Events in Johnston County, NC

This BBQ Chicken Fundraiser and Outreach features plate meals for $12 that include a half chicken grilled with sauce, boiled potatoes, green beans, a dinner roll, and dessert. Sauce is also available by the gallon for $20. Service options include drive-through, dine-in, and local delivery with a five plate minimum in the Clayton area, which must be arranged in advance. Volunteer opportunities are available through Johnny Jacobs or Ann Narron. Each plate is accompanied by literature about faith, salvation, and the church family, creating a day centered on food, fellowship, and community support.

Friday Night Magic brings players together for games. Many participants gravitate toward Commander, and other formats are welcome as well. Bring decks and a trade binder to connect with fellow players.

The Caldwell County Farmers Market is held at the Fairgrounds.

Now in its 11th year, Run 4 Recovery brings the community together in support of healing, hope, and recovery. The event offers both 5K and 10K distances for every experience level, and runners, walkers, volunteers, and supporters all play a part in the day. The 5K early rate is $30 and later increases to $35, while the 10K early rate is $40 and later increases to $45. All entry fees are final and nonrefundable. Every participant receives a race shirt and a medal for finishing, subject to availability. Packet pickup is available ahead of time as well as on race day. A virtual option is available for those who prefer to participate remotely. Virtual participants can complete the distance on their own schedule within the event window and submit results via RaceJoy, and they will also receive a shirt and medal. Shirts may be picked up locally or mailed for an additional $5, and delivery by race day is not guaranteed for all shipped orders. The event supports the mission of Recovery Alive at Temple City Church to bring hope and restoration to people in need. Awards recognize the top two male and female finishers overall, the top two male and female finishers in each age group for both races, the fastest team, and the largest team. For questions, email info@recoveryalive.com.

At The Clayton Center, the Southern Women’s Show of JoCo highlights local vendors while also raising funds for Harbor House of JoCo, a private nonprofit in Johnston County that provides safety, emergency shelter, and wide-ranging assistance for people who have experienced domestic violence or sexual assault. To guard against scams, direct any event-related communication only to Amy, Emily, Katie, or Tammy.

Enjoy a fall evening at the Dupree House, a historic setting with fire pits, s’mores, and friendly rivalry. Expect an Agents-versus-Affiliates showdown featuring cornhole on the back deck and a fast-paced puzzling challenge, with wine and beer available for a relaxed fireside experience. Admission is free with advance registration. A $25 no-show fee applies if registration is not canceled at least 24 hours beforehand.

At Mystical Mysti Candles, this yoga and meditation session centers on thoughtful movement and a calming reset. It begins with grounding breathwork, then moves into intentional mobility, strength, and flowing sequences that support openness, alignment, and ease. The practice concludes with a brief sound bath or a guided meditation, allowing the nervous system to settle and the benefits to sink in. It is suitable for beginners and experienced practitioners alike, and everyone is welcome. On the last Thursday evening of each month, the class shifts to a dedicated guided meditation led by Patty Adams, RYT-200.

Kickstart the morning in Clayton with Good Morning Clayton, a CCOC monthly networking meetup focused on building connections. Attendees can share business updates, offer a brief 20-second pitch, and grow their network through meaningful conversations. This edition is hosted by Gorman Group Insurance, and the series sponsor is Black Castle IT. Admission is free for CCOC investors, also known as members, and for first-time guests. The gathering takes place at the Clayton Chamber of Commerce.

The 51st annual Railroad Days Festival celebrates Downtown Selma’s railroad heritage and community pride. Enjoy live entertainment, tasty food options, artisan and merchandise booths, a dedicated kids area, community exhibits, and activities for all ages. Plan for a full day exploring the historic downtown, supporting local businesses, and taking part in one of Selma’s hallmark traditions. Whether a longtime resident or visiting for the first time, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

A one day ranch horse show highlighting the versatility of the ranch horse. Classes include Ranch Cutting, Boxing, Ranch Roping, Conformation, Horsemanship, Ranch Rail, Ranchmanship, Trail, and a Jackpot Reining with a 70 percent payout. Divisions offered are Open, Amateur, Novice, Youth, and Walk/Trot. ARHA rules and patterns will be followed. High Point awards will be presented by division at each show, with a series High Point awarded at the end of the season. Pre-entry provides a 10 percent discount on the entry fee, with the entry link coming soon. Negative Coggins is required.

