Get ready for an evening of Halloween laughs in Clayton. Pavilion Plays hosts Luck Street Comedy on Friday, October 30, with two separate musical improv performances.

The family-friendly Monster Mash begins at 6 p.m., followed by a film-noir-inspired comedy show at 8 p.m. Both take place at 11155 Clayton Boulevard. Tickets are listed at $15.

Read more about the shows and what to expect from unscripted musical comedy.

The Woman's Club of Clayton is turning fall cleaning into an opportunity to help families through its Shoe Us the Love fundraiser.

The club hopes to collect 2,500 pairs of new and gently worn shoes by November 18, 2026. Donations can be dropped in the collection box by the mailbox at 848 Parkridge Drive in Clayton.

The shoes will help support micro-entrepreneurs in developing countries, while the fundraiser will benefit the club's emergency assistance fund for local families. The campaign also gives wearable shoes a second life instead of sending them to landfills.

Have a pair of shoes sitting unused in your closet? This is a chance to put it to good use.

Read the full story for collection details, the purpose behind the fundraiser and ways to help the club reach its goal.

Looking for a Sunday outing that celebrates North Carolina's makers and small businesses? Rooted in NC Fest is listed for November 8, from 1 to 5 p.m., at State Employees’ Credit Union, 37 Briarcliff Drive in Clayton.

The free, family-friendly event promises local vendors, food trucks, live entertainment, giveaways and activities for families. It's a chance to discover creative products, meet entrepreneurs and spend an afternoon supporting small businesses.

Organizers describe the festival as a celebration of North Carolina's people, flavors and creativity. Shoppers can browse booths, find potential holiday gifts and enjoy the community atmosphere.

One detail to check before heading out: the Johnston County Visitors Bureau lists November 8, while a separate organizer ticket page currently lists November 14. Clayton Buzz is using the November 8 listing, but recommends confirming the schedule with the organizer.

Read the full story for details, planning tips and event links.

Clayton children can enjoy a different kind of Halloween celebration at All Hallows Read on Thursday, October 29. The event takes place from 4 to 6 p.m. in the Council Chambers at The Clayton Center. Children in kindergarten through fifth grade are invited for games, treats, and tales that go bump in the night. A good spooky story can turn an ordinary afternoon into a memorable adventure. The celebration connects seasonal fun with reading and imagination. The Hocutt-Ellington Memorial Library also organized a Spooky Story Contest for students in grades three through eight. This year's writing theme was Small Town Secrets.

Downtown Selma will kick off the holiday season on Tuesday, December 1, 2026, with its annual Christmas celebration, parade and fireworks.

The festivities begin at 6 p.m. with tree lighting and entertainment at the Selma Finance Building on North Raiford Street.

The Christmas Parade begins at 7 p.m., traveling along West Richardson Street, North Raiford Street and East Anderson Street.

Fireworks are planned after the parade, giving families another reason to stay downtown for the evening.

The town is also inviting local businesses, churches, schools and community groups to apply to participate in the parade.

Visitors should arrive early, dress for the weather and check the town's official announcement for updates.

Read the full story for the route, schedule and parade application information.

Clayton is preparing for a holiday celebration on Saturday, December 12.

The announced time is 11 a.m., at Main Street in downtown Clayton.

Organized by the Clayton Rotary Club, the parade is expected to feature more than 100 colorful floats, marching bands and Santa Claus. The published viewing area runs along Main Street between Smith Street and Robertson Street.

The gathering is an opportunity for families and neighbors to celebrate together and enjoy a seasonal outing.

Read the full story for event information, practical planning tips and links to organizers' announcements.

Check for updates before traveling, as schedules and outdoor activities can change.

Benson is preparing for a holiday celebration on Friday, December 4.

The announced time is 5 to 9 p.m., at downtown Benson.

The Benson Area Chamber of Commerce presents a free evening featuring vendors, downtown shopping, a parade, visits with Santa and a Christmas show. The event listing gives 122 East Main Street as the downtown reference address.

The gathering is an opportunity for families and neighbors to celebrate together and enjoy a seasonal outing.

Read the full story for event information, practical planning tips and links to organizers' announcements.

Check for updates before traveling, as schedules and outdoor activities can change.

Smithfield is preparing for a holiday celebration on Thursday, December 10.

The announced time is 7 p.m. (reported; check town updates), at downtown Smithfield.

