Wake Forest National Night Out

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.

Birdwatching for Beginners is an introductory outdoor program designed to teach you the fundamentals of identifying local bird species. The event focuses on providing practical skills for those new to birding in an approachable and supportive environment. Participants will engage in a guided walk covering approximately one mile of diverse terrain. We will observe various habitats to locate birds while practicing identification techniques. You will also learn about collaborative science projects and how to contribute your observational data to real research initiatives. This hands-on experience provides a meaningful way to engage with the natural environment while building your knowledge of local wildlife. This event is open to everyone ages eight and older. It offers a relaxed and steady pace suitable for all skill levels. If you are interested in learning a new hobby that connects you with nature and supports scientific research, this session is an excellent starting point. We invite you to join us for an informative outing. Please come prepared for a moderate walk outdoors. We look forward to exploring the local landscape with you and identifying the species that call it home.

Join us on the rooftop for a hands-on cocktail crafting workshop hosted in collaboration with the professional team from On My Way Bartending. This event provides an interactive evening focused on mixology techniques paired with a curated menu of signature small bites from the High Rail kitchen. Participants will learn to mix classic and contemporary cocktails under the guidance of expert bartenders. You will receive step-by-step instructions on essential preparation methods, flavor balancing, and garnishing techniques. Between sessions, guests will enjoy a selection of High Rail appetizers designed to complement the drink pairings. All necessary tools, premium spirits, and fresh ingredients are provided for every guest. This experience is ideal for cocktail enthusiasts, groups of friends, or anyone looking to learn a new skill in a social setting. The rooftop environment offers a relaxed yet energetic atmosphere perfect for an evening out. Space is limited to ensure a personalized experience for all attendees. Please book your spot in advance to secure your participation for this exclusive culinary and mixology event.

This course provides hands-on training for welding thin gauge metals without causing warping or burn-through. It is designed to help participants master heat control when working with delicate materials like automotive body panels or fine art sculptures. Students will learn specific techniques to manage heat input effectively. The curriculum covers essential connections including spot welding, plug welding, and lap welding. You will practice these methods on sample joints to gain confidence in your technique. By the end of the session, you will possess the practical skills needed to tackle rust repair and precision metal projects. This class is ideal for individuals who want to improve their technical welding capabilities. A foundational understanding of fabrication or previous welding experience is required to ensure success. The environment is focused, productive, and centered on skill development. We encourage you to sign up now to secure your spot and start refining your craft with our experienced instructors. Please confirm you meet the prerequisite requirements before registering for this session.

Birdwatching for Beginners is an introductory outdoor program designed to teach you the fundamentals of identifying local bird species. The event focuses on providing practical skills for those new to birding in an approachable and supportive environment. Participants will engage in a guided walk covering approximately one mile of diverse terrain. We will observe various habitats to locate birds while practicing identification techniques. You will also learn about collaborative science projects and how to contribute your observational data to real research initiatives. This hands-on experience provides a meaningful way to engage with the natural environment while building your knowledge of local wildlife. This event is open to everyone ages eight and older. It offers a relaxed and steady pace suitable for all skill levels. If you are interested in learning a new hobby that connects you with nature and supports scientific research, this session is an excellent starting point. We invite you to join us for an informative outing. Please come prepared for a moderate walk outdoors. We look forward to exploring the local landscape with you and identifying the species that call it home.

Experience a world of wonder at the Museum of Life and Science in Durham. This expansive eighty-four acre campus offers a thrilling blend of indoor and outdoor exhibits designed to spark curiosity in visitors of all ages. Explore fascinating displays ranging from physics and weather to aerospace and zoology. Guests can visit the interactive Farmyard, observe majestic black bears and red wolves, or wander through the enchanting Butterfly House rainforest. The museum provides an engaging environment that encourages hands-on learning and active exploration. During Durham Community Days, residents of Durham County are invited to enjoy free admission as a gesture of appreciation for the local community. This is a fantastic opportunity to bring the whole family to discover new scientific concepts while enjoying a memorable day out. Whether you are climbing, digging, or exploring nature, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Please remember to bring valid proof of residency to qualify for free entry. Visit our website today to check the full schedule of upcoming Community Day dates and plan your next scientific adventure at one of the most popular attractions in the region.

