Pirates and Mermaids Holiday Market at Haven Farm

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.

Experience the rich agricultural heritage of Johnston County at the 77th annual Benson Mule Days, running from Thursday, September 24, to Sunday, September 27, 2026. Located just a short drive south of Raleigh in the charming town of Benson, this historic festival celebrates the significant role the mule has played in our rural farming history. This multi-day celebration offers a vibrant atmosphere filled with entertainment for all ages. Visitors can look forward to a packed schedule featuring exciting rodeos, lively musical performances, a traditional parade, carnival rides, and a diverse array of local art and vendors. The event spans across downtown Benson and the Chamber Park Arena, offering a mix of ticketed attractions and complimentary activities. Guests are invited to enjoy the parade, live music, trolley rides, and stable tours at no additional cost, making it an accessible outing for the entire community. Whether you are a local resident or a visitor, this festival provides a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in southern culture. Plan your trip to Benson today and join us for this beloved tradition. Visit our website for a complete schedule of events and ticket information.

Explore S'more is a free community gathering held in celebration of Take a Child Outside Week. This outdoor event encourages families to disconnect from technology and engage directly with the natural world in a local park setting. Attendees can participate in a variety of hands on nature education stations designed to spark curiosity about local wildlife and ecosystems. The schedule features interactive games that promote active play for children and adults alike. As the evening progresses guests will gather around a communal campfire to roast s'mores while sharing stories and connecting with neighbors. These activities provide a practical way to learn about environmental stewardship through direct experience. This event is open to families of all ages and abilities who enjoy spending time in the fresh air. The atmosphere is casual and designed to foster community bonds in a relaxed environment. We invite you to join us for an evening of learning and outdoor exploration. Please bring weather appropriate clothing and prepare for an evening on the grass. We look forward to seeing you at the fire for this unique educational celebration.

The Educator Open House and SciREN Triangle Networking Event is an annual information exchange designed specifically for K through 12 educators. This evening provides a platform to connect with local scientists, museum staff, and educational partners to discover free classroom resources and professional development opportunities. Attendees can access curriculum-correlated lesson plans based on current scientific research and discuss classroom implementation directly with experts. The program includes dinner and beverages provided by local sponsors. Participants will also have the opportunity to take guided tours of museum galleries, learn about upcoming field trips, and explore new outreach programs. Digital access to all shared lesson materials is included for every teacher in attendance. This event is ideal for educators looking to integrate real-world science into their curricula while expanding their professional network in a relaxed setting. It offers a unique environment to rejuvenate teaching strategies and foster community connections. Join us to gather practical tools and resources that will enhance your students learning experience. We look forward to hosting you for this productive night of networking and collaboration.

Taste Of Chaos live at The Ritz in Raleigh on Wednesday, September 23, 2026 at 4:00 PM. All ages.

James and Joel Great American Songwriters is a musical tribute concert dedicated to the legendary catalogues of James Taylor and Billy Joel. This event showcases the enduring impact of these iconic American artists through live performances of their most celebrated hits. Award winning songwriter and multi instrumentalist Clay Mottley performs a selection of timeless classics including Fire and Rain Carolina in My Mind Piano Man and She is Always a Woman. Mottley delivers these songs with fresh arrangements that highlight his musical proficiency and deep personal appreciation for both songwriters. Attendees can expect an intimate evening focused on storytelling through melody and lyrical mastery. This show is designed for fans of classic soft rock and singer songwriter traditions who appreciate skilled musicianship. The atmosphere is professional and engaging making it an ideal outing for music lovers looking to enjoy a high quality performance in a comfortable setting. Secure your tickets now to experience this heartfelt tribute to two of the most influential figures in music history. Join us for an evening of familiar favorites and masterful live artistry.

This concert features a high energy lineup of hardcore punk bands performing live at the venue. Fans of aggressive music and the underground scene should attend to see a collection of prominent touring acts and regional favorites in one setting. The event serves as a showcase for established bands and emerging talent within the hardcore community. The performance features Seattle legends Iron Lung headlining the night. They are joined by Washington DC hardcore group Hologram, Charlotte based band Cause of Death, and the Raleigh punk outfit Plastique Pigs. Attendees can expect a fast paced show with back to back sets from each act. This lineup offers a diverse range of sounds from within the hardcore genre. This show is intended for music fans who appreciate loud and intense live performances. The atmosphere will be energetic and focused on the music. Please arrive early to ensure you catch every band on the schedule. Tickets are available for purchase online and at the door while supplies last. Join us for a night of live music and support these touring artists.

