The first weekend of October is approaching, and it's a time many families head to the mountains for apple picking, fall activities and cooler weather - but this year is different. Many of our mountain communities are devastated by flooding from Helene, and travel to those areas is dangerous.
There are plenty of volunteer and donation opportunities available to help the people and communities in western North Carolina. Many local schools, businesses and churches are gathering supplies to send to those affected by Helene. Things like bottled water, non-perishable food, personal care items, baby formula, diapers, wipes, blankets and more are being collected.
Related article: From donations to volunteer work, how to help those affected by Helene
All North Carolina state parks west of I-77 are closed through at least Oct. 31, 2024, park officials said. Click here for a map of closures.
For those in parts of North Carolina not impacted by Helene, or if you lost power and are hoping to get out of the house this weekend, we've put together a list of some things happening around the state.
Grab a turkey leg and take a step back in time! The Carolina Renaissance Festival returns to Huntersville Saturdays and Sundays starting Oct. 5 through Nov. 24., from 9:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.
"Adventure awaits with games and rides, valiant jousting knights on horseback, majestic falconry, beautiful mermaids and fairies, friendly dragons, feasting, and so much more," event organizer posted.
With over 140 vendors, there's jewelry, arts and crafts available at the event's open-air market, and the opportunity to rent a costume for the day. Event-style food, like bread bowls, and beverages are available too. From tomato-tossing to a jousting show, entertainment is scattered through the park.
Tickets can be purchased ahead of time, since event organizers say they often sell out. Children under age 4 are free.
It's autumn in Mebane, and they're celebrating with their annual free festival. There will be live music, craft vendors, food trucks and a kids zone. Everything in the kids zone is free, including make-your-own bracelets, bounce houses, kids tattoos and and a rock climbing wall.
The event is from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 5. If it rains, the event will take place on the following day, Oct. 6.
Scotland County Highland Games
It's bagpipes and dancing this weekend for the Scotland County Highland Games. The event will start Saturday, Oct. 5 at the North Carolina Rural Heritage Center in Laurinburg, NC.
There is also a Highland Fling on Friday night from 5:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at McDuffie Square in downtown Laurinburg.
Click here for a schedule of events.
Saturday's concert will begin at 8 p.m. in the Avinger Auditorium on the campus of St. Andrews University.
It's fair season! Get ready for Ferris wheel rides, candy apples and stuffed animal game prizes. The Cleveland County Fair is open for the last weekend of the year.
Gates open at 9 a.m. Saturday and 11 a.m. on Sunday. The fair is also open Friday from 3 p.m. - 11 p.m.
Tickets start at $5.
Shakori Hills Grassroots Festival
Experience a music festival in the woods with craft and food vendors, kids activities, yoga, workshops and arts. Go for one day or three, and camp out on site! Camp by tent, RV or vehicle.
Nearly 60 bands and musical artists will be performing at the festival. Find the full lineup here.
The gate hours are:
- Friday: 9 a.m. - 12 a.m.
- Saturday: 9 a.m. - 11 p.m.
- Sunday: 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Tickets vary in price depending on the day, and children 12 and under are free. Camping tickets are also available.