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!

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.

The Kirby Derby 2026 is an annual community event featuring a creative soapbox derby and a whimsical offbeat parade. It brings neighbors together to celebrate ingenuity, humor, and local spirit through lighthearted competition and public spectacle. The festivities highlight the craftsmanship of pinebox cars as participants race down local streets. Kids participate in their own dedicated competition, while adults showcase imaginative builds and elaborate costumes. You can expect a high energy atmosphere where attendees line the streets to cheer on racers and admire the eclectic parade floats. This event is perfect for families, local residents, and anyone looking for a unique and memorable community experience. The event thrives on creativity and participation, so dressing in costume is highly encouraged for all spectators and racers alike. Whether you are interested in the technical side of the soapbox races or simply want to enjoy the colorful parade, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Join us on the streets to experience this tradition firsthand. Bring your friends and family for a day of fun and local entertainment. We look forward to seeing your best costumes.

The NC Courage Tailgate is a community event hosted before home matches to build excitement and celebrate with fellow soccer supporters. This gathering provides a dedicated space for fans to socialize and prepare for the game in a lively outdoor environment. Attendees can participate in a variety of activities including inflatables and interactive games designed for all ages. These experiences offer a fun way to enjoy the pre-match atmosphere with family and friends. We provide a space where supporters can connect before the competitive action begins on the pitch. The event is perfect for families, local fans, and visitors looking to experience the unique culture of our soccer community. You will find a welcoming and energetic environment that serves as the perfect lead-up to kickoff. Tailgates begin three hours before the match and conclude one hour before start time, allowing ample opportunity to walk to the stadium comfortably. We encourage all fans to join us for this pre-match tradition. We look forward to seeing you there as we prepare to cheer on the team together.

The North Carolina Courage will host the Boston Legacy in a competitive NWSL soccer match. This event brings together two professional teams for a high energy display of skill on the pitch. It serves as an official league fixture that showcases top tier talent in the sport. Attendees can expect a full match experience beyond the game itself. The venue will feature a variety of food trucks serving local cuisine and beverage stations. Fans will have access to official team merchandise and interactive games set up throughout the grounds. These amenities are designed to ensure comfort and engagement for all spectators during the event. This match is ideal for sports fans, families, and local supporters seeking an afternoon of professional soccer. The atmosphere remains welcoming and suitable for all ages. We invite you to join us for this exciting matchup between two dedicated teams. Please secure your tickets in advance to ensure entry and plan to arrive early to enjoy the full range of food and activities available on site.