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Two of our hometown favorites have earned some serious national applause! U.S. News & World Report named Cary and Apex among America’s best places to live for 2026–2027. Cary landed at an impressive No. 11 nationwide, ranked No. 5 among medium-sized cities and was crowned the No. 1 place to live in North Carolina for the second consecutive year. Apex wasn’t far behind, claiming the No. 20 spot in the nation.

With strong job markets, low unemployment and an outstanding quality of life, Cary and Apex are proving what Wake County residents already know: we live in a pretty wonderful place!

Wake County Public Libraries now offers Chromebooks and mobile internet hotspots for home use through its new Mobile Access Kit program. Library cardholders can borrow the devices at no cost from 13 participating library locations, making it easier to work remotely, attend online classes, search for jobs and access essential digital services. The program currently includes 100 Chromebooks and mobile hotspots and prioritizes communities with limited access to computers or reliable broadband internet.

Colorful boats, pounding drums and the aromas of Asian street food will fill Cary’s Koka Booth Amphitheatre during the 11th Annual Asia Fest, featuring the Greater Triangle Area Dragon Boat Festival. Held Saturday, September 19, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., the celebration brings nearly 100 exhibits and activities to the shores of Symphony Lake, including competitive dragon boat racing, cultural displays, live music and dance, games, health screenings and foods representing cultures from across Asia.

The festival takes place at Koka Booth Amphitheatre, 8003 Regency Parkway, Cary. General parking in amphitheatre-owned lots is free, while limited preferred parking is available for a fee. Outside food, beverages, coolers and pets are not permitted, so plan to enjoy the festival’s many food vendors and arrive early for the best views of the races.

Professional women’s soccer takes center stage when the North Carolina Courage face Gotham FC on Saturday, September 19, at 6:30 p.m. at First Horizon Stadium inside WakeMed Soccer Park. The evening is designated Local Heroes Night, presented by United Way of North Carolina, recognizing the first responders, healthcare professionals and other community heroes who serve North Carolina.

Fans can also celebrate the partnership between the Courage and Special Olympics North Carolina, which includes a Unified Soccer event bringing athletes with and without intellectual disabilities together on the field. The match will be played at 101 Soccer Park Drive in Cary. Tickets are required and should be purchased through the official NC Courage website. Arrive early to allow time for parking, security screening and pregame activities.

Historic downtown Wake Forest becomes a gardener’s paradise during Fall Herb Fest, a free, family-friendly outdoor festival held Saturday, September 19, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sunday, September 20, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Visitors can browse an impressive selection of organic, non-GMO and heritage herbs, along with native and locally grown perennials ideal for refreshing fall gardens.

The market also features local artists, specialty vendors, entertainment and knowledgeable growers who can help visitors select plants suited to their gardens. HerbFest takes place rain or shine at 530 S. White Street in Wake Forest. Admission is free, and shoppers may want to bring a wagon or sturdy reusable bag for carrying their new garden treasures.

Crawl, flutter or hop your way to the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences for the 30th Anniversary BugFest on Saturday, September 19, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. This enormous, free celebration features more than 100 exhibits, crafts, games and hands-on activities throughout the museum and downtown Raleigh.

This year’s theme, “Hoppers,” shines a spotlight on treehoppers, leafhoppers and planthoppers—including the invasive spotted lanternfly. Visitors can meet entomologists, enjoy science presentations and live music, explore the connection between insects and robotics, and cheer during quirky competitions such as Stag Beetle Battles and The Roachingham 500. Adventurous eaters can even sample insect-inspired dishes at Café Insecta, which opens at 10 a.m. and serves until the food runs out—so arrive early!

Location: 11 W. Jones St., Raleigh
Admission: Free; all ages welcome

Bring the whole family—and your friendliest smile—to Wake Forest Good Neighbor Day on Saturday, September 19, from 1 to 4 p.m. at E. Carroll Joyner Park. Presented by the Wake Forest Human Relations Council, this completely free celebration brings together different generations, cultures and backgrounds for an afternoon centered on community, kindness and fun.

Visitors can enjoy local musicians, DJ music, dancing, giveaways and recreational activities for children and adults. Family attractions include face painting, balloon art, bracelet making, coloring, a Home Depot building activity and a performance by the Faith Tabernacle Youth Choir. Free hot dogs and Nothing Bundt Cakes samples will also be available while supplies last.

A special highlight arrives around 2:30 p.m., when Wake Forest’s Good Neighbor of the Year Awards will honor one adult and one young person who have made an exceptional difference in their community. More than 5,000 area residents have participated in Good Neighbor Day since it began in 2006—proof that being neighborly never goes out of style!

Location: E. Carroll Joyner Park, 701 Harris Road, Wake Forest
Time: 1–4 p.m.
Admission: Free; all ages welcome