Terrific Tuesdays at The Lumina Theater

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.

Experience the ultimate weekend treasure hunt at The Raleigh Market, held every Saturday and Sunday at the North Carolina State Fairgrounds in Raleigh. With nearly fifty years of history, this expansive marketplace draws visitors from across the region to explore hundreds of indoor and outdoor vendors. Whether you are searching for high-end antiques, unique jewelry, power tools, or artisanal goods, there is truly something for everyone to discover at this beloved local staple. Beyond the diverse shopping opportunities, guests are encouraged to arrive with an appetite. The market hosts a rotating selection of local food trucks, classic fair food, and fresh farm stands, ensuring a delicious experience for all attendees. Admission and parking are both completely free, making this the perfect destination for a budget-friendly family outing or a relaxing weekend stroll. Visit us this weekend to see what treasures await you among our many dedicated merchants. For the most up-to-date information on upcoming vendors and special event notifications, please be sure to follow The Raleigh Market on Facebook today.

Calling all collectors, hobbyists, and fans of unique treasures. Charlie is Collectible Show is excited to invite you to the CCS Nerd Yard Sale, happening on August 30, 2026, at Triangle Town Center in Raleigh. This event transforms the former Macy’s space into a massive hub for enthusiasts looking to clear out their personal stashes and discover rare gems. Whether you are searching for vintage collectibles, comics, or unique hobby items, you are sure to find pieces that deserve a second life in your own collection. This community-focused gathering offers free admission and free parking for all attendees, making it an accessible outing for families and dedicated hunters alike. It is the perfect opportunity to browse a wide variety of items while meeting fellow enthusiasts from across the region. If you are interested in becoming a seller yourself, there are still opportunities to apply for a table and showcase your goods. Mark your calendars for this exciting event and join us for a day of discovery and community connection in the heart of the Triangle.

Get ready to celebrate a time-honored tradition at the 51st Annual Old-Fashioned Farmers Days festival, taking place on September 5 and 6, 2026, at the beautiful Silk Hope Farm Heritage Park in Siler City, North Carolina. This exciting two-day event honors the rich agricultural heritage of our region, offering a perfect way for friends and families to spend their Labor Day weekend together. Attendees can enjoy a variety of historical demonstrations, vibrant exhibits, and engaging activities that bring the past to life. Experience the heart of community spirit as you explore the park, take in local culture, and enjoy the sights and sounds of this long-standing annual gathering. Tickets are priced at just 5 dollars, and children under the age of six are invited to attend for free, with complimentary parking included for all guests. Additional ticket purchases are available for those who wish to experience the thrilling tractor pull events. This is a must-attend event for anyone looking to embrace local heritage and community connection. Plan your visit today and join us for an unforgettable weekend of rural celebration and family-friendly fun.

Horsegirls is a poignant feature film screening that explores themes of independence and self-discovery through the unique lens of hobby-horsing. The story follows 22-year-old Margarita, an autistic woman navigating her mother’s illness while pursuing a deeply personal passion. This event offers a compelling look at how personal hobbies can empower individuals and bridge emotional gaps during difficult life transitions. Attendees can expect an intimate and thoughtful cinematic experience that balances emotional depth with the whimsical nature of hobby-horsing. The film highlights the determination of the protagonist as she balances family expectations with her own autonomy. Viewers will gain insights into the sensory world of the main character and the unconventional sport that becomes her outlet for creative expression and personal agency. This screening is intended for film enthusiasts, advocates for neurodiversity, and anyone interested in stories about family dynamics and resilience. The atmosphere is designed to be welcoming, reflective, and thought-provoking for all audience members. Join us for this powerful narrative that celebrates the strength found in unexpected places. Please secure your tickets in advance to ensure your seat for this unique cinematic event.

