TEDxRaleigh PLAY 2026

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!

Four hours for them. Four hours for YOU. Drop the kids off at Battle House Laser Tag for a night packed with laser tag, pizza, a movie, and more laser tag. Meanwhile, you can go to dinner, catch a movie, run errands, enjoy a quiet house, or simply remember what it feels like to finish a sentence without being interrupted. Details Ages: 7 to 13 Time: 5 PM to 9 PM Price: $49 per child What's Included -4 hours total -Approximately 3 hours of Battle House Laser Tag -Large slice of pizza and a drink -Movie time during dinner, then more laser tag time For Parents: Four glorious hours where parents do not have to entertain anyone Reserve tickets at: https://ecom.roller.app/battlehousefayetteville/parentsnightout/en-us/products

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.

Hopscotch Music Festival is an annual multi-day event held in Downtown Raleigh featuring a diverse lineup of musical performances. The festival returns September 10-12 and serves as a premier destination for music enthusiasts to experience live shows across multiple local venues. Attendees can expect an extensive schedule featuring established bands alongside emerging artists from various genres. The event highlights include intimate club sets, large scale outdoor performances, and unique artistic showcases scattered throughout the downtown core. This structure allows participants to explore different neighborhoods while discovering new music and catching sets from their favorite acts. The festival is designed for fans of live music who enjoy a vibrant and immersive city experience. Whether you are a local resident or a visitor, the event provides a unique way to engage with the Raleigh arts scene. You can purchase passes for the 2026 festival starting on May 1. Mark your calendars now to secure your access to this energetic weekend of discovery and entertainment. Join us this September for a memorable celebration of live music and community.

Hopscotch Music Festival is an annual multi-day event held in downtown Raleigh that showcases a diverse lineup of musical performances across various local venues. Scheduled for September 10 to 12, the festival serves as a cultural hub for music enthusiasts to experience live shows in the heart of the city. Attendees can expect an extensive schedule featuring both established bands and emerging artists across multiple stages. The event spans the downtown area, allowing guests to transition easily between venues while discovering new sounds and enjoying high-quality production. Beyond the music, the festival highlights the vibrant urban environment of Raleigh, providing a unique backdrop for curated live sets and unforgettable performances. This event is designed for music lovers who enjoy discovering new talent in an energetic, walkable city setting. The atmosphere is centered on community and exploration, making it ideal for those looking to immerse themselves in a dense weekend of live entertainment. Passes for the 2026 festival go on sale May 1. Plan your trip to Raleigh early to secure your spot for this essential musical gathering.

The Jaipur Literature Festival is a world renowned literary event returning to the Triangle area from September 11 to 13, 2026. This gathering celebrates global thinkers, poets, and writers, serving as a platform for cultural exchange and intellectual discourse through a series of engaging presentations and discussions. This year the festival takes place at Meredith College on September 11 and 12, followed by a final day at the North Carolina State University Centennial Campus on September 13. Attendees can expect a diverse lineup of notable guests including Cheetie Kumar, Jaki Shelton Green, Joseph Bathanti, Karan Mahajan, Manil Suri, Pria Anand, Vijay Seshadri, and Vishwesh Bhatt. These sessions provide unique opportunities to hear from influential authors and storytellers who have shaped the modern literary landscape. This festival is designed for readers, students, and anyone interested in contemporary global literature and arts. The atmosphere is professional, energetic, and highly inclusive, making it an ideal environment for those looking to expand their perspectives. We encourage you to join us for this landmark production alongside our partners at Artsplosure to experience an unforgettable celebration of words and ideas.

