Lake Clean Up, Painting, And A Fun Weekend in Haywood County!

Hidden Gems of Haywood County NC | Blue Ghost Outpost Coffee Stop in Waynesville

Spring is bringing a packed calendar of events to Haywood County, with Waynesville, Maggie Valley, and Canton buzzing with activity.

Enjoy community, food, and fun at the HVO Spaghetti & Bingo Fundraiser in Waynesville the same night.

Gardeners and book lovers can swap seeds and stories March 21 at the Ten Acre Garden in Canton.

Families can tour Winchester Creek Farm for Easter Bunny photos March 28–29 and April 4–5, but spots fill quickly.

Highlights ahead include a vintage open house in Canton (May 23), Fat Burger Month countywide, R.A.D. Women’s self-defense in Waynesville, and animal adoptions in Clyde.

Look for ongoing classes at the Academy at HART, live music at breweries, and storytimes at local libraries.

Haywood County’s calendar is filled with local flavor and community connection for all ages.

This newsletter sponsored by

OMSEMBLE

OMSEMBLE creates immersive retreats and experiences designed to restore the nervous system, awaken inner wisdom, and cultivate meaningful community. Through music, movement, mindful nourishment, and nature-rooted practices, we guide people back to what feels natural. Our work invites you to slow down, listen deeply, and step into an ever-unfolding journey of personal and collective evolution.

"Art, Faith, and Friendship: Empowering Women in Waynesville!"

Women across Haywood County are invited to pause and reconnect at the Paint & Pray event at Life Church in Waynesville on Tuesday, March 24.

This evening blends creativity, faith, and friendship, offering a refreshing break from daily routines.

Participants will paint together, share stories, and enjoy moments of prayer woven gently into the evening—no artistic experience needed, just a willingness to show up.

The goal is simple: to leave feeling encouraged and less alone, whether you come with friends or on your own.

These local gatherings quietly strengthen Haywood’s tight-knit community, showing that faith can flourish around a table as much as in a sanctuary.

All supplies are provided; just bring a snack and an open heart.

For many, it could be exactly the peaceful night they’ve been seeking.

The Stories Behind the Holler — A New Podcast Is Coming

Haywood County is brimming with inspiring stories and remarkable people.

To celebrate these voices, the all-new Haywood Holler Podcast is launching to spotlight the residents shaping our community.

You’ll hear from leaders, business owners, educators, artists, volunteers, and everyday locals—all sharing honest, unscripted conversations.

In a time dominated by national headlines, this podcast brings local voices to the forefront, honoring those making a true difference—often quietly, always with heart.

Know someone with a powerful story, a generous spirit, or a unique impact?

Nominations are open for neighbors, mentors, creatives, or anyone you believe deserves to be recognized.

Each episode promises an authentic, encouraging, and personal listening experience rooted in Haywood County’s spirit.

The National Park Service is seeking volunteers to join the Great Smoky Mountains National Park Elk Rover team.

Elk Rovers will help manage traffic and educate visitors on safely viewing the park's elk population.

The elk in the park are a reintroduced Manitoban species, as the native Eastern Elk is extinct.

Volunteers will assist in sharing information about safe viewing, traffic management, guiding visitors, and answering questions.

Training will take place in May, and volunteers are needed through mid-November.

Visit nps.gov/grsm/getinvolved/volunteer.htm for more information or to sign up.

Rolf Kaufman: The Architect of Folkmoot's International Success.

Rolf Kaufman played a crucial role in the success of Folkmoot, an international festival in Western North Carolina.

He was a key figure in expanding the festival's reach by recruiting groups from around the world and helping to coordinate their visits.

Kaufman's passion for cultural exchange and his dedication to promoting understanding between different nations and cultures were instrumental in making Folkmoot a vibrant and diverse event that continues to thrive today.

Community Effort Beautifies Lake Junaluska with Volunteer Cleanup Day

Volunteers cleaned up debris at Lake Junaluska in an effort to beautify the area and maintain its natural beauty.

The cleanup day focused on roads, entrance areas, waterways, grounds, gardens, and public trails that are popular with residents and visitors.

The event was organized by Lake Junaluska staff and Haywood County officials to improve the overall appearance of the area and make it a more enjoyable place for all to visit.

This newsletter sponsored by

Game Forge

Your friendly neighborhood hub for all things fun, creative, and family-friendly! We are more than just a game store—we’re a vibrant community space where families, friends, and hobbyists come together to explore the world of board games, card games, and creative 3D printing.