Events in Sanford
Sci-Fi Book Club
Science fiction readers gather each month to discuss a book they have read together. The meeting concludes with a group selection for the next read. It offers a friendly space to connect with fellow sci-fi fans.
Sips And SequelsUncorked - A Weekly Wine Experience
“Uncorked” is a guided blind wine tasting where you’ll sample four rotating new varietals, with no labels and no pressure to know everything beforehand. You’ll taste each pour at 2 oz., then finish with a full 6 oz. glass of one of your favorites from the tasting. It’s a relaxed, social experience designed for curious drinkers and casual wine enthusiasts. Seating is limited to 12 people.
CORKKaraoke Wednesday Nights
Every Wednesday night, Buffalo Wild Wings in Southern Pines hosts a karaoke session with music, food, and a fun crowd. Hosted by BowTie Entertainment, it’s open to singers of all experience levels, so you can either jump in and perform your favorite songs or just come enjoy the show. Admission is free.
Buffalo Wild WingsTrivia Wednesday Nights in Southern Pines
Trivia Night is back at Bell Tree Tavern in Southern Pines. Bring your smartest friends for a fun evening of trivia, friendly competition, and prizes. Teams will go head to head across a variety of categories, with weekly prizes awarded to the top finishers, including gift cards and an appetizer for the top teams. Reservations are recommended.
The Bell Tree TavernUnder 6s training
Under 6s training at White Lee Playing Fields offers a friendly introduction to rugby for children in Year 1. Young players practice fundamental skills through age-appropriate activities, build confidence, and make new friends in a supportive setting. Families seeking a positive start to the sport can expect an emphasis on learning the basics and having fun.
white lee playing fieldsSummer Concert Series 2026
Live music fills Thursday evenings all summer at Depot Park. The Summer Concert Series brings recurring concerts to the park throughout the season.
Sanford Depot ParkTrivia Thursday
Trivia Thursday brings friendly competition to Rudino’s Pizza & Grinders every Thursday night. Come with friends, test your knowledge across a variety of trivia categories, and enjoy drink specials during the event. Reservations are recommended, and a Thursday Pasta Night is also part of the lineup.
Rudino's Pizza & Grinders - Southern PinesThe Hobbit Prerelease
Venture into Middle-earth for a Hobbit-themed prerelease at Raven Forge. A rising threat looms, and the choice is yours... wield the One Ring to outmaneuver rivals or rely on steadfast Elven allies. Each prerelease pack includes age-old artifacts, daunting beasts, and potent magic to influence your path. Entry is $35.
Raven Forge GamesWhiskey Pines
Whiskey Pines brings smooth grooves and soulful energy to The Smoke and Barrel. The acoustic rock duo blends folk and classic rock influences, with frontman Tim Stelmat’s rich vocals and jazzy slap-strumming guitar complemented by Bobby Hancock’s harmonica lines and acoustic leads. Covering songs from the 1960s through today, they put a distinctive spin on each tune for a laid-back yet lively performance. Food is available beforehand, then the music carries the evening.
The Smoke and BarrelKaraoke Championship
Get ready for a lively karaoke showdown where singers compete for monthly honors. At each event, the crowd crowns a new champion who receives a GOAT medal. Monthly winners return to face off for the karaoke championship belt. The event is free, and only participants age 21 and over may compete.
Hugger Mugger BrewingZumba Fundraiser
Get moving for a high-energy Zumba fundraiser hosted by the Ascend Leadership Academy Lady Aviators Basketball Program at Ascend Leadership Academy. Everyone is welcome, including ALA families and students, students from all schools, community members, friends and neighbors, and Zumba lovers from across the area. Adults are $15, students are $10, and children 5 and under are free. Every registration and donation helps support the 2026–2027 Lady Aviators Basketball Program. Bring a friend and help invest in the next generation of Lady Aviators.
Ascend Leadership AcademyCurry, Jerk & Jollof Fest
Curry, Jerk & Jollof Fest brings a lively celebration of food, music, and community to Tasting Queens Market. The daylong experience features food trucks and local craft and merchandise vendors, with live DJ sets, drummers, and dancers keeping the energy high throughout. It highlights bold flavors and the traditions of Caribbean and West African cultures while creating opportunities to connect with local businesses. A VIP option includes live culinary demonstrations that offer an up-close look at the techniques behind the dishes. Expect great food, authentic culture, and a strong sense of community in one place.
