Articles Tagged "Things to Do"

Enjoying art is a great way to momentarily escape the stresses of the day and experience something new. Art in the form of music or theater is important because it allows us to open our minds and connect to different perspectives and mindsets. Public art also helps add to the character, uniqueness, and identity of a city or public space.

Raleigh is such a unique place, and it's actually one of the best places in North Carolina to experience art and culture. Whether it's local performance venues or public street art, our culture and entertainment make this city such an enjoyable place to live. Here are 5 examples of ways our real estate agents experience art around Raleigh.

• Visit The North Carolina Museum of Art
  If you're looking to see some of the best artwork North Carolina has to offer, you'll definitely want to check out The North Carolina Museum of Art. The artwork spans 5,000 years, from historical pieces to modern-day works. The exhibits are constantly changing, so it's fun to stop back throughout the year. The museum sits on a 164-acre park, which features several outdoor trails that guide visitors through many creative installations. If you'd like to have this beautiful art museum in your own backyard, there are several nice Raleigh homes for sale nearby.
   
• Listen to The North Carolina Symphony
  Raleigh is home to the sixty-six-member North Carolina Symphony Orchestra, which performs throughout the year at the 1,700-seat Meymandi Concert Hall located within the Duke Energy Center for Performing Arts downtown. The symphony often hosts world-renowned guest musicians, and listening to their beautiful music is often a great way to spend a weekend evening.
  
  
• Take a Self-Guided Downtown Murals Tour
  Raleigh has so many murals and public art installations, and a self-guided walking tour is the best way to see them all. You'll see the Shaw University 150th Anniversary mural, the "Honest Abe" Lincoln automobile mural at the Lincoln Theatre, and the amazing John Prine mural on E. Martin Street. There are 10 stops on the downtown mural tour, so you're sure to get some post-worthy pictures.
  
  
• Enjoy The North Carolina Ballet
  Nothing is more uplifting than a classical ballet performance, so head on over to the Raleigh Memorial Auditorium for a performance from the Carolina Ballet. You can see many classic stories performed through ballet during the year, including the Nutcracker every December.
  
  
• Catch a Concert at Coastal Credit Union Music Park
  This outdoor amphitheater is a 77-acre complex that hosts many top artists and performers throughout the summer. Some of North Carolina's biggest concerts take place at Coastal Credit Union Music Park. Be sure to check the concert calendar, so you don't miss out on your favorite performer. 

The Raleigh art scene is even better when you call this area home. Contact us today for more information on local listings and tips for moving to the area.

The Triangle is known as one of the places where the future is made. Raleigh homes for sale have convenient access to a diverse economy with a vibrant tech scene. But the area is also steeped in plenty of rich history, reaching back through the entire American story.

Our real estate agents are always glad to show you everything Raleigh has to offer. Here are some of the historic homes many people choose to visit when they explore the Triangle:

• Borden Building – 820 Clay Street, Raleigh, NC 27605
  The Borden Building is among the only surviving remnants of what was once the Methodist Home for Children. Erected in 1900, the Borden Building itself acted as home to the superintendent. Later, it was converted to serve hundreds of children over the years. Since its purchase by the City of Raleigh in 1982, it and adjoining Fred Fletcher Park have been an oasis of tranquility in the midst of an urban setting.
  
  
• Heck-Andrews House – 309 North Blount Street, Raleigh, NC 27601
  The Heck-Andrews House has been praised by historians as one of the finest surviving examples of Second Empire architecture. At the crossroads of many other key sites, including the lieutenant governor's office, it was completed in 1872 and occupied for more than a century as a private residence. It was vacant until 2014, the year of a major renovation, and is now open to public visitors.
  
  
• Haywood Hall House and Gardens – 211 N. Bern Place, Raleigh, NC 27601
  Haywood Hall House and Gardens is a testament to the life of John Haywood, the first elected treasurer of North Carolina. A frame house in the prominent Federal style, it is now the oldest house on an original site anywhere within Raleigh's city limits. It has a unique collection of family portraits, a variety of original furniture, and a permanent collection of antique dolls. Admission is always free.
  
  
• Joel Lane Museum House – 160 South Saint Mary's Street, Raleigh, NC 27603
  The Joel Lane Museum House is noteworthy as the oldest home within Wake County: It dates back to 1769. The spot is heralded as the "Birthplace of North Carolina's Capital" thanks to a fateful agreement by Joel Lane to sell 1,000 acres to the state for the construction of official buildings and infrastructure. Today, the site offers two other historic buildings and a gift shop.
  
  
• L.L. Polk House – 537 North Blount Street, Raleigh, NC 27604-1119
  L.L. Polk House features a style that has been called "gingerbread Gothic." Dating to 1890, it was built by one of the most prominent men in the state, a former part-owner of the Raleigh News and Observer. Tours are available by appointment only and will shed light on the life of Col. L.L. Polk as well as the storied history of the property itself.
  
  
• North Carolina Executive Mansion – 200 North Blount Street, Raleigh, NC 27601
  North Carolina Executive Mansion sits just steps from the Heck-Andrews house listed above. Built from local materials, it has been the official home of North Carolina's governors since 1891. It was once lauded by President Franklin D. Roosevelt as "the most beautiful governor's residence interior" in the nation. Tour reservations must be made at least two weeks in advance.

Ready to start touring homes for sale in the area? Contact us today.

You could call it a small city, or you could call it North Carolina's largest small town. Whatever you choose to call it, Cary is one of the most charming, vibrant communities in the Triangle. 

Our real estate agents always love getting to spend some time in Cary, and if you're in the area looking at Raleigh homes for sale, we highly recommend you do the same! These are some of our favorite spots for a fun day in Cary, NC.

• BREW Coffee Bar - 122 E Chatham St, Cary, NC 27511
  Every great day starts with a great cup of coffee, and BREW Coffee Bar is the best place to get one in Cary. They serve an ever-changing selection of gourmet coffee from around the world. BREW Coffee Bar is within walking distance of these Cary homes for sale and many other local attractions, making it a great place to begin your day in Cary.
  
  
• Cary Downtown Farmers Market - 135 W Chatham St, Cary, NC 27511
  If you have the good fortune to be in town on a Saturday, be sure to check out the Cary Downtown Farmers Market. It's much more than a place to buy produce (although it definitely is a great place to buy produce). You'll also find everything from local honey and handmade soap to crafty jewelry and live plants. The farmers market is open every Saturday year-round, from 8 am until noon, and all the vendors are local. 
  
  
• 'All Aboard' Mural - 122 W Chatham St, Cary, NC 27511
  Downtown Cary is home to a growing collection of murals and street art. The 'All Aboard' Mural (a nod to the historic 1871 train that once frequented the city) is a favorite. It's the work of Triangle-area mural artist Sean Kernick and makes for a very Instagram-worthy photo-op in Cary. 
  
  
• Pizzeria Faulisi - 215 E Chatham St, Cary, NC 27511
  Hungry? Grab lunch at Pizzeria Faulisi! Their wood-fired Neapolitan pizza is the best in town, and they have beautiful indoor and outdoor seating areas. Pizzeria Faulisi is known for using the freshest seasonal ingredients, and they have a great wine and beer menu too. 
  
  
• Page-Walker Arts and History Center - 119 Ambassador Loop, Cary, NC 27513
  Housed in a former hotel built in 1868, the Page-Walker Arts and History Center offers a fascinating opportunity to learn more about Cary's storied past. The historic building is open to walking tours and displays educational exhibits and the work of modern local and regional artists.
  
  
• Fred G. Bond Metro Park - 801 High House Rd, Cary, NC 27513
  Less than 10 minutes from downtown Cary, Fred G. Bond Metro Park is the city's largest park, spanning 310 acres. The park features 4.2 miles of trails and a lake that's popular for fishing and kayaking. It's a great place for a walk, a picnic, or to simply enjoy a lovely green space a stone's throw from the city.

Contact us today to learn more about life in the Triangle, and be sure to ask our real estate agents about finding your dream home in Cary and the surrounding areas. 

Live theater is alive and well in the Triangle! Raleigh, Durham, and the surrounding area are home to a wealth of art and culture. It's a great place to call home if you enjoy theater and the performing arts, and our real estate agents are excited to share some of their favorite performance venues in the area.

• A.J. Fletcher Opera Theater - 2 E South St, Raleigh, NC 27601
  Some of the most exciting theater events in the Triangle happen at the A.J. Fletcher Opera Theater at Duke Energy Center for the Performing Arts. This 600-seat theater is Raleigh's epicenter for opera and dance and regularly hosts productions by the Carolina Ballet. Located just minutes from these Raleigh homes for sale, the A.J. Fletcher Opera Theater is just the right size for a powerful, intimate performance. 
  
  
• Cary Academy Fine & Performing Arts Center - 1500 N Harrison Ave, Cary, NC 27513
  Established in 1997, Cary Academy is an independent college-preparatory secondary school located in the beautiful city of Cary, North Carolina. The school's Fine & Performing Arts Center is known throughout the region for producing exceptional theater and dance productions rooted in their students' ensemble ethic. Some of the best young actors around get their start here! The Arts Center is part of a 65-acre campus, which is convenient to many Cary homes for sale.
  
  
• Burning Coal Theater Company - 224 Polk St, Raleigh, NC 27604
  With a reputation for producing gritty, explosive takes on classic plays, Burning Coal Theater Company is Raleigh's leading professional not-for-profit theater. Burning Coal Theater Company attracts some of the best actors from Raleigh and all over the country and creates thrilling performances in a unique 175-seat space. Be sure to check their website to learn more about upcoming shows!
  
  
• Garner Performing Arts Center - 742 W Garner Rd, Garner, NC 27529
  A beautiful 471-seat auditorium inside of the former Garner High School, the Garner Performing Arts Center is a great place to attend (or host) a live theater event. Their renovated, state-of-the-art stage has hosted countless plays, musicals, and concerts, including Broadway Voices, the Towne Players of Garner, and the "It's Showtime!" series. The theater is located a stone's throw from these Garner homes for sale. 
  
  
• Halle Cultural Arts Center - 237 N Salem St, Apex, NC 27502
  The Halle Cultural Arts Center is a versatile space that hosts events of all kinds. From concerts and showcase performances to community events and visual arts presentations, this is a major hub for local arts and culture. It also hosts the Apex farmers market and weekly free movies. Just minutes from these Apex homes for sale, the Halle Cultural Arts Center is nestled in the charming heart of downtown Apex, North Carolina. 
  
  
• The Carolina Theatre - 309 W Morgan St, Durham, NC 27701
  You never know what you'll see at the Carolina Theatre. It could be a play or a musical. It could be a rock concert or a comedy showcase. It could be a classic film or the latest blockbuster. This multi-use performing arts and cinema complex offers a little bit of everything, and it's been a staple downtown Durham since 1926. The Carolina Theatre always offers something fresh and exciting, a short drive from many Durham homes for sale.

Contact us today to learn more about arts and culture in the Triangle area, and be sure to ask our team about finding your dream home in Raleigh, Durham, and the surrounding areas!

Bubble tea (sometimes called boba tea) is a trendy, colorful, and delicious drink made from brewed tea and tapioca pearls. Whether you're a bubble tea connoisseur or have never tried this treat, these bubble tea shops located in and around Raleigh are ready to take your order.

1. Brecotea - 1144 Kildaire Farm Road, Cary, NC 27511
   
   Brecotea takes particular pride in the caliber of the ingredients they use when crafting their many menu items. Customers can choose from a variety of bubble teas made with fresh fruit, real milk, and other high-quality organic ingredients. It's a great place to pick up some artisan goods when you're in the neighborhood attending viewings of our Cary homes for sale.
   
   
2. Quickly Tea House - 2604A Hillsborough Road, Durham, NC 27705
   
   Quickly Tea House is a well-known global brand whose mission is to bring Taiwanese-style bubble tea to the world. Their Durham location is close to many of our Durham homes for sale and is a hotspot for many local residents, particularly in the summer months. 
   
   A full range of beverages is available here, including regular bubble teas, milk teas (made with a soy-based creamer), slushes, and snows (creamier versions of the slushes). Special toppings add a little flair to every drink, and customers can even order snacks like egg rolls, waffle fries, popcorn chicken, and gyoza for an extra treat.
   
   
3. Bumble Tea - 3221 Avent Ferry Road, Raleigh, NC 27606
   
   As soon as you see Bumble Tea's smiling honeybee mascot, you know you're in for a good time. This cheery shop is within easy reach of many Raleigh homes for sale and offers a sweet-themed interior complete with hexagon-shaped tables for enjoying your purchases. 
   
   Bumble Tea serves both milk teas (in flavors like matcha, jasmine, and espresso and fruit teas (in flavors like strawberry-lemon, mango, and passionfruit). They also have a good selection of fruit smoothies available for more health-conscious patrons. If you're in the mood for dessert, you can try their adorable Bumble Waffle, a delicious treat shaped to look like the head of a bee. 
   
   
4. Beans & Bubbles - 3607 Falls River Avenue, Suite 125, Raleigh, NC 27614
   
   Beans & Bubbles stands out on this list for the sheer customizability of their menu. Each of their bubble tea drinks starts with a base of either black tea, green tea, or brewed coffee. Once you've chosen which one you want, staff members add your choice of over 50 flavors of syrup to the mix. Finally, the drink is topped off with either chewy tapioca, coffee jelly, or fruit-flavored bubbles.
   
   
5. MooMooCha - 1350 5th Avenue, Suite 250, Garner, NC 27529
   
   MooMooCha is a newly rebranded bubble tea shop in the same neighborhood as many of our Garner homes for sale. The star item on their menu is the Classic MooMooCha tea, which showcases deep yet mellow brown sugar flavors.
   
   Aside from this, the shop offers nearly two dozen other varieties of milk tea and fruit tea combined. Patrons can also sip on a selection of coffee, lattes, smoothies, slushes, lemonades, and ciders or snack on their signature egg puff ice cream treat. Many of MooMooCha's drinks can be made with non-dairy ingredients upon request, making this a popular spot for people following a vegan diet.

This excellent assortment of bubble tea shops is far from the only thing to love about the Raleigh area. Contact us today and let our real estate agents show you some of the many homes we have available in this thriving community. 

Looking for ways to keep your kids happily occupied while they're continuing to learn this summer in Raleigh? The area has plenty of places where you can spend the day with them or enroll them in a fun summer program.

Our real estate agents suggest checking out the following places where your kids can learn and have fun this summer in Raleigh:

1. The CoderSchool – Leesville Towne Center, 13200 Strickland Rd. #116, Raleigh, NC 27613 
   Coding has become a popular interest for kids in the past few years, and it's easy to see why. Without coders, we wouldn't have computer software, apps, and websites that we access countless times a day. The CoderSchool, located close to Raleigh homes for sale, offers summer camps for kids who have experience in coding and those who don't. Camps include Game Development – Arcade, Roblox Remix, and Mobile Madness. In-person and online camps are available, with some designed for kids age 7-10 and those aged 10 and up.
   
   
2. My Gym Raleigh – 8801 Lead Mine Rd. Suite 117, Raleigh, NC 27615  
   My Gym Raleigh is all about letting kids have fun while learning in a fun, physically engaging environment. As kids are active and having fun, they gain confidence that can carry over into other activities. In addition to their regular programs, My Gym Raleigh offers summer camps running from June through August, with a discount if you enroll a sibling. Camp themes change weekly and include Circus, Superheroes, Space, Safari, and Olympics.
   
   
3. Engineering for Kids – 110 Lattner Ct. Suite #104, Morrisville, NC 27560
   Engineering for Kids, located around the corner from Morrisville homes for sale, builds on what kids are already learning in their school curriculum in a fun way. The company emphasizes the Engineering Design Process to help kids with their decision-making and critical-thinking skills and their creativity and teamwork. Choose a virtual or in-person summer program for your kids, including one on Esports that lets them learn about the fundamentals and mechanics of their favorite games as well as how everything in the game relates to the real world through physics and other disciplines.
   
   
4. Museum of Life + Science – 433 W. Murray Ave., Durham, NC 27704 
   Whether you're looking for a fun, educational place to spend the day with your child or you're looking for a summer camp with these same benefits, you'll find it at the Museum of Life + Science. Located near Durham homes for sale, the museum is filled with 84 acres of open-ended science and nature experiences, so your kids will have plenty to do and see. Take them to Hideaway Woods, where they can explore a two-acre nature playscape, complete with treehouses, a flowing streambed, and more. And don't forget the Butterfly House, where hundreds of butterflies fly in a 350-foot-tall glass conservatory where you can interact with them.
   
   
5. Piedmont Wildlife Center – 364 Leigh Farm Rd., Durham, NC 27707
   Piedmont Wildlife Center is dedicated to providing educational experiences for kids and adults while helping them build a strong connection to nature. Take the kids to meet the Center's owl ambassadors, go on a nature walk, learn about plants, or connect with nature in other ways. You can also enroll them in a summer camp for youth or teens, including a swamp safari or backpacking trip.

Contact us to learn more about Raleigh's vast educational opportunities for kids. And if you'd like to buy or sell a home in the area, our real estate professionals can help. 

Memorial Day weekend signals the unofficial start of summer! Plan a weekend getaway near the Triangle to these destinations that are only a short drive away.

1. Cliffs of the Neuse State Park - 240 Park Entrance Rd., Seven Springs, NC 28578
   There's no secret about the main attraction at Cliffs of the Nuese State Park. The 350 Yard Trail leads to the majestic overlook that towers 90 feet above the Neuse River. In addition to four other hiking trails, the pet-friendly park features an 11-acre swimming lake with a sandy beach and diving platform. With 30 picnic tables and 10 grills, there's plenty of space to enjoy a BBQ. Family and group campsites are available, along with camper cabins, if you want to stay the whole weekend. Park hours are 7 a.m. – 9 p.m. daily and admission is free. Swimming fees are $6 for adults and $4 for kids ages 3-12.
   
   
2. Old Edwards Inn and Spa - 445 Main St., Highlands, NC 28741
   If R&R is your idea of the perfect holiday weekend, your dream awaits you at Old Edwards Inn and Spa. Indulge in total pampering at the full-service spa, shop till you drop at the fashionable boutiques within walking distance, and dine on an upscale farm-to-table meal at Madison's. Just in case you feel the need to get up and move, there is an onsite fitness center along with a golf course and tennis courts. Several different styles of guest rooms and cottages accommodate any needs. Visit the website for rates and reservations.
   
   
3. Blackbeard's Lodge – 111 Back Rd., Ocracoke, NC 27960
   When you stay at a place with an address of, "Back Road," you know you're really getting away from it all. Blackbeard's Lodge, located on the secluded barrier island of Ocracoke, is a delightful blend of modern amenities and historic charm. Fishing, boating, and sightseeing are just minutes away. For those who prefer more laid-back activities, the lodge has a swimming pool and game room with a pool table, foosball, and air hockey, along with an arcade and board games. Pet-friendly rooms are available. Visit the website for rates and reservations.
   
   
4. Pisgah National Forest – 1001 Pisgah Hwy., Pisgah Forest, NC 28768
   Want to feel on top of the world, literally and figuratively? Hike Looking Glass Rock at Pisgah National Forest for dazzling 360-degree views that will leave you awestruck. If that's a little more challenging than what you're looking for, the 500,000-acre forest includes more moderate trails, including Graveyard Fields with its pair of waterfalls. Pet-friendly Pisgah National Forest is open 24/7 and admission is free.
   
   
5. Carowinds – 14523 Carowinds Blvd., Charlotte, NC 28273
   Thrill-seekers of all ages know Memorial Day weekend as the opening of Carowinds, a thrilling amusement park just over two hours away from Raleigh homes for sale. More than 2 million people visit Carowinds each year for attractions such as Fury 325, North America's longest roller coaster. The 1.25-mile ride, lasting approximately 3.25 minutes, crosses North and South Carolina state lines. When it's time for a break, cool off at Carolina Harbor Water Park, which is included in the price of admission. Visit the website for schedules and ticket prices.

Every day's a holiday when you live in the Triangle. And our real estate agents can help make that a reality! Contact us at Howard Perry and Walston for all your real estate needs.

There are so many things to love about living in the Raleigh area! Not only are there many beautiful Raleigh homes for sale right now, but there are also excellent dining and entertainment options, great schools, and a rich culture and history. 

If you love older homes, you'll definitely want to explore some of the designated historic districts in and around Raleigh's downtown area. Some of the historic houses here are open to the public, while others remain private homes. Either way, the area offers excellent opportunities for an afternoon sightseeing tour. Here are a few you'll want to check out. 

Capitol Area Historic District

Located right in the center of Raleigh, the Capitol Area Historic District is home to the Capitol building, the State Supreme Court, and two churches that date back to the mid-19th century. 

You'll also find numerous historic monuments and Haywood Hall, the oldest house in Raleigh. It was built in 1799 and features stunning gardens that make it a popular spot for weddings and events. 

Boylan Heights

One of Raleigh's oldest suburban areas, today, it's just at the edge of Raleigh's downtown. This hilly, wooded area features a variety of lovely old homes, many of which have been revitalized and are now single-family residences. 

Moore Square Historic District

While you won't find any houses in the Moore Square Historic District, but it is home to two beautiful parks that have been a part of the city since 1792. It's also the location of the city's giant copper acorn, a half-ton sculpture in the park that makes for a great photo-opp. While you're there, make sure you rub it for good luck!

The area is also home to City Market, which was originally established in 1914. In the 1920s, it was knowns as "Black Main Street." Today, revitalization efforts have resulted in a redevelopment of City Market and a return to activity in the district. 

Oakwood Historic District

In the post-Civil War era, Oakwood was created as a rural neighborhood that was quite a hike into town. Today, it's essentially in Raleigh's downtown. However, many of the area's Victorian-style homes still look how they did back then. 

Although the homes were neglected for some time, the area underwent a restoration in the 1970s. It became Raleigh's first designated historic district in 1947. Today it's one of the area's loveliest neighborhoods. 

Five Points Neighborhoods 

Another interesting and eclectic area, the Five Points Neighborhoods, is a short drive from downtown, conveniently located near the interstate, and is well-known for its block of great restaurants and bars. 

It was developed in the 1920s as a series of planned communities designed to give residents a break from the hectic urban life. The Five Points area comprises several neighborhoods, including Vanguard Park, Bloomsbury, Roanoke Park, and Hayes Barton, which was once considered one of the area's most desirable neighborhoods. 

Today, Five Points is very popular among young, first-time homebuyers. The housing styles here vary greatly, from 1920s bungalow-style houses to larger, more ornate homes. This hodge-podge of home sizes and styles only serves to make the area even more unique. 

Explore Raleigh-Area Homes Today!

If you're looking for a beautiful home in or around Raleigh, we're here to help. Our real estate agents would love to show you around and help you find your dream home. Contact us today to schedule an appointment. 

With the holiday season in full swing, it's time to select a Christmas tree for your home. A real Christmas tree is a charming option that instantly lends a festive touch to your space. Our real estate agents know that a home with gorgeous decorations appeals to potential buyers. 

Not only does a real Christmas tree fill your home with the seasonal smell of pine, but it helps support the local businesses who grew, transported, and sold the tree. Here are some guidelines to follow to help you pick the best Christmas tree for your home. 

1. Know Your Options
   There are a few different varieties of trees commonly sold as Christmas trees. The Balsam Fir is a popular choice in many households; this variety is the most fragrant alternative, and it only sheds a small number of its needles. If you have lots of space and want a full Christmas tree, consider a Douglas Fir. The Douglas Fir boasts a lovely pyramid shape and soft needles. Make sure that you're ultra committed to watering your tree, as the Douglas Fir requires more water. Maybe you like to add a lot of ornaments to your tree. The Frasier Fir is preferred for it's stiff, strong branches capable of holding a tree full of decorations. If a green tree doesn't quite suit your aesthetics, check out the Colorado Blue Spruce. Its needles are a bluish-silvery hue and look fantastic in a room adorned with winter-themed decor. The Eastern White Pine is a great choice if you're sensitive to smells and prefer a tree with minimal fragrance. However, it also has soft needles that aren't capable of supporting many ornaments and decorations.

2. Measure the Space Where You Plan to Put the Tree
   Your next step is to measure the space where you plan to set up the tree. When choosing your tree's home, make sure that it's away from any heat sources (like a radiator or open window) or open flames (such as a fireplace or candle display). Once you've selected your spot, measure the height (leaving room at the bottom for the tree holder and at the top for the tree topper), width, and depth. Jot these measurements down and take them with you so you can ensure that any potential trees are a suitable size. If you're adding your home to the inventory of Raleigh homes for sale, make sure that you don't overcrowd the space. Having too much decor or furnishings in one area will actually make the room appear small. 

3. Understand What to Look for at the Tree Lot
   Besides meeting your preferences for size and variety, there are some other requirements your tree should meet. Look for a tree with bright, shiny needles; steer clear of trees that have brown, dull needles. Give the branches a shake. If a lot of needles fall off, move onto the next tree. Take a few of the needles in your hands and crush them. They should have a fragrant, fresh smell. 

4. Keep Your Tree Hydrated
   Regardless of which type of Christmas tree you choose, ample hydration will ensure that it looks amazing the entire season. Once you get your tree home, give it plenty of water, and check the water frequently. Most trees are a little dehydrated when you get them home and will initially use more water until they can stabilize their water levels. 

Want a home with more space for holiday decorations? Contact us today to explore your options!

