Town of Garner Diwali Celebration

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.

Join the community at The Plant in Pittsboro on Sunday, August 16, 2026, for the inaugural Piedmont Pear Party. This vibrant gathering celebrates the harvest season with a variety of engaging activities designed for visitors of all ages. From noon until 6 p.m., guests can explore the unique grounds while enjoying an afternoon dedicated to all things pear. The event promises a lively atmosphere filled with local spirit and seasonal fun. Attendees can look forward to specialized creative sessions, including Gelli printing with pears hosted by Roam Paint Press and fruit-themed watercolor classes at Starrlight Mead. While general admission to the event is completely free, there are plenty of opportunities to purchase delicious food and drinks, as well as participate in various artisanal activities throughout the afternoon. Whether you are looking to refine your artistic skills or simply enjoy a relaxing day in a beautiful setting, this party offers something for everyone. We invite you to bring your friends and family to experience the charm of The Plant. Mark your calendars and come celebrate the bounty of the harvest with us.

National Senior Citizens Day 2026 is a dedicated community celebration honoring the contributions and experiences of our senior citizens. This event serves as a platform to foster connection, appreciation, and joy through a curated day of social activities and shared experiences. Attendees can look forward to an engaging lineup of carnival style games designed for all skill levels and physical abilities. A complimentary lunch will be provided for all guests, offering a relaxed environment to socialize with friends and neighbors. The atmosphere is intended to be lighthearted and communal, prioritizing comfort and accessibility for all participants. This gathering is specifically designed for seniors looking to enjoy a day of entertainment and camaraderie in a welcoming setting. We invite you to join us for this special occasion to celebrate our community members and enjoy a day planned with your interests in mind. Please mark your calendars and prepare for a rewarding day of fun. We look forward to welcoming you to this celebratory event and ensuring a memorable experience for everyone involved.

Experience the ultimate culinary celebration at the Durham Foodie Fare, a recurring monthly event hosted by The MAKRS Society at Durham Central Park. Running from March through December, this vibrant gathering transforms the heart of the city into a bustling hub of creativity and flavor. Guests are invited to explore a diverse array of local makers, talented artists, and small businesses showcasing their unique crafts and goods in a lively outdoor setting. With more than twenty food trucks serving up a wide variety of delicious options, there is truly something to satisfy every craving. Beyond the incredible dining experiences, the event features curated music and a welcoming atmosphere perfect for friends and family alike. Whether you are looking to discover new local talent, enjoy a casual dinner under the stars, or simply soak in the energy of the Durham community, this event offers the perfect Friday evening destination. Best of all, admission is completely free for all attendees. Make plans to visit us at 501 Foster Street and join the local excitement. We look forward to seeing you there for an unforgettable night of food, art, and community spirit.

Experience the ultimate weekend treasure hunt at The Raleigh Market, located at the North Carolina State Fairgrounds. Every Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., this iconic destination transforms into a vibrant hub featuring hundreds of indoor and outdoor vendors. Whether you are searching for high-end antiques, unique jewelry, essential power tools, or handcrafted art, you are sure to find something special among the diverse selection of treasures collected over the last fifty years. Beyond the incredible variety of goods, come prepared to satisfy your cravings. The market features a rotating array of local food trucks, classic fair food, and fresh farm stands that offer something delicious for every palate. Admission and parking are both completely free, making this the perfect outing for families and friends alike. Join the thousands of shoppers who visit this regional landmark every weekend to discover hidden gems and support local vendors. Visit our official website to view the current vendor list, or follow our social media channels for the latest event updates and announcements. We look forward to seeing you at the fairgrounds this weekend.

