Market Bunch Kids Activities at Carrboro Farmers Market

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.

Join the Town of Chapel Hill and the Food Bank of Central and Eastern North Carolina for our recurring community food distribution events. Held twice monthly, these supplemental gatherings are designed to provide essential support to all neighbors in need. We invite you to visit the Eubanks Park-and-Ride Lot on the second and fourth Wednesday of each month at 9:30 a.m. Please remember to bring along one or two boxes or bags to help transport your items efficiently. Our mission is to foster a supportive environment for everyone in the community. Whether you are seeking assistance or looking to give back, your presence is valued. We are always seeking enthusiastic volunteers to help facilitate these distributions, so please sign up if you have time to contribute. For those requiring more immediate or ongoing food assistance, we encourage you to visit the official Food Bank website to locate an agency near your specific zip code. We look forward to seeing you at our next event as we continue working together to strengthen our local community support networks.

Creek Critter Discovery is an interactive educational program focused on exploring local stream health through the study of aquatic macroinvertebrates. Participants will work alongside experts from the Haw River Assembly to identify the tiny organisms that act as biological indicators for water quality. This event serves as a practical introduction to the science behind monitoring and protecting our local aquatic ecosystems. Attendees will gain hands-on experience collecting samples and learning how to interpret the presence of specific wildlife species. The session highlights the role of macroinvertebrates in assessing environmental integrity and provides deep insight into current regional water conservation initiatives. You will learn to use identification tools and observe the delicate balance of life residing within our local waterways. This program is perfect for students, outdoor enthusiasts, and concerned citizens interested in environmental science. The atmosphere is collaborative, informative, and suited for anyone curious about the natural world in their backyard. We invite you to join us to deepen your understanding of local water health. Register today to secure your place in this essential environmental exploration session.

Mahjong and Mingle is a recurring social event designed for players of all skill levels to enjoy the game of American Mahjong. Hosted by Elizabeth, this evening provides a dedicated space for both newcomers and experienced players to connect over tiles, strategy, and conversation. The event offers two distinct sessions to accommodate different levels of expertise. Beginners can participate in a structured lesson that covers the fundamentals of the game, including equipment and rules, for a fee of 40 dollars. Elizabeth supplies all necessary materials for those just starting out. Open play is available for 20 dollars for those who already know the basics and want to join a table. Please bring your own 2026 NMJL card to participate in the open play session. This gathering is ideal for anyone looking to learn a classic game or practice their skills in a welcoming, organized setting. The atmosphere is social and inclusive, making it a great way to meet others in the community while sharpening your Mahjong abilities. Reserve your spot today to ensure your seat at the table.

Raleigh Parks and Oaks and Spokes invite you to participate in our highly anticipated Learn to Ride program. Designed specifically for riders ages five and up, this initiative helps participants master balance and control on a bicycle without the use of training wheels. By utilizing the proven balance bike method, our dedicated volunteers provide a supportive environment where riders can gain confidence while safely navigating on two wheels. Whether you are a complete beginner or looking to transition away from training wheels, our team is here to guide you every step of the way. All necessary equipment, including a balance bike and a helmet, will be provided for your convenience. If you prefer to bring your own bicycle, our skilled mechanics are available to remove pedals and training wheels to prepare your bike for the training session. These events are incredibly popular and frequently sell out, so we encourage you to mark your calendars when registration opens. Visit our official website to secure your spot today and start your journey toward cycling independence with Raleigh Parks.

Horsegirls is a poignant feature film screening that explores themes of independence and self-discovery through the unique lens of hobby-horsing. The story follows 22-year-old Margarita, an autistic woman navigating her mother’s illness while pursuing a deeply personal passion. This event offers a compelling look at how personal hobbies can empower individuals and bridge emotional gaps during difficult life transitions. Attendees can expect an intimate and thoughtful cinematic experience that balances emotional depth with the whimsical nature of hobby-horsing. The film highlights the determination of the protagonist as she balances family expectations with her own autonomy. Viewers will gain insights into the sensory world of the main character and the unconventional sport that becomes her outlet for creative expression and personal agency. This screening is intended for film enthusiasts, advocates for neurodiversity, and anyone interested in stories about family dynamics and resilience. The atmosphere is designed to be welcoming, reflective, and thought-provoking for all audience members. Join us for this powerful narrative that celebrates the strength found in unexpected places. Please secure your tickets in advance to ensure your seat for this unique cinematic event.