https://www.csoca.com/octoberfest

Experience a vibrant celebration of the Motown sound with a one-night showcase of music, memories, and an electrifying live performance. Headlining are Detroit legends The Shades of Blue, known for the 1966 Billboard chart-topper "Oh How Happy!" and honored with induction into the Rhythm & Blues Hall of Fame in 2015. The cast brings together standout voices and musicians from across the Motown universe: Stuart Avig, counted among just five original Motown artists still touring and the original lead singer of The Valadiers who voiced the 1961 hit "Greetings (This Is Uncle Sam)"; Charles Davis, who once led The Contours and traveled the world with the Dirty Dancing Tour performing "Do You Love Me"; Delbert Nelson, who formerly sang lead with The Funk Brothers; Raymond Ward, previously the frontman for The Fantastic Four; Sheila Taylor, niece to Levi Stubbs of The Four Tops; Baby Ray Moore, a noted drummer who has performed with Stevie Wonder, Aretha Franklin, and Ali Woodson of The Temptations; and Tom Loncaric, an accomplished keyboardist and music director with credits that include Little Anthony and The Miracles. Audiences can look forward to tight harmonies, high-energy choreography, eye-catching costumes, and polished showmanship as the production takes a spirited tour through the Hitsville USA legacy. The evening salutes favorites by The Temptations, Diana Ross and The Supremes, Marvin Gaye, Smokey Robinson, The Four Tops, Martha Reeves and The Vandellas, Michael Jackson, The Spinners, and others. Whether swaying in their seats or moving in the aisles, attendees share in a celebration that captures the heart and soul of one of America’s most cherished songbooks.

Watch the Colts take on the Commanders. Doors open early so fans can secure seats and enjoy the game day atmosphere before kickoff. Alcohol sales will begin after opening.

Incredible Business Networking hosts a casual meetup at 9Bar Coffeehouse in Clayton for business people and entrepreneurs to connect over coffee and build referral relationships. Admission is free with no dues, no membership, no attendance requirements, and no category restrictions, and all are welcome. Food and drinks are available for purchase. The format includes time to network before the main program, a focused session, and additional networking afterward. Meeting leaders are Denise Kavaliauskas of She Rises and She Glows Meditations and Retreats and Jaime Wilson. Participants can showcase their business, products, and services, bring plenty of business cards or flyers, and may optionally offer a door prize. Support from sponsors in the Raleigh and Durham area helps keep IBN events free for the community.

This dance at the Loyal Order of Moose Lodges features a spacious floor and a welcoming crowd. Everyone is welcome, and admission is $10. A snack bar will be available. Alcohol is not permitted and smoking is not allowed inside.

The 13th Annual Driving "Fore" a Cure for PH Golf Tournament brings golfers together at Riverwood Golf Club to support vital research. The goal is to raise $75,000, and 100 percent of proceeds will be directed to research aimed at finding a cure for PH. Participants can look forward to a full day on the course, great food, gifts, a silent auction, dinner with a guest speaker, and an awards ceremony. Registration includes golf, tee gifts, lunch, dinner, and a golf shirt. Entry options include Individual Registration at $350 and a Team of four at $1350, with Early Bird rates of $250 for teams and $1000 for individuals.

Southland Car Club hosts an annual fall car and truck show where all vehicles are welcome. The event features a Top 25 chosen by popular vote, additional sponsor trophies, food trucks, and live music. Please be cautious of scam comments that ask you to contact someone for registration and do not respond to them.

Now in its 17th year, Feel the Burn features a 5k and 10k road race alongside the 2026 Community Day/Open House. Planning is underway for a day that combines the races with a community open house.

A new gig is on the calendar as Southgate 40 makes its debut at The Cardinal in Clayton.

The Eagles face the Jaguars, with an early opening that gives attendees time to find seats and enjoy the game day atmosphere. Alcohol sales will begin after opening.

A new Triangle Women’s Network gathering meets at Boba Beans Bistro in Clayton. The focus is on meaningful connections in business and friendship, authenticity, collaboration rather than competition, and a warm welcome for newcomers. The meeting opens with check-in, name tags, something to eat, and casual conversation. It then shifts to brief introductions where attendees can share about their work or industry, family, passions, areas where they are seeking support, or anything that helps the group get to know them. Participation is flexible, so arriving late or leaving early is fine. Business owners and non-owners are welcome, with an emphasis on belonging and connection.

Set at the Rudy Theatre in Selma, NC, this jubilee focuses on classic country.

Connect with fellow professionals at CCOC’s evening networking series that spotlights a different local business each month. This edition is presented by 9BAR Coffeehouse at its location. Bring business cards, mingle with other attendees, and enjoy light refreshments. Admission is complimentary for CCOC investors, also known as members, and their guests.

