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Our event is focused on creating a refreshing and relaxed atmosphere highlighting everything that makes Duplin County a great place to live and visit.  A Taste of Duplin and more is designed to promote and position Duplin County businesses and the Events Center as local tourism destinations.

Fun day of exhibits, vendors, food, kids activities, health information.

Food Drive

5K

Must register to be in 5K or be a vendor/exhibit

16 Private homes and plantations along with five public buildings which are each more than 100 years old open to tour. Many special features include celebration of the 250th birthday of the Historic Chowan County Courthouse, carriage rides, history reenactments, and displays highlighting table decorations for holidays throughout the year.

Also available: boat tours, luncheons, and on Friday evening Destination Downtown Edenton presents Boogie on Broad, a family friendly street dance with The Embers.

For more info and photos of past tours, go to the Edenton Pilgrimage website.

Tickets available January 1st. $30 in advance (includes sales tax) $35 day of event. Groups of ten or more $25 each

19th Annual Edenton Music and Water Festival

Friday evening will begin with a Guided Sunset Paddle 6:30 – 7:00 pm launching time from Queen Anne Park. There are kayaks and canoes available from the Town Dock by advance reservation along with bringing your own for participation. Entertainment from 7 – 10 pm for listening and dancing under the stars and a Beverage Garden all at the foot of South Broad along the water.

Saturday, this festival promises to delight with Coast Guard participation, entertainment beyond compare both on the waterfront stage and along Broad with roving musicians as well as many more activities for children off and on the water.

Free Boat Rides, Eco-Paddles with the Eastern 4-H Center, Food and Beverage Vendors/Arts and Crafts Vendors/Educational Vendors- something for everyone

Kick off the joyous holiday season with a wonderful annual event in Historic Downtown Edenton to include Tree Lighting and Flotilla – 5:30 pm. This event is sponsored by Destination Downtown Edenton.

Enjoy Christmas Celebrations with natural decorations in beautiful private homes. Many weekend activities accompany the tour making the weekend visit a holiday wonder.

This tour is sponsored by the Edenton Historical Commission with tour headquarters at the Penelope Barker House Welcome Center.

Tickets can be purchased by going to the Edenton Historical Commission Web Site linked below.

For more details see our special Candlelight Tour Page.

North Carolina, first in freedom, was the first colony to declare independence, and it all started right here, at Moores Creek National Battlefield. This is the site of the first Patriots’ victory over the Loyalists. See it unfold before your eyes.

The 2017 Wells Fargo Championship will be located in Wilmington, NC at Eagle Point Golf Club. Eagle Point, which opened in 2000, was designed by Tom Fazio and is currently among the Top 100 Golf Digest courses in America. Fazio has overseen alterations and re-design of Quail Hollow Club for several years. While it is obviously in a different region of the state and on the coast, several TOUR players have played Eagle Point and believe it will be well received by the TOUR players. The club is just north of downtown Wilmington and Wrightsville Beach.

The Blueberry Festival provides an opportunity for people to enjoy a full day of family entertainment while experiencing the southern hospitality of a small town. More than 30,000 people are estimated to attend the annual one day event. The Festival is a great source of local pride, with the entire community involved in promoting Burgaw to the world in its finest shade of blue. More than 100 volunteers are required to stage over 20 events ranging from entertainment to car show, a street fair, recipe contest, barbeque cook-off, a 5K run, special exhibits, and a variety of other events. At the North Carolina Blueberry Festival, we’re certain you’ll find something for the entire family. Come join us!

Tours will begin from the Historic Burgaw Train Depot. Tour guides will lead groups to various haunted sites as the Ghost of Pender’s Past tell scary stories. Tickets will go on sale in September. Call the Pender County Tourism office for details. 910-259-1278.

A full schedule of events on Saturday, May 6 will attract thousands of people to Downtown Smithfield, where the festival occupies several blocks. Craft and commercial vendors line the streets, food vendors offer a variety of fair foods and menu items featuring country ham and sweet potatoes, and local bands and dance groups perform on the festival’s three stages throughout the day. The festival features a barbecue cook-off, rubber duck race, 5k, and the always popular “What’s That Yam Thing?” contest. See you soon in Downtown Smithfield!

Johnston County and its towns along US 301 will host the sixth annual “Endless Yard Sale” which takes place annually the third weekend of June.  The communities will joing together with deals, antiques, collectibles, and more along a 100-mile stretch of highway.