The Dog Days of Summer Brunch is a family friendly community event in Raleigh held to support the Carolina Boxer Rescue. Guests are invited to enjoy a meal while participating in activities designed for both children and their canine companions. Attendees can visit the Adopt a Puppy station where children receive adoption certificates and decorate custom dog houses. The event features face painting and photo opportunities with dogs from the rescue organization. Guests are encouraged to bring their own leashed pets to join the festivities. These activities provide an interactive environment for animal lovers to engage with the local rescue community while enjoying brunch. This event is ideal for local families and pet owners looking for a meaningful way to spend their weekend. The atmosphere is casual, welcoming, and centered on animal welfare. By attending, you contribute directly to a local cause as ten percent of all brunch sales will be donated to the Carolina Boxer Rescue. Join us for a morning of fun and help us support this important organization.

Experience a journey back in time at Historic Yates Mill County Park, home to the last operational water powered gristmill in Wake County. Join us for our recurring Mill Open House, where visitors are invited to explore the fascinating history and mechanics of this 200 year old landmark. Historic interpreters will be on site to showcase the inner workings of the mill and answer your questions about how this vital piece of local heritage processed grain for generations. This drop in program offers a unique opportunity to witness history in action within a stunning 174 acre wildlife refuge. Beyond the mill, take advantage of the park's scenic walking trails, beautiful gardens, and peaceful picnic areas. Whether you are a history enthusiast or simply looking for a relaxing day in nature, there is something for everyone to enjoy at this environmental research center. Admission to the open house is free and no registration is required, making it an ideal weekend activity for families and individuals alike. We look forward to seeing you at the mill to discover this hidden gem in the heart of Raleigh.

Experience the vibrant spirit of German culture at the upcoming Stammtisch event hosted by Der Nachbar Bottleshop and Taps in Durham. This recurring community night is the perfect opportunity to connect with fellow enthusiasts while enjoying refreshing steins of authentic German beer available at special pint pricing. Whether you are a local regular or a new visitor, you will appreciate the welcoming atmosphere of this neighborhood spot located on Hillsborough Road. Der Nachbar features twenty rotating taps, a curated selection of wines, and non-alcoholic options, ensuring every guest finds their perfect drink. The venue offers a dog-friendly patio and an outdoor serving window for your convenience. While you are welcome to bring in your own food or enjoy treats from featured local vendors, the friendly environment makes it an ideal setting for socialization and relaxation. Bring your friends and enjoy an evening filled with great conversation and exceptional brews. We encourage you to visit our location this week to participate in this engaging community tradition and discover why our patrons love our diverse event calendar.

Experience the joy of global cultures through movement with the Raleigh International Folk Dancers. Established in 1968, this vibrant community invites you to explore traditional dances from around the world every Friday evening at Glen Eden Pilot Park. Whether you are a seasoned dancer or a complete beginner, this inclusive environment welcomes everyone to join in the fun. You do not need a partner or prior experience to participate, as the group dedicates the early portion of each session to teaching easier steps before progressing to intermediate and advanced routines later in the evening. This weekly gathering is completely free of charge, generously supported by Raleigh Park and Recreation. It is a fantastic way to stay active, meet new friends, and learn something new in an encouraging setting. If you prefer to simply observe the artistry and energy of the group, you are more than welcome to stop by and watch. For more information or to reach the organizers, please contact Brown Patton via email. We look forward to seeing you on the dance floor soon.

Mahjong and Mingle is a recurring social event designed for players of all skill levels to enjoy the game of American Mahjong. Hosted by Elizabeth, this evening provides a dedicated space for both newcomers and experienced players to connect over tiles, strategy, and conversation. The event offers two distinct sessions to accommodate different levels of expertise. Beginners can participate in a structured lesson that covers the fundamentals of the game, including equipment and rules, for a fee of 40 dollars. Elizabeth supplies all necessary materials for those just starting out. Open play is available for 20 dollars for those who already know the basics and want to join a table. Please bring your own 2026 NMJL card to participate in the open play session. This gathering is ideal for anyone looking to learn a classic game or practice their skills in a welcoming, organized setting. The atmosphere is social and inclusive, making it a great way to meet others in the community while sharpening your Mahjong abilities. Reserve your spot today to ensure your seat at the table.