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.

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!

Paperhand’s 26th annual giant puppet production featuring masks, huge puppets, stilts, shadows and illuminated creatures all brought to life with live original music by the Paperhand band! A fantastical menagerie of beasts and characters take to the stage (and audience), enchanting, awing and inspiring people of all ages. This year, the theme is in the title. What is the 'Wild Wisdom of the World' indeed?! We are living and making into the questions, knowing that whatever it is, we need to get closer to it. Everything changes. Nothing exists in isolation. All life moves and wants to repair and renew. All flourishing is mutual as Robin Wall Kimmerer reflected so clearly. From stewarding shepherds with their flocks, to great elemental dragons resisting the onslaught of the extractive and destructive 'greyness'. From the movement of a migrating Perula, to the small but mighty beat of a monarchs wing. This show is all about belonging to the living landscape of the Earth. It’s about becoming the courageous creative beings that we need to be to face what is ahead. Join us for some wondrous moments of delight, connection and fun!

Join the Town of Chapel Hill for our consistent food distribution events aimed at supporting our neighbors and fostering a stronger, healthier community. Held on the second and fourth Wednesday of every month at the Eubanks Park and Ride lot, these supplemental distributions provide essential resources to anyone in need. We work in close partnership with the Food Bank of Central and Eastern North Carolina to ensure that fresh and reliable food options remain accessible to all residents throughout the region. We invite you to participate in this impactful initiative, whether you are looking for assistance or eager to give back to your local area. Please remember to bring one or two boxes or bags to help carry your items. If you are passionate about service, we encourage you to sign up to volunteer and assist our dedicated team in coordinating these efforts. For those requiring more immediate or ongoing support, please visit the Food Bank website to utilize their comprehensive agency locator tool. Together, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of our fellow community members by ensuring everyone has access to the nutrition they need to thrive.

Triangle Cinemas invites local families to experience the magic of cinema this summer with their exciting series of free movie screenings. Located at 9500 Forum Drive in Raleigh, North Carolina, the theater is proud to host these special presentations of The Wild Robot, ensuring that entertainment remains accessible for all residents throughout the season. These screenings take place weekly from Tuesday through Thursday, with select Friday showings included from June 16 through August 20, 2026. Doors are scheduled to open at 9:30 a.m. each morning, with the feature films beginning promptly at 10:00 a.m. While attendees are reminded that outside food and beverages are not permitted inside the venue, a variety of delicious concessions will be available for purchase to enhance your viewing experience. This program serves as a wonderful opportunity for children to enjoy big screen adventures in a welcoming community environment. We encourage you to plan your visit early to secure your spot for this engaging cinematic journey. For more details on this event and other affordable summer activities, please visit our website to explore our comprehensive resource list today.

Math Makers invites children and their families to experience the wonder of mathematics through a series of engaging, hands-on sessions at Dorothea Dix Park in Raleigh. Running monthly through November 2026, this program transforms abstract concepts into tangible discoveries by weaving together elements of nature, culture, and creative construction. Expert instructors from Natural Math and the NC Network of Math Teachers Circles guide participants as they build curious creations and develop a deeper appreciation for the logic that surrounds our everyday world. Each session provides an interactive environment where learning feels like play. Participants will even receive a specialized math kit to take home, ensuring the excitement of discovery continues long after the event concludes. This series is completely free to attend, making it a fantastic resource for local families looking to enrich their educational experiences. Please note that while the events are free, registration is required and typically opens two weeks prior to each scheduled date. We encourage you to visit the official website to secure your spot and stay informed about future sessions. Join us to foster a love for lifelong learning in a vibrant community setting.