Living in Raleigh means that there will always be new experiences to explore waiting close to your front door, in a city that is constantly growing. This year has seen quite a few exciting new businesses open in the city, offering food and fun for family members of all ages. There are new restaurants with healthy, locally sourced ingredients, a new coffee shop bringing flavors from around the world to Raleigh, and new studios where you can learn to create your own art. Our real estate agents have the exciting details on 5 of the great new businesses to open in Raleigh this year.

1. Origin Hotel Raleigh – 603 W Morgan St., Raleigh, NC 27603

   Whether you're in town to shop for Raleigh homes for sale or already a resident of the city, you're sure to find something to love on the menu when you visit the new restaurant at Origin Hotel Raleigh. The menu offers a diverse selection of plant-based meals with fresh ingredients sourced from local farms and protein-based meals with sustainably sourced meat. Origin Hotel Raleigh is open every day for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, along with brunch on weekends.

2. Iris Coffee Lab & Cafe – 725 Tucker St., Raleigh, NC 27603

   For delicious coffee and so much more, be sure to check out the new experience at Iris Coffee Lab & Cafe. This is so much more than your average coffee shop, with a selection of expertly brewed coffee, espresso, and cold brew that you can enjoy with your breakfast or lunch. And it's not just about the coffee! This shop also stocks a lovely selection of teas, which have been aged to perfection and are ready for you to enjoy hot or cold.

3. Wine & Design – 510 W Martin St., Raleigh, NC 27601

   Looking for a fun, fresh way to relax and unwind with your favorite people? An art class at Wine & Design is just the thing! You can book a private party, where you'll enjoy a two-hour class directed by a local artist and create a unique piece of art to bring home. Wine & Design also has regularly scheduled classes, open to anyone, so you don't have to plan a party to enjoy some painting. There are even classes for painting with your pet and online classes that allow you to create art in your own home.

4. Bean Sprouts – 201 E Hargett St., Raleigh, NC 27601

   When you're in the mood for a fun family outing and a healthy meal, you'll love visiting the award-winning Bean Sprouts restaurant. This unique, kid-focused dining spot is located in the Marbles Kids Museum, so it's the perfect place to enjoy a break during your visit. Kids love all of the unique flavors on the menu, and parents are sure to love that everything is made with fresh, healthy, organic ingredients.

5. Sugar & Spice Kitchen – 227 Fayetteville St., Raleigh, NC 27601

   In the mood to indulge your sweet tooth? Sugar & Spice Kitchen is a new dessert destination that fuses the flavors of India and North Carolina to create a menu of sweet treats that you won't find anywhere else. This family-run bakery offers a delectable collection of handmade pies, jams, and cakes, all created with love in Raleigh.

Ready to find your next home in a city that is always evolving to provide new experiences for your family to enjoy? Our team is here to help. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Raleigh, NC area.

There's never a bad day to enjoy delicious Italian food! With World Pasta Day right around the corner, now is a great time to start exploring some of the amazing Italian restaurants in the area.

Our REALTORS® love trying out local hot spots! 

1. Southern Pasta Company: 6621 Falls of Neuse Rd., Raleigh, NC 27615
   Can't get away for a romantic dinner? A visit to The Southern Pasta Company is a great way to enjoy restaurant food at home! They offer fresh, chef-prepared dinners in aluminum baking trays that are ready for you to pop in the oven. They're made with handmade pasta, top-quality meats and cheeses, and fresh produce from nearby farms. This is a delicious and convenient alternative to fast food that will taste so much better. You can choose from a variety of ravioli, kinds of pasta, and sauces, creating your perfect meal. In addition to all the classics, you can also find delicious non-traditional options like pumpkin ravioli and pecan & sage pesto sauce. They also offer a variety of Italian entrees, lasagna, mac and cheese, and more. 

2. Cafe Luna: 136 East Hargett St., Raleigh, NC 27601
   Located in downtown Raleigh, Cafe Luna offers Italian Cuisine with a Tuscan flair. The menu features a wide variety of pasta dishes with separate dine-in and pick-up menus. If you can get out during the week, you'll want to check out their $20 three-course mid-week menu. It includes a salad, entree, and dessert. There are also amazing $20 wine deals!

3. Assaggio's Italian Restaurant: 3501 Millbrook Rd., Raleigh, NC 27613
   After a busy day of running around looking at Raleigh homes for sale, you might not feel like doing anything. This is a great time to pop into Assaggio's Italian Restaurant for a tasty takeout meal. They have tons of pasta options, including lobster ravioli, pasta primavera, baked ziti, fettuccine alfredo, baked manicotti, and more! With plenty of other options, including amazing pizza, calzones, stromboli, and hot subs, you're sure to find something on the menu to please everyone. 

4. Melina's Fresh Pasta: 2717 Chapel Hill Rd., Durham, NC 27707
   If you've been looking at Durham homes for sale, you'll definitely want to acquaint yourself with Melina's Fresh Pasta. This is another great option for picking up dinner when you're busy and still want to enjoy an amazing meal. Options include a variety of fresh-made sauces and baked meals. The menu changes frequently, so you'll want to follow them on Facebook and check out their page before you go. 

5. 411 West: 411 West Franklin St., Chapel Hill, NC 27516
   Next time you're in the area looking at Chapel Hill homes for sale, plan to take a break and visit 411 West. This unique restaurant is located right in the heart of West Franklin. The menu combines Italian and Mediterranean dishes with a healthy California twist. You'll love the creative pasta dishes that are made fresh on-site. Some of our favorites include the Lemon Linguine with shrimp and scallops and the Basil Pesto with zucchini, squash, spinach, arugula, tomato, and goat cheese. Make sure you save room for dessert! 

No matter what kind of food you enjoy, there are excellent dining options in the Raleigh/Durham/Chapel Hill area. This is just one of the many things to love about living here. Want to explore some of the beautiful homes in the area? We can help. Contact us today to get started! 

October is officially "Adopt a Shelter Dog Month", and with so many people spending more time at home this year, there couldn't be a better time to welcome a new furry friend into your family. There are several great dog shelters in and around the Triangle and dozens of new pets that need to be adopted today. Looking to add a shelter dog to your family? Our REALTORS® went ahead and pulled together a list of options:

1. Saving Grace Animals For Adoption - 13400 Old Creedmoor Rd., Wake Forest, NC 27587
   A wide selection of breeds of all ages, Saving Grace has dozens of loving pups in need of a home. In addition to adoption services, they also offer a temporary foster program and a "host a dog weekend" service. There is an adoption fee, which covers vaccinations, spay/neuter, parasite prevention, and other services. While you're in the area, there are several great Wake Forest homes for sale with beautiful backyards for your new dog to run and play.
2. Cause For Paws - 1634 S. Saunders St., Raleigh, NC 27603
   Cause for Paws has a number of cats and dogs available for adoption. While cats are housed at their two Raleigh thrift stores, dogs are actually kept at foster homes throughout the Triangle, so it's usually best to call ahead in order to schedule a visit with a particular dog. While you're in town, schedule an appointment to visit one of these Raleigh homes for sale.
3. Second Chance Pet Adoptions - 6003 Chapel Hill Rd. #133, Raleigh, NC 27607
   Helping dogs find good homes in the Triangle area since 1987, Second Chance Pet Adoptions has a wide range of dogs that need homes today. They charge a $300 adoption fee that covers about $500 worth of veterinary care. Applications are available on their website along with information about their dogs available for adoption.
4. Wake County Animal Center - 820 Beacon Lake Dr., Raleigh, NC 27610
   Owned and operated by the county, The Wake County Animal Center takes in thousands of strays and abandoned pets every year, and partners with fosters and volunteers to help find them a loving home. Dog adoption fees are only $95. While they don't provide spay/neuter services, they do make recommendations for reputable local veterinary clinics.
5. Orange County Animal Services - 1601 Eubanks Rd., Chapel Hill, NC 27516
   Not only does Orange County Animal Services provide intake services for abandoned animals, but they also offer spay/neuter programs and manage pet licensing for the county. Additionally, they take on the responsibility of enforcing animal cruelty laws across the county. The adoption fee for a dog is $125 and the fee for a puppy is $175, and the fees include a wide range of veterinary services including health screening, vaccinations, and microchipping. After you pick-up, your new pup, be sure to cruise by these Chapel Hill homes for sale.

Getting a new pet is a big decision! In return for opening up your home to them, dogs will provide you with long term companionship, fun, and they may even help you to reduce stress. For more recommendations on local pet shelters in the Triangle, contact us today.

It's no secret that North Carolina has some of the best food in the country, but many residents of the Triangle are surprised to discover just how many times Raleigh's restaurants have been featured on TV. From local news to international programs on Food Network and Travel Channel, our favorite places to dine are given primetime slots on television. Next time you're headed out to eat, our real estate agents encourage you to check out these Raleigh restaurants that have been featured on TV.

1. The Roast Grill – 7 S. West St., Raleigh, NC 27603 
   As Seen On Man v. Food
   
   Opened in 1940, The Roast Grill has been serving up hot dogs on the same grill they used 80 years ago. When Man v. Food's Adam Richman came to town, Raleigh residents knew he'd be taking on the Hot Dogger Eating Challenge. Richman dominated the challenge, downing 17 hot dogs, a half-pint of mustard, and a pint of chili sauce, which caused the challenge to be renamed as the Man v. Food Hot Dog Challenge. Whether you're going in to take the challenge or a single dog, don't ask for ketchup!
   
   
2. The Pit – 328 W. Davie St., Raleigh, NC 27601
   As Seen On Throwdown with Bobby Flay
   
   The Pit serves up the tastiest pork this side of the Smoky Mountains, but when celebrity chef Bobby Flay came to town, things got messy. Thankfully, the pitmaster defeated the grill master, winning a rib challenge on Throwdown with Bobby Flay. The Pit has been featured time and time again on other shows like Chopped, Man v. Food, and The Today Show, which is all the more reason to see what all the buzz is about. Grab a plateful of barbeque, a fine bourbon whiskey, and taste why The Pit just can't stay out of the limelight.
   
   
3. Original Flying Burrito – 4800 Grove Barton Rd., Raleigh, NC 27613
   As Seen On Food Paradise
   
   The Southwest meets the Southeast at Original Flying Burrito, which was featured on an episode of Food Paradise's episode "Burrito Paradise." To taste what you've seen on TV, order up the Carolina Burrito. Made fresh from scratch each day, the delicious sauces, salsas, and other sweet and savory menu items are sure to make your mouth water. They even have a separate vegan menu for those who prefer their burrito meat and dairy-free.
   
   
4. Azurelise – 702 Boylan Ave., Raleigh, NC 27605
   As Seen On Road Tasted with the Neelys
   
   With so much savory barbeque in town, Azurelise offers a sweet alternative. While they received great reviews on Road Tasted with the Neelys, Azurelise's chocolate truffles let their flavor do the talking. The minute you let of one, these delectable chocolates melt on your tongue, you'll know why Azurelise is a standout confectioner in the city. Order up at least two batches; you'll likely devour the first on the car ride home!

If you thought Raleigh's restaurant scene was impressive, wait until you see our housing market! Contact us today to begin touring the best Raleigh homes for sale.

Let's face it. Not everyone is a morning person! One thing that makes mornings more bearable is the fantastic brunch options we have in the Triangle area. Our real estate agents love the local dining scene, and that includes frequenting brunch spots in the area. Looking for a delicious start to your morning? Be sure to check out the following local restaurants for your next morning meal!  

1. Parkside Restaurant – 301 W. Martin St., Raleigh, NC 27601
   Located in the Warehouse District near some of our most popular Raleigh homes for sale, Parkside wants to show you the hospitality that's existed in this historic area for over a century. One of their brunch staples is a fried pork chop with cheddar waffle. This meaty meal is topped with powdered sugar, syrup, and a peach bourbon glaze. Perfect for those who love sweet and savory combinations! 
   
   
2. Big C Waffles – 2110 Allendown Dr., Durham, NC 27713
   After browsing Durham homes for sale, pull up or park at Big C Waffles to enjoy some of Uncle Wayne's Chicken and Granny-B Kool-Aid. Standard blueberry waffles and pecan waffles are available, but what sets this menu apart is the interesting offerings like the Donut Waffle, Red Velvet Waffle, Bacon Egg N Cheese Waffle, and the Thin Mint Waffle. That's right – it's Girl Scout Cookie season every day at Big C Waffles.
   
   
3. Famous Toastery – 316 Colonades Way #201C, Cary, NC 27518
   There's a reason why Famous Toastery is one of the premier family restaurants near our Cary homes for sale. For over a decade, they've exceeded customer expectations in both service and taste. Their impressive menu offers classic brunch fare to start your morning. Order options like the breakfast quesadilla, stuffed French toast, and avocado toast. If eggs benedict is your brunch item of choice, their extensive list of options is sure to impress! Options include avocado benedict, Cali benedict, classic benedict, and more. Come back week after week to try them all.
   
   
4. The Mayton Inn – 301 S. Academy St., Cary, NC 27511
   If you're looking to pamper yourself, brunch at The Mayton Inn before a spa day is a perfect way to relax. Let them cook you up a fine plate of buttermilk fried chicken and waffles, topped with warm honey, with a freshly brewed cup of iced coffee. You can then relax in the spa with your taste buds satisfied and enjoy a perfect start to your day. 
   
   
5. Guglhupf Bakery, Cafe & Biergarten – 2706 Durham-Chapel Hill Blvd., Durham, NC 27707
   A German bakery meets Biergarten at this can't miss brunch spot! Local ingredients are used to create the tasty brunch cuisine with traditional southern German roots. Recently, their cafe has re-opened with expanded patio dining for you to enjoy your brunch outside. Be sure to stop by, check out their rotating menu, and order a Danish (or two). 

Looking for a home with a kitchen for you to make brunch every Saturday morning? We can help! Contact us today to tour our best homes for sale around Raleigh, Cary, and Durham.

The hot sun is quickly burning away our summer days but there's still time for you to enjoy the warm weather. With many vacations and road trips put on hold, now is the perfect time to social distance responsibly by camping in North Carolina's great outdoors. Our estate agents encourage you to check out these campgrounds around Raleigh.

1. Popular Point Campground – 558 Beaver Creek Rd., Apex, NC 27502
   Spend only a second at Jordan Lake and you'll see why it's one of the most popular camping areas in the state. The aptly named Popular Point Campground has nearly 600 campsites with more than half of them outfitted with electric hookups. Regardless if you're camping with an RV or tent, your site will include a picnic table, grill, and waste receptacle. While you're there, feel free to fish, swim, or boat in Jordan Lake.
   
   
2. Crosswinds Campground B26 – Apex, NC 27523
   Not unlike the Popular Point Campground, Crosswinds Campground is located on Jordan Lake just a few miles from Apex homes for sale. This is a great campground for those looking for a more intimate setting as there are less than 200 sites. While the majority have electric hookups, you can still pitch a tent and take advantage of the picnic table and grill at each site.
   
   
3. The Matthews Campground – 7625 Lake Wheeler Rd., Raleigh, NC 27603
   Retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city and relax in the secluded Matthews Campground. This private, quiet space is close to Raleigh homes for sale, a short drive from Lake Wheeler Park, the State Farmer's Market, and the NC State Fairgrounds. While you cannot use the Matthews Campground for tent camping, you are welcome to park your travel trailer or motor home on the property and utilize power, water, sewer, and WiFi.
   
   
4. Eno River State Park – 6101 Cole Mill Rd., Durham, NC 27705
   Within minutes of Durham homes for sale, Eno River State Park offers a beautiful space to hike, fish, and take in astounding natural views. Camping in Eno River State Park is fantastic, but unlike other areas, not all sites within the park are the same. For instance, some single or group sites may or may not have electric hookups, bathhouses, or wheelchair accessibility. Backpack campers should head to the Fanny's Ford Campground or Piper Creek Campground while groups can visit the Cox Mountain Group Camp or Buckquarter Creek Group Camp. 
   
   
5. Falls Lake State Recreation Area – 13304 Creedmoor Rd., Wake Forest, NC 27587
   Explore the Falls Lake State Recreation Area and enjoy hours of on-and-off-water activities. This recreation area is a centerpiece for the network of hiking trails stretching the state, giving you access to outdoor adventure whether you're camping in the park or living nearby at one of our Wake Forest homes for sale. Similar to the Eno River State Park, not all campsites have the same amenities and you should book your stay in advance. Backpack campers should head to Shinleaf's site, groups can visit Shinleaf as well, Rolling View, or B.W. Wells and those with RVs or trailers can park in a shady spot at Holly Point.

Would you love a new home with a backyard big enough to camp in? We can help! Contact us today to browse homes for sale around The Triangle.

There's nothing quite like getting cozy with a good book when the world starts to feel overwhelming. 

In honor of National Book Lovers Day—coming right up on August 9th—we asked our real estate agents to name some of their favorite outdoor reading spots. The list includes some of the most beautiful parks and green spaces in Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill, NC.

1. Lake Johnson Park - 4601 Avent Ferry Rd., Raleigh, NC 27606
   Lake Johnson Park has been a favorite place to enjoy the outdoors in Raleigh since it opened to the public in 1952. The centerpiece of the park is 150-acre Lake Johnson, which is a popular spot for fishing and kayaking, but also a great place to sit by the shoreline and catch up on your summer reading. Just minutes from these Raleigh homes for sale, the park can get a bit busy on the weekends, so we recommend visiting mid-week if possible. 
2. Dorothea Dix Park - 2105 Umstead Dr., Raleigh, NC 27603
   With rolling meadows, shady groves of trees, and a great view of the Raleigh skyline, Dorothea Dix Park is a popular spot for picnics and dog walking. The park's most famous feature is its sunflower field (sadly not planted in 2020 due to COVID-19), but Dorothea Dix Park still offers one of the most serene, relaxing landscapes in Raleigh. It's a great place to sit under a shady tree and get lost in the pages of your favorite book. 
3. Sandy Creek Park - 3510 Sandy Creek Dr., Durham, NC 27707
   Home to a wetlands restoration project and a series of reclaimed historic industrial sites, Sandy Creek Park, is one of Durham's most fascinating landscapes. The park abounds with quiet spots to read—park benches, picnic tables, shelters—and also offers some lovely hiking trails near these Durham homes for sale. Sandy Creek Park is a work in progress and a labor of love for the countless volunteers who have helped develop it over the past 20 years. 
4. Cornwallis Road Park - 2830 Wade Rd., Durham, NC 27705
   Cornwallis Road Park is a bit off the beaten path compared to many Durham parks. Nestled among a series of quiet neighborhood streets, the park is sheltered by towering trees. Of the few people who frequent the park, most do so for its disc golf course, leaving much of the rest of this peaceful landscape undisturbed. That makes it a great place to wander along the shady hiking trails, and maybe stop under a tall tree to read a chapter or two. 
5. Carolina North Forest - 122 Municipal Dr. Chapel Hill, NC 27599
   A woodland spanning 750 acres on the UNC North Campus, Carolina North Forest feels miles away from civilization despite being within walking distance of many Chapel Hill homes for sale. It's a wild and picturesque park, with vast stands of mature trees, tumbling streams, meandering hiking trails, and an abundance of native wildlife. 

Contact us today to learn more about life in the Triangle area of North Carolina. Our team is dedicated to helping you find the perfect home for you and your family!

Who's ready for a vacation? Our real estate agents sure are! After the last few months, we agree that everyone could use a little time away from home to relax, recharge, and enjoy spending time with those they care about the most. If you'd like to get out of town without hopping on a plane or train, consider road tripping to one of those great getaway destinations close to Raleigh.

1. Winston-Salem, NC
   Distance from Raleigh by Car: Approximately 2hrs
   Head down to the Piedmont Triangle of North Carolina and enjoy a getaway tucked between the Atlantic Ocean and the Blue Ridge Mountains. Winston-Salem has a host of historical sites, museums, wineries, and dining options that will keep you busy for hours. Some of the notable attractions include the Salem Glen Country Club, Yadkin Valley Wine Tours, the Crooked Tail Cat Café, and Kernersville Little Theatre. 
   
   
2. Wilmington, NC
   Distance from Raleigh by Car: Approximately 2.5hrs 
   Discover adventure and renewal in Wilmington. Their scenic Riverwalk, colorful island beaches, and charming historic district invite you to kick back and enjoy a long weekend away. Sip and watch the sunset over the Cape Fear River at Cloud 9. Munch on Southern comfort food at Fork n Cork. Relax in the shade at Airlie Gardens or splash around at Carolina Beach. Wilmington has everything your family needs to have a great time outdoors this summer.
   
   
3. Charlotte, NC
   Distance from Raleigh by Car: Approximately 3hrs
   Explore the CLT and live like a local on a mini getaway. Great attractions like the NASCAR Hall of Fame, AvidXchange Music Factory, and 7th Street Public Market will keep you entertained from sunup to sundown. Even if you're just visiting for a quick weekend jaunt, you can experience everything the Queen City has to offer by checking out the NoDa arts district, catching a live show at the Evening Muse, touring the Duke Mansion, and sampling new beers at Legion Brewing. Better yet, get lost in one of Charlotte's 20+ neighborhoods and discover the many hidden gems few tourists know about.
   
   
4. Outer Banks, NC
   Distance from Raleigh by Car: Approximately 3.5hrs
   Leave your worries at home and spend a few days of seclusion and serenity in the Outer Banks. Go ghost crab hunting at night after you've spent the afternoon fishing off of Avalon Fishing Pier. Visit the Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge or NC Aquarium to get an up-close-and-personal view of our state's wildlife. With a number of on- and off-water activities for the whole family, the OBX will become your favorite getaway destination on the East Coast.
   
   
5. Asheville, NC
   Distance from Raleigh by Car: Approximately 4hrs
   There are few towns in all of the South as charming and quaint as Asheville. Get reacquainted with nature as you hike through thousands of miles of trails within the Appalachian Mountains. Visit local farms, immerse yourself in mountain culture, or spend an evening munching on innovative food while listening to live music from local bands. Whether you want a quiet weekend tucked away in the woods or a lively vacation filled with craft beer and vibrant culture, Asheville has something for everyone!

Living in Raleigh lets you vacation throughout North Carolina without ever being far from home. Contact us today to browse our Raleigh homes for sale.

It's true that summertime activities may not be the same this year, but that doesn't mean that you can't get out and have some fun! Many of our real estate agents enjoy spending their days off exploring the area's best fishing spots.

National Go Fishing Day is coming up on June 18th and is the perfect excuse to explore the local fishing spots near Raleigh. Whether you're a seasoned angler or an absolute beginner, grab your pole, because you're going to love spending time at these local parks. 

1. Bass Lake Park: 900 Bass Lake Road, Holly Springs, NC 27540
   If you want to spend the day relaxing and maybe even catch your dinner, plant to visit the 54-acre lake at Bass Lake State Park. It's stocked with catfish, but you'll also have the chance to catch bass, crappie, and bream. Don't have a pole? You can borrow one for free thanks to the park's Tackle Loaner Progam. Although you're not allowed to bring your own boat or personal watercraft, you can rent a canoe. Before you head home for the day, take a drive around so you can get a look at some of the beautiful Holly Springs homes for sale.
2. William B. Umstead State Park: 8801 Glenwood Avenue, Raleigh, NC 27617
   Located not far from some of the best Raleigh homes for sale, the William B. Umstead State Park is a favorite among locals and visitors. It's home to three manmade lakes where you can fish, and, on the biggest one, you can also canoe or rent a rowboat. You can visit by car or access the park using an extensive network of multi-use trails that are perfect for hiking, biking, running, or even horseback riding. 
3. Historic Yates Mill County Park: 4620 Lake Wheeler Road, Raleigh, NC 27603
   If you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of daily life, you'll love spending some time at Historic Yates Mill County Park. Not only is this a great place to fish, but it's also an environmental research center and a 174-acre wildlife refuge. This is a great place to visit with kids, as they'll have the chance to explore educational exhibits and gardens and learn more about cultural and agricultural history. There are also plenty of hiking trails and a relaxing picnic area.
4. Falls Lake: 11405 Falls Of The Neuse Road, Wake Forest, NC 27587-1405
   Falls Lake is a manmade reservoir that covers approximately 12,500 acres, stretches 22 miles, and is surrounded by 22,500 acres of public land. Here you can enjoy fishing, boating, camping, hiking, and biking close to many Wake Forest homes for sale. There's also plenty of places to relax with a picnic lunch and lots of opportunities to observe the local wildlife.
5. Eno River State Park: 6101 Cole Mill Road, Durham, NC 27705
   The Eno River State Park features almost 30 miles of trails along the river. It's an extremely popular fishing spot and is also an excellent location for photography and sightseeing. The park also allows kayaking and canoeing, although this is sometimes difficult due to shallow water. While you're in the area, we encourage you to explore! You'll quickly see why so many home buyers are interested in Durham homes for sale. 

There are plenty of things there are to love about living in this area, including the many wonderful public parks. If you're thinking about relocating, we're happy to show you around and help you find the home of your dreams. Contact us today to learn more! 

If you're like most people, living under the current stay-at-home orders has started to feel really mundane. It's true, there's not a lot to do right now, but ordering takeout from some of the area's best restaurants is a great way to spice things up. 

Many of our real estate agents have started planning a weekly takeout night. Not only does this give us a chance to try out some new foods, but we love being able to support our local restaurant owners. Here are a few of our favorites! 

