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!

Summer Showcase 2026 is an informal performance event where dance students demonstrate their progress and skills in a low pressure environment. This event provides a dedicated space for students to gain stage experience while sharing their recent accomplishments with friends and family members. Attendees will watch a variety of dance routines featuring creative choreography, engaging music, and fun stage props. Each performance is designed to celebrate the effort students have put into their training throughout the summer season. The program focuses on building confidence and stage presence in a supportive setting. This showcase is perfectly suited for parents, family, and supporters who want to celebrate the growth of our dancers. The atmosphere is relaxed, joyful, and centered entirely on the student experience rather than formal competition. We invite everyone to join us for an afternoon of creativity and community spirit. Please plan to arrive early to find seating and settle in before the performances begin. We look forward to seeing you there to cheer on our talented group of students as they take the stage.

Mane Attraction Burlesque presents a joint birthday showcase featuring co-producers Summer Flings and ALVARA. This live stage production highlights a curated selection of local burlesque talent in an intimate and professional performance setting. The event showcases a diverse lineup of performers including Shimmy Diosa, Babylon Mystere, Garnet Starlet, Iridessa, Ephemera, Iris Wilde, and Roxanne DiVine. Attendees can expect a series of choreographed acts that display artistic movement, costume design, and theatrical storytelling. The show focuses on technical skill and stage presence to provide a high-quality viewing experience for all audience members. This production is designed for fans of live performance art and those looking to celebrate the birthday of the two producers. The atmosphere is intended to be energetic and engaging, providing a welcoming environment for both newcomers to burlesque and longtime enthusiasts. If you are interested in supporting local artists and experiencing a dynamic evening of professional burlesque, this event is well suited for you. Please secure your attendance early to ensure availability and enjoy this featured performance event.

Madonna-Rama is a themed birthday dance party dedicated to the music and legacy of Madonna. Hosted at Bitter Social, this event invites fans to celebrate the Queen of Pop with an evening featuring her entire discography from early hits to modern classics. It is an opportunity for fans to come together and appreciate her influence on music and pop culture. Attendees can expect a dedicated dance floor experience curated by Gay Agenda. The evening includes a costume contest where participants are encouraged to dress as their favorite Madonna era for a chance to win prizes. Winners will be announced at 9:30 pm. Food service remains available until 9:30 pm for those looking to dine while enjoying the music. Guests should locate the Centro QR code at the bar upon arrival to access event information. This event is designed for Madonna enthusiasts looking for an energetic social environment. Whether you are a lifelong fan or a casual listener, you are invited to strike a pose and enjoy a night of iconic music. Join us at Bitter Social for this high energy tribute.

Necromancy Goth Night returns for a dedicated cybergoth takeover event. This evening focuses on industrial electronic music and the high energy aesthetic of the cyber subculture. Attendees are invited to enjoy a night of themed music and community gathering. The event features back to back DJ sets from Dr Martin and Mike Dropz who will provide the soundtrack for the evening. Highlights include a best dressed contest where guests are encouraged to wear their most elaborate cyber outfits. There will also be a dance off for those looking to showcase their movement and engage with the music. The atmosphere is designed to be interactive and inclusive for fans of the genre. This event is perfect for anyone interested in the goth and cybergoth music scene. If you enjoy industrial sounds and creative fashion, this is an excellent opportunity to connect with like minded individuals in an immersive environment. Prepare your best gear and join us for a night of music and movement. We look forward to seeing everyone on the dance floor for this unique edition of Necromancy.

The Summer Of Pride Rave is a high energy electronic music festival celebrating LGBTQ plus culture and unity. This event serves as a vibrant platform for community expression through music and dance during the peak of the pride season. Attendees can look forward to a curated lineup of local and international house and techno DJs performing on a state of the art sound system. The production features immersive light shows and dynamic visual installations designed to transform the dance floor into a unique sensory experience. Food and beverage stations will be available on site throughout the duration of the event to ensure convenience for all guests. This rave is designed for music lovers and members of the pride community who enjoy dance culture and collective celebrations. The atmosphere is inclusive and welcoming to all individuals seeking a positive and high energy environment. We invite you to join us for a night of rhythm and connection. Please secure your tickets in advance online to guarantee entry as this is expected to be a sold out gathering.