Edenton Social Light:the town's good news newspaper

CHRISTMAS ON JULY 25 FARMERS MARKET

CAROZZA CHEF GAVIN HOLTER CORNERS FRESH BASIL FOR FRESH NIGHTLY ENTREES

Holiday cheer will arrive a little early this summer as the Edenton Farmers Market hosts its annual Christmas in July celebration on Saturday, July 25, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The festive event will transform the market into a holiday-themed gathering featuring more than 35 local vendors, seasonal decorations, family activities and a special visit from Inner Banks Santa.

Santa will be available to greet children and families from 10 a.m. until noon, giving visitors the opportunity to snap a summertime Christmas photo while enjoying the market.

Shoppers can browse a wide selection of locally produced goods, handmade gifts, crafts and holiday merchandise while supporting area vendors. Organizers encourage attendees to arrive in the holiday spirit by wearing a Santa hat, antlers or a Christmas-themed shirt.

The market will also feature food from Edenton Hot Dog Co., offering hot dogs and other favorites throughout the event.

Because the celebration takes place during the summer heat, organizers remind visitors to practice sun safety by using sunscreen, staying hydrated and taking breaks in the shade as needed.

Designed as a fun, family-friendly event, Christmas in July offers an opportunity for residents and visitors alike to enjoy the community atmosphere of the Edenton Farmers Market while getting a jump on holiday shopping and celebrating local businesses.

The Edenton Farmers Market is located at 200 North Broad Street in downtown Edenton.

The event is free to attend and will take place rain or shine.

Event at a Glance

What: Christmas in July at the Edenton Farmers Market
When: Saturday, July 25, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Special Guest: Inner Banks Santa (10 a.m. – Noon)
Where: Edenton Farmers Market, 200 N. Broad St., Edenton
Features: More than 35 local vendors, holiday gifts, food from Edenton Hot Dog Co., family fun and summertime Christmas festivities.

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CHERYL ORR TO DEMONSTRATE FIG-LURING RECIPES

One of the festival's featured attractions will be a cooking demonstration by Edenton celebrity chef Cheryl Orr, who will showcase creative ways to prepare dishes using fresh, locally grown ingredients. Orr, well known for her commitment to regional cuisine and seasonal cooking, will also prepare plated dinners featuring her signature recipes alongside other dishes made from local produce. Her appearance is expected to be one of the culinary highlights of the weekend, giving visitors an opportunity to see firsthand how figs can be incorporated into both savory and sweet recipes.

4th Annual Fig Festival Returns to Spruill Conservation Farm

LINCOLN ADAMS INSPECTING A FIG

Figs, food, history and the outdoors will come together during the 4th Annual Fig Festival, a two-day celebration scheduled for Aug. 1-2 at Spruill Conservation Farm in Roper.

Lincoln Adams and Julia Townsend have once again been focused on creating the annual highly anticipated event which has grown exponentially over the past three years. Figs begin to tantalize tastebuds locally in late June to early July. Fig enthusiast and Spruill Conservation Farm advocate and volunteer Susan Inglis stood watch over four quarts of pre sold figs at the Edenton Farmers Market teasing passers’- by palates, leaving a taste for the upcoming August festival.

Hosted by The Peanut Factory at the nation's only Certified Naturally Grown (CNG) fig orchard, the festival celebrates one of eastern North Carolina's unique agricultural treasures. The orchard is home to more than 50 fig trees representing over 20 varieties, offering visitors an opportunity to experience the versatility of one of the South's oldest fruits.

Activities begin on Saturday, Aug. 1, with a day focused on exploring the farm and surrounding landscape. Visitors can participate in yoga at dawn, Tai Chi, a Fig Quest scavenger hunt and run/walk, a grounding workshop, and a fig-themed breakfast along the waterfront. Swimming and paddling opportunities on the Albemarle Sound will also be available throughout the day.

The celebration continues on Sunday, Aug. 2, with a full schedule centered on figs and local food traditions. Guests can sample fresh figs, enjoy live music, browse vendors featuring fig-inspired merchandise, and explore arts and crafts displayed throughout the orchard. Educational presentations highlighting local history will also be offered.

The festival will also feature a friendly competition recognizing some of the best fig creations, including cakes, preserves, barbecue sauce and other homemade specialties.

Organizers say the event is designed to celebrate agriculture, conservation and community while introducing more people to the unique flavors and history of the fig. Whether attending for the food, outdoor activities, educational programs or family-friendly atmosphere, visitors will find something to enjoy throughout the weekend.

