Chapel Hill Magazine

09/11/2026

Meet our adoptable pet of the week: Bentley 🐾

Bentley is a very sweet boy! He has a lot of energy that makes him a great partner for long walks or hiking. He loves to play, but once settles, he gives lots of kisses and likes to sit in your lap.

Adopt this amazing young guy from Orange County Animal Services (NC) and take advantage of reduced adoption fees during September 2026.

🔗 Visit https://www.orangecountync.gov/287/Available-Pets for more information!

09/08/2026

We’ve all got something we recommend to visitors but haven’t yet done ourselves. Our photographer John Michael Simpson hadn't yet gotten around to visiting Sunrise Biscuit Kitchen despite living in the Triangle for almost six years.

"One weekday morning, I made my way to the tiny eatery on East Franklin Street where I ordered the Bad Grandpa Biscuit – chicken breast filet, bacon, egg and cheese – with a sweet tea," he says. "Now I completely understand what I’ve been missing out on, and I’ll definitely be going back."

What eateries, festivals or experiences have you been meaning to check off your bucket list?

08/28/2026

🎭 Raise the curtain – our Fall Arts issue just dropped, and it's taking center stage! ✨

Our September/October edition celebrates the creative minds shaping our community, from the stage to the studio to the sidelines. 🖌️🎨

Inside, you'll find:

🎭 A look back at PlayMakers Repertory Company’s 50 years and a preview of what’s ahead;

🖼️ ByAdrienne.Art’s 3D sculptural leaf paintings that give back;

🧵 Sarah Petty's journey from lifelong needlepoint lover to creative community builder through new University Place shop Elizabeth Brooke;

🍽️ The cafes, bars and restaurants turning every meal into a gallery visit;

🎟️ Your fall arts guide to can't-miss concerts, exhibits and events;

PLUS:

🏡 Inspiration for your next home or business remodel and the local designers and builders to make it happen;

🩵 Tar Heel nation's biggest cheerleaders, from the sidelines to the stands – as well as everything to catch on the field and court this fall;

➕ and so much more!

Grab your copy on stands now or head to the 🔗 below to dive in! 🍂📖

08/28/2026

Meet our adoptable pet of the week: Rico 🐾

Rico is a handsome boy looking for a second chance! Though he can be a bit nervous in new places at first, this sweet, loyal dog warms up quickly once he feels safe. Adventure buddies describe him as an energetic, affectionate snuggler who loves giving kisses and showing off his huge smile. He loves going on walks and also loves car rides (especially if they involve a pup cup!). Rico is a wonderful companion who just needs a patient adopter to give him a little time to settle in. He'll make his people smile every day!

Stop by Orange County Animal Services (NC) and fall in love today!

🔗 Visit https://www.orangecountync.gov/287/Available-Pets for more information

08/27/2026

Summer's almost gone, but there's still time to sneak in one more trip. ☀️

Check out and check into four reader-voted best hotels featuring standout amenities, from Hampton Inn & Suites Carrboro/Chapel Hill's rooftop pool to Graduate Hotels' museum-style replica of Michael Jordan's old dorm room, The Colonial Inn Hillsborough's personalized mystery excursions around town and The Carolina Inn's gift shop stocked with NC-made finds.

Whether you're planning the ultimate staycation or a weekend getaway from out of town, these four spots prove you don't have to go far for a trip worth taking. 🏖️

Read more at the 🔗 below.

Plan the perfect getaway with our guide to Chapel Hill, Carrboro and Hillsborough's reader-voted best hotels

08/21/2026

Meet our adoptable pet of the week: Arlo 🐾

Hi, I’m Arlo! I’m a gentle, sweet boy with the cutest squishy face and the most irresistible puppy-dog eyes. I’m a total lover – always wagging my tail and handing out kisses. I’m a silly little guy who’s sure to keep you smiling and would make the perfect loving, easygoing companion.

🔗 Learn more below and visit Paws4ever in Mebane to find your new best friend. 💞

https://paws4ever.org/adopt/meet-our-pets/

08/21/2026

Two teachers, one love story 📚💍

Carrboro High English teacher Samantha Shaw and Durham School of the Arts science teacher Ian Kirven said "I do" in their own Durham backyard March 21, 2026, surrounded by freshly bloomed tulips and mid-morning sun. True to their love of books and cozy creativity, the day was filled with handmade touches – table runners made of book pages, antique mug favors and thank-you cards crafted by the bride herself.

Loved ones showed up in every detail too: handmade bouquets from Samantha's aunt, Marie Shaw, veil embroidery by friend Josie Malone of Josie Malone’s So-so Sewing and honey pots gifted from the groom's parents' beehives.

Though the day was filled with endless activity, the couple continued to profess their love in stolen glances. Ian recounted that in those fleeting exchanges: “Sam’s smile and gentle laugh were the only things in the world.” 🐝🌷

Read more about Samantha and Ian's love story at the 🔗 below.

Teachers Samantha Shaw and Ian Kirven say "I do" in a backyard celebration filled with literary charm and heartfelt handmade touches

08/19/2026

Looking for compassionate, individualized support for a child with autism? 🩵 Behavioral Innovations offers center-based ABA therapy for children ages 18 months to 10 years, helping them build meaningful skills in a fun, compassionate environment.

Come see the new Chapel Hill location for yourself! 👋 Stop by the open house Aug. 20 from 5-6:30 p.m. to meet the team, learn more about the center’s services and tour the facility at 120 Banks Dr., Ste. 105.📍

Visit the center’s website to learn more. 🌐