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New Chipotle Locations in Wake County

Focus on Sustainability

Chipotle enthusiasts in Wake County can soon enjoy more locations as the fast-casual chain expands its presence in the area. These new spots promise not only the beloved menu of burritos, bowls, and tacos but also a fresh focus on sustainable practices and innovative design.

The upcoming Wake County Chipotle locations are part of the brand's nationwide push to create eco-friendly spaces. Key features of these locations may include:

• All-electric kitchens to reduce carbon emissions.

• Rooftop solar panels for renewable energy generation.

• Energy management systems that optimize heating, cooling, and refrigeration.

• Electric vehicle charging stations to support green transportation.

• Biodegradable materials in packaging and décor, including chairs made from cactus leather and recycled artwork.

These initiatives align with Chipotle's broader goal to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 50% by 2030, showing a commitment to sustainability beyond the plate.

Why Wake County?

With its growing population and eco-conscious residents, Wake County is a strategic choice for Chipotle's expansion. The company’s emphasis on using fresh, responsibly sourced ingredients resonates with the community's values.

Although specific locations and dates haven’t been announced, Chipotle plans to open over 300 new locations in 2024. Wake County is expected to play a significant role in this growth.

In addition to sustainable features, these restaurants will continue to serve fan favorites while exploring menu innovations, including more plant-based and vegetarian options to cater to evolving dietary preferences.

The Southern Tradition of High Tea

High tea is a meal tradition that originated in 19th-century Britain but has found a unique place in Southern culture. Despite its name, “high tea” often refers to a late afternoon gathering that combines tea with a light meal or snacks. Traditionally, it was more of a working-class evening meal served at a "high" table, complete with hearty dishes. Over time, this evolved into the refined experience we often associate with tea service, including finger sandwiches, scones, and sweet treats.

The Southern interpretation of high tea blends British roots with Southern hospitality. In the South, tea culture is a symbol of gracious living, often tied to celebrations, garden parties, and family gatherings. Sweet tea, a Southern staple, often makes an appearance alongside the fancier blends of Earl Grey or herbal infusions. High tea in the South emphasizes community, tradition, and indulgence.

Wake County offers several unique spots for a high tea experience. Each location has its own charm and specialties.

The Umstead Hotel and Spa (Cary)

• Why It’s Special: This luxury hotel offers an elegant afternoon tea experience in a serene setting. The menu includes a variety of premium teas, freshly baked scones, and dainty finger foods, served with impeccable Southern hospitality. Seasonal offerings and live harp music enhance the experience.

• Perfect For: Celebrations, date outings, or anyone seeking a luxurious tea experience.

Camellia Tea Room (Wake Forest)

• Why It’s Special: A cozy spot in Wake Forest, this tea room is known for its warm ambiance and curated tea selection. Guests can enjoy a more casual high tea with a touch of Southern charm, including homemade pastries and local ingredients.

• Perfect For: Intimate gatherings or a quiet afternoon escape.

Tin Roof Teas (Raleigh)

• Why It’s Special: While not a traditional tea room, Tin Roof Teas in Raleigh offers a wide array of high-quality teas sourced from around the world. Pair their exceptional brews with local bakeries’ treats for a personalized high tea experience.

• Perfect For: Tea connoisseurs and DIY high tea enthusiasts.

Fearrington House Inn (Pittsboro)

• Why It’s Special: Located a short drive from Wake County, the Fearrington House Inn offers a quintessential Southern afternoon tea. Set amidst beautiful gardens, it features artisan teas, gourmet finger foods, and elegant table settings.

• Perfect For: A serene day trip or a special occasion.

What Makes Each Location Unique

• The Umstead shines with luxury and fine dining.

• Camellia Tea Room captures the essence of small-town Southern charm.

• Tin Roof Teas offers a global twist with premium tea selections.

• Fearrington House Inn pairs tea with a picturesque countryside setting.

Whether you’re a tea enthusiast or a newcomer to the tradition, high tea in Wake County offers a delightful way to slow down and enjoy good company over a pot of tea.

