Total Tot Time: Free Play Program for Kids

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.

Join Durham Parks and Recreation for Total Tot Time, an engaging and complimentary play program designed specifically for children ages newborn to five years old. This recurring event offers an excellent opportunity for little ones to socialize, explore, and stay active in a safe, welcoming environment. Whether your child enjoys playing with a colorful parachute, crawling through tunnels, or practicing basic movement skills, there is something here to spark every young imagination. Beyond providing a fun space for children, this program fosters meaningful interaction between parents and caregivers, creating a supportive community atmosphere. The weekly sessions run every Monday and Wednesday morning from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the W.D. Hill Recreation Center. No prior reservation is necessary, so please feel free to drop in and join the fun at your convenience. We invite all families in the area to bring their little ones for an energetic morning of play and discovery. This is the perfect setting to build new friendships while enjoying high quality recreation time. We look forward to seeing you and your tot in the gym very soon.

Are you looking to boost your digital confidence and stay connected in today's fast-paced world? Durham Parks and Recreation is thrilled to offer a specialized Computer Refresher course designed exclusively for adults ages 50 and older. This engaging series is hosted at the W.D. Recreation Center and provides a supportive environment where participants can sharpen their technical skills at a comfortable pace. Whether you want to brush up on internet navigation, email communication, or general device usage, this course offers valuable insights and hands-on practice to help you navigate modern technology with ease. Classes are held on Tuesday mornings from September 8 to September 29, with a second session running from October 6 to October 27. Because we are committed to providing personalized guidance to every student, class sizes are kept small. Please note that registration is mandatory to secure your spot in this popular program. Do not miss this fantastic opportunity to expand your knowledge and master the tools of the digital age. Register today to join our vibrant learning community and take your first step toward tech proficiency.

Experience the revitalizing benefits of community wellness at Free Yoga in Durham Central Park. Every Tuesday evening at 6 p.m. through September 8, 2026, participants are invited to join gentle mat yoga sessions held under the welcoming cover of the Durham Central Park Pavilion. These sessions are designed to accommodate all levels of experience, fostering a peaceful environment for movement and mindfulness in the heart of the city. To ensure accessibility for our diverse community, the instruction rotates between bilingual sessions in English and Spanish and standard English sessions. Whether you are a seasoned practitioner or a curious beginner, these classes offer the perfect opportunity to improve your fitness and connect with your neighbors. Please remember to bring your own yoga mat and a bottle of water to stay hydrated throughout the practice. Limited props will be available on a first-come, first-served basis, so arrive early to secure your spot. We look forward to seeing you there to stretch, breathe, and strengthen together in this beautiful outdoor setting.

The Cozy Cryptid Fall Market is a curated shopping event held in October that focuses on mythical creatures and autumn themes. This market serves as a community gathering for fans of folklore and local artistry to celebrate the Halloween season. Attendees can browse collections from thirty local artists and makers. The vendors will feature unique, cryptid-themed creations and seasonal Halloween art. The event provides an opportunity to purchase handcrafted goods directly from creators while enjoying a focused, thematic shopping experience. The layout is designed to facilitate easy navigation for all guests visiting the market stalls. This event is ideal for anyone interested in supporting local small businesses and discovering niche artistic interpretations of mythical beings. The atmosphere is intended to be welcoming and festive, providing a relaxed environment to browse and shop. Whether you are an enthusiast of urban legends or simply looking for seasonal home goods, this market offers a distinct collection of items you will not find elsewhere. Please mark your calendar and join us to support our creative community and celebrate the spirit of the fall season.

