Taco & Margarita Fest 2026

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.

The 50th Annual Lazy Daze Arts and Crafts Festival is a premier community gathering showcasing the work of over 250 talented artists from across the country. This milestone event celebrates fine craftsmanship and creative expression in a vibrant outdoor setting. Attendees can browse unique handmade goods while enjoying a wide variety of interactive experiences and local culture. Visitors can explore diverse exhibits featuring pottery, jewelry, paintings, and textiles. The festival provides entertainment across four dedicated stages and features more than 25 food vendors offering a range of culinary options. Guests may also relax in the beer garden or the designated lounge area. Families will find extensive programming at Kid Daze, which includes fun activities and the new Kid Collectors Market where children can purchase art created by festival participants. Professional artisans will host live demonstrations throughout the weekend. This festival is designed for art lovers, families, and anyone looking to enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of summer. It offers a unique opportunity to engage directly with makers and support the arts community. Join us to experience this landmark anniversary celebration and participate in a long standing local tradition.

Experience the vibrant spirit of Carrboro at the Sunday Brunch Music series hosted on the beautiful lawn of Weaver Street Market. This beloved community gathering invites neighbors and visitors alike to enjoy high quality live musical performances in a relaxed outdoor setting. It is the perfect way to spend your Sunday morning while soaking in the sunshine and enjoying the welcoming atmosphere of this unique community owned grocery space. The music series features talented local artists, creating a delightful soundtrack for your weekend brunch. Whether you are catching up with friends, enjoying a meal, or simply looking to unwind, this event offers an ideal environment for all ages. The performances take place from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., providing a wonderful opportunity to support local talent and engage with the local community. We encourage you to bring your family and friends to experience this free weekly event throughout the summer and fall seasons. Come discover why Weaver Street Market is a cornerstone of the Carrboro area. Visit us this Sunday to enjoy great music, delicious food, and a fantastic community vibe.

Metal Yoga is an energetic yoga class set to the iconic Queen of the Damned soundtrack. This unique session blends traditional movement with a powerful musical experience to create an engaging practice for all fitness levels. Participants can expect a structured yoga flow choreographed to high-energy metal tracks. The session focuses on building strength and flexibility while maintaining a steady rhythm. The environment is designed to be welcoming and inclusive, providing modifications for beginners and challenges for advanced practitioners. Complimentary coffee is provided to all guests as part of the admission fee. This event is ideal for anyone looking to bring more creativity and intensity to their routine. Whether you are a dedicated yogi or a metal music enthusiast, this class offers a refreshing alternative to standard studio sessions. The atmosphere is gothic, fun, and inclusive, creating a space where everyone feels encouraged to explore their practice. Please wear comfortable athletic clothing and bring a personal water bottle. We invite you to join us for this distinct session and experience a new way to move and connect.

The Back to School Brunch in Raleigh is a community event designed to celebrate the start of the academic year through food, creativity, and local outreach. Families are invited to enjoy brunch favorites and family friendly entertainment throughout the day. Attendees can participate in a variety of activities including a craft station where children can create customizable pencil cases. The event also features three dollar kids party drinks and a balloon photo station for capturing memories. Guests are encouraged to support local education by donating to the school supply and backpack drive, which benefits the WakeEd Partnership. Additionally, every Hammock location will select one local teacher to receive a three hundred dollar donation toward their Amazon classroom wish list. This event is perfect for families looking to enjoy a meal while engaging with their local school community. The atmosphere is casual, welcoming, and focused on preparing for the upcoming semester. We invite you to join us for a productive morning that supports both local students and educators. Visit your local Hammock restaurant to participate in this seasonal celebration.

Experience the vibrant spirit of Carrboro at the Sunday Brunch Music series hosted on the beautiful lawn of Weaver Street Market. This beloved community gathering invites neighbors and visitors alike to enjoy high quality live musical performances in a relaxed outdoor setting. It is the perfect way to spend your Sunday morning while soaking in the sunshine and enjoying the welcoming atmosphere of this unique community owned grocery space. The music series features talented local artists, creating a delightful soundtrack for your weekend brunch. Whether you are catching up with friends, enjoying a meal, or simply looking to unwind, this event offers an ideal environment for all ages. The performances take place from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., providing a wonderful opportunity to support local talent and engage with the local community. We encourage you to bring your family and friends to experience this free weekly event throughout the summer and fall seasons. Come discover why Weaver Street Market is a cornerstone of the Carrboro area. Visit us this Sunday to enjoy great music, delicious food, and a fantastic community vibe.

The Museum Member Meetup and Tour offers an exclusive opportunity for museum members to connect with our dedicated membership team and fellow enthusiasts. This event serves as a specialized gathering designed to foster community engagement and celebrate our shared appreciation for the arts within our institution. Participants will experience a curated tour of the People’s Collection, providing deeper insight into the significant works held by the museum. Following the guided program, attendees are invited to continue the conversation while enjoying lunch at the NCMA Cafe. As a valued member, you may apply your membership discount toward your meal, making this the perfect conclusion to a morning of discovery. This event is ideal for current museum members looking to network with other supporters and gain a more intimate understanding of our exhibits. The atmosphere is social, welcoming, and relaxed. Please join us for this unique chance to explore our galleries and build connections within our vibrant membership community. We look forward to seeing you there and sharing an engaging experience together.

