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.

Horsegirls is a compelling film screening that follows the journey of Margarita, a twenty-two-year-old woman on the autism spectrum. As she navigates the challenges of her mother’s illness, she discovers the empowering world of hobby-horsing to assert her independence. This event explores themes of personal growth, resilience, and finding community through unexpected passions. Attendees will watch a narrative centered on the unique intersection of hobby-horsing and self-discovery. The film highlights the physical and emotional dedication involved in this niche sport. You will witness Margarita’s transition from uncertainty to confidence as she masters her craft with her stick horse. The presentation offers a clear, honest look at the life of a young woman striving for agency in a demanding world. This screening is intended for film enthusiasts, advocates for neurodiversity, and anyone interested in stories of human perseverance. The atmosphere is thoughtful and welcoming, encouraging viewers to engage with the narrative’s emotional depth. Join us to experience this moving story of independence and courage. Reserve your seat now to see why this film is resonating with audiences everywhere.

National Night Out is an annual nationwide campaign focused on strengthening the partnership between local residents and law enforcement. This community building event aims to foster safer neighborhoods through positive interactions and improved communication between citizens and police officers. Attendees can explore police operations through informative safety demonstrations and up close displays of emergency vehicles and equipment. The event features live music, entertainment, and various food options for all ages. Special guests including McGruff the Crime Dog will be in attendance. You will have direct opportunities to meet members of the Fuquay-Varina Police Department to ask questions and build personal rapport with your local officers in a relaxed setting. This event is designed for families and individuals who want to engage with their community and support local public safety efforts. The atmosphere is welcoming and geared toward promoting unity, awareness, and neighborhood pride. We encourage all community members to participate in this evening of education and connection. Join your neighbors to help make our town a safer and more connected place to live for everyone.

Join the Fuquay-Varina Police Department for an engaging and community-focused National Night Out celebration on Friday, August 21, 2026. This dynamic event is designed to foster meaningful connections between local law enforcement and the citizens they serve, promoting a shared commitment to safety and neighborhood awareness. Held in the Target parking lot at 3200 Gold Ring Road, this gathering offers a wonderful opportunity for residents to meet officers in a relaxed and friendly environment. Families and individuals of all ages are encouraged to participate in this energetic evening, which runs from 5 to 8 p.m. Attendees will benefit from informative interactions, community-building activities, and the chance to stand together for a safer and more connected Fuquay-Varina. Whether you are looking to learn more about local safety programs or simply want to engage with your neighbors, this event is the perfect venue for community spirit. Mark your calendars today and come out to show your support for this important local initiative. We look forward to seeing the entire community represented at this exciting and essential neighborhood event.

Experience the vibrant energy of the Cary Night Market, a premier monthly gathering held at the beautiful Downtown Cary Park. From March through December 2025, excluding July, visitors are invited to explore a curated selection of forty-five to fifty local vendors each Friday evening from 5 to 9 p.m. This recurring event celebrates community spirit by showcasing talented artisans, creative crafters, and delicious offerings from popular local food trucks. Whether you are searching for one-of-a-kind handmade goods or simply looking to enjoy a pleasant evening outdoors, this market offers something for everyone. Beyond the diverse shopping opportunities, many of our evening markets feature exciting seasonal themes and additional interactive activities to enhance your experience. It is the perfect opportunity to support small businesses and connect with local creators in the heart of the Triangle area. Do not miss your chance to be a part of this growing local tradition. We encourage you to visit our website today to view our full schedule and plan your visit to the next market event.