Tasting Queens MarketThe Hobbit Prerelease
Step into Middle-earth for a special prerelease at Raven Forge, where a rising darkness places the fate of the realm in your hands. Choose your path, whether by slipping past foes with the power of the One Ring or by trusting in loyal Elves to stand by your side. Each Prerelease Pack is packed with age-old artifacts, terrifying creatures, and potent magic that can shape every decision you make. Entry is $35.
Raven Forge GamesTaylor Phillips Writer's Cup Invitational
At Quail Ridge Golf Course, the Taylor Phillips Writer's Cup Invitational gathers community leaders, partners, and supporters for an invitational golf tournament hosted by Visit Sanford and Downtown Sanford, Inc. The day centers on friendly competition, opportunities to connect, and a celebration of Sanford’s community spirit in a relaxed, sportsmanlike setting. Participants can expect an organized experience on the course, plenty of chances to network, and a finish highlighted by music.
Quail Ridge Golf CourseSanford Farmers Market
At the Sanford Farmers Market at Pilgrim’s Sanford Agricultural Marketplace in Sanford, Agape Lavender Lab will be on site with a complete selection of lavender-focused products, crafted with ingredients informed by research to support simple daily rituals like relaxation, renewal, and a fresh start. Shoppers can also find fresh herb plants grown on the farm. Visitors are welcome to experience the scents, sample items, and explore options before choosing what to take home. If you have been curious about plant-derived, natural products and want to try them firsthand, this visit offers that opportunity. Agape Lavender Lab appears one Saturday each month, so look for them when they are in town, ask questions, and discover what suits you best.
Pilgrim's Sanford Agricultural MarketplaceChess Club
Join Chess Club at Chatham Community Library for a friendly games session. Matches are held at the tables in the Reference section. This is for teens through adults of all skill levels, and beginners are welcome. Chess sets are provided.
Chatham Community LibrarySlammers Volleyball Try-Outs (Ages 12, 13, 14, & 15)
This session offers another opportunity to try out for The Slammers at Ascend Leadership Academy. Volleyball players ages 12, 13, 14, and 15 can participate and demonstrate their skills. The announcement also notes a PDF with clickable links for more information.
Ascend Leadership AcademyLCL Story Time
Lee County Libraries brings Story Time in the Park to outdoor spaces around the community, rotating among four parks on a regular schedule. Little ones and the adults who love reading with them can enjoy stories, songs, dancing, and playful movement in the fresh air. Bring a blanket and a favorite stuffed animal to get cozy under a shelter or gazebo while the tales unfold. This welcoming program is geared to toddlers and preschoolers, with fun for all ages.
Horton ParkPub Trivia
Doherty’s Irish Pub and Restaurant hosts free pub trivia every Tuesday, with prizes going to the top three teams. Trivia starts at 7:00 PM and runs until 9:00 PM, and the event is hosted by Patrick W. Trivia is free to play.
Doherty's Irish Pub & RestaurantYouth Mental Health First Aid - August 11
Youth Mental Health First Aid is an in-person course for adults who care about young people. It’s designed to help parents, caregivers, teachers, school staff, peers, and other community members learn what to look for when an adolescent (ages 12 to 18) may be dealing with a mental health or addictions challenge, or is in crisis. You will cover common youth mental health topics such as anxiety, depression, substance use, psychosis-related disorders, disruptive behavior (including ADHD), and eating disorders, along with a practical 5-step action plan for helping in both crisis and non-crisis situations. RSVP is required and the class is limited to 8 participants.
Benhaven Public LibraryLadies Night: Casual Commander
Raven Forge Games hosts a Ladies Night devoted to Magic: The Gathering Commander. It centers on friendly, low pressure play where meeting fellow players and building community come first. Those still learning are supported, with staff available to answer questions and help with the basics. Bring a favorite Commander deck and settle in for casual games in a welcoming atmosphere.
