Events Calendar for the Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill area
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Featured Events
The best upcoming events you won’t want to miss
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Chill Act North Carolina
11629 South 700 East Suite 125
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.
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Lakeside Retreats Family Fest
4521 Mial Plantation Rd
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!
Dining & Drinks
Restaurant events, food & drink festivals, tastings, and special dining experiences.
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8th Annual Mud Day Festival
at Walnut Creek Wetland Park, South Raleigh
The 8th Annual Mud Day Festival is an outdoor community event dedicated to celebrating our local wetlands and the joys of nature. This event invites participants of all ages to explore environmental education through hands-on activities and interactive displays hosted by regional conservation groups. By fostering a deeper connection to our natural landscape, we provide a unique space for learning and outdoor play.
Attendees can participate in a variety of engaging experiences including nature education stations and environmental workshops. The main attraction is a massive, controlled mud pit designed for sliding and sensory play. In addition to the mud activities, the event features a curated selection of local food trucks offering diverse dining options throughout the day. Visitors will find plenty of space to relax, eat, and socialize while enjoying the festival atmosphere.
This festival is designed for families, nature enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a unique outdoor experience. The atmosphere is casual, energetic, and highly interactive. We encourage all guests to dress for mess and prepare to get dirty while exploring the grounds. Join us in 2026 for a memorable day of community, education, and outdoor fun.
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Arts & Education Festival
at Knightdale Station Park, Knightdale
The Arts and Education Festival is a community event dedicated to celebrating the intersection of creativity and academic learning. This festival serves as a resource hub designed to support students and families as they prepare for the upcoming school year. It provides a space for community members to connect while accessing valuable educational support.
Attendees can participate in a variety of activities throughout the day. Key features include school supply giveaways to assist students with essential tools and free haircuts to help them feel prepared for class. The event also hosts numerous educational vendors offering information on local programs and resources. Visitors will enjoy a range of food trucks and live music provided by a professional DJ throughout the afternoon.
This festival is open to all community members and is designed for families seeking a productive and engaging day out. The atmosphere is intended to be welcoming and celebratory. We encourage you to join us for this opportunity to strengthen our community ties and support local students. Please mark your calendars and prepare to enjoy a day focused on growth and creativity.
Taco & Margarita Fest 2026
at Sports & Social, Cary
Taco and Margarita Fest 2026 is an immersive culinary experience celebrating premium tequila and diverse street food. Presented by Dulce Vida Tequila and Topo Chico Hard Seltzer, this annual event invites guests to enjoy a curated bar crawl and taco tasting journey throughout the venue. Doors open at 12:00 PM for a full day of festivities.
Attendees can explore five dedicated taco stands and multiple specialty margarita bars using a provided passport. The event features tequila sampling sessions, live entertainment, and various interactive photo opportunities. Participants also receive party favors and have the chance to win prizes through scheduled giveaways throughout the afternoon.
This event is designed for food enthusiasts, tequila lovers, and anyone seeking a high energy social atmosphere. Whether you are visiting for the gourmet taco pairings or the festive community vibe, the festival offers something for every attendee. General admission includes three tacos, a tasting passport, and full access to all entertainment and activities. Do not miss this opportunity to participate in one of the year most anticipated local food and beverage celebrations. Secure your spot now for a memorable day.
Taco & Margarita Fest 2026
at Sports & Social, Cary
Taco and Margarita Fest 2026 is an immersive culinary experience celebrating premium tequila and diverse street food. Presented by Dulce Vida Tequila and Topo Chico Hard Seltzer, this annual event invites guests to enjoy a curated bar crawl and taco tasting journey throughout the venue. Doors open at 12:00 PM for a full day of festivities.
Attendees can explore five dedicated taco stands and multiple specialty margarita bars using a provided passport. The event features tequila sampling sessions, live entertainment, and various interactive photo opportunities. Participants also receive party favors and have the chance to win prizes through scheduled giveaways throughout the afternoon.
This event is designed for food enthusiasts, tequila lovers, and anyone seeking a high energy social atmosphere. Whether you are visiting for the gourmet taco pairings or the festive community vibe, the festival offers something for every attendee. General admission includes three tacos, a tasting passport, and full access to all entertainment and activities. Do not miss this opportunity to participate in one of the year most anticipated local food and beverage celebrations. Secure your spot now for a memorable day.