Experience the vibrant spirit of North Carolina at the Saturdays in Saxapahaw concert series. Held outside the iconic Haw River Ballroom, this recurring event transforms Saturday evenings from May 2 through August 29, 2026, into a celebration of music, community, and local flavor. Guests are invited to enjoy live performances starting at 6 p.m., while browsing an array of local vendors at the integrated farmers market. With delicious offerings from various food trucks available between 5 p.m. and 8 p.m., it is the perfect destination for an evening out under the open sky. This series offers a fantastic opportunity to unwind and appreciate talented musicians in a beautiful outdoor setting. While the concerts are free to attend, voluntary donations are greatly appreciated to help support the continuation of these local performances. Please note that for the safety and comfort of all attendees, dogs are not permitted at this event. Make sure to gather your friends and family for an unforgettable weekend tradition. For the latest updates and performance schedules, visit the Haw River Ballroom official Facebook page and join us in Saxapahaw.

Experience the vibrant community spirit at the Black Farmers Market in Raleigh. This recurring event serves as a crucial platform for supporting local Black farmers and entrepreneurs who contribute unique, high-quality products to the Triangle area. By shopping at this market, you are directly investing in the growth and sustainability of family-owned farms that have historically faced significant systemic challenges. It is a fantastic way to connect with your neighbors while enjoying fresh, locally sourced goods. The market fosters a collaborative environment where residents can celebrate local talent and build a stronger, more equitable food system together. Whether you are looking for fresh produce, artisan crafts, or simply want to show your support for Black business owners, there is something for everyone to enjoy. These gatherings are held regularly and provide a welcoming space for all members of the community. We encourage you to join us this Sunday for an afternoon of local shopping and community building. Visit the official Facebook page to confirm the specific dates and location details for the next gathering. We look forward to seeing you there.

The Great Southeast Pollinator Census is a community science initiative hosted at the Apex Nature Park Pollinator Garden. Participants contribute to regional environmental research by counting pollinators visiting native flowers to track population trends across the Southeast. This event turns local observation into valuable ecological data used by scientists to better understand pollinator health. Attendees engage in a structured fifteen minute observation period led by experienced guides who explain how to identify and record various insect species. After completing your count, you are encouraged to remain in the garden to explore the diverse plant life or walk the adjacent nature trails. This experience provides a hands-on look at the vital role pollinators play in our local ecosystem. This event is open to everyone regardless of prior scientific experience or knowledge of insects. It offers a calm and educational atmosphere ideal for families, nature enthusiasts, and curious community members. Join us to make a direct impact on conservation efforts while enjoying a morning outdoors. Please register through the official website to secure your spot for this meaningful neighborhood project.

National Senior Citizens Day 2026 is a dedicated community celebration honoring the contributions and experiences of our senior citizens. This event serves as a platform to foster connection, appreciation, and joy through a curated day of social activities and shared experiences. Attendees can look forward to an engaging lineup of carnival style games designed for all skill levels and physical abilities. A complimentary lunch will be provided for all guests, offering a relaxed environment to socialize with friends and neighbors. The atmosphere is intended to be lighthearted and communal, prioritizing comfort and accessibility for all participants. This gathering is specifically designed for seniors looking to enjoy a day of entertainment and camaraderie in a welcoming setting. We invite you to join us for this special occasion to celebrate our community members and enjoy a day planned with your interests in mind. Please mark your calendars and prepare for a rewarding day of fun. We look forward to welcoming you to this celebratory event and ensuring a memorable experience for everyone involved.

Join us for a Learning Lunch dedicated to National Water Quality Month. This session focuses on the critical importance of protecting our water resources and understanding current environmental standards. Our goal is to provide a clear look at how water quality affects our local community and the broader ecosystem. During the event, we will host a lively discussion led by a subject matter expert in environmental science. Attendees can expect a concise presentation followed by an interactive question and answer session. The expert will cover current challenges, recent technological advancements in water filtration, and practical ways to support conservation efforts. This is an excellent opportunity to gain technical insights in an accessible format. This event is designed for professionals and community members who are interested in environmental health and sustainability. The atmosphere will be collaborative and informative, making it a productive way to spend your lunch hour. Please bring your own lunch and join the conversation. We look forward to your participation as we explore these vital topics together. Register today to secure your place in this important educational session.