Enjoy 5 days of exciting events on Main St. in Downtown Clayton.  Concerts, karaoke, a dance party, food trucks, and a classic car show, along with over 200 vendors.

The 4th Saturday of September has been home to Benson’s Mule Days Festival for over 60 years.  This four-day, family-fun festival is packed with mule competition events, rodeos, carnival rides, arts, and crafts, street dances and concerts.

Join the fun in Uptown Selma as the town celebrates its rail heritage every year the first Saturday in October.  The annual event will offer its regular fare, including live entertainment, vendors, food, rides, a parade and 5K run.  However this year Selma will be celebrating its 150th anniversary as a town and other special events will be happening during Railroad Days, like guided historical and architectural tours.

Cost: $50/per person – Includes dinner, beer/wine, dancing, and chance to win prizes from $25 to $2,000.

Our annual C.A.R.E. Party is held every February at the Historic Assembly Building in Topsail Beach. C.A.R.E. stands for “Chamber’s Annual Raffle Event” and is a fun-filled charitable night of dinner, dancing, and lots of prizes! Proceeds from the C.A.R.E. Party help assist the Chamber’s mission of supporting economic growth and civic well-being of our local community and membership. 

Join us for our 2017 Topsail Area Scholarship Golf Tournament
on Friday, April 21st at
​North Shore Country Club!

The Topsail Area Scholarship Golf Tournament supports educational advancement for our local youth through a scholarship awarded to each of our area high schools and our local community college. Chamber Member Businesses have the opportunity to contribute to this event through volunteering, sponsoring, and/or participating at the event

PIG IN THE PARK, presented by Goldsboro Milling Company and Sam’s Club in partnership with Goldsboro Wayne County Travel and Tourism and the Downtown Goldsboro Development Corporation, is a series of events celebrating Wayne County’s barbecue tradition. On Saturday, April 9, up to 24 teams will compete in a whole-hog cook off for the title of Wayne County’s Best Barbecue! But, PIG IN THE PARK is more than just a cook-off! Arts and crafts vendors, bouncy houses for the kids, live music, and a whole lot more will be featured during the festival at Old Waynesborough in Goldsboro, North Carolina.  

Schedule of Events
Friday, June 10th, 2016 5:00pm-9:00pm
Summer Festival T-Shirts Stewart Parkway 5pm-9pm
Festival Opens- Food, Arts & Crafts, Amusements- Stewart Parkway 5pm-9pm
Amusements (Rides, Games) 5pm-9pm
The Embers featuring Craig Woolard sponsored by PotashCorp-Aurora–
Festival Park Stage 7pm-9pm
Firework display 9pm

Saturday, June 11th, 2016 10:00am-9:00pm
Summer Festival T-Shirts Stewart Parkway 10am-9pm
Festival Opens- Food, Arts & Crafts, Amusements- Stewart Parkway 10am-9pm

$15 Amusement Wristbands- Allows you unlimited amusement rides between 11am and 3pm
Little Washington Sailing School Regatta
Princess & Super Hero Meet & Greet on the Chamber’s First South Bank Community Deck– 11am-12pm
Live Music from The Main Event sponsored by PotashCorp– Aurora-
Festival Park Stage 7:00-9:00pm

Featuring Amateur and Student films from North Carolina. Eligible students must be attending a NC high school, college or university.

Amateurs are non-student, non-professional full-time film makers living in NC.

The festival will be held at the Historic Turnage Theatre in downtown Washington, North Carolina.

Opening April 14th at 7 PM with the winning Best Overall film shown preceded by a meet & greet with some of the judges, film makers & cast.

Best of each film category shown on Saturday, April 15.

Tickets on sale March 1, 2017.

Entry application will be posted soon.

2017 Submission Categories:

– 3D

– Short (30 minutes or less)

– Animated

– Nature

– Historic

– Horror

– Documentary

Submissions of DVDs and fees accepted from January 2 through March 2, 2017 by Film Freeway only.

Winners will be notified by March 15, 2017 by email.

Questions? Email Crystal at crystal.holman@artsofthepamlico.org, call or visit AOP at www.artsofthepamlico.org.

Awards & Prizes

Acknowledgement for the Best of Category and cash prizes across submissions for

1. Best Overall ($350)
2. Best Short ($150)
3. Best Full Length ($150)

accompanied by an Arts of the Pamlico’s unique Glass Tulip Award.

