WHY? Party presents Love, Death, & Robots at Bitter Social

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.

Get ready to dance the night away at Salsa at the Park, an energetic monthly series brought to you by the Oak City Music Collective. Held on the second Friday of each month from July through October 2026, this vibrant event takes place at the beautiful Knightdale Station Park in North Carolina. Whether you are a seasoned pro or a complete beginner, this celebration offers the perfect opportunity to enjoy rhythmic Latin beats in a welcoming outdoor setting. The evening kicks off with a beginner-friendly community dance lesson from 6:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., allowing everyone to learn the fundamentals before the main act. From 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., the stage comes alive with high-energy performances from professional salsa orchestras, including the renowned West End Mambo. Beyond the music, guests can explore local vendor markets and indulge in a variety of delicious offerings from popular food trucks. This community-focused event is completely free and open to guests of all ages. Bring your friends, family, and dancing shoes to Knightdale Station Park for an unforgettable night of music, culture, and community spirit. Join us this season for a rhythmic experience you will not want to miss.

Experience the joy of global culture through movement with the Raleigh International Folk Dancers. Established in 1968, this welcoming community invites individuals of all skill levels to discover the vibrant traditions of dance from around the world. Whether you are a seasoned dancer or someone taking their very first steps, you will find a supportive environment where no partners or prior experience are required to participate. Join the group every Friday evening at the Glen Eden Pilot Park in Raleigh. The sessions begin at 6:30 p.m. with instruction on easier, beginner-friendly routines, gradually transitioning into more intermediate and advanced choreographies as the night progresses until 10 p.m. This weekly gathering is completely free to the public, made possible through the generous support of Raleigh Parks and Recreation. Come to learn, exercise, or simply observe the rhythmic beauty of international heritage in action. It is a fantastic way to connect with the community while staying active. If you have any questions, please reach out to Brown Patton via email to learn more about joining this inclusive group of enthusiasts.

Electric Feels is a recurring dance party dedicated to the fusion of indie rock and electronic music. The event provides a high energy environment where attendees can experience a curated selection of tracks from both genres in a social setting. Participants can expect a continuous mix of popular indie hits and upbeat electronic dance music throughout the night. Professional DJs will manage the soundscape to ensure a seamless flow between nostalgic indie anthems and modern dance floor favorites. The venue features a spacious dance floor, full bar service, and a professional lighting setup designed to enhance the overall atmosphere of the evening. This event is tailored for fans of indie rock and electronic music who enjoy dancing and connecting with like minded people. Whether you are a dedicated music lover or just looking for a lively weekend activity, this party offers a welcoming space for everyone. Tickets are available online in advance, and guests are encouraged to arrive early to avoid lines at the door. Join us for a night of rhythm and high energy music.

Experience an exquisite exploration of fine wines at Bottle Theory, located in the heart of Apex. Every Friday evening from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m., we invite you to join us for our complimentary wine tastings. This event provides a fantastic opportunity to sample a rotating selection of staff favorites and exciting new arrivals carefully curated to please every palate. Whether you are a seasoned oenophile or just beginning your journey into the world of wine, our knowledgeable staff is eager to guide you through these diverse and flavorful profiles. Beyond our weekly tastings, Bottle Theory serves as a vibrant hub for community engagement. Our venue offers a relaxing atmosphere that is perfect for winding down after a long week with friends or family. We take pride in hosting regular events that foster connection and enjoyment in our local community. We encourage you to visit our website to view our complete event calendar and stay updated on all upcoming gatherings. We look forward to welcoming you soon to discover your new favorite bottle and share a glass with us.

The Watercolor Society of North Carolina invites you to a public gallery reception showcasing a statewide watercolor exhibition. This event highlights original works from artists of all experience levels to celebrate the diversity and technical creativity found within the watercolor medium. Attendees can view a wide range of paintings while enjoying an evening of live music and complimentary refreshments. The gallery space provides an opportunity to interact with the creative community and observe diverse artistic perspectives in a relaxed setting. You will find professional quality compositions alongside emerging talent from across the region. This event is open to artists, collectors, and anyone with an interest in contemporary visual arts. Whether you are a long time enthusiast or new to the medium, the atmosphere offers an approachable way to engage with the North Carolina art scene. We encourage you to attend to support local artists and gain inspiration from the talent on display. Please join us for this unique exhibition and reception to experience the vibrant possibilities of watercolor painting in person. We look forward to welcoming you to the gallery for an evening of art and conversation.

Join us for a live watch party as the NC State Wolfpack face off against the Richmond Spiders. This event provides a dedicated space for fans to gather and follow the game in a high energy environment designed for optimal sports viewing. Attendees can expect an immersive game day experience featuring dozens of large screens to ensure every play is visible from any seat. We will serve a full menu of elevated pub fare alongside a wide selection of ice cold beverages. The venue is equipped to handle large groups and provides clear audio throughout the space to keep everyone connected to the live broadcast commentary. This event is open to all NC State supporters and college basketball enthusiasts looking for a premier viewing location. The atmosphere is social and communal, making it the perfect spot to cheer on the Wolfpack with fellow fans. We encourage guests to arrive early to secure preferred seating before tip off. Come experience the excitement of the game with us and enjoy a high quality venue built for sports lovers.