The Christmas parade is part of Smithfield's seasonal downtown calendar. A broader holiday schedule has already been featured in Clayton Buzz, so this story focuses on the parade itself. Exact route and participation instructions should be checked against the town's latest notices before publication.

The gathering is an opportunity for families and neighbors to celebrate together and enjoy a seasonal outing.

Read the full story for event information, practical planning tips and links to organizers' announcements.

Check for updates before traveling, as schedules and outdoor activities can change.

Four Oaks is preparing for a holiday celebration on Saturday, December 5.

The announced time is 11 a.m., at Main Street in Four Oaks.

The free annual Christmas parade brings families together in downtown Four Oaks. The Four Oaks Chamber of Commerce is listed as the event contact, with 202 South Main Street as the reference address. A separate tree lighting is scheduled for December 3 at 5:30 p.m. at Barbour's Grove Park.

The gathering is an opportunity for families and neighbors to celebrate together and enjoy a seasonal outing.

Read the full story for event information, practical planning tips and links to organizers' announcements.

Check for updates before traveling, as schedules and outdoor activities can change.

Clayton's Halloween weekend gets an early start on Friday, October 30, when Crescendo's Cause and Costumes Street Fest is scheduled for East Second Street.

The downtown event runs from 4 to 8 p.m., giving residents an opportunity to enjoy a festive Friday evening before Halloween.

Costumes are part of the event's theme, and the name suggests a community cause. Details about the beneficiary, activities, admission and street arrangements still need confirmation from the organizer.

Visitors can plan a downtown outing, check nearby business hours and watch for updates before heading out.

Read the full story for the confirmed date and location, practical planning tips and links to local information.

Princeton is preparing for a holiday celebration on Saturday, December 5.

The announced time is 1 p.m. (reported; confirm with organizers), at Princeton, North Carolina.

Princeton's Christmas parade offers an opportunity for residents to gather for a seasonal community tradition. The reported 1 p.m. start should be confirmed with town organizers before publication; route, entry instructions and the complete lineup have not been independently verified.

The gathering is an opportunity for families and neighbors to celebrate together and enjoy a seasonal outing.

Read the full story for event information, practical planning tips and links to organizers' announcements.

Check for updates before traveling, as schedules and outdoor activities can change.

Kenly is preparing for a holiday celebration on Thursday, December 3, and Saturday, December 5.

The announced time is parade at 7 p.m. Thursday; Saturday celebration 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., at downtown Kenly.

The Kenly Christmas Parade is listed for Thursday, December 3, at 7 p.m. Downtown Kenly's Christmas on Main celebration follows Saturday, December 5, with Santa's Workshop, children's activities, a live nativity, shopping, vendors, entertainment and seasonal displays. These are separate events on separate dates.

The gathering is an opportunity for families and neighbors to celebrate together and enjoy a seasonal outing.

Read the full story for event information, practical planning tips and links to organizers' announcements.

Check for updates before traveling, as schedules and outdoor activities can change.

Wilson’s Mills is preparing for a holiday celebration on Saturday, December 5.

The announced time is 3 to 7 p.m., at Phillip R. Wright Community Park, 988 Powhatan Road.

The Town of Wilson's Mills is hosting a free, family-friendly Tinsel Tree Lane celebration with illuminated trees, holiday activities, vendors, food, entertainment, Santa and the town tree lighting. The town says vendor and food-truck details will be announced later.

The gathering is an opportunity for families and neighbors to celebrate together and enjoy a seasonal outing.

Read the full story for event information, practical planning tips and links to organizers' announcements.

Check for updates before traveling, as schedules and outdoor activities can change.

Four Oaks is getting ready for a fall favorite: the Chamber of Commerce's all-you-can-eat Oyster Roast on Thursday, November 5, 2026.

The event takes place at the Four Oaks Fire Department, 825 Lassiter Road. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., with dinner served from 6 to 8 p.m.

Guests can look forward to an evening of oysters, conversation and a silent auction. The Chamber has confirmed that tickets are on sale now.

Previous editions have featured steamed oysters and other Southern favorites, though this year's complete menu and admission price should be confirmed with the organizer.

Read the full article for ticket information, event details and links to the Four Oaks Chamber of Commerce.

Motorcycles, whole-hog barbecue and live music are coming to Benson on Saturday, November 14, for the fourth annual Veterans Day of Honor Ride & Whole Hog Cook-Off.

The event runs from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Freedom Biker Church, 669 Tarheel Road, with all proceeds benefiting local veterans.