1. Woody's at City Market: 2050 Wolfe St. Raleigh, NC 27601
   Conveniently located in downtown Raleigh, Woody's at City Market is perfect for those days when you're craving some American comfort food. We recommend the burgers, Cuban sandwiches, and, of course, the chicken wings. They're currently offering curbside takeout, and delivery! 
2. Chow Pizza Bar: 8311 Creedmoor Rd. Raleigh, NC 27613 
   When it comes to takeout, pizza and wings reign supreme! In addition to awesome pizza and wings, Chow Pizza Bar also has delicious sandwiches, nachos, burgers, and salads. The whole family will love getting a feast from this local restaurant.
3. The Pit Authentic BBQ: 328 W Davie St., Raleigh, NC 27601
   There's nothing like some slow-made homestyle BBQ to pull you out of a funk! The Pit Authentic BBQ is serving up all their best dishes for takeout, including pulled pork, beef brisket, and their famous Southern Fried Chicken. We recommend adding an order of fried green tomatoes and skillet cornbread to your order as well. Yum! 
4. Ruben's NY Deli: 170 E. Davie St., Raleigh, NC 27601
   If you've been looking for a truly authentic NY style deli, look no further! At Ruben's NY Deli, you'll find delicious corned beef that's pickled and braised daily and hand-rubbed and smoked pastrami, turkey, and roast beef. They also have all the classic sandwiches piled high with meat and cheese as well as an excellent selection of soups, salads, bagels, and desserts. They serve breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner and offer both takeout and delivery. 
5. Jose and Sons: 327 W. Davie. St., Suite 102, Raleigh, NC 27601
   You don't have to wait for Cinco De Mayo to enjoy a delicious Mexican feast! Jose and Sons has an amazing menu. Whether you're craving a Primo Burrito, fried pork belly chicharrones, enchiladas, street corn on the cob, or a barbacoa platter, they've got you covered! You can also feed the whole family with the Chef's Picnic or the Family Style Taco Kit. 
6. Sushi Blues Cafe: 301 Glenwood Ave., Ste. 110, Raleigh, NC 27603
   From incredible sushi and sashimi appetizers and platters to lunch and dinner entrees, including teriyaki, tempura, stir-fry, noodles, and more, a takeout order from Sushi Blues Cafe is sure to satisfy your cravings. They're currently offering curbside pickup and BOGO sushi rolls for all of their pickup orders! 

Although things have certainly changed, we're still working hard to help our clients reach their real estate goals. Contact us to learn more about how you can virtually tour some of the beautiful Raleigh homes for sale or put add your home to the inventory. We're here to help! 

While the current COVID-19 crisis has upended life as we know it, many people are finding creative ways to help out their neighbors and show that they care. Several people have reached out to our real estate agents, asking what they can do to support our local community. 

If you want to make a contribution to medical professionals and others who need personal protective equipment (PPE), you may consider joining the many Americans who are making homemade face masks to help stop the spread of this virus. One of the best ways to do this is to join the national group called "Face Mask Warriors."

How to Work With Face Mask Warriors 

The North Carolina branch of this group has over 2,500 followers on its Facebook page. Request to join the group, and you can learn more about the project and connect with other like-minded individuals. 

If you're ready to jump in, visit their website. From here, you can request information regarding how to donate completed masks or learn more about how to volunteer to create masks, caps, or gowns. They'll provide you with the patterns and, if necessary, they'll also give you the materials you'll need. When you've completed your projects, you can either drop them off at a designated location or request that they come and pick them up from your home. 

Currently, the group has donated masks to UNC Health and is gathering a collection for Glenaire Retirement Community in Cary. This organization is currently looking for about 300 adult-sized masks for their residents. Other organizations can also request masks on the Face Mask Warriors website. As stay-at-home orders begin to be lifted, it's likely that the need will continue to increase.

Don't Sew? You Can Still Help!

Even if you don't sew, you can still join the group and help out. They also need people to drop off and pick up materials and completed projects. You could also donate materials or volunteer the outside of your home to be a designed drop-off point. 

The completed masks and other PPE are being donated to health care facilities, certain hospitals, and other organizations that need them. Note that not all organizations are accepting homemade masks, so it's best to join a group like this one to ensure that your efforts are as effective as possible. 

During these uncertain times, it's easy to feel helpless. However, taking steps like this can make you feel more in control while also helping to make the world a better place. 

Your Raleigh Real Estate Professionals

Have you been thinking about buying or selling a home when things get back to normal? The good news is, you don't have to wait! We're still showing Raleigh homes for sale and helping our clients reach their real estate goals. Contact us today to learn more and get started. 

During tough times, our Raleigh community comes together. Our real estate agents are proud to call the Raleigh area home and are determined to spread some kindness across the community. Here are some simple random acts of kindness you can complete in the Raleigh area to help others during these difficult times. 

• Donate to or Volunteer at a Food Bank - Food Bank of Central & Eastern North Carolina, 1924 Capital Blvd., Raleigh, NC 27604
  With people shut in and low on funds, it's difficult for them to maintain healthy eating habits, especially if they have kids. Food Bank of Central & Eastern North Carolina is continuing to serve local residents in need while following CDC's best practices. You can help by donating funds, holding a virtual food drive or volunteering with a self-scheduled shift on the website. The Raleigh distribution center is open weekdays from 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.
  
  
• Adopt a Rescue Animal - SPCA of Wake County, 200 Petfinder Ln., Raleigh, NC 27603
  SPCA of Wake County is working hard to care for these animals until they can be rehomed. The shelter is currently closed, but the organization is accepting applications and conducting phone meetings so you can reserve the pet of your choice until adoptions resume. Each day at 2 p.m., a staff member conducts a Facebook Live event where you can view the dogs and cats currently available for adoption. If you're not in a position to adopt, consider a financial donation toward SPCA's expenses.
  
  
• Support Healthcare Workers - Duke Health, 1233-D Front St., Raleigh, NC 27609
  Healthcare workers such as those in the Duke Health system are working tirelessly around the clock to care for patients. They desperately need supplies such as N95, surgical and looped masks along with sealed boxes of gloves and eye protection. With blood bank supplies running low, healthcare providers are asking for healthy people to become donors. Finally, you can make a financial gift to the Duke COVID-19 Response Fund for research and testing. Donated supplies can be dropped off at the Raleigh location from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. weekdays.
  
  
• Send Greeting Cards to Nursing Home Residents - Capital Nursing and Rehabilitation, 3000 Holston Ln., Raleigh, NC 27610
  Extra precautions are being taken to protect people in nursing home and long-term care facilities who are more vulnerable to health risks. Sadly, these people are feeling even more isolated from friends and loved ones at a time when they need support the most. Take a few minutes to brighten the day of patients at places such as Capital Nursing and Rehabilitation with a cheerful greeting card. Be sure to call the facility first and ask about any special procedures they may have regarding cards and delivery.
  
  
• Help Neighbors
  Lending a helping hand to neighbors in need is a great way to lift the spirits of everyone involved, especially if you know any healthcare providers, first responders or elderly people. Here are just a few ideas of how you can assist those around you: mow the lawn; shop for groceries; pick up prescriptions; babysit; walk dogs; give restaurant or grocery store gift cards; share supplies; call or text just to say hi.

Howard Perry and Walston is proud to be part of such a caring and supportive community. Contact us for more information about Raleigh homes for sale. 

Is it just us, or does it finally feel like spring might be just around the corner? As always, our real estate agents are excited about the idea of warmer weather and greener lawns. If you're looking to spruce up the landscape around your North Carolina home this spring, we'd like to recommend some of our favorite local greenhouses and plant stores!

1. Homewood Nursery & Garden Center - 10809 Honeycutt Rd, Raleigh, NC 27614

   A long-running favorite source for gardening supplies and specialty plants, Homewood Nursery and Garden Center is the perfect place to find some new additions to your spring landscape. Located just minutes from many Raleigh homes for sale, the nursery offers an incredible selection of trees, shrubs, and other plants, along with a knowledgeable staff. 

2. Taylor's Nursery - 3705 New Bern Ave, Raleigh, NC 27610

   Founded in 1950, Taylor's Nursery is proudly entering its 70th year serving the Raleigh community. That's no small feat for a farm and nursery that has grown to encompass 1,500 acres at its field operation in Louisburg, along with 80 acres at the main location in Raleigh. Taylor's Nursery grows hundreds of different plant species, with unique featured varieties that change with the seasons, so you'll always find something new and exciting to add to your landscape. 

3. Gunters Greenhouse - 4618 Angier Ave, Durham, NC 27703

   Anyone with a green thumb will find something to get excited about at Gunters Greenhouse. Located close to Durham homes for sale, the greenhouse is offering an incredible variety of annual flowering plants for lawn and gardens this spring. They're also a great place to find unique and hard-to-find plants, from cacti and succulents to vegetables and herbs.

4. Garden Supply Co. - 1421 Old Apex Rd, Cary, NC 27513

   Nestled in the cozy community of Cary, NC, Garden Supply Co. provides top of the line garden plants and supplies, with a friendly and knowledgeable staff who are always dedicated to helping you find exactly what you're looking for. Located near these Cary homes for sale, Garden Supply Co. offers an incredible variety of landscape plants, with a strong focus on all things local. 

5. Plant Delights Nursery - 9241 Sauls Rd, Raleigh, NC 27603

   Raleigh's Plant Delights Nursery has been a leading local source for native, rare, and unique perennial plants in North Carolina since they opened their doors in 1988. A small, family-owned nursery, Plant Delights offers mail-order plant delivery as well as "open nursery" and garden days throughout the year, with special events like their annual Southeastern Plant Symposium and Rare Plant Auction every June. 

6. Kiefer Landscaping & Nursery - 2450 S Alston Ave, Durham, NC 27713

   Amazing selection and excellent customer service makes Kiefer Landscaping & Nursery one of the top sources in Durham for all things garden-related. The folks at Kiefer are committed to finding the right plant for every landscaping situation. Still, they also go above and beyond plant selection, offering a full range of landscaping services, from design and installation of beds and hardscapes to unique water garden features like pondless waterfalls and streams. 

Spring is the time to make sure your home and garden look their best! Contact us today to learn more about life in the Triangle of North Carolina. We've helped countless families find their dream homes in Raleigh, Durham, and the surrounding areas, and we can't wait to help you find yours!

Have you experienced the pickleball craze? Pickleball has grown in popularity so quickly because anyone can pick up a paddle and play. It's a game suited to players of all ages and athletic levels, combining elements of a variety of popular racket-based games. Communities throughout the Triangle have been quick to embrace the popularity of pickleball, with local parks serving as the home base of pickleball players from around the region.

Our real estate agents know all of the best spots in the Triangle, and we've got the details on five local parks where you can get your pickleball fix.

• Brier Creek Park – 10810 Globe Rd., Raleigh, NC 27617
  With places to play pickleball and so much more, Brier Creek Park is one of the best spots in Raleigh to enjoy all of your favorite sports. For players who want to enjoy the game indoors, this is the place to be. The indoor gymnasium offers open-play pickleball for all players, along with other athletic programs.

• Green Road Park – 4201 Green Rd., Raleigh, NC 27604
  There are plenty of great parks to choose from close to Raleigh homes for sale, including Green Road Park, which is located on the Wake County Library premises. The pickleball/tennis courts at Green Road Park feature push-button lighting, available every night year-round until 10 pm. Raleigh is home to an active community of pickleball players, so this is one park where you're sure to find a game.

• Hargraves Community Park – 216 N. Roberson St., Chapel Hill, NC 27514
  Hargraves Community Park and the on-site Community Center are popular gathering places near Chapel Hill homes for sale, so you're certain to find other pickleball players here on most days. If you're looking to enjoy some pickleball in the evening, this park features courts with plenty of lights where you can play after dark. It's also one of the largest parks on our list, with indoor/outdoor basketball courts, picnic areas, playgrounds, and an outdoor swimming pool.

• Garrett Road Park – 6815 Garrett Rd., Durham, NC 27707
  Lined pickleball courts and ample room for outdoor relaxation after your game make Garrett Road Park a popular stop for pickleball fans close to Durham homes for sale. Along with well-maintained pickleball courts, this park features an expansive playground where kids can enjoy some outdoor time while you hang out on the courts. After your game, sit back and enjoy the breeze in the picnic shelter, or fire up the on-site grill to refuel with a hot meal.

• White Oak Park – 1216 Jenks Carpenter Rd., Cary, NC 27519
  Cary homes for sale are located in a community that loves its pickleball, as you'll see when you visit the brand new pickleball courts at the popular White Oak Park. While nearly every pickleball court is a friendly place for new players, the regulars at White Oak Park take special pride in introducing new folks to the game. Everyone is welcomed and encouraged to pick up a paddle and play. With three dedicated pickleball courts and an ever-growing community of local players, White Oak Park attracts players from Cary and beyond.

No matter how you like to enjoy your time outdoors, it's easy to stay active with pickleball and other sports available in the Triangle communities. Contact us to learn more about the Triangle in North Carolina.

Living in the Triangle means that you're never far from the next big event on the calendar, and January is certainly no exception. From live music to fishing, culture, science, and more, there's an event to suit every interest. Our REALTORS® have the exciting details on 6 events happening in the Triangle this January.

1. North Carolina Symphony – 114 East Cameron Ave., Chapel Hill, NC 27514
   The historic UNC campus provides endless entertainment close to Chapel Hill homes for sale, and the excitement continues with a performance by the North Carolina Symphony at Memorial Hall. The North Carolina Symphony brings a performance called The Planets, led by conductor Gemma New of the Women of North Carolina Master Chorale. Travel to other worlds, as you get lost in the music of the North Carolina Symphony Orchestra.

2. Come From Away Broadway Show – 123 Vivian St., Durham, NC 27701
   The magic of Broadway visits the land of Durham homes for sale, with a performance of the award-winning musical Come From Away at the Durham Performing Arts Center. This Broadway show tells the true story of what happens when two cultures meet, with all of the challenges, triumphs, and long-lasting relationships that emerge from the meeting.

3. The Music of Elton John – 2 E. South St., Raleigh, NC 27601
   Experience The Music of Elton John performed by the North Carolina Symphony at the Duke Energy Center for the Performing Arts, conveniently located near Raleigh homes for sale. Featuring the award-winning sounds of famed pianist Michael Cavanaugh, this show is sure to hit all the high points of Elton John's long, legendary career in music.

4. Bass & Saltwater Fishing Expo – 1025 Blue Ridge Rd., Raleigh, NC 27607
   Searching for a winter fishing fix? Head to the North Carolina State Fairgrounds for a full weekend of fishing fun at the annual Bass & Saltwater Fishing Expo. The Expo features a packed schedule of speakers, exhibits, shows, and seminars that touch on everything related to your favorite hobby. Of course, you'll also be able to shop for all of the latest fishing gear.

5. 19th Annual African American Cultural Celebration – 5 E. Edenton St., Raleigh, NC 27601
   The North Carolina Museum of History is an amazing place to visit if you'd like to learn more about our area, and the 19th Annual African American Cultural Celebration is one event that you definitely won't want to miss. With stories, music, dancing, food, authors, historians, and so much more, this event brings 400 years of African American culture to life with help from the North Carolina African American Heritage Commission.

6. Star Families: Winter Skies – 250 E. Franklin St., Chapel Hill, NC 27514
   Searching for a family event that strikes the perfect blend of education and fun? Star Families: Winter Skies is a program at the legendary Morehead Planetarium, designed specifically for kids age 7 through 12 to attend with their parents or school group. This fun, educational show teaches audience members the positions of some of the brightest features of the winter night sky, including stars, planets, and constellations, perfect for getting young stargazers!

No matter the season, there's always something interesting to look forward to when you call the Triangle home. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout North Carolina's Research Triangle.

We all know how hard it can be to stay active in the wintertime. But if your New Year's resolution involves getting in shape—or staying in shape—then you're in luck. The Triangle area offers an endless assortment of gyms and fitness centers, and our REALTORS® are thrilled to share some of their favorites.

1. Capital Strength & Conditioning - 2422 Atlantic Ave, Raleigh, NC 27604
   With a focus on strength training and nutrition coaching, it's not hard to see why Capital Strength & Conditioning is one of the highest-rated gyms in Raleigh. The 4,200 square-foot gym offers semi-private and one-on-one personal training to help you transform your body and achieve top performance. Plus, you'll find numerous Raleigh homes for sale near Capital Strength's convenient location inside the beltline of Raleigh. 
2. Heat Studios - 400 Glenwood Ave, Raleigh, NC 27603
   It doesn't matter if you're a seasoned athlete or just trying to drop a few pounds; Heat Studios has a program that will work for you. Their motto is "Energy Through Movement," and that philosophy shines through with classes and programs that meet you where you are and get you where you want to be. Options range from their signature Heat Classes, designed to bring intensity to your workout routine, to Outdoor Classes that take advantage of North Carolina's beautiful weather.
3. Retro Fitness - 3400 Westgate Dr. Suite B 14C, Durham, NC 277073400
   Don't let the name fool you. With top of the line equipment, group fitness classes, an on-site smoothie bar, and even virtual on-demand fitness classes, Retro Fitness is anything but old fashioned. One of more than 150 locations nationwide, Retro Fitness of Durham is conveniently located in the Westgate Shopping Center, a stone's throw from a wide variety of Durham homes for sale.
4. Warriors Playground - 2320 Presidential Dr #109, Durham, NC 27703
   With dedicated trainers and non-traditional exercise equipment, Warriors Playground is anything but a run-of-the-mill gym. They offer classes like Warrior Cardio for weight loss and muscle toning, Warrior Power for lean muscle building, and Warrior Boxing for challenging and engaging your muscles. There's a program for everyone, no matter what your fitness goals may be. 
5. O2 Fitness - 257 S Elliott Rd, Chapel Hill, NC 27514
   Encompassing an incredible 20,000 square feet of fitness space, O2 Fitness is one of the Triangle's premier destinations for group fitness classes as well as personal training. Here you'll find a functional training area, indoor turf, rows of cardio equipment, dedicated spaces for weight training, a separate cycling studio, and a new Mind~Body studio for Barre. O2 Fitness offers two locations: one in Carrboro, and one in Chapel Hill just minutes from these Chapel Hill homes for sale.
6. TITLE Boxing Club - 2140 Environ Way, Chapel Hill, NC 27517
   People of all sizes and abilities are welcome at TITLE Boxing Club, making it a great option for those new to boxing. Boxing offers a full-body workout that is empowering, exhilarating, and addictive. Check out the gym's full schedule of boxing classes to strengthen and tone your arms, legs, back, and core, all while combining physical stamina with mental agility.

Ready to learn more about life in the Triangle? Contact us today to talk with our team. 

The holiday season is prime shopping time, but it's also a great opportunity to discover hidden gems in town. Shopping local for the holidays comes with its rewards—you can get to know small business owners, get a feel for the warm, welcoming Raleigh community, and find amazing, unique gifts for the loved ones in your life. Our REALTORS® share some of their fave holiday shopping spots in Raleigh near Raleigh homes for sale.

1. Ealdwine—412 S McDowell St, Raleigh
   A go-to destination for fine menswear in Raleigh, this posh gentlemen's shop opened in 2018, adding a touch of refinement to an already vibrant, thriving city. Ealdwine (pronounced Ald-wine) is an Old English name that means "Old Friend," and owners Matt Gray and Jim Pietryka are dedicated to cultivating friendships and being a vital part of the Raleigh community. Choose from a wide selection of Alden brand shoes and a well-curated variety of some of the finest menswear, leather goods, and more. They offer both ready-to-wear and custom-tailored options.  
   
   
2. Elizabeth & Nichole Mobile Boutique (online & delivery)
   This unique online boutique is based in Raleigh, but all sales are conducted online. In addition to providing the hottest trends in women's fashion and personalized styling, Elizabeth & Nichole offers a local mobile service serving the Raleigh area bringing the ultimate shopping experience to your doorstep. It's a perfect way to celebrate the holidays, a birthday party, a bachelorette party, or any type of event you dream of!
   
   
3. Taylor's Wine Shop— 10005 Six Forks Rd, Raleigh
   Taylor's Wine Shop has been serving the Raleigh area since 1980. Here you'll find rare and collectible wines, craft beers, coffee, and even live bait. Their friendly, knowledgeable staff can help you find an ideal gift for the wine lovers on your list. They also offer tons of local food items such as honey, chocolates, jams, BBQ sauces, and more. With tons of tastings and free events, Taylor's is a quirky, longstanding Raleigh favorite you won't want to miss.
   
   
4. The Flourish Market—307 W. Martin Street, Raleigh
   At The Flourish Market, owner Em Sexton believes every product and person has a higher purpose. The Flourish Market strives to make the world a better place for the people of Raleigh and around the globe, partnering with more than 50 brands that provide jobs and fair wages to artisans and makers in vulnerable communities all over the world. You'll find everything from greeting cards to women's fine fashion, accessories, kids' clothing, jewelry, home goods, and more. So get to The Flourish Market and do some good while you do your holiday shopping.
   
   
5. Craft Habit— 2423 Crabtree Blvd, Raleigh
   This super cool and crafty spot offers classes for people of all ages and tons of fun, creative gifts as well. Grab a holiday ornament embroidery kit to brighten up the tree, check out an endless supply of sewing gear, fabric, yarn, paper goods, beads, books, and more. Or plan the ultimate gift—a special private crafting event with friends and family.

These are just a few of the amazing shops you'll find in Raleigh and the Triangle area. Whether you're buying or selling, we can help. Contact us to get started.

Do you wish you could find your center and your dream home in the Triangle? Well, grab your yoga mat and get ready to say 'om' — our real estate agents are here to share the best yoga studios in the Triangle.

1. Element Hot Yoga — 6909 Glenwood., Raleigh, NC 27612
   While we can't show you many Raleigh homes for sale with their own hot yoga studios, we can recommend Element Hot Yoga. Hot yoga classes will nourish your mind, body, and soul over approximately 60 to 70 minutes. You'll increase your strength, enhance your flexibility, and ease your mind alongside others seeking serenity. This 1,000 square-foot heated space will bathe you in natural light as you work on your breathing control and achieve inner balance. Voted one of the top yoga studios in Wake County, Element Hot Yoga is ready to bring you into their calming community.
   
   
2. Bikram Yoga Durham —103 Belt St., Durham, NC 27701
   There are many types of hot yoga classes, but the original version brought from India is available at Bikram Yoga in Durham. This 90-minute class is based around a 26 posture sequence designed to loosen your muscles and normalize the functions and systems of your body. Along with Bikram Yoga, the studio also offers Yin Yoga, which focuses on relaxation and flexibility, and Inferno Hot Pilates, which is a High-Intensity Interval Training class formatted around Pilates. If looking for Durham homes for sale ever leaves you feeling like you need to refocus your mind, head over to Bikram Yoga.
   
   
3. Victory Power Yoga — 34 Oleander Dr. Suite 105, Clayton, NC 27527
   The Clayton homes for sale you've been eyeing are very close to Clayton's first heated power yoga studio. Victory Power Yoga has classes for all skill levels, even a special new student series. Victory Power Yoga takes their community out of the studio as well, engaging in their Mats and Taps yoga at a brewing company on Sundays. 
   
   
4. Zin Yoga Studio & Wine Lounge — 1411 Aversboro Rd. Suite 309, Garner, NC 27529
   Wine and yoga — two things we look forward to most in our week. At Zin Yoga Studio & Wine Lounge, you'll feel more vibrant, healthier, and happier by the end of your session. Sign up for any of their daily yoga classes then spend time in the wine boutique getting to know your fellow yogis. Garner homes for sale just minutes from Zin Yoga Studio & Wine Lounge get you closer to your zen than ever before!
   
   
5. Yoga Garden Apex —101 E. Chatham St., Apex, NC 27502
   Do you love yoga or live yoga? Yoga Garden is conveniently located in historic downtown Apex so yoga lovers can quickly attend classes throughout the day. They offer private sessions for students who need assistance reaching their specific goals and also provide Reiki sessions for those who are interested in its healing benefits. Yoga Garden provides teacher training and continued education classes all certified by Yoga Alliance. So you can one day lead your own lessons when you've finished moving into one of our Apex homes for sale.

Finding your center in the Triangle is as easy as finding your dream home. Contact us today, and let's find you a place of serenity.

Are you looking for free fall activities to do in Raleigh this weekend? Autumn in North Carolina is a gorgeous time of the year, surrounding us with beautiful fall leaves, a crisp breeze and plenty of great family-friendly activities to enjoy. Our real estate agents invite you to grab the kids and venture over to one of these free destinations.

• American Tobacco Trail — 1309 New Hill-Olive Chapel Rd., Apex, NC 27502
  Spend a little time outdoors on the American Tobacco Trail. This recreational rail-trail runs for 6.5 miles through Wake County before continuing another 16.5 through Chatham and Durham Counties. The perfect place of hiking, biking, riding horses, and having a picnic, the American Tobacco Also hosts free events throughout the fall. Plan your trip around one of their free events and look at Apex homes for sale later in the day.
  
  
• North Carolina Executive Mansion — 200 N. Blount St., Raleigh, NC 27601
  The North Carolina Executive Mansion has been the home of North Carolina's governors since 1891. You and your family can sign up for a free tour of the house and the gardens. Learn about the rich history of our state's governorship. The North Carolina Executive Mansion is an interesting afternoon activity after you've viewed a few Raleigh homes for sale.  
  
  
• North Carolina Sports Hall of Fame — 5 E. Edenton St., Raleigh, NC 27601
  Michael Jordan, Phil Ford, Charlie Justice, Charlotte Smith — these are some of the players inducted into the North Carolina Sports Hall of Fame. Since 1963, this remarkable museum has immortalized the amazing players that were born and raised in North Carolina and continues to inspire countless others to rise to greatness. Admission is free, and this home-run of an attraction is located on the third floor of the North Carolina Museum of History, making it a fun and interesting place to spend the whole day.
  
