The Raleigh Market

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 vibrant heart of the local creative scene at the Durham Craft Market, held every Saturday morning at Durham Central Park. This juried, artist-run collective showcases the exceptional talents of over fifty artisans who live and work within thirty miles of the city. Whether you are searching for unique handmade gifts, home decor, or one-of-a-kind treasures, you will find an incredible variety of high-quality items crafted with care and passion. The market offers a welcoming space for neighbors and visitors to connect directly with the talented individuals who help define the artistic culture of the region. Attending the market is completely free, making it the perfect weekend destination for those who value shopping local and supporting small businesses. During the warmer months, the market runs from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m., while the winter season features adjusted hours from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. We invite you to visit 501 Foster Street this Saturday to discover the best handmade goods the Triangle has to offer. Bring your friends and family to enjoy a morning of community, creativity, and discovery in the heart of Durham.

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.

Experience the magic of cinema without breaking your budget at The Lumina Theater in Southern Village. Located conveniently at 620 Market Street in Chapel Hill, this premier local destination is proud to offer their signature Terrific Tuesdays promotion. Every Tuesday throughout the entire year, movie lovers can secure tickets for the incredibly low base price of 6.25 dollars. After including all necessary taxes and fees, your total comes to just 7.75 dollars per person, making it an ideal choice for a budget-friendly date night or a casual mid-week outing with friends and family. Beyond the savings on admission, guests can also enjoy exclusive concession specials offered only on Tuesdays. This creates a perfect opportunity to indulge in your favorite theater snacks while enjoying the latest film releases in a comfortable, inviting atmosphere. Whether you are looking for a routine movie experience or a cost-effective way to entertain the whole group, The Lumina Theater delivers both quality and value. We encourage you to plan your next visit soon to take advantage of these significant weekly savings and elevate your Tuesday evening plans.

Join us for an exciting series of Pop-Up Play Dates held at the scenic Market Square at Sweetwater Town Center in Apex, North Carolina. These vibrant morning gatherings are designed specifically for children and families to enjoy the beautiful summer weather together. Every Tuesday throughout August 2026, we transform the lawn into a hub of activity featuring a variety of engaging outdoor games and fun movement exercises that encourage active play and socialization in a safe environment. These sessions are entirely free to attend, making them the perfect opportunity for local families to connect and start their mornings with energy and joy. Whether you are looking for a way to keep the kids entertained or seeking a fun community experience, our play dates offer the ideal setting for making new friends. We encourage all interested parents and guardians to monitor our Facebook page for the latest updates and any schedule adjustments. Come visit us at 2701 Lawnview Lane between 9 and 10:30 a.m. to experience the fun firsthand. We look forward to seeing you and your little ones on the lawn this August.

North Hills Kids is back for the summer of 2026, bringing high-energy excitement to families in the Raleigh area. This popular seasonal series is specifically designed for preschool-aged children to enjoy engaging and themed activities in a vibrant outdoor setting. Join us at Midtown Park on the third Tuesday of each month from June through August, between 9:30 and 11 a.m., for a morning of organized fun and play. These events offer a wonderful opportunity for your little ones to explore new themes and interact with peers in a safe environment. Please be aware that some sessions have limited supplies available, so we recommend arriving promptly as participation is based on a first come, first served basis. These events are completely free to the public, making them an excellent way to keep your children active and entertained during the summer months. Whether you are a local resident or visiting the area, North Hills Kids provides the perfect atmosphere for family bonding. We invite you to visit our website at visitnorthills.com/events to see the full schedule and learn more about our upcoming programs. Bring your preschooler to North Hills and create lasting summer memories with us.

Triangle Cinemas, located at 9500 Forum Drive in Raleigh, North Carolina, invites local families to enjoy a series of complimentary movie screenings throughout the summer months. From June 16 to August 20, 2026, guests can catch a variety of popular films, including the beloved feature Trolls, every Tuesday through Thursday, with several special Friday showings added to the schedule. Doors open promptly at 9:30 a.m. each morning, with the screenings starting at 10:00 a.m. This community-focused initiative provides a fantastic, budget-friendly way for children to stay entertained and engaged during their summer break. While no outside food or beverages are permitted inside the theater, a variety of tasty treats will be available for purchase at the concessions stand. Whether you are looking to escape the heat or simply enjoy a morning of cinema with your little ones, this program is the perfect outing. We encourage you to visit our website today to check the full schedule of films and plan your next visit to Triangle Cinemas for an unforgettable summer movie experience.

The 2026 Progressive NCRVDA Raleigh Fall RV Show and Sale is a comprehensive regional event showcasing the latest recreational vehicles and camping equipment. This gathering serves as the premier shopping destination for enthusiasts across the Carolinas and Virginia looking to explore new travel options and outdoor equipment. Attendees can browse a vast selection of inventory from top regional dealers tailored to various budgets and lifestyle needs. The event features educational seminars led by industry experts to help participants learn about maintenance, travel planning, and RV operation. These sessions provide essential knowledge for both first time buyers and experienced owners aiming to enhance their travel experiences. This show is designed for families, pet owners, and individuals seeking reliable vehicles for their next adventure. Whether you are ready to purchase a new unit or simply interested in gathering information, the event offers a professional environment to compare models and ask direct questions. Join us in Raleigh to discover the right fit for your travel goals and start planning your next journey today. We look forward to welcoming you to the Carolinas largest RV shopping experience.

Experience the vibrant energy of the Cary Night Market, a premier monthly gathering held at the beautiful Downtown Cary Park. From March through December 2025, excluding July, visitors are invited to explore a curated selection of forty-five to fifty local vendors each Friday evening from 5 to 9 p.m. This recurring event celebrates community spirit by showcasing talented artisans, creative crafters, and delicious offerings from popular local food trucks. Whether you are searching for one-of-a-kind handmade goods or simply looking to enjoy a pleasant evening outdoors, this market offers something for everyone. Beyond the diverse shopping opportunities, many of our evening markets feature exciting seasonal themes and additional interactive activities to enhance your experience. It is the perfect opportunity to support small businesses and connect with local creators in the heart of the Triangle area. Do not miss your chance to be a part of this growing local tradition. We encourage you to visit our website today to view our full schedule and plan your visit to the next market event.

Experience the vibrant heart of the local creative scene at the Durham Craft Market, held every Saturday morning at Durham Central Park. This juried, artist-run collective showcases the exceptional talents of over fifty artisans who live and work within thirty miles of the city. Whether you are searching for unique handmade gifts, home decor, or one-of-a-kind treasures, you will find an incredible variety of high-quality items crafted with care and passion. The market offers a welcoming space for neighbors and visitors to connect directly with the talented individuals who help define the artistic culture of the region. Attending the market is completely free, making it the perfect weekend destination for those who value shopping local and supporting small businesses. During the warmer months, the market runs from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m., while the winter season features adjusted hours from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. We invite you to visit 501 Foster Street this Saturday to discover the best handmade goods the Triangle has to offer. Bring your friends and family to enjoy a morning of community, creativity, and discovery in the heart of Durham.