- Wake News and Events
- Posts
- 📫New Greenway Extensions | Mark the Date | Vanilla Ice Cream Recall | Milk Money Magic | Taylor Swift Donates to NC Patient 📍
📫New Greenway Extensions | Mark the Date | Vanilla Ice Cream Recall | Milk Money Magic | Taylor Swift Donates to NC Patient 📍
Your Wake County News & Events newsletter - The digital way to stay informed on all that is Wake County! Thank you for subscribing!
Hello friends!
Did you know Tuesdays are statistically the most productive day of the week? That’s right—your brain is firing on all cylinders, your coffee is working overtime, and your to-do list doesn’t stand a chance.
So go ahead, tackle that project, send that email, or finally clean out that inbox. Make it count, because Tuesday is basically the MVP of weekdays.
You’ve got this!
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.”
✨ Shop Boujee for Less! ✨
Love looking fabulous without breaking the bank? When you shop through our Wake News & Events Boujee link, part of your purchase helps fund Esophageal Cancer research — so you can feel good while looking great!
💎 New deals drop daily — and if you’re lucky, you’ll uncover some hidden steals that’ll make your wallet happy.
So go ahead — enjoy the boujee life at budget prices.
👉 Shop our Boujee Link today and sparkle for a cause!
Please note that for some deals you may need to be an Amazon member.
Please note that for some deals you mayneed to be an Amazon member.
📍 Today’s Chuckle 📍
Why did Tuesday apply for a promotion? Because Monday got all the blame and Friday got all the fun—Tuesday just wanted some respect!
📍 Trivia 📍
1879 – Thomas Edison successfully tests the first practical electric light bulb. After many trials, Edison’s carbon filament bulb burned for over 13 hours, revolutionizing modern life.


Discovering North Carolina
The Heat is On!
If you’re looking for a fall festival that’s equal parts smoky, savory, and sensational, the Lexington Barbecue Festival on October 25, 2025, is the place to be. Held in the heart of Lexington, North Carolina, this legendary event draws over 100,000 visitors each year for a full day of mouthwatering barbecue, lively entertainment, and Southern charm. The star of the show is Lexington-style barbecue—slow-cooked pork shoulder served with a tangy vinegar-based sauce and a side of slaw that locals swear by. Add in mountains of hush puppies, barbecue sandwiches, and sweet tea, and you’ve got a feast that’s worth the drive.
But the festival isn’t just about food—it’s a full-blown celebration. Main Street transforms into a bustling corridor of craft vendors, live music stages, and quirky attractions like the Hogway Speedway, where racing pigs steal the spotlight. Families can enjoy kid zones with rides and games, while art lovers can explore exhibits and cooking demos. The energy is electric, the aroma is irresistible, and the vibe is pure North Carolina.
Whether you’re a barbecue aficionado or just in it for the fun, the Lexington Barbecue Festival offers a one-of-a-kind experience that blends tradition, flavor, and community spirit. So grab your stretchy pants, bring your appetite, and get ready to fall in love with Lexington—one smoky bite at a time.
![]() Call Marie at 352-585-5259 Follow me on FaceBook Follow me on Instagram Click Here 📩🏡 If you want to chat about making a move, fill out this FORM and I can contact you with information! | I’m Marie! As a former teacher turned realtor, I help families relocate to Wake County with expert guidance on school zoning and the market. I’m all about making the process stress-free and enjoyable. When I’m not working, I’m probably fostering dogs, reading, or supporting local businesses! Follow me on social media for real estate tips, local updates, and cute pups! Check Out Our New Downloadable Home Buyer’s Guide! 👇 |

What’s Happening in Wake County?
Vanilla Icecream Recall
Publix Super Markets issued a voluntary recall of its Rich & Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream (half-gallon, UPC 41415 03043, “sell-by” date June 19, 2026 A) because the product may contain an undeclared egg allergen, as some tubs may erroneously contain French Vanilla ice cream. While stores in six states were affected by the recall, Virginia and North Carolina were explicitly noted as not impacted. For more details, you can view the official recall notice here.