  
• Raleigh Municipal Rose Garden — 301 Pogue St., Raleigh, NC 27607
  The Raleigh Rose Garden is such a lovely place to take a relaxing stroll and enjoy the cool weather. Located on the Raleigh Little Theatre campus, the garden is open to the public seven days a week. Grab your camera and take this opportunity to snap some amazing family photos surrounded by beautiful flowers and trees.
  
  
• Wake Forest Historical Museum — 414 N. Main St., Wake Forest, NC 2758
  A favorite first-stop for residents after they've purchased a Wake Forest home, the Wake Forest Historical Museum is the ideal place to learn about your new town. Admission is always free, and there's plenty to see across the museum's campus. The main museum is joined by the Calvin Jones House which honors the man who has shaped the history and character of the Capital City throughout the early-1800s. Schedule a morning round of browsing Wake Forest homes for sale then pop over to the museum to learn more about how your new home fits into Wake Forest history.

Ready to move to Raleigh? Contact us today and let our real estate agents help you find your dream home!

Our REALTORS® look forward to the annual 4th of July celebrations held in our local communities every year. No matter whether you're looking for family fun, fireworks, athletics, or a more adult social experience, everything is within a few miles. The only problem is choosing just a handful of things to do!

Celebrate America in style this July with these spectacular events in the Triangle:

1. 2019 4th of July 5k and 10k – 1251 Goode Street, Raleigh, NC 27603
   The famous 2019 4th of July 5k and 10k will bring you into the heart of Raleigh, where you can find some of the best Raleigh homes for sale. The Kids' Fun Run will start at 7:45 a.m., with the adult Four Miler at 8. There'll be plenty of swag for everyone as well as small cash prizes for the overall winners. Trophy Brewing Co. will be on hand for post-race refreshments.
   
   
2. Festival for the Eno – Durham, 4404 Guess Road, Durham, NC 27712
   The annual Festival for the Eno is a reminder of the importance of the natural environment around Durham homes for sale. Centered on West Point on the Eno at Durham City Park, it brings you over 70 bands on five stages. Local artisans will be on hand with crafts, and there will even be a juried makers fair. It aims to raise awareness and funds for the Eno River Association.
   
   
3. Town of Cary 4th of July Celebration – 801 High House Road, Cary, NC 27513
   The Town of Cary 4th of July Celebration is an iconic local event that lights up the sky over Cary homes for sale. It's all happening at Bond Park, where you'll be able to enjoy the Parade in the Park at 10:30. Between 3 p.m. and 10, the North Carolina Symphony will hit the Koka Booth Amphitheatre. A 50-foot Ferris wheel will be featured along with rides, games, and food.
   
   
4. Carolina Mudcats vs. Frederick Keys – 1501 Highway 39, Zebulon, NC 27597
   Looking for fun and excitement not far from Zebulon homes for sale? Catch Minor League Baseball action with the Mudcats vs. Keys game in Zebulon. Held at the Five County Stadium, the home of the Zebulon Mudcats, a three-game home series will run between July 4th and 6th. Show up to root for the home team! Admission runs from $8 to $15. Full concessions will be available.
   
   
5. 27th Annual Firecracker Bike Ride – 140 Thomas Mill Road, Holly Springs, NC 27540
   If you're in the mood to get up and get active this July 4th, the 27th Annual Firecracker Bike Ride will bring you past some of the nicest Holly Springs homes for sale. Now sponsored by the Carolina Brewing Company, the ride begins at 8 a.m. July 4th and travels across your choice of a 30-mile or 60-mile marked route. A family-friendly after-party will follow.

Have you been thinking about a brand new home in the Triangle? If so, it's time to celebrate your own independence! Our team will make it easier than you ever thought possible to find and close on the home you want. We know the local area inside and out – and our customer service will give you peace of mind. At every step, we'll help you make the right decision.

Contact us to learn more. We look forward to helping you soon.

Our REALTORS® want you to enjoy this Father's Day, and there are plenty of ways to do it!

All throughout Raleigh, Durham, and the region, Father's Day celebrations are popping up fast. No matter what Dad's into, you're sure to find something that will bring him joy this year.

Check out these nine options from all around the area:

1. Durham Central Park Food Truck Rodeo – 501 Foster Street, Durham, NC 
   Residents of Durham homes for sale are in for a treat this coming Sunday, June 16 when the Food Truck Rodeo arrives at Durham Farmers' Market. This all-ages get-together will feature all of the most popular food trucks from throughout the Triangle for an unforgettable event.
   
   
2. Man Expo III – 1025 Blue Ridge Road, Raleigh, NC
   It's time to party! Raleigh homes for sale are right in the neighborhood of the world famous Man Expo. Described as "the Triangle's largest man cave," it's everything in electronics, cars, travel, gaming, grooming, fitness, sports, and gadgets. 
   
   
3. Father's Day Fun at Color Me Mine - 316 Colonades Way, Suite 215, Cary, NC
   Cary homes for sale aren't far from Fathers' Day Fun at Color Me Mine.  Back by popular demand, feast on a Father's Day fare of grilled hot dogs and ice cream floats while creating your own masterpiece with the entire family this Father' Day in Cary.
   
   
4. Music on the Green – Southern Village Green, 6000 Market Street, Chapel Hill, NC
   Want to enjoy a day out on the green? Chapel Hill homes for sale are within earshot of this concert series each weekend. Around Father's Day, Amy Anderson and Bett Padgett will be on hand to play on June 16. The Carolina Symphony Pops Concert takes place evening of June 14.
   
   
5. REX Wellness Mock Triathlon – 1400 Timber Drive East, Garner, NC
   Not far from many Garner homes for sale is the popular Rex Wellness Center, which has a number of locations all over the Triangle. Wellness instructor Rodney Jenkins will hold an event Sunday, June 16 to give participants the rundown on what it takes to be part of a triathlon.
   
   
6. Father's Day Cars and Cue – 810 North First Avenue, Knightdale, NC
   Knightdale homes for sale are down the street from Cars and Cue over in Knightdale Station Park. Dads have the chance to get up close with some of the most beautiful classic cars, then enjoy finger-licking barbecue at a competition sanctioned by the North Carolina Pork Council.
   
   
7. Catfish Tournament – Graham-Mebane Lake, West Graham Street, Mebane, NC
   Many Mebane homes for sale are on Graham-Mebane Lake, which is known for its bass and catfish tournaments. Three bank-fishing catfish tournaments happen each summer, running from 8 p.m. all the way through midnight. Record catches have been known to happen!
   
   
8. Daddy and Me Day at Crowder County Park – 4709 Ten-Ten Road, Apex, NC
   Apex homes for sale are just around the corner from a local favorite, Crowder County Park's Daddy and Me Day beginning at 2:00 p.m. The entire family is invited for an afternoon of games related to nature. Refreshments will be available. Perfect for family members of all agents.  Children must be accompanied by an adult.
   
   
9. The Head Doctor Show – 3400 New Birch Drive, Raleigh, NC
   Sponsored by Wingz American Grill and led by the Punany Poets, The Head Doctor Show is described as an interactive, romantic comedy especially for dads and their partners. Dress comfortably and you can play along with light interaction intended to enhance your relationship.

Give Dad something else to celebrate this year: The home he's always wanted.  Contact us today at Coldwell Banker Howard Perry and Walston to learn more.

May is National Bike Month and the perfect time to enjoy the Triangle on two wheels. There are bike trails connecting many Triangle communities, and winding through the beautiful outdoor spaces that make North Carolina such a lovely place to call home. Our real estate agents have the inside scoop on eight bike trails where you can celebrate National Bike Month.

Bike Trails in Raleigh, Durham, Cary, and Apex

1. Neuse River Trail – Raleigh
   Raleigh homes for sale make it easy to reach a variety of the trails on our list, including the 27.5 mile Neuse River Trail. This scenic, paved trail offers beautiful views of the river, while passing local historic sites and wetlands. The trail connects to other trails in Raleigh, and in nearby communities like Wake Forest.
2. Duke Forest Trail – Durham
   Looking for a trail close to Durham homes for sale? The Duke Forest Trail offers 3.4 miles of trails around the Duke University Golf Course, along with extensive roads for longer rides. Experience the natural side of Duke University on this popular Triangle trail.
3. Black Creek Greenway – Cary
   If you're shopping for Cary homes for sale, you won't have to travel far to find a great trail. The Black Creek Greenway runs just over 7 miles and takes you through some of the most beautiful natural scenery that Cary has to offer. It's an easy trail to travel, perfect for families with kids.
4. Art to Heart Trail – Raleigh
   Set out from the North Carolina Museum of Art to explore the unique Art to Heart Trail, which travels from the museum to downtown Raleigh. The trail runs for just under 6 miles, passing the NC State University and Meredith College campuses.
5. William B. Umstead State Park – Raleigh, Cary
   With more than 5,000 acres of natural beauty, William B. Umstead State Park has long been one of the Triangle's favorite places for outdoor adventures. Grab your bike, and set out to explore 13 miles of unpaved, multi-use trails, perfect for a brisk workout.
6. Shelley Lake Park – North Raleigh
   Searching for a trail with waterfront views? Shelley Lake Park, located in North Raleigh, features a 2-mile loop around the lake, with ample waterfront scenery and plenty of wildlife to watch. This is a great spot for families, with beautiful views in every direction.
7. American Tobacco Trail – Durham
   Experience the history of the Durham area as you explore the American Tobacco Trail, which runs for 22.5 miles and connects with Wake County. This trail will take you through forests, rural areas, and local wildlife hotspots, providing an opportunity to see first-hand some of the many species that call the Triangle home.
8. Beaver Creek Greenway – Apex
   ​​​​​​​Apex homes for sale are located just a quick trip from the scenic Beaver Creek Greenway, a leisurely trail which connects with local parks and features extensive natural scenery. The trail is also located just a couple miles from the American Tobacco Trail, so you can keep the ride going.

Are you searching for the right home close to all of the outdoor activities in your favorite Triangle community? Our team is here to help. Contact us to buy and sell homes in Raleigh, Durham, and communities throughout the Triangle.

Bargain hunters rejoice — there are plenty of treasures to be found in the Triangle! Our REALTORS® have the details on our top ten favorite destinations for the best deals in the Triangle.

1. Mr. Mike's Used Books – 6440 Tryon Rd., Cary, NC 27518 
   Trust Mr. Mike's Used Books for all of your reading needs. His low prices start at $0.99 which gives you an affordable opportunity to start collecting for the new library you're going to have when you purchase one of the great Cary homes for sale. 
   
   
2. PTA Thrift Shop – 130 S. Elliot Rd., Chapel Hill, NC 27514 
   If you choose to purchase Chapel Hill homes for sale, invest in your community further by shopping at PTA Thrift Shop. Proceeds directly benefit educational programs within the area.
    
3. Page 158 Books – 415 S. Brooks St., Wake Forest, NC 27587 
   Though their selection of new and used books can hardly be beaten, bookworms also frequent Page 158 Books for their great in-store events. After you pick out one of the Wake Forest homes for sale, be sure to sign up for one of their many book clubs.
   
   
4. My Secret Closet – 3965 Arrowhead Blvd., Mebane, NC 27302 
   My Secret Closet is anything but a secret to shopaholics. Near beautiful Mebane homes for sale, this superb shop has a great collection of clothing and accessories for men, women, and juniors as well as gorgeous home décor and furnishings.
    
5. Circle City Books & Music – 121 Hillsboro St., Pittsboro, NC 27312 
   For rare and unusual books around Pittsboro homes for sale, head straight to Circle City. From used books to records and CDs, their knowledgeable staff will guide you to whatever unique title you're looking for.
   
   
6. Serendipity Consignment Boutique – 1437 N. Main St., Fuquay Varina, NC 27526 
   Don't worry ladies — there's a fabulous shop with a pristine selection just minutes from Fuquay Varina homes for sale. Serendipity Consignment Boutique adds high-quality items to their inventory every day so you have the perfect excuse to browse their clothes, jewelry, and shoes as frequently as you desire.
   
   
7. Book Planet – 2101 Harrod St., Raleigh, NC 27604 
   There's only one place to go when you want to fill the bookshelves within Raleigh homes for sale, and that's Book Planet. Their warehouse of wonders has the used books you read listed at the amazing prices you need to quickly stock your shelves with a universe of exciting stories.
    
8. Uptown Cheapskate – 2037 Creekside Landing Dr., Apex, NC 27502 
   Uptown Cheapskate, near Apex homes for sale, is your destination for gently-worn upscale brands at jaw-dropping prices. Receive cash for yesterday's styles that are cluttering your closet and walk out with plenty of fashionable finds.
   
   
9. 3 G's in a Pod Children's Consignment Boutique – 6134 Rogers Rd., Rolesville, NC 27571 
   As you search for the perfect Rolesville homes for sale for your family, you'll be happy to know that plenty of affordable, gently used children's items are in stock at 3 G's in a Pod. This children's consignment boutique has high-quality items for newborns all the way up to sizes 14/16.
   
   
10. Books Do Furnish a Room – 1809 W. Markham Ave., Durham, NC 27705 
    When you've narrowed down your short list of Durham homes for sale, head over to Books Do Furnish a Room and pick out a few volumes to begin decorating your new library, office or study. With everything from first editions to your favorite trade paperbacks, this Durham used bookstore is well worth the visit.

To discover more great resale shops, or to learn more about fantastic homes for sale in the Triangle, contact us at Coldwell Banker Howard Perry and Walston today!

Are you ready to celebrate spring, support local artists, and remind yourself why Cary is such a special place to call home? Then we've got just the event for you! The Spring Daze Arts and Crafts Festival, one of Cary's big annual events, returns for its 26th edition this year, with food, art, music, and fun for all ages. Whether you're shopping for Cary homes for sale or you're already a long-time resident, the Spring Daze Arts and Crafts Festival is a great chance to form a deeper connection with your favorite community. Our REALTORS® are here to help you prepare for the event, with details on Cary's popular Spring Daze Arts and Crafts Festival for 2019.

Spring Daze Arts and Crafts Festival in Cary

The Event: Spring Daze Arts and Crafts Festival
Date/Time: April 27, 2019, 9 am to 5 pm
Location: Fred G. Bond Metro Park – 801 High House Rd., Cary 27513
Admission: FREE

See Work from More than 170 North Carolina Artists
The Spring Daze Festival is first and foremost an opportunity to connect with North Carolina artists, and the amazing, original art that they produce. The festival features work from more than 170 NC artists, in a wide variety of media including painting, photography, sculpture, jewelry, glass, folk art, clay, candles, and even furniture. Soak in the varied work of talented, local artists, and pick up something truly unique to decorate your home.

Four Entertainment Stages
Interested in live music and great stories from local artists? There will be four entertainment stages at Spring Daze, with shows running all day long. All of the performances at Spring Daze are family-friendly, so that audience members of all ages can enjoy everything that the festival has to offer. Stages are positioned throughout the festival area in Bond Park, so you'll never be far from another great show.

Fantastic Festival Food
It wouldn't be a big event in Cary without some truly tremendous food, and Spring Daze certainly does not disappoint. There's something for every taste at the festival, including crab cakes, BBQ, baked goods, ice cream, kettle corn, and cuisine from around the world. If you're feeling thirsty, there will also be cool, refreshing fruit drinks available throughout the festival.

Festival Activities for All Ages
Spring Daze works hard to keep festival attendees of all ages engaged, with fun activities available throughout the day. See the unique Big Birds art exhibit, created with the help of local children, celebrate Fit Cary month, stop by the Sports Zone, or participate in Cary's annual Earth Day celebration, all without ever leaving the festival.

Children's Village
The Spring Daze festival is a great event for kids, too, with a special Children's Village area designed specifically for younger members of the audience. There will be opportunities to plant trees, play interactive games, enjoy face painting, create art, and make new friends at the Children's Village.

Cultural Arts Row
Cary is a community that celebrates the unique heritage of its many residents, and Cultural Arts Row is the perfect chance to explore the community's diverse roots. This corner of the festival features art and information from a wide variety of local cultural organizations, allowing you to learn more about Cary's culture in a fun, educational setting.

Are you still searching for your next home in Cary, and the real estate team that can help you accomplish your goals? We're here to help. Contact us to buy and sell homes in the Cary, NC area.

One of the sweetest things about moving to a new home is the opportunity to start new traditions with your family. Easter will be here soon, but if you're already eager to get festive and usher in spring, don't worry! Durham won't wait until April 21 to start celebrating. As you look for Durham homes for sale, check out some of our annual Easter activities too. The holiday fun lasts all month in Durham, so there's no shortage of family-friendly festivities to fill your weekends.

Here are some of our favorite ways to celebrate Easter around Durham: 

• Spring Egg Dive, 2000 S Alston Ave, Durham 
  If baskets are a little too basic for your family, take a plunge for your eggs instead. This year's Spring Egg Dive takes place Saturday, April 6 from 5:30-7 pm, at the Campus Hills Pool. Instead of scouring a park, kids and adults alike are invited to splash around the Durham pool looking for eggs.
  
  This unusual Easter event gets everyone in the water for an evening of swimming, diving, and winning fun prizes. Durham Parks & Recreation provides life vests for swimmers who need them, but adults must accompany kids younger than 10.

• Easter Eggstravaganza - Epworth United Methodist Church, 3002 Hope Valley Rd, Durham
  Rain or shine (inside if it rains), Epworth United Methodist Church will sponsor their 2019 Easter Eggstravaganza on be Saturday, April 13 from 3-5 pm.  Enjoy an Easter egg hunt, a bounce house, crafts, games, and more!

• West Point Egg Hunt and Dog-Gone Egg Hunt, 5101 N Roxboro St, Durham
  Want to watch your kids and dogs scramble for prizes in a historic riverfront park? Bring the whole family to the West Point on the Eno Egg Hunt on Saturday, April 13. The kids' hunt starts at 10:30 am, and believe it or not, the dogs take over at 1 pm.
  
  This is the park's 32nd annual egg hunt, and it has grown throughout the years to include photo-ops with the Easter Bunny, interactive games and crafts, face-painting stations, and more. Of course, it's the canines-only egg hunt that will truly make your day. Here in Durham, Easter goes to the dogs in the most adorable way.
  
  
• Campus Hills Egg Hunt, 2000 S Alston Ave, Durham
  As kids scramble across West Point on the Eno, another egg hunt will take place across town. Come to the Campus Hills Egg Hunt at 10 am for a festive search party that's open to kids 12 and under. Each participant gets a fake tattoo, a picture with the Easter Bunny, and a chance to collect eggs with special prizes inside.

• The Eggcellent Easter Eggperience, Twin Lakes Park, 435 Chandler Rd, Durham
  Join Teens with Dreams on Saturday, April 20 at Twin Lakes Park from 1-4 pm as they give back to the Durham community by hosting an Easter Egg Hunt and Easter Basket giveaway! Bring your child(ren) to enjoy an EGGcellent Easter.

Are you ready to start your search for a home in Durham? Our REALTORS® will help you navigate our real estate market and learn more about your family's options. Contact us today to find an agent who can help you get started. 

Spring has arrived in North Carolina, and our locals are ready to celebrate family, community, and fun at some of the most popular festivals the Triangle has to offer.

When we asked Our REALTORS® about their favorite spring events, the list was pretty long. Whether you're into food, music, science, or culture, something is going on that's sure to appeal to you. Check out these nine festivals, and you'll get a taste of what makes the Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill area a great place to live. 

1. Dreamville Festival: Raleigh, April 6
   The multi-stage musical event Dreamville Festival is coming back to Raleigh on April 6th. This celebration of art, food, and local culture feature both well-known and up-and-coming musical artists curated by J. Cole. It's held in the 308-acre Dorothea Dix Park and promises to be one of this year's most popular events.
   
   
2. Got to Be NC Fest: Raleigh, May 17 - 19
   Gather up your family and friends and plan to spend some time at the 3-day Got to Be NC festival. This event offers carnival rides and games, pony rides, a selection of food from local vendors, shopping, and the ever-popular Masonic Carolina Pig Jig. The festival is held at the North Carolina State Fairgrounds and entrance on May 17 - 19.  
   
   
3. Raleigh International Food Festival, June 8
   If there was ever a good excuse to take a break from looking at Raleigh homes for sale, the Raleigh International Food Festival is it. This event, held at City Plaza on Saturday, June 8, draws over 17,000 people and celebrates cultural diversity with international food, beer, and wine from around the world, and a variety of musical and dance performances.
   
   
4. Durham Earth Day Festival, April 28
   Celebrate taking care of Mother Earth at the free Durham Earth Day Festival on April 28th. You'll enjoy shopping at the Earth Day market, challenging yourself on the rock climbing wall, and taking the little ones to the Family Fun Zone. You also won't want to miss the Earth Day Parade. On your way home, we suggest taking the scenic route so you can get a look at some of the great Durham homes for sale.
   
   
5. Moogfest: Durham, April 25 - 28
   A popular area event since 2004, Moogfest brings together music, art, and technology, in a one-of-a-kind celebration. The festival runs from April 25th through 28th. It features conferences during the day and cutting-edge electronic, pop, and avant-garde performances at night.
   
   
6. Festival of Life: Durham, June 8 - 9
   Celebrate health and wellness and support your local vendors during the two-day Festival of Life at the Durham Amory. The event is on Saturday, June 8th and Sunday, June 9th. Shop until you drop then stick around for a Tarot card reading while your kids play in the giant game area. 
   
   
7. Near and Far: Chapel Hill, April 28
   A lively street party featuring international food, dance, and music, Near and Far is one of the Chapel Hil's best cultural events. It's held in downtown Chapel Hill on April 28th from 1 to 4 p.m. 
   
   
8. UNC Science Expo: Chapel Hill, April 14
   The UNC Science Expo is a fun-filled day that draws close to 10,000 participants. Kids and adults will both love the lab tours, science challenges, and over 100 hands-on activity booths. This free event is held on April 14th from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m. and does not require pre-registration. Many of the best Chapel Hill homes for sale are near the UNC campus, so we suggest taking a look around at some of the great neighborhoods while you're in the area.  

9. Plastic-Free Eggstravaganza: Chapel Hill, April 14
   Gather up the family on April 14th and head over the first-ever Plastic-Free Eggstravaganza. Enjoy hunting for wooden eggs, then participate in STEAM events, games, and arts and crafts. The event runs from 1 to 4 p.m., and admission and parking are both free.

Are you thinking about moving to Raleigh, Durham, or Chapel Hill? We would love to show you around and tell you more about what makes this a great place to live. Contact us today to get started! 

March 30 is National Take a Walk in the Park Day. After a long winter, it's a holiday that our real estate agents can get behind. We've got a lot of great outdoor spaces here in the Triangle area, and these are some of our favorite places to take a walk in the park in Raleigh, Durham and beyond.  

1. Green Hills County Park - 9300 Deponie Drive, Raleigh
   This beautiful park in Northeast Raleigh is an excellent place for family fun, with an elementary school, middle school, and numerous Raleigh homes for sale nearby. With ample wide open spaces, Green Hills County Park offers picnic pavilions, playgrounds, walking trails and a challenging mountain bike skills course. The park's vast open fields are great for flying kites, playing Frisbee or stretching out on a picnic blanket.
2. Apex Community Park - 2200 Laura Duncan Road, Apex
   Spanning 160 beautiful acres, Apex Community Park is just a few miles southwest of Raleigh and includes more than 3 miles of secluded nature and running trails. The park is just footsteps away from many Apex homes for sale, and also includes 50-acre lake that is great for fishing, canoeing, and kayaking. A wide range of sports facilities are located at the park as well, including basketball and tennis courts, soccer fields, sand volleyball courts, baseball fields, and batting cages. 
3. Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve - 2616 Kildaire Farm Road, Cary
   The rugged Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve is one of the great places in the Triangle to get away from it all. Despite being just minutes away from these Cary homes for sale, the preserve feels wild and remote, with hiking trails that meander along ridges, ravines, creeks, and stands of mature hemlock trees. Be sure to stop in at the Stevens Nature Center while you're there to learn more about the preserve. 
4. Durham Central Park - 501 Foster Street, Durham
   True to its name, Durham Central Park is at the beating heart of Durham, offering not only a great place to go for a walk, toss a Frisbee or have a picnic, but also hosting some of the cities biggest events. If you're visiting to check out Durham homes for sale, you might want to plan your trip to coincide with the Durham Central Park Food Truck Rodeo or the Pints for Paws Craft Beverage Festival. The park also hosts the weekly Durham Farmers' Market every Saturday year-round.
5. Prairie Ridge Ecostation - 1671 Gold Star Drive, Raleigh
   Part of the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences, the Prairie Ridge Ecostation encompasses nearly 40 acres of reclaimed land – mostly former cow pastures – that has been allowed to return to its natural state. Today it's an incredible place for hiking, bird watching and nature photography, with prairie grasslands, bottomland forests, ponds and streams that harbor a rich diversity of plant and animal life.
6. White Deer Park and Nature Center - 2400 Aversboro Road, Garner
   Nestled on the picturesque shores of Lake Benson, White Deer Park and Nature Center is a perfect place to enjoy some time in the great outdoors, and to introduce the next generation to the joys of exploring the natural world. With numerous Garner homes for sale in the area, the park is easily accessible, offering everything from nature trails and picnic facilities to nature exhibits and environmental gardens. 

Contact us to learn more about outdoor recreation opportunities in the Triangle area, and talk with our team of dedicated real estate agents about finding your home in Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill, and the surrounding communities!