This musical revue celebrates the notorious side of Broadway with numbers that shine a spotlight on the stage’s most infamous villains. The evening blends drama, laughs, and standout performances with a complete dining experience. Every ticket includes a full buffet featuring a variety of chef-prepared dishes designed to complement the show. Guests can enjoy dinner and then settle in for performances that bring well-known antagonists to life. Recommended for ages 14 and older. Some musical numbers include mature themes, strong language, suggestive content, and adult subject matter. Parental discretion is advised.

Enjoy a free concert featuring Jim Quick & Coastline Band. DJ Butch Halpin gets the crowd moving with a pre-show mix, and on-site vendors offer food and shopping. Bring lawn chairs or blankets for comfortable seating and settle in to enjoy the music.

Farm Revival 2026 brings the spirit of farming to the forefront in a community celebration of agriculture. Working Lands Trust hosts an evening with a shared meal, live music, a live auction, and raffles, all centered on safeguarding farms and forests throughout North Carolina.

The 3rd Annual Fall Bazaar offers a festive celebration of the season with local vendors, delicious food trucks, inflatable play areas for children, and more. Attendees can browse unique items, enjoy a variety of food options, and spend time with the community in a welcoming setting. Vendors and food trucks are being accepted, with a vendor fee of $20, and registration details are available from the event organizers.

Set out on a three-hour e-bike experience that blends local flavor with rich storytelling. This season introduces AI-driven video segments that let historical figures share their own narratives, adding an immersive layer to the journey. Guides begin with a brief safety overview and a short practice ride, then lead a relaxed roll through town with engaging history stops along the way. About an hour in, the group breaks for an included lunch featuring authentic Mexican street tacos at a popular local spot. The route then continues onto the NC Mountains to Sea Trail for an energizing stretch with scenic views and additional story stops. The outing wraps up downtown at a speakeasy-style bar where a freshly squeezed margarita is included. Along the way, hear about local heroes, the early days of NASCAR, moonshining, Indigenous history, the Neuse River, mill towns, and even tackle some lighthearted alcohol trivia. This ride suits any fitness level, and the e-bikes can handle the effort so pedaling is optional. After reserving a spot, a message with full details, including the exact meet time, is sent by email or text. Tours typically run in light rain or shine, cancellations require 72 hours’ notice, and alternate plans are offered if weather becomes severe. The team focuses on delivering a polished, five-star adventure from start to finish.

Celebrating its twelfth year, this memorial golf tournament takes place at Riverwood Golf Club and will follow a shotgun start format. Opportunities for sponsorship and team registration will be available, with additional details to be shared. The focus is on paying it forward to 1 of Us again this year.

There is an early opening for the Steelers vs Saints game, and alcohol sales will begin a little later. Arriving before kickoff makes it easier to find a seat and settle in for the action.

Held at Johnston County Livestock Arena, this show offers a variety of divisions for the season and will be judged by Neal Hess and Susan Wendt. The schedule begins with gates opening, followed by registration and an open schooling period before the show gets underway.

Connect with fellow professionals in Clayton as you share business updates, deliver a concise 20-second commercial to the group, and leave with new contacts and deeper relationships. Good Morning Clayton is the Clayton Chamber of Commerce’s monthly morning networking event and is free for CCOC investors (members) and first-time guests. The series is sponsored by Black Castle IT. This month’s gathering is hosted by Guy C Lee Building Materials and takes place at the Clayton Chamber of Commerce.

BBQ chefs are invited to compete in an annual cookoff featuring a top prize of $2,000. Barbecue prepared during the competition will be offered as plate sales, with free meals for veterans. Cooks can register to cook a pig and take part in the event.

We Are Messengers brings the Halfway Home Tour to life with an evening centered on honesty, heart, and connection. Recognized for an unfiltered, down-to-earth take on faith and music, the band speaks to anyone living in the middle of the story rather than at the finish line. Expect sing-along favorites like “Come What May” and “Wholehearted,” anthems of perseverance and trust in every season. The lineup shifts as the tour moves along, with Andrew Ripp appearing on early dates and Allison Eide joining later stops, sharing songs such as “Fill My Cup,” “Jericho,” and “Love Who I Am.” Each night has its own feel, yet the focus stays the same... celebrate the journey, take a moment to reflect and recharge, and connect through songs that meet listeners right where they are.