The Downtown Business Mixer is a professional networking event designed to connect local entrepreneurs and industry leaders. Our purpose is to foster meaningful relationships within the city business community through structured yet relaxed interaction in a central downtown venue. Attendees will enjoy an evening featuring a curated selection of cocktails and mocktails. The program focuses on open conversation and peer-to-peer engagement. We are also hosting a community raffle basket to support local initiatives. Guests are encouraged to bring a contribution for the raffle to help make this collection a success. This activity offers a great opportunity to showcase your business or brand to fellow professionals in a casual setting. This event is tailored for business owners, startup founders, and corporate professionals looking to expand their local network. The atmosphere is energetic, welcoming, and conducive to building lasting professional ties. We invite you to step away from your desk and join us for an evening of productive social engagement. Please register early to secure your spot and participate in the raffle. We look forward to seeing you there and facilitating connections that help our local economy grow.

Join us for an exclusive evening dedicated to the craft of Penelope Bourbon. This dinner event explores the heritage and innovation behind the brand founded by Mike Paladini and Danny Polise. Guests will enjoy a guided tasting of three core series whiskeys paired with a multi-course meal designed to complement the spirit profiles. Special guest speaker Ryan Mills will lead the evening by sharing the stories and technical creation processes behind each bottle. The menu features a pear-infused welcome cocktail, a farro grain salad, orange hibiscus glazed duck breast, and a dessert of bergamot spiced olive oil cake. Each course is carefully matched with a specific Penelope expression to highlight unique tasting notes, including the Architect, Barrel Strength 7 year, and Toasted bourbon. This event is perfect for bourbon enthusiasts and anyone interested in learning about the art of whiskey blending in a social, educational setting. Enjoy an atmosphere of discovery while connecting with fellow connoisseurs. Tickets are limited for this intimate experience. We encourage you to reserve your seat soon to secure your place at this refined tasting dinner.

Explore S'more is a free community gathering held in celebration of Take a Child Outside Week. This outdoor event encourages families to disconnect from technology and engage directly with the natural world in a local park setting. Attendees can participate in a variety of hands on nature education stations designed to spark curiosity about local wildlife and ecosystems. The schedule features interactive games that promote active play for children and adults alike. As the evening progresses guests will gather around a communal campfire to roast s'mores while sharing stories and connecting with neighbors. These activities provide a practical way to learn about environmental stewardship through direct experience. This event is open to families of all ages and abilities who enjoy spending time in the fresh air. The atmosphere is casual and designed to foster community bonds in a relaxed environment. We invite you to join us for an evening of learning and outdoor exploration. Please bring weather appropriate clothing and prepare for an evening on the grass. We look forward to seeing you at the fire for this unique educational celebration.

Total Tot Time offers an engaging and inclusive environment for children ages five and under along with their parents or caregivers. Held at the W.D. Hill Recreation Center in Durham, this recurring program provides a perfect space for little ones to socialize, explore, and stay active in a safe, indoor setting. The gymnasium is transformed into a playground where children can enjoy fun activities like tunnels, parachutes, and active games designed to foster development and joy. This community-focused initiative is entirely free and requires no advance registration, making it a convenient option for local families looking to spend quality time together. Whether your child is learning to crawl or ready to jump and bowl, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Join us every Monday and Wednesday morning to build connections and create lasting memories in an energetic setting. We encourage all parents and guardians to stop by and participate in this wonderful opportunity for early childhood interaction. We look forward to seeing your family there for a morning of active play and community building.

The City of Raleigh Solid Waste Services team is hosting a giveaway event at Millbrook Exchange Park to provide residents with free biodegradable paper yard waste bags. This initiative supports the city goal of efficient waste management by supplying tools for proper yard debris disposal this fall. Each attendee will receive five free bags while supplies last. During the event, staff members will be available to answer questions regarding the new Enhanced Weekly Yard Waste Pickup service. You can learn how this program impacts your routine and how to participate correctly. The primary goal is to provide useful resources directly to the community while ensuring residents feel informed and prepared for the upcoming season of yard maintenance. This event is perfect for Raleigh residents looking to maintain their property efficiently and sustainably. It offers a quick, convenient opportunity to gather supplies and gain clarity on city service updates. Please join us at the park to pick up your bags and speak with our team. We look forward to assisting you with your waste management needs and providing helpful information for your home and local environment.