Rules & Terms

Rules & Fees:

Applicants must be living or studying in North Carolina.

Applicants may enter as many entries in a single category as they like but may not enter the same entry in multiple categories.

Fees are per entry. $25 non-students, $15 college/university students & $10 high school students.

Paddle For the Border – May 6, 2017

In early spring hundreds of paddlers launch their vessels into the Dismal Swamp Canal’s dark, mirrored waters. This historic waterway serves as the backdrop for Paddle for the Border, an annual 7.5-mile paddling excursion to the North Carolina/Virginia border.

This 14th annual event celebrates the canal’s rich history, which dates to 1763 when George Washington’s land company first surveyed the swamp before commissioning the waterway’s construction. In the 19th century, the canal’s dense wetlands provided refuge for slaves traveling the Underground Railroad before continuing their journey north.

After enjoying a traditional pre-launch breakfast at the Dismal Swamp State Park, in South Mills, NC, paddlers embark on the leisurely three-hour journey to cross the state line. They finish the day out with a picnic lunch on grounds of the Dismal Swamp Canal Trail at the Great Dismal Swamp Boat Ramp at Ballahack Rd. in Chesapeake, VA.

Interested in participating? Like spring’s arrival, enthusiasm for Paddle for the Border begins building early. Registration opens January  3, 2017. The event is limited to the first 300 participants and fills up quickly due to its popularity.

Open Registration:  January 3, 2017-April 7, 2017

Late Registration:  April 8, 2017-Until Full; Online Only

The Crystal Coast Music Festival debuted in 2016 with a full day of music, food, activities and VIP perks. Details for the 2017 event will be announced in the coming months, including artists, shuttle service, VIP offers and other information.

he Tuna Run 200 is an amazing, overnight relay adventure in which you and your friends Run 200 Scenic Miles to finish at the beach and enjoy tuna and your beverage of choice after a job well done. The Tuna Run 200 begins just outside of Raleigh, North Carolina in Lake Benson Park in Garner and will finish at the beach in Atlantic Beach on the Crystal Coast of North Carolina.

The Tuna Run 70 is an amazing, one day relay adventure in which you and your friends Run 70 Scenic Miles to finish at the beach and enjoy tuna and your beverage of choice after a job well done. The Tuna Run 70 begins in the small town of Trenton, North Carolina and will join the Tuna Run 200 Relay for the last 70+ miles of that race running the length of one of Crystal Coast’s outer banks from Emerald Isle to Atlantic Beach before finishing at the beach.

Teams for the Tuna Run 200 are generally made up of 4 to 12 people who split 36 legs. The Tuna Run 70 teams are generally made up of 2 to 6 people who split 12 legs. Each team will provide support vans to drop off and pick up runners at designated exchange zones along the race route.

The Tuna Run 200 and Tuna Run 70 are great fun for everyone – you don’t have to be an ultra runner to enjoy it. For a 12 person team in the Tuna Run 200 and 6 person team in the Tuna Run 70 the distances and training are similar to that of a half marathon. However, if you are an ultra runner you will still be challenged.

If you have any questions about either race please e-mail us at info@tunarun200.com.

The Coastal Consumer Showcase, “Highlighting the Best Products & Services” in the Southport Oak Island area is held annually the first Thursday in March (3/2/2017) from 4pm-7pm at the St. James Community Center. Admission is free.  There are free samples, giveaways, Pick-A-Prize Auction and register for the $100 cash drawing.  The Showcase is organized by the Southport-Oak Island Area Chamber of Commerce for the public.   Sponsored by Fulford Heating & Air, Dosher Memorial Hospital, Carolina Window Coverings, The State Port Pilot, Southport Magazine and South Brunswick Magazine.