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Fight Night Live: UFC 330 Makhachev vs. Machado Garry
at Sports & Social, Cary
Sports and Social Cary is hosting a live viewing party for UFC 330 featuring the welterweight title fight between Islam Makhachev and Ian Machado Garry. This event provides fans with a stadium atmosphere to watch the championship bout as it unfolds in real time. The main card features an international clash between two elite fighters competing for the title. Guests can view the entire event on a massive 42-foot screen equipped with high-quality surround sound. This setup ensures that every strike and walkout is experienced with clarity and intensity. The venue is designed to replicate the energy of being ringside without the travel. This experience is tailored for dedicated combat sports fans and casual viewers who want to enjoy the fight in a social setting. The venue offers a comfortable environment with food and drink options available throughout the night. If you are looking for a reliable place to watch major fights with fellow enthusiasts, this event provides the ideal setting. Secure your spot early to ensure the best view for the championship match.
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Fight Night Live: UFC 330 Makhachev vs. Machado Garry
at Sports & Social, Cary
Sports and Social Cary is hosting a live viewing party for UFC 330 featuring the welterweight title fight between Islam Makhachev and Ian Machado Garry. This event provides fans with a stadium atmosphere to watch the championship bout as it unfolds in real time. The main card features an international clash between two elite fighters competing for the title. Guests can view the entire event on a massive 42-foot screen equipped with high-quality surround sound. This setup ensures that every strike and walkout is experienced with clarity and intensity. The venue is designed to replicate the energy of being ringside without the travel. This experience is tailored for dedicated combat sports fans and casual viewers who want to enjoy the fight in a social setting. The venue offers a comfortable environment with food and drink options available throughout the night. If you are looking for a reliable place to watch major fights with fellow enthusiasts, this event provides the ideal setting. Secure your spot early to ensure the best view for the championship match.
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Madonna-Rama at Bitter Social
at Bitter Social - above Centro, Downtown Raleigh
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.
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Necromancy Goth Night: Cybergoth Takeover
at Chapel of Bones, West Raleigh
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.
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Dog Days of Summer Brunch: Raleigh, NC
at Crooked Hammock Brewery, West Raleigh
The Dog Days of Summer Brunch is a family friendly community event in Raleigh held to support the Carolina Boxer Rescue. Guests are invited to enjoy a meal while participating in activities designed for both children and their canine companions.
Attendees can visit the Adopt a Puppy station where children receive adoption certificates and decorate custom dog houses. The event features face painting and photo opportunities with dogs from the rescue organization. Guests are encouraged to bring their own leashed pets to join the festivities. These activities provide an interactive environment for animal lovers to engage with the local rescue community while enjoying brunch.
This event is ideal for local families and pet owners looking for a meaningful way to spend their weekend. The atmosphere is casual, welcoming, and centered on animal welfare. By attending, you contribute directly to a local cause as ten percent of all brunch sales will be donated to the Carolina Boxer Rescue. Join us for a morning of fun and help us support this important organization.
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Piedmont Pear Party at The Plant
at The Plant, Pittsboro,
Join the community at The Plant in Pittsboro on Sunday, August 16, 2026, for the inaugural Piedmont Pear Party. This vibrant gathering celebrates the harvest season with a variety of engaging activities designed for visitors of all ages. From noon until 6 p.m., guests can explore the unique grounds while enjoying an afternoon dedicated to all things pear. The event promises a lively atmosphere filled with local spirit and seasonal fun.
Attendees can look forward to specialized creative sessions, including Gelli printing with pears hosted by Roam Paint Press and fruit-themed watercolor classes at Starrlight Mead. While general admission to the event is completely free, there are plenty of opportunities to purchase delicious food and drinks, as well as participate in various artisanal activities throughout the afternoon. Whether you are looking to refine your artistic skills or simply enjoy a relaxing day in a beautiful setting, this party offers something for everyone. We invite you to bring your friends and family to experience the charm of The Plant. Mark your calendars and come celebrate the bounty of the harvest with us.