Migrating Monarchs is an educational program exploring the annual journey of Monarch butterflies as they travel south. Participants will discover the critical role of protected habitats in sustaining this migration while learning about local conservation efforts at Prairie Ridge. The event provides a hands-on look at the environments that support these pollinators during their long trek. The experience begins in the Nature Neighborhood Garden to examine habitat stewardship. We will then transition into the prairie to observe and count butterflies in the wild. Attendees may have the chance to assist in catching and releasing live Monarchs for data collection. Throughout the session, we will introduce collaborative science initiatives like the Monarch Larvae Monitoring Project and Monarch Watch. These activities demonstrate how public participation contributes to meaningful environmental research and data gathering. This family friendly program is designed for nature enthusiasts of all ages interested in wildlife conservation. You will gain a deeper understanding of butterfly ecology and the importance of native plant spaces. Join us to support these essential pollinators and contribute to ongoing scientific research. Please prepare for time spent outdoors in the prairie.

This workshop provides a guided introduction to stained glass art through the creation of a vintage haunts cat piece. Participants will gain practical experience in fundamental glass techniques in a small group setting. The session serves as an accessible entry point for those interested in learning specialized craft skills. You will learn to foil, assemble, and solder glass components to finish your own unique decorative piece. An expert instructor will guide you through each stage of the process to ensure proper technique and safety. You will receive all necessary tools and materials during the class. By the end of the session, you will leave with a completed work of art ready for display. This event is designed for beginners and requires no prior artistic experience. With a strict limit of ten seats per session, each attendee receives personalized instruction in a focused and collaborative environment. This small group structure ensures that you receive direct feedback and assistance throughout the assembly process. Register now to secure your space and explore the rewarding craft of stained glass construction.

This workshop offers a unique hands-on experience where participants create their own stained glass art piece. The event combines creative craftsmanship with a fun social atmosphere designed for those looking to try a new artistic skill in a themed setting. Whether you are a beginner or have some artistic background, this session provides a structured environment to produce a custom handmade item to take home. During the class, you will learn essential stained glass techniques including foiling, assembling, and soldering. Our professional instructor will guide you through each phase of the process, ensuring you feel confident using the tools and materials provided. All necessary equipment is supplied on site, so you do not need to bring any specialized gear or prior experience to participate in this project. This event is perfect for individuals or couples seeking an engaging and memorable activity. Because we limit attendance to ten seats, you will receive personalized attention and plenty of space to work comfortably. Space is limited, so we encourage you to reserve your spot early to secure your place in this exclusive workshop.

Blacklight Pottery Painting is a creative workshop in Raleigh where participants paint ceramic pieces using glow-in-the-dark paint. Hosted by Cozy Panda Event Co., this experience allows guests to complete and take home a unique ceramic creation during a single session. Each ninety-minute session provides all necessary materials, including ceramic pieces, glow-in-the-dark paint, and a blacklight flashlight for special effects. The event is self-guided, though the Cozy Panda team remains present to provide helpful tips and artistic guidance throughout the evening. Attendees can enjoy drinks while they work, making this a relaxed and hands-on production environment. This event is designed for anyone looking for a fun evening activity, regardless of their past artistic experience. You do not need to bring any supplies or have previous painting skills to participate. The atmosphere is casual, social, and perfect for individuals or groups seeking a creative outlet. If you want to spend an evening exploring your imagination in a unique, illuminated setting, join us for this pottery painting session and take home your custom work of art today.

The City of Raleigh Solid Waste Services team is hosting a giveaway event at Millbrook Exchange Park to provide residents with free biodegradable paper yard waste bags. This initiative supports the city goal of efficient waste management by supplying tools for proper yard debris disposal this fall. Each attendee will receive five free bags while supplies last. During the event, staff members will be available to answer questions regarding the new Enhanced Weekly Yard Waste Pickup service. You can learn how this program impacts your routine and how to participate correctly. The primary goal is to provide useful resources directly to the community while ensuring residents feel informed and prepared for the upcoming season of yard maintenance. This event is perfect for Raleigh residents looking to maintain their property efficiently and sustainably. It offers a quick, convenient opportunity to gather supplies and gain clarity on city service updates. Please join us at the park to pick up your bags and speak with our team. We look forward to assisting you with your waste management needs and providing helpful information for your home and local environment.

