This weekend in Sanford, NC

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.