Additional information, registration details and schedules for both days are available through The Peanut Factorywebsite at www.ThePeanutFactory.org

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REGULATOR SPONSORS RIPE FOR REVIVAL MOBILE MARKET

Boys & Girls Club Gets First Look at Mobile Market

A box of purple cherry tomatoes played neighbor to a crate of eggplant, a carton of papaya, some peppers, tomatoes, watermelon and other fresh fruit as residents enjoyed the first Edenton visit of the Ripe for Revival mobile market last Wednesday at the Edenton Boys and Girls Club.

Regulator Marine, supported the cause giving a ten dollar voucher to every Boys and Girls Club family member in Edenton last week. On August 5 Regulator Marine will offer the same good will at the Elizabeth City Boys and Girls Club.

It’s Regulator Marine’s way of promoting healthy eating and good nutrition habits within the community.

"We're grateful for partners like Ripe for Revival who share our commitment to ensuring every child has access to healthy and nutritious foods. The event yesterday afternoon was amazing. In addition to bringing fresh produce, in their Mobile Market, to our Club families, the Ripe for Revival team provided a meaningful nutrition education program for our Club members showing our young people that our community cares about their well-being,” said Executive Director Elizabeth Mitchell Boys and Girls of the Albemarle “We are most grateful to Regulator Marine for sponsoring the Mobile Market for our families."

The customized former bus has been transformed into a mobile market and is part of the statewide effort to combat food insecurity by bringing fresh, locally grown food directly into neighborhoods where access to healthy groceries can be limited.

Founded on the belief that communities flourish when families have access to nutritious food, Ripe for Revival works to bridge the gap between North Carolina farmers who have excess produce and residents who need affordable, healthy food.

"Our goal is reviving communities through food," said Community Engagement Coordinator Christine McKee.

The enthusiasm at the market was encouraging as a steady line of families enjoyed browsing along the aisle of the market.

“One of the greatest joys of serving our community is seeing children and families feel supported and encouraged. Walking alongside our Boys & Girls Club families as they selected fresh, healthy foods was a powerful reminder that kindness and partnership can have a lasting impact. I am deeply grateful Regulator Marine and Ripe Revival could play a part in making this event possible. As Chairman of the Boys & Girls Club of the Albemarle and Vice President of Human Resources at Regulator Marine, I believe our greatest investment is in our children, and it is inspiring to see organizations come together to strengthen the families who make our community so special,” said Krystal Watson

Ripe for Revival traces its roots to founder Will Kornegay, whose work with North Carolina farmers revealed a troubling reality: thousands of pounds of fresh fruits and vegetables were being left in fields simply because they did not meet traditional retail standards for appearance or marketability. Recognizing both the waste and the growing need for affordable, healthy food, Kornegay began developing new outlets for surplus produce. What started as an effort to rescue excess harvests evolved into a larger mission, leading to the creation of the nonprofit Ripe for Revival and its Mobile Market program in 2020.

Today, that mission travels directly into communities through specially renovated buses and box trailers transformed into full-service mobile markets. Designed to serve rural communities where access to fresh groceries is limited, the Mobile Markets operate on a pay-what-you-can model, making nutritious food available regardless of a family's financial circumstances. In addition to offering fresh produce, the program places a strong emphasis on healthy eating and nutrition education.

Stepping aboard a Ripe for Revival Mobile Market feels much like visiting a neighborhood farm stand. Shelves are stocked with colorful selections of seasonal fruits and vegetables. The markets are known for offering prices well below those found in many traditional grocery stores, with the added flexibility of allowing customers to contribute what they are able.

Under the leadership of Kornegay and the Ripe for Revival team, the Mobile Market network now serves residents across 20 eastern North Carolina counties, reaching thousands of families each year.

The organization recognizes addressing food insecurity requires collaboration, partnering with local governments, nonprofits, churches and community organizations to expand access to fresh, nutritious food where it is needed most.

The nonprofit operates a unique pay-what-you-canmodel, allowing individuals and families to purchase fresh produce regardless of their financial circumstances. The approach not only provides healthy food but also preserves dignity by giving shoppers the opportunity to contribute what they are able.

More Than a Mobile Market

While the brightly colored market bus is the organization's most visible program, Ripe for Revival's work extends well beyond weekly food stops.

The nonprofit supports local farmers and food producers by creating new markets for their products while reducing food waste. Produce that might otherwise go unused instead finds its way onto family dinner tables.

