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Hello friends!

We made it to Friday—and today comes with a little extra fun! It’s National Emoji Day, so go ahead and add a little 😎🎉☀️ to your day. After all, sometimes a tiny smiley face says what words can’t!

Fun fact: July 17, 1955, was also the day Disneyland opened its magical gates for the very first time! That means today is a celebration of imagination, happiness, and a little bit of everyday magic. 🏰✨

Thank you for spending part of your day with Wake News & Events! We appreciate every reader, every share, and every person who helps us keep our community connected.

So grab your coffee ☕, pick your favorite emoji, and let’s make this Friday a great one! 😊

See you out there in beautiful Wake,
Diane

When you shop through the Amazon affiliate links featured in our newsletter, a portion of the commission is donated to esophageal cancer research in loving memory of our son, Darren, whom we lost to this devastating disease three years ago.

Thank you for supporting our mission!❤️

—Philippians 4:6
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.”

Do you own a restaurant with amazing happy hour specials or weekly deals? Let us know — we’d love to feature your business in the Wake News & Events newsletter and add you to the list. email: [email protected]

Kids Say the Darndest Things! 😂
Mom asked her 5-year-old, “Why did you put your homework in the freezer?”
He replied, “Because my teacher said it was a cool assignment!” 😆

Tucked away at the southern tip of the Outer Banks, Ocracoke Island feels like a place where the rest of the world quietly fades away. Accessible only by ferry, private boat, or small aircraft, this charming island rewards visitors with pristine beaches, rich history, salty sea breezes, and a slower pace of life that feels almost magical.

With no major highways, no chain hotels dominating the landscape, and miles of untouched shoreline, Ocracoke is the perfect escape for travelers looking to trade busy schedules for barefoot walks, spectacular sunsets, and unforgettable coastal adventures.

Ocracoke’s beaches are among the most beautiful in North Carolina. Protected as part of the Cape Hatteras National Seashore, the island offers 16 miles of wide, sandy beaches where visitors can swim, search for shells, build sandcastles, surf, fish, or simply relax with the sound of waves rolling in.

Unlike many crowded beach destinations, Ocracoke’s shoreline offers room to breathe. It’s a place where you can watch dolphins playing offshore, spot seabirds soaring above the dunes, and enjoy a sunset that feels like nature’s own nightly performance.

The heart of the island is Ocracoke Village, a picturesque waterfront community filled with colorful cottages, locally owned shops, art galleries, and restaurants serving fresh coastal flavors.

Take a leisurely stroll through the village, rent a bicycle or golf cart, and explore at island speed. Visit the iconic Ocracoke Lighthouse, the oldest operating lighthouse in North Carolina, standing proudly since 1823. While visitors cannot climb the lighthouse, its historic beauty makes it one of the island’s most photographed landmarks.

Ocracoke’s history is anything but ordinary. The island was once a hideout for the infamous pirate Blackbeard, whose real name was Edward Teach. The waters surrounding Ocracoke were part of his territory, and his final battle took place nearby in 1718.

Today, visitors can learn about the island’s fascinating past at the Ocracoke Preservation Society Museum, where exhibits share stories of island families, maritime traditions, and the unique culture that has developed over centuries.

Adventure seekers will find plenty to love on Ocracoke. Popular activities include:

The island is also part of the Cape Hatteras National Seashore, offering some of the darkest skies on the East Coast—making it a spectacular destination for stargazing.

Ocracoke’s dining scene may be small, but it delivers big coastal flavor. Fresh local seafood, homemade treats, and waterfront dining are all part of the experience. Enjoy everything from locally caught shrimp and fish tacos to ice cream cones while wandering through the village after a day at the beach.

Don’t rush your meals here—the best island memories often happen while sitting outside, enjoying the breeze, and watching boats drift through the harbor.

Ocracoke isn’t just a place you visit—it’s a place you experience. It’s morning coffee while watching the sunrise, bike rides along quiet roads, conversations with friendly locals, and evenings spent under a sky full of stars.

This little island offers something increasingly rare: the chance to slow down, reconnect, and enjoy the simple pleasures of coastal living.

So pack your sunscreen, bring your sense of adventure, and prepare to discover one of North Carolina’s most unforgettable treasures—Ocracoke Island, where the journey is just as beautiful as the destination.

The Wake County housing market is entering a new phase in 2026, shifting from the fast-paced bidding wars of recent years to a more balanced market. Home values remain strong, supported by continued population growth, job opportunities, and steady demand throughout the region.

The median home price is currently around $475,000, showing resilience despite changing market conditions. At the same time, inventory has increased, giving buyers more homes to choose from and creating a less competitive environment than the peak of the housing boom.

Homes are taking a little longer to sell, with properties spending approximately 24–28 days on the market compared to shorter timelines in previous years. While well-priced and desirable homes can still attract multiple offers, buyers are gaining more negotiating power, with many homes selling closer to market value rather than significantly above asking price.

Wake County continues to be one of North Carolina’s most desirable places to live, thanks to its strong economy, excellent amenities, and quality of life. The 2026 market reflects a healthy adjustment—offering new opportunities for both buyers and sellers as the region continues to grow.

Traveling across North Carolina just became easier. NCDOT has launched new intercity bus routes, including the new Pine Line connecting Raleigh, Fayetteville, Lumberton, and Atlanta, along with expanded service to Winston-Salemand Sanford. The new routes provide more affordable and convenient travel options across the region.

See the new routes and schedules:

Grab your blankets, lawn chairs, and favorite movie snacks—it's time for a magical evening at the park! Family Movie Night: Mufasa: The Lion King invites families to enjoy an unforgettable outdoor movie experience filled with adventure, laughter, and Disney magic.

