Tag Archives: DTFV

Paws on the Porch: Celebrating National Dog Month with Gracy & Co. 🐾

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.

Meet 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: Made with Love & Purpose

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. 

Why We’re All About It

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.

How You Can Celebrate National Dog Month Locally-
winston recommendations –

  • 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.

Run the Quay 2025: Fuquay-Varina’s Favorite Race Returns June 7!

Lace up your sneakers and mark your calendars—Fuquay-Varina’s most anticipated community event, Run the Quay, is back on Saturday, June 7, 2025! Now in its 21st year, this beloved race brings together runners, families, and local businesses for a day of fitness, fun, and community spirit.

🏁 Race Day Rundown

Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just looking for a good time, there’s a race for everyone:

  • CHECK IN FOR THOSE NOT PRE-REGISTERED: 6AM – 8:15AM
  • 10K Race: Starts at 7:00 AM

  • 5K Race: Starts at 8:30 AM

  • 15-Quay Challenge: For those seeking an extra challenge, run both the 10K and 5K back-to-back!

  • WakeMed Children’s Twinkle Dash: A special 50- or 100-yard dash for kids 10 and under, starting at 8:30 AM. Registration is $10, with all proceeds benefiting WakeMed Children’s.

All races take place along the beautiful, tree-lined streets of Historic Downtown Fuquay-Varina, offering a scenic backdrop for participants and spectators alike.

🎉 More Than Just a Race

Run the Quay is more than a race—it’s a community celebration! After crossing the finish line, stick around for the post-race Family Fun Day festivities at Mason Jar Lager Company. Enjoy food trucks, bounce houses, a special beer release, and more family-friendly activities.

Local businesses and community groups will also be set up before, during, and after the race, creating a vibrant atmosphere for runners to enjoy.

💖 Supporting Our Community

Run the Quay is the largest annual fundraiser for the Fuquay-Varina Chamber of Commerce. Proceeds support the Chamber’s mission to build and sustain a vibrant economy through public/private partnerships. Additionally, a portion of the proceeds will benefit the Growers Market of Fuquay-Varina, this year’s selected charity partner.

📝 Registration Details

Registration is open until Friday, June 6, at 6:45 PM. Please note, there will be no race day registration available.

  • 5K Race: $45

  • 10K Race: $55

  • 15-Quay Challenge: $65

  • WakeMed Children’s Twinkle Dash: $10

All participants will receive a race shirt and finisher medal, provided registration is completed before the cutoff date.

📦 Packet Pickup

  • Friday, June 6: 3:00 PM – 7:00 PM

  • Saturday, June 7: Beginning at 6:00 AM

🌟 Join the Fun!

Don’t miss out on this exciting event that brings our community together in the spirit of health, fun, and camaraderie. Whether you’re running, cheering, or volunteering, Run the Quay offers something for everyone. We can’t wait to see you there!

For more information and to register, visit the official Run the Quay website: fuquay-varina.com/run-the-quay