Serving Brunch is a monthly event featuring live drag and burlesque performances held at our venue. This event combines high-energy entertainment with a casual dining experience to offer a unique weekend outing for our local community. The September production is hosted by Soultry Sweetzzzz. Featured performers include Babylon Mystere, Darshe Dazzles, Chartreuse Divinity, Goddess Bleu Pearl, and Red Holy Waters. Guests can enjoy a curated brunch buffet provided by Nation Pantry alongside a full selection of beverages available at the bar throughout the show. This production highlights diverse talent and creative stage work in an intimate setting. This event is designed for adults seeking a vibrant atmosphere and engaging live performance art. Whether you are a long-time fan of drag and burlesque or simply looking for an entertaining way to enjoy a meal, this brunch offers a welcoming environment for all. We invite you to join us for an afternoon of artistry and dining. Secure your spot today to experience this special monthly showcase with our talented cast and local catering partners.

Join us for a beginner friendly bachata dance night at Cuya in downtown Raleigh. This event is specifically designed to bring the sapphic community together for an evening of connection and movement through dance. The session focuses on building community while learning foundational Latin dance steps in a relaxed environment. The evening begins with a guided bachata lesson led by instructors Amy and DJ Cokie. Participants will cover basic steps, rhythm, and flow. Following the instructional period, the floor will open for attendees to practice their new skills and enjoy music for the remainder of the night. Guests can also enjoy drinks and Latin cuisine available for purchase at the venue. This event is ideal for anyone looking to try something new, meet other people in the sapphic community, or simply enjoy a night of dancing. The atmosphere is low pressure and welcoming for all experience levels. Please arrive on time, as the dancing will begin promptly at seven forty-five. We look forward to seeing you there for a night of music and community engagement.

This speed dating event is designed to help sapphic singles aged 25 and older connect with new people in the Raleigh area. Our goal is to provide a structured yet low pressure environment where queer women can meet for dates or build new friendships. Participants will engage in multiple one on one rounds with various attendees to spark authentic conversation. The evening features guided speed dating sessions supported by conversation prompts to facilitate easy interactions. Attendees will have access to curated drinks available for purchase throughout the event. Between rounds, there is dedicated time for open mingling to ensure everyone can connect in a relaxed setting. These activities are designed to streamline introductions and help you meet people you might not encounter in your daily routine. This event is perfect for those seeking genuine connections within the local queer community. We cultivate a welcoming atmosphere that removes the pressure often associated with traditional dating. If you are looking for a fun night out to meet like minded individuals, register today to secure your spot.

Join us for a live watch party as the NC State Wolfpack face off against the Richmond Spiders. This event provides a dedicated space for fans to gather and follow the game in a high energy environment designed for optimal sports viewing. Attendees can expect an immersive game day experience featuring dozens of large screens to ensure every play is visible from any seat. We will serve a full menu of elevated pub fare alongside a wide selection of ice cold beverages. The venue is equipped to handle large groups and provides clear audio throughout the space to keep everyone connected to the live broadcast commentary. This event is open to all NC State supporters and college basketball enthusiasts looking for a premier viewing location. The atmosphere is social and communal, making it the perfect spot to cheer on the Wolfpack with fellow fans. We encourage guests to arrive early to secure preferred seating before tip off. Come experience the excitement of the game with us and enjoy a high quality venue built for sports lovers.

The Staind Break The Cycle 25th Anniversary Tour brings together a powerhouse lineup of iconic alt-rock and post-grunge bands for a night of high-energy performances. This tour marks a significant milestone for Staind as they celebrate their legendary album with a career-spanning setlist that balances heavy guitar work with emotional melodic performances. Attendees can look forward to a comprehensive musical experience featuring live renditions of classic hits. Supporting acts include the South African rock trio Seether who bring their hard-hitting discography to the stage alongside the long-standing American band Hoobastank. The lineup is completed by Hinder known for their distinct post-grunge sound and platinum-selling anthems. Fans will experience a diverse showcase of rock history with every band delivering their signature tracks that defined the sound of the early two thousands. This event is designed for rock music enthusiasts who appreciate the raw energy of the post-grunge era. The concert atmosphere promises a professional and powerful live environment where fans can connect with artists who shaped a decade of rock music. Secure your tickets now to be part of this special anniversary celebration and experience these influential bands live on one stage.

The Moonlit Bat Stained Glass Workshop is an interactive craft session where participants learn to create custom glass art. This hands-on event focuses on the technical fundamentals of glasswork in an accessible, supportive environment designed for beginners. During the workshop, you will work through the core stages of stained glass production. Guided by a professional instructor, you will foil, assemble, and solder your own unique moonlit bat design. All necessary tools and materials are provided on site to ensure you can complete your project during the session. You will walk away with a finished piece ready to display. This event is perfect for individuals or small groups looking to develop a new skill or enjoy a creative night out. Whether you have zero prior experience or are curious about the stained glass craft, the process is straightforward and engaging. The atmosphere is collaborative, productive, and focused on helping everyone succeed regardless of their artistic background. Secure your spot today to learn the craft and take home your own handcrafted glass art.