Where to Celebrate New Year’s Eve in Wake County

Wake County offers a variety of fun New Year's Eve celebrations for 2024, catering to families, partygoers, and everyone in between:

First Night Raleigh: This family-friendly event includes a children's celebration starting at 2 PM, performances, an early countdown at 7 PM, live music, and the iconic Acorn Drop with fireworks at midnight. Tickets are $16 ($13 if purchased early)​

New Year’s Eve Gala at the NC Museum of Natural Sciences: Enjoy an upscale evening with live entertainment, an open bar, dinner, photo booths, and late-night snacks. Tickets are $175​

Night Circus Spectacular: Held in nearby Fayetteville, this free event features live music, circus performances, DJs, and a unique multi-colored star rise at midnight​

New Year’s Eve at The Plant in Pittsboro: A casual and free event with live music, fire pits, and an apple drop at midnight

^{While we strive to make sure that all of our events are current and accurate, please always check to make sure the event is still scheduled and that the information below is correct.}

Local Concerts​

A Celtic Christmas by A Taste of Ireland

• December 18, 2024

• Carolina Theatre, Durham

Toubab Krewe

• Date: Saturday, December 21

• Venue: The Pour House Music Hall

• Time: 8:00 PM

• Tickets on StubHub​

Musicals and Live Theater

Carolina Ballet's The Nutcracker

• Dates: December 12–24

• Venue: Raleigh Memorial Auditorium

• Description: A magical performance with grand illusions, live orchestra, and over 100 performers.

• Tickets: More Info​

Clara's Trip - A Cirque and Dance Nutcracker Story

• Dates: December 20–22

• Venue: Fletcher Opera Theatre

• Description: A cirque-inspired take on The Nutcracker, blending acrobatics and storytelling.

• Tickets: More Info​​

Christmas with C.S. Lewis

• Date: December 18

• Venue: Fletcher Opera Theatre

• Description: A stage adaptation exploring the works of C.S. Lewis.

• Tickets: More Info​

Christmas Lights

WRAL Nights of Lights at Dorothea Dix Park

• Dates: December 1st - 24th, 2024

• Details: A drive-through light experience with themed displays, a 250-foot animated tunnel, and local art installations. There are options for walking, running, or cycling on specific nights.

• Tickets: Starting at $20 (varies by date and time).

• More info and tickets​

Fieldstream Farm Christmas Light Show

• Dates: December 1st - 31st, 2024

• Details: A one-mile drive-through with over 2 million lights, including a stunning LED tunnel.

• Location: 8008 Old Stage Road, Raleigh, NC

• Tickets: Purchase online.

• More info and tickets​

Downtown Raleigh Illuminate Art Walk

• Dates: December 6, 2024 – January 6, 2025

• Details: Free light-based art installations along Fayetteville Street, best enjoyed after dark.

• More Information

Events

Raleigh

• The Dessertery

  Where: Duke Energy Center for the Performing Arts, Raleigh

  When: Various times, through December 23, 2024

  Details: A festive dessert café featuring holiday decor, unlimited sweets, hot cocoa, and live entertainment.

• North Carolina Chinese Lantern Festival
  Dates: December 1–31, 2024 (Evenings)
  Location: Koka Booth Amphitheatre
  Tickets: $11–26
  Enjoy an incredible display of illuminated, handcrafted lanterns at this annual event.
  More info and tickets

• Raleigh Beer Garden Trivia Nights
  Dates: Tuesdays, December 2024
  Location: Raleigh Beer Garden
  Cost: Free
  A fun, competitive trivia night paired with local brews.

Wake Forest

• Piper Lights Display
  Dates: December 1–31, 2024
  Location: Piper Lights, Wake Forest
  Cost: Free
  One of the most popular holiday light displays in the Triangle area.

Durham

• Craft Markets at Durham Farmers’ Market
  Dates: Saturdays in December 2024
  Location: Durham Central Park
  Cost: Free to browse
  Featuring handmade items, perfect for unique holiday gifts.

Cary

• Downtown Cary Ice Skating Rink
  Dates: Daily in December 2024
  Location: Downtown Cary Park
  Tickets: $6–15
  A festive outdoor skating experience for all ages.

Free Activities

Illuminate Art Walk

• Dates: December 6 – January 6, evenings

• Location: Downtown Raleigh

• Details: Self-guided tour of large-scale interactive light installations​

  Raleigh Family Adventure

  Downtown Cary’s Gifting Tree Project

  • Dates: December 7 – 26, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

  • Location: Downtown Cary Park

  • Details: Wander among beautifully decorated trees​

    Fun 4 Raleigh Kids

    .

  Apex Holiday Tour of Lights

• Dates: December 7 – 26, 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM

• Location: Various locations in Apex

• Details: Homes and businesses light up for a festive self-driving tour​

  Fun 4 Raleigh Kids

Community Displays and Activities

• Lights on the Meadow

  • Dates: December 7 – 29 (Wed–Sun)

  • Location: 9301 Hay Meadow Court, Raleigh

  • Details: A family-run Christmas light display​

    Fun 4 Raleigh Kids

    .