The 50th Annual Lazy Daze Arts and Crafts Festival is a premier community gathering showcasing the work of over 250 talented artists from across the country. This milestone event celebrates fine craftsmanship and creative expression in a vibrant outdoor setting. Attendees can browse unique handmade goods while enjoying a wide variety of interactive experiences and local culture. Visitors can explore diverse exhibits featuring pottery, jewelry, paintings, and textiles. The festival provides entertainment across four dedicated stages and features more than 25 food vendors offering a range of culinary options. Guests may also relax in the beer garden or the designated lounge area. Families will find extensive programming at Kid Daze, which includes fun activities and the new Kid Collectors Market where children can purchase art created by festival participants. Professional artisans will host live demonstrations throughout the weekend. This festival is designed for art lovers, families, and anyone looking to enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of summer. It offers a unique opportunity to engage directly with makers and support the arts community. Join us to experience this landmark anniversary celebration and participate in a long standing local tradition.

The Cary Street Food Festival is a two-day culinary celebration taking place at Fenton on August 22 and 23, 2026. This event utilizes both the outdoor parking lot and interior spaces at Sport and Social, PBR Cowboy Bar, and AVA Rooftop Bar to showcase the best food trucks and local restaurants in the region. Every food item is priced at five dollars or less to encourage attendees to sample a diverse range of local flavors from more than 20 participating vendors. Attendees can participate in a variety of activities beyond dining, including live entertainment, cooking demonstrations, and vendor market shopping. Additional attractions include axe throwing, mechanical bull riding, eating challenges, and family-friendly games. VIP ticket holders also gain exclusive access to a giant chocolate fountain. The festival utilizes an indoor and outdoor pavilion to ensure the event proceeds comfortably throughout the weekend. This festival is designed for food enthusiasts, families, and anyone looking to enjoy a vibrant community atmosphere in Cary. We invite you to join us for this unique dining experience. Please plan your visit to Fenton early to explore all the flavors and entertainment options available throughout the festival grounds.

Experience the vibrant spirit of the community at the 50th Annual Lazy Daze Arts and Crafts Festival in Downtown Cary. This landmark event returns to the Cary Town Hall Campus on August 22 and 23, 2026, offering two full days of artistic exploration and celebration. Visitors can enjoy a diverse selection of handcrafted goods from talented artisans, live musical performances, and engaging activities suitable for all ages. As a long-standing tradition in the region, this festival showcases the creative heartbeat of the town while providing a welcoming atmosphere for residents and guests alike to connect and enjoy the summer season. Best of all, admission to this grand celebration is completely free. We invite you to bring your friends and family to experience the unique sights, sounds, and craftsmanship that make this milestone year unforgettable. Mark your calendars now for this premier outdoor experience and join thousands of others in celebrating half a century of culture and creativity. Visit the Town of Cary website to plan your trip and ensure you do not miss this signature local event.

Night of Poe is an immersive theatrical event that brings the classic tales of Edgar Allan Poe to life through performance and sound. Guests spend 90 minutes exploring a curated narrative world that blends storytelling with music to capture the mystery of Poe’s most famous works. Attendees will experience dramatic re-tellings of Poe stories performed by professional actors and musicians. The program features a gothic soundscape composed by Danny Elfman to enhance the atmosphere. Each ticket includes a tasting menu of four themed cocktails designed to complement the evening’s dark aesthetic. These elements combine to create a multi-sensory experience that prioritizes narrative depth and high-quality production. This event is designed for literature enthusiasts, fans of gothic theater, and anyone looking for a sophisticated evening of immersive entertainment. The environment is refined and meticulously crafted to ensure a memorable visit. We invite you to join us for this unique exploration of literary history. Please book your tickets in advance to secure your place in this limited engagement as spaces for this hauntingly elegant journey fill up quickly.

Get ready for some high energy competition at Super Rad Retro Lounge Arcade Bar located in the heart of Raleigh. Every Sunday at 1 p.m., the venue hosts a thrilling air hockey tournament that is completely free to enter. Whether you are a casual player looking for fun or a competitive enthusiast aiming for the top spot, all skill levels are welcome to participate. This inclusive event is open to all ages, making it a perfect weekend outing for friends and families alike. Beyond the tournament, you can explore an extensive collection of forty classic arcade games, pinball machines, and modern console games that capture the nostalgia of the 80s, 90s, and 2000s. Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Glenwood Avenue while challenging your neighbors to a friendly match. With no entry cost, it is the ideal way to spend your Sunday afternoon in a lively setting. Make sure to visit the Super Rad Retro Lounge soon to secure your spot in the bracket. We encourage you to join our community and enjoy the excitement of retro gaming, so mark your calendars and head over to the lounge for an unforgettable experience today.

The Vintage Market at Wolfe and Porter is a curated monthly event held in Raleigh that brings together local vendors for an afternoon of sustainable shopping. This event takes place on August 23 from 2 pm to 7 pm at 905 West Morgan Street. It serves as a community gathering space for those who appreciate unique finds and local small businesses. Attendees can browse a wide selection of vintage clothing, eclectic housewares, and specialty gifts. Regular market partners include Scarlet Oaks, Fetching Vintage, Saige Kennedy Finds, Smut Stacks, and Viola Lee Vintage. Guests are welcome to enjoy signature cocktails from the Wolfe and Porter bar while exploring the various vendor stalls. The selection changes regularly, offering fresh treasures for every visitor to discover throughout the afternoon. This market is designed for fashion enthusiasts, home decorators, and anyone looking for a relaxed social outing. The atmosphere is casual, welcoming, and perfect for a Sunday stroll. Whether you are searching for a specific item or simply want to support local retailers, this event provides an ideal environment. For more information, please visit the official website at wolfeandporter.com/events.