Oak Island Lighthouse Half Marathon Run and 5k, 10k and 1 Mile Run or Walk is a fun and enjoyable event for all fitness levels. The run courses showcase the best scenery on the North Carolina Coast — with salt marshes, the Atlantic Ocean, beautiful beaches, foot bridges and a lighthouse as a cheerleader. Pair the breathtaking scenery with the Parrot Head theme and you have an event worthy of taking a weekend trip with your friends.   The festivities start on Friday, April 21^st from 5pm-8:30pm at Packet Pickup & Onsite Registration at the Cape Fear Yacht Club. There will be music and fellowship with food and drink available for sale. It continues with the Phlock After Run Celebration on Saturday, April 22^nd at Middleton Park Extension. Participants will be given drink token(s) and be eligible to participate in the many contests – hula hoop, flip flop fling, Mr. Longitude, Miss Latitude and Costume Contest with cash prizes. In keeping with our Parrot Head theme, Half Marathon runners will receive a Margarita glass on a lanyard as your finisher award. The overall and age group awards are prints by renowned coastal artist Ricky Evans of The Ricky Evans Gallery in Southport. So, come dressed as an island girl, pirate, parrot or any Jimmy Buffett look you choose and join in the fun.     Half Marathon begins at 8am, 10k at 8:10am, 5k at 8:30am and 1 Mile at 8:35am on Saturday, April 22^nd at the Middleton Park Extension in Oak Island. An event of the Southport-Oak Island Area Chamber of Commerce and sponsored by Dosher Memorial Hospital. Check the run website for additional details and link to register www.lighthouse10k.com

Join us for a night of family fun as we flip a switch and light up Downtown Goldsboro for the holiday season! This FREE event featuring visits with Santa Claus, holiday characters, hot cocoa, kid’s crafts, trolley rides, holiday entertainment and ICE SKATING!

Free horse-drawn trolley rides will start at the corner of Mulberry and Center Street and will run from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. While waiting, guests will enjoy a holiday movie in the John Street Parking Lot.

Also, we’re excited to add ice skating to our line-up this year! From 6-8 in the John Street Parking Lot, enjoy ice skating for $5/skater.

Get tickets to see the NC Symphony’s annual Holiday Pops Concert at the Paramount Theatre after the event, or plan to shop and dine at downtown’s great shops and restaurants.

The N.C. 4th of July Festival is held annually in the City of Southport July 2nd – 4th and Beach Day on July 1^st in the Town of Oak Island July 1st.   The City of Southport first celebrated our nation’s independence in 1792 as the “Festival of Free Men”.  Over the years, the name of the festival changed until 1972, when the festival incorporated as the N.C. 4th of July Festival. Today, the festival celebrates our freedom as it remembers the sacrifices with some fun thrown into the mix. This year will be no exception.  Join the over 50,000 people who attend the N.C. 4th of July Festival each year. Festival events include: Naturalization Ceremony, Flag Raising Ceremony, Flag Retirement Ceremony, Veteran’s Recognition Ceremony, Over 100 Arts & Craft Booths, Food Vendors, Parade, Live Stage Entertainment, Fireworks, Franklin Square Art Gallery’s National Art Show, Shine & Show Classic Car Show, Voter Registration, Old Jail Tours, Used Book Sale, Lions Club Boat Raffle Drawing, Cape Fear Yacht Club’s Commodore Regatta, St. Philip Episcopal Chapel of the Cross Open, Children’s Entertainment, Children’s Games, Pancake Breakfast, and Firefighters Competition.   Prior to the Festival: Freedom Run, Military Band Concert and Beach Day Events – July 1st (sandcastle building, horseshoe, volleyball and shag contests plus evening concert and fireworks).

The U.S. Open King Mackerel Tournament began over thirty-five years ago, when a small group of community leaders met and decided that they needed an event to showcase the great fall fishing in the Southport-Oak Island area. Today, the U.S. Open King Mackerel Tournament attracts 400 boats annually and is one of the largest kingfish tournaments on the east coast. The tournament has a guaranteed prize structure and in 2016, paid out over $248,276 in cash with 464 boats fishing the tournament. In 2017, the U.S. Open will once again be part of the Southern Kingfish Association Mercury Tournament Trail. Entry Fee Charged. Music, food and beverages. Public Welcome. An event of the Southport-Oak Island Area Chamber of Commerce and sponsored by Southport Marina, Garmin and BEMC.

