Whether it’s online or outdoors, here are some events to kick off the first weekend of October
Compiled by Ellen Hardison
Thursday
UNC Women’s Soccer Match
Watch the UNC Women’s Soccer team take on Clemson at 4 p.m. on Dorrance Field, the new UNC Lacrosse & Soccer Stadium. No fans will be allowed in the stadium, but the game will be livestreamed on ESPN.
The Tasting Experience at The Cloth Mill
The Cloth Mill at Eno River hosts its fourth annual tasting experience from 6-8 p.m. While the event looks different this year, the wedding venue will still offer ways to indulge in food and drink and also tour the facility with representatives and wedding professionals. Although there is no fee required this year, owner Nicole Clayton is asking that guests bring non-perishable food items to donate to nonprofit TABLE. Sign up online for a time block that allots for safe social distancing.
Friday
First Fridays Online
Arts Everywhere, a UNC initiative celebrating campus arts, and the UNC Department of Music coordinate performances by students and ensembles every first Friday of the month. This Friday will feature UNC students Sanya Shah, a soprano, and Lauren Ragsdale, a mezzo soprano. Typically the event takes place at the rotunda of Hill Hall, however, all events are virtual this fall. Watch the pre-recorded performance live on Facebook at 1 p.m.
Friday and Sunday
Free Walking Tours Chapel Hill
Sally Sockwell Smith offers free walking tours every weekend in Chapel Hill, beginning at Morehead Planetarium & Science Center. As she takes tourists (and locals!) through Franklin Street and UNC’s campus, she talks about the history of the town, tips on where to go and hints about hidden gems. Groups are limited to eight members in cooperation with COVID-19 guidelines. Tours begin at 4:30 p.m.
Friday-Sunday
Triangle Parade of Homes
This annual tour explores the newest homes for sale and offers inspiration in the latest home décor and technology. Due to COVID-19, some homes may not be available for viewing.
Saturday
Witch’s Haunted Barn at Firefly Farm
Get into the Halloween spirit by visiting this haunted barn at Firefly Farm. The event is open to kids of all ages and occurs every Saturday throughout October from 1-5 p.m. The barn features spooky characters with music, animals and candy. There will be plenty of family fun activities after visiting the barn! Tickets must be purchased online.
Pumpkin Patch at Camp Chesnut Ridge
Camp Chestnut Ridge opens its pumpkin patch for pre-Halloween festivities. The patch is filled with animals, a campfire, a spooky forest and tons of pumpkins. The event takes place every Saturday of October, and tickets must be purchased in advance.
Saturday-Sunday
Carrboro Music Festival
The 23rd annual festival, hosted by the Town of Carrboro, goes virtual this year with pre-recorded performances available on YouTube starting at 2 p.m. on Saturday. The free weekend-long event highlights local performers, who are donating their talents to encourage a sense of community. Check the website for more details and updates.