If you're spending time in town searching for Raleigh homes for sale, you'll quickly hear about one of North Carolina State University's treasures: the JC Raulston Arboretum. This nationally acclaimed garden, located just across the street from NC State's West Campus, contains a living collection of over 6,300 diverse plant varieties — touted as one of the largest collections in the Southeast!

Established in 1976, this arboretum and botanical garden provide more than ten acres of spectacular viewing free of charge. It's been internationally recognized and continues to grow, expanding its amazing collection while increasing its space for visitors of all ages and abilities to enjoy a stroll through their gardens every day of the year.

What You'll Find at JC Raulston Arboretum

This living laboratory is a resource for horticulture professionals, residents and visitors alike, offering access to vibrant gardens, including:

• The Entry Garden, featuring over one hundred tropical perennials
• The Winter Garden highlights plants that grow best in colder temperatures
• The Paradise Garden is a blooming burst of plant life that engages all five senses
• Xeric Garden, showcasing plants from the American Southwest and Mexico
• Model Gardens, perfect for finding the next plant for your home garden
• The Southall Memorial Garden, a grove perfect for relaxation
• The Japanese Garden, a peaceful Zen garden for quiet reflection
• The Klein-Pringle White Garden, an homage to the renowned White Garden at Sissinghurst Castle.
• The Latin House, a cool place to view plants that love the shade
• The Finley-Nottingham Rose Garden, a stunning array of roses as pretty as can be

The first stop for all guests venturing into the JC Raulston Arboretum is the Bobby G. Wilder Visitor Center. This center features an innovative sustainable design that prioritizes energy-efficiency. Within the center, you'll find helpful information, an event calendar, a handy map of the grounds and volunteers who will answer all of your questions.

Enhance your trip with a visit to the Ruby C. McSwain Education Center. Inside, you'll have the opportunity to increase your knowledge of plant life with educational activities and lectures as you view their teaching and research gardens.

JC Raulston Arboretum: A Great Way to Enjoy Raleigh Outdoors

With events like workshops, children's programs, symposiums, tours, plant sales and more, the JC Raulston Arboretum is a fantastic way to spend a gorgeous day in Raleigh. Be sure to check their events calendar to discover more fun activities and happenings throughout the year. Our real estate agents know that the JC Raulston Arboretum has something special that the whole family will enjoy!

Outstanding Raleigh homes for sale are conveniently close to the JC Raulston Arboretum, as well as many other remarkable outdoor activities. If you're interested in learning more about the natural wonders around Raleigh's community, or if you'd like to find information on buying or selling a home in the western Raleigh area, contact us at Coldwell Banker Howard Perry and Walston. Our Raleigh real estate agents are happy to assist in finding your perfect home! 

Saturdays are full of possibilities, and Apex has a wealth of cultural and entertainment activities to explore. The vibrant pedestrian-friendly downtown area retains its charming ambiance thanks to a number of beautifully restored buildings, some dating back to 1870. 

Where do you start? Our real estate agents offer suggestions for their favorite activities that take you from morning to night on a Saturday in Apex.

1. Belgian Cafe - 1232 W. Williams St. 
   Start your day with some European flair at Belgian Cafe. The highlight of the breakfast menu is their signature petit dejeuner français, which includes two croissants with butter and jelly, fresh fruit, orange juice, and coffee. Don't forget to pick up some delicious macarons or tartelettes to take home.
   
   
2. Apex Farmers Market - 220 N. Salem St. 
   For your next stop, head to the Apex Farmers Market and savor the bounty of fresh, locally-sourced fruits, vegetables, meats, and dairy products. Their selection of artisanal baked goods, cheese, sauces, and salsas add punch to any style of cooking. 
   
   
3. MGC Boutique - 219 N. Salem St. 
   Take your BFF along to browse the stylish and versatile clothing and accessories at MGC Boutique, which is short for "My Girlfriend's Closet." The industrial-chic space features brick walls dating back to 1909 and large, warehouse-style skylights and windows. You'll see why MGC Boutique calls itself "Anthropologie at a more affordable price point."
   
   
4. The Provincial - 119 N. Salem St. 
   The Provincial is just down the block from MGC Boutique, making it a perfect stop for lunch. Choose from a menu of soups, salads, and sandwiches that satisfy any appetite, large or small. If you want to try something new, check out the rotating selection of small and big plates. Beer and wine specials are offered every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday.
   
   
5. The Red Canvas - 127 N. Salem St. #A
   Whether your interest in art involves doing or just looking, the Red Canvas is a great spot to immerse yourself in the creative spirit. The Red Canvas is a working studio for owner Catherine Martin, and works on display are painted by Martin and her students. Martin likes to promote a true community feel by featuring paintings designed to inspire awareness of social issues.
   
   
6. Common Grounds Coffeehouse and Desserts - 219 N. Salem St.
   Housed in a historic Apex building called the Promenade, Common Grounds is an ideal spot to chat with friends or enjoy a good book over a cup of coffee. Tables, lounge areas and free WiFi encourage leisurely visits. Specialty flavors like Snickers and Coco Mocha are treats by themselves, but feel free to choose one of the decadent desserts supplied by Cary's Custom Confections.
   
   
7. Mamma Mia Italian Bistro - 708 Laura Duncan Rd.
   Cap off a delightful day by meeting a friend for some traditional Italian favorites at Mamma Mia Italian Bistro. Classic preparations such as Marsala, Parmigiana, and Piccata are offered with your choice of chicken or veal. Try one of the chef's specials or build your own dish by selecting your favorite pasta and sauce. And what's an Italian restaurant without pizza? House wines are available by the bottle or glass.  

\Whether you're a social butterfly or you prefer cocooning, Apex homes for sale accommodate any lifestyle and family size. Contact us and let our Coldwell Banker Howard Perry and Walston real estate agents help you find the home of your dreams.

Whether you're already experienced in the kitchen or you're looking to sharpen you're cooking skills for the first time, there are a ton of great reasons to consider taking a cooking class. It's a fun way to meet new, like-minded people when you move to a new community and develop skills that you can use for the rest of your life. Cooking classes are also great places to learn about healthy eating options, find new recipes, and enjoy some delicious food while you learn. Our real estate agents are here to help you pursue your passions, with a guide to the five best places to take a cooking class in the Triangle.

New Friends, New Flavors, New Ideas

1. Flour Power 201 Park at N Hills St #101, Raleigh
   Raleigh homes for sale make it easy to enjoy a wealth of great dining options, and to develop your cooking skills at local classes. At Flour Power Studios, even the kids can get in on the cooking action! Flour Power has been offering kids cooking classes for more than 10 years, in a supportive, engaging, and fun environment. Schedule a class at Flour Power, and help your kids develop skills that will last a lifetime.
   
   
2. Sur La Table – 4421 Six Forks Rd., Raleigh
   Don't worry, there are plenty of great cooking classes for adults in Raleigh, too! At Sur La Table, you'll find in-store classes on a wide range of popular culinary topics, from making your own pasta to cooking the perfect meal for a date night. It's also a great place to schedule a private cooking class for a special event.
   
   
3. Capri Flavors – 867 Bass Pro Ln., Cary
   If you're shopping for homes in Cary, a cooking class will be an excellent way to meet people in your new community. Capri Flavors brings the classic flavors of Italy to your table in Cary and offers the chance to learn from true culinary experts. Proprietors Costanzo and Titina Vuotto, who spent most of their lives in Capri, Italy, are happy to teach you the secrets of traditional Italian cuisine.​​​​​​​
   
   
4. Taste Buds Kitchen Apex – 1475 Beaver Creek Commons Dr., Apex
   Whether you're shopping for Apex homes for sale or already live in the community, cooking classes at Taste Buds Kitchen are a great way to pass the time. From kids cooking classes to adult cooking events, Taste Buds Kitchen Apex offers something for every member of the family. Take a semester class, enjoy a private lesson, or participate in a class designed for the whole family. Taste Buds is a kids kitchen by day, and a BYOB adult kitchen by night, which makes for a great atmosphere no matter when you visit.​​​​​​​
   
   
5. Chapel Hill Cooking Classes – 11312 US Hwy 15 501 N #107, Chapel Hill
   Homes in Chapel Hill offer much more than great scenery, with plenty of fun, local activities including cooking classes. Head to Chapel Hill Cooking Classes to enjoy expert instruction from chef Amanda Cushman, who is happy to share the secrets she's picked up from a long culinary career. Chapel Hill Cooking Classes offers private, public, and team-building cooking classes, with a busy schedule of classes available every month.

Still searching for the perfect home in the Triangle, where you can put all of those cooking skills to work? Our local real estate team is here to help. Contact us at Coldwell Banker Howard Perry and Walston to buy and sell homes throughout the Triangle.

If you are considering a move to the area and will be spending time in town looking into Garner homes for sale, attending some local events can really help you get a feel for the community. The Garner Performing Arts Center is a great place to start. This center is located in a historic building, constructed in 1923, that was once the local high school and then became an elementary school before falling into disuse.

In 2006, its historic auditorium was extensively renovated into a modern performance venue and given new life as the Garner Performing Arts Center, a facility dedicated to preserving the arts and being of service to its community. As such, it hosts a wide variety of events year-round, and we'll outline some upcoming events here.

If you'll be in the Garner area at the start of the new year, here are some larger events happening in January and beyond at the Garner Performing Arts Center:

• Garner's MLK Celebration, Jan. 20
  Hosted annually by the Garner Performing Arts Center, Garner's MLK Celebration focuses on the life and teachings of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Attendees can look forward to an evening of entertainment, including performances by the Wake Baptist Grove Youth Choir and the Creech Road Elementary School Chorus, among others.

• Jeff Kready, Jan. 26
  This event features a performance by Broadway star Jeff Kready. A top young leading man in the Great White Way, Kready has is currently performing in "Tootsie," and has distinguished himself in other top Broadway productions, including "A Gentleman's Guide to Love and Murder," "Billy Elliott," and "Les Miserables," among many others.

• Rhonda Vincent and the Rage, Feb. 9
  Known as the "Queen of Bluegrass," Rhonda Vincent is an award-winning performer backed by an award-winning group of musicians. Between them, they hold more than 80 awards, including a fistful awarded by the International Bluegrass Music Association. Attendees will be treated to a performance that is a unique blend of contemporary sounds and authentic bluegrass traditions.

• Mike Farris, March 2
  This event features a performance by Grammy Award winner Mike Farris, a Roots Gospel performer who will present his original material, as well as his famous interpretations of traditional gospel music. His musical style is described as funky, danceable, blues-rock with New Orleans swagger and vintage Memphis soul.

• Duty, March 8, 9
  The fifth installment of a series of plays about the local community, "Duty" explores the many ways the community, which lost eight men in the Vietnam conflict, was and still is affected by the Vietnam era.

The events listed above represent just a few highlights of the many events and happenings that are presented by the Garner Performing Arts Center. If you're interested in finding out more about the community or in buying or selling a home in the Garner area, please contact us. Our real estate agents are always happy to put their extensive knowledge and experience to work for new, potential or existing residents.

Have you started planning your New Year's resolutions for this year? For many of us, the start of a new year is an opportunity to focus on the things that matter most, including health, wellness, and fitness. The Chapel Hill area is a great place to make your New Year's resolutions count, whether you already live in the area or are still searching for Chapel Hill homes for sale. If your plan for making the most of the upcoming year involves physical fitness, our real estate agents have seven great gyms and fitness centers in Chapel Hill where you can get started on your New Year's resolution.

1. UNC Wellness Center at Meadowmont – 100 Sprunt St., Chapel Hill
   With more than 52,000 square feet of space filled with state of the art exercise equipment, the UNC Wellness Center at Meadowmont is a great place to work out for all ages. The facility also includes an indoor aquatic center, basketball court, and track, as well as extensive trails for biking and walking outdoors.
   
   
2. CrossFit 15-501 – 11552 Highway 15-501 N., Chapel Hill
   Interested in trying something different for your workouts this year? At CrossFit 15-501, everyone is welcome. Beginners and experts exercise together, with workouts that scale to each individual's experience/fitness level. The experienced CrossFit coaches here work hard to establish a sense of community.
   
   
3. Snap Fitness – 300 Market St., Chapel Hill
   Trying to fit your New Year's resolution into a busy schedule? Snap Fitness is a great spot for fitting in a workout whenever you have free time, open 24/7 with modern equipment, personal trainers, and a busy schedule of classes every day of the week.
   
   
4. Chapel Hill Community Center – 120 S Estes Dr., Chapel Hill
   Whether you're working out indoors or outside, the Chapel Hill Community Center has the facilities to help you achieve your goals for the new year. There's an indoor aquatics facility, gym, and climbing wall, along with extensive outdoor recreation facilities.
   
   
5. TITLE Boxing Club – 2140 Environ Way, Chapel Hill
   Enjoy a unique full-body workout and pick up some pugilistic skills along the way at TITLE Boxing Club, where the exercise program is based on an authentic boxer's workout. Classes at TITLE focus on boxing, MMA, and kickboxing, with fast-paced workouts available for every experience level.
   
   
6. Barre3 Chapel Hill – 201 S Elliot Rd., Chapel Hill
   Barre3 combines a variety of fitness disciplines to deliver a workout tailored to each individual, including pilates, ballet barre, and yoga. This studio has a class to fit everyone and provides everything that you need to enjoy a great workout. There is also a play lounge available, where kids can hang out while their parents work out.
   
   
7. Franklin St. Yoga Center – 431 W Franklin St., Chapel Hill
   Geared toward empowering people who wish to live a healthy lifestyle, the Franklin St. Yoga Center features a variety of classes that benefit both mind and body. Participate in a yoga class, relax with a meditation class, or jump into a bootcamp workout perfect for getting in shape. The experienced teachers at the facility come from a wide range of backgrounds, so there is always something new to try.

Is finding the perfect Chapel Hill home also high on your list of New Year's resolutions? Our team is here to help. Contact Coldwell Banker Howard Perry and Walston to buy and sell homes throughout the Chapel Hill, NC area.

What could be better than heading out for a relaxed Sunday brunch with some of your favorite people? Durham homes for sale make it easy to enjoy a wealth of excellent dining options, and Sunday brunch is no exception, with many unique dining spots to try. Whether you're looking for a traditional brunch or something new, you'll find it in the city. Our real estate agents have the details on nine of their favorite spots to enjoy a lovely Sunday brunch in Durham.

Savoring Sunday Morning: Durham's Best Sunday Brunch Spots 

1. Parker and Otis – 112 South Duke Street, Durham
   Featuring a menu filled with smart, simple food made from fresh, local ingredients, Parker and Otis is a great place to stop for a delicious Sunday brunch. Choose from the breakfast or lunch menus to find the perfect morning meal.
   
   
2. Monuts Donuts – 1002 Ninth Street, Durham
   If you're looking for a friendly atmosphere and delicious, handmade food, look no further than Monuts Donuts. What started as a small donut stand has grown into a popular restaurant. At Monuts, you'll find a full breakfast/lunch menu, soups, salads, and of course some of the best donuts in Durham.
   
   
3. Foster's Market – 2694 Durham-Chapel Hill Boulevard, Durham
   Enjoy a Sunday brunch on the outdoor patio at Foster's Market, where everything is made from scratch and the menu always features something unique. Foster's coffee bar is a nice place to spend time before or after brunch, while the market makes for a great stop to pick up some specialty foods to bring home.
   
   
4. True Flavors Diner – 5410 Highway 55 Suite AJ AK, Durham
   With warm hospitality and an accessible, upscale menu featuring unique takes on your old favorites, True Flavors Diner is a popular brunch destination. Be sure to try the Southern Fried Chicken and Waffles, only available during brunch.
   
   
5. Rise – 8200 Renaissance Parkway, Durham
   Rise began as a small breakfast spot in Durham and has since become a growing chain stretching beyond the Carolinas. Of course, you can still visit the original Rise in Durham for a delicious Sunday brunch, prepared with the freshest ingredients.
   
   
6. Guglhupf Bakery and Patisserie – 2706 Durham-Chapel Hill Boulevard, Durham
   Celebrating 20 years as a Durham staple, Guglhupf Bakery and Patisserie offers a diverse, delicious menu, filled with nods to classic German cooking. Best of all, you can now enjoy the brunch menu at Guglhupf every day of the week!
   
   
7. Elmo's Diner – 776 Ninth Street, Durham
   Stop by Elmo's Diner for a relaxed brunch in a casual, inviting atmosphere, with a staff that makes everyone feel like a regular. Elmo's has been serving up Durham's favorites for more than 20 years, and everything is made from scratch.
   
   
8. Geer Street Garden – 644 Foster Street, Durham
   Located in downtown Durham on the corner of Foster and Geer Streets, Geer Street Garden offers a menu filled with home-cooked favorites every day of the week. The brunch buffet, available on Sundays, features breakfast favorites, salads, quiche, fruit, and banana pudding for dessert.
   
   
9. NOSH - 2812 Erwin Rd, Durham
   NOSH Eclectic Foodstuffs is the go-to place for Durham locals, students, and visitors. Wendy Woods and Piper Lunsford, owners, offer their guests highest quality, affordable food, and quick, friendly service.  Their breakfast menu serves up everything from "a little something to get your day started" to a full-blown, most important-meal-of-the-day medley of pancakes, maple-pepper bacon, and taters.
   
   

Still searching for the perfect home, so that you can enjoy all that Durham has to offer? Our experienced, local team is here to help. Contact us at Coldwell Banker Howard Perry and Walston to buy and sell homes in the Durham, NC area.

It is almost time once again to enjoy the community spirit that comes with the holiday season, and as always Knightdale, NC has a busy schedule of Christmas events to enjoy. Christmas on First Avenue, Knightdale's holiday event series, begins with the annual Holiday Fair, where you can shop, dine, and enjoy the holiday scenery. The series continues with holiday traditions that are sure to create memories for all in attendance. Our real estate agents are here to help you celebrate the season in North Carolina, with our guide to Christmas on First Avenue events in Knightdale, NC.

Christmas on First Avenue Events

Events like Christmas on First Avenue are an excellent example of what you can expect from the community when you shop for Knightdale homes for sale. Knightdale is known as a youthful, energetic city, with ample outdoor attractions and a quick commute to the heart of Raleigh.  Christmas on First Avenue takes place at Knightdale Station Park, a hub of the community with playgrounds, trails, a beautiful pond, and much more to come as Phase II of construction on park amenities nears completion.

• Christmas on First Avenue Holiday Fair – November 29, 2018 – 6 pm to 8 pm
  Kick off the holiday season with the Christmas on First Avenue Holiday Fair, an evening of family-friendly holiday fun held in Knightdale Station Park. The Holiday Fair is one of the new highlights of the season, with entertainment, food, and a chance to start shopping for the perfect gifts. There will be vendors located throughout the area selling holiday gift items and decorations, along with food trucks serving up hot treats while you enjoy all that the fair has to offer. Live music sets the holiday mood as you explore the Holiday Fair.
  
  
• Christmas Tree Lighting – November 30, 2018 – 6 pm to 8 pm
  Looking for a holiday event that the kids will love? The Knightdale Christmas Tree Lighting is always a hit with kids and adults alike. During the festivities, kids will have the chance to write a letter to Santa Claus, meet with Mrs. Claus, spend time with Santa's head elves, and enjoy a visit with Santa. There will also be live music, local vendors selling great food, and even more activities for the whole family to experience. Local businesses will also be handing out free hot cocoa and holiday treats for all in attendance to enjoy. At the conclusion of the event, Knightdale's community Christmas tree will be lit to mark the start of the holiday season.
  
  
• Christmas Parade – December 2, 2018 – 2 pm
  People from all walks of life come together to celebrate the magic of the holidays at the Knightdale Christmas Parade. The parade – which fittingly travels down First Avenue – is a chance for local businesses, students, non-profits, and other organizations to show off their holiday spirit. There will be uniquely decorated floats, bands playing live holiday music, and plenty of Christmas-themed surprises during the parade, so this is a great chance to support the hard work that community members have done to create a memorable holiday experience in Knightdale.

Are you searching for the right home in Knightdale so that you can enjoy fun community events like Christmas on First Avenue throughout the year? Contact us at Coldwell Banker Howard Perry and Walston to buy and sell homes in the Knightdale, NC area.

The holiday season is here, and that means it's time to enjoy all of the Christmas excitement that the Triangle has to offer. Christmas parades are an excellent way to ring in the season and celebrate all of the things that make each community special. No matter where you are in the Triangle, there's a Christmas parade with your name on it. Our real estate agents are here to help you celebrate the season, with our guide to 11 Christmas parades in the Triangle.

'Tis the Season to Celebrate with 11 Christmas Parades in the Triangle

1. Garner Christmas Parade – Saturday, December 1, 2018 - 2:00 pm – Main Street, Garner
   Shopping for Garner homes for sale? Take a break to enjoy the holiday happenings at the Garner Christmas Parade. Settle in to watch the marching bands, parade floats, classic cars, and Santa himself travel through downtown Garner to mark the season.
   
   
2. Knightdale Christmas Parade – Saturday, December 1, 2018 -2:00 pm – Knightdale Station Park
   Homes in Knightdale make it easy to celebrate the season with fun events, like the Knightdale Christmas Parade. Before the parade, there will be a Holiday Fair on Thursday evening, along with the annual Knightdale Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony on Friday evening.
   
   
3. Apex Christmas Parade – Saturday, December 1, 2018 - 5:00 m – Downtown Apex
   Scout out Apex homes while you enjoy the sights and sounds of the holiday season with the Apex Christmas Parade. A Holiday Pancake Breakfast precedes the parade on Saturday morning and the ADBA Pictures with Santa event throughout the day on Saturday.
   
   
4. Fuquay-Varina Christmas Parade – Sunday, December 2, 2018 - 3:00 pm – Downtown Fuquay-Varina
   If you haven't started shopping for Fuquay-Varina real estate just yet, the holidays present a perfect opportunity to see what the community has to offer. The parade travels throughout historic downtown Fuquay-Varina and is part of a series of events to mark the holiday season in the city.
   
   
5. Chapel Hill-Carrboro Holiday Parade – Saturday, December 8, 2018 - 10:00 am to 12:00 pm – Carrboro Town Hall
   Wondering why Chapel Hill homes for sale are such hot properties? Head to the Chapel Hill-Carrboro Holiday Parade and find out! The parade starts at the Morehead Planetarium and winds its way toward a conclusion at Carrboro Town Hall.
   
   
6. Durham Holiday Parade – Saturday, December 8, 2018 - 10:00 am – Main St. and Magnum St., Durham
   Durham homes for sale put you near the best holiday events our city offers, including the Durham Holiday Parade. The parade is followed by the Fun Fest, a family-friendly holiday event with activities for all ages.
   
   
7. Happy Holly Days Christmas Parade – Saturday, December 8, 2018 - 11:00 am – Downtown Holly Springs
   Holly Springs homes are perfect for celebrating the "Holly Days," with fun events like the Happy Holly Days Christmas Parade. Floats, dancers, bands, decorated vehicles fill the parade.
   
   
8. Town of Cary Christmas Parade – Saturday, December 8, 2018 - 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm – Downtown Cary
   See the latest in Cary homes while you stake out the perfect spot along the Town of Cary Christmas Parade route. With more than 40 years of tradition, Cary's Christmas Parade is one of the most well-known in the Triangle.
   
   
9. Wake Forest Christmas Parade – Saturday, December 8, 2018 - 1:00 pm – White Street in Wake Forest
   Settle in among homes in Wake Forest to enjoy the holiday spectacle of the annual Wake Forest Christmas Parade. The parade is part of a busy weekend of holiday activities in Wake Forest, which includes the Snowball Dance for those with Special Needs.
   
   
10. Clayton Christmas Parade – Saturday, December 8, 2018 - 3:00 pm – Downtown Clayton
    Visit the Clayton Christmas Parade to see why the locals love their Clayton homes so much. Before the parade, head to the annual Santa's Workshop Event at the Clayton Community Center for a morning filled with fun family activities.
    
    
11. Pittsboro Holiday Parade – Sunday, December 9, 2018 - 3:00 pm – Downtown Pittsboro
    The Pittsboro Holiday Parade provides the perfect excuse to take a closer look at Pittsboro homes for sale. Head to MLK Drive to catch the start of the parade route, or watch the finish as the parade continues down Farrell Street. The Pittsboro Holiday Parade always brings the community together.

Interested in finding a home for the holidays and beyond in one of the many fantastic communities in the Triangle? Contact us at Coldwell Banker Howard Perry and Walston to buy and sell homes throughout the Triangle.

November and December bring fun, family-friendly events to Raleigh throughout the holiday season. Whether you're busy shopping for Raleigh homes for sale or enjoying all that your home city has to offer, the holidays feature free events that remind everyone why the city is such a great place to call home. The Annual North Hills Tree Lighting Ceremony is the perfect opportunity to kick off the holiday season. Our real estate agents are here to help you enjoy the holidays in Raleigh, with our guide to the Annual North Hills Tree Lighting Ceremony.

The Annual North Hills Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony

The Event: Annual Christmas Tree Lighting at North Hills
Location: The Commons – 4191 Main at North Hills Street
Date/Time: Saturday, November 17, 2018 – Events from 3:30 pm to 7:30 pm
Admission/Parking: FREE Admission

Family Fun and Free Activities in North Hills Christmas

Start your holiday season by making memories at the Annual North Hills Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, with an afternoon filled with fun activities that both kids and parents will love. The fun starts in North Hills at 3:30 pm in the Commons with everything building up to the big Christmas tree lighting at 6:00 pm. Admission to the event is free, and parking is available nearby at the Main District Garage.