For Edenton residents, the arrival of the Mobile Market on July 15 represented another opportunity for neighbors to connect while gaining access to fresh, locally sourced foods.

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Harbor Town Cruises Launches Guided Walking Tours

Warren encourages visitors to explore downtown while boosting the local economy

Harbor Town Cruises is expanding the visitor experience beyond the waterfront with the introduction of guided walking tours of historic Edenton, an initiative designed to encourage tourists to spend more time exploring the community while supporting local businesses.

The new program, created and designed by Ted Warren, Managing Director of Harbor Town Cruises, reflects a simple philosophy: when visitors stay longer and experience more of Edenton, everyone benefits.

Beginning Thursday, July 31, the guided tours will introduce participants to Edenton's rich history, distinctive architecture and the people who have shaped one of North Carolina's most historic communities. Led by knowledgeable local guides, the walks are intended to complement Harbor Town Cruises' popular sightseeing excursions by giving guests another way to experience the town.

"This is about creating an experience that extends beyond the boat," Warren said. "When visitors spend more time in Edenton, they discover our shops, restaurants, museums and attractions. That helps strengthen our entire downtown business community."

Harbor Town Cruises is also inviting local businesses to become partners in the program by offering discounts, incentives or special promotions to tour participants. Businesses can choose the type of promotion that best fits their operation, including percentage discounts, fixed-dollar savings, free desserts, special giveaways or other offers redeemable by walking tour guests.

The company is also encouraging bus tour operators and organized travel groups to include Edenton's guided walking tours as part of their itineraries, creating additional opportunities to introduce new visitors to the community.

The initiative is another example of Harbor Town Cruises' commitment to promoting tourism while supporting small businesses throughout Edenton. By connecting visitors with local merchants and attractions, Warren hopes the walking tours will create lasting economic benefits while giving guests a deeper appreciation for the town's history and charm.

Businesses interested in participating in the program may contact Harbor Town Cruises to learn more about partnership opportunities.

"We've always believed tourism works best when the entire community benefits," Warren said. "If we can help visitors discover everything Edenton has to offer, they'll stay longer, spend more locally and leave with memories that bring them back again."

Weather Update-July 18- July 23

HISTORIC EDENTON, NORTH CAROLINA 7-DAY WEATHER OUTLOOK

Friday, July 17 — Thursday, July 23, 2026

🔥 Friday – July 17

☀️ Increasing clouds, dangerously hot and humid

High: ~95°F • Low: ~77°F

Heat index values may exceed 105°F during the afternoon. Limit strenuous outdoor activity and stay well hydrated. A Heat Advisory is in effect.

🌤️ Saturday – July 18

🌤️ Partly sunny, hot and humid

High: ~91°F • Low: ~76°F

A typical midsummer day with high humidity. Most locations remain dry, though an isolated late-day shower cannot be ruled out.

⛈️ Sunday – July 19

⛈️ Showers and thunderstorms likely

High: ~91°F • Low: ~75°F

Scattered thunderstorms become more widespread during the afternoon and evening. Heavy rain and frequent lightning will be possible.

🌦️ Monday – July 20

🌦️ Mostly cloudy with scattered showers and thunderstorms

High: ~88°F • Low: ~75°F

Unsettled weather lingers with periods of rain and thunderstorms. Some sunshine is expected between storms.

🌤️ Tuesday – July 21

🌤️ Partly sunny with an afternoon thunderstorm possible

High: ~90°F • Low: ~78°F

Warm and humid with a typical summertime chance of a late-day shower or thunderstorm.

⛈️ Wednesday – July 22

⛈️ Partly sunny with scattered thunderstorms

High: ~89°F • Low: ~74°F

Humidity remains elevated as another round of afternoon and evening thunderstorms develops.

🌦️ Thursday – July 23

🌦️ Partly sunny with scattered afternoon thunderstorms

High: ~85°F • Low: ~72°F

Slightly cooler temperatures arrive, but afternoon thunderstorms remain possible before gradually diminishing toward evening.

🌟 Weekly Outlook Summary 🌟

Classic midsummer weather settles over northeastern North Carolina this week. Friday opens with dangerous heat and oppressive humidity before temperatures ease slightly over the weekend. Beginning Sunday, a more unsettled pattern develops as abundant Gulf moisture fuels daily rounds of showers and thunderstorms.

While no day appears to be a complete washout, residents should anticipate periods of heavy rain, frequent lightning, and locally gusty winds, especially during the afternoon and evening hours. Temperatures remain seasonably warm through the week, generally in the upper 80s to lower 90s, with humidity keeping conditions muggy even after sunset.

