When the leaves turn crisp and the evenings grow long, Fuquay-Varina comes alive with more than just pumpkin spice and fall festivals. Beneath our small-town charm lies a haunted history, one that locals and visitors alike can experience through spine-tingling stories, eerie legends, and ghostly encounters that have been passed down for generations.
Local authors Liz Pardue and Kelly Prestipino captured this history in their book Fuquay-Varina Ghosts: Legends and Lore. Inside, you’ll find chilling tales of Fuquay’s past, from mysterious figures lingering by the mineral spring to tragic histories of townsfolk whose stories never truly ended. It’s a deep dive into why Fuquay-Varina has earned the reputation of being one of the “Most Haunted Small Towns in the South.”
PURCHASE BOOK HERE!
You can also visit one of the many local shops that carry the book such as
KnB’s Marketplace and more!
Of course, the best way to experience our haunted past is in person! Each October, the Fuquay-Varina Ghost Tour takes brave souls through the dimly lit streets of Downtown Fuquay. This year’s tours run on October 3–5, 10–12, and 24–26, departing from Fainting Goat Brewing Co. (330 S Main Street).
Led by passionate storytellers (and the lively Spook-quay Players), the one-hour walking tours wind less than a mile through downtown, bringing history to life with a mix of mystery, lore, and bone-chilling accounts of Fuquay’s past.
💀 New stories and fresh frights for 2025 mean even if you’ve gone before, you’ll want to return for more!
Rain or shine event (no refunds/exchanges).
10% of profits benefit the Fuquay-Varina Downtown Association.
⚠️ Content Warning: These are true stories, and some are graphic or tragic in nature (suicide, racial violence, human trafficking, assassinations). Parents, please accompany children under 16 – discretion is advised.
The tours begin at Fainting Goat Brewing Co., so you can sip on a local craft brew before or after your haunted stroll. It’s the perfect pairing of community spirit and ghostly fun…because nothing says Fuquay-Varina quite like neighbors gathering together, even in the presence of a few lingering spirits.
Whether you’re a believer, a skeptic, or just here for the stories, the Fuquay-Varina Ghost Tour is a fall tradition you won’t want to miss. Step into our haunted history, walk the same streets as our restless spirits, and discover why Fuquay-Varina is more than just a charming small town—it’s a town where the past still whispers through the night.
👉 Grab your tickets early and come see what makes Fuquay-Varina hauntingly unforgettable. TICKETS HERE!
If ghost tours through downtown aren’t enough to get your heart racing, Fuquay-Varina Parks & Rec has you covered with their annual Haunted Trail, a frightful adventure tucked away in the woods of Carroll Howard Johnson Environmental Education Park.
This year’s Haunted Trail takes place on Saturday, October 18, with two unique ways to experience the scares:
GET YOUR TICKETS HERE
5:00 – 6:00 pm
A lighthearted, sun-lit stroll perfect for little ones and families. Kids are encouraged to wear their costumes and interact with friendly characters along the way, making it more fun than frightening.
7:00 – 9:00 pm
Once the sun sets, the trail transforms into a dark, terrifying walk through the woods, filled with unexpected scares at every turn. This version is not recommended for children under 10, and kids ages 10-12 should be accompanied by an adult.
Though the event is hosted at Carroll Howard Park, parking is available at the Fuquay-Varina Community Center. A shuttle will transport attendees to the event, or if you’re feeling adventurous, you can walk the Jeff Wells Trail to reach Carroll Howard Park. (Flashlights highly recommended for those choosing the walk-in option!)
From eerie legends on downtown’s ghostly streets to bone-chilling surprises in the woods, Fuquay-Varina knows how to celebrate spooky season in style. Whether you’re paging through Fuquay-Varina Ghosts: Legends and Lore, braving the annual Ghost Tour, or daring to enter the Haunted Trail, you’ll find that our town’s haunted history and community spirit go hand in hand. So grab your flashlight, your bravest friends, and maybe even a costume, because October in Fuquay is more than just pumpkins and candy. It’s about experiencing the stories, scares, and small-town magic that make our community hauntingly unforgettable.
August is National Dog Month…a whole 31 days dedicated to celebrating our furry family members, and honestly, we think they deserve it. From greeting us with tail wags after a long day to keeping us company during quiet moments on the porch, our pups make our houses feel more like home. This year, we’re shining a spotlight on a special new place in Fuquay-Varina that has quickly become a favorite for both people and pups – Gracy & Co.
Gracy & Co. isn’t your average pet shop, it’s a community collaborative space created by local business owners with a mission close to the heart:
to feed those in need, support local animal rescue efforts, and showcase their talents through unique products.
When you step through their doors, you’ll find:
Unique gifts for humans and pets alike
Specialty baked goods & nostalgic candy 🍭
A cozy gathering space with books to enjoy while you linger
And…every dog’s dream: The Barkery 🦴
Tucked in the back, the Barkery is stocked with locally made Pawsitively Delicious Treats, plenty of toys, and even café tables so you and your pup can relax together. Pets are not only welcome, they’re encouraged.