Raven Forge GamesHorror Book Club
Thrill seekers who love a good scare can connect at Sips And Sequels for a recurring horror book discussion. The group reads a new horror title each month, then returns on the second Wednesday to dive into plot twists, themes, and favorite moments. At the end of each meeting, everyone votes to decide the next book. Carolyn and Emily, longtime members of the Sips And Sequels book community, guide the conversation and share their enthusiasm for the genre so participants can rediscover what makes horror so compelling.
Sips And SequelsBook Club
An informal book club meets at Hugger Mugger Brewing to discuss books chosen by the group. Participants select the titles and gather once a month for conversation. Beer, wine, and cider are often consumed.
Hugger Mugger BrewingTrivia Wednesday Nights
Trivia Night returns to Bell Tree Tavern in Southern Pines. Bring your smartest friends and form a team for a fun, friendly round of trivia with prizes for the top finishers. Expect a lively atmosphere and the chance to win weekly rewards such as gift cards and appetizers. Reservations are recommended.
The Bell Tree TavernUnder 6s training
A welcoming rugby session for children under six offers a fun introduction to the sport at White Lee Playing Fields. Tailored for Year 1 kids, it focuses on simple skills, playful drills, and plenty of social time so young players can build confidence, make friends, and enjoy learning the game.
white lee playing fieldsSummer Concert Series 2026
Depot Park hosts a summer concert series with live performances by local and regional bands in a relaxed outdoor setting. The event is suitable for all ages and free to attend. Attendees are welcome to bring lawn chairs and blankets, settle in on the lawn, and enjoy the music throughout the summer.
Depot ParkBlues Jam
Blues Jam is a weekly open jam night featuring live blues music at The Mod. Hosted by Lo Taylor, it’s a relaxed chance to share your voice or instrument, or just come listen to a great set on the stage. Arrive a bit early to sign up as a musician or to grab a table for the evening.
The MODTrivia Thursday
Trivia Thursday Nights in Southern Pines is a weekly trivia night at Rudino’s Pizza & Grinders, where you can bring friends and compete in a variety of trivia categories. Enjoy friendly competition along with food and drink specials, plus Thursday Pasta Night. Reservations are recommended, so it’s a good idea to call ahead for details and seating availability.
Rudino's Pizza & Grinders5 Seconds of Summer
5 Seconds of Summer takes the stage at Coastal Credit Union Music Park at Walnut Creek in Raleigh, NC for a live concert.
Raleigh, NCThe Mixtapes
At The Smoke and Barrel, The MixTapes bring a five-piece group from North Carolina’s Triangle with a wide-ranging cover set. The music spans Linda Ronstadt and Fleetwood Mac, Miranda Lambert and Whitney Houston, AC/DC and Van Halen, plus classics from Bruce Springsteen, Billy Joel, the Rolling Stones, the Beatles, and more. Expect a lively, dance-ready mix of familiar favorites across genres.
The Smoke and BarrelThe Hawk Boozy Cruise
Get ready for a fun, boozy night inspired by everyone’s favorite confidence-filled golf legend. Dress in your brightest golf gear and bring a visor if you want, then hop aboard for themed stops, cold drinks, ridiculous games, and plenty of laughs. Golf skills aren’t required, but embracing your inner Hawk is strongly encouraged for an unforgettable night in the Pines.
Railhouse BreweryNC Concealed Handgun
This is a North Carolina concealed carry course for permit certification, offered by Trace Armory Group. It takes place at their Siler City location and is focused on getting you certified through the course experience.
Trace Armory GroupNC 15-6 Chapter Meeting
This chapter meeting brings brothers and sisters together to catch up, share laughs, talk shop, and keep the mission of Vets Helping Vets moving forward. Longtime members, new faces, and those simply interested in learning more are welcome, with a focus on strengthening bonds both on and off the road. Attendees can connect, contribute, and enjoy the camaraderie that makes this chapter special.
American Legion Post 382 Sanford, NCSanford Farmers’ Market
Join the 2026 Sanford Farmers’ Market at Pilgrim’s Sanford Agricultural Marketplace for a Saturday morning of locally grown, raised, caught, and crafted goods. Browse fresh produce, meats, baked goods, flowers, and ready-to-eat items, all from participating producers. The market is free and runs every Saturday during the season.
