Museums on Us: Complimentary Admission at Marbles Kids 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.

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.

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.

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.

History at High Noon is a virtual lunchtime lecture series hosted by the North Carolina Museum of History. This session explores the history of Operation Bumblebee, a top secret project conducted by the US Navy during the late 1940s on a North Carolina barrier island. Attendees will learn about the seven remaining concrete towers that served as testing grounds for experimental propulsion systems. The presentation covers how these covert naval developments revolutionized ship defense mechanisms. Participants will also discover how this research provided the essential foundation for later supersonic flight and advancements in outer space exploration. The lecture provides a detailed look at a significant but often overlooked chapter of military and technological history. This event is designed for history enthusiasts, technology buffs, and anyone interested in local North Carolina research. The atmosphere is educational, accessible, and perfect for a mid day break. Join us to uncover the story behind these mysterious towers and gain insight into the innovations that shaped modern aviation. Register online today to secure your spot for this informative virtual session.

History at High Noon is a virtual lunchtime lecture series hosted by the North Carolina Museum of History. This session explores the history of Operation Bumblebee, a top secret project conducted by the US Navy during the late 1940s on a North Carolina barrier island. Attendees will learn about the seven remaining concrete towers that served as testing grounds for experimental propulsion systems. The presentation covers how these covert naval developments revolutionized ship defense mechanisms. Participants will also discover how this research provided the essential foundation for later supersonic flight and advancements in outer space exploration. The lecture provides a detailed look at a significant but often overlooked chapter of military and technological history. This event is designed for history enthusiasts, technology buffs, and anyone interested in local North Carolina research. The atmosphere is educational, accessible, and perfect for a mid day break. Join us to uncover the story behind these mysterious towers and gain insight into the innovations that shaped modern aviation. Register online today to secure your spot for this informative virtual session.

Join the Dr. M.T. Pope House Museum for an engaging monthly literary series titled Evelyn's Book Club. This program honors the legacy of Evelyn Pope, a dedicated college librarian who possessed a lifelong passion for diverse literature. The club gathers community members at the historic museum to discuss impactful works, specifically focusing on books by Black authors or those centered on Black subjects. Each session features thoughtful discussion questions to foster deep conversation and connection among participants. The series runs throughout the year and explores a variety of genres including fiction and non-fiction. Whether you are a fan of classic literature or modern narratives, this club offers a welcoming space for thoughtful dialogue and community building. Participation is free and open to adults eighteen and older, though registration is required to attend. An optional book bundle is available for purchase during registration for your convenience. Do not miss this opportunity to celebrate literacy and local history in a unique setting. Register today to secure your spot and join the conversation in Raleigh.

Birdwatching for Beginners is an introductory outdoor program designed to teach you the fundamentals of identifying local bird species. The event focuses on providing practical skills for those new to birding in an approachable and supportive environment. Participants will engage in a guided walk covering approximately one mile of diverse terrain. We will observe various habitats to locate birds while practicing identification techniques. You will also learn about collaborative science projects and how to contribute your observational data to real research initiatives. This hands-on experience provides a meaningful way to engage with the natural environment while building your knowledge of local wildlife. This event is open to everyone ages eight and older. It offers a relaxed and steady pace suitable for all skill levels. If you are interested in learning a new hobby that connects you with nature and supports scientific research, this session is an excellent starting point. We invite you to join us for an informative outing. Please come prepared for a moderate walk outdoors. We look forward to exploring the local landscape with you and identifying the species that call it home.