New Greenway Extensions
Apex marked Great Trails State Day with the opening of two new greenway extensions, giving residents even more space to walk, run, and explore the town’s scenic trails.
The extensions connect popular areas, making it easier for families, joggers, and cyclists to enjoy the outdoors safely and conveniently. Town officials joined the community to cut the ribbon and celebrate the additions, highlighting Apex’s ongoing commitment to healthy, active living.
Whether you’re looking for a morning stroll or an evening ride, these new greenways add fresh paths for fun and fitness right in the heart of Apex.
Mark the Date
Get into the holiday spirit and mark your calendar for the St. Michael Holiday Craft Fair, happening on Saturday, December 7, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM at St. Michael Parish Hall, 123 Main Street, YourTown, ST. This festive annual event brings together over 50 local artisans and vendors offering unique handmade gifts, seasonal décor, baked goods, and much more — perfect for checking off your holiday shopping list. Enjoy a family-friendly atmosphere with raffle prizes, a kids’ craft corner, and delicious refreshments. Admission and parking are free, making it easy to spend the day browsing and celebrating the season. For event updates, vendor spotlights, and more, visit our website at www.stmichaelcraftfair.com. We look forward to seeing you there!
Making a Difference
Pop icon Taylor Swift has once again shown her heart of gold — this time by helping a North Carolina family facing every parent’s worst nightmare.
Two-year-old Lilah Smoot from North Carolina was diagnosed with a rare and aggressive form of stage 4 brain cancer after suffering a seizure at just 18 months old. Her family launched a GoFundMe to help with mounting medical bills from surgeries, chemotherapy, proton radiation, and stem cell therapy.
Then came an incredible surprise: Taylor Swift personally donated $100,000, leaving a heartfelt message that read, “Sending the biggest hug to my friend, Lilah! Love, Taylor.”
Lilah’s mom, Katelynn Smoot, had shared a TikTok video showing her daughter smiling and singing along to Swift’s music. “I’ve been listening to Taylor since pregnancy — she’s a little Swiftie,” Katelynn said. The story caught Swift’s attention, and her gift pushed the family past their fundraising goal.
Overwhelmed, Katelynn shared that Swift’s donation means they can now focus on what truly matters — helping Lilah heal. “This means we don’t have to worry about anything other than Lilah. Truly such a blessing,” she said.
Once again, Taylor Swift proves that kindness and compassion can strike the highest chord of all — love.

Milk Money Magic
In the small town of Ishpeming, Michigan, on a chilly February 3, 2025, 5-year-old Sunshine Oelfke noticed her classmate Mia struggling at lunch, unable to afford her daily milk carton. With wide-eyed empathy, Sunshine dashed home after school, smashed open her piggy bank, and stuffed $30 in loose change into a Ziploc bag. The next day, she marched into Gwinn Elementary School and handed it to the cafeteria staff, declaring, "This is for Mia's milk—and anyone else who needs it." Word spread like wildfire; Sunshine's mother, Danielle Oelfke, a local real estate agent, was so moved she emptied her own tip jar, donating $500 to cover the class's needs. But Sunshine dreamed bigger: she launched a GoFundMe titled "Milk for All Our Friends," aiming for $700 to fund the semester. By mid-March, strangers from across the U.S. had poured in over $12,000, ensuring free milk for hundreds of kids in three schools. Mia, once shy and sidelined, now beams with confidence, often sharing her snack with others. How it made a difference: What started as one girl's quiet gift ended childhood hunger worries for dozens, fostering a school-wide culture of sharing and boosting self-esteem for kids like Mia who felt invisible before.
A child's pure heart can spark a village's generosity, teaching us that even the tiniest gesture, when shared, nourishes more than just the body—it feeds the soul of a community.
"And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up."
— Galatians 6:9 (ESV)

Prime Time Living
55 Plus - The New Silver Standard
What is the best position to sleep after 50?