Pilgrim's Sanford Agricultural MarketplaceLine Dancing
Line dancers gather at Hugger Mugger Brewing for a welcoming afternoon of choreographed routines. A growing, twice-monthly group creates a friendly setting for beginners and seasoned dancers alike, with options suited to every skill level. The ticket includes instruction, time for social dancing, and a beer.
Hugger Mugger Brewing CompanyFantasy Book Club
A monthly book club at Sips And Sequels celebrates every corner of fantasy, including epic and low fantasy, romantasy, cozy reads, and darker stories. Discussions focus on the current selection, and participants bring one suggestion so the group can vote on the following month’s read.
Sips And SequelsBlast From the Past Camp
Get ready to rewind at Blast From the Past Camp! Campers ages 7 to 12 will travel through the decades with retro games, classic TV, iconic music, and pop culture, plus plenty of funky, hands-on crafts. The camp runs Monday through Friday, 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM, for a fast-paced week of throwback fun at Mann Center for the Arts.
MANN Center for the ArtsCCA Girls Varsity Volleyball @ Jordan-Matthews
Central Carolina Academy Girls Varsity volleyball will play an away non-conference match against Jordan-Matthews. The game is scheduled for Monday evening.
Jordan-MatthewsCraft Camp
Craft Camp is a half-day, Monday-through-Friday creative camp for ages 7 to 12. Campers will explore process-based art and dive into hands-on projects, experimenting with color, texture, and new techniques to make one-of-a-kind creations. Please send your child with a snack and a water bottle each day.
MANN Center for the ArtsCommunity Resilience Model (CRM®) - August 18
The Community Resilience Model (CRM®) is an evidence-based, skills-focused program that helps community members support themselves and others. Through hands-on activities, discussions, and practice, participants will learn practical tools aimed at helping reset the nervous system balance. The session also emphasizes building trauma-informed, resilience-focused communities by exploring how trauma and chronic stress affect the nervous system and how resilience can be restored or enhanced using this approach. RSVP is required and the program is limited to 8 participants.
Benhaven Public LibraryTrivia Wednesday Nights
Trivia Night is back at Bell Tree Tavern in Southern Pines. Bring your smartest friends for an evening of trivia with friendly competition and prizes. Play across a variety of categories while you enjoy food and drinks. Weekly prizes are awarded to the top teams, with gift cards and appetizers, and teams may also have a chance at special quarterly prizes during the season. Reservations are recommended.
The Bell Tree TavernThird Thursday - Downtown Back to School Night
Third Thursday Back to School Night brings the community together at Depot Park in downtown Sanford for a free celebration of the coming school year. Families, students, and educators can discover helpful local resources, enjoy activities for kids, and connect with one another in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere. Make it a full evening by exploring nearby businesses to shop or dine before or after the event.
Depot ParkTrivia Thursday
Trivia Thursday is a weekly trivia night at Rudino’s Pizza & Grinders in Southern Pines, with a variety of trivia categories and friendly competition. Come with friends to test your knowledge, enjoy great food, and take advantage of drink specials. Reservations are recommended for details and seating availability.
Rudino's Pizza & Grinders - Southern PinesFree Range Beets
Free Range Beets brings a farm-fresh spirit and an easygoing vibe, offering great music for a laid back listening experience. The set spans eras and styles, moving freely across genres without limits and keeping the spotlight on great songs.
The Smoke and BarrelLEGO Club
Bring your imagination to LEGO Club, a weekly free-build session for builders of all ages. You can work solo or team up with others to create something from scratch, then share what you made. Younger kids can also use Duplo blocks in the Holmes Meeting Room.
Chatham Community LibraryBlast from the Past Music Series: Liquid Pleasure
MOSAIC’s Blast from the Past Music Series continues with Liquid Pleasure. Come enjoy an evening of retro sounds in the heart of the community.
Philip H. Kohl MOSAIC Family CommonsTradeLock Monthly Meeting
Come meet local contractors and other home services professionals at the TradeLock Monthly Meeting. This is an in-person networking and information session focused on building trusted referral partnerships, sharing challenges and opportunities, and learning how TradeLock connects homeowners with reputable service providers. Admission is free, with registration encouraged.
