Haywood County comes alive this February with a lineup of festive activities for families, bargain hunters, and community leaders alike.

Kick off the weekend with the Haywood Waterways Annual Winter Plunge or browse treasures at the Flea Market at Haywood County Fairgrounds.

Families and homeschoolers can roll into community fun at Smoky Mountain Sk8way, from daytime skate sessions to themed events like Character Skate and the sweet Valentine’s Skate Party.

Kids will love picking up free Valentine’s craft kits from local libraries.

Nonprofits and professionals can network at ChamberConnects and Leadership Haywood sessions.

Enjoy family-friendly art at Haywood Handmade Gallery, deepen your botanical knowledge with an herbalism course in Canton, cozy room tea events, and don’t miss the For the Love of the Locals Makers Market featuring music, vendors, and local brews at Frog Level Brewing Company.

There’s something for everyone across Haywood this month!

WNC Billiards LLC is making waves in Haywood County with plans to open a speakeasy-style gathering spot in downtown Waynesville after over a decade of serving the region’s billiards needs.

Known for pool table sales and services throughout Western North Carolina, the company now aims to create a welcoming social space at 181 Wall Street.

The new venue will focus on a relaxed community atmosphere, offering games, friendly matches, beer and wine, and a range of non-alcoholic drinks—without the typical loud bar scene.

Locals can look forward to connecting and unwinding in a setting that blends Waynesville’s small-town charm with vintage speakeasy flair.

Though still labeled “Coming Soon,” this project signals an exciting chapter for both WNC Billiards and downtown Waynesville’s vibrant Main Street life.

Mountaineer Coffee Co. is a new Appalachian-inspired coffee brand focused on honest roasts and everyday drinkers.

Built for early mornings, long days, and front-porch evenings.

Haywood County’s waterways are central to local life, providing stunning scenery and crucial resources.

Ongoing community efforts reflect a deep commitment to protecting these natural assets.

The Plunge 2026, held on February 7 at the Champion Credit Union Aquatic Center in Canton, is the largest local fundraiser.

Now in its 27th year, this event aims to raise $40,000 for programs like Kids in the Creek, which promote water quality education and hands-on activities.

Following Hurricane Helene’s destruction, the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality provided $2 million to the Haywood Waterways Association for debris removal and restoration in the Pigeon River Watershed.

Another $1 million will help transform storm debris into biochar, boosting soil health for area farms.

It looks like some big changes are coming to the Smokies soon.

According to a recent article from Smoky Mountain News, the reconstruction of a section of I-40 could have a lasting impact on wildlife and safety along the Pigeon River for years to come. Basically, the plan is to revamp a stretch of the highway near the North Carolina and Tennessee border, which is a prime area for wildlife like elk, deer, and bears to cross.

The current design of the highway acts as a barrier, making it dangerous for animals to get from one side to the other. The reconstruction project aims to make the road safer for both wildlife and drivers by implementing measures like fencing and wildlife crossings.

These changes could potentially reduce the number of animal-vehicle collisions, which is not only dangerous for the animals but can also be a serious safety hazard for drivers. Overall, it seems like this project could have a positive impact on both wildlife and the local community.

It's important to consider the needs of our furry friends when planning infrastructure projects like this one. To read more about the I-40 rebuild and its potential effects on wildlife, be sure to check out the full article on Smoky Mountain News.

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