In 2003, the town of Fuquay-Varina looked quite different — home to only about 10,000 residents, many of the beloved events and amenities enjoyed today, including Follow Me to Fuquay-Varina concerts, the Arts Center, and the signature slogan — A Dash More — did not yet exist. But some might say a turning point was... Read More
When Fuquay-Varina native Ashley Manstedt started collecting donations for The Hope Closet, her garage filled within 48 hours.
“We operated for about three months, and my kids couldn’t even reach their shoes in the garage,” Ashley says.
Clean mattresses, linens, furniture, clothing, and toys poured in from the local community to support Ashley’s mission.
“It... Read More
Water. Fertilize. Mow. Weed.
It’s a cycle common to many trying to keep their lawn lush with green grass. A cycle that can sometimes feel like a battle.
Corinne Beirne thinks there’s a better way to love your landscaping. Better not just for our homes, but for our health as well.
“If we could turn... Read More
“You have to check out the bathroom.”
That may not be a typical way that small-business owners greet their clients, but in this case it’s warranted.
The bathroom at Track Record Vinyl Shop and Listening Lounge is bold and fun with dark tile walls, bright neon signs, themed artwork, and a glittering disco ball. The... Read More
Store-bought pizza dough may also be used.
For dough: 5 cups all-purpose flour, divided 1 ½ teaspoons instant or active dry yeast 1 ½ teaspoons sea salt 2 ¼ cups very cold water 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil 2 tablespoons dark molasses
Toppings: olive oil 16 ounces fresh mozzarella, sliced or pearls 8 ounces crumbled... Read More
Tucked just off Highway 55 on New Hill Road, a mile and a half puts you at the door of Oakview Public House in Holly Springs. And once you’re inside, it’s clear the short drive is the point, not the obstacle.
Tall ceilings, generous windows, and light wood floors give the space an airy, elevated... Read More
Holly Quest Scavenger Hunt Throughout September Various locations around Holly Springs
Search high and low in Holly Springs for clues to win prizes in the 150th anniversary townwide scavenger hunt. From historic locations to municipal facilities, explore past and present Holly Springs and celebrate the milestone anniversary along the way.
International... Read More
First Friday in Downtown Fuquay July 3, Aug. 7 & Sept. 4, 5–9 P.M. Fuquay-Varina downtown districts
Live music, local shopping, and vibrant community activities entice residents to a fun-filled evening on the first Friday of every month, organized by the Fuquay-Varina Downtown Association. Discover special deals, enjoy delicious food, and experience a lively arts... Read More
Heads up, fair reader — I’m making this the final installment of the series because I tried something a little different, and I’m not completely convinced it paid off. If it did, let me know. All of these HOA shenanigans are based on true stories that occurred between 2007 and 2026, and I have enough... Read More
Background: I’ve been doing art since I was a kid. My electives in high school were always art and music. I never learned to sew a button or boil an egg because I was busy taking art. … Once my kids were grown, I jumped into art full time and got on Instagram and started... 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
