Nothing Bundt Cakes National Bring the Joy Day Giveaway

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.

Bottle Theory, located at 3675 Green Level West Road in Apex, invites you to experience a vibrant calendar of community-focused events designed for every taste. Whether you are a wine enthusiast, a music lover, or looking for family fun, our venue offers a welcoming atmosphere for everyone in the Triangle area. From our popular complimentary Friday wine tastings to lively music bingo nights and inclusive community run clubs, there is always something exciting happening on our patio and inside our space. We pride ourselves on hosting a diverse array of gatherings, including themed holiday celebrations, trivia nights, and board game meetups that foster local connection. With regular visits from top local food trucks and a curated selection of beverages, it is the perfect destination for a relaxing evening out. We encourage you to check our full calendar online to stay updated on our rotating selection of events and special themed nights. Join us this week to experience great company and discover your new favorite bottle. We look forward to welcoming you to Bottle Theory soon.

This pottery painting workshop is a mobile creative experience hosted by Cozy Panda Event Co at Fortnight Brewing Co. It provides an opportunity to select a hand-poured ceramic piece and paint it on-site in a relaxed community setting. Participants receive a ceramic piece of their choice, all necessary painting supplies, and ninety minutes of guided time. The session is self-paced, allowing guests to decorate their items with individual designs or colors. Expert staff remain present to provide encouragement and artistic tips throughout the event. Drinks are available for purchase from the brewery to enjoy while you work. This event is open to individuals, couples, families, and groups looking for a creative outlet. No previous artistic experience is required, making it suitable for all skill levels. The atmosphere is laid-back and social, perfect for a girls night, a date, or a fun afternoon activity. Attendees take their finished creations home immediately after the session concludes. Join us to unwind and explore your creativity in a welcoming, mobile studio environment.

Carson Mac returns to the stage for a highly anticipated live performance. This event serves as a platform for fans to experience his latest musical compositions and signature sound in a dynamic concert setting. Attendees can expect a high-energy setlist that highlights both his classic hits and new material. The production features top-tier audio and visual elements designed to create an immersive atmosphere for everyone in attendance. This performance offers a rare opportunity to connect with the artist and fellow enthusiasts in an intimate venue space. It is an essential event for music lovers who appreciate live talent and authentic stage presence. The evening promises a streamlined experience focused on high-quality performance and artistic expression. Whether you are a long-time follower or new to his work, this show provides a memorable night of entertainment. Secure your tickets early to ensure your place at this limited engagement. Join us for a standout evening as Carson Mac brings his unique style back to the local stage.

Experience an evening of inspiration at the Eno Arts Mill in Hillsborough, a vibrant hub managed by the Orange County Arts Commission. On September 4 from 6 to 9 p.m., join us for a special First Friday celebration featuring the captivating Colors of Soul exhibit, curated by the Inter-Latin American Artist Collective. This event brings together an impressive lineup of talented local creators to share their vision with the community. The evening promises a dynamic blend of visual arts, live musical performances, and poetic expressions. Beyond the main exhibit, attendees can explore open artist studios and discover the diverse range of creative workshops available, spanning from fiber arts to figure drawing. It is the perfect opportunity to engage with local culture and support regional artists in a unique historic setting. 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.

Experience the vibrant energy of community music making at the One Tribe Drum Circle held at the scenic Dix Park Stone Houses Visitor Center in Raleigh. Taking place on the first Friday of every month from June through November, these sessions offer a unique opportunity to connect with others through the power of rhythm. Whether you are an experienced percussionist or a complete beginner, all are welcome to participate in this uplifting and stress-relieving activity. You are encouraged to bring your own hand percussion instruments, though One Tribe provides plenty of gear for those who do not have their own. Seating is provided for your convenience, ensuring a comfortable environment for everyone to enjoy the music. This inclusive event is designed to promote self-expression and foster local connections in a beautiful outdoor setting. While registration is requested, the organizers welcome drop-in attendees even if the event appears sold out online. Join us for this accessible and rhythmic celebration of community spirit. For the latest updates and additional details, please follow One Tribe on their official social media pages.

The Cozy Cryptid Fall Market is a curated shopping event held in October that focuses on mythical creatures and autumn themes. This market serves as a community gathering for fans of folklore and local artistry to celebrate the Halloween season. Attendees can browse collections from thirty local artists and makers. The vendors will feature unique, cryptid-themed creations and seasonal Halloween art. The event provides an opportunity to purchase handcrafted goods directly from creators while enjoying a focused, thematic shopping experience. The layout is designed to facilitate easy navigation for all guests visiting the market stalls. This event is ideal for anyone interested in supporting local small businesses and discovering niche artistic interpretations of mythical beings. The atmosphere is intended to be welcoming and festive, providing a relaxed environment to browse and shop. Whether you are an enthusiast of urban legends or simply looking for seasonal home goods, this market offers a distinct collection of items you will not find elsewhere. Please mark your calendar and join us to support our creative community and celebrate the spirit of the fall season.

Celebrate the end of summer at the Free Community Labor Day Cookout hosted by Calvary Presbyterian Church. This gathering is designed to bring our neighbors together for an afternoon of camaraderie, delicious food, and festive spirits. Located at 5620 Ray Road in Raleigh, the event runs from 10:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Monday, September 7, 2026. It is a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the holiday weekend in a welcoming environment while connecting with local residents. Our cookout is open to everyone, making it the perfect destination for families, friends, and individuals looking for a fun and relaxed atmosphere. We invite you to join us for a meal as we commemorate the significance of Labor Day with our community. Whether you are seeking a place to enjoy a pleasant outdoor lunch or simply want to meet new people, this event promises to be a highlight of your long weekend. Please mark your calendars, bring your loved ones, and join us for this special neighborhood tradition. We look forward to seeing you there for a day of celebration and unity.

Join the welcoming community at Elizabeth Street United Methodist Church in Durham for their ongoing efforts to support neighbors through food access. The church hosts monthly food distributions, providing essential groceries to those in need on a first-come, first-served basis. Participants are encouraged to arrive early to secure a spot for the drive-through service, which operates efficiently to ensure everyone is served with dignity and care. Volunteers are always appreciated for those looking to give back and support the local community. In addition to distributions, the church opens its doors for monthly community meals, creating a space for connection and shared experiences. The upcoming event features a special theme celebrating diversity and inclusion through a vibrant menu of colorful dishes. These gatherings are completely free, open to everyone, and require no advance registration. Whether you are seeking assistance or looking to enjoy a warm meal in a friendly environment, you are invited to participate. Visit the Elizabeth Street United Methodist Church Facebook page to stay updated on schedule changes and upcoming menu themes.

Join the Town of Chapel Hill and the Food Bank of Central and Eastern North Carolina for our recurring community food distribution events. These sessions are held on the second and fourth Wednesday of every month at the Eubanks Park and Ride lot. Our mission is to provide essential nutritional support to all community members in need, ensuring that local families have access to supplemental groceries in a convenient and welcoming environment. We encourage all participants to bring their own bags or boxes to help facilitate a smoother distribution process. These events are made possible through the generous dedication of our volunteers and collaborative partners. If you are looking for a meaningful way to give back, we invite you to sign up to volunteer and assist with our site operations. Your time and energy make a significant impact on the well-being of our neighbors. For those requiring more immediate or ongoing assistance, please visit the official Food Bank website to utilize their comprehensive locator tool by entering your zip code. We look forward to seeing you there and working together to foster a stronger, healthier Chapel Hill for everyone.