Sanford Area Growth Alliance18th Annual Run For Their Lives! 2026
This event offers in person and virtual participation in chip timed 5k and 10k run or walk courses that start and finish in Sanford’s Kiwanis Park and travel through the historic district. A challenge option rewards those who complete both distances with a special medal. A half mile fun run for kids is included. Dogs and strollers are welcome on all routes. Walking the 5k is encouraged, and anyone walking the 10k is asked to keep a pace of at least 15 minutes per mile. Registration details will be posted soon.
Kiwanis Family ParkUsui Reiki Level 1 Certification
Explore the foundations of Reiki in a two-day, 10-hour Level 1 certification rooted in the Usui Shiki Ryoho tradition. Designed for those drawn to self-care, energy awareness, nervous system support, and compassionate presence, it offers a meaningful starting point for personal development or the first step toward a healing practice. Participants learn the history and core principles of Reiki, grounding and energy-awareness practices, and self-treatment methods in a supportive, embodied learning environment. The training includes a Level 1 attunement, a printed manual, guided hands-on practice, instruction in hand positions for self care, energy and grounding techniques, ethical and responsible practice, tea, and a certificate upon completion. No previous experience is required. The intimate format makes room for practice, integration, questions, and connection. This is a two-day training, and attendance on both days is necessary to earn certification. Cost is $222.
Seva Yoga NCSanford Car News: 2026 Cruise Ins
Come out for the Sanford Car News Cruise Ins at Spring Lane Cinemas Parking Lot. This monthly cruise-in is open to all makes, models, and years, and it features food trucks, 50/50 tickets, door prizes, live music, a charity food drive, and plenty of cool rides.
Spring Lane CinemasMeet The Maker: Raleigh Popsicle Co
Beat the August heat with a sweet Meet the Maker tasting featuring Raleigh Popsicle Co. Stop by Fair Game Beverage Company during Fair Game's Figgy Jubilee to sample fresh fruit flavors, hear the husband-and-wife story behind the business, and enjoy a cool summer afternoon with popsicles.
Fair Game Beverage CompanyStorytime
Books at a Steal presents a new storytime featuring volunteer reader Sara, who will share a selection of the shop’s favorite children’s books. The gathering will be on the Mezzanine Level, accessible by elevator from the lobby.
Books at a StealUNCORKED- A Weekly Wine Experience
Join Cork for Uncorked, a guided blind wine tasting experience held weekly. For $25, you’ll get four 2 oz. blind pours of rotating new varietals, then finish with a full 6 oz. glass of your favorite wine from the tasting. It’s designed to be social, relaxed, and approachable, with no labels or formal instruction. Seating is limited to 12.
CORKTrivia Wednesday Nights in Southern Pines
Trivia Night returns to Bell Tree Tavern in Southern Pines for a fun midweek competition. Put together a team and test your knowledge across a variety of categories while enjoying food, drinks, and the upbeat atmosphere. Prizes are awarded to the top teams, including a $25 gift card for first place, a $15 gift card for second place, and a free appetizer for third place. Reservations are recommended.
The Bell Tree TavernTrivia Thursday
Test your knowledge with Trivia Thursday nights at Rudino’s Pizza & Grinders. Expect a friendly competition with a variety of trivia categories, plus drink specials and a Thursday Pasta Night to make the evening extra fun. Reservations are recommended, and it’s a welcoming event for trivia lovers and first-timers alike.
Rudino's Pizza & Grinders - Southern PinesZane's Carolina Expo
Zane’s Carolina Expo brings a two day shopping experience to the Dennis A. Wicker Civic and Conference Center, gathering local businesses, entrepreneurs, artisans, food vendors, food trucks, and community partners from across North Carolina and nearby communities. Founded by Dr. Chef Zane Marks and Dr. Akilah Marks of Zane’s Carolina Seasoning, the expo grew from their years as vendors and their commitment to entrepreneurship, community connections, and Carolina pride. Shoppers of all ages can explore food, fashion, crafts, services, and entertainment in a welcoming, professional setting that encourages meaningful connections between businesses and customers. The event’s mission is to help small businesses grow, showcase quality products and services, and strengthen local economies through an engaging marketplace. As members of the Got To Be NC program, the organizers highlight North Carolina businesses, products, and agriculture while fostering lasting relationships among vendors, sponsors, and shoppers.
