Stroll Through History: Free Cemetery Tours at Historic Oakwood Cemetery

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.

Raleigh Parks and Oaks and Spokes invite you to participate in our highly anticipated Learn to Ride program. Designed specifically for riders ages five and up, this initiative helps participants master balance and control on a bicycle without the use of training wheels. By utilizing the proven balance bike method, our dedicated volunteers provide a supportive environment where riders can gain confidence while safely navigating on two wheels. Whether you are a complete beginner or looking to transition away from training wheels, our team is here to guide you every step of the way. All necessary equipment, including a balance bike and a helmet, will be provided for your convenience. If you prefer to bring your own bicycle, our skilled mechanics are available to remove pedals and training wheels to prepare your bike for the training session. These events are incredibly popular and frequently sell out, so we encourage you to mark your calendars when registration opens. Visit our official website to secure your spot today and start your journey toward cycling independence with Raleigh Parks.

Experience the vibrant community atmosphere at the Carrboro Farmers Market, where local agriculture meets family fun. Our Market Bunch program offers engaging activities every Wednesday from April through November, focusing on sustainability, healthy eating, and creative arts. These interactive sessions are designed to inspire young minds while connecting them with the farmers and artisans who grow our food. Beyond our weekly sessions, the market hosts a variety of seasonal celebrations including Kids Seedling Day, the Strawberry Jamboree, and our popular Tomato Day. These events provide a unique opportunity for families to learn about seasonal produce while enjoying live music, vendor specials, and educational displays. Whether you are looking to shop for fresh local meat and vegetables or seeking a fun outing for your children, there is something for everyone to enjoy at the Carrboro Town Commons. We invite you to bring your family and participate in these free, enriching experiences. Check our official calendar for specific event dates and follow our newsletter for the latest updates. Join us this week to support your local food system and create lasting memories with your neighbors.

History at High Noon is a virtual lunchtime lecture series hosted by the North Carolina Museum of History. This session explores the history of Operation Bumblebee, a top secret project conducted by the US Navy during the late 1940s on a North Carolina barrier island. Attendees will learn about the seven remaining concrete towers that served as testing grounds for experimental propulsion systems. The presentation covers how these covert naval developments revolutionized ship defense mechanisms. Participants will also discover how this research provided the essential foundation for later supersonic flight and advancements in outer space exploration. The lecture provides a detailed look at a significant but often overlooked chapter of military and technological history. This event is designed for history enthusiasts, technology buffs, and anyone interested in local North Carolina research. The atmosphere is educational, accessible, and perfect for a mid day break. Join us to uncover the story behind these mysterious towers and gain insight into the innovations that shaped modern aviation. Register online today to secure your spot for this informative virtual session.

History at High Noon is a virtual lunchtime lecture series hosted by the North Carolina Museum of History. This session explores the history of Operation Bumblebee, a top secret project conducted by the US Navy during the late 1940s on a North Carolina barrier island. Attendees will learn about the seven remaining concrete towers that served as testing grounds for experimental propulsion systems. The presentation covers how these covert naval developments revolutionized ship defense mechanisms. Participants will also discover how this research provided the essential foundation for later supersonic flight and advancements in outer space exploration. The lecture provides a detailed look at a significant but often overlooked chapter of military and technological history. This event is designed for history enthusiasts, technology buffs, and anyone interested in local North Carolina research. The atmosphere is educational, accessible, and perfect for a mid day break. Join us to uncover the story behind these mysterious towers and gain insight into the innovations that shaped modern aviation. Register online today to secure your spot for this informative virtual session.

Discover the hidden narratives of Raleigh at the Historic Oakwood Cemetery. Spanning seventy-two acres and over 140 years of local history, this serene, park-like landscape serves as the final resting place for numerous state and national leaders. We invite you to join our Stroll Through History tours, which take place on the second and fourth Thursday of every month through 2026. These informal, guided walks offer a unique opportunity to explore different sections of the grounds while uncovering stories that remain untold on more formal outings. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a dedicated local history enthusiast, your guide will share the latest research and captivating tales about the famous and infamous individuals resting here. These sessions are designed to be flexible, adapting to the interests and mobility of the group to ensure an engaging experience for everyone. Please visit our official website to view the full calendar of dates and secure your spot for these complimentary sessions. We look forward to walking through the past with you and sharing the enduring legacy of this historic North Carolina landmark.

Join our knowledgeable naturalist staff for an invigorating guided hike through the scenic grounds of Historic Yates Mill County Park. This immersive outdoor experience offers a unique opportunity to explore the diverse wildlife refuge and environmental research center while learning about the native plants and animals that call this beautiful landscape home. Participants will traverse approximately one mile of natural surface trails, making this an ideal activity for nature enthusiasts eager to deepen their connection with the local ecosystem. This guided excursion is perfect for families and individuals alike, recommended for ages eight and up. We prioritize safety and comfort, so please ensure all attendees wear appropriate closed-toe footwear and bring a full water bottle for the journey. This program is completely free to attend, but registration is required for all participants to ensure a small group size. Come prepared to discover the natural beauty of one of Raleigh's most cherished historical landmarks. Visit our website today to secure your spot and join us for an unforgettable morning of exploration and discovery in the great outdoors.

Discover the hidden narratives of Raleigh at the Historic Oakwood Cemetery. Spanning seventy-two acres and over 140 years of local history, this serene, park-like landscape serves as the final resting place for numerous state and national leaders. We invite you to join our Stroll Through History tours, which take place on the second and fourth Thursday of every month through 2026. These informal, guided walks offer a unique opportunity to explore different sections of the grounds while uncovering stories that remain untold on more formal outings. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a dedicated local history enthusiast, your guide will share the latest research and captivating tales about the famous and infamous individuals resting here. These sessions are designed to be flexible, adapting to the interests and mobility of the group to ensure an engaging experience for everyone. Please visit our official website to view the full calendar of dates and secure your spot for these complimentary sessions. We look forward to walking through the past with you and sharing the enduring legacy of this historic North Carolina landmark.

Step back in time at Historic Yates Mill County Park, home to the last operable water-powered gristmill in Wake County. This remarkable site, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, offers visitors a rare opportunity to witness over 200 years of agricultural history in action. Join our expert historic interpreters for an engaging tour where you will discover how local grain was processed into flour through the power of water and ingenuity. Participants will begin at the visitor center for a guided walk, followed by an exploration of the mill's intricate inner workings. Beyond the mill, the 174-acre park serves as a beautiful wildlife refuge and environmental research center. Whether you are exploring our scenic walking trails, observing local nature, or attending one of our many educational programs, there is something for everyone to enjoy. These tours are free, though space is limited, so we encourage early arrival to secure your spot. Visit our official website today to view our full schedule of upcoming events and plan your next family adventure at this unique Raleigh destination.

Experience a journey back in time at Historic Yates Mill County Park in Raleigh. As the last operable water-powered gristmill in Wake County, this site offers a unique glimpse into the agricultural history of our region. Visitors are invited to join an expert historic interpreter for an engaging guided walk to the mill, where you will explore the intricate inner workings of this historic landmark that has served the community for over two hundred years. This educational experience is perfect for families and history enthusiasts alike. Whether you are interested in the engineering of the water-powered wheel or the role gristmills played in shaping rural life, these tours provide deep insight into our local heritage. The program is free to the public, though space is limited, so we encourage early arrival to secure your spot. We invite you to visit our website to pre-register and learn more about our upcoming programs. Come explore this beautiful wildlife refuge and discover why Historic Yates Mill remains a vital piece of our collective history.