2024 North Carolina State Fair: A Taste of Tradition with New Thrills

The North Carolina State Fair is back and better than ever, running from October 17th to October 27th, 2024. This annual extravaganza is a beloved tradition for North Carolinians, offering a delightful mix of food, fun, and entertainment.

NEW FOOD VENDORS: A Culinary Adventure

One of the most anticipated aspects of the State Fair is the wide variety of delicious food options. This year, the fairgrounds will be buzzing with new food vendors offering unique and mouthwatering dishes. From fried pickle mac and cheese to exotic international cuisine treats to seafood delights and even pickle dr. pepper, there’s sure to be something to satisfy every craving.

THRILLING RIDES for All Ages

The State Fair wouldn’t be complete without its impressive lineup of rides. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker looking for heart-pounding roller coasters or a family with young children seeking gentler rides, there’s something to suit all ages. Expect to find classic favorites like Ferris wheels and bumper cars, as well as new and exciting attractions that will leave you breathless and waiting in line for round 2.

CHECK THE FOOD & RIDE FINDER TO SEARCH YOUR FAVORITES!

Live Entertainment and Events

In addition to the food and rides, the State Fair offers a variety of live entertainment and events. Enjoy live music performances, educational exhibits, and family-friendly activities. There’s always something going on, so be sure to check the schedule to plan your visit.

Tips for a Memorable Visit

  • Arrive early: To avoid crowds and long lines, it’s best to arrive at the fairgrounds early in the day.
  • Wear comfortable shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking, so make sure to wear comfortable footwear.
  • Bring a reusable water bottle: Staying hydrated is important, especially on hot days.
  • Consider purchasing a fair admission and ride pass: This can save you money in the long run.

The 2024 North Carolina State Fair promises to be an unforgettable experience. With new food vendors, thrilling rides, and a variety of entertainment options, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So mark your calendars and get ready for a fun-filled day at the fair!

Celebrate Fuquay-Varina : A Community Tradition

Get Ready for a Day of FUQUAY FUN!

Join the Fuquay-Varina community for the annual Celebrate Fuquay-Varina Festival on Saturday, October 5th, from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm in Downtown Fuquay-Varina. This vibrant event is a fantastic opportunity to come together as a community and celebrate everything we love about our town. Front Porch Realty will be there for the festivities so be sure to stop by our booth and say hey, grab a swag bag, and enter our giveaway contest!

What to Expect:

  • Live Entertainment: Enjoy a variety of musical performances throughout the day.
  • Craft Beer: Sample delicious local brews from your favorite breweries.
  • Food Trucks: Indulge in a wide range of culinary delights from food trucks.
  • Arts & Crafts: Discover unique handmade treasures from local artisans.
  • Free Kids Zone: Keep the little ones entertained with fun activities and games.
JAMS – SIPS – SAVORS –

EVENTS

MAIN STREET STAGE

BEER GARDEN STAGE

THE STORM TOUR

KING BMX BIKE SHOW

DRAGON QUEST

Important Information:

  • Pets are not allowed at Town events.
  • Social District Changes: Please note that the Social District will not be open during the festival. It will resume in the Fuquay District from 6:00 to 9:00 pm after the festival ends.
  • Beer Consumption: Beer purchased at the festival must stay within the designated Beer Garden.
  • Parking: Parking is available at Centennial Square, Falcon Park, the Community Center, and Downtown street parking (excluding areas affected by road closures).

Don’t miss out on this exciting community event! Bring your friends and family and join the town of Fuquay for a day of fun, food, and Fuquay-filled festivities. We can’t wait to see you there!

Fuquay-Varina’s 2024 Senior Services Expo: A Must-Attend Event

Are you a senior or caregiver looking for valuable resources and information? The Fuquay-Varina Chamber Senior Services Expo is the perfect event for you! This annual gathering brings together a wide range of local businesses and organizations offering insight, expertise, and solutions tailored to the needs of aging adults and their caregivers.

Event Details

  • Date: September 18th, 2024
  • Time: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
  • Location: Fire Station Number 1, 301 South Fuquay Avenue, Fuquay-Varina, NC

Front Porch Realty Will Be There!