Dennis A. Wicker Civic and Conference CenterWalk-in Adoption Event
Meet adoptable cats and dogs at a walk-in adoption event at the Lee County Animal Shelter. Walk-ins are welcome, and adoptions are processed in the order of arrival. An approved adoption contract is required before a pet can go home. Friendly staff will be on hand while you search for a new companion and help an animal find a forever home.
Lee County Animal Services2026 Sanford Farmers’ Market at Pilgrim’s Sanford Agricultural Marketplace
Head to the new Pilgrim’s Sanford Agricultural Marketplace for the Sanford Farmers’ Market, where you can browse and shop locally grown, raised, caught, and crafted goods. This producer-only market is a great place to find fresh produce, meats, baked goods, flowers, and ready-to-eat items, all while supporting new farmers and affordable, healthy food in the Sandhills region.
Pilgrim's Sanford Agricultural MarketplaceCrafts & Laughs Craft Club: "Just in Case" Altoid Tins (Sanford NC)
This Crafts & Laughs Craft Club session at Hugger Mugger Brewing in Sanford, NC centers on turning an Altoid tin into a practical “just in case” creation. Personalize your tin with shimmering gems, decorative trim, and beads, then enjoy a complimentary drink from the brewery. Artist Jessica Rigsbee leads the hands-on crafting, and all supplies are provided. Expect a relaxed, social atmosphere with plenty of laughs, and head home with a one-of-a-kind tin and good memories.
Hugger Mugger BrewingGrow and Flow Yoga
A free outdoor Grow and Flow yoga session takes place in the peaceful setting of Sanford’s Kiwanis Family Park. Open to newcomers and seasoned practitioners alike, this all-levels class helps you stretch, build strength, and center your attention amid nature. It offers a simple way to support well-being and continue growing your practice.
Kiwanis Family ParkHayley Williams
Hayley Williams brings her 2026 tour to Coastal Credit Union Music Park at Walnut Creek in Raleigh, North Carolina. The event features a live performance by the artist as the tour stops in the city.
Raleigh, NCTNMC – Tuesday Night Music Club LIVE at The Smoke & Barrel
Sanford’s Tuesday Night Music Club brings its feel-good live show back to The Smoke & Barrel. The band leans into classic rock, country favorites, and Americana, pairing the songs with confident lead vocals and rich harmonies. Performances are relaxed and welcoming, ideal for sipping bourbon, sharing a round with friends, and settling into an easygoing night of music. With years together as a local group, they keep the bar buzzing without overpowering the room, offering good music, good company, and a laid-back soundtrack for the evening.
The Smoke and BarrelSecond Sundays: Concerts
Second Sundays is a free, family-friendly outdoor concert series at Kiwanis Family Park, held on the second Sunday of each month during the spring and fall. Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets, gather with friends and family, and enjoy live performances by local and regional bands in a relaxed park setting. Free admission and an easygoing vibe make it a pleasant way to wrap up the weekend.
Kiwanis Family ParkBier Garten Garden Club
This meeting of the Bier Garten Garden Club, led by Lee County’s NC Cooperative Extension office, focuses on bonsai with a special feature from the Sandhills Bonsai Club. It is part of a no-cost series open to everyone, held on six Mondays during the year to support more confident, successful gardening. Across the series, topics include local soils in Lee County, composting, propagation from cuttings, vermicomposting, and growing herbs.
Hugger Mugger Brewing Company80's Unleashed
The Smoke and Barrel hosts an 80s dance night featuring 80's Unleashed, a high-energy band from Central NC. Led by Harnett Co./Sanford native Bryan Shaw, this four-member group brings back the era of big hair, loud guitars, and singalong anthems. The set spans artists such as Journey, Bon Jovi, Prince, and Poison, creating a soundtrack for dancing and singing along. Costumes, big hair, and retro moves are encouraged.
The Smoke and BarrelCash Money & No Limit Tour - Master P, Birdman, Juvenile & Mannie Fresh
The Cash Money and No Limit Tour brings Master P, Birdman, Juvenile, and Mannie Fresh to Lenovo Center in Raleigh. This tour stop features these artists together on the same bill at the venue.