• Sledding Slopes and Trackless Train Rides – Are your kids dreaming of a white Christmas? While there may not be traditional snow at the Christmas tree lighting, kids can enjoy some sledding on "Snow My Yard" sledding slopes, or take an enchanted, holiday-themed trackless train ride.

• Bounce House, Face Painting, and More – The North Hill Christmas Tree Lighting will also feature traditional childhood favorites, including a bounce house and face-painting for the holidays. There will also be arts and crafts for kids, along with balloon twisting to create memorable holiday souvenirs.

• Meet Santa and Watch the Lighting Ceremony – The big moment arrives at 6:00 pm when Santa comes to town for the tree lighting ceremony. Enjoy Christmas carols, watch the 41-foot tree light up in gorgeous colors, and then stick around so that kids can spend some quality time with Santa Claus himself.

• Start Your Shopping at the Vendor Village – Searching for a unique gift for someone on your holiday list? You'll find local vendors offering unique gifts, crafts at Vendor Village during the Tree Lighting Ceremony. Don't miss vendors like Shepard's Way Farms, Edible Art of Raleigh, Bee Happy Essentials, Project Picturesque, and many more.

Life in North Hills

North Hills real estate is popular among Raleigh residents because the neighborhood features everything you need close to home. From fantastic shopping to fun events and cuisine from around the world, North Hills offers a dynamic lifestyle for both work and play. The Commons, the location of the Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, is a gathering place in the neighborhood, with outdoor green space, ample outdoor dining options, and frequent special events throughout the year.

Still searching for the perfect Raleigh home for the holidays? Our local real estate team is here to help. Contact us at Coldwell Banker Howard Perry and Walston to buy, sell, and learn about homes in the Raleigh, NC area.

Thanksgiving marks the start of the holiday season for many Raleigh residents, and there is no shortage of fun, family-friendly activities to enjoy in the city throughout the weekend. Whether you're shopping for Raleigh homes for sale or you already call our city home, Raleigh is a wonderful place to spend the holidays. Our real estate agents have the inside scoop on seven great Thanksgiving weekend activities in the Raleigh area.

Head to Raleigh Over Thanksgiving Weekend

1. Thanksgiving at Ruth's Chris Steak House – 4381 Lassiter at North Hills, Raleigh
   There are quite a few great restaurants open in Raleigh for Thanksgiving, and Ruth's Chris Steak House certainly ranks near the top of the list. Enjoy a delicious, three-course meal prepared by the experts at Ruth's Chris, with all of your favorite Thanksgiving trimmings. And if you're in the mood for something different, you can order from the full dinner menu.
   
   
2. 2018 Inside-Out Sports Turkey Trot -  2002 Grisdale Lane, Cary
   Join Cary residents and visitors at the 2018 Inside-Out Sports Turkey Trot. A perfect way for the entire family to begin their Thanksgiving Day celebration, the Inside-Out Turkey Trot includes a one-mile fun run, an 8K main event, and a Kids Dash. Race morning begins at 7:00 am with the one-mile fun run taking off first at 8:30 am.  Fun contests with opportunities to take home prizes will be part of your day. The Inside-Out Sports Turkey Trot is part of the Second Empire Grand Prix Race Series.
   
   
3. Lake Myra Christmas Lights – 10 S. Cyprus St., Wendell
   The holiday season is just getting started on Thanksgiving, so why not spend the weekend spreading some Christmas cheer? The Lake Myra Christmas Lights show features dazzling, computerized lights, dancing to the tune of your favorite Christmas songs.
    
4. Christmas Carousel – NC State Fairgrounds 1025 Blue Ridge Rd., Raleigh
   Start your Christmas shopping in style at the Christmas Carousel Holiday Gift Market at the NC State Fairgrounds in Raleigh, where you'll find gifts, holiday decorations, and delicious food from more than 250 vendors. Kids will have the chance to enjoy some time with Santa Claus, who will be present at select times all weekend.
   
   
5. North Carolina Chinese Lantern Festival – 8003 Regency Pkwy., Cary
   See the Cary Amphitheatre in a whole new light during the North Carolina Chinese Lantern Festival on Thanksgiving weekend. Walk through half a mile of spectacular lantern displays, and enjoy live cultural performances. There will also be a concession stand serving tasty seasonal treats.
   
   
6. Cut a Christmas Tree at Back Achers Christmas Tree Farm – 4533 Inwood Rd., Raleigh
   Is decorating for Christmas one of your favorite traditions during Thanksgiving weekend? Head to Back Achers Christmas Tree Farm to cut your own Christmas Tree. Kids are encouraged to have fun while you pick the perfect tree, and leashed dogs are welcome at Back Achers.
   
   
7. Gingham and Posh Gift Shopping – 210 Hollyridge Dr., Raleigh
   Searching for a truly unique Christmas gift for someone special? Gingham and Posh offers a wide selection of customized gift baskets, with something for every taste. Gift gourmet foods and delicious treats, or send someone a "Taste of North Carolina" gift basket to remind them of home. Thanksgiving weekend is the perfect time to start shopping at Gingham and Posh.

Still searching for the perfect home where you can enjoy every weekend in Raleigh? Our experienced, local team is here to help. Contact us at Coldwell Banker Howard Perry and Walston to buy and sell homes in Raleigh, NC.

Every year, just before it's time to celebrate Halloween, the people of Holly Springs, NC gather together for a fun-filled day at HollyFest. This year's edition of HollyFest is coming up soon, and as always it will be a day filled with great memories for the whole family. There will be games for the kids, fantastic food for all, and plenty of live entertainment throughout the day. Our real estate agents have the exciting details on what to expect from the events of HollyFest 2018 in Holly Springs, NC.

HollyFest 2018: A Time to Celebrate 

HollyFest 2018

Date/Time: Saturday, October 27, 2018 – 10 am to 4 pm
Location: Jefferson L. Sugg Farm at Bass Lake – 2401 Grigsby Ave., Holly Springs, NC

Celebrate Holly Springs at HollyFest 2018

HollyFest provides an opportunity for people of all ages to experience the businesses, residents, and hospitality that make Holly Springs such a special place to call home. There will be events throughout the day during HollyFest, with something for every person in attendance to enjoy:

Kids Zone and Children's Corner

HollyFest is a great place to bring kids.  It offers so many activities for younger members of the audience to enjoy. Kids Zone is filled with rides and inflatables for children, while Children's Corner will feature events, exhibits, and games. There will also be police and fire vehicles on display throughout the day at HollyFest.

• Live Entertainment and Delicious, Local Food – Stop by for a quick visit, or stay for the whole day – either way, you're likely to encounter live entertainment during HollyFest. You'll also have the opportunity to feast on delicious food from local vendors, with something for every taste.
• Local Vendors and Artisans – While you're enjoying the events at HollyFest, why not fit in some holiday shopping, or bring something special home for yourself? There will be local vendors available throughout the day during the festivities, selling arts, crafts, and unique, hand-made treasures that you won't find anywhere else.
• Learn More about Local Non-Profits and Businesses – HollyFest is an opportunity for the community to get together, and it's a great place to learn about local organizations. Many local businesses will have booths set up for the business expo. Representatives of local non-profit groups will also be on hand to put a spotlight on the charitable work they do in Holly Springs year-round and connect with community members.

Enjoy Beautiful Bass Lake Park throughout the Year

Holly Springs homes for sale put you near a number of excellent outdoor areas, including Bass Lake Park, which is connected to the event space where HollyFest is held. Bass Lake Park is the ideal place to spend a day outdoors, with a well-stocked fishing lake, boat rentals from Memorial Day through Labor Day, and a tackle loaner program that allows you to fish even if you aren't able to bring your own equipment.

Bass Lake Park also features extensive trails and greenways, where you'll have the opportunity to view local wildlife in a peaceful, scenic setting. Jefferson L. Sugg Farm, purchased more recently by the community, offers access to Bass Lake Park, in addition to a large, open space for big events like HollyFest.

HollyFest 2018 is the perfect opportunity to learn why locals love life in Holly Springs and start shopping for a home of your own in the community. Contact us at Coldwell Banker Howard Perry and Walston to buy and sell homes in the Holly Springs, NC area.

The Halloween season is always one of the most exciting times of the year for Cary locals, and this year is no exception. Whether you're looking for a spooky haunted house, community pumpkin carving, a fall festival, or an opportunity to see local landmarks in a new light, there's an event for every interest around Halloween in Cary. Our real estate agents know Cary, and we've got the details on six exciting, upcoming Halloween happenings in the community.

Spooky Family Fun: Six Halloween Happenings in the Cary, NC Area 

1. Pumpkin Flotilla at Bond Park – 801 High House Rd., Cary, NC 27513
   Carve your most creative pumpkin design, then watch your creation take to the season Bond Park Lake. The Pumpkin Flotilla at Bond Park is a truly unique event, as carved pumpkins, glowing brightly, meander their way across the water. There will be refreshments available, along with discounted boat rides for anyone who enters a pumpkin or arrives in their finest Halloween costume.
   
   
2. Herbert's Haunted House – 101 Wilkinson Ave., Cary, NC 27513
   You won't find Herbert's Haunted House on the list of Cary homes for sale and that's probably a good thing. Held at the Herbert C. Young Community Center, Herbert's Haunted House is a fun, spooky event, organized by the Cary Teen Council. See your favorite community center in a whole new light, as Cary's teens put their imaginations to work to create a scary Halloween experience for everyone in attendance.
   
   
3. Fall for Cary Festival – Academy and West Chatham Streets in Cary, NC
   Enjoy a taste of everything that makes life special in Cary, at the Fall for Cary Festival. Held annually around Halloween, Fall for Cary is a fun, community-focused event for the whole family. Shop for local arts and crafts, visit local businesses, enter the costume contest, enjoy live performances, or even have your face painted to celebrate the season. There is a ton to do at the Fall for Cary Festival every year, with activities for all ages.
   
   
4. Zombiepalooza – 122 E. Chatham St., Cary, NC 27511
   Every zombie has a story, and Zombiepalooza is a truly unique celebration of all things zombie-related. Enjoy more than a dozen short films from local filmmakers, check out some of the best zombie costumes in Cary, and maybe even win some prizes to take home. Zombiepalooza is a fun, free event to celebrate Halloween in Cary this year.
   
   
5. Cary's Great Pumpkin Carve – 319 S. Academy St., Cary, NC 27511
   Pick a perfect pumpkin from the pumpkin patch, then visit a carving station to create something special for Halloween. Cary's Great Pumpkin Carve is an opportunity to enjoy one of everyone's favorite Halloween traditions, and spend some quality time with the community. After the pumpkin carving is complete, there will be family-friendly Halloween films shown indoors.
   
   
6. Mall Crawl at Cary Towne Center – 1105 Walnut St., Cary, NC 27511
   Get ready for a day of family fun with the Mall Crawl at Cary Towne Center. This event is a great chance for kids to get dressed up in their favorite Halloween costume and enjoy an afternoon filled with special memories. The Mall Crawl at Cary Towne Center will include trick-or-treating, Halloween stories, and even a magic show to top off a fun-filled day.

No matter the season, there is always something exciting coming up on the special events calendar in the Cary area. Contact us at Coldwell Banker Howard Perry and Walston to buy and sell homes in Cary, NC.

Are you ready to celebrate the many things that make living in North Carolina so special? It's almost time once again for the North Carolina State Fair to visit the Raleigh area, with this year's edition of the fair looking bigger and better than ever. The NC State Fair is a family-friendly event, filled with food, rides, attractions, live performances, and a healthy dose of North Carolina hospitality. Attendance at the fair seems to rise every year, and the last few editions of the NC State Fair have each drawn more than a million visitors to the area. Our real estate agents are here to help you prepare for the fun, with our guide to the North Carolina State Fair.

The North Carolina State Fair

Dates: October 11-21, 2018 – Gates Open at 8:00 am
Location: NC State Fairgrounds – 1025 Blue Ridge Road, Raleigh, NC 27607
Admission: Tickets Available 24/7 Online or In Person on Fair Days

Rides, Attractions, and Carnival Games for All Ages

The NC State Fair features a great mix of fun and educational attractions, perfect for keeping every member of the family entertained. There will be rides for all ages at the fair, with a special focus on creating memories for the youngest members of the audience. Take a ride on the Crazy Coaster, get a birds-eye view on the Ferris Wheel, explore the Magic Maze Glass House, or try one of the dozens of fun rides around the fairgrounds. There are carnival games as well, with loads of fun prizes to be won.

Enjoy a "Homegrown" North Carolina Lineup of Live Performances

The NC State Fair is about celebrating everything that makes our state special, and the "homegrown" live performance lineup features artists from throughout North Carolina, including:

• American Aquarium
• Rhett and Link
• Bucky Covington
• Britton Buchanan
• Many More

Admission to all of the live music performances is included with your fair admission, so you can sit back and enjoy the show.

Fantastic Food at the NC State Fair

You're sure to work up an appetite exploring the rides, attractions, and live performances at the North Carolina State Fair, so why not satisfy your hunger with some of the best food in the state? The lineup of food vendors at the NC State Fair is a mile long and features something for every taste. Try some classic Carolina barbecue, sample the freshest seafood, try international dishes from around the world, and top it off with a trip to one of the many unique dessert vendors stationed throughout the fair.

Competitions to Name North Carolina's Best

Shopping for Raleigh homes for sale allows you to enjoy the best of North Carolina throughout the year, and the NC State Fair features competitions to name North Carolina's best. The schedule includes a graphic design competition, arts, and crafts, baking, clothing, flowers, produce and even writing. There are also a ton of cooking competitions going on throughout the festivities, perfect for trying a taste of something new. Capping it all off will be a series of livestock competitions and horse shows, where participants will show off all of the hard work they've been putting in all year long.

Would you like to find the perfect home in Raleigh, so that you can enjoy all of the exciting events in the city throughout the year? Contact us at Coldwell Banker Howard Perry and Walston to buy and sell homes in Raleigh, NC.

100 bands, seven stages, and one unforgettable bluegrass music festival in Raleigh, all benefiting a great cause. It's almost time for the Wide Open Bluegrass Festival to return to Downtown Raleigh, and this year's event is set to be bigger than ever. The main stage at the Red Hat Amphitheater will feature some of the biggest names in bluegrass music, while there will also be tons of free shows and activities throughout the city during the festival. Our real estate agents have all the details on what to expect from this year's Wide Open Bluegrass Festival in Raleigh, NC. 

The Sweet Sounds of Bluegrass in Raleigh, NC

The Event: The Wide Open Bluegrass Festival

Location: Downtown Raleigh

Dates: September 28-29, 2018 from Noon to 11 pm

Catch the Biggest Names in Bluegrass at the Red Hat Amphitheater

You'll find both free and paid events taking place throughout the Wide Open Bluegrass Festival, and the main stage at the Red Hat Amphitheater is the place to be for some of the biggest names in bluegrass music. Enjoy shows from Ricky Skaggs & Kentucky Thunder, Patty Loveless, The Wide Open Jam, the Gibson Brothers, the Trust, Chatham County Line, and many, many more. The main stage features performances throughout the event, and you can purchase tickets ahead of time to ensure that you get the perfect seat to watch your favorite artists.

All shows on the main stage take place in a gorgeous, outdoor setting, and the whole event is designed to be as family-friendly as possible. The music is a highlight of course, but the atmosphere is a big reason why Raleigh residents keep flocking back to the Wide Open Bluegrass Festival each year. Whether you're a bluegrass aficionado or love live music, you'll feel right at home during the festival.

Proceeds Benefit the Bluegrass Trust Fund – a Good Cause for Bluegrass Musicians

While shows on the main stage do have an admission price, a significant portion of the proceeds will be going to bluegrass musicians in need. The Bluegrass Trust Fund is a non-profit dedicated to providing financial assistance to professional bluegrass musicians with emergencies, and up to half of the proceeds from shows on the main stage will go toward supporting the organization. Enjoy a weekend of fabulous music, and support a good cause in the process.

Free Events and Sensational Shows Downtown during the Wide Open Bluegrass Festival

There's always affordable fun close to home when you shop for Raleigh homes for sale, and the Wide Open Bluegrass Festival is an excellent example of why that's the case. Start by checking out the free StreetFest music schedule, which features both well-known and emerging bluegrass artists playing on stages throughout Downtown Raleigh. There's even a youth stage, where both kids and parents alike can enjoy the work of young bluegrass artists, and find some inspiration for their musical interests in the process. The Exhibit Hall is the perfect place to catch up on the latest on all things bluegrass, and you'll also have excellent opportunities to learn tips from bluegrass experts throughout the weekend's events.

The Wide Open Bluegrass Festival is one of many memorable annual events held in Raleigh, and there's never been a better time to find your own home in the city. Contact us at Coldwell Banker Howard Perry and Walston to buy and sell homes throughout the Raleigh, NC area.

There's nothing quite like waking up on a Saturday morning to enjoy the sights, sounds, and flavors of a local farmers market.  Our very own Cary Downtown Farmers Market consistently ranks as one of the best in the region. Open every Saturday morning, the Cary Downtown Farmers Market features a wide selection of local vendors, with fresh ingredients, prepared food, arts, crafts, and tons of great gifts. There are also special events, like the annual Fall Farmers Festival. It's a great example of what makes life in Cary special, and our real estate agents have all the details on what you can expect at the Cary Downtown Farmers Market.

Fresh, Local Cary: Experience the Cary Farmers Market and Farmers Fall Festival 

The Cary Downtown Farmers Market
Location: 135 W. Chatham St., Cary, NC 27511
Hours: Saturdays from 8:00 am to 12:30 pm

Purchase Fresh Food and Support Local Vendors

Whether you're searching for fresh produce, meat, poultry, or anything else that can be produced by a local farm, the Cary Downtown Farmers Market has you covered. The market is loaded with unique local vendors, including farms, coffee shops, bakeries, and local artisans. You can buy soap, honey, candles, pottery, and even gourmet dog treats. It's a great place to pick up a unique gift or grab ingredients for creating a fabulous meal at home. The Cary Downtown Farmers Market also offers a wide selection of prepared food, from some of the community's favorite food vendors.

A Farmers Market for the Winter, Too!

In many towns, the farmers market is something to be enjoyed during only the spring and summer months. But that's not the case in Cary. The Cary Downtown Farmers Market is open during the winter, too, and still offers a great selection of vendors during the cold-weather season. Swing by the market during the holidays to start your holiday shopping.

Annual Events at the Cary Downtown Farmers Market

There's no off-season at the Cary Downtown Farmers Market, and the special events schedule at the market is a big reason why that's the case. September and October are big months for the market, with the Annual Farmers Fall Festival followed by International Day. During International Day, the market features flavors from across the world, inspired by the diverse residents who call Cary home. The Holiday Market, which runs every November, is the perfect place to shop for holiday gifts from all of your favorite local vendors. Keep an eye on the schedule throughout the summer as well, because you never know when the next new event will be coming to the Cary Downtown Farmers Market.

Enjoy the Farmers Fall Festival

The Farmers Fall Festival, which happens every year at the close of summer, is always one of the biggest events of the year at the Cary Downtown Farmers Market. This year's event takes place on September 29, 2018, and it's the perfect place to celebrate the start of the fall season. Enjoy live entertainment, food trucks, farming and crafting demos, kid-friendly attractions, and even a pie-eating contest. The Farmers Fall Festival offers something for every member of the family to enjoy, just like the community of Cary itself.

Are you searching for Cary homes for sale, so that you can enjoy all of the great local attractions in the area? Our team of local real estate experts is here to help. Contact us at Coldwell Banker Howard Perry and Walston to buy and sell homes throughout the Cary, NC area.

Located along the Neuse River in Clayton, NC, the Portofino Equestrian Community is a planned community unlike any other you'll find in the area. Portofino is known for its outstanding equestrian facilities, beautiful outdoor spaces, large lots, and lovely homes. Residents love the unique perks of living in the community and being part of the booming equestrian industry in the Clayton area.  Our real estate agents are here to tell you all about life in the Portofino Equestrian Community.

The Best of Clayton Real Estate: Portofino Equestrian Community

The Portofino Equestrian Community | 25 Paraggi Court, Clayton, NC 27527

Shop for Homes in "A Community Like No Other"

Homes for sale in the Clayton real estate market take advantage of the area's beautiful natural scenery.  The Portofino Equestrian Community is an excellent example of why that's the case. Portofino homes for sale are available with price points and floor plans that will appeal to nearly every buyer. Most homes in the community feature at least four bedrooms and three full baths, along with all of the modern amenities you'd expect from a luxury community like Clayton.  Within Portofino, you'll find everything from cozy family homes to large, luxurious listings, all with easy access to the many equestrian amenities that the community has to offer.

Explore the Portofino Equestrian Center

While the neighborhood has tons of great amenities, the Portofino Equestrian Center is an attraction for many residents. The center features a 22-stall barn, with loads of luxurious touches for both you and your horse:

Learn from world-class trainers Aaron Stuckey-Hill and Emily Baille, Portofino's two on-site trainers. There are 90-minute lessons available with both trainers, for riders of all skill levels.

Practice makes perfect, and Portofino offers outstanding facilities to practice your riding skills. Within Portofino, you'll find two dressage arenas, a jumping arena, warm-up facilities, wash stalls, and a conditioning track.

Enjoy a busy schedule of events, clinics, and shows at the Portofino Equestrian Center throughout the year. There are opportunities to show off your riding skills, learn from visiting experts, and watch some of the best riders in the world demonstrate their craft.

Looking for the perfect place to board your horse? The Portofino Equestrian Center offers unmatched boarding services, allowing your horse to learn and grow in a truly luxurious environment, where every need is attended to by expert staff. Both you and your horse can expect only the best from Portofino.

Other Amenities in the Portofino Equestrian Community

The state-of-the-art equestrian center is a big attraction for Portofino residents, but it's just one of many amenities that you will find when you live in the community. Portofino is also a perfect place to spend time outdoors, with extensive nature and riding trails running throughout the community. You can also enjoy some quality time on the water because Portofino offers canoe and kayak access to the Neuse River. The Portofino Community Pool is the perfect place to spend a summer day with friends, and the pool facilities are designed to be as family-friendly as possible. Capping it all of is the Portofino Recreation Center, where residents can relax and enjoy the fabulous hospitality that defines life in Portofino.

Are you ready to become a member of one of Clayton's unique neighborhoods, with unmatched equestrian amenities? Contact us at Coldwell Banker Howard Perry and Walston to buy and sell homes in Portofino, and throughout the Clayton, NC area.

An excellent park system is one of the many perks of living in Raleigh, NC, and Pullen Park regularly ranks as one of the most popular parks in the city. With a lake, amusements, aquatic center, theater, and arts center, Pullen Park offers something for every member of the family to enjoy. The park even connects to the East Coast Greenway, a 3,000-mile trail system that spans the entire coast. Our real estate agents have all the details on why parents and kids both love spending time at Pullen Park in Raleigh, NC.

Amusements, Outdoor Entertainment, and Family Fun at Pullen Park 

The History of Pullen Park

Pullen Park has been one of Raleigh's most popular outdoor family destinations for generations and was established in 1887. Spanning 66 acres, Pullen Park is home to the fifth oldest amusement park in the United States, with a location right next to the North Carolina State University campus. Raleigh resident Richard Stanhope Pullen donated the land for the park.  Pullen Park was the first public park in North Carolina.

Enjoy the Pullen Park Amusements

Kids love coming to Pullen Park, and the amusement rides are a big reason why that's the case. With a gorgeous carousel donated in 1911, a kid-sized train, and kiddie boats, Pullen Park's amusements have been delighting local kids for more than a century. There is no admission cost to visit the park, and tickets for the rides are very affordable.

Paddleboats on Lake Howell

Kids also love hitting the water on paddleboats, which are available for rental around Lake Howell at Pullen Park. Paddleboat rentals are available by the half-hour, and at least one rider must be over 16 years of age to rent a boat.

The Pullen Park Aquatic Center

Outdoor fun isn't all that you'll find at Pullen Park, which is also home to one of Raleigh's best indoor aquatic centers. The Pullen Park Aquatic Center features an Olympic-sized pool, where you can enjoy swimming competitions, get a great workout, or sign the kids up for swimming lessons. There are also exercise classes available, and the Pullen Park Aquatic Center is open year-round.

Arts and Culture at Pullen Park

Shopping for Raleigh homes for sale means that you'll always have easy access to the arts, and Pullen Park features a number of artistic attractions to enjoy. The Pullen Arts Center, added to the park in 1961, is a great place to visit for family-friendly classes, events, and summer camps, with art classes available for people of all skill levels. You'll also find a fantastic schedule of live entertainment at the Theatre in the Park, an indoor performance venue located on the north side of Pullen Park. The theater features new shows throughout every season, as well as a beautiful outdoor garden where you can relax after the show.

Summer Concert Series at Pullen Park

The Theatre in the Park isn't the only place that you'll find live entertainment at Pullen Park, and the Summer Concert Series is the perfect opportunity to enjoy your favorite songs at one of Raleigh's favorite outdoor destinations. There are five concerts scheduled throughout the summer at Pullen Park, with a diverse collection of artists that the whole family can enjoy.

Are you searching for the right family home in Raleigh, where you can enjoy all of the parks, attractions, and entertainment that the city has to offer? Contact us at Coldwell Banker Howard Perry and Walston to buy and sell homes throughout the Raleigh, NC area.

