Pop Up ARTernative Market

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.

This workshop provides a foundational introduction to the traditional craft of tatting. Participants will learn the essential techniques required to create intricate lace designs under the guidance of local instructor Arlene Medder. The class session covers basic knots, tool handling, and pattern reading. All necessary materials, including shuttles and thread, are provided for every attendee. The program also includes a catered lunch to ensure a comfortable learning environment throughout the session. By the end of the day, students will have the practical skills needed to start their own independent lace projects. This event is designed for complete beginners and requires no prior experience with textiles or needlework. The atmosphere is structured yet relaxed, making it an ideal setting for those looking to learn a new hobby in a supportive group environment. Space is limited to maintain an optimal student to instructor ratio. Please register in advance to secure your spot for this hands on creative experience. We look forward to seeing you there and exploring the delicate art of tatting together in this comprehensive introductory session.

Experience the vibrant spirit of the community at Durham CenterFest, North Carolina’s longest running street art festival. Returning for an exciting weekend on September 19 and 20, 2026, this iconic event transforms the downtown Durham loop into a bustling hub of creativity and connection. Spanning the Five Points and CCB Plaza areas, the festival invites attendees of all ages to explore a meticulously curated juried visual art market featuring talented creators from across the region. Beyond the stunning visual displays, visitors can immerse themselves in high energy live music performances, participate in engaging hands on art activities designed for kids, and savor a diverse selection of offerings from local food vendors. While admission is entirely free to the public, we encourage a suggested five dollar donation at the gate to help sustain this beloved tradition and support the continued growth of the arts in our city. Gather your friends and family for an unforgettable cultural celebration in the heart of downtown. Mark your calendars now and plan to join us for this incredible weekend of community spirit and artistic inspiration.

Join Raleigh author and award-nominated cartoonist Paul Friedrich for an engaging reading and illustration session featuring his picture book Zebra and Yak: The Backwards Counting Book. This event offers a unique opportunity to interact with a professional artist while exploring a creative approach to counting and storytelling. During the presentation, Friedrich will read from his book, which follows a humorous narrative where counting and chaos move in reverse. After the reading, participants are invited to join a hands-on drawing activity guided by the author. This segment allows attendees to practice their own illustrating techniques while learning about the creative process behind graphic design and mural work. Signed copies of the book will be available for purchase at the event. This experience is designed for children of all ages and families who enjoy interactive storytelling and creative arts. The atmosphere is intended to be educational, lively, and welcoming for young readers and aspiring artists alike. We invite you to attend this session to connect with a talented local creator and enjoy a morning of imagination. Come ready to draw, learn, and discover how a story comes to life through art.

Canine-Con 2026 is an outdoor community festival dedicated to dogs and their owners. Hosted in the park, this event serves as a central hub for pet health services, local networking, and recreational engagement for the entire canine community. It provides a structured environment where responsible pet care meets seasonal outdoor fun. Attendees can access a wide variety of essential services including on-site grooming stations, professional microchipping, and preventative vaccine clinics. The grounds will feature booths from numerous pet non-profits and specialized vendors offering quality supplies. Visitors can enjoy a selection of curated human and pet-friendly snacks available throughout the day. These activities are designed to streamline pet care logistics while fostering connections within the local animal welfare network. This event is perfect for dog owners, families, and animal advocates looking to support local organizations while ensuring their pets remain healthy and happy. The atmosphere is professional yet welcoming, focusing on community safety and education. We invite you to join us for a productive day of wellness and engagement. Please prepare to keep your dogs leashed and come ready to enjoy a day dedicated to our four-legged companions.

The Fall Wake Forest HerbFest is an outdoor seasonal community event held in downtown Wake Forest. It celebrates gardening and local culture by bringing together experts and enthusiasts for a weekend of education and entertainment. Attendees can explore a wide variety of local vendors offering seasonal plants and garden goods. The event schedule features live music performances that provide a backdrop for the day. Participants may also engage in garden demonstrations and mini classes designed to teach practical horticultural skills. These sessions are structured to provide actionable advice for both novice and experienced gardeners looking to improve their outdoor spaces. This festival is intended for anyone with an interest in gardening, local crafts, or community engagement. The atmosphere is designed to be welcoming and informative, making it an ideal destination for individuals and families seeking to enjoy the autumn season. We encourage everyone to visit the downtown area to discover new plants, learn from knowledgeable instructors, and support local vendors. Join us this weekend to gain gardening inspiration and participate in this seasonal tradition.