Pawsitively Delicious Treats is a woman- and veteran-owned small business right here in Fuquay-Varina, crafting all-natural, handmade dog treats using fresh, real ingredients like pumpkin purée, whole‑wheat flour, peanut butter, and more for healthy, tail-wagging goodness.
But it doesn’t stop at the kitchen! Pawsitively Delicious also brings the fun!
They carry a wide range of toys for both dogs and cats, from chew toys and squeakers that keep pups busy for hours to interactive cat wands, play balls, and even “fish bowls” that challenge your furry friends in the most entertaining ways. It’s the perfect one-stop shop for healthy treats and happy play.
Beyond their tasty treats, they’re deeply community-minded. Every purchase supports local entrepreneurs and, by extension, our local economy. Plus, they have an active news and events section on their website, sharing heartwarming rescue stories like “Soleia’s Journey: From Survivor to Snuggle Princess” and adoption spotlights like Sweetie, Strong, Spirited, and Searching for Her Forever.
At Front Porch Realty, our roots are all about home, community, and belonging. That’s why we adore local gems like Gracy & Co., where every customer strolls in and stays awhile, and businesses like Pawsitively Delicious Treats, where every treat bought makes both pup wags and local rescues happier.
Visit Gracy & Co. in August: Treat yourself and your pup with goodies from the Barkery, enjoy their cozy gathering area, and support local creators doing meaningful work.
Support Pawsitively Delicious Treats: Pick up a bag of their all-natural baked goodies knowing your purchase helps local entrepreneurs thrive (plus pups get spoiled).
Share Your Pooch’s Portrait: Show us your pup enjoying National Dog Month using #FrontPorchPups, and we’ll share our favorites throughout August.
As the leaves turn and cooler days roll in, Fuquay-Varina is buzzing with cozy charm, community fun, and exciting opportunities…especially if you’re thinking about buying or selling a home! Whether you’re relocating, looking for more space, or want to put down roots in a town full of heart and happenings, Fuquay-Varina continues to shine as one of the Triangle’s top places to live.
Let’s take a look at what’s happening in the Fuquay real estate market and why fall and winter might just be the perfect time to make your move.
Contrary to the myth that spring is the only hot season in real estate, fall and early winter bring serious buyers, less competition, and homes that are staged with all the cozy vibes. In Fuquay-Varina, we’re seeing:
✅ Strong buyer interest thanks to continued growth in the Triangle
✅ Well-maintained inventory with homes ranging from charming downtown cottages to newer builds with all the upgrades
✅ Great value per square foot compared to Raleigh and surrounding areas
✅ A welcoming, tight-knit community that offers both suburban peace and a bustling small-town vibe
If you’re selling, you’ll stand out in a less saturated market. If you’re buying, you’ll love what your money can get in Fuquay. Let’s talk about your goals!
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919.577.0175 | fprealtync@gmail.com
There’s no shortage of ways to fall in love with Fuquay-Varina this season; from live music to family festivals, holiday magic, and everything in between.
Here’s what’s coming up:
📍 Centennial Square, 102 N Main Street | ⏰ 6:30–9:30 PM
This free, family-friendly concert series brings live music, local brews, food trucks, and a whole lot of dancing under the stars.
Sept. 4 – Band of Oz
Sept. 11 – Liquid Pleasure
Sept. 18 – Jim Quick & the Coastline
Oct. 16 – North Tower
Bring your chairs, but please leave pets and coolers at home!
🗓️ Sept. 5, Oct. 3, Nov. 7, Dec. 5 | 5–9 PM
Explore Downtown Fuquay-Varina with live music, art, shopping deals, delicious eats, and a great community vibe. Make it a monthly tradition!
📍 500 Broad Street | Oct. 2
Grab dinner at a local restaurant and enjoy a night of live music! Beer vendors on site. BYO chair (but leave pets and coolers at home).
📍 Downtown Fuquay | Oct. 4, 10:00 AM–4:00 PM
This signature town event is packed with live music, food trucks, craft beer, handmade goods, kids’ activities, and more.
👉 More festival info here
📍 Carroll Howard Johnson Park | Oct. 18
Family Trail (5–6 PM): Costumed fun and friendly frights
Full Fright Trail (7–9 PM): NOT for the faint of heart!
Shuttle & parking from Fuquay Community Center — flashlights recommended!🔦
📍 Oct. 18–26
Dine downtown and scan your receipt QR code for a chance to win Downtown Dollars!
Try the exclusive Fuquay Famous Brew at Mason Jar Lager Co. and participating breweries. Good food, great service AND prizes? Yes please.
📍 Oct. 24 | 2–5 PM
Bring the kiddos to Downtown Fuquay & Varina for candy, costumes, and community fun with nearly 100 participating businesses.
📍 Fire Station 1 | Oct. 25 | 10 AM–2 PM
Tour the station, meet firefighters, check out equipment, and enjoy face painting, inflatables, and safety demos.