• Cary Gingerbread House Stroll

  • Dates: December 7 – 30

  • Location: Downtown Cary businesses

  • Details: Gingerbread houses displayed for public viewing​

    Fun 4 Raleigh Kids

    .

• Nelson’s Christmas Light Show

  • Dates: December 6 – January 1, 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM (Wed–Sun)

  • Location: 3909 Falmouth Dr., Raleigh

  • Details: Free synchronized light display​

    Fun 4 Raleigh Kids

    .

These events offer fun, festive, and family-friendly experiences across the Wake County area at no cost.

Fun and Affordable

• Free Santa Photos at Bass Pro Shops Santa's Wonderland
  Enjoy a free visit to Santa at Bass Pro Shops in Cary and Garner. This event is ongoing, and you can get a free photo with Santa—no purchase required.
  Dates/Times: All day
  Location: Bass Pro Shops, 801 Bass Pro Lane, Cary, and 201 Cabela Drive, Garner

• The RINK Outdoor Ice Skating at Red Hat Amphitheater
  Experience outdoor ice skating in downtown Raleigh. Tickets are affordable, and you can skate on a natural ice rink under the holiday lights.
  Dates/Times: Open all day

• Sculpture in the Garden at North Carolina Botanical Garden
  Explore the 36th Annual Sculpture in the Garden. Admission is free with a $5 suggested donation.
  *Dates/Times​ 5:00 PM
  Location: North Carolina Botanical Garden, Chapel Hill
  Details

• Historic Yates Mill County Park
  This park offers free admission and is a great place​

  TripBuzz

  wildlife watching, and history exploration.
  Dates/Times: All day
  Location: 4620 Lake Wheeler Road, Raleigh
  Details

• Holiday Kiln Opening at Mark Hewitt Pottery
  Visit Pottery in Pittsboro for a free look at handmade pottery and unique holiday shopping.
  Dates/Times: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
  Location: Mark Hewitt Pottery, Pittsboro
  Details

These events offer a variety of fun, free, or low-cost options for enjoying the weekend in the Triangle. Check the links for more details or to register.

Farmer’s Markets

State Farmers Market (Raleigh)

• Dates: Open daily throughout December

• Times: 5:00 AM – 6:00 PM

• Details: Enjoy local produce, fresh meats, handmade crafts, and more.

• More Info: Visit the State Farmers Market

Durham Farmers Market

• Dates: Saturdays, December 21

• Times: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

• Details: Features local farmers, artisans, and food trucks with a festive atmosphere for the holidays.

• More Info: Durham Farmers Market

Wake Forest Farmers Market

• Dates: Saturdays, December 21

• Times: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

• Details: A cozy market with local produce, seasonal crafts, and specialty holiday items.

• More Info: Wake Forest Farmers Market

Email us to add your event: [email protected] 

Collagen and Its Benefits

Collagen is a protein essential for maintaining healthy skin, hair, nails, joints, and bones. As we age, natural collagen production decreases, leading many to turn to supplements for support. Here’s a guide to the best types of collagen and their benefits.

Hydrolyzed Collagen (Collagen Peptides):

• Easily absorbed by the body.

• Commonly sourced from bovine (cows) or marine (fish).

• Popular for improving skin elasticity and hydration, reducing wrinkles, and strengthening hair and nails.

Marine Collagen:

• Derived from fish, it’s rich in Type I collagen, which is excellent for skin health.

• Benefits include improving skin texture, hydration, and promoting wound healing.

Collagen Type II:

• Typically found in chicken collagen and supports joint health.

• Great for those with arthritis or joint pain.

Multi-Collagen Blends:

• Contain a mix of Types I, II, III, and sometimes IV and V.

• Offer comprehensive benefits for skin, joints, and overall vitality.

Top-Rated Collagen Supplements

• Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides: Popular for skin and joint support, made from grass-fed, pasture-raised bovine sources.

• Ancient Nutrition Multi Collagen Protein: Features a blend of bovine, marine, chicken, and egg-sourced collagen for comprehensive benefits.

• Further Food Marine Collagen: Excellent for those seeking clean, marine-based collagen for glowing skin.

Key Benefits of Taking Collagen

• Skin Health: Reduces wrinkles, improves hydration, and promotes elasticity.

• Joint and Bone Support: Reduces joint pain and strengthens bones.

• Hair and Nail Growth: Enhances strength and prevents brittleness.

• Gut Health: Supports the gut lining, helping with digestion and reducing inflammation.