Christmas Gift Show comes to Southport-Oak Island Area highlighting local retailers and restaurateurs bringing convenience to your holiday shopping on Sunday, November 19^th from 1pm-5pm at St. James Community Building, locals and visitors alike will have the opportunity to shop-till-they-drop in one convenient location all for free admission. In addition to having all your favorite retailers right at your fingertips, attendees will have a chance to win a $300 Gift Local Card just for registering at the event. The Christmas Gift Show, an event of the Southport-Oak Island Area Chamber of Commerce. The Chamber has partnered with The Brunswick County Literacy Council (BCLC) to help bring awareness, funding, and resources to the BCLC organization. During the Christmas Gift Show, holiday wreathes and centerpieces will be available at a silent auction where a portion of the proceeds will benefit BCLC. A book drive will also be in full swing, where any book donation will automatically earn you one additional raffle ticket towards the $300 Gift Local Card. Please bring books aimed for children in the 0-12 age range or word searches for our senior citizens. Santa will be on hand to read to all the good little boys and girls while mom and dad peruse and pick out the perfect holiday gift. For those of you who purchase gift cards for your holiday giving, the Christmas Gift Show is a handy and easy way to purchase them in one location.

Christmas is perhaps the best time of year to visit the North Carolina coast. The average air temperature is 59.4 degrees and the sun is warm. In a celebration of this wonderful weather and the holidays, the Chamber organizes the Christmas by the Sea Parade, the first Saturday in December on Oak Island.  The Christmas by the Sea Parade steps off on Saturday, December 2, 2017 at 2pm on the 2.4-mile parade route from Oak Island Town Hall, traveling Oak Island Drive to McGlamery Street.  The parade showcases the businesses and organizations in our community.  The hometown feel of the parade makes it a favorite event of locals, second homeowners and visitors.  A float decorating contest will be held.  An event of the Southport-Oak Island Area Chamber of Commerce.

Gather up the family and join us for a free, fun-filled day of great beach music! Performances by Blackwater Rhythm & Blues Band, DJ Harvey Taylor and Aquarium Big Band. Event is FREE 12p-5p. Food and beer vendors will be on site.  Bring your beach chairs, relax and enjoy!  Beer, food and drinks may be purchased on-site.  No outside alcohol may be brought into the park.  NO COOLERS ALLOWED

JULY 4th FIREWORKS DISPLAY IN COROLLA – What better way to celebrate America’s independence than with free live music by the Tidewater Drive Band and a spectacular fireworks show on the northern Outer Banks! The 25th Annual Independence Day Celebration in Corolla offers an afternoon of fun family activities. The event features food vendors, a cornhole tournament, watermelon eating contest, and children’s games. Admission and parking are free; event starts at 12:00 p.m. with children’s games, activities, and food vendors, music starts at 5:00 pm with a fireworks display at dusk. Sponsored by Currituck Outer Banks Travel & Tourism

We are so excited to share this wonderful event!  Get ready for a fun-filled day for the entire family as we are partnering with the Currituck County NC Cooperative Extension Center and,  Kansas City Barbeque Society for a day of good food, family activities, and excitement!

Currituck Heritage Festival will be a fun-filled day with activities for adults and children…

Come out and experience the smells and excitement of a sanctioned KCBS Cook-Off.  Unfortunately, the competition BBQ is for judging only,  so tastes of the competition barbeque aren’t allowed.  However, there will be plenty of local fare and good food vendors selling food on site.

Join Sanctuary Vineyards and Vineyards on the Scuppernong as we present local wine tastings in the breathtaking and peaceful setting of Historic Corolla Park. Enjoy live music and family friendly activities every Wednesday from May 31st to September 13th .

A $15 General Admission ticket gets you a souvenir wine glass and samples of featured wines (Please bring a photo ID if you are interested in purchasing a ticket).  Bring your chair, blanket and the entire family to enjoy local live music as you sip wine and watch the beautiful sunset over the Currituck Sound! Local food will be available for purchase; pets on a leash are also welcome!”

Whalehead Wednesdays are free for non-drinking adults and children.

Enjoy this annual outdoor art show on the waterfront grounds of Historic Corolla Park at Whalehead in Historic Corolla. This festival features the unique talents of quality artists with a wide variety of media plus local food concessions, and art auction. Admission is free!  Event runs 10am-5pm June 21 and 10am – 6pm on June 22, 2016.

Come enjoy Ice Skating, Outdoor Movies, the Polar Express, a Candy Cane Hunt, Smores, Hay Rides, and of course Santa Claus. FREE Admission!!!

Join us Friday, September 29th for the 13th Annual NC Muscadine Festival featuring several wineries from North Carolina, vendors, and the Fantastic Shakers.  Ticket price includes samples and a souvenir wine glass.  For tickets call 910-275-0009.

