In Episode 2, Josh is back behind the wheel and getting out on the farm to meet the people behind Sonlight Farms, hear their story, and discover what makes this Johnston County destination so special. A place where faith, hard work, family, and a whole lot of fun come together. From the farm to the people who make it happen, Josh gets a firsthand look at what’s growing and why this destination is worth a stop when you’re Driving JoCo.
 



 

A Fall Weekend Around Kenly


You have seen the story behind Sonlight Farms. Now experience the farm for yourself and turn your visit into an overnight trip through Johnston County. This two-day itinerary combines fall fun at Sonlight Farms with Kenly’s agricultural heritage, local food, shopping, wine and seasonal events. Follow the complete route or choose the stops that fit your travel style.


Start with Something Local

Begin your Saturday in Downtown Kenly at 2nd Street Coffee & Café. Fuel up with coffee, a frappe, smoothie or light bite before setting out for the day. The menu includes pastries, subs, chicken salad and Bright Leaf hot dogs, and the café is featured on both the JoCo Coffee Trail and JoCo Hot Dog Trail.


Explore Kenly's Agricultural Heritage

Next, visit the Tobacco Farm Life Museum to discover how eastern North Carolina farm families lived, worked and built their communities. Explore the museum’s exhibit gallery, restored farmstead, historic structures, and collection of agricultural artifacts. The experience offers a look at the farming traditions that helped shape Johnston County before you see how a local family is creating new Agritourism traditions today. Admission is free, and donations are appreciated.


Experience the Episode at Sonlight Farms

Make your way to Sonlight Farms for an afternoon filled with fall traditions and plenty of room to play. Find your way through the corn maze, pick a pumpkin, take a hayride, race pedal carts, visit the animal barn, and explore the farm’s slides, games, and seasonal activities. Concessions are also available when you are ready for lunch or a snack. Sonlight Farms is open every Saturday in October from 10:00 am – 5:00 pm. Activities and special events may vary, so check the farm’s current schedule before your visit.


Dinner in Kenly

After a full afternoon at the farm, settle in for dinner at one of Kenly’s local restaurants. Choose home-style cooking and Southern favorites at Lowell Mill Restaurant, or gather around the table for pizza, pasta and more at Nik’s Pizza. Either option gives you a relaxed place to refuel after the corn maze and pumpkin patch.


Stay the Night

Do not rush home after dinner. Check into one of Johnston County’s nearby hotels and give yourself another day to explore. Whether you stay near Kenly or continue toward the Smithfield-Selma area, you will find convenient accommodations close to Interstate 95 and the next stops on your itinerary.


Start Sunday at Waffee Station

Begin your morning in Micro with handcrafted waffles, specialty coffee and plenty of creative combinations at Waffee Station. It is a playful breakfast stop for kids and grown-ups alike (deciding what to order may be the hardest part). Prefer a slower start? Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before checking out.


Add One More JoCo Experience

Before heading home, add one more JoCo experience to your weekend. Browse the shops and grab lunch at Eastfield Crossing, sip locally made muscadine wine at Hinnant Family Vineyards, or check our events calendar for a festival, market, live performance or seasonal event happening during your visit.

 


Meet Our Host, Josh!

For Josh, every drive is an excuse to meet interesting people and hear the stories that make Driving JoCo Host JoshJohnston County special. As the host of Driving JoCo, he’s always looking for the next great story, the next hidden gem, and maybe the next place to grab a really good hot dog. His favorite part of Driving JoCo isn’t just the driving—it’s the people. Every episode is a chance to laugh, learn something new, and show why Johnston County is a true destination.

He’ll happily make you his co-pilot if you know a shortcut, your grandmother’s favorite restaurant, or where to find great barbecue in Johnston County.

He’s always debating the question that really matters—what belongs on a hot dog? He’s the kind of guy who’ll stop for homemade ice cream, stay for the conversation, and leave with three new friends.


Meet the Band, 2Digh4!

2Digh4 (pronounced “Two Die Four”) is a North Carolina-based country/rock/pop 2Digh4 Band Members Posed Shot in barnband founded in 2014 by brothers Landon and Aubrey Digh of Fuquay-Varina. Joined by bassist Mike Kachman and drummer Melody Digh, the band is known for its original music, energetic performances, and storytelling rooted in its Carolina home. Over the years, 2Digh4 has performed at the Carolina Country Music Festival, the Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte Motor Speedway, the NC State Fair, and Nashville’s legendary Bluebird Cafe.

Their original music has also found success on independent music charts and with Nashville publishers. Released in October 2025, their single “Carolina Crazy” was used in Episode One; their new single "I Miss Home" was featured in Episode Two. Learn more about 2Digh4 and their music on the 2Digh4 website.