This workshop provides essential education on recognizing the early signs and symptoms of a stroke. Hosted by medical professionals from WakeMed, the session aims to equip seniors and their caregivers with the knowledge needed to identify potential emergencies and act quickly to save lives. Participants will learn the BE FAST acronym, a simple and effective tool for stroke detection. The presentation covers what to look for when someone shows signs of a stroke, the importance of calling emergency services immediately, and how timely intervention significantly improves health outcomes. Experts will lead the discussion, break down complex medical concepts into simple steps, and answer questions to ensure every attendee feels confident in their ability to respond during a crisis. This event is designed for older adults, caregivers, and community members who want to prioritize their health and safety. The atmosphere will be welcoming, educational, and direct. We encourage you to join us for this vital presentation to gain life saving skills. Space is limited, so please plan to arrive on time to secure your seat and participate in this important health conversation.

Experience the vibrant community atmosphere at the Carrboro Farmers Market, held on the historic Carrboro Town Commons. This bustling hub connects local families with fresh, sustainably sourced goods from farmers and artisans located within a 50-mile radius. Throughout the year, the market transforms into an educational and entertaining space featuring the Market Bunch program, which offers free activities for children every Wednesday focused on agriculture, arts and crafts, and healthy eating. Beyond the weekly offerings, the market hosts a series of engaging seasonal celebrations. From the spring excitement of Kids Seedling Day and the delightful Strawberry Jamboree to the flavorful Tomato Day and the festive Vendor Halloween Costume Contest, there is always something new to discover. These events provide unique opportunities to learn about local food sources while enjoying live music, vendor specials, and interactive community programs. We invite you and your family to join us this season to support local growers and participate in our diverse lineup of community programming. Please visit our website or follow our social media channels for the most current schedule of events and updates.

Experience the bounty of urban agriculture at Raleigh City Farm, a vibrant nonprofit dedicated to sustainable growing and community connection. Located on a beautifully reclaimed lot in Downtown Raleigh, the farm invites you to participate in our weekly Farm Stand every Wednesday from April through October. From 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., browse our seasonal, freshly harvested produce offered through a unique pay what you can model, ensuring everyone in our community has access to healthy, locally grown food. Extend your visit by joining our weekly Wine and Weeds gathering starting at 6 p.m. This hands-on experience allows you to help steward our 1.2-acre site, learn about the principles of regenerative agriculture, and connect with fellow community members. It is a wonderful way to give back to the land while enjoying a refreshing beverage provided by local partners. We encourage you to sign up online in advance to secure your spot for this enriching experience. Come discover the roots of your food, meet our dedicated team, and grow with us this season in the heart of the city.

Experience the ultimate midweek retreat at La Vita Dolce in Southern Village, where Wine Down Wednesday returns for its tenth incredible year. Running every Wednesday from April 1 through October 21, 2026, this beloved Chapel Hill tradition invites you to unwind in style. Guests can enjoy exceptional wine specials and live musical performances in a relaxed atmosphere that captures the spirit of the season. The festivities take place from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., with live music beginning promptly at 6 p.m. to help you transition into the evening with ease. This open social event is designed to be inclusive, welcoming families and even furry companions to join in the fun. It serves as the perfect opportunity to mingle with neighbors, enjoy the beautiful weather, and support local musicians in a vibrant community setting. Whether you are looking for a casual outing or a recurring date night, this event offers the perfect blend of leisure and entertainment. We encourage you to visit us at 610 Market Street to secure your spot and celebrate local culture with us each week.

Join us for an exciting and relaxed Game Night at Boxyard RTP, a unique fifteen thousand square foot destination constructed from innovative upcycled shipping containers. Located in the heart of Durham at 900 Park Offices Drive, our venue provides the perfect backdrop for a midweek social gathering. Whether you are a casual player or a strategic mastermind, our Wednesday sessions offer a fantastic opportunity to unwind and connect with fellow community members in a vibrant atmosphere. Enjoy the convenience of exploring our central pavilion, which features an array of local food and beverage vendors to satisfy your cravings while you play. This event is entirely free to attend, making it the ideal spot for friends and neighbors to gather for some friendly competition after a long day. We invite you to embrace the lively spirit of our cargotecture development and make the most of your evening. For more information regarding our full schedule, upcoming events, or specific details on how to participate, please visit the official Boxyard RTP calendar online at boxyard.org. We look forward to seeing you at our next game night session.