The 13th Annual NC Muscadine Festival is Saturday, September 3oth.  Over 20 wineries offering multiple wines  from across North Carolina will be on hand with samples.  Ticket price includes samples and souvenir wine glass.  Gates open at 10am and The Entertainers will take the stage at 12pm, followed by the shag contest, and then Nantucket at 5pm.

There will be food and retail vendors as well.

Oak Island Lighthouse Half Marathon Run and 5k, 10k and 1 Mile Run or Walk is a fun and enjoyable event for all fitness levels. The run courses showcase the best scenery on the North Carolina Coast — with salt marshes, the Atlantic Ocean, beautiful beaches, foot bridges and a lighthouse as a cheerleader. Pair the breathtaking scenery on the courses with the Oak Island beaches and historic Southport you have an event worthy of taking a weekend trip with your friends.   The festivities start on Friday, April 20^th from 5pm-8:30pm at Packet Pickup & Onsite Registration at the Cape Fear Yacht Club. There will be music and fellowship with food and drink available for sale. It continues with After Run Celebration on Saturday, April 21^st at Middleton Park Extension. Participants will be given drink token(s) and be eligible to participate in the many contests – hula hoop, flip flop fling, Mr. Longitude, Miss Latitude with cash prizes. Half Marathon runners will receive a beautiful finisher award. The overall and age group awards are prints by renowned coastal artist Ricky Evans of The Ricky Evans Gallery in Southport.  Half Marathon begins at 7:30am, 10k at 8:00am, 5k at 8:15am and 1 Mile at 8:20am on Saturday, April 21^st at the Middleton Park Extension in Oak Island. An event of the Southport-Oak Island Area Chamber of Commerce and sponsored by Dosher Memorial Hospital. Check the run website for additional details and link to register www.lighthouse10k.com

http://www.nc4thofjuly.comOak Island Lighthouse Half Marathon Run and 5k, 10k and 1 Mile Run or Walk is a fun and enjoyable event for all fitness levels. The run courses showcase the best scenery on the North Carolina Coast — with salt marshes, the Atlantic Ocean, beautiful beaches, foot bridges and a lighthouse as a cheerleader. Pair the breathtaking scenery on the courses with the Oak Island beaches and historic Southport you have an event worthy of taking a weekend trip with your friends.   The festivities start on Friday, April 20^th from 5pm-8:30pm at Packet Pickup & Onsite Registration at the Cape Fear Yacht Club. There will be music and fellowship with food and drink available for sale. It continues with After Run Celebration on Saturday, April 21^st at Middleton Park Extension. Participants will be given drink token(s) and be eligible to participate in the many contests – hula hoop, flip flop fling, Mr. Longitude, Miss Latitude with cash prizes. Half Marathon runners will receive a beautiful finisher award. The overall and age group awards are prints by renowned coastal artist Ricky Evans of The Ricky Evans Gallery in Southport.  Half Marathon begins at 7:30am, 10k at 8:00am, 5k at 8:15am and 1 Mile at 8:20am on Saturday, April 21^st at the Middleton Park Extension in Oak Island. An event of the Southport-Oak Island Area Chamber of Commerce and sponsored by Dosher Memorial Hospital. Check the run website for additional details and link to register www.lighthouse10k.com

The N.C. 4th of July Festival is held annually in the City of Southport July 2nd – 4th and Beach Day on July 1^st in the Town of Oak Island July 1st.   The City of Southport first celebrated our nation’s independence in 1792 as the “Festival of Free Men”.  Over the years, the name of the festival changed until 1972, when the festival incorporated as the N.C. 4th of July Festival. Today, the festival celebrates our freedom as it remembers the sacrifices with some fun thrown into the mix. This year will be no exception.  Join the over 50,000 people who attend the N.C. 4th of July Festival each year. Festival events include: Naturalization Ceremony, Flag Raising Ceremony, Flag Retirement Ceremony, Veteran’s Recognition Ceremony, Over 100 Arts & Craft Booths, Food Vendors, Parade, Live Stage Entertainment, Fireworks, Franklin Square Art Gallery’s National Art Show, Shine & Show Classic Car Show, Voter Registration, Old Jail Tours, Used Book Sale, Lions Club Boat Raffle Drawing, Cape Fear Yacht Club’s Commodore Regatta, St. Philip Episcopal Chapel of the Cross Open, Children’s Entertainment, Children’s Games, Pancake Breakfast, and Firefighters Competition.   Prior to the Festival: Freedom Run, Military Band Concert and Beach Day Events – July 1st (sandcastle building, horseshoe, volleyball and shag contests plus evening concert and fireworks).