As your local real estate experts, Front Porch Realty will be on hand to answer all your questions about buying and/or selling a home. We’ll also be giving away swag bags and hosting a raffle for a beautiful fall mum.

What to Expect

This free event features over 50 providers, offering a variety of insights and resources. From healthcare to financial planning to community resources and support groups, you’ll find everything you need to live a fulfilling and independent life.

Why Attend?

  • Discover new resources: Find valuable information about aging-related issues and services available in your community.
  • Connect with experts: Speak with professionals who can offer guidance and support.
  • Learn about the latest trends: Stay informed about the latest advancements in senior care and technology.
  • Support your local community: Help local businesses and organizations thrive while promoting a positive aging experience.

A Growing Senior Population

Fuquay-Varina is experiencing a significant increase in its senior population. This trend is reflected in the growing demand for senior-focused services and resources. The Senior Services Expo offers a valuable opportunity to connect with local providers and explore the many options available to seniors and their caregivers.

Don’t Miss Out!

The Fuquay-Varina Chamber Senior Services Expo is a free event open to the public. Whether you’re a senior, a caregiver, or simply interested in learning more about aging-related issues, this event is a must-attend. Mark your calendar and be ready to engage and learn on Wednesday, September 18th from 10am – 2pm.

Fuquay-Varina Middle School: A New Chapter Begins

Fuquay-Varina is excited to announce the grand opening of its new middle school!

Get ready to explore the state-of-the-art facilities and meet the dedicated staff at their Community Open House on Saturday, August 24th from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM.

A Modern Learning Environment

The new Fuquay-Varina Middle School is a significant addition to the Wake County Public School System. This impressive facility boasts a 241,930 square foot main building, a 1,240 square foot auxiliary building, and expansive athletic fields. Situated on a spacious 64.95-acre lot, the school offers ample room for students to learn, grow, and thrive.

Join FVMS for the Open House

The entire community is invited to come and experience the new school firsthand. Take a tour of the modern classrooms, explore the cutting-edge technology, and meet the passionate educators who will be shaping young minds.

When: Saturday, August 24th, 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM Where: 1201 Bowling Road, Fuquay-Varina, NC

We hope to see you there!

FM2FV Concert Series

FM2FV (Follow me to Fuquay-Varina) Concert Series has become a popular local Spring and Fall event and is on it’s NINTH year! Fuquay-Varina is all about supporting local and making sure our community has time to get together, enjoy each others company, dance & sing, meet the faces of Fuquay, and even hear from our Mayor, Blake Massengill! Locals gather on Thursday evening’s (dates TBD for future events) and enjoy live music, local brews, food trucks, and other activities! There are only TWO concerts left this season so don’t miss out on all the fun! Here is the upcoming schedule –

September 5 – BAND OF OZ

September 12 – NORTH TOWER September 19 – SLEEPING BOOTY October 17 – JIM QUICK & COASTLINE

Location: 102 N Main St Fuquay-Varina, NC 27526 Leave the coolers and pets at home but bring your chairs and settle in for a night out with friends and family! The FM2FV concerts are kid-friendly!

The Newest Chapter in Fuquay-Varina’s Culinary Story

Step back in time and savor the present at Fuquay-Varina’s newest culinary gem – The Library Steakhouse! Housed within the beautifully converted walls of the old town library, this establishment offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern culinary delights. The extensive menu at The Library Steakhouse caters to all palates. Dive into their – best readers, succulent steaks cooked to your preference, from sizzling ribeyes to melt-in-your-mouth filets. But the story doesn’t end there. They offer a delightful array of tempting appetizers and sides to complement your meal. Start with a crisp wedge salad sprinkled with crumbled blue cheese and candied pecans, or indulge in our decadent lobster bisque. Pair your steak with asparagus in lemon butter or  a creamy helping of our signature lobster mac-and-cheese, a dish so good it deserves its own chapter in the town’s culinary history! The Library Steakhouse is more than just a restaurant – it’s a testament to Fuquay-Varina’s vibrant spirit. It’s a place where the town’s rich past meets a delicious present, offering an experience that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more. So what are you waiting for? Head out and write your own chapter at The Library Steakhouse – Fuquay-Varina’s newest must-try destination!