Experience the vibrant energy of community movement every Wednesday at Pullen Park in Raleigh. This recurring Acro Yoga session invites participants of all skill levels to explore the dynamic fusion of yoga and acrobatics in an inclusive outdoor setting. Whether you are a complete beginner or an experienced practitioner, you will find a welcoming environment designed to challenge your body and expand your practice while connecting with local fitness enthusiasts. Sessions take place from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at 520 Ashe Avenue. Please remember to bring a yoga mat or towel and a water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the practice. In the event of colder weather, the community gathers at Method Park to continue the momentum indoors. We encourage everyone to check the official Acro Yoga at Pullen Park Facebook group before heading out for the latest updates on scheduling and potential weather-related changes. Join this wonderful group to enhance your fitness journey and be part of a supportive local wellness community today.

Join the Museum of Durham History for a nostalgic journey as we celebrate the fiftieth anniversary of the historic 1976 Bicentennial Folklife Festival. Originally held at West Point on the Eno, this landmark community gathering showcased the vibrant traditions, music, and crafts of North Carolina. We invite you to an informal reception on Friday, July 17, 2026, from 6 to 8 p.m., where we will commemorate this unique moment in our local heritage. This engaging pop-up exhibit features a curated collection of photographs, personal memories, and archival music that highlights the spirit of the original celebration. You will have the opportunity to hear firsthand stories from those who attended the festival decades ago, offering a rare glimpse into Durham’s past. This event is free and open to the public, providing an excellent way to connect with community history in an intimate and welcoming setting. Whether you are a longtime resident or new to the area, we encourage you to drop by the Museum of Durham History to honor our shared cultural legacy. Please join us for this special evening of reflection, connection, and community celebration.

Experience the vibrant local arts scene at The Plant in Pittsboro. Poetry at The Plant offers a welcoming stage for writers and enthusiasts alike to gather and share the power of the spoken word. Held on the second Wednesday of every month, this recurring event fosters creativity and community engagement within the unique setting of Fair Game Beverage Company. Whether you are an aspiring poet looking for a platform to debut your latest work or an avid fan of literature seeking an evening of artistic expression, this gathering provides an intimate and supportive atmosphere for all participants. Fair Game Beverage Company prides itself on serving high-quality spirits and wines produced from North Carolina ingredients, making it the perfect venue for such a cultural evening. This event is entirely free and open to the public, encouraging everyone in the Chatham County area to attend and participate. Join us for a memorable hour of literary discovery and community spirit. Mark your calendars for our upcoming sessions through November 2026 and become part of this flourishing local tradition today.

Experience an evening of cinematic nostalgia at the Sweetwater Town Center in Apex, North Carolina, on Wednesday, August 12, 2026. From 6 to 8 p.m., we invite you and your family to enjoy an outdoor screening of the beloved classic, Back to the Future. This community event is entirely free, making it the perfect midweek escape for film enthusiasts and families alike. To ensure maximum comfort throughout the film, please remember to bring your own lawn chairs or blankets. You are also encouraged to explore the diverse culinary offerings available right at the Town Center. Whether you are looking for a full dinner or simply some delicious treats to snack on while watching Marty McFly travel through time, the local businesses have plenty of excellent options to satisfy your cravings. We look forward to seeing the community come together for this exciting night under the stars. Join us for a fun and relaxed atmosphere that celebrates local entertainment. Make sure to arrive early to secure your spot and support our fantastic local vendors. We cannot wait to see you there for this unforgettable neighborhood movie experience.

