This past weekend, Washington and the rest of Beaufort County experienced something amazing — a lineup of activities and events that provided much enjoyment, as well as an economic boost to the area that is unparalleled with regard to local events throughout the year.

But a much deeper paradigm exists in relation to all the things that were going on in the county over the weekend, and that is the word “community.” The community has come together, like it often does, to present opportunities for area families and out-of-town guests to enjoy the area and fellowship with fellow community members.

At Raised in a Barn Farm in Chocowinity, a wealth of activities was underway: a haunted trail through the woods, in which teenagers, young adults and even the young at heart participated, and some of these individuals played roles of scaring those who dared to brave the trail; a very intricate corn maze that required amateur explorers to use critical thinking skills, paired with a little bit of luck, to find their way through and located 12 different signs that featured coupons and discounts to area businesses; a kids zone that featured bails of hay to climb and play on, pumpkins to carve or paint and a playground; a shelter that included tables and chairs and a stage where local acts presented their musical talents; and several vendors, who shared their homemade baked goods, apple ciders and hot cocoa, among other things.

Another really cool feature was a barn at the farm where patrons were required to purchase tickets to the festivities and could use restrooms available in the barn. The facility was decked out in “country” décor and the bathroom area had been modeled to look like a front porch with a screen door. The bathrooms looked kind of like a horse stable, of sorts.

The Bath Historic Site held a Bath Towne After Dark historic walk, which featured many historical figures from the past that aided in shaping the Town of Bath.

Various people — kids and adults — played the roles of the historical figures and presented information about them, and many of the actors did a fantastic job in their theatrical reenactments.

The Washington Noon Rotary also held its annual Smoke on the Water festival, a feat that is not logistically easy. With beautiful weather and a great attendance, the festival had its best year yet, raising about $25,000 to benefit area nonprofits that provide services and outreach to members of the community in need.

This weekend, Beaufort County was in its finest form. The events and activities were formulated, headed and carried out by members of the community — people that work and live in the area just like everyone else. But this weekend the meaning of community was evident. People came together and had a good time and enjoyed what the area has to offer. And not only did it strengthen the local economy, but it brought members of the community closer together.