Side Stories

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.

Death By Disco is an interactive murder mystery dinner theater event hosted at the Halle Cultural Arts Center. Attendees will step back into the high stakes world of a 1977 disco dance contest sponsored by ShowTown Records for an evening of entertainment and fine dining. Participants will watch an original performance as they interact with characters like disco diva Dana Winter, DJ Damian Moonrock, and label executive Sylvester Wolfe. Guests are tasked with questioning these suspects to solve a sudden mystery that unfolds during the show. Your ticket includes a full gourmet meal featuring pizza, curated salads, and dessert, ensuring a satisfying experience for both your appetite and your inner detective. This event is perfect for anyone who enjoys immersive theater, true crime narratives, and the vibrant music of the seventies. While period attire is encouraged to enhance the fun, it is not required for participation. Reserve your spot now to join this evening of suspense, music, and food. Come prepared to enjoy a unique night of entertainment where you play a central role in uncovering the truth behind the crime.

The Winner Takes It All is an ABBA-inspired gala dedicated to supporting Theatre Raleigh. This event raises funds for high-quality theatre productions and professional development programs for aspiring artists. Attendees will enjoy a sophisticated evening featuring live music, a cocktail reception, and a formal multi-course dinner. The program includes live and silent auctions along with performances from Theatre Raleigh professionals and students. Guests can expect a vibrant celebration centered on the iconic music of ABBA while contributing to a vital local arts institution. This gala is designed for theatre enthusiasts, community supporters, and music lovers who appreciate live performance. The atmosphere is energetic and celebratory, offering a unique opportunity to connect with fellow arts patrons. We invite you to join us for an evening of entertainment and philanthropy. Tickets are available for purchase now, and we encourage early registration to secure your spot at this signature event. Your participation directly enables our mission to cultivate future talent and deliver exceptional theatrical experiences to our community.

The Rocky Horror Picture Show is a cult classic film screening hosted at The Rialto in Raleigh. This event combines the iconic movie with a high energy live performance by the Low Down Cheap Little Punks to provide a unique interactive experience for the local community. Attendees can expect a full cinematic presentation enhanced by a live shadow cast that mirrors the action on screen. The performers lead the audience through classic musical numbers and well known rituals associated with the film. This production brings the screen to life through professional choreography and theatrical presentation. This event is perfect for fans of cult cinema, musical theater, and anyone looking for a memorable night out in Raleigh. The atmosphere is vibrant, inclusive, and encourages enthusiastic participation throughout the show. It offers a rare chance to experience a piece of pop culture history in a historic local venue. Tickets for this popular screening often sell out quickly. We encourage you to book your seats in advance to ensure your spot at this exciting production. Join us for a night of music and classic entertainment.