Activities include a motorcycle ride, a barbecue competition, tasting and judging, vendors, live entertainment and awards.

Visitors can donate $10 to sample the barbecue and vote for their favorite cooking team.

Cooking teams, vendors, sponsors and volunteers are welcome, but registration is required by November 5.

Read the full article for the day's schedule, prize amounts, registration information and links to the official event announcement.

Free live music comes to downtown Smithfield on Tuesday, October 27, when the BC Big Band performs on the Johnston County Courthouse lawn from 6 to 8 p.m. The outdoor concert is open to everyone. Read more for the details and the official event listing.

The holiday season arrives early in Selma when the Rudy Theatre opens its 2026 Christmas Jubilee on Tuesday, November 10.

The live variety show runs through December 29, with 37 performances scheduled.

Audiences can enjoy traditional favorites including “Silver Bells,” “White Christmas” and “Christmas in Dixie,” along with comedy and a spiritual tribute to the season.

The Rudy's 11-member cast brings the music and laughter to its intimate theatre at 300 North Raiford Street.

Adult tickets are listed at $32, with special pricing for children. Matinee and evening performances are available on different dates.

Read the full story for ticket information, the schedule and links to the theatre's official website.

Golfers and local businesses are invited to support a Clayton tradition when the Rotary Club of Clayton hosts its second annual Leigh Hudson Golf Tournament on Thursday, November 19, 2026, at The Neuse Country Club.

The event honors Leigh Hudson on the anniversary of the day Clayton dedicated a flagpole in his memory and declared Leigh Hudson Day.

Proceeds support Rotary service projects, including scholarships, community programs, and efforts to address food insecurity.

Four-player team registration is listed at $500, with additional sponsorship opportunities for businesses.

Not a golfer? The club also accepts tournament donations.

Read the full story for the history behind the event, ways to participate, and links to the official registration and donation pages.

The first Faster Than Pastor 5K and 1K Fun Run comes to Clayton on Halloween morning, Saturday, October 31. The event celebrates 25 years of church ministry and community service. The 5K starts at 9 a.m., and the untimed 1K Fun Run and Walk begins at 9:10 a.m. Both events take place along Clayton River Walk on the Neuse Greenway. The morning is designed for seasoned runners, casual walkers, and families who want to enjoy time outdoors. The 5K costs $25, while the 1K is free. The shorter event offers an accessible choice for children and families.

Smith’s Nursery in Benson is hosting a Halloween Pumpkin Carving Contest on Friday, October 30, from 5 to 7 p.m.

The family-friendly evening at Smith’s Farm Market, 443 Sanders Road, includes a pumpkin and carving kit for every $10 participant.

The fee also includes a small ice cream, cider, coffee, or hot chocolate.

Guests can enjoy spooky music, seasonal drinks, and a bonfire if weather permits.

Finished pumpkins will stay on display for customer voting on Halloween, October 31.

The winning pumpkin earns five tickets to the farm’s November 7 Moonlit Hayride and S’mores event.

Visitors can bring blankets, chairs, and snacks to make the evening comfortable.

Check the event details and registration information before heading out.

The Town of Clayton will honor military veterans at its annual Veterans Recognition Ceremony on Monday, November 2. The event takes place at The Clayton Center, 111 East Second Street. Community members are welcome to attend and express gratitude to those who have served in the United States Armed Forces. The program is expected to feature special remarks, patriotic music, and a tribute to local veterans. It is an opportunity to recognize the people and families behind military service. The gathering also offers neighbors a way to share their appreciation in person. For some families, service is a tradition extending across generations.

Four Oaks is preparing for a community Halloween celebration on Saturday, October 31, 2026.

Halloween on Main begins at 5:30 p.m. on Main Street in downtown Four Oaks.

The event is promoted as a family-friendly trunk-or-treat gathering, with activities advertised through 8 p.m.

Children can dress up and enjoy treats while families spend time with friends and neighbors.

With Halloween falling on a Saturday, the downtown event offers a convenient weekend outing for local households.

Visitors should allow extra time for parking, watch for pedestrians, and check organizer updates for any changes or special instructions.

Costumes, a flashlight, and a plan for keeping children together can help make the evening fun and comfortable.

It's a chance to celebrate Halloween in the heart of Four Oaks.

Halloween fun will support a local cause in Clayton on October 31.

The Johnston County Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority is planning its first Halloween Costume Party at the Gateway Conference & Event Center, 501 Yates Drive, from 7 to 11 p.m.