Experience the unique intersection of urban agriculture and community connection at Raleigh City Farm during our weekly Wine plus Weeds gatherings. Located on a vibrant one acre site in downtown Raleigh, this event invites farm friends to steward our land while learning about regenerative agriculture and sustainable plant care. Whether you are a seasoned gardener or a curious beginner, this is a wonderful opportunity to deepen your knowledge of local farming practices while making meaningful new connections within the community. Each session takes place every Wednesday from April through October. We provide a welcoming space where you can get your hands dirty, help maintain our beautiful site, and enjoy a complimentary splash of wine or a non-alcoholic beverage provided by Wine Authorities. This is a recurring invitation to relax, learn, and contribute to the growth of the next generation of farmers. Capacity is limited for these popular sessions, so please visit our website to sign up ahead of time and reserve your spot. We look forward to seeing you at the farm this season.

The Sound of Music Sing-Along is a special interactive screening of the classic Rodgers and Hammerstein film. This event invites audiences to participate by singing along to iconic musical numbers throughout the motion picture. It transforms a standard movie experience into a communal musical celebration. Attendees can expect to view the complete feature film while singing along to favorites like Do-Re-Mi, My Favorite Things, and Edelweiss. Lyrics are provided for those who wish to follow the music closely. The experience features the original performance by Julie Andrews while relying on the audience to provide the vocal harmonies. This event is designed for fans of classic cinema and musical theater. The atmosphere is casual, inclusive, and focused on collective enjoyment rather than technical vocal skill. Whether you are a lifelong fan or a first-time viewer, the environment encourages participation regardless of musical background. No specific talent is required to enjoy the afternoon. We strongly encourage enthusiasm and a willingness to join in the fun. Gather your friends and family for this unique opportunity to revisit a beloved classic in a lively, group setting.

This orientation class provides a comprehensive introduction to the fundamental operation of the CNC router. Participants will learn how to safely use this powerful tool to cut and carve intricate designs for various creative projects. The session is designed to give you the practical skills needed to operate the machine independently. Throughout the workshop, you will learn the entire workflow from start to finish. We will cover powering on the equipment, preparing your material, and creating designs using Easel software. You will also learn how to program toolpaths to execute your cuts accurately. As a hands-on highlight, every participant will create a personalized wooden coaster featuring their own initials to gain direct experience with the machine. This course is perfect for makers, hobbyists, and artists eager to add CNC fabrication to their skill set. The environment is supportive and focused on technical proficiency. Whether you want to build custom signs or intricate art pieces, this session provides the essential foundation for your future projects. Space is limited, so register today to secure your spot and start bringing your digital designs into the physical world.

Experience the vibrant energy of downtown Raleigh with the return of the Live After 5 concert series. This highly anticipated summer event brings community members together for evenings of live music, delicious local food trucks, and a festive atmosphere. Originally part of a rotating series held across iconic city locations, this special rescheduled performance at Seaboard Station promises to be a highlight of the season. Whether you are a long-time resident or a new visitor, this family-friendly event offers the perfect opportunity to enjoy high-quality entertainment in an open-air setting. Join us on August 12 for an unforgettable night featuring Elora Dash. Gather your friends and family, grab some local eats, and soak in the sounds of the Triangle music scene. We invite you to be part of this celebration that highlights the spirit and culture of our city. Make sure to arrive early to secure your spot and enjoy the full experience. We look forward to seeing you at Seaboard Station for an evening filled with great music and community connection.

RipTide Car Wash is excited to announce the return of their highly anticipated teacher appreciation promotion for the second consecutive year. Throughout the entire month of August 2026, all teachers and dedicated school staff members are invited to visit any RipTide Car Wash location to receive a professional car wash completely free of charge. This gesture serves as a token of gratitude for the hard work and commitment educators provide to our students and community every single day. To take advantage of this special offer, simply present your valid school identification at any of the participating RipTide Car Wash facilities. With multiple convenient locations available across Durham and Raleigh, refreshing your vehicle has never been easier or more accessible. Whether you are prepping for the new academic semester or simply want to keep your car looking its best, we invite you to stop by and experience our premium service at no cost to you. We encourage all eligible school personnel to visit our website to view a full list of participating locations. Take a moment to treat yourself this August and enjoy a spotless vehicle on us.