Raleigh, NCQuarters for CARA
Experience a lively quarter auction that blends the excitement of bidding with the fun of raffles and shopping. Bring a couple of rolls of quarters, then place bids of one to four quarters on featured items. If your paddle number is called, you win. There will be plenty of prizes and products to go after, and it all benefits the animals at Carolina Animal Rescue & Adoption. Guest tables will have complimentary snacks and drinks courtesy of the vendors. Expect lots of raffles, a 50/50 auction, and a variety of vendors to browse, offering many chances to win. Dogs from CARA will be in attendance.
Steven's Center SanfordMutts, Makers & More Fest
Mutts, Makers & More Fest returns with a lively mix of local vendors, delicious food, and handmade finds, creating a welcoming atmosphere for shopping, eating, and time with fellow animal lovers and their pets. In recognition of World Rabies Day, the event features a low cost rabies vaccine clinic. Vaccines are $10, with a 3 year option available when proof of prior vaccination is provided and a 1 year option available without previous documentation. For the safety of everyone, dogs must stay on non retractable leashes and cats must remain in secure carriers. Dogs and cats receiving rabies vaccines must be at least 12 weeks old. Please ensure your pet is comfortable around people and other animals, or plan to let them wait in an air conditioned vehicle until their turn. The day focuses on fun, education, and responsible pet care, celebrating the bond between people and animals.
Chris Cole
Chris Cole, a veteran singer and songwriter from Burlington, North Carolina, brings a versatile mix of country, rock, pop, and R&B. After years performing in downtown Nashville, he has a knack for reading the room and keeping audiences entertained.
The Smoke and Barrel2026 Triple Crown Charity Car Show
The Triple Crown Charity Car Show returns to the Dennis A. Wicker Conference and Civic Center through a collaboration between local car enthusiasts and Sanford Car News. The event features three showcase areas. The Automotive Legends Exhibit presents 31 renowned vehicles displayed indoors in the climate controlled main hall. The Selects Display highlights 30 exceptional restorations and custom builds, with 20 chosen in advance and 10 selected from the Open Class entries during the event. The Open Class Car Show welcomes all makes and models of cars, trucks, motorcycles and more. Participants can drive in, make a $20 charitable donation that also grants entry to the Legends Exhibit, park for judging by knowledgeable judges, and compete for trophies awarded to the top 30 scoring vehicles. No pre registration is required. Spectators are also welcome to cruise in at no cost to enjoy the show, and a $5 charitable donation provides access to the indoor Legends Exhibit for cruise in guests. Added attractions include a tractor showcase and a Model Car and LEGO show set in the main hall. Expect live music, door prizes, 50/50 tickets, a swap meet featuring automotive parts, oil and gas items and antiques, outdoor vendor spaces, food trucks, games, and model car building for kids. More than 100 trophies and awards will be presented. All proceeds benefit the Lee County Education Foundation, the Christians United Outreach Center of Lee County, the CCCC Auto Restoration Program, the Lee County Sheriff’s Department, the Sanford Fire Department, and the Sanford Police Department. In case of rain, the indoor Legends Exhibit will remain open. Sponsorship opportunities are available for both businesses and individuals. For questions, contact Jonathon Nowell at 919-356-6363, John Jinnings at 260-615-5210, or Graham Maxwell at 919-770-0503.
Downtown Sanford StreetFest
An annual celebration in downtown Sanford fills the streets with live music, flavorful food, local makers and artists, and activities for all ages. The area transforms into a walkable showcase of culture and community spirit, where visitors can enjoy performances, browse vendor booths, and sample a variety of tastes. It is a lively tradition that highlights Sanford’s creativity, diversity, and pride.
Downtown Sanford Historic DistrictThird Thursday - Downtown Trick-or-Treating
Downtown Sanford, North Carolina transforms into a Halloween celebration for Third Thursday, featuring trick or treating at businesses throughout the district. Costumed kids can collect sweets, admire glowing jack-o-lanterns, and enjoy festive touches around every corner. A costume contest takes place at Charlie Watson Lane, giving creative looks a moment in the spotlight. Costumes and candy buckets add to the fun.