Experience the vibrant community atmosphere at the Carrboro Farmers Market, where local agriculture meets family fun. Our Market Bunch program offers engaging activities every Wednesday from April through November, focusing on sustainability, healthy eating, and creative arts. These interactive sessions are designed to inspire young minds while connecting them with the farmers and artisans who grow our food. Beyond our weekly sessions, the market hosts a variety of seasonal celebrations including Kids Seedling Day, the Strawberry Jamboree, and our popular Tomato Day. These events provide a unique opportunity for families to learn about seasonal produce while enjoying live music, vendor specials, and educational displays. Whether you are looking to shop for fresh local meat and vegetables or seeking a fun outing for your children, there is something for everyone to enjoy at the Carrboro Town Commons. We invite you to bring your family and participate in these free, enriching experiences. Check our official calendar for specific event dates and follow our newsletter for the latest updates. Join us this week to support your local food system and create lasting memories with your neighbors.

Experience the vibrant community atmosphere at the Carrboro Farmers Market, where local agriculture meets family fun. Our Market Bunch program offers engaging activities every Wednesday from April through November, focusing on sustainability, healthy eating, and creative arts. These interactive sessions are designed to inspire young minds while connecting them with the farmers and artisans who grow our food. Beyond our weekly sessions, the market hosts a variety of seasonal celebrations including Kids Seedling Day, the Strawberry Jamboree, and our popular Tomato Day. These events provide a unique opportunity for families to learn about seasonal produce while enjoying live music, vendor specials, and educational displays. Whether you are looking to shop for fresh local meat and vegetables or seeking a fun outing for your children, there is something for everyone to enjoy at the Carrboro Town Commons. We invite you to bring your family and participate in these free, enriching experiences. Check our official calendar for specific event dates and follow our newsletter for the latest updates. Join us this week to support your local food system and create lasting memories with your neighbors.

Experience the vibrant spirit of sustainable agriculture at the Raleigh City Farm weekly farm stand. Located on a beautifully reclaimed urban lot in downtown Raleigh, this community initiative invites you to purchase fresh, seasonal produce harvested directly from our site. Our unique pay what you can model ensures that healthy, locally grown food remains accessible to all neighbors, reflecting our commitment to cultivating both land and community connection. Whether you are looking for fresh vegetables or simply want to support local urban farming, this is the perfect mid-week stop for your household needs. Beyond our produce offerings, we invite you to participate in our Wine and Weeds program held simultaneously on Wednesday evenings. This engaging gathering allows volunteers to learn about regenerative agriculture while enjoying a refreshing beverage and building friendships. We encourage you to visit our website to secure your spot for upcoming sessions and to learn more about our mission to grow the next generation of farmers. Join us between April and October to celebrate local growth and community resilience. We look forward to seeing you at 800 North Blount Street.

Experience the vibrant energy of the Saturdays in Saxapahaw concert series, an exceptional community gathering held outside the scenic Haw River Ballroom in North Carolina. Running every Saturday from May 2 through August 29, 2026, this recurring event offers a perfect way to spend your summer evenings surrounded by live music, local culture, and beautiful outdoor scenery. Starting at 5 p.m., attendees can explore a bustling farmers market and enjoy delicious selections from various food trucks, creating a delightful atmosphere for friends and families alike. The live musical performances begin promptly at 6 p.m., featuring talented artists who contribute to the festive spirit of this beloved local tradition. Please note that the inaugural event on May 2 will feature the special Haw River Festival held from 4 to 8 p.m. Admission to the series is completely free, though voluntary donations are highly appreciated to support the ongoing efforts of the organizers. We encourage you to visit the Haw River Ballroom official Facebook page for the latest updates and performance details. Join us this summer to celebrate music and community in the heart of Saxapahaw.