If you feel caught between where you have been and where God is leading, the We Are Messengers Halfway Home Tour offers an evening centered on the journey of faith, not just the destination. We Are Messengers brings a heartfelt set featuring songs like “Come What May” and “Wholehearted.” The tour begins with Andrew Ripp performing favorites such as “Fill My Cup” and “Jericho,” and later dates feature Allison Eide with “Love Who I Am.” A limited number of VIP tickets include early entry to choose your seats, a pre-show Q&A with We Are Messengers, and a VIP laminate. Late arrivals will forfeit the Q&A and there are no refunds. Lineup subject to change. To avoid invalid or overpriced tickets, purchase only through the official ticketing partner. Resale posts are removed and can result in a ban.

This one day show highlights the versatility of the ranch horse with classes in ranch cutting, boxing, ranch roping, conformation, horsemanship, ranch rail, ranchmanship, trail, and a jackpot reining class with a 70 percent payout. Divisions offered are Open, Amateur, Novice, Youth, and Walk/Trot. ARHA rules and patterns apply. High Point awards are presented in each division at every show, and there is a series High Point at the end of the season. Negative Coggins is required.

West Clayton Elementary School presents the third annual Vendor Fair, offering a marketplace setting for local sellers and creators. Vendor spaces are 10 feet by 10 feet, the fee is $40 per space, and electricity is not available. Participants should bring their own tables and chairs. Bingo will be part of the festivities, and a small prize donation valued around 5 to 10 dollars is welcome from those who are able. Payments for vendor spots can be made through Givebacks.

Celebrate the season at a holiday market featuring more than 20 local vendors, along with food and drinks from Cleveland Draft House and beverages from Thirsty Mobile Beverage Co. Enjoy live music from Rob Cole of The Voice Season 28 while browsing for gifts and seasonal finds. A raffle benefits InterAct, the Family Violence Prevention Center, creating an opportunity to give back. Pick up a vendor passport, collect a stamp at every booth, and when it is complete, enter for a chance to win a $50 Cleveland Draft House gift card. Spend the day discovering local makers, enjoying refreshments, and supporting the community.

Doors open early for the Bengals vs Falcons game, giving fans time to find a seat and enjoy the atmosphere. Alcohol sales will begin later.

Lysa TerKeurst and Tasha Layton bring a live tour focused on making peace with what cannot be controlled to The Bridge Princeton in Princeton, NC. Through an evening of biblical teaching and worship, the program encourages recognizing control rooted in fear, releasing what was never yours to carry, and embracing a peace that is not dependent on other people or circumstances. A VIP conversation is planned before the main program, followed by early entry and general admission, and the schedule may change. Tickets are on sale, and the organizer cautions against third party purchases due to scams. Use the official ticketing outlet, since tickets bought elsewhere are not guaranteed and may limit access to event updates or assistance.

Free admission welcomes collectors to a Dixie Jewels Insulator Club swap meet hosted by Greg and Dawn Hooks at the Moose Lodge. The club is bringing the gathering to a new venue just off Interstate 95 at Exit 97 on US 70. From the interstate, head east on US 70, turn right at the first road past the interstate onto JR Road, follow it to the end, and watch for signage for the Dixie Jewels Swap Meet on the right. Approximately 35 eight-foot sales tables are available. Tables are $10, with no charge for Dixie Jewels members, and reservations are taken in the order received. Expect insulators, go-withs, bottles, and related collectibles on offer. A shared meal is planned, and contributing a side dish, dessert, or beverage is optional and appreciated. For details, to reserve a table, or to coordinate food items, contact Greg Hooks at (919) 369-3654 or ralph.dean@att.net. Lodging is plentiful in nearby Selma and Smithfield, and the area offers outlets, antiquing, and museums such as the Ava Gardner Museum in central North Carolina.

This 4th annual day of honor brings together a community ride and a whole hog barbecue cookoff in support of local veterans. Cooking teams may enter for $150 to $200 per team, with the hog provided, and compete for cash awards of $1,000 for first place, $500 for second, and $250 for third. Sponsorship opportunities range from $100 to $1,500. Vendors are welcome to set up at no cost, and volunteers are needed for parking, greeting, vendor setup, registration, and other event support. Attendees can sample and help judge barbecue across all cook sites with a $10 donation, limited to one vote per person per donation. Proceeds benefit local veterans. The day includes vendor setup and a vendor market, ride registration at $10 per person, a prayer, KSU, the opening of taste-and-judge registration, a flag raising, the ride’s return, a shared meal, live music with a special guest followed by 180, and then announcements with sponsor thanks, door prizes, and awards. To register, use the official channels and work directly with Christy as the sole contact for this event, including through the Freedom Biker Church app.

