This weekend in Valdese, NC

Settle in for a story, then move into a creative session painting a ceramic bear magnet. Every child receives their own piece to decorate and may work independently or with help from a guardian or a staff member. Participants can take as much time as they need to paint. When finished, the piece stays at the studio for firing and will be available for pickup one week later.

Experience a refreshing, joint-friendly workout in a warm indoor pool kept at a steady 88 degrees. This water-based cardio class pairs aerobic conditioning with the natural resistance of the water to build strength and endurance while remaining gentle on the joints. The format changes regularly to keep sessions engaging, and the setting is supportive for participants of all fitness levels, especially those seeking effective, low impact movement. Access is included with a Fitness Plus membership, and nonmembers or guests may participate for $8 per class. The class is held in the indoor heated pool at Fitness Plus at Catawba Valley Medical Center.

Free to attend, this family-operated, all-ages festival centers on peace and community spirit. Browse booths from creative makers offering handmade goods and event tie-dye shirts, add some color with face painting, and watch a fairy performer creating bubbles. Enjoy complimentary yoga, live music, kid friendly activities, photo opportunities, and other surprises throughout the day. Creative vendors are welcome to apply. For questions or application details, contact hippyvalleypeacefest@gmail.com. To avoid scams, note that acceptance messages and any payment requests will come only from that official email.

An evening of stand-up at American Legion Valdese Post 234 supports Friends for Animals, the Humane Society of Burke County. Headliner Clay Foley, a former animal cruelty investigator and dedicated animal rescuer, appears as part of his Comedy to the Rescue tour, created to raise funds for animal charities. The show also features opening comedian Ryan Cox. Tickets are $20 in advance or $25 at the door. To prepay, call the shelter at 828-433-1115, visit the shelter, or use PayPal and include “Comedy Night” in the memo. Content may include adult language and themes, and the event is recommended for ages 16 and up.

Set in the Carolina hills, Caution! Blind Driver presents a music event at Starlight Hills Campground. The scenic surroundings create a welcoming atmosphere for families.

Both singers come together in one show. Scotty starts with a set from his solo project, then returns to the stage with Jared during the Saving Abel headlining performance to share vocals. The format blends a solo opener with a collaborative headlining set.

Foreigner's Journey brings a high-energy celebration of the arena rock catalogs of Foreigner and Journey to Newton Performing Arts Center. The show blends crowd-pleasing anthems and sweeping power ballads, with faithful renditions of favorites like Feels Like the First Time, Hot Blooded, Separate Ways, I Want to Know What Love Is, Anyway You Want It, and Don't Stop Believing. Fronted by a YouTube-recognized vocalist with a wide range that closely matches the original voices, the band delivers a powerhouse performance designed for a memorable night. Tickets are priced from $40 to $45.