Good morning, Wake County—and happy National Oyster Day! Today is the one day when slurping at the dinner table isn’t rude; it’s practically patriotic.
Whether you love oysters raw, roasted, fried or covered with enough hot sauce to make them unrecognizable, today is your chance to shell-ebrate. And remember: only about one in 10,000 oysters produces a pearl, so perhaps ordering another dozen could be considered an investment strategy. That’s my story, and I’m sticking to it!
Local oyster lovers can enjoy these specials today:
STIR Raleigh, 4242 Six Forks Road in North Hills, is advertising $2 fresh oysters all day for National Oyster Day. STIR Raleigh
St. Roch Fine Oysters + Bar, 223 S. Wilmington Street in downtown Raleigh, offers half-price West Coast oysters every Wednesday from 5–9 p.m. It also advertises half-price “Shucker’s Choice” oysters during its daily 5–6 p.m. special. St. Roch
Oyster specials may be limited and available only while supplies last, so calling the restaurant before making a special trip is always a pearl of wisdom.
Now, let’s crack open today’s Wake News & Events and see what else is happening around our community—no shucking required!
See you out there in beautiful Wake,
Diane
—Philippians 4:6
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.”
B’s Customer Designs – Handmade Wreaths That Make a Statement
Support a small business and a work-at-home mom when you choose a one-of-a-kind wreath from B’s Customer Designs.
Each piece is carefully crafted to be uniquely yours—beautiful, eye-catching, and the perfect statement for your front door.
Turn your entryway into something special. Shop B’s Customer Designs today and bring home the beauty of handmade.
Check out her latest creations and order your own: B’s Custom Creations by BR
Knock, knock. Who’s there? Oyster.
Oyster who? Oyster glad I didn't tell you another fish joke?
An Afternoon Among the Vines: Discovering Gregory Vineyards
Romance Rises Above the Clouds
Some destinations invite you to visit. Others quietly whisper, stay a little longer.
Highlands, North Carolina, is one of those special places. Perched 4,118 feet above sea level in the Blue Ridge Mountains, it combines misty forests and magnificent waterfalls with charming boutiques, galleries and memorable dining.
At the center of it all is Old Edwards Inn & Spa, an elegant retreat blending European-inspired luxury with warm Southern hospitality. Beautiful gardens, outdoor Jacuzzis, inviting fireplaces and intimate gathering spaces create the perfect setting for couples to slow down and reconnect.
Located approximately five and a half to six hours from Wake County, Highlands feels wonderfully removed from everyday life. After checking in, stroll hand in hand along Main Street before enjoying dinner at Madison’s Restaurant or wood-fired specialties at Four65 Bistro.
The following morning, explore nearby Bridal Veil Falls and Dry Falls, where a short path leads behind an 80-foot curtain of water. Couples seeking a longer adventure can hike to Glen Falls, a beautiful triple waterfall in Nantahala National Forest.
Return to the inn for a relaxing treatment at The Spa at Old Edwards, followed by cocktails, live music or a quiet evening beside the fire. Romance packages may include accommodations, dinner, spa credits, sparkling wine and chocolate-covered strawberries.
The true luxury of Highlands is the gift of time—time to walk together, talk without interruption and remember why you chose one another.
For couples searching for an unforgettable North Carolina getaway, the road to Highlands leads somewhere truly special.
Water Babies of Greater Raleigh offers expert-led swim lessons for babies and toddlers from birth to age 4 in warm, welcoming Triangle pools.
You’ll be in the water together for fun, child-led classes filled with songs, play, and gentle skill-building—creating special bonding moments while your little one gains confidence.
Why parents love Water Babies:
✅ Builds early water confidence and helps prevent fear of water
✅ Introduces foundational water safety skills
✅ Supports healthy physical and emotional development
✅ Creates quality parent-child bonding time
✅ Taught by caring, highly trained local instructors
Give your child the gift of water confidence and joyful memories. Spots fill quickly—contact Water Babies of Greater Raleigh today!
Adoption Fees Have Gone to the Dogs!
Looking for a new best friend? The Wake County Animal Center is waiving all adoption fees throughout August as part of its Clear the Shelters campaign.
Every adoptable dog and cat is waiting for the same thing: a safe, loving home. Your newest family member may already be waiting to meet you!
Supplies and Back-to-School Smiles!
Wake County families can find free school supplies, backpacks and family fun at several upcoming back-to-school celebrations.
Events are scheduled at Method Community Park on August 8, Tarboro Road Park on August 15 and Sanderford Road Park on August 22. Supplies are free while they last, and some events require children to be present.
Helping Wake County Families Feed with Confidence
August is National Breastfeeding Awareness Month, and Wake County is reminding parents that support is available throughout the breastfeeding journey.
Wake County WIC offers breastfeeding education, peer counseling, lactation support and breast-pump assistance for eligible families. Parents do not have to navigate every question or challenge alone—trained help is available.
For Wake County WIC breastfeeding support, call 919-250-4720.
What’s Happening in Wake County
Wednesday, August 5, 2026
Happy Wednesday, Wake County! We’ve made it halfway through the week—and that deserves a little celebration! Whether you want to play giant lawn games, enjoy live music, take a peaceful walk, support a wonderful community cause, test your television trivia knowledge or rock out with Duane Betts, there is something waiting for you today.
Here are the day’s confirmed events, listed chronologically so you can plan your Wake County adventure!
10:00 AM–6:00 PM — Game On! 🎲
Location: Moore Square, 201 S. Blount Street, Raleigh
Cost: Free
Perfect for: Families, children, couples and anyone who loves a little friendly competition
Get ready to play! Moore Square will be filled with giant lawn games, board games and plenty of opportunities for lighthearted fun. Activities may include giant Jenga, chess, cornhole, hula hoops, Frisbee, soccer balls and card games.
10:30 AM–1:00 PM — Walk Moore! 🚶♀️🌳
Location: Moore Square, 201 S. Blount Street, Raleigh
Meeting point: Corner of Martin and Blount streets
Cost: Free
Perfect for: All ages and fitness levels
Lace up your comfortable walking shoes and enjoy a leisurely, low-impact stroll through one of downtown Raleigh’s prettiest green spaces. Park staff will guide the first 30 minutes while sharing interesting facts about the park’s natural surroundings and history. After that, continue exploring at your own pace.
Want to see even more things to do in Wake County?
Click the banner below to explore the complete Wake County Events Calendar, featuring more of today’s events, tomorrow’s activities and exciting events happening throughout the month.
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For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
