September 23rd @ 6:00 PM

Johnston County is at a crossroads, as rapid development transforms farmland into neighborhoods and commercial centers.

With the Universal Development Ordinance (UDO) guiding land use and zoning decisions, residents from Clayton, Smithfield, and Benson are voicing concerns about the future balance of growth and tradition.

Farmers worry about losing productive fields, while increased construction runoff threatens local streams, rivers, and drinking water.

As key decisions approach, advocates urge residents to participate and help steer sustainable growth that preserves the heart of North Carolina.

Read to Grow Johnston County has launched its fifth annual Attendance Awareness Month Poster Contest, inviting preschool through fifth-grade students to creatively showcase why showing up to school matters.

Open to public, private, charter, and homeschool students, the contest judges entries on theme, design, and creativity.

Winners will receive a gift pack and have their artwork featured on Read to Grow's social media and displayed at their schools.

The Johnston County Board of Commissioners officially proclaimed September 2026 as Attendance Awareness Month.

Writers connected to Johnston County have a special opportunity this year to gain recognition for their work.

The project welcomes a variety of formats—essays, poems, stories, and historical entries—as long as they relate to Johnston County’s people or places.

The Johnston County Heritage Center will publish its third Literary and Historical Journal, featuring both established and fresh local voices.

Submissions open in mid-September, close by late October, and both adult and junior writers—especially high schoolers—are encouraged to share their creativity.

KS Bank is rallying its customers and neighbors to support animals in need through a Pet Supply Donation Drive running through Friday, September 25.

Donations will benefit animal shelters across Johnston, Wilson, Wayne, Wake, Harnett and Nash counties, helping pets find comfort while they wait for forever homes.

Community members can drop off pet food, treats, toys, bedding, towels and cleaning supplies at any KS Bank branch during regular business hours.

The Clayton Center will host a local vendor event on October 1, 2026, from 4–8 p.m., bringing together small businesses while raising funds for a meaningful cause.

The four-hour, public event is designed to support local vendors and benefit Harbor House of JoCo, a private nonprofit in Johnston County dedicated to serving victims and survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault.

The Clayton farmers market has become a vibrant centerpiece for the local community, drawing residents from across North Carolina each Saturday to 348 E. Main Street.

The scene bursts with the aroma of fresh bread, ripe peaches, and brewing coffee, while stalls showcase a colorful array of seasonal produce.

Area farmers and artisans proudly offer everything from organic greens and sweet strawberries to hand-poured candles and unique soaps.

Clayton, North Carolina, is bringing neighbors together with a vibrant series of community free market and skill-sharing events at Phillip R. Wright Community Park, 988 Powhatan Road.

Residents are invited to give and receive goods freely — no cash, bartering, or trades — creating an atmosphere of pure community generosity.

The People’s Free Market is set for Saturday, September 26th, from 1 to 3 p.m., while similar events across the Triangle, including Cary, highlight a regional push for collective support.

Halloween in Clayton, NC promises extra excitement this year, thanks to the annual costume swap and the highly anticipated spooky story contest at Hocutt-Ellington Memorial Library.

Children are invited to express their creativity through a variety of festive events, including the chance to trade for new-to-them costumes from racks overflowing with playful choices.

The swap is open to all, and families can take home costumes without donating, making the tradition inclusive for every child.

Moo Moos Around the World is coming to The Woman's Club of Clayton on Saturday, October 3rd from 7 PM to 10 PM — and it's anything but ordinary.

This year's signature event takes the beloved Moo Moos & Margaritas concept on an international adventure, with guests whisked away to surprise destinations like Mexico, Jamaica, Morocco, and Japan — all in one evening.

The Kenly Public Library is a vital community hub, welcoming visitors of all ages with a broad range of services and resources.

Computer access is available to all, with extra guidance for younger users. Open board meetings give the community a chance to be heard.

Every Tuesday and Wednesday, you have Story Hour for the little ones.

The historic games event at Kenly’s Tobacco Farm Life Museum continues to unite the community, inviting residents of all ages to rediscover time-honored pastimes.

Families can test their skills at classic favorites like marbles and horseshoes, surrounded by laughter and friendly competition.

Admission is always free, drawing growing excitement and rekindling a shared joy in tradition.

Princeton’s public library has become a vibrant community hub, offering diverse events for families, children, and adults year-round.

Story Time draws pre-first-grade kids weekly for stories, crafts, and lively activities—sometimes featuring special guests or unique offsite adventures to keep little ones and parents engaged.

