This weekend in Albemarle, NC

Saturday mornings at Market Station come alive with the Albemarle Downtown Farmers Market, a weekly gathering filled with local flavor and community spirit. Explore stands stocked with seasonal fruits and vegetables, locally raised meats, farm-fresh staples, sweet and savory homemade treats, and distinctive handmade creations, all offered by vendors from the area. It is a friendly place to catch up with neighbors, meet the people behind your food, and start the weekend with something fresh. On second Saturdays, the market features a 90 minute flavor experience with a live cooking demonstration, practical tips for giving local favorites a healthier twist using ingredients found at the market, plus samples and a nutrition Q and A.

Enjoy arts and crafts, a parade, the chance to try gold panning, and hayrides focused on history. Food trucks will be available, a bluegrass festival is part of the festivities, and the village shops and the restaurant will be open.

Now in its fourth year, Jace’s 5k Run and 1k Walk offers a timed experience for both runners and walkers. Medals will be presented to top finishers across multiple groups. For sponsorship inquiries, email sharonsanders@warriorjace.org.

Enjoy a guided off-road trail ride in Uwharrie that welcomes both beginners and experienced drivers. Participants will be grouped by skill level, and each group will have a guide. The day starts with a meet-up at Eldorado Outpost before heading onto the trails. Trail maps are available on the group page in the Files section.

This relaxed meetup at Trilogy Books & Coffee brings together people who love comics, manga, and graphic novels. It offers a friendly space to chat about what you are reading, trade recommendations, and share what has you excited. Open to everyone, from longtime fans to newcomers.

Wagfest 2026 at Market Station features food trucks, vendors, and live music along with adoption events, games, and raffles. The Leashes & Laces 2 mile walk or run is part of the festivities. Sponsorship opportunities are available. Vendors can register to participate, and the vendor fee is $75. For questions, email schswagfest@gmail.com.

Take part in the third annual murder mystery game in Downtown Albemarle. Participants move from shop to shop, talk with local business owners, and gather clues to reveal Albemarle’s most wanted suspect. Tickets are required and quantities are limited. Adults 21 and over will be offered beverages along the way to enjoy while investigating. A portion of the proceeds benefits the local arts.

Celebrate the City of Locust Summer Concert Series with a free outdoor show set in the backyard of Locust City Hall. The season brings live performances from The Tams with a firework finale in June, Gump Fiction in July, Party Parrot Band in August, and the Michael Christopher Band in September, also capped with fireworks. Enjoy a variety of food trucks, browse local craft and business vendors, and find activities for kids throughout the evening. This year includes two firework finales at the close of the June and September concerts. Support is provided by Gold Level sponsors Whitley Automotive of Locust, Ready Mix of the Carolinas, M/I Homes of Charlotte, Taylor Morrison and Kolter Homes, along with many other sponsors. For questions or information about becoming a vendor or sponsor, contact Program Coordinator Jessica Honeycutt at jhoneycutt@locustnc.gov.