The fundraiser features music by DJ XL, food, a cash bar and costume prizes.

Proceeds will support the chapter's programs benefiting Johnston County youth and families.

For neighbors seeking a Halloween night out with a community purpose, the party offers a chance to dress up, enjoy entertainment and contribute to local service work.

Check the organizer's latest information for admission and ticket details before attending.

Thirteen Johnston County roads, covering about 30 miles, are slated for resurfacing under a North Carolina Department of Transportation contract awarded to S. T. Wooten of Wilson.

The combined Johnston and Nash counties contract is worth approximately $7 million. Work could begin this fall, with completion expected by spring 2028. Roads named in the announcement include Old Beulah, Ranch, Short Creech and Tilghman. Motorists should watch for future scheduling announcements and possible temporary traffic delays as crews begin work.

JoCo Restaurant Week is going countywide! From October 25 through November 7, Johnston County diners have two weeks to discover independently owned restaurants and enjoy special menu items, exclusive offers and dining experiences.

Smithfield resident Krystee Vernet started the event in 2025 with a dozen local restaurants. This year, she's working with Felicia Baxter to bring the celebration to communities across the county.

For Clayton residents, it's an opportunity to revisit favorite spots and explore restaurants in nearby towns. Participating businesses and deals can vary, so check the official JoCo Restaurant Week website for the latest list and specials before visiting.

Try somewhere new, bring a friend and support Johnston County's local food scene.

Smithfield families can celebrate Halloween early at Boo Bash on Friday, October 30, from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. at Smith-Collins Park near the Sarah Yard Community Center.

The free event welcomes families and is designed for children ages 3 through 14, with games, crafts, food, music and a costume contest.

It's a convenient after-school outing for parents and grandparents who want to enjoy the holiday together before Halloween weekend.

Children can show off their costumes, try activities and spend time with neighbors.

Check Smithfield Parks and Recreation's special events information for the latest details before heading out.

Discover the businesses right in your neighborhood at the first Flowers Plantation Business Expo on Thursday, October 22, from 3 to 6 p.m. at Concert Park in Clayton.

More than 40 local businesses are expected to participate in this free event, offering an opportunity to meet owners, explore services, and enjoy potential giveaways and special offers.

Find out what makes this expo different and why it's worth stopping by.

Nearly 69 acres near Clayton have been permanently protected along the Neuse River in eastern Wake County.

The property, next to the Sarah and Bailey Williamson Nature Preserve, includes wetlands and floodplain that help slow runoff and filter water upstream of Clayton.

That makes the conservation project especially relevant to residents concerned about the river’s health as development continues across the region.

The land is in Wake County, not Johnston County, but its environmental benefits extend beyond county boundaries.

Possible future plans include walking trails and additional Neuse River Greenway access, although the newly protected property is not open to visitors today.

For now, the milestone means more natural riverfront land can continue supporting wildlife, absorbing rainfall and protecting the landscape for years to come.

More than 456 acres of Johnston County farmland are slated for long-term protection following approximately $2.72 million in state grants for four conservation projects.

The projects cover land along Old Beulah Road, Crocker’s Nub Road and Starline Road, with a combined total of 456.47 acres. The Johnston Soil and Water Conservation District is coordinating the work through North Carolina’s farmland preservation program.

Conservation easements are voluntary agreements that restrict certain future development while allowing farms and forests to remain productive. The newly awarded funding is a significant step, although the easements have not all been confirmed as finalized.

For communities around Kenly and Selma, the effort reflects growing interest in protecting Johnston County’s rural character as the area develops. Read the full story to see where the properties are located, how easements work and what landowners can do to learn more.

Kenly’s Tobacco Farm Life Museum is celebrating autumn with a free Harvest Festival on Saturday, November 7, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The museum is located at 709 North Church Street in Kenly.

The festival will feature hands-on activities, historic demonstrations, fall-themed games, seasonal crafts and opportunities to explore the museum’s exhibit gallery. Visitors can learn about North Carolina’s agricultural heritage while enjoying an outing that brings local history to life.

Admission is free, and donations are appreciated. The event is supported by the Wilson County Tourism Development Authority and the Friends of the Tobacco Farm Life Museum.

Whether you grew up around farming or are discovering the region’s roots for the first time, the Harvest Festival offers a chance to explore a piece of Johnston County’s heritage. Read more for details about the activities and planning your visit.