On the last Monday of each month, Spanish Story Time celebrates cultural diversity and invites more families to join the fun.

Experience the heart and soul of real country music at The Rudy Theatre.

Our 10-member cast brings the classics to life with fresh energy, powerful sound, and dazzling lights. 

The Miss Selma Railroad Days Pageant remains a cherished fall highlight in Selma, NC, drawing families and visitors eager to celebrate community tradition.

Excitement is building as applications open for the 2026 pageant, signaling the return of this much-anticipated event.

Organizers have expanded the pageant’s age divisions to welcome girls from 12 months up to 18 years old, ensuring that every participant finds her moment in the spotlight.

A vibrant Mexican buffet has opened at Eastfield Crossing in Selma, bringing new energy to Johnston County’s dining scene.

Located in the former Old North State Food Hall, the spacious restaurant quickly became a gathering spot for locals and travelers craving authentic flavors and welcoming service.

The grand opening buzzed with excitement as visitors sampled generous portions from a buffet blending classic Mexican specialties with familiar American favorites.

Favorites include hearty burritos, sizzling fajitas, fresh tortillas, seafood, and tempting desserts.

The Railroad Days Festival returns for its 51st year, celebrating Selma, NC’s rich rail history and vibrant community spirit.

Downtown Selma comes alive with a festive parade, welcoming locals and visitors to a weekend packed with tradition and excitement.

Food trucks serve up Southern barbecue and gourmet bites, keeping everyone satisfied throughout the festivities.

This year’s event spotlights new businesses and revitalized historic storefronts, bringing a fresh pulse to downtown Selma.

Selma Railroad Days is gearing up for its 51st annual celebration, and parade applications are now open!

Applications are available now and can be submitted online through the official Selma, NC website.

Whether you're a longtime participant or joining the parade for the first time, Selma Railroad Days promises to be a memorable community celebration worth being part of.

Selma Railroad Days 2026 is rolling in with a classic car show hosted by the Southland Car Club, and it's shaping up to be a highlight of the annual celebration.

The event takes place Saturday, October 3rd, starting at 12:30 PM in Downtown Selma, featuring chrome, muscle, and classic rides from across the region.

Admission is completely free, making it a perfect outing for the whole family.

The show is part of 51 years of Selma Railroad Days tradition — a beloved community staple that keeps growing every year.

Selma's tastiest competition is back — and registration is officially open for the Selma Firefighters' Association BBQ Cook-Off, part of the 51st Annual Selma Railroad Days Festival.

Teams can enter for just $40 and will fire up their grills at the Selma Fire Department Parking Lot on Friday, October 2nd.

Cooking kicks off Friday morning, with the Taster's Choice Competition at 5:30 PM and champions crowned at 8:00 PM.

The weekend kicks off Friday, October 2nd at 6 PM with the legendary The Tams, bringing their signature sound to downtown Selma.

On Saturday at 3 PM, Southern rock fans can catch Gimme Back My Skynyrd before the night truly ignites.

Organizers have officially announced Rev★On – The Foreigner Experience as the first main headliner, taking the stage Saturday, October 3rd from 7–8 PM in downtown Selma.

Run 4 Recovery is back in Smithfield, NC, bringing renewed hope to residents as runners and supporters unite for recovery awareness.

The annual event offers both a 5k and 10k, ensuring everyone, from seasoned athletes to newcomers, can participate.

As Smithfield grows and transforms, Run 4 Recovery fits perfectly with the town’s renewed sense of belonging and support.

Smithfield, NC is stepping up its fight against prediabetes with expanded local health initiatives focused on prevention and education.

Rising cases of type 2 diabetes risk have prompted many families to rethink their wellness routines and daily choices.

A new lifestyle change program recently opened on N. Brightleaf Blvd., welcoming adults 18 and older who are living with or at risk for prediabetes.

The arrival of the Bright Star musical in Smithfield, NC is sparking excitement throughout the community.

Set between the 1920s and 1940s, the story centers on Alice, a literary editor, facing the intertwined challenges of love, loss, and newfound connections upon meeting a veteran returning from World War II.

Alice’s journey is filled with hope and secrets, resonating strongly with local audiences familiar with tales of resilience.

Smithfield is bursting with anticipation as the annual scholarship pageant returns, offering fresh opportunities for local high school students.

This year’s event focuses on female students from Johnston County, inviting them to demonstrate their talent, leadership, and individuality while competing for valuable scholarships.

The pageant honors hometown legend Ava Gardner, whose enduring legacy inspires participants to embrace authenticity and confidence.