To maximize the benefits, aim for 5-10 grams of collagen peptides daily, and pair your intake with vitamin C to boost absorption.

Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement, especially if you have allergies or specific health conditions.

Learn How To Purchase At A 30% Savings Click Here For Information

Our readers have voted Oakwood Pizza Box at 610 N Person Street in Raleigh the best pizza in the Wake County area. Oakwood Pizza Box is known for its authentic New York-style pies with simple yet high-quality ingredients like homemade sauce and fresh mozzarella. Their pepperoni pizza is a standout for many locals. 🎗️

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Norse Brewing Company🍺

A Taste of Nordic Heritage in Wake Forest, NC

Norse Brewing Company, located in the heart of Wake Forest, NC, offers a unique dining and craft beer experience inspired by the spirit of Nordic culture. Since opening in 2019, it has become a community favorite, blending bold flavors, warm hospitality, and an inviting atmosphere.

Walking into Norse Brewing Company feels like stepping into a Nordic lodge, with rustic wooden beams, communal seating, and Viking-inspired decor. This cozy yet lively setting encourages camaraderie, reflecting the Nordic value of hygge (a sense of comfort and togetherness).

Norse Brewing takes pride in its handcrafted beers, brewed on-site to ensure freshness and quality. Their offerings include a range of styles, from crisp lagers to robust stouts, often infused with unique flavors to reflect Nordic themes. Signature brews like the Berserker Lager and Odin’s Beard Stout showcase creativity and boldness. Seasonal rotations and small-batch brews keep the menu dynamic for beer enthusiasts.

The kitchen at Norse Brewing complements its beer offerings with a menu inspired by both Nordic and Southern flavors. Guests can enjoy hearty dishes like beer-battered fish and chips, flavorful burgers, and traditional Nordic fare like smoked salmon platters. The restaurant also caters to vegetarians and offers kid-friendly options, making it ideal for families.

Beyond food and drink, Norse Brewing Company is deeply rooted in the Wake Forest community. The brewery hosts regular events, including live music nights, trivia, and special celebrations like Oktoberfest and Viking-themed gatherings. Its spacious outdoor patio provides a pet-friendly environment for families and friends to gather.

Norse Brewing is more than a brewery—it's a place for memorable celebrations. Whether you're hosting a private event, enjoying a casual meal, or simply meeting friends for a pint, the brewery's welcoming environment makes every occasion special.

Visit Norse Brewing Company

• Address: 203 Brooks St, Wake Forest, NC 27587

• Website: Norse Brewing Company

• Hours: Vary by day; typically open late afternoons to evenings with extended weekend hours.

With its blend of Nordic charm and Southern hospitality, Norse Brewing Company is a must-visit destination in Wake Forest. Whether you're a craft beer connoisseur or simply looking for a unique dining experience, this brewery offers something special for everyone.

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This week’s recipe is from Grandma’s kitchen.

Chocolate French Silk Pie

Ingredients:

For the crust:

• 1 1/2 cups vanilla wafer cookie crumbs (about 12 crackers)

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the filling:

• 8 oz. semisweet chocolate, chopped (or chocolate chips)

• 1/4 cup heavy cream

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1/4 tsp salt

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened

• 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar

• 3 large egg yolks, room temperature (see note on safety)

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the topping:

• 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream

• 1 tbsp powdered sugar

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• Chocolate shavings or curls (optional)

Instructions:

For the crust:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. In a medium bowl, combine the cookie crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated and the mixture holds together when pressed.

3. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish.

4. Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes, then remove from the oven and let it cool completely.

For the filling:

1. In a heatproof bowl, combine the chopped chocolate and heavy cream. Place the bowl over a pot of simmering water (double boiler) or microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring between, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract and salt. Let the chocolate mixture cool to room temperature.

2. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar on medium-high speed until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.

3. Add the cooled chocolate mixture to the butter mixture and continue beating until smooth.

4. Add the egg yolks one at a time, beating for about 1 minute after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed. Beat the mixture for another 3 minutes until fluffy and smooth.

5. Pour the filling into the cooled pie crust and spread it evenly. Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow the filling to set.

For the topping:

1. In a chilled bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form (about 3-4 minutes).

2. Spread the whipped cream over the chilled pie, smoothing it into an even layer.

3. Garnish with chocolate shavings or curls, if desired.

Serve:

Slice the pie and enjoy! It’s rich and creamy, with a smooth chocolate filling and a light whipped topping.

You don't stop laughing when you grow old
You grow old when you stop laughing!