Open Wednesday through Sunday :

Reservations not required but suggested on Weekends Wednesday & Thursday: 4-10:30pm Friday: 4-11pm Saturday: 12-11pm Sunday: 12-8pm

Start July off with a BANG 💥

LET FREEDPOM RING! Join the Town of Fuquay in celebrating Independence Day with your friends and neighbors! The party’s going down at South Park on Monday, July 1st. Gates open at 6 pm, so you can snag a good spot to spread out your blankets or chairs.
 
Here’s what you can look forward to:
💥A variety of food trucks💥 Come hungry because there will be plenty of delicious options to tantalize your taste buds.
💥A Splashin’ good time💥 The splash pad will be open from 6-8:30 pm, perfect for the kiddos (or adults who want to cool off!).
💥Live music to get your groove on💥 Get ready to tap your toes and sing along to some great tunes starting at 6:30pm.
💥A dazzling fireworks extravaganza💥 The grand finale starts (approx.) 9:15 pm, so get ready for oohs, ahhhs, and plenty of red, white, and blue!
  Just a heads up, no furry friends or alcoholic beverages are allowed at the event! Feel free to bring your coolers stocked with goodies and plenty of water! Let freedom ring (and the fireworks boom!) This is gonna be a celebration to remember!
Food Trucks:
Party in a Pita
Off the Hog
TJ's Kitchen
Lili's Kitchen
Tombachi
Beefy Buns
Hot Box Pizza
Ultimate Egg Rolls
Truman's Smokehouse
A Taste of the Bayou
Safari Eatz
JAM Ice Cream & Shaved Ice
D&J Concessions
NC Sweet Tea
Pelican's SnoBalls
Blackberry Creek Kettle Corn
Cinnabon
Mama Churros
WaffleUpp

Fuquay-Varina Celebrates PRIDE Month

🏳️‍🌈Come one, come all, come as you are!🏳️‍🌈

The Fuquay-Varina Pride Celebration is happening THIS SATURDAY, June 15th. Get ready for a day jampacked with some of your favorite local businesses celebrating the strength, courage, and resilience, contributions and achievements made by members of the LGBTQ+ community.

What’s in store? Check it out –

8am Workout of the Day: Stonewall at Crossfit Shoofly
10am Fuquay-Varina Pride Strut from Council Gym to Town Hall (all ages) (0.5 miles)
11am-12pm Fuquay-Varina Growers Market (Chamber parking lot)
12pm-4pm Fuquay-Varina Pride Celebration at Mason Jar Lager Co. (all ages)
3pm-6pm Crazy Glaze Pride Paint Day (tickets required, 8+)
4:30pm-6:30pm Teen Social at Stick Boy Bread Co. (13-17 year olds)
7pm-10pm Crazy Glaze Pride Paint Night (tickets required, 8+)
9pm-1am Pride After Dark: Karaoke at The Brick (21+)

Fuquay-Varina Gets Social: Take Your Brews on the Move!

Calling all craft beer lovers and adventurous sippers! Fuquay-Varina’s downtown scene just got a whole lot more exciting with the launch of their brand new Social District. That’s right, folks – starting today (Thursday, May 23rd!), you can grab a brew from your favorite local spot and enjoy it while strolling through the designated district.

Cheers to Weekend Wanderings🍻

Here’s the scoop:

  • Hours: Thursdays & Fridays from 4pm-9pm, Saturdays from 12pm-9pm.
  • The Essentials: You gotta be 21+ to participate, and your drink must be in an official Fuquay-Varina Social District cup. Boundaries will be clearly marked, so you know exactly where you can roam with your beverage. All drinks must be consumed and disposed of within the district boundaries.
  • Supporting Local: Look for participating businesses with a special window cling, depending on the color of the sign depends on if they are taking part in the district fun or not. GREEN = Beverages may be brought into the establisment BLUE = Beverages are sold here and outside beverages are allowed RED = Beverages are not allowed in establishment

The Social District is a fantastic way to support our amazing local breweries and establishments all while exploring the charm of downtown Fuquay-Varina in a whole new way. 🍺Picture this:

  • Brewery/Resturant hopping: Visit multiple breweries, sample their latest creations, and enjoy them outside in the beautiful weather.
  • Lively evenings: Take your beverage to an outdoor concert or browse the shops with a refreshing beer in hand (in a Social District cup, of course!).

