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!

This three-hour mini-retreat provides a curated space for active adults 55 and older to engage in creative expression and wellness. Located at Mini-Acres Farm near Raleigh, the event focuses on nourishing the mind, body, and spirit through a blend of mindfulness, movement, and community connection. Participants will engage in guided creative activities, light physical movement, and facilitated conversation. The session is led by rhythm expert Greg Whitt and wellness coach Annelies Gentile, who combine their expertise to foster joy and personal exploration. Depending on the season, attendees can also experience blueberry picking and interactions with farm animals on the grounds. This retreat is designed to be accessible for all abilities and is ideal for those seeking a supportive environment to refresh their perspectives. It offers a unique opportunity to connect with peers in a natural, peaceful setting. If you are looking to spark curiosity and enjoy a morning of meaningful activity, we invite you to join us for this restorative experience. Please come prepared for an outdoor farm setting and a morning of gentle, creative engagement.

Join the Town of Chapel Hill and the Food Bank of Central and Eastern North Carolina for our recurring community food distribution events. These sessions are held on the second and fourth Wednesday of every month at the Eubanks Park and Ride lot. Our mission is to provide essential nutritional support to all community members in need, ensuring that local families have access to supplemental groceries in a convenient and welcoming environment. We encourage all participants to bring their own bags or boxes to help facilitate a smoother distribution process. These events are made possible through the generous dedication of our volunteers and collaborative partners. If you are looking for a meaningful way to give back, we invite you to sign up to volunteer and assist with our site operations. Your time and energy make a significant impact on the well-being of our neighbors. For those requiring more immediate or ongoing assistance, please visit the official Food Bank website to utilize their comprehensive locator tool by entering your zip code. We look forward to seeing you there and working together to foster a stronger, healthier Chapel Hill for everyone.

This three-hour mini-retreat provides a curated space for active adults aged 55 and older to nourish their well-being through creative exploration and connection. Set on the tranquil Mini-Acres Farm near Raleigh, the event focuses on enhancing personal vitality and mental clarity in a scenic nature setting. Participants will engage in a variety of guided activities, including light physical movement, mindfulness practices, and rhythmic sessions designed to spark joy. The program features expert facilitation from award-winning edutainer Greg Whitt and certified wellness coach Annelies Gentile. Depending on the seasonal timing, attendees may also enjoy farm-based experiences such as blueberry picking or interacting with friendly animals. These sessions combine integrative coaching and artistic expression to offer a balanced approach to wellness. This retreat is specifically tailored for individuals looking for a supportive community and meaningful personal growth. The welcoming atmosphere accommodates all ability levels, ensuring every participant feels included. Join us for a refreshing morning dedicated to your body, mind, and spirit. Secure your spot today to experience this unique blend of nature and creativity.

Stitched in Tradition is a public showcase at the North Carolina Museum of Art dedicated to exploring Indigenous fashion, art, and identity. This event brings together designers from across the state to demonstrate how cultural knowledge and modern design intersect through the power of clothing and storytelling. Attendees will experience a series of runway presentations featuring both traditional regalia and contemporary collections. The showcase highlights the role of fashion as a living tradition, offering a platform for local designers to share their personal expressions and creative heritage. The event serves as a medium for celebrating Indigenous visibility and the ongoing evolution of cultural identity within the fashion industry. This event is designed for anyone interested in cultural arts, textile design, or local history. The atmosphere is professional and engaging, making it an excellent opportunity for community members to learn about diverse traditions and support contemporary Indigenous artists. We invite you to join us for an evening of inspiration and craftsmanship. Please check the museum website for specific schedule details and ticket availability to ensure you can participate in this unique cultural experience.