Experience the excitement of The Raleigh Market, a premier weekend destination located at the North Carolina State Fairgrounds. Every Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., this expansive marketplace transforms into a treasure hunter paradise featuring hundreds of unique indoor and outdoor vendors. Whether you are searching for high-end antiques, reliable power tools, exquisite jewelry, or local art, you will discover an incredible variety of goods that have delighted visitors for over five decades. Beyond the shopping, The Raleigh Market is a culinary destination in its own right. Plan to arrive with an appetite to enjoy a rotating selection of gourmet food trucks, classic fair favorites, and fresh produce from local farm stands. This vibrant community event offers a welcoming atmosphere for families and collectors alike, and best of all, admission and parking are completely free for all guests. Make sure to visit us this weekend to explore the latest finds from our diverse vendor lineup. For the most current updates on special offerings and seasonal schedules, follow The Raleigh Market on Facebook. We look forward to seeing you there for a fun day of discovery.

Wendell's Epic Mighty Con is a community fandom celebration hosted in Eastern Wake. The event gathers fans of comics, pop culture, and gaming for a two-day experience focused on creativity and local connection. Attendees can participate in a variety of activities including browsing collectibles from specialized vendors and meeting professional creators. Highlights include a dedicated cosplay showcase and interactive gaming sessions. Food trucks will be available on-site throughout the event to accommodate guests. The celebration begins with the Masquerade on Main Street kick-off party on Friday, September 18, 2026, starting at 6pm. The main convention follows on Saturday, September 19, from 10am to 5pm at the Wendell Community Center. This event is designed for individuals and families who enjoy comics and geek culture. The atmosphere is welcoming and geared toward fans of all ages looking to engage with their community in a creative environment. Whether you are a casual fan or a dedicated collector, this gathering provides a unique space to celebrate shared interests. Plan to join us in Wendell for a memorable weekend of fandom and fun.

Wendell's Epic Mighty Con is a community focused fandom celebration held at the Wendell Community Center. The event brings together comic book fans, collectors, and families for a day dedicated to pop culture and creative expression in eastern Wake County. Attendees can explore a variety of offerings including comic books, diverse collectibles, and vendor booths. The program features local creators showcasing their work and interactive gaming stations. Food trucks will be on site throughout the Saturday event to provide dining options for guests. The experience begins with the Masquerade on Main Street kick off party on Friday, September 18, 2026, starting at 6pm. The main convention follows on Saturday, September 19, from 10am to 5pm. This event is designed for all ages and encourages participation from casual fans and dedicated enthusiasts alike. The atmosphere is intended to be welcoming and inclusive, providing a space for the community to engage with various fandoms. Join us for a full day of excitement and creativity. Mark your calendars and prepare to celebrate with fellow enthusiasts in the heart of Wendell.

Experience the excitement of The Raleigh Market, a premier weekend destination located at the North Carolina State Fairgrounds. Every Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., this expansive marketplace transforms into a treasure hunter paradise featuring hundreds of unique indoor and outdoor vendors. Whether you are searching for high-end antiques, reliable power tools, exquisite jewelry, or local art, you will discover an incredible variety of goods that have delighted visitors for over five decades. Beyond the shopping, The Raleigh Market is a culinary destination in its own right. Plan to arrive with an appetite to enjoy a rotating selection of gourmet food trucks, classic fair favorites, and fresh produce from local farm stands. This vibrant community event offers a welcoming atmosphere for families and collectors alike, and best of all, admission and parking are completely free for all guests. Make sure to visit us this weekend to explore the latest finds from our diverse vendor lineup. For the most current updates on special offerings and seasonal schedules, follow The Raleigh Market on Facebook. We look forward to seeing you there for a fun day of discovery.