Papercraft Snake Plant Workshop

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 Downtown Cary Park horticulturist Patrick McMillan for an educational tour of the park aquatic plant collection. This event focuses on the peak flowering season of our stunning lotus blossoms and provides an in-depth look at local aquatic ecosystems. Participants will explore the unique biological adaptations of these plants and their essential roles within our local wildlife habitats. During the tour, you will examine the structural complexity of these water-dwelling species. Patrick McMillan will share insights into the fascinating history and lore surrounding these plants while highlighting their connection to the Triangle region. You will see firsthand how these botanical displays function as both ornamental beauty and vital environmental infrastructure for local fauna. This event is designed for nature enthusiasts, garden hobbyists, and anyone curious about urban horticulture. The atmosphere is professional, educational, and highly engaging for those who appreciate the natural world. Please wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking along the park pathways. Spaces are limited, so we encourage you to reserve your spot early to experience this aquatic display at its absolute peak. We look forward to exploring the magic of these plants with you soon.

Toddler Tuesday: Wild Neighbors is an educational nature program hosted by the Piedmont Wildlife Center designed for young children. This event provides an engaging introduction to local wildlife through direct observation and guided learning. The thirty minute interactive presentation features live animal encounters with a rabbit, a snake, and an owl. Participants have the unique opportunity to see these animals up close and learn about their natural habitats. Following the demonstration, attendees will participate in a guided hands-on craft activity related to the days nature theme. These sessions are structured to keep young children attentive and involved throughout the experience. This event is specifically designed for toddlers who are curious about the natural world. The atmosphere is welcoming, safe, and focused on age appropriate learning. It offers a structured way to introduce children to animal welfare and biology in a manageable format. Parents and guardians looking for an informative and active summer morning activity are encouraged to attend. Please arrive on time to ensure you do not miss any part of the animal presentation as seating is limited.

This hands-on candle making workshop invites participants to design and craft a unique, personalized candle from start to finish. Our instructor guides you through the entire creative process, ensuring you learn the fundamental techniques required to produce high-quality home fragrance products. The workshop provides all necessary materials and tools in a structured, accessible environment. During the session, you will select your preferred scents and decorative elements to customize your creation. You will master the basics of wax melting, fragrance blending, and container preparation. By the end of the class, you will have a finished candle to take home. This experience emphasizes practical skill building and creativity in an interactive setting. This event is designed for beginners and anyone interested in learning a new craft. The atmosphere is casual, supportive, and focused on providing a rewarding creative outlet. No prior experience is required to participate successfully. Spaces are limited, so we encourage you to register early to secure your spot. Join us to enjoy a fun, productive session and leave with a personalized item you created yourself.

The Soap Making Workshop at Fenton is a hands-on event celebrating National Wellness Month through the craft of creating artisan goat milk soap. This session allows participants to disconnect from their daily routine and engage in a relaxing, creative process to produce high-quality personal care products. Attendees receive guided step-by-step instruction on soap-making techniques using premium goat milk bases. Participants can customize their soaps with a curated selection of natural fragrances, botanicals, and exfoliants to match their personal preferences. Every guest will leave with one or two unique, handcrafted soaps that are ready for personal use or gifting. The workshop covers the specific benefits of goat milk ingredients while focusing on practical craftsmanship. This event is designed for beginners and anyone looking for a creative outlet in a supportive environment. The atmosphere is calm and intended to foster meaningful connection without the pressure of achieving perfection. Whether you are interested in artisanal techniques or simply seeking a wellness-focused activity, this workshop provides a balanced experience. Register today to secure your spot and enjoy an afternoon dedicated to learning, creativity, and self-care.