Summer is just a little sweeter when you live in Cary, NC.  The Lazy Daze Arts and Crafts Festival is always one of the most significant events of the season. With shopping, food, fun games, and entertainment, Lazy Daze offers something for every member of the family to enjoy. This year's event marks the 42nd annual edition of Lazy Daze, with a packed schedule of events all weekend long. Our real estate agents have all the details on what to expect from the Lazy Days Arts and Crafts Festival.

Fun for All Ages in Cary, NC 

The Event: Lazy Days Arts & Crafts Festival
When: Saturday, August 25, 9 am - 6 pm; Sunday, August 26, 12:30 pm - 5 pm
Where: Town Hall Campus, 316 N Academy St., Cary

Explore the Artist Gallery Including Featured Artist Roxanna Jo Alexander

The Lazy Days Arts & Crafts Festival is a celebration of all types of art from painting and sculptures to unique furniture. The festival features digital art, drawing, glass, photography, woodworking, painting, mixed media, and handcrafted leather. Each edition of the event also celebrates a featured artist with well-known local painter Roxanna Jo Alexander of R.J. Artworks taking center stage this year.

Fantastic Food from Local Vendors

There's so much to do at Lazy Daze; you're sure to work up an appetite. Lazy Daze food vendors offer flavors from around the world including barbecue, seafood, bistro, fresh food from local farms--not to mention tons of delicious desserts. Local vendors always bring out their best for the festival every summer, and every member of the family will find something to love on the menu.

Making Memories at Kids World and the Play Zone

The Lazy Days Arts and Crafts Festival is an event for all ages, and kids will love exploring two large areas designed just for them. Kids World, located outdoors, features arts, crafts, toys, games, and live, kid-friendly entertainment. Kids World is set up in the Page-Walker Arts and History Center Gardens close to the rest of the action at Lazy Daze. The Play Zone, located in the Herb Young Community Center, is focused on games and athletic activities.

Not-to-Miss Activities and Exciting Entertainment

There will be activities for all ages from tracking down Lazy Daze mascot Little Jerry to watching live demonstrations from various local Artist Guilds. Turn back the clock by getting your news from the Lazy Days Town Crier, and take in some great live entertainment from the crew at the Cary Theater in the Town Council Chambers. On the morning of August 25, you'll also have the opportunity to assist artist Michael Roy Layne in assembling an outdoor art creation.

An Annual Event that Brings the Community of Cary Together

When you shop for Cary homes for sale, you're getting so much more than just a great home. Events like the Lazy Daze Arts and Crafts Festival are great examples of how the community comes together to celebrate all of the little things making Cary a great place to live. No matter the season, you'll find fun events and friendly faces when you live in Cary.

Still searching for the perfect place to call your own, where you can enjoy all the events and attractions that Cary has to offer? Contact Coldwell Banker Howard Perry and Walston to buy and sell homes throughout the Cary, NC area.

Known as the "Town of Friendly People," Zebulon, NC truly delivers the quintessential American hometown experience. This is the sort of town where it's a pleasure getting to know your neighbors, and where big, local events bring the whole community together. Zebulon is located just a short drive east from the city of Raleigh, with tons of great attractions and an easy commute to other exciting communities within the Research Triangle region. Our real estate agents have all the details on why Zebulon, NC is the perfect example of an appealing North Carolina hometown.

Getting to Know Zebulon, North Carolina

Like many North Carolina towns, Zebulon, NC was originally built up around a railroad stop, and over time grew from a tiny town to a dynamic, welcoming community. The town is now home to about 4,750 residents and has been growing quickly in recent years. All of those new residents find plenty of reasons to love calling Zebulon, NC home.

History, Art & Attractions

The history of Zebulon begins in 1907 when the community was first planned, and you can still find great examples of that history today. Zebulon's town hall, which opened in 1909, is located in a historic schoolhouse, with tours available. In the present day, residents of Zebulon love visiting Five County Stadium for Carolina Mudcats games. The Mudcats are the Single-A affiliate of the Milwaukee Brewers, and Five County Stadium is the perfect place to take the family on a warm summer night.

You'll also find plenty of great places to shop within the community, including a farmer's market that brings the best of North Carolina to your dinner table. The Zebulon Farm Fresh Market is open every Saturday from April through October, with fresh, local food always on the menu.

Parks, Playgrounds & Outdoor Fun

Within Zebulon, there are a ton of great places to both spend time outdoors and connect with the community. Zebulon is home to six parks, each with something unique to offer. Zebulon Community Park is the largest in town, with athletic fields, disc golf, playgrounds, and a walking trail. Smaller parks like Whitley Park and Little River Park are great places to relax, with ample natural beauty to enjoy. The community offers exercise classes, athletic leagues, summer camps, and picnic rentals so that you can enjoy whatever moves you outdoors.

Historic Homes in Zebulon, NC

When you're shopping for Zebulon homes for sale, you'll have no shortage of unique options to choose from in the community. One of the first things you'll notice is that Zebulon homes tend to be affordable, and you get a lot of home for your money. The community features everything from historic homes to brand new construction, with ample yard space and beautiful, tree-lined properties. Families love the mix of affordable homes, nearby attractions, and convenient location that Zebulon offers.

A Convenient Location in the Research Triangle

When you buy a house in Zebulon, you're not just gaining access to one great North Carolina community. You'll also have an easy commute to other exciting communities throughout the Research Triangle. Raleigh is just a short drive from your home in Zebulon, making it easy to work and play in the city while enjoying still the enjoying the quintessential North Carolina hometown experience when you head back home for the day.

Are you ready to start shopping for your quintessential home, in North Carolina's quintessential hometown? Contact us at Coldwell Banker Howard Perry and Walston to buy and sell homes throughout the Zebulon, NC area.

Your next outdoor adventure is never far from home when you live in Mebane, NC, and Lake Michael Park is the perfect example of why that's the case. With fishing, trails, boat rides, playgrounds, and picnic areas, you'll find everything that you need for a day packed with family fun. Lake Michael Park covers a total of 200 acres and includes a large, 59-acre lake that is always well-stocked with a variety of fish. Our real estate agents have all the details on the fun you can have at Lake Michael Park, and what you should know before you arrive.

Lake Michael Park: Outdoor Family Fun Close to Home in Mebane, NC

Lake Michael Park

Location: 7300 Lebanon Road Mebane, NC
Hours: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday 7:30 am to 7:30 pm, Sunday 1:30 pm to 7:30 pm

Enjoy Fantastic Fishing at Lake Michael Park

Lake Michael is the central attraction of the park, and the gorgeous views that you'll find around the lake are just one reason why. There's also plenty of action going on beneath the water's surface. Lake Michael is stocked with bass, crappie, and bream, with two large fishing piers where you can drop lines in the water underneath the summer sun.

You're also welcome to pick your own spot along the banks, and fish to your heart's content. Just be aware that a fishing license is required to fish here, and you can pick up it online for convenience. You'll also want to bring your own fishing equipment, which you can pick up from nearby retailers.

Affordable Family Fun on the Water

Shopping for Mebane homes for sale means you'll never have to travel far for affordable family fun, and Lake Michael Park offers plenty of it. Enjoy a ride on a pontoon boat for just $1, rent a Jon boat that you can pilot yourself for $4, or ride a paddle boat for only $1 per person. You can also launch your own boat into the beautiful, 59-acre lake for a flat $4 fee. Children especially enjoy exploring the lake on paddle boats, and rentals are free for children under six years of age.

Playgrounds and Trails for Outdoor Exploration

Fun on the water isn't the only thing that you'll find at Lake Michael Park, because there's also tons of outdoor scenery to explore. There are two marked trails which will take you around the park, along with a pair of well-maintained playgrounds perfect for keeping the kids entertained. Playgrounds at Lake Michael Park offer ample tree coverage, so you can watch from the shade while the kids have a great time. You'll also find beach volleyball areas around the park, and plenty of room to enjoy your favorite outdoor activities.

Picnics, Events, and Food at Lake Michael Park

Feeling a bit peckish after a day filled with outdoor fun? No problem! At Lake Michael Park, you can set up a picnic at one of many outdoor tables, or rent a picnic shelter for as little as $10. Picnic shelters are outfitted with grills and all of the space you need to enjoy a great time outdoors. If you're looking for a quick snack, you can also stop by the Visitor's Center to pick up some refreshments. Calling ahead and making a reservation is always a good idea if you're planning an event at Lake Michael Park.

Still searching for the perfect home, with easy access to all of the outdoor attractions around Mebane, NC? Contact Coldwell Banker Howard Perry and Walston to buy and sell homes throughout the Mebane, NC area.

Whether you're looking for the perfect place to test your skills, learn the game of golf, enjoy warm, summer days outdoors, or grab a great meal, you'll find it close to home in Goldsboro. The Lane Tree Golf Club in Goldsboro, NC offers 18 holes of world-class golf, and that's just the start of what you'll find at the facility. There's also an elegant clubhouse with excellent food, a pool that's perfect for cooling off after a hot round, and a schedule of special events that will appeal to every member of the family. Our real estate agents have all of the exciting details about the Lane Tree Golf Club in Goldsboro, NC.

Great Golf and So Much More Close to Home in Goldsboro

Where: The Lane Tree Golf Course
Address: 2317 Salem Church Road, Goldsboro, NC

Lane Tree Golf Course -18 Holes of World-Class Golf

While there are many attractions to be found around the grounds, there's no doubt that the golf course is still the crown jewel at Lane Tree. Designed by renowned course architect John Lafoy, the Lane Tree Golf Course is tailored to be challenging for experienced golfers, and welcoming for newcomers. The course plays to a par of 72 and measures 7,016 yards from the back tees. The green, rolling landscape makes for beautiful scenery, with especially good views from high points around the course.

There's plenty of water to be found around the course, with 15 lakes and ponds spread around Lane Tree. The course blends Scottish links-style design with traditional Southern design to create a truly memorable layout that you will love to visit again and again.

The Fabulous Flavors of the Lane Tree Golf Course Grill

You won't have any trouble finding fantastic food when you shop for Goldsboro homes for sale, and the Lane Tree Golf Club Grill is a great example of the delicious dining you'll find in the area. Enjoy a great meal after you work up an appetite playing 18 holes, or stop by anytime you're in the mood for something delicious. The Lane Tree Golf Club Grill features steak night every Thursday, and a seafood buffet every Friday afternoon. It's also a great place for a party or a corporate gathering.

Stay Cool at the Lane Tree Golf Course Pool

Playing a round of golf under the summer sun is a great experience, but you may find yourself looking for a way to cool off when your round is done. Simply head over to the pool at Lane Tree Golf Course, which opens at the end of May and provides the perfect place to cool off during the summer months. When you do head to the pool, you'll likely find plenty of friends who are doing the same.

Special Events at the Lane Tree Golf Course

Whether you're looking to play in a fun tournament, enjoy a great meal in the clubhouse, or celebrate a holiday, there's always something new coming up on the calendar at the Lane Tree Golf Course. You'll find tournaments for various skill levels on the calendar every month, as well as fun social events that bring the community together. The Lane Tree Golf Course is also an ideal place to host an event of your own, and a popular place for weddings in the Goldsboro, NC area.

Are you searching for the perfect home close to greatest golf courses that North Carolina has to offer? We can help! Contact us at Coldwell Banker Howard Perry and Walston to buy and sell homes throughout the Goldsboro, NC area.

From special events to daily delights, there are a ton of reasons to love calling the community of Apex, NC home. You'll find something fun to do in Apex during every season, with activities that every member of the family will enjoy. Our real estate agents have all of the exciting details on ten things you definitely won't want to miss in Apex, NC.

10 Things Not to Miss in Apex, NC

1. Apex PeakFest
   Every year, the people of Apex come together to celebrate PeakFest, and Salem Street is transformed into one big festival. Shop from local vendors, grab some great food and enjoy family-friendly entertainment throughout the day at PeakFest.
   
   
2. Halle Cultural Arts Center
   The Halle Cultural Arts Center is the place to be for arts and culture in Apex, with classes, performances, and plenty of opportunities to get involved first-hand. Enjoy a show with the family, or volunteer at the Center to support the arts in Apex.
   
   
3. Saturday Morning Farmers Market
   Have a craving for something fresh, or searching for the perfect ingredients to create a meal of your own? The Apex Farmers Market is the place to be every Saturday morning during the spring and summer, as well as one Saturday per month during the winter.
   
   
4. The Maynard-Pearson House
   There is history to be found everywhere you go in Apex Hill, and the Apex Historical Society does a fantastic job of bringing that history to life. The Maynard-Pearson House is the home-base of the Apex Historical Society, with a unique history of its own and fascinating exhibits to explore.
   
   
5. Holiday Historic Homes Tour
   During the holiday season, the Apex Historical Society offers the opportunity to tour some of the community's most historic homes. While these homes won't be popping up on the list of Apex Hill homes for sale anytime soon, exploring them is a great way to enjoy some quality time with the family during the holidays.
   
   
6. Apex Nature Park
   Explore the outdoors, get in a great workout, or simply sit back, relax, and enjoy the sights at Apex Nature Park. The park includes an amphitheater, trail system, disc golf, and a dog park for your four-legged friends.
   
   
7. Knights Play Golf Center
   In most towns, you can go golfing in the day, or not at all, but Apex is a bit different thanks to the Knights Play Golf Center. This brightly lit, 27-hole course is open until midnight, and playing golf under the lights is a truly unique experience that you won't find in many other communities.
   
   
8. Moon & Lola
   Searching for the perfect gift, or the perfect treat for yourself? Stop by Moon & Lola to shop for unique, personalized jewelry that you won't find anywhere else.
   
   
9. Historic Downtown Apex
   Not sure what you're in the mood to do? No problem! Just head to Historic Downtown Apex, where you'll find local businesses, historic buildings, special events, and the Apex Train Depot, which doubles as a historical museum.
   
   
10. Anna's Pizzeria
    You'll find plenty of excellent places to grab a meal throughout Apex, and Anna's Pizzeria is a great example of why that's the case. In addition to delicious, New York-style pizzas, Anna's offers the sort of friendly, thoughtful service that you'll find in so many of Apex's local small businesses.

Ready to start shopping for homes near all of the great attractions in Apex with the help of an experienced, local real estate team? Contact us at Coldwell Banker Howard Perry and Walston to buy and sell homes throughout the Apex, NC area.

Every year, visitors and residents of Raleigh, NC head downtown for a truly unique type of rodeo, where food and fun come together for a truly unique dining experience. The Downtown Raleigh Food Truck Rodeo is an awesome opportunity to enjoy some of the best food that the Research Triangle has to offer, support local businesses, and learn why so many residents of the Triangle love visiting food trucks in their favorite communities. Our real estate agents have all of the details on this exciting event in Raleigh, along with a closer look at why food trucks have become such a popular part of culinary life in the community. 

Raleigh Is All Revved Up for the 2018 Downtown Raleigh Food Truck Rodeo

When you shop Raleigh homes for sale, you can rest assured that you'll never be far from a great meal. The Downtown Raleigh Food Truck Rodeo is a fantastic opportunity to sample the city's culinary culture, and there are four opportunities to enjoy the Food Truck Rodeo throughout the summer.

The 2018 Downtown Raleigh Food Truck Rodeo

Where: Fayetteville Street, Raleigh, NC
Dates and Times: May 6 (12-6 PM), June 10 (12-6 PM), August 5 (3-9 PM), October 14 (12-6 PM)
Admission: The Food Truck Rodeo Is a Free Event, with Ample Outdoor Seating

Enjoy Unique Flavors from Raleigh and Beyond at the 2018 Food Truck Rodeo

If you've never been to the Downtown Raleigh Food Truck Rodeo before, our first advice is to make sure you shop up hungry. There is simply so much to try, with food trucks coming from across the state of North Carolina to showcase their unique culinary creations.

• The Downtown Raleigh Food Truck Rodeo is a big event, with food trucks covering more than a half-mile stretch on Fayetteville Street in Raleigh. In total, the Food Truck Rodeo spans 11 city blocks, with food drawing on cultures from across the world.

• The Food Truck Rodeo is also a great chance to get out and spend some time with the community in your favorite city. There are more than 1,000 seats set up around the food truck area, so you can sit down, enjoy a meal with friends old and new, and trade tips on the best food trucks at the event.

• Wondering what sort of dining options will be on the menu for this year's Food Truck Rodeo? Don't worry, there's a map for that. On that map, you'll find a list of food trucks that offer everything from baguettes to Philly cheesesteaks, with plenty of sweet, savory dessert options on the menu as well.

Why Food Trucks Have Quickly Become a Beloved Part of Life in the Research Triangle

While food trucks have been around in North Carolina for a long time, the number of food trucks and food truck-themed events has certainly seen a sharp rise in recent years. College campuses like the NC State University play a big role in that popularity, as food trucks offer college students an affordable way to get a unique, creative meal on campus. These days, you'll find food trucks in any place where people congregate, whether in high-traffic work areas, at special events, or at festivals like the Downtown Raleigh Food Truck Rodeo. Raleigh is a foodie's dream, and food trucks are a big reason why that's the case.

Are you ready to find a home that makes it easy to enjoy all of the fabulous flavors and exciting attractions that Raleigh has to offer? Contact us at Coldwell Banker Howard Perry and Walston to buy and sell homes throughout the Raleigh, NC area.

Running through the heart of Chapel Hill, you will find a street that is filled with culture, entertainment, food, and fun for all ages. Franklin Street has been a hub of the city since the University of North Carolina was established in the 1790s, when the street consisted of little more than a few homes, stores, and public buildings. Today, Franklin Street is a great place to find food, fun, and entertainment for the whole family, and our real estate agents have all of the details on Chapel Hill's favorite street.  

Food, Fun, History & Entertainment on Franklin Street

The Franklin Street dates back to those humble beginnings in the 1790s when the street was named for Benjamin Franklin. Over the years, more businesses, attractions, and public facilities have been added to the area, but the historic charm of Franklin Street has always remained. Businesses on Franklin Street serve students at the University of North Carolina, as well as residents from throughout the city.

Fantastic Food for Every Taste

The city of Chapel Hill wants Franklin Street to keep its unique, local feel and encourages small businesses to lay down roots in the area, rather than big chains. That leads to a fantastic collection of local restaurants, which have been serving the city for decades. Grab a breakfast you'll never forget at Ye Olde Waffle Shoppe, savor a tasty frozen treat at the Yogurt Pump, or enjoy a hot, delicious cup of coffee at the Carolina Coffee Shop. Whatever you crave, you'll find it on Franklin Street.

Family Fun at the Morehead Planetarium and Science Center

Did you know that Franklin Street is home to one of the first training facilities for NASA astronauts? The Morehead Planetarium and Science Center is one of Franklin Street's biggest attractions, with programs for kids, teens, adults, families, and everyone in between. Immerse yourself in the history of spaceflight, or take in one of the many dazzling shows that the planetarium has to offer.

Explore the History of Chapel Hill

Whether you're visiting a business, restaurant, cultural destination, or performance venue on Franklin Street, you'll be exploring the history of Chapel Hill first-hand. Many of local businesses on Franklin Street are family-owned and have been here for generations. Historic buildings from throughout Chapel Hill's history still stand, and there are unique stories to be discovered all along Franklin Street. The University of North Carolina is also a huge part of Franklin Street history, with both students and the university itself supporting many cultural initiatives in the area.

Entertainment, Art, and Culture on Franklin Street

Do you love exploring the arts and culture scene of your home city? Then there's no doubt that Franklin Street is the place to be. Enjoy a unique spin on art at the Gypsy Hill Tattoo and Art Gallery or explore unique exhibits from local artists at Light Art + Design. The Varsity Theatre on Franklin Street has been a local landmark for more than 50 years, with both new and classic movies on the big screen. You can combine art and live performances at Current Artspace + Studio, which offers shows that truly get the audience involved. The art galleries along Franklin Street do a great job of supporting local artists, while also showcasing the work of talented artists from across the world.

Searching for a home in the heart of Chapel Hill, close to all of the action on Franklin Street? Contact Coldwell Banker Howard Perry and Walston to buy and sell homes throughout Chapel Hill, NC.

Fuquay-Varina, NC is located in Wake County, just a short drive southwest from the city of Raleigh. While you'll have easy access to the big city, you'll also find everything you need to live, work, and play close to home in Fuquay-Varina. The community is home to two dynamic downtowns, a healthy economy, loads of unique local businesses, and more than enough attractions to keep every member of the family entertained. Our real estate agents have all the details on why Fuquay-Varina is such a popular place to call home.

Live, Play, Work in Fuquay-Varina, NC

Plenty to Do in Fuquay-Varina 

Whether you're looking for a great meal, a fun community event, or a chance to shop locally, you'll find it all in Fuquay-Varina's two downtown areas. With everything from art galleries to tattoo shops, you won't need to travel far to find what you need in the community. The downtown areas are also the place to be for special events, and there are plenty of fun ones on the calendar. Since Fuquay-Varina was actually created from two separate communities, you get the unique perk of having two downtowns to explore, within one great community.

Enjoy Arts and Culture Close to Home

The arts are an important part of life in Fuquay-Varina, with plenty of events, art galleries, and concerts to enjoy in the community. You can visit Ashley's Art Gallery or Magnolia House to see work from local artists and enjoy the sweet sounds of local musicians at the Follow Me 2 Fuquay-Varina Concert Series. The Fuquay-Varina Arts Center, which is expected to open its doors in the summer of 2018, is set to become a hub of arts in the community, with classes, exhibits, events, and more.

A Home to Match Every Buyer and Budget

Are you ready to start loving life in Fuquay-Varina? Then you'll have plenty of great options to choose from when you shop for Fuquay-Varina homes for sale. With luxury listings that are sure to impress and single-family homes of all sizes, you'll have diverse options when it's time to identify the home that suits your needs. Homes in downtown Fuquay-Varina offer easy access to all of the community's great local amenities, while homes in the outer parts of town boast ample natural scenery with beautiful views from your front door.

Big Events Bring the Community Together

You won't have any trouble finding things to do in Fuquay-Varina, and there will be loads of special dates to circle on your calendar throughout the year. That's because the people of Fuquay-Varina love getting together for big community events, including the annual Celebrate Fuquay-Varina Festival. The biggest event of the year is typically the WRAL Freedom Balloon Fest when the skies above Fuquay-Varina are filled with hot air balloons, while the streets are filled with food and family fun.

Experience the Fuquay Mineral Spring

During its earliest days, Fuquay-Varina was built up around the Fuquay Mineral Spring, which provided mineral-rich water that people once thought had special healing powers. Visitors came from far and wide to see the spring in those days, and today the Fuquay Mineral Spring is still a great place to enjoy a picnic, take in the sights, and learn about a unique element of local history.

Are you ready to start shopping, and find out first-hand why Fuquay-Varina is such a great place to call home? Contact Coldwell Banker Howard Perry and Walston to buy and sell homes throughout the Fuquay-Varina, NC area.

Whether you're aiming to sample fantastic, unique cuisine from around the world or searching for a flavorful homestyle meal, Raleigh, NC has a restaurant to suit every taste.   

There's fabulous food around every corner in Raleigh, and the city has earned more than its share of awards for its unique culinary creations. Foodies will love getting to know the dining scene in the city, and shopping Raleigh homes for sale provides the perfect home-base for discovering the many hidden gems that await throughout the city. Our real estate agents are here to help you start your search, with a list of eight must-see dining destinations in Raleigh, NC. 

Enjoy Unique Flavors at Eight of the Best Dining Spots in Raleigh, NC

1. Saint Jacques French Cuisine, 6112 Falls of Neuse Rd, Raleigh
Chef Restaurateur Serge Falcoz-Vigne and the Saint Jacques team bring authentic French fine dining to Raleigh. Ranked as one of the Top 100 restaurants in the U.S. by OpenTable.com, Saint Jacques uses only the highest quality ingredients sourced locally from North Carolina farmers to serve classic French fare to their Raleigh clientele.  Enjoy unique seafood dishes, delightful desserts, an extensive wine list, and a fantastic atmosphere at Saint Jacques French Cuisine. 

2. Crawford and Son, 618 N. Pearce Street, Raleigh
Sit back, relax, and enjoy a great meal in a casual atmosphere at Crawford and Son, where comfort food is always on the menu. While the atmosphere is laid back, Chef Scott Crawford and his crew are serious about bringing the best flavors of Raleigh to your plate. Sample fish, fowl, and fabulous seafood, with unique takes on your favorite dishes as a part of the Crawford and Son menu. 

3. Garland, 14 West Martin Street, Raleigh
Garland is the hybrid of combining flavors of India and Asia with locally sourced foods to deliver a distinctively different culinary experience to Raleigh locals.  You'll discover great food, delicious cocktails, and an unbelievable wine menu in a comfortable--but funky--atmosphere.

4. Beasley's Chicken and Honey, 237 South Wilmington Street, Raleigh
Looking for a truly local way to celebrate the unique food scene in Raleigh? Stop by Beasley's Chicken and Honey to enjoy the best fried chicken in the city, in a fun, friendly atmosphere that's perfect for families. Beasley's offers a diverse menu of fried chicken creations, seasonal Southern sides, and savory sandwiches, all close to home in Downtown Raleigh.

5. lucettegrace, 235 South Salisbury Street, Raleigh
lucettegrace describes itself as a "contemporary patisserie" in the heart of downtown Raleigh. A patisserie it definitely is serving patrons everything from strawberries and cream mousse to a ham and cheese croissant with just the right amount of bechamel sauce.