🧭 Weekly Weather Headlines

🔥 Dangerous heat Friday

🌤️ Hot and humid Saturday

⛈️ Best chance of widespread storms Sunday

🌦️ Daily afternoon thunderstorms Monday through Thursday

💧 Heavy rainfall and lightning possible at times

🌡️ Typical midsummer warmth continues throughout the week

Looking through a lens of Hayes Farm History

Brennan Captures Edenton's 'Little Miracle'

The Chowan Arts Council hosted a packed gallery of friends, followers and supporters of Edenton photographer Tom Brennan Thursday evening as he unveiled a three year project documenting the in- place history of Hayes Farm before it was packed for storage.

Hayes Farm is currently undergoing a restoration project which in itself is historic. Brennan has been looking through the lens for the past three years documenting the past and present for the future.

Brennan began his career when the cost of a some cameras were less expensive than a tank of gas. He shot his first show in 1978 with a $1.50 plastic drug store camera. Back then he had no idea he would one day be recording history and the former lifestyle of Hayes Farm.

It was a move to an old home in Virginia opening Brennan’s lens to capture historic artistry while making the same.

“In the early 1990s, we lived in Sunbeam, Virginia, where we bought a historic home built in the early 1800s by Clement Rochelle, Sheriff of Southampton County during Nat Turner’s 1831 rebellion. Turner was held in the county jail Rochelle had built around 1824, then tried, convicted, and executed while Rochelle was sheriff,” adventurously explained Brennan. “Living in that house sparked my fascination with its history. I photographed everything—from etched windowpanes and doodles on the old kitchen door to the hand-hewn beams beneath the house and the outbuildings, including a one-room schoolhouse. I was captivated by the stories these old homes could tell. That interest led me across Southampton County, photographing historic churches, courthouses, homes, and other landmarks. The project became a calendar I produced for the Southampton County Chamber of Commerce, celebrating the county’s architectural heritage”

Brennan reached out to Elizabeth Vann Moore Foundation Executive Director Sambo Dixon and asked if it were possible to photograph Haye’s still-in-place history.

“I was really sick when putting this whole deal together to preserve Hayes. Then Tom called and said he wanted to take some photos, really before the restoration even began. I think his work captures the real spirit of Hayes. My favorite is the photograph of the library.  When we got there, it was filled with you 300 years of Edenton history. That's all packed up right now in storage, but to be brought back soon,” said Dixon.

Brennan explained photographing Hayes was an amazing experience he was honored to have the opportunity to have captured. He explained another room sits above the library, where the baby carriage, captured in a Brennan image, was found.

Hayes is managed by the Elizabeth Vann Moore Foundation and Sambo went on to summarize in short, the projects’ massive scope and what it will mean for the entire community.

“Ms. Moore put together this foundation with ten Edontonians that she wanted to help preserve Edenton’s world history. We had no idea that something this astounding would happen, that the Hayes property would become available, and that we would actually be able to preserve it. And we have preserved the content, and we think it's probably the most original fabric than almost any other house museum in the country.  It has every time of history,” explained Dixon. “One of my favorite quotes in 1850, a historian came to town and said that ‘the pedigree of Hayes gallops off in all directions’. It really has every type of history.  It's got horse history. It's got Revolutionary history with Samuel Johnson and James Iredell, along with Joseph Hewes’ and Samuel Johnson's copy of the Constitution, and the Declaration of the Independence, found in the library, is temporarily in Chapel Hill.”

Dixon said that while Brennan magnificently captured the past, Hayes’ future look will remain the same, but it’s prominence will offer a wider, community scope.

Hayes will become a place where locals can gather and use the property.

“One example is our goal with the horse stables, if you go out there now, they're jacked up,. However, we want to have a horse therapy program with the boys and girls club.  So we're trying to take a look at everything and ask how can this be used by local people? I mean, we want tourists, that's fine. But we are really trying to make a place that people here feel like it's a second home.  And I think that's the most important thing,” said Dixon.“It’s a miracle it all happened. These photographs capture it. This is kind of Edenton’s small little miracle.”

For Brennan, documenting the history of Hayes was an amazing three year experience that began in 2023. His most favorite spaces and artifacts discovered include the library, featuring a unique octagonal Gothic style design, the Martin Guitar, made during Martin’s New York years (1833–1839), and the original antique carriages used by the Johnston family.

Brennan has published a book of selections of his historic photographs available at the Chowan Arts Council.

The current show will be on display at the CAC until August 13, 2025.