Gifts She’ll Swoon Over
1. The gift of head-to-toe style — shoes, jewels, and accessories included — comes easily at LILYMAES boutique.
2. Offer a relaxing break from hectic holiday hosting with a watercolor travel tin and workbook featuring beautiful outlined designs from Swagger Boutique.
3. With a freshly brewed cuppa and a beautifully pristine... Read More
Nothing conjures the holiday spirit quite like Stormtroopers popping out of a Christmas present and Yoda shooting out of a snow cannon — at least according to Kevin Walls. Kevin is the mastermind behind the annual transformation of his family’s home in Apex into the Apex Star Wars House, a beloved stop on the Town... Read More
In a community growing as quickly as Southern Wake, there’s a lot to keep up with. Through six magazines each year, bimonthly email newsletters, and ongoing social media, we try to report on what’s new and noteworthy, and always welcome your suggestions. Here’s a look back at our top stories of 2026. Most-read stories of... Read More
Before the last decade’s explosive growth in Wake County, Fuquay-Varina was considered “way out there” — a rural community that was no small distance from downtown Raleigh. County-based services such as energy, nutrition, and employment assistance required a trip to the Health & Human Services buildings in Raleigh, a journey made more complicated for anyone... Read More
Fudgy brownies meet a healthy dose of bourbon, pockets of dark chocolate, and a sprinkling of sea salt on a perfectly crispy crust. This no-fuss recipe takes just one bowl and 10 minutes from start to oven.
4 ounces Videri 70% Classic Dark Chocolate, roughly chopped ½ cup unsalted butter 1 cup granulated sugar 2... Read More
Most weekdays beginning at 7 a.m., a custom-built coffee trailer sits parked at Baucom Business Plaza in Fuquay-Varina, pulling in a steady stream of regulars before the workday even gets going. The trailer’s tagline is painted right on the outside: “Be lifted. Stay grounded.” For owner Emma Barr, that’s not just a catchy line —... Read More
BBQ, Blues & Brews Nov. 7 Noon to 4 P.M. Downtown Varina, 801 Durham St.
Don’t miss Fuquay’s smokin’ hot celebration of flavor, where experienced cook teams vie for the best barbecue in town. Enjoy local beer, live music performances, a makers market, and tasting samples.
Holly Springs Autism Acceptance Day Nov.... Read More
Halloween is right around the corner. Time to enjoy the chill in the air, show off those costumes, and enjoy some frights and delights with the whole family. Track or Treat Halloween Express October 14, 17, 23, 24 (check website for times) New Hope Valley Railway, New Hill
Climb aboard for a festive ride... Read More
There was a time when a farmstand meant one of three things: tomatoes, pumpkins, or boiled peanuts (depending on the season). You pulled over, handed someone $10–$20 in cash, and drove home and made a salad or whatever.
Those days are over, friends. Mostly because you can’t buy squat for $10–$20, but also because the... Read More
Steve Ashworth started working at his namesake menswear retailer, Ashworth’s Clothing, on Fuquay-Varina’s Main Street at 9 years old. As a third-generation owner, following the footsteps of his father and grandfather, Steve says, “When you love it, it’s not work.”
“I love people and I wanted to be involved in what was going on in... Read More
“Edenton’s waking up,” says Inner Banks Inn proprietor Susan Martin Cyr about the scenic town tucked into the Albermarle Sound and surrounded by water on three sides in the state’s northeastern region. While it has long been considered a historical gem, Edenton has also been what Susan “would call a sleeper.” But now, she says,... Read More
Vibrant towns, mountain landscapes, cascading waterfalls, and outdoor exploration — you can find it all in the North Carolina High Country. Destinations such as Asheville, Boone, and Blowing Rock often headline a visit to the Blue Ridge Mountains, but there’s a quieter alternative overflowing with small-town charm that deserves a place in the spotlight.
The... Read More