6. Videri Chocolate Factory, 327 W. Davie Street, Sweet 100 Raleigh
We've covered food, drink, and flavors from around the world, so now all that's left is to tie the meal together with the perfect dessert. Visit Videri Chocolate Factory to enjoy some of the best chocolate in Raleigh, and see first-hand how gourmet chocolate is created. Enjoy watching the experts in action, then settle in on the outdoor patio to taste the delicious results of all of that hard work.

7. Bida Manda, 222 South Blount Street, Raleigh
Ranked as one of the 100 best restaurants in the U.S. by OpenTable, Bida Manda offers Laotian cuisine in an elegant, thoughtful setting. Enjoy a meal in the beautiful indoor dining area, or head out the deck to sample fantastic flavors with a gorgeous Raleigh sunset in the background. If you're looking for an example of Raleigh's unique culinary culture, Bida Manda is a great place to start.

8. Brewery Bhavana, 218 S. Blount Street, Raleigh
One visitor to Bida Manda was so taken by the food that he wished to create his own Laotian dining spot in the city, and on that day the concept for Brewery Bhavana was born. Located next door to Bida Manda, brewery Bhavana aims to create community by serving complex, craft brews paired with meals that emphasize the unique flavors of the Southeast Asian cuisine.

When you're ready to find your next home and start enjoying the fabulous flavors of Raleigh, our experienced, local real estate team is here to help. Contact us when you're ready to buy or sell homes throughout Raleigh, NC. 

It will soon be time to ring in 2018! Where will you cheer on the new year? Whether you're seeking a daytime celebration for the whole family or a night out with a special someone, the Triangle is a happening place to be on New Year's Eve. You'll even find fun activities on New Year's Day to get the new year off to a great start.

Cary

Roll the Bean New Year's Eve Celebration

Jellybean's Super Skate Center of Cary

1120 Buck Jones Road, Raleigh

Sunday, Dec. 31 from 8:30 p.m. to Monday, Jan. 1 at 1 a.m.

Admission is $25 for youth 15 and under

First Walk—New Year, New You

Bond Park

1100 Norwell Boulevard in Cary

Monday, Jan. 1 from 10 to 11 a.m.

Start at North Cary Park entrance to the Black Creek Greenway

Chapel Hill

Night Lights: A Family-Friendly New Year's Eve

Morehead Planetarium and Science Center

250 E. Franklin Street, Chapel Hill

Sunday, Dec. 31

2 to 6 p.m.

Tickets are $5 online

Ready to host kids of all ages, Night Lights will offer a fun-filled New Year's Eve in Chapel Hill. Guests young and old will enjoy games, shows in the GSK Fulldome Theater, science and dance performances, and food truck delights.

Durham

New Year's Eve Party

Ponysaurus Brewing Co.

219 Hood Street in Durham

Sunday, Dec. 31 from 9 p.m. to Monday, Jan. 1 at 2 a.m.

Raise a glass and share your cheer for a brand new year! Ponysaurus Brewing is excited to host its annual New Year's Eve party with a live performance by Chocolate Thunder and new brews!

New Year's Day 8K Run at Duke Forest

Duke School, 3716 Erwin Road, Durham

Monday, Jan. 1 at 1 p.m., registration begins at noon

First Day Hikes

Eno River State Park

6101 Cole Mill Road, Durham 27705

Monday, Jan. 1 at 2 p.m.

Starts at the Few's Ford Picnic Shelter (20 minutes from park entrance)

Two hikes: two-mile or four- to five-mile hikes

Raleigh

Noon Year's Eve

Marbles Kids Museum

201 East Hargett Street in Raleigh

Sunday, Dec. 31 from 11:45 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

$7 per person

Want to celebrate the new year without staying up late? Take the family to Marbles Kids Museum to ring in the "noon" year instead! Your little ones will love taking part in a bubble-wrap fireworks display, official noonday countdown, and festive dance party.

First Night Raleigh

Downtown Raleigh

Sunday, Dec. 31 to Monday, Jan. 1

Activities starting at 2 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 31

View an event schedule here

Join in a family-friendly New Year's Eve celebration in downtown Raleigh! This daylong event begins at 2 p.m. and runs through midnight. With afternoon activities for the kiddos in Bicentennial Plaza, a Ferris wheel, sleigh and trolley rides, live musical performances, evening fireworks and more, you'll be able to ring in the new year with great cheer!  

Events throughout the day:

DIY Festival

NC Museums of History & Natural Sciences and Bicentennial Plaza

2 to 6 p.m.

Children 5-years-old and under permitted free with a pass-wearing adult

People's Procession

Walk down Salisbury Street

Lineup begins at 5:30 p.m. along Edenton Street

Early Countdown & Fireworks

Main Stage on City Plaza

5:30 to 7 p.m.

Evening Concert Performances

Indoor and Outdoor Venues throughout downtown

7 to 11:30 p.m.

City Plaza Main Stage Performances

City Plaza

5 p.m. to Midnight

Giant Acorn Drop and Fireworks

City Plaza

Midnight

Raleigh's Ultimate New Year's Eve Party

Isaac Hunter's Tavern

414 Fayetteville Street in Raleigh

Sunday, Dec. 31 from 8 p.m. to Monday, Jan. 1 at 2 a.m.

Tickets are $45, available online

Score a front-row seat to Raleigh's Giant Acorn Drop at Isaac Hunter's Tavern on New Year's Eve. The popular pub will host a fantastic affair for its mature crowd well into the night.

The Official 2018 New Year's Eve Celebration

Downtown Raleigh Sheraton

421 South Salisbury Street

Sunday, Dec. 31 from 9 p.m. to Monday, Jan. 1 at 2 a.m.

Ticket prices vary, available online

Party the night away with Miss North Carolina and other area iHeartMedia radio hosts at this lively New Year's Eve celebration. Stretching across three large ballrooms, the event will feature a live performance by the Red Line Band and three expert DJs scheduled to spin their jams till after the Giant Acorn drops.

First Day Hike

William B. Umstead Park

Monday, Jan. 1 at 9 a.m.

Starts at the Reedy Creek Parking Lot (Harrison Avenue; Exit 287 off I-40)

Four-mile hike along Company Mill Trail

Only days away from the start of December and the countdown to Christmas, our Triangle cities and towns are getting ready to welcome the holidays in style.

Lively parades, bright, twinkling lights, and towering trees will soon usher in festive fun that you and your family won't want to miss.

Join hundreds, even thousands, of your Triangle neighbors at these area events to celebrate the spirited season this weekend and next.

Triangle Area Holiday Parades & Tree Lightings  

Apex

Christmas on Salem Street

Friday, Dec. 1 beginning at 5 p.m.

Salem Street in downtown Apex

Christmas on Salem Street is a must-visit event! Head to downtown Apex to celebrate the season with caroling, horse-drawn carriage and kiddie train rides (tickets needed), Santa's Workshop crafts, cookie decorating, and a visit from Mr. and Mrs. Claus. 

Apex's Grand Christmas Parade

Saturday, Dec. 2 at 5 p.m.

Salem Street in downtown Apex

The annual Apex Grand Christmas Parade will bring a lineup of holiday sights and delights! Round up the family and find some seats along Salem Street to take part in this cheerful event.

Cary

Hearts of the Holidays Celebration

Saturday, Dec. 2 with events beginning at 10 a.m.

Downtown Cary

Cary is ready to celebrate Christmas with a day full of festivities! Take the little ones to Santa's Workshop, stroll through the Ole Time Winter Festival, write a letter to Santa, take part in the Gingerbread House Competition and enjoy the lighting of the town's Christmas tree.

Cary Jaycees Christmas Parade

Saturday, Dec. 9 at 2 p.m.

Downtown Cary

For nearly 40 years, the Cary Jaycees have hosted a spirited parade complete with area bands, sports team mascots, and floats decorated by local businesses and community groups. Make sure to arrive at Chatham Street early to grab a seat!

Chapel Hill-Carrboro

Chapel Hill Community Tree Lighting Ceremony

Sunday, Dec. 3 at 6 p.m.

University Baptist Church Memorial Garden

100 S. Columbia Street in Chapel Hill

Holiday cheer will be abundant with caroling and a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus at the Chapel Hill Community Tree Lighting Ceremony!

Chapel Hill – Carrboro Holiday Parade

Saturday, Dec. 9 from 10 a.m. to noon

Begins at the old Post Office on East Franklin Street in Chapel Hill 

Snag a seat on Franklin Street to watch the Chapel Hill-Carrboro Holiday Parade roll by. Holiday floats, marching bands and performers, and a sleigh-riding Santa are sure to put a smile on your face and the Christmas spirit in your heart.

Durham

Durham Holiday Parade

Saturday, Dec. 2 at 11 a.m.

Downtown Durham

Floats, mascots, marching bands and street vendors will be hitting the pavement for a festive parade through downtown Durham this Saturday. Bring a chair or a blanket and grab a seat to take part in the holiday highlight.  

Holiday Fun Fest

Saturday, Dec. 2 from noon to 4 p.m.

American Tobacco Campus

318 Blackwell Street in Durham

Get ready to sled in the city this Saturday! Durham's American Tobacco Campus will be filled with snow and all of the activities that go with it. Bundle up the kids and go have some serious fun!

Fuquay-Varina 

Fuquay-Varina Tree Lighting

Thursday, Nov. 30 from 6 to 10 p.m.

Main/Vance Street lot in downtown Fuquay-Varina

Downtown Fuquay-Varina will soon be bursting with holiday spirit! Plan to take part in the annual tree lighting ceremony, visit with Santa, sing along with carolers, and ice skating! There will even be a life-size snow globe! 

Fuquay-Varina Christmas Parade

Sunday, Dec. 3 at 3 p.m.

Main Street in downtown Fuquay-Varina

Downtown Fuquay-Varina will be extra festive this Sunday as the annual Christmas Parade is set to roll through. Get ready for holiday-themed floats, live performances by area bands and dance troops and more! 

Garner 

Light Up Main

Friday, Dec. 1 from 6 to 8 p.m.

Downtown Garner 

Downtown Garner will pull out all of the holiday stops at its annual Light Up Main Christmas tree lighting event. There will be activities for the entire family including kids' crafts and activities, live performances, and photos with Santa himself. 

Town of Garner Christmas Parade

Saturday, Dec. 2 at 2 p.m.

Downtown Garner 

Main Street will be especially merry this Saturday as the Garner Christmas Parade marches through. Guest will enjoy community floats, high school bands, classic cars, local musicians and dancers, and Santa Claus, of course!

Goldsboro 

Goldsboro Christmas Parade

Saturday, Dec. 2 at 4 p.m.

Downtown Goldsboro

A Wayne County favorite, the Goldsboro Christmas Parade will bring cheer to the city's streets this Saturday! Make sure to arrive early to grab a good seat for this fun and festive float-filled affair.

Hillsborough

Hillsborough Holiday Parade

Saturday, Dec. 2 at 4:45 p.m.

Downtown Hillsborough

Historic Hillsborough will usher in the holidays for residents and guests this Saturday. The holiday parade will start the grand affair with the Annual Tree Lighting event immediately after.

Holly Springs

Happy Holly Days Parade

Saturday, Dec. 9 at 11 a.m.

Main Street in Holly Springs

Holly Springs families and guests are in for a treat next Saturday, as the town's annual parade will flow down Main Street. Decorated floats, high school bands, horses, vintage vehicles and more will surely impress.

Knightdale

Christmas On First Avenue

Friday, Dec. 1 from 6 to 8 p.m.

Knightdale Station Park Amphitheater

810 North First Avenue in Knightdale

Knightdale will light its Christmas tree this Friday with hot chocolate, holiday goodies, local entertainment and Santa's better half, Mrs. Claus.

Town of Knightdale Christmas Parade

Saturday, Dec. 2 at 2 p.m.

Begins at Knightdale Elementary School

Grab a seat on the Town of Knightdale's Christmas Parade route and get ready to watch colorful and creative floats go by with Santa at the very end.

Mebane

Mebane Christmas Parade

Friday, Dec. 1 at 7 p.m.

Downtown Mebane 

Mebane's evening Christmas parade will light up the night as local floats designed by area businesses and community members pass you by. The N.C. A&T Marching Band will also bring music to the town's streets, and Santa will round out the festive flow.

Morrisville

Morrisville Annual Tree Lighting

Friday, Dec. 1 from 7 to 9 p.m.

Morrisville Town Hall

Hot chocolate, holiday arts and crafts, and a trackless train will delight Morrisville's youngest residents and their parents. Join in this time-honored tradition to see the town's tree shine brightly with Santa by its side. 

Raleigh

Downtown Raleigh Tree Lighting Celebration

Saturday, Dec. 2 from 4 to 8 p.m.

Downtown Raleigh

City Plaza, 421 Fayetteville Street

Holiday fun awaits you in downtown Raleigh this Saturday. Enjoy live entertainment, holiday refreshments, amusements and activities and a 40-foot Snowzilla slide. As the sky darkens, Mayor Nancy McFarlane will light the city's towering Christmas tree. 

Rolesville

Christmas Parade and Santa Visit

Sunday, Dec. 3 from 2 to 5 p.m.

Main Street in downtown Rolesville

Visit with Santa at the Rolesville Chamber of Commerce at 200 East Young Street

Christmas will make its way to Rolesville this Sunday. The town's annual parade will kick off the merry season and visits with Santa will follow shortly after!

Wake Forest 

Lighting of Wake Forest

Friday, Dec. 1 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Wake Forest Town Hall 

Wake Forest will soon light up its 30-foot Christmas tree with festivities galore. Santa will arrive by fire truck, and local groups will sing and dance the night away with live performances.

Wake Forest Christmas Parade

Saturday, Dec. 9 at 1 p.m.

Downtown Wake Forest

More than 100 colorful holiday floats with cheerful décor will pass you by in Wake Forest next weekend. Join in the Christmas fun as the town welcomes Santa Claus to a sea of smiling faces.

Wendell

Wendell Wonderland

Friday, Dec. 1 beginning at 5 p.m.

Corner of Third and Cypress Streets in downtown Wendell

Want to be dazzled? Head to Wendell this Friday to see the lighting of its town tree and experience its annual Light Show with more than 400,000 twinkling holiday lights. Event goers will be excited to see Santa and take part in the event's holiday activities.

Veterans Day is an important day of recognition in our country.

It is a day to pay tribute to the numerous men and women who staked their lives for our own and proudly served to protect our families and freedoms. It's a day to show gratitude for our nation's heroes.

While we are always grateful for their commitment, we are especially thankful for the opportunity to recognize them on this day.

Our Coldwell Banker Howard Perry and Walston real estate team proudly salutes all veterans in our local communities and across the nation for the sacrifices they made during their years of service.

"As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them."

John Fitzgerald Kennedy

Area Veterans Day Events

Durham Veterans Day Recognition Luncheon and Celebration

Durham County Human Services Complex

414 East Main Street in Durham

Thursday, Nov. 9 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. 

Hillsborough Veterans Day Breakfast

Passmore Center

103 Meadowlands Drive in Hillsborough

Friday, Nov. 10 at 8:30 a.m.

Veterans and family members invited to attend

Holly Springs Veterans Day Ceremony

Veterans Park

600 Bikram Drive in Holly Springs

Friday, Nov. 10 at 10 a.m.

Orange County Veterans Day Ceremony

Orange County Veterans Memorial at Chapel Hill

Adjacent to the Southern Human Services Center off Homestead Road in Chapel Hill

Friday, Nov. 10 at 11 a.m.

2017 North Carolina Veterans Day Parade & Ceremony

Downtown Raleigh

Saturday, Nov. 11 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. 

Parade at 9 a.m.; lineup begins at 8 a.m.

The parade weaves through downtown Raleigh started at South Salisbury Street between Martin and Lenoir streets

Ceremony at 11 a.m.

State Capitol

1 East Edenton Street in downtown Raleigh

Cary Veterans Day Observance

Veterans Freedom Park

1513 North Harrison Avenue in Cary

Saturday, Nov. 11 at 11 a.m. to noon

Garner Veterans Day Observance

Aversboro Road Baptist Church

1600 Aversboro Road in Garner

Saturday, Nov. 11 from 11 a.m. to noon

Wake Forest Veterans Day Observance

Veterans' Memorial of Wake Forest

Located beside the clubhouse at Heritage Wake Forest

Saturday, Nov. 11 at 11 a.m.

Wayne County Veterans Day Parade

South Center Street in downtown Goldsboro

Saturday, Nov. 11 at 11 a.m.

Area Veterans Memorials and Monuments

Durham Vietnam Veterans Living Memorial

Behind the Edison Johnson Recreation Center

600 West Murray Avenue in Durham

Garner Veterans Memorial

Located at 921 Buffaloe Road in Garner

North Carolina Veterans Monument

Located in Capitol Square in downtown Raleigh

NC Vietnam Veterans Memorial

Located in Union Square in downtown Raleigh

Raleigh National Cemetery

Located at 501 Rock Quarry Road in Raleigh

Veterans Freedom Park

Located at 1513 North Harrison Avenue in Cary

Veterans Memorial Garden

Next to the Mebane Police Station on U.S. 70 and Fifth Street in Mebane

Veterans' Memorial of Wake Forest

Located beside the clubhouse at Heritage Wake Forest

Halloween is only a few days away, and this is the weekend to take part in fall fun and frightful delights!

No matter your preference for jolly jack-o-lanterns or spooky soirees, there are all types of haunts and jaunts taking place throughout the Triangle for you to enjoy. 

Take the little ones out to pick some pumpkins, sip on cider, and find the way through a tall corn maze and then grab a sitter and round up some fright-loving friends to get your ghostly ghoul on some area fear farms and haunted houses. 

Not-So-Scary Family Fun

Naylor Family Farm & Giant Corn Maze

6016 U.S. 401 North in Fuquay-Varina

Now through Saturday, Nov. 5

Fridays, 1 to 6 p.m.; Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; and Sundays, 1 to 6 p.m.

$18 per person; children 2 and under are free

Want to wander through a giant cornfield? Naylor Family Farm is for you. Featuring a 10-acre corn maze, a farm animal petting zoo, gem mining, an inflatable jump pad and other kids attractions, your mini monsters, and silly ghosts will have great fun.

Halloween Hayrides

Clayton Community Park

1075 Amelia Church Road in Clayton

Friday, Oct. 27 from 4 to 6 p.m.

$5 for children 12 and under; parents ride free with each paid child; children 2 and under are free

Gather up your superheroes, princesses, skeletons, and witches and take them on a Halloween hayride at the Clayton Community Park. With story stops along the way, your children will have fun as they ride through Halloween Land. Fun games, candy, and attractions will also delight.

The Town of Clayton will also host a Halloween Movie Night on Friday evening at dark. Grab some blankets, drinks, and munchies and watch Hocus Pocus under the stars at Clayton Town Square at 110 West Main Street.

Boo Bash!

Millbrook Exchange Community Center

1905 Spring Forest Road in Raleigh

Friday, Oct. 27 from 5:30 to 8 p.m. and Monday, Oct. 30 from 6 to 8 p.m.

Free event for families with children ages 10 and younger

RSVP on RecLink to attend—search for Boo Bash! Under "Advanced Search"

Your costumed children will enjoy taking part in this spooktacular event! They can fill their Halloween bag with treats and sweets trunk-or-treating in the Center's parking lot, walk through the Spooky Bus, hear some ghost stories, and participate in creepy crafts.

Goblin's Groove Family Dance

The Halle Cultural Arts Center

237 N. Salem Street in Apex

Saturday, Oct. 28 from 7 to 9:30 p.m.

$5 per couple and $2 each additional child

Dress up the whole family and get ready to boogie down and dance at the Halle Center. Fun music, costume contest, games and Halloween tricks and treats will make this event a big hit!

Halloween Pumpkin Fest at Fearrington Village

Fearrington Village in Pittsboro

Sunday, Oct. 29 from 6 to 10 p.m.

Free event

Fearrington will be aglow with more than 80 intricately carved pumpkins tucked into the Village Center gardens. McIntyre's Books will host spooky story times at 6 p.m., 6:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. The pumpkin display will remain up through Halloween on Tuesday, Oct. 31.  

Hallow-Eno

West Point on the Eno

5101 N. Roxboro Road in Durham

Halloween, Tuesday, Oct. 31 from 6 to 9 p.m.

Free event for families with children ages 12 and under

 Spend Halloween at Eno Park with campfire stories and songs, hayrides through the woods, face painting and festive crafts. Hosted by the Durham Parks and Recreation Department 

Scream-filled Scenes 

Clayton Fear Farm Haunted Scream Park

1620 Loop Road, Clayton

Thursday, Oct. 26 from 7 to 10 p.m.

Friday, Oct. 27 and Saturday, Oct. 28 from 7 p.m. to midnight

Sunday, Oct. 29, Monday, Oct. 30 and Halloween, Tuesday, Oct. 31 from 7 to 11 p.m.

$27 all-inclusive ticket or $13 for single attraction ticket per person

Clayton Fear Farm's Haunted Scream Park gets its name honestly. A farm full of creepy attractions that will seriously scare, you are going to want to prepare yourself for a night of fright. 

Haunted Forest at Panic Point

2808 Cedar Creek Road, Youngsville

Open tonight through Halloween on Tuesday, Oct. 31 starting at 6 p.m.

Ticket prices vary by day and package; purchase tickets online before they sell out

Named North Carolina's top haunted attraction, Panic Point is a must-visit for thrill seekers ready for a chilling experience. Six haunted attractions filled with gruesome characters and creatures ready to give you the scare of a lifetime. 

Harvested Farm Nightmares

3175 Benson Highway (HWY 50), Garner

Friday, Oct. 27, Saturday, Oct. 28, Monday, Oct. 30 and Halloween, Tuesday, Oct. 31 starting at 7 p.m.

$17 per person

Promising to give you nightmares for days, this haunted attraction has the menacing mayhem you seek for a Halloween fright. Be prepared to see zombies, monsters and crazy creeps lurking in the darkness.  

Haunted Hillsborough Sanitarium

Alleyway behind 106 S. Churton Street in Hillsborough (next to Dual Supply)

Halloween, Tuesday, Oct. 31 from 6 to 8 p.m.

Free event

A seriously scary scene awaits you down the alley behind our Coldwell Banker Howard Perry and Walston Hillsborough office on South Churton Street. Make it through the spooky Sanitarium to earn your treats!

Music will fill the air in downtown Raleigh this Friday and Saturday at the annual Wide Open Bluegrass Festival. With more than 100 bands on seven city stages, you should get ready for some knee-slapping, foot-tapping fun!

Festival-goers can purchase general admission or VIP passes online to score seats at the Main Stage at Red Hat Amphitheater to see performances by the Steep Canyon Rangers with Steven Martin, The Infamous Stringdusters presenting the Wide Open Jam, The Travelin' McCourys, Bela Fleck & Abigail Washburn, and many more. 

In addition to the incredible banjo-wielding artist lineup, the two-day event will feature a free StreetFest on Fayetteville and Cabarrus Streets. Expanded from the previous year, the event will be filled with tasty food-truck treats, arts and crafts vendors, dancing, youth performances and a Kid Zone. Adult attendees will also enjoy visiting beer and wine tasting tents for sips throughout the day. 

The Whole Hog Barbecue Championship will kick off late Friday evening with pig cookers smoking through the night into Saturday morning for judging. Once the meat-master winner is named, the competitors' barbecue pork will be sold to StreetFest guests to raise money for the Inter-Faith Food Shuttle.

A short walk down the road, the International Bluegrass Music Association's World of Bluegrass Expo will also be taking place at the Raleigh Convention Center on Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Wide Open Bluegrass Festival event details:

Where:

Downtown Raleigh

Main Stage: Red Hat Amphitheater

When:

Friday, Sept. 29 and Saturday, Sept. 30 from noon to 11 p.m. 

Music Schedule:

Get the scoop on the bands and live performances before you go by downloading the Wide Open Bluegrass Festival music schedule here.

Image Credit: World of Bluegrass/Wide Open Bluegrass Festival 

An event planned to celebrate the uniquely diverse Morrisville community, the East Meets West Festival is filled with delicious food, music, and live street performances spotlighting cultures from all over the world. You should attend! 

Not only is the annual festival one-of-a-kind in the Triangle area, but it has also earned acclaim nationally as well. This spring, the National League of Cities recognized Morrisville with its City Cultural Diversity Award spotlighting its diverse and collaborative community and East Meets West Festival. 

In an interview about the award, Morrisville Mayor Mark Stohlman said, "One of the most distinct features about Morrisville is its variety of cultures. The East Meets West festival is incredibly important to the town council as a means of connecting with the public and celebrating the cultures that make our town unique."

Organized by the Morrisville Innovation Foundation, the free event will take place this Saturday, Sept. 23 starting at 11 a.m. with arts and crafts vendors and area restaurants setting up shop along Town Hall Drive. 

Festivalgoers are sure to enjoy the opportunity to purchase an assortment of foods from all over including traditional Peruvian and Indian fare, Asian dishes and North Carolina barbeque. Performers include Bollywood and Middle Eastern belly dancers, yoga instructors, blues, reggae and bluegrass bands, and other exciting talents.

Young attendees will also delight in the Kids Zone as they get their faces painted and spend the day jumping in the inflatable bounce house. 

East Meets West Festival event details:

Where:

Town Hall Drive in Morrisville

When:

Saturday, Sept. 23 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. 

Directions & Parking:

Access driving directions and parking information here. 

Additional Information:

Town Hall Drive will be closed from Morrisville Carpenter Road through Jeremiah Street on Friday, Sept. 22 at 6:30 p.m. through Saturday, Sept. 23 at 11 p.m.

Image Credit: Morrisville Innovation Foundation/East Meets West Festival