This event is a documentary screening and exploration of the life and legacy of Pulitzer Prize winning poet Mary Oliver. It examines her journey from a secluded childhood to becoming an iconic literary voice who found spiritual depth within the natural world of Cape Cod. Attendees will view rare personal archival materials including private notebooks and never before seen correspondence. The production features intimate interviews with close friends like John Waters. Audiences can expect compelling recitations of Oliver’s most celebrated poems performed by voices such as Stephen Colbert, Lucy Dacus, Steve Buscemi, and Oprah Winfrey. These segments highlight her unique capacity to address modern anxieties regarding digital distraction and climate change through the lens of nature. This screening is intended for literature enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone seeking clarity in an increasingly fragmented world. It offers a calm, reflective atmosphere perfect for those looking to reconnect with the art of paying attention. Join us for this cinematic tribute to understand why Mary Oliver remains one of America’s most profound and necessary contemporary mystics. Secure your tickets now to experience this unique celebration of her life and enduring work.

Experience the magic of cinema under the stars as the North Carolina Museum of Art brings its acclaimed outdoor movie series to the heart of downtown Raleigh. This spring and summer of 2026, Moore Square transforms into an open-air theater where film lovers can gather for a special screening of the classic monster battle Godzilla vs. Mothra. This community-focused event is completely free and designed to offer a unique entertainment experience for residents and visitors alike. Festivities begin at 6 p.m. with an exciting selection of food trucks and engaging themed activities that celebrate the spirit of the film. Once the sun dips below the skyline, the featured presentation kicks off at 7:15 p.m. Gather your friends and family for an evening of relaxation and community connection in one of the city most vibrant public spaces. Whether you are a dedicated kaiju fan or simply looking for an enjoyable night out, this event provides the perfect atmosphere to celebrate culture and cinema together. We encourage you to join us in Moore Square for this memorable seasonal series.

Wake up early and head over to the newest Dunkin location in Raleigh at 3907 Capital Boulevard for an exciting two day grand opening celebration. On August 25 and August 26, the first 150 guests in line will have the incredible opportunity to win free coffee or donuts for an entire year. This event is a fantastic way to celebrate the arrival of a new community hub while enjoying exclusive promotional deals throughout the day. Beyond the headline giveaway, the festivities continue from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Tuesday where visitors can purchase donuts for only 94 cents. Guests will also enjoy fun merchandise giveaways and appearances by the brand mascot, Cuppy. At 11 a.m., please join us for the official ribbon cutting ceremony featuring local franchisee George Ross. The day is also dedicated to giving back, as we will present a 2,500 dollar donation to the Special Olympics of North Carolina. We invite all local coffee lovers and community members to join us for these celebratory events and support a great cause.

RipTide Car Wash is thrilled to bring back a highly anticipated community tradition for the second consecutive year. Throughout the entire month of August 2026, all teachers and school staff members are invited to enjoy a complimentary car wash at any RipTide location. This initiative serves as a sincere thank you to the dedicated educators who work tirelessly to shape our future generations. We recognize the immense effort required in the classroom and want to ensure your vehicle is as polished and ready for the school year as you are. To participate in this special promotion, simply present your valid school identification at any of our convenient locations, including our sites on Durham-Chapel Hill Boulevard, North Roxboro Street, Falls of Neuse Road, or Sandy Forks Road. Whether you are prepping for a new semester or just need a refreshing clean, we are proud to support those who serve our local schools. Visit our website today to find the specific address nearest to you and take advantage of this refreshing offer before the month concludes. We look forward to seeing you soon.

Treat yourself to a delicious cooling experience this summer with an exclusive offer from Rita's Italian Ice and Frozen Custard. Throughout the remainder of August, the company is hosting a fantastic promotion designed to satisfy your cravings. When you purchase a small frozen custard cone, you will receive a small Italian ice completely free of charge. This refreshing deal is the perfect way to enjoy their signature creamy custard alongside their iconic fruit-flavored ice treats. To participate in this special promotion, ensure you have the official Ritas Ice mobile application downloaded on your smartphone. The offer is available exclusively to app users at participating locations nationwide through August 31, 2026. Please note that this reward is limited to one free small Italian ice per app account and is subject to availability while supplies last. Do not miss this opportunity to cool down during the final weeks of the season. Download the app today, visit your nearest shop, and claim your sweet reward before this limited-time promotion comes to an end.