Join a park naturalist for an educational guided hike through the park. This event provides an opportunity to explore local ecosystems and discover the diverse plants and animals that inhabit our area. The session aims to foster a deeper understanding of the natural world through expert observation and direct experience. Participants will traverse natural-surfaced trails while receiving insights from a knowledgeable guide. You will learn about regional wildlife and plant species as you walk. The tour covers at least one mile, offering a practical way to connect with the park environment while gaining scientific knowledge about the local flora and fauna. The focus remains on engagement and observation throughout the route. This hike is suitable for nature enthusiasts, families, and anyone interested in local ecology. Attendees should be prepared to walk on uneven terrain. To ensure your comfort and safety, please wear sturdy closed-toe shoes and bring a full water bottle. We invite you to join us for this morning of exploration and discovery. Please arrive on time to meet the group and prepare for our departure into the park.

Lace up your sneakers and join the vibrant NC Run Club community for a refreshing group run. Hosted at the inviting Bottle Theory in Apex, this weekly event is designed for runners of all skill levels, from casual joggers to seasoned marathoners. Whether you are looking to improve your pace or simply enjoy a social workout, you will find a welcoming atmosphere and plenty of encouragement from fellow participants. It is the perfect way to get moving, meet new friends, and enjoy the beautiful local scenery. After completing your run, stick around to relax and recharge with your fellow club members. Bottle Theory offers a fantastic selection of drinks and delicious food options, making it the ideal spot to unwind after a productive evening of exercise. There is no better way to kick off your Thursday night than with a combination of healthy activity and great company. We invite you to lace up, show up, and become part of our growing local running family. We look forward to seeing you at the starting line.

Experience the vibrant energy of downtown Raleigh with the Jazz in the Square concert series, proudly presented by the Downtown Raleigh Alliance. Join us at the scenic Moore Square for an unforgettable series of live performances that celebrate the rich tradition of jazz music. Taking place on select Thursdays from August through early October, this event offers the perfect opportunity to unwind and enjoy high quality entertainment in a beautiful outdoor urban park setting. Attendees can enhance their evening by visiting our onsite food trucks, which provide a diverse array of local culinary delights. Additionally, guests can enjoy a curated selection of beer and wine available for purchase throughout the event. Whether you are a dedicated jazz enthusiast or simply looking for a relaxing way to spend a weekday evening, these concerts provide a welcoming atmosphere for everyone in the community. Admission to these performances is completely free, making it an accessible outing for residents and visitors alike. We invite you to bring your friends, grab a chair, and immerse yourself in the sounds of talented musicians. Mark your calendars for an exceptional summer and autumn experience in the heart of Raleigh.

Join us for an authentic Stammtisch German community night at Der Nachbar Bottleshop and Taps in Durham. This welcoming event invites you to celebrate German culture while enjoying refreshing steins of premium German beer offered at standard pint pricing. Located at 4916 Hillsborough Road, our venue provides the perfect atmosphere for conversation and camaraderie. Guests can relax in our inviting indoor space or head out to our pet-friendly patio to enjoy the evening air. While we specialize in a diverse selection of twenty rotating taps, wine, and non-alcoholic beverages, you are encouraged to bring your own takeout or snacks to pair with your drinks. We occasionally feature delicious local treats like fresh pretzels from Guglhupf Bakery to complement the experience. Our doors are open to everyone, making this an ideal gathering spot for friends, neighbors, and local enthusiasts to connect in a casual environment. Whether you are a regular or a newcomer, we invite you to pull up a seat and experience the vibrant local community. We look forward to welcoming you for a fantastic evening of great company and exceptional brews.