Downtown Sanford, North CarolinaColby Jack & The High Lifes LIVE at The Smoke & Barrel
Colby Jack & The High Lifes return to The Smoke & Barrel with rugged, road-worn country that still feels timeless. Their set draws on traditional roots, weaving familiar country favorites with original songs while carrying forward the spirit of classic honky-tonk and outlaw country. The show is sharp and unfussy, suited to a room that prizes real musicianship and a good time. Listeners who gravitate to classic country tones, straightforward performances, and songs with lived-in stories will feel right at home.
The Smoke and BarrelTrail Clean-Ups
The cleanup begins at the Gazebo and focuses on caring for local greenways and park spaces, offering a chance to spend time outdoors with friends and neighbors while making a positive impact. All supplies are provided, and gloves are recommended for comfort and protection. Comfortable shoes are suggested. The effort aims to keep Sanford’s parks clean and welcoming for everyone.
Honey Talk with Jody
At Kiwanis Family Park, master beekeeper Jody Moore leads a talk about bees, explaining how honey is produced in Sanford and sharing insights about these vital pollinators. After the presentation, attendees can create a bee themed craft to take home. Admission is free, supplies are limited, and advance registration is requested.
Kiwanis Family ParkJohnny Blue Skies & The Dark Clouds
This event brings Johnny Blue Skies & The Dark Clouds to Lenovo Center in Raleigh, North Carolina.
Raleigh, NCNext Stop Comedy at Wild Dogs Brewing
Next Stop Comedy brings stand-up to Wild Dogs Brewing with a different lineup at every show. The bill features comedians with television appearances and podcast credits, presented in an intimate brewery setting.
Wild Dogs BrewingErik Hawks
North Carolina native Erik Hawks brings a country sound rooted in heartfelt songwriting. Influenced by Vince Gill, Ryan Adams, and Chris Stapleton, he crafts songs that dive into real emotion while staying personal and easy to relate to.
The Smoke and BarrelChalkWalk and Artisan Fair
Experience a lively marketplace in beautiful Lunenburg, Nova Scotia, where talented artisans, local flavors, and live entertainment come together. More than 150 vendors fill multiple buildings, with an additional space added for 2026, and outdoor tents and live music create a festive atmosphere. Browse handmade goods such as pottery, woodworking, glass art, textiles, home decor, and jewelry crafted by creators from across Nova Scotia. Savor baked treats, fudge, nuts, specialty foods, and beverages, along with food trucks and local wines, with food options available each day. Admission includes a weekend pass bracelet. Only service dogs are allowed inside buildings. Bringing cash is recommended for a smooth shopping experience. For more information, email Sabcreationkey50@gmail.com.
ACOTAR 6 Midnight Release Party at MonkeyKat Books!
MonkeyKat Books presents a celebration for the sixth installment of Sarah J. Maas’s A Court of Thorns and Roses series. Fans can immerse themselves in Prythian with ACOTAR trivia, themed activities, and refreshments inspired by the Night Court, all building to a release moment when attendees take home their copy of ACOTAR 6. Tickets are $35 and include the new book, refreshments, and access to all activities and trivia. Costumes and ACOTAR inspired outfits are encouraged. Space is limited.
Boo & Brew Ghost Tour Weekend
Set in Downtown Sanford, the Boo & Brew Ghost Tour blends a pub crawl with a grown up take on trick or treating and shares eerie slices of local history. A self guided audio tour tells stories of figures like Ernest Badgett at the Temple Theatre and the mysterious Tuckers at Depot Park. Participating bars and restaurants pour themed drinks, including the Wicked Peach of the Yeast at Hugger Mugger Brewing and a Vampire's Blood Mimosa at Mrs. Lacy's. Guests can pick up a souvenir cup and follow the route at their own pace, or opt for a guided walking tour for a closer look at these historic haunts. Participating locations may include Hugger Mugger Brewing Company, The Smoke & Barrel, Wild Dogs Brewing Company, Local Joe's Tap & Grill, La Dolce Vita Pizzeria, and Libations 139. Locations and offerings are subject to change and availability may be limited.