Horsegirls is an inspiring film screening that follows the journey of 22 year old Margarita, a young woman with autism, as she discovers hobby horsing. The story highlights her determination to prove her independence to her mother after a health crisis, showcasing her unique path to self discovery through this unconventional sport. Attendees will experience a heartfelt cinematic narrative that explores themes of growth, hobby horsing, and personal agency. The film captures the challenges and triumphs of navigating adulthood while managing neurodivergence. It provides an honest look at family dynamics and the healing power of personal passions. The production quality delivers a focused, character driven story that resonates with audiences interested in human interest dramas. This event is ideal for film enthusiasts, advocates for neurodiversity, and anyone interested in stories of resilience. The atmosphere is contemplative and uplifting, making it a meaningful experience for those seeking authentic character narratives. Join us for this special presentation and witness how one young woman finds her strength. Please secure your tickets in advance to ensure your seat for this impactful screening.

Experience an evening of community spirit at Moore Square for the First Friday Market and Movie Night. Hosted by Raleigh Parks and Get 2 Know Raleigh, this monthly event series brings the heart of the city to life every first Friday from May through November. Join us on September 4, 2026, for a special screening of the inspiring film Remember the Titans. The festivities begin at 5 p.m. with a vibrant local vendor market, delicious offerings from popular food trucks, and live music performed by talented regional artists. Attendees are encouraged to take advantage of the free to play games available on the lawn before the feature presentation begins at 7:15 p.m. This is the perfect opportunity to enjoy a memorable night under the stars with friends and family. Please remember to bring your own blankets or folding chairs to ensure a comfortable viewing experience. We recommend arriving early to secure your spot and explore everything the market has to offer. Visit the Get 2 Know Raleigh Facebook page for real-time weather updates and further information regarding this exciting community celebration.

Experience an evening of inspiration at the Eno Arts Mill in Hillsborough, a vibrant hub managed by the Orange County Arts Commission. On September 4 from 6 to 9 p.m., join us for a special First Friday celebration featuring the captivating Colors of Soul exhibit, curated by the Inter-Latin American Artist Collective. This event brings together an impressive lineup of talented local creators to share their vision with the community. The evening promises a dynamic blend of visual arts, live musical performances, and poetic expressions. Beyond the main exhibit, attendees can explore open artist studios and discover the diverse range of creative workshops available, spanning from fiber arts to figure drawing. It is the perfect opportunity to engage with local culture and support regional artists in a unique historic setting. We invite everyone to visit the Eno Arts Mill for this free, energetic gathering. Whether you are an art enthusiast or looking for a meaningful outing, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Please visit the official website to learn more and secure your spot today.

Experience the vibrant energy of community music making at the One Tribe Drum Circle held at the scenic Dix Park Stone Houses Visitor Center in Raleigh. Taking place on the first Friday of every month from June through November, these sessions offer a unique opportunity to connect with others through the power of rhythm. Whether you are an experienced percussionist or a complete beginner, all are welcome to participate in this uplifting and stress-relieving activity. You are encouraged to bring your own hand percussion instruments, though One Tribe provides plenty of gear for those who do not have their own. Seating is provided for your convenience, ensuring a comfortable environment for everyone to enjoy the music. This inclusive event is designed to promote self-expression and foster local connections in a beautiful outdoor setting. While registration is requested, the organizers welcome drop-in attendees even if the event appears sold out online. Join us for this accessible and rhythmic celebration of community spirit. For the latest updates and additional details, please follow One Tribe on their official social media pages.

The Cozy Cryptid Fall Market is a curated shopping event held in October that focuses on mythical creatures and autumn themes. This market serves as a community gathering for fans of folklore and local artistry to celebrate the Halloween season. Attendees can browse collections from thirty local artists and makers. The vendors will feature unique, cryptid-themed creations and seasonal Halloween art. The event provides an opportunity to purchase handcrafted goods directly from creators while enjoying a focused, thematic shopping experience. The layout is designed to facilitate easy navigation for all guests visiting the market stalls. This event is ideal for anyone interested in supporting local small businesses and discovering niche artistic interpretations of mythical beings. The atmosphere is intended to be welcoming and festive, providing a relaxed environment to browse and shop. Whether you are an enthusiast of urban legends or simply looking for seasonal home goods, this market offers a distinct collection of items you will not find elsewhere. Please mark your calendar and join us to support our creative community and celebrate the spirit of the fall season.