Migrating Monarchs is an educational program exploring the annual journey of Monarch butterflies as they travel south. Participants will discover the critical role of protected habitats in sustaining this migration while learning about local conservation efforts at Prairie Ridge. The event provides a hands-on look at the environments that support these pollinators during their long trek. The experience begins in the Nature Neighborhood Garden to examine habitat stewardship. We will then transition into the prairie to observe and count butterflies in the wild. Attendees may have the chance to assist in catching and releasing live Monarchs for data collection. Throughout the session, we will introduce collaborative science initiatives like the Monarch Larvae Monitoring Project and Monarch Watch. These activities demonstrate how public participation contributes to meaningful environmental research and data gathering. This family friendly program is designed for nature enthusiasts of all ages interested in wildlife conservation. You will gain a deeper understanding of butterfly ecology and the importance of native plant spaces. Join us to support these essential pollinators and contribute to ongoing scientific research. Please prepare for time spent outdoors in the prairie.

The Fall Equinox Yoga Event is an outdoor wellness gathering designed to help participants navigate seasonal transitions through movement and reflection. This ninety minute session marks the shift from summer to autumn by aligning physical practice with the changing environment around us. The experience begins with an all levels flow that gradually transitions into restorative and yin inspired poses to encourage relaxation. Throughout the practice, guided journaling sessions will help attendees explore themes of adaptability and resilience. We conclude with a prolonged restorative Savasana followed by a social hour featuring tea and community conversation. This event is perfect for anyone seeking a mindful way to welcome the new season. The atmosphere is grounded, welcoming, and intentionally slow paced. Participants should arrive prepared for an outdoor setting and a reflective evening focused on personal growth and community connection. Whether you are looking to deepen your yoga practice or simply want a quiet space to process change, this event provides the tools to find your footing. Please register in advance to reserve your space for this evening of balance and mindful transition.

The Kids EveryWEAR consignment sale offers a massive selection of children's items ranging from newborn clothing to size 20 apparel. This recurring event features toys, nursery furniture, books, infant equipment, and outdoor play gear sourced from over one thousand local families. It provides a organized shopping environment for parents seeking high quality children's goods at significantly reduced prices. Attendees can shop during designated discount periods to find half price and seventy-five percent off deals. The sale includes various ticket options, ranging from paid early access presales to free public shopping hours. Staff and volunteers are available on site to assist with testing electronic items and ensuring all merchandise is ready for purchase. Fitting rooms and item holding areas are provided to improve the shopping experience. This event is designed for families looking to save money on essential children's supplies in the Raleigh area. Visitors should bring their own bags or wagons to transport items throughout the venue. Payments are accepted via cash, debit, or major credit cards. Visit the venue during the scheduled public hours to explore the full inventory and take advantage of final clearance discounts.

The GRL Market is a curated community shopping event hosted at Waverly Place in Cary. This afternoon gathering focuses on supporting and showcasing diverse women owned brands and small businesses from the local area. Attendees can explore a wide variety of vendor booths featuring unique goods such as handmade crafts, apparel, jewelry, and lifestyle products. The event highlights the innovation and creativity of local entrepreneurs in an open air market setting. Visitors have the opportunity to meet the makers, learn about their processes, and discover high quality items not typically found in traditional retail stores. This event is designed for local residents, families, and shoppers who value community engagement and supporting local commerce. The atmosphere is vibrant, welcoming, and perfect for a casual weekend outing with friends or family. We invite you to join us at Waverly Place to connect with local business owners and enjoy a curated shopping experience. Please mark your calendar and come prepared to explore the best of what our local women led businesses have to offer this September.

The Raleigh Tamale Festival is an annual community celebration held in downtown Raleigh that highlights the culinary traditions of tamales. This event brings together local vendors to showcase diverse flavors and cultural heritage through authentic food offerings. Attendees can explore a wide variety of tamales prepared by local chefs and community cooks. The festival features live music, traditional dance performances, and interactive cultural exhibits designed to engage visitors of all ages. Dedicated dining areas provide space to enjoy meals, while various vendors offer handmade crafts and goods reflecting regional influences. The event provides a hands-on look at the techniques involved in tamale preparation. This festival is open to the public and welcomes families, food enthusiasts, and anyone interested in local culture. The atmosphere is social, vibrant, and focused on celebrating community diversity. Whether you are a fan of traditional flavors or looking to try something new, the festival offers an accessible way to engage with Raleigh culture. Plan to join us downtown for a day of food and community connection. Admission is free, and the event runs throughout the day in the heart of the city.