The Big Summer GlowOut is a community celebration marking the end of the season through an evening of illuminated activities and entertainment. This event serves as a final summer gathering for families and friends to enjoy outdoor festivities in a vibrant, glowing atmosphere. Attendees can participate in a variety of interactive experiences throughout the evening. The program features live music sets from a professional DJ, a designated foam and bubble zone, and a water play station. In addition to these active areas, guests will find a self-service craft, self-guided games, and a sweet treat available for purchase. These diverse activities ensure there is something for everyone to enjoy. This event is designed for families and individuals looking for an engaging way to conclude their summer break. The atmosphere is energetic, welcoming, and optimized for evening outdoor play. We encourage you to bring your enthusiasm and prepare for a night of active fun under the lights. Mark your calendars for this unique celebration and join us as we close out the season in style.

Experience an evening of high-caliber musicianship as multi-instrumentalists The Philharmonik and Wyatt Waddell take the stage for a unique collaborative performance. This concert showcases two distinct artists known for their versatility, production expertise, and ability to blend genres into a cohesive musical journey for live audiences. The Philharmonik opens with a sound defined by deep musical intelligence and a refreshing sense of optimism. As a producer and engineer, he brings a technical precision to his live performance that is both grounded and uplifting. Joining him is Chicago based artist Wyatt Waddell, celebrated for his expansive vocal range and energetic stage presence. Waddell draws inspiration from legendary soul and pop icons, creating a dynamic set that balances raw grit with melodic clarity. Together, these performers offer a night of genuine artistry and technical skill. This event is ideal for music lovers who appreciate live instrumentation and authentic songwriting. The atmosphere will be intimate yet lively, providing a perfect setting to discover innovative sounds from emerging artists. We invite you to join us for this showcase of creativity and talent. Tickets are available now for those seeking a memorable night of live music.

The Sock It To My Pocket Tour brings critically acclaimed Brooklyn rapper Rome Streetz to the stage for a live showcase of his latest work. This event serves as a platform for fans to experience his sharp lyricism and gritty storytelling firsthand as he promotes his upcoming album. Supporting acts Fergie Baby and $ha Hef will join the lineup to round out the performance. Attendees can expect a high energy show focused on authentic underground hip hop. The setlist will feature tracks from Rome Streetz recent projects along with previews of new material from his forthcoming release. His performance style is known for precise delivery and dense wordplay that resonates with dedicated followers of the genre. This tour is intended for hip hop enthusiasts who appreciate technical skill and street narratives. The atmosphere will be intimate and focused entirely on the craft of rap music. Secure your tickets now to witness one of the most respected voices in modern underground hip hop live in your city. Experience the uncompromising sound that has defined his career and join the movement as he tours across the country.

The Davie in downtown Raleigh hosts its weekly Sinkin and Drinkin Beer Pong Tournament on Wednesday, August 12. This event invites participants to compete in a structured tournament setting for a grand prize of 200 dollars. It offers a structured way to experience a local bar atmosphere during the week. Sign ups for the tournament begin promptly at 8:30pm, with official gameplay starting at 9pm. Entry is free for all attendees, and the event welcomes both competitive players and casual spectators. The environment focuses on quick rounds and focused gameplay, providing a straightforward experience for everyone involved in the matches. This event is designed for anyone looking for a social evening in the Blount Street neighborhood. The atmosphere is casual, lively, and representative of the local Raleigh bar scene. Whether you are a beer pong enthusiast aiming for the cash prize or someone seeking an entertaining place to spend your Wednesday night, this tournament offers a clear activity. Arrive early to register your team and secure your spot in the bracket before the competition begins.