The Jaipur Literature Festival is a world renowned literary event returning to the Triangle area from September 11 to 13, 2026. This gathering celebrates global thinkers, poets, and writers, serving as a platform for cultural exchange and intellectual discourse through a series of engaging presentations and discussions. This year the festival takes place at Meredith College on September 11 and 12, followed by a final day at the North Carolina State University Centennial Campus on September 13. Attendees can expect a diverse lineup of notable guests including Cheetie Kumar, Jaki Shelton Green, Joseph Bathanti, Karan Mahajan, Manil Suri, Pria Anand, Vijay Seshadri, and Vishwesh Bhatt. These sessions provide unique opportunities to hear from influential authors and storytellers who have shaped the modern literary landscape. This festival is designed for readers, students, and anyone interested in contemporary global literature and arts. The atmosphere is professional, energetic, and highly inclusive, making it an ideal environment for those looking to expand their perspectives. We encourage you to join us for this landmark production alongside our partners at Artsplosure to experience an unforgettable celebration of words and ideas.

The Jaipur Literature Festival North Carolina is a premier literary gathering that brings the world greatest literary festival to the Triangle region. This event serves as a cultural hub for authors, thinkers, and readers to connect through the exchange of ideas and storytelling. It serves as an extension of the iconic global festival, showcasing a diverse range of voices and perspectives. Attendees can expect an immersive experience featuring a caravan of renowned poets, novelists, influencers, and historians. The program includes panel discussions, deep-dive conversations, and live performances by celebrated international and local voices. Past events have featured Pulitzer and Booker Prize winners alongside prominent cultural commentators, ensuring high-quality engagement for all participants. The festival now utilizes multiple venues, including Meredith College and the North Carolina State Centennial Campus, to provide a dynamic setting for these intellectual exchanges. This festival is ideal for literature enthusiasts, students, and curious minds who value thoughtful discourse and global culture. The atmosphere is energetic, welcoming, and deeply intellectual. Register now to participate in this unique celebration of literature, art, and human creativity.

The BEYOND Film Festival is an annual event in Cary, North Carolina, dedicated to celebrating the art of short filmmaking and screenwriting. Hosted at the historic Cary Theater, the festival provides a platform for both emerging and established filmmakers to share their work with engaged audiences. It serves as a creative hub for industry professionals and enthusiasts alike to connect and collaborate. Attendees can participate in a variety of screenings, panel discussions, and professional workshops. This eighth edition expands the experience by hosting specific workshops within the nearby Downtown Cary Park. Participants will engage with global short films and gain practical insights from industry experts through diverse programming designed to foster professional growth and creative exchange. The festival is ideal for filmmakers, screenwriters, and cinema fans looking for an intimate, high-quality event. With all sessions and social activities located within walking distance of the theater, the festival offers an accessible and immersive environment for networking and learning. Join us in downtown Cary to celebrate global storytelling and refine your craft alongside a community of dedicated film professionals. Register today to secure your place at this year’s sessions.

The 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony is a formal public gathering dedicated to honoring the sacrifices of first responders and remembering the lives lost on September 11, 2001. This event provides our community with a meaningful space to reflect on the events of that day and express gratitude to those who serve on the front lines every day. We invite all residents to join us in this collective act of commemoration and solidarity. The ceremony will feature a series of solemn tributes, including a moment of silence and a ceremonial presentation of the colors. Attendees will hear brief remarks from local community leaders and first responder representatives who share personal reflections on service and resilience. The program is designed to be concise yet impactful, ensuring that our shared commitment to never forget remains at the forefront of the experience. This event is open to all community members seeking to pay their respects in a quiet and supportive environment. Please arrive early to secure seating as we prepare to honor this significant moment together. We look forward to your presence as we unite to observe this day of national remembrance.

Experience a day of wonder at the Museum of Life and Science, a premier destination featuring eighty four acres of immersive discovery. Guests can explore an incredible variety of hands-on exhibits spanning physics, aerospace, and zoology. Families are encouraged to engage with nature in our butterfly house, visit the farmyard to meet alpacas and goats, or observe rescued black bears and red wolves in their habitats. This facility is designed to inspire curiosity in visitors of all ages through interactive learning. Durham Community Days offer a fantastic opportunity for local residents to experience these world class exhibits at no cost. During these scheduled days, Durham County residents receive free admission to the museum, making it the perfect time to enjoy our walking trails, climbing structures, and scientific displays. Please ensure that all adults bring valid proof of residency to participate in this offer. Each adult may bring up to five children to join in the exploration. Visit our website to view the upcoming calendar of community days and plan your next family adventure today.