📍 Varina Parking Lot, 801 Durham St | Nov. 8, 12–4 PM
One of FVDA’s biggest fall fundraisers! Expect:
BBQ tastings from local pitmasters
Craft beer
Live music
Maker’s Market
No pets allowed. Rain or shine!
📍 Nov. 29
Support the shops and restaurants that make Fuquay Fuquay! Every dollar spent stays local and supports our community.
Tree Lighting Ceremony – Dec. 4 at 6 PM on Vance Street
Christmas Parade – Dec. 7 at 4 PM in Downtown Fuquay
Lights at Mineral Spring Park – Starting early December
Letters to Santa – Dec. 5–17 at Mineral Spring Park
Gingerbread House Contest – View entries at the Arts Center Gallery
Holiday Shows – Check the Arts Center Theater for ticketed performances
Fire & Police Toy/Food Drives – Help give back to neighbors in need
Shop with a Cop – Support local children with clothing and gifts
If a charming downtown, lively events, and welcoming neighbors sound like your kind of place, Fuquay-Varina is calling your name. From family-friendly neighborhoods to move-in-ready homes near all the action, you can find a lifestyle here that’s full of comfort, connection, and community pride.
Let’s grab a coffee and talk about your next move before these listings (and these festival tickets) are gone!
Follow me to Fuquay — where real estate dreams meet small-town magic.
📩 919.577.0175 | fprealtync@gmail.com | 604 N. Main St., Fuquay-Varina
School might be out for the summer, but our community is already working hard to make sure every student starts the year prepared and confident!
Join the FV Growers Market this Saturday, July 19, in the Chamber parking lot for the annual Stuff a Truck Event, hosted in partnership with the Fuquay-Varina Police Department. The goal? To stuff one of the FVPD’s police trucks FULL of essential school supplies for students in need right here in our community.
Bring any of the following items to donate:
🎒 Backpacks
✏️ Pens & Pencils
🖍️ Markers & Highlighters
🎨 Crayons
📓 Notebooks
🗒️ Loose Leaf Paper
✂️ Scissors
🧼 Glue Sticks
Whether you’re dropping by to shop your favorite local produce or just want to lend a helping hand, your donation, big or small, makes a difference.
Every child deserves to walk into the classroom feeling prepared. Your generosity helps ensure students in Fuquay-Varina have the tools they need to learn, grow, and thrive. It’s a small gesture that makes a big impact. So stop by, say hello to our amazing local officers and market vendors, and help them make this year’s Stuff a Truck the best one yet!
📍 Location: FV Growers Market
🗓️ Date: Saturday, July 19
🕘 Time: During normal market hours
💼 Hosted By: Fuquay-Varina Police Department & FV Growers Market
Thank you for continuing to show up for one another, Fuquay-Varina. Let’s stuff that truck!
Looking for a fun, family-friendly way to kick off your Fourth of July week? Mark your calendars for Monday, July 1st and head over to South Park in Fuquay-Varina for one of the most exciting summer events of the year—the town’s annual Independence Day Celebration!
This local tradition is packed with live music, food trucks, fireworks, and good old-fashioned community fun. Whether you’re new to the area or a lifelong local, this is one summer celebration you won’t want to miss!
Here’s a quick look at what’s happening:
🕕 6:00 PM – Gates Open
Arrive early to snag the perfect picnic spot and explore everything the event has to offer.
🌊 6:00 – 8:30 PM – Splash Pad Fun
Kids (and kids at heart) can cool off at the Splash Pad before the fireworks begin!
🎤 6:30 PM – Live Music with Heads Up Penny
Kick back with great local tunes while you enjoy dinner from one of 20+ food trucks on site!
🎆 9:15 PM – Fireworks Show (weather permitting)
Get ready for a spectacular fireworks display lighting up the Fuquay-Varina sky. Bring your blanket or lawn chairs and settle in for the grand finale!
Whether you’re craving BBQ, tacos, ice cream, or something totally new, you’re in luck. Here’s a sneak peek at some of the delicious eats rolling in:
📍 Main parking: 308 Jones Rd – check out the access map before you go.
♿ Accessible parking: Available at the Community Center via Judd Pkwy (placard required).
❌ Leave these at home: No alcohol, no pets, no bikes or skateboards.
✔️ Coolers are welcome! Pack some snacks or drinks and stay hydrated.
🛑 Note: The South Park Community Center, Splash Pad (outside event hours), and Jeff Wells Trail will all be closed earlier in the day on July 1st.
This is one of those summer nights that brings the whole town together. So grab your favorite people, pack your picnic blanket, and come join the celebration. We’ll be soaking in small-town charm, fireworks under the stars, and the kind of joy that makes Fuquay-Varina feel like home.
Front Porch Realty is An Equal Opportunity Company, Equal Housing Opportunity.
Information Not Guaranteed. Listings marked with an icon are provided courtesy of the Triangle MLS, Inc. of North Carolina, Internet Data Exchange Database.
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