Grammy-winning performers Linda Davis and Lang Scott join songwriter, comedian, and radio broadcaster Bill Whyte for an intimate acoustic showcase that blends familiar songs, humor, and homespun charm. Inspired by the Nashville songwriter round tradition, this Evening in the Round experience pairs music with the stories behind the tunes for a close-up look at the craft. Linda Davis, a member of the Texas Country Music Hall of Fame, is known for the Grammy-winning duet with Reba McEntire, "Does He Love You." Her career spans more than three decades, including 20 years on tour with the late Kenny Rogers, along with her own hits and awards earned while entertaining audiences worldwide. Bill Whyte contributes quick wit and originals recorded by Ray Stevens, Joe Nichols, Cledus T. Judd, Linda Davis, and others. His credits include co-writing "Safe Haven" on Hillary Scott & The Scott Family’s Grammy-winning album Love Remains and "Finger Pickin’ Good" for Kristy Cox, which received Australia’s 2020 Golden Guitar Award for Best Bluegrass Recording. Lang Scott, a Grammy-winning musician and accomplished vocalist, completes the trio with musicianship that complements the set and ties the evening together.

Now in its 18th year, the Gobble Waddle 5K and 10K Walk/Run celebrates the season of gratitude and continues a long running Thanksgiving tradition in Johnston County. The event welcomes participants of all ages and abilities, whether aiming for a personal best, walking with friends, pushing a stroller, or bringing a friendly, leashed dog. Pre-registered participants receive an official event T-shirt, every finisher earns a medal, and awards are presented to the top two finishers in each age division, with divisions extending to 120 plus. Teams can also compete for recognition including largest group, most spirit, and best team name. The first 18 people to register receive a special prize. Beyond the course, participants can enjoy a coffee truck, the UNC Mobile Outreach Unit offering flu shots, local vendors, and a lively, family friendly atmosphere. Proceeds support HealthQuest’s Healthy Kids Program, which provides local youth with fitness opportunities, nutrition education, and wellness resources, with backing from the Johnston Health Foundation’s Healthy Kids Fund. A non perishable food drive benefiting local food banks is part of the event, with donations accepted on site and at designated collection locations. Sponsors and volunteers are also invited to help make an impact, strengthening the Healthy Kids Program, promoting lifelong healthy habits and disease prevention, providing scholarships for underserved youth, demonstrating a commitment to community health and family wellness, and connecting with hundreds of participants, families, and local businesses.

Powhatan OFWB Church Senior Adult Ministry presents Christmas Jubilee, live at The Rudy Theatre in downtown Selma, NC. Celebrate the season with familiar carols, inspiring performances, and plenty of holiday cheer for a heartwarming outing filled with music and laughter. Tickets are $35 per person. Sign up at the Fellowship Hall entrance, and for more information please contact Pam Radford.

Jen Kober delivers a high-energy blend of stand-up and storytelling for an hour of laughs. She won NPR's Snap Judgement Comedic Performance of the Year two years in a row for Girl Scout Cookie Caper, which went viral, and for Nana Vs. OJ, which drew nearly a million views. On screen, she has appeared in Netflix originals AJ & The Queen and Dead to Me, HBO's The Righteous Gemstones and Hacks, USA Network's The Purge, and Disney projects including Diary Of A Future President, the Disney Channel series Bunk'd as Sheriff Linda Lawless, and The Mandalorian. Additional credits include a recurring role on American Horror Story, a guest spot on Showtime's Black Monday, a season two regular role on Apple TV's The Browns, and a feature in Audible's Pride Special Owning It. This performance centers her signature stories and commanding stage presence.

The Town of Princeton Christmas parade celebrates the season with holiday cheer. Additional details will be announced soon, including how to sign up to participate with your own parade entry.

This Christmas event at The Rudy Theatre brings seasonal songs, standout performances, and a joyful holiday atmosphere to the stage. It celebrates the spirit of the season with lively music and sparkling moments for a celebration to remember.

A spacious dance floor and a friendly crowd set the scene. The venue is alcohol free and smoking is not permitted indoors. Everyone is welcome, and admission is $10.

Connect with the local business community in Clayton by sharing brief updates, presenting a quick 20-second introduction to the group, and growing your network through meaningful conversations. Good Morning Clayton is CCOC’s monthly connection-building gathering, free for CCOC investors (members) and first-time guests. This edition is hosted by CBIZ Payroll and HR Technology, and the series is sponsored by Black Castle IT. The group meets at the Clayton Chamber of Commerce.

Welcome the season with a sparkling evening of festive music, eye catching performances, and plenty of holiday cheer at The Rudy Theatre, Live at The Rudy. Christmas Jubilee brings friends and families together for a memorable night filled with warmth and wonder.