"Elegant baskets that set the tone." Add a touch of boho charm to your home! 🧺✨ Our boho baskets are perfect for storing, organizing, or styling any space.
From cozy corners to trendy shelves, there’s a basket for every vibe. Don’t miss out — shop our boho collection today and bring home that effortless, stylish touch! New baskets everyday!
Comprehensive List of Events in Wake County on October 21, 2025
Event Name | Date & Time | Location | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
North Carolina State Fair | Oct 21, Noon–10:00 p.m. | NC State Fairgrounds, 4285 Trinity Road, Raleigh, NC 27607 | Adults $13 (advance $11), youth (6–12) $7, seniors (65+) free on this day, children 5 and under free; rides extra ($30–$40 unlimited wristband) |
Homegrown Music Fest at NC State Fair | Oct 21, Various times from 11:00 a.m. onward | Waterfall Stage and other areas, NC State Fairgrounds, Raleigh | Included with fair admission |
Mudvayne with Vended and Static-X | Oct 21, 6:30 p.m. | Red Hat Amphitheater, 500 South McDowell Street, Raleigh, NC 27601 | From $59 |
Magdalena Bay: Imaginal Mystery Tour | Oct 21, 7:00 p.m. | The Ritz, 2820 Industrial Drive, Raleigh, NC 27609 | $20–$30 |
Matisyahu with Aaron Dugan | Oct 21, Doors 7:00 p.m., Show 8:00 p.m. | Lincoln Theatre, 126 E Cabarrus St, Raleigh, NC 27601 | $35.20 (general); VIP add-on $35 |
Wine Exhibits and Sampling at NC State Fair | Oct 21, Noon–10:00 p.m. | Expo Center or Village of Yesteryear, NC State Fairgrounds, Raleigh | Included with fair admission; tastings $5–$10 per sample |
Worthdale Fall Festival | Oct 21, 6:00 p.m.–8:00 p.m. | Worthdale Park, 1001 Cooper Road, Raleigh, NC 27610 | Free |
Mummy & Son Ball 2025 | Oct 21, 6:00 p.m.–8:00 p.m. | Harold D. Ritter Park, 301 Lochmere Dr West, Rotary Shelter, Cary, NC 27518 | $21 (resident) / $27 (non-resident) per parent/child pair |
Family Storytime (Green Road) | Oct 21, 10:30 a.m.–11:00 a.m. | Green Road Community Library, 4101 Green Road, Raleigh, NC 27604 | Free |
Family Storytime (Duraleigh Road) | Oct 21, 11:00 a.m.–11:30 a.m. | Duraleigh Road Community Library, 5800 Duraleigh Road, Raleigh, NC 27612 | Free |
K-5th Adventures | Oct 21, 4:30 p.m.–5:15 p.m. | Morrisville Community Library, 310 Town Hall Drive, Morrisville, NC 27560 | Free |
Teens: Fall Tiny Garden | Oct 21, 7:15 p.m. (1 hour) | Wendell Community Library, 207 South Hollybrook Road, Wendell, NC 27591 | Free |
Total Tot Time | Oct 21, 10:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. | W.D. Hill Recreation Center, 1308 Fayetteville St, Raleigh, NC 27603 | Free |
October StoryWalks® of Wake County Parks | Oct 21, All day (park hours) | Multiple Wake County parks (e.g., Lake Crabtree, Harris Lake) | Free |
FRoG Fall Scavenger Hunt | Oct 21, All day (self-paced) | Raleigh Greenways (various parks/trails) | Free |
Be sure to click below to review our “Events Calendar” with over 100 events happening today and this week!
Sometimes, email servers can cut off parts of the newsletter, making it tricky to enjoy the full experience. For the best reading experience and to catch all the details, click here to view the entire newsletter!
👇👇👇
If your business event, or restaurant, is not on the list and you would like to be added, contact us at [email protected]
“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.”