📅 Date: Friday, July 17
🕢 Time: 7:30 PM
📍 Location: E. Carroll Joyner Park, 701 Harris Road, Wake Forest, NC 27587
💲 Cost: Free

Bring the whole family and settle in under the stars as the story of Mufasa: The Lion King comes to life on the big screen. Families are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, cozy blankets, and snacks to enjoy a relaxing summer evening surrounded by friends, neighbors, and plenty of movie magic.

It’s the perfect way to make summer memories—because every great adventure begins with a little imagination! 🦁✨

Get ready for a night of great music, delicious food, and summer fun in Holly Springs! The Dark Echoes Food Truck Rodeo & Concert brings together a tasty lineup of local food trucks, beverage vendors, and live entertainment for the perfect evening out with family and friends.

📅 Date: Friday, July 17
🕕 Time: 6:00 PM
📍 Location: Holly Springs Cultural Center, 300 West Ballentine Street, Holly Springs, NC 27540
💲 Cost: Free admission

Enjoy a lively food truck rodeo, sip on local beverages, and rock out to live music featuring Pink Floyd tribute acts that will have fans enjoying classic sounds under the summer sky. The event is family-friendly, so bring the kids, pack your lawn chairs and coolers, and settle in for a night of community, great tunes, and unforgettable memories.

It’s the perfect recipe for a summer evening: good food, good music, and good company!

School’s out, sunshine is in, and it’s time to Rec and Roll! Bring the kids to Rec and Roll Summer Play Day for a fun-filled morning of outdoor adventure, movement, and making new memories with friends.

📅 Date: Friday, July 17
🕙 Time: 10:00 AM
📍 Location: Lake Benson Park, 921 Buffaloe Road, Garner, NC 27529
💲 Cost: Free

This family-friendly Park & Recreation program is designed to keep kids active and entertained with lawn games, sports equipment, and plenty of outdoor activities. Whether they’re running, playing, competing, or simply enjoying the fresh air, children will have the perfect opportunity to burn some energy and have a blast.

Pack your sunscreen, bring your water bottle, and get ready for a morning of summer fun at the park—because the best memories are made when kids get outside and play! 🌳☀️

Grab your paddle and get ready to play! Pickleball Palooza is bringing the community together for a full day of fun, fitness, and friendly competition as part of Parks and Recreation Month. Whether you’re a pickleball pro or picking up a paddle for the first time, this family-friendly event is the perfect way to get active and meet new friends.

📅 Date: Friday, July 17
🕘 Time: All Day
📍 Location: Seymour Athletic Fields / Apex Nature Park, 2500 Evans Road, Apex, NC 27502
💲 Cost: Free
📝 Registration: Registration may be required — check with Apex Parks, Recreation & Cultural Resources for event registration details.

Enjoy introductory pickleball lessons, open play opportunities, and activities designed to bring families and neighbors together through movement and connection. Come ready to laugh, learn, and enjoy one of America’s fastest-growing sports!

No experience? No problem! Just bring your energy and get ready to have a ball!

Climb aboard for a nostalgic journey through North Carolina’s railroad history at New Hope Valley Railway, where the past comes rolling back to life! Located in New Hill, this historic railway offers visitors the chance to experience the charm of vintage train travel while enjoying a relaxing ride through the beautiful countryside.

📍 Location: New Hope Valley Railway, 3900 Bonsal Road, New Hill, NC 27562

The Weekday Historic Train Ride is the perfect family-friendly adventure for train lovers of all ages. Passengers can settle into vintage rail cars, hear the sounds of the locomotive, and enjoy a unique ride that showcases the history and importance of railroads in our region.

Operated by dedicated railroad volunteers, New Hope Valley Railway preserves North Carolina’s rail heritage while creating memorable experiences for today’s families. Kids can enjoy the excitement of riding a real train, while adults can appreciate the craftsmanship, history, and slower pace of a classic rail journey.

Whether you’re looking for a fun summer outing, a unique day trip, or a chance to make special memories with the family, the historic train ride offers a one-of-a-kind experience that feels like a trip back in time.

So grab your conductor’s hat, bring your camera, and get ready for a ride where history meets adventure—because every great journey begins with “All aboard!” 🚂

For schedules, ticket information, and upcoming rides:
Visit New Hope Valley Railway’s official website:

Unleash your creativity at Paint & Sip at The Makery on Saturday, July 18, at 6:00 PM. Enjoy a fun evening of painting as you create a vibrant oversized floral canvas while relaxing with friends and fellow art lovers.

📍 Location: The Makery
💲 Cost: Registration required

No experience needed—just bring your imagination and get ready for a colorful night of creativity! Register through The Makery to reserve your spot.

Looking for the perfect Saturday night plans? Knightdale is serving up two great ways to relax, connect, and enjoy the community!

🎸 Live Music on the Patio
📅 Date: Saturday, July 18
🕔 Time: 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
📍 Location: Oak City Brewing Company
💲 Cost: Free

Kick back under the patio lights with free live acoustic music, craft brews, and a laid-back atmosphere. Bring your friends, your four-legged companions, and your appetite—this dog-friendly beer garden also features local food trucks on-site!

🌿 Saturday Night Lites with Haven Herb
📅 Date: Saturday, July 18
🕖 Time: 7:00 PM – 11:00 PM
📍 Location: Haven Farm Venue & Shoppe
💲 Cost: Free admission (RSVP recommended)

Enjoy a relaxing evening at the farm with local vendors, herbal-inspired features, community connections, and nighttime entertainment. It’s the perfect way to unwind, support local makers, and soak up the unique charm of Knightdale.

Two events, one great night—choose your vibe and make it a Saturday to remember!

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