Homeschool History Day is an educational program hosted at Mordecai Historic Park designed to teach students about nineteenth century life. The event focuses on how both free citizens and enslaved people occupied their time outside of work hours through historical interpretation and observation. Participants will engage in hands on activities that bring the past to life. These interactive sessions help students understand the distinct experiences that shaped daily routines during the 1800s. Through guided exploration, attendees will gain a clearer perspective on the social and labor dynamics of the era. This program is specifically tailored for homeschool families seeking a meaningful curriculum supplement. The atmosphere is professional and focused on active learning in an outdoor historic setting. Students will walk away with a deeper appreciation for history and a practical understanding of how different groups functioned in a past society. We invite you to bring your learners to discover these stories firsthand. Please register in advance to ensure your family has a spot for this unique educational opportunity. We look forward to welcoming you to the park.

Hopscotch Music Festival is an annual multi-day event held in Downtown Raleigh featuring a diverse lineup of musical performances. The festival returns September 10-12 and serves as a premier destination for music enthusiasts to experience live shows across multiple local venues. Attendees can expect an extensive schedule featuring established bands alongside emerging artists from various genres. The event highlights include intimate club sets, large scale outdoor performances, and unique artistic showcases scattered throughout the downtown core. This structure allows participants to explore different neighborhoods while discovering new music and catching sets from their favorite acts. The festival is designed for fans of live music who enjoy a vibrant and immersive city experience. Whether you are a local resident or a visitor, the event provides a unique way to engage with the Raleigh arts scene. You can purchase passes for the 2026 festival starting on May 1. Mark your calendars now to secure your access to this energetic weekend of discovery and entertainment. Join us this September for a memorable celebration of live music and community.

BEYOND: The Cary Film Festival is an annual gathering in Cary, North Carolina, dedicated to the art of short filmmaking and screenwriting. This event connects local and national creators with audiences to celebrate storytelling through the lens of independent cinema. Attendees can expect a diverse showcase of short film screenings and professional screenplay readings. The schedule includes educational workshops and panel discussions led by industry veterans. These sessions offer practical insights into the craft of film production and narrative development. The festival highlights excellence in storytelling by featuring winning works from across the country throughout the multi-day event. This festival is designed for filmmakers, industry professionals, and film enthusiasts who appreciate high-quality creative work. The atmosphere is collaborative and professional, providing an excellent environment for networking and artistic inspiration. Whether you are a seasoned filmmaker or a fan of short-form cinema, this festival provides a unique opportunity to engage with the creative community in the heart of the Triangle. We invite you to join us this fall to experience the latest in short film and support the next generation of screenwriters and directors.

Hopscotch Music Festival is an annual multi-day event held in downtown Raleigh that showcases a diverse lineup of musical performances across various local venues. Scheduled for September 10 to 12, the festival serves as a cultural hub for music enthusiasts to experience live shows in the heart of the city. Attendees can expect an extensive schedule featuring both established bands and emerging artists across multiple stages. The event spans the downtown area, allowing guests to transition easily between venues while discovering new sounds and enjoying high-quality production. Beyond the music, the festival highlights the vibrant urban environment of Raleigh, providing a unique backdrop for curated live sets and unforgettable performances. This event is designed for music lovers who enjoy discovering new talent in an energetic, walkable city setting. The atmosphere is centered on community and exploration, making it ideal for those looking to immerse themselves in a dense weekend of live entertainment. Passes for the 2026 festival go on sale May 1. Plan your trip to Raleigh early to secure your spot for this essential musical gathering.