This is the perfect chance to experience our growing town in a fresh, new way this summer. Grab a cold one from a local brewery, soak up the atmosphere, and explore the charming shops and eateries around town. It’s a win-win for everyone – you get to enjoy your favorite brews outdoors, and our local businesses get a boost.🍸

Cheers to summer, cheers to local brews, and cheers to Fuquay-Varina!

Check out the participating businesses below – FUQUAY DISTRICT – Fainting Goat Brewing Company Happy’s Country Club Inner Beast Hatchet House Revelry Barber & Shave Shop El Cantarito Bar and Grill The Mill Original Strength Institute Curated Craft Marketplace Brus on Main Anna’s Pizzeria Merle Norman Cosmetics & All Things Girly Boutique Ruby James and Maren Mays Abshure Realty Group Mason Jar Tavern Casa Amigos Cocina Mexican Bar Family Optical Graff Creative Pass It On Thrift Store KnB’s Marketplace Brus on Main Vicious Fishes VARINA DISTRICT – Pints Aviator TapHouse Aviator Pizzeria & Beer Shop Aviator Smokehouse Oaklyn Springs Taproom Rebel PT Big Chat Salon Mason Jar Lager Company J&S New York Pizza Lollipops Children’s Boutique Nil’s Mediterranean Cuisine Moonlight Liquor Lounge Live View Studio

A Celebration for Every Mom in Fuquay-Varina

This Mother’s Day weekend, treat the special lady in your life to a day she’ll never forget! Whether your mom’s a shopping enthusiast, a music lover, or loves a good food spot, Fuquay offers something for everyone.

For the Shopping Mom:

  • Fuquay Historic District: This charming district boasts a variety of unique boutiques and shops. Head over to a Southern Dash to find some cute summer outfits (previously Shoppes on Main), or take a stroll down to KnB’s Marketplace and browse their many vendors for that one unique gift.
  • Varina District: Some moms love their tea time, some moms love their cooking time. Either way, Fuquay Spice and Tea offers TONS of options from cooking oils, to unique seasoning blends, teas, and so much more! Don’t forget to stop by Flowers on Broad Street and grab her a beautiful bouquet or a new house plant!

For the Music Mom:

  • LIVE music for Mom: Bring your dancin’ shoes and shake off the blues as Brus on Main celebrates Mother’s Day with the Mutts! Brus on Main will be serving up Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner + cocktails and coffee all while you can enjoy some live music from the Purebred Mutts.

For the Foodie Mom:

  • Brunch is Always a Good Idea: Treat Mom to a delicious brunch at one of our town’s many unique dining options. Mason Jar Tavern offers delicious brunch options.
  • Relax, Watch the Canes, and Eat Good: Maybe mom is in the mood for some wings or a burger? Check out The Brick for a unique twist to ‘bar food’! With many choices for food, beer, and specialty cocktails; The Brick is always a great option!

Think outside of the box:

  • Take her Axe Throwing: Let Mom relieve some stress at Inner Beast Hatchet House! If you’ve never been you are certainly in for a fun-filled afternoon! Never thrown an axe? That’s fine, it gets easier and easier with each throw and you’ll have some AXEperts right by your side if needed!
  • Explore the Outdoors: Picnic in the park for you and Mom? With many parks and trails throughout Fuquay, there’s ample ways to enjoy the outdoors with mom! Parks of Fuquay / Trails of Fuquay

Making it a Day: No matter what activities you choose, personalize the day to make it extra special for Mom. Here are some local happenings to help plan your days out: