theater, Cary
Horsegirls is an inspiring film screening that follows the journey of 22 year old Margarita, a young woman with autism, as she discovers hobby horsing. The story highlights her determination to prove her independence to her mother after a health crisis, showcasing her unique path to self discovery through this unconventional sport.
Attendees will experience a heartfelt cinematic narrative that explores themes of growth, hobby horsing, and personal agency. The film captures the challenges and triumphs of navigating adulthood while managing neurodivergence. It provides an honest look at family dynamics and the healing power of personal passions. The production quality delivers a focused, character driven story that resonates with audiences interested in human interest dramas.
This event is ideal for film enthusiasts, advocates for neurodiversity, and anyone interested in stories of resilience. The atmosphere is contemplative and uplifting, making it a meaningful experience for those seeking authentic character narratives. Join us for this special presentation and witness how one young woman finds her strength. Please secure your tickets in advance to ensure your seat for this impactful screening.
368.8 mi
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More Annual Events
Recurring annual events and traditions in Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill.
Walgreens Senior Day Discount Program
at Walgreens (multiple locations),
Unlock significant savings with the Walgreens Senior Day program, specifically designed for rewards members aged 55 and older. On the first Tuesday of every month, eligible shoppers can enjoy a twenty percent discount on a wide range of regular priced merchandise both in store and online. This monthly initiative provides a fantastic opportunity for seniors to maximize their household budget while shopping for their favorite essential items.
To participate, ensure you are signed up for a free myWalgreens membership. If you prefer shopping from the comfort of home, you can easily apply the promo code SENIOR20 at checkout on the official Walgreens website during the designated promotion window. Please keep in mind that the discount applies to regular priced goods and excludes certain categories such as prescriptions, tobacco, and alcohol. We encourage you to visit your local store or log into your account to review the full list of qualifying products. Mark your calendar today and take full advantage of these recurring monthly savings opportunities. Join the thousands of satisfied shoppers who prioritize their wellness and savings at Walgreens each month.
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Walgreens (multiple locations)
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Siler City History Club Meeting
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349.5 mi
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The excitement does not end with the holiday weekend. Hardee's is keeping the party going by extending exclusive deals and weekly offers throughout the rest of September to honor their heritage and appreciation for loyal customers. Whether you are a long time fan or a new visitor, this is a fantastic opportunity to enjoy quality comfort food at an unbeatable price point.
We invite you to visit your local Hardee's location to take advantage of these savings and join in the birthday cheer. Mark your calendars, bring your friends and family, and experience the classic flavors that have made Hardee's a breakfast staple for over six decades.
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More Festivals
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We invite everyone to visit the Eno Arts Mill for this free, energetic gathering. Whether you are an art enthusiast or looking for a meaningful outing, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Please visit the official website to learn more and secure your spot today.
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PLAYlist Concert Series at Durham Central Park: Africa Unplugged
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The event takes place on the first Friday of each month from May through October, with a special scheduling adjustment in July. Admission is entirely free, making it an accessible experience for everyone. Attendees are encouraged to bring blankets or lawn chairs to enjoy the lawn seating. Local food trucks and craft beer vendors will be available on-site to satisfy your cravings while you enjoy the show. Parking is complimentary, and the venue is fully wheelchair accessible. Gather your friends and family for an evening of live entertainment under the stars. Check the official website today to view the full lineup and plan your visit.
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17th Annual African American Cultural Festival of Raleigh and Wake County
at Fayetteville St. block party; Ticketed concerts at Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts, Downtown Raleigh
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More Film & Cinema
Film screenings, movie festivals, outdoor cinema, and film-related events.
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Join us on the first Tuesday of each month from June through October 2026 for a special screening of Wicked. Please note that start times vary slightly throughout the season based on sunset. While admission to these screenings is entirely free for the public, you can enhance your visit by purchasing popcorn and refreshments at the Pullen Cafe. Please monitor the official Raleigh Parks website for weather-related updates or potential cancellations. We look forward to seeing you there for a magical evening of cinema. Visit our website today to learn more about our summer schedule and additional outdoor events happening across the Triangle.
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Arthur Elrod: Desert Cool
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Arthur Elrod: Desert Cool is a cinematic exploration of the life and work of Palm Springs most iconic interior designer. This documentary chronicles how Elrod transformed mid-century desert modernism into a global aesthetic phenomenon by blending architectural precision with theatrical flair. The film focuses on his legendary collaboration with architect John Lautner and the creation of the home famously featured in the James Bond film Diamonds Are Forever.
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This screening is intended for architecture enthusiasts, design professionals, and fans of mid-century cultural history. The atmosphere is professional yet engaging, providing a sophisticated look at the legacy of a true industry pioneer. Join us for this essential screening to discover the history behind some of the most covetable spaces ever created. Tickets are available now for all interested participants.
372.6 mi
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Terrific Tuesdays at The Lumina Theater
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Experience the magic of cinema without breaking your budget at The Lumina Theater in Southern Village. Located conveniently at 620 Market Street in Chapel Hill, this premier local destination is proud to offer their signature Terrific Tuesdays promotion. Every Tuesday throughout the entire year, movie lovers can secure tickets for the incredibly low base price of 6.25 dollars. After including all necessary taxes and fees, your total comes to just 7.75 dollars per person, making it an ideal choice for a budget-friendly date night or a casual mid-week outing with friends and family.
Beyond the savings on admission, guests can also enjoy exclusive concession specials offered only on Tuesdays. This creates a perfect opportunity to indulge in your favorite theater snacks while enjoying the latest film releases in a comfortable, inviting atmosphere. Whether you are looking for a routine movie experience or a cost-effective way to entertain the whole group, The Lumina Theater delivers both quality and value. We encourage you to plan your next visit soon to take advantage of these significant weekly savings and elevate your Tuesday evening plans.
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