The Witch's Haunted Barn

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.

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.

Experience the charm of country living at Front Porch Fridays held at Haven Farm in Knightdale, North Carolina. Every Friday evening from 6 to 10 p.m., the farm opens its gates for a relaxing community gathering. This recurring event is entirely free to attend, providing a wonderful atmosphere for visitors to unwind and enjoy the rustic surroundings. Please remember to check the official Haven Farm Facebook page for any updates regarding weather conditions before you head out. In addition to the regular Friday festivities, the first Friday of every month features an exciting opportunity for a free campout. Families are encouraged to bring their tents and gear to spend the night under the stars, followed by a cozy morning coffee at the farm shop. Whether you are looking for a peaceful evening out or a unique outdoor adventure, these events are perfect for creating lasting memories with your loved ones. Plan your visit to 8521 Buffaloe Road today and experience the warm hospitality that makes Haven Farm a local favorite.

Join us for the Fall Festival and Plant Sale at the Briggs Avenue Community Garden in Durham on Saturday, September 12, 2026. This vibrant event, hosted by the NCSU Cooperative Extension of Durham County, welcomes community members of all skill levels to celebrate the season. Whether you are an experienced gardener or just beginning your horticultural journey, you will find plenty of opportunities to learn, connect with local growers, and appreciate the natural beauty of our shared green space. Browse a variety of unique plants, gain expert gardening tips, and enjoy an energetic atmosphere designed for families and neighbors alike. This gathering is a wonderful way to foster community spirit while preparing your own garden for the upcoming months. Admission to the festival is entirely free, making it an accessible outing for everyone. While we welcome attendees at no cost, voluntary donations are greatly appreciated to help support the ongoing maintenance and educational outreach of the garden. We invite you to visit us at 1314 South Briggs Avenue from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. We look forward to seeing you there.

Experience the joy of rural life at the Sunrise Community Farm Center in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. This welcoming destination is designed for individuals of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds to connect with nature and farm animals in a peaceful setting. Every Saturday, rain or shine, the farm opens its gates from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., ensuring that guests can enjoy the outdoors regardless of the weather conditions. With extensive covered areas, your comfort is guaranteed throughout your visit. General admission is affordably priced at 8 dollars per person, providing a wonderful opportunity for families and friends to explore the grounds together. For those seeking a little extra adventure, pony and horse rides are available by reservation. Booking a ride package for 18 dollars covers both your general admission and the ride experience. Whether you are looking for a weekend escape or an educational outing, our farm offers a unique and inclusive atmosphere for everyone. We invite you to visit our website to secure your tickets and plan your trip today. Join us this Saturday for a memorable day in the fresh air.

This workshop is a guided hands-on session where participants learn to create a custom stained glass pumpkin. You will master the fundamental techniques of glass crafting while assembling your own holiday piece to take home. No prior experience is required to participate in this event. Attendees will receive step by step instruction on foiling, assembling, and soldering glass components. Professional tools and materials are provided for all participants. The instructor manages the process to ensure safety and precision throughout the session. If your project requires extra attention, we offer additional studio time at no extra cost to guarantee you complete your work successfully. This event is designed for beginners who want to explore glass art in a supportive environment. With a capacity limited to ten seats, you will receive personalized attention and plenty of workspace. The atmosphere is focused and collaborative, making it an excellent opportunity to learn a new skill. Secure your spot today to experience this creative process and leave with a handmade decoration for your home.

This workshop provides a guided introduction to stained glass art through the creation of a vintage haunts cat piece. Participants will gain practical experience in fundamental glass techniques in a small group setting. The session serves as an accessible entry point for those interested in learning specialized craft skills. You will learn to foil, assemble, and solder glass components to finish your own unique decorative piece. An expert instructor will guide you through each stage of the process to ensure proper technique and safety. You will receive all necessary tools and materials during the class. By the end of the session, you will leave with a completed work of art ready for display. This event is designed for beginners and requires no prior artistic experience. With a strict limit of ten seats per session, each attendee receives personalized instruction in a focused and collaborative environment. This small group structure ensures that you receive direct feedback and assistance throughout the assembly process. Register now to secure your space and explore the rewarding craft of stained glass construction.

This workshop offers a unique hands-on experience where participants create their own stained glass art piece. The event combines creative craftsmanship with a fun social atmosphere designed for those looking to try a new artistic skill in a themed setting. Whether you are a beginner or have some artistic background, this session provides a structured environment to produce a custom handmade item to take home. During the class, you will learn essential stained glass techniques including foiling, assembling, and soldering. Our professional instructor will guide you through each phase of the process, ensuring you feel confident using the tools and materials provided. All necessary equipment is supplied on site, so you do not need to bring any specialized gear or prior experience to participate in this project. This event is perfect for individuals or couples seeking an engaging and memorable activity. Because we limit attendance to ten seats, you will receive personalized attention and plenty of space to work comfortably. Space is limited, so we encourage you to reserve your spot early to secure your place in this exclusive workshop.