This hands-on candle making workshop invites participants to design and craft a unique, personalized candle from start to finish. Our instructor guides you through the entire creative process, ensuring you learn the fundamental techniques required to produce high-quality home fragrance products. The workshop provides all necessary materials and tools in a structured, accessible environment. During the session, you will select your preferred scents and decorative elements to customize your creation. You will master the basics of wax melting, fragrance blending, and container preparation. By the end of the class, you will have a finished candle to take home. This experience emphasizes practical skill building and creativity in an interactive setting. This event is designed for beginners and anyone interested in learning a new craft. The atmosphere is casual, supportive, and focused on providing a rewarding creative outlet. No prior experience is required to participate successfully. Spaces are limited, so we encourage you to register early to secure your spot. Join us to enjoy a fun, productive session and leave with a personalized item you created yourself.

Ladies Night Little Sweetness is an interactive social gathering focused on creativity and relaxation. This event provides a dedicated space for friends to connect while engaging in hands-on artistic projects and culinary activities. It serves as an ideal break for those looking to unwind after the work week in a friendly environment. Participants will enjoy a guided session of pottery painting combined with professional cupcake decorating instructions. The evening is designed to offer a balanced mix of artistic expression and social interaction. Attendees are encouraged to bring their preferred food and beverages to enjoy throughout the session, creating a personalized happy hour experience tailored to their preferences. This event is perfect for small groups of friends or coworkers seeking a productive yet lighthearted atmosphere. It offers a structured way to learn new skills while building lasting memories. To secure your participation, please register through our online portal. A ten dollar deposit is required at the time of booking to reserve your spot. This amount will be applied directly to your final bill during the event.

Join Downtown Cary Park horticulturist Patrick McMillan for an educational tour of the park aquatic plant collection. This event focuses on the peak flowering season of our stunning lotus blossoms and provides an in-depth look at local aquatic ecosystems. Participants will explore the unique biological adaptations of these plants and their essential roles within our local wildlife habitats. During the tour, you will examine the structural complexity of these water-dwelling species. Patrick McMillan will share insights into the fascinating history and lore surrounding these plants while highlighting their connection to the Triangle region. You will see firsthand how these botanical displays function as both ornamental beauty and vital environmental infrastructure for local fauna. This event is designed for nature enthusiasts, garden hobbyists, and anyone curious about urban horticulture. The atmosphere is professional, educational, and highly engaging for those who appreciate the natural world. Please wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking along the park pathways. Spaces are limited, so we encourage you to reserve your spot early to experience this aquatic display at its absolute peak. We look forward to exploring the magic of these plants with you soon.

Nature Play Day at NCMA is a free outdoor event designed to encourage children to explore the natural world through hands-on play. This monthly drop-in program transforms the museum park into an engaging environment filled with creative materials and outdoor resources for participants to enjoy at their own pace. Attendees can expect a rotating selection of activity supplies including fort-building equipment, puppets, costumes, bubbles, and painting stations. A dedicated play facilitator from Prairie Ridge will be on-site throughout the event to guide activities and ensure a positive experience for all participants. These materials change monthly to keep the environment fresh and exciting for frequent visitors. This program is specifically designed for children ages seven and younger, though all are welcome to attend. The event takes place entirely outdoors, so please dress appropriately for the current weather conditions and prepare for the possibility of getting messy during play. Join us at the park to foster your childs curiosity and imagination in a supportive outdoor setting. We look forward to seeing your family for an afternoon of discovery and exploration.

RipTide Car Wash is thrilled to bring back a popular community favorite for the second consecutive year. Throughout the entire month of August 2026, all local teachers and dedicated school staff members are invited to enjoy a complimentary car wash as a token of appreciation for their hard work and commitment to education. This special promotion is available at any RipTide Car Wash location, making it convenient for educators across the Triangle area to take advantage of this refreshing offer. To redeem your free wash, simply present your valid school identification at any of the participating locations in Durham or Raleigh. Whether you are prepping for the new academic term or just need to keep your vehicle clean during the busy back to school season, this is a fantastic way to enjoy a premium service at no cost. We encourage all eligible staff members to visit their nearest site throughout August to experience the quality and care that RipTide provides. Please visit the official RipTide Car Wash website to view the full list of branch locations and plan your visit today.