Contact:

North Carolina 4^th of July Festival

4433 Long Beach Road, SE

Southport, NC 28461

910 457-5578

patriot@nc4thofjuly.com

www.nc4thofjuly.com

The U.S. Open King Mackerel Tournament began over thirty-five years ago, when a small group of community leaders met and decided that they needed an event to showcase the great fall fishing in the Southport-Oak Island area. Today, the U.S. Open King Mackerel Tournament attracts close to 500 boats annually and is one of the largest kingfish tournaments on the east coast. The tournament has a guaranteed prize structure and in 2017, paid out over $271,000 in cash with 470 boats fishing the tournament. The U.S. Open is part of the Southern Kingfish Association Mercury Tournament Trail. Entry Fee Charged. Music, food and beverages. Public Welcome. An event of the Southport-Oak Island Area Chamber of Commerce and sponsored by Southport Marina and BEMC.

Contact:

U.S. Open King Mackerel Tournament

4433 Long Beach Road, SE

Southport, NC 28461

910 457-5787

fish@usopenkmt.com

www.usopenkmt.com

Christmas Gift Show comes to Southport-Oak Island Area highlighting local retailers and restaurateurs bringing convenience to your holiday shopping on Sunday, November 18th from 1pm-5pm at St. James Community Building, locals and visitors alike will have the opportunity to shop-till-they-drop in one convenient location all for free admission. In addition to having all your favorite retailers right at your fingertips, attendees will have a chance to win a $300 just for registering at the event.

The Christmas Gift Show, an event of the Southport-Oak Island Area Chamber of Commerce.  The Chamber has partnered with The Brunswick County Literacy Council (BCLC) to help bring awareness, funding, and resources to the BCLC organization. During the Christmas Gift Show, holiday wreathes and centerpieces will be available at a silent auction where a portion of the proceeds will benefit BCLC. A book drive will also be in full swing, where any book donation will automatically earn you one additional raffle ticket towards the $300 Gift Local Card. Please bring books aimed for children in the 0-12 age range or word searches for our senior citizens.

Santa & Mrs. Claus will be on hand as well as a BCLC volunteer to read to all the good little boys and girls while mom and dad peruse and pick out the perfect holiday gift. For those of you who purchase gift cards for your holiday giving, the Christmas Gift Show is a handy and easy way to purchase them in one location.

Contact:
Southport-Oak Island Area Chamber of Commerce

4433 Long Beach Road, SE

Southport, NC 28461

910 457-6964

events@southport-oakisland.com

www.southport-oakisland.com  

December 1, 2018 Christmas by the Sea Parade @ Oak Island Drive, Oak Island @ 2pm

Christmas is perhaps the best time of year to visit the North Carolina coast. The average air temperature is 59.4 degrees and the sun is warm. In a celebration of this wonderful weather and the holidays, the Chamber organizes the Christmas by the Sea Parade, the first Saturday in December on Oak Island.  The Christmas by the Sea Parade steps off on Saturday, December 1, 2018 at 2pm on the 2.4-mile parade route from Oak Island Town Hall, traveling Oak Island Drive to McGlamery Street.  The parade showcases the businesses and organizations in our community.  The hometown feel of the parade makes it a favorite event of locals, second homeowners and visitors.  A float decorating contest will be held.  An event of the Southport-Oak Island Area Chamber of Commerce.

Contact:
Southport-Oak Island Area Chamber of Commerce

4433 Long Beach Road, SE

Southport, NC 28461

910 457-6964

events@southport-oakisland.com

www.southport-oakisland.com  

Jan 27th, 2018    

6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

Cooler weather means oyster season in Eastern North Carolina!  Tickets include shrimp, oysters, slaw, hush puppies, beer, wine and entertainment.  

You eat the oysters…the birds eat the shells! Did you know that Sylvan Heights staff feed crushed oyster shells to nesting birds?  The shells provide critical calcium to many shore birds and waterfowl.  So come eat oysters and help the birds!

Tickets: $45 per person, $40 for Sylvan Heights Bird Park members.

Tickets will be available at www.shwpark.com

Nothing complements great Eastern NC BBQ better than craft beer from local breweries! Local cooks will compete to be BBQ cook-off champion – try them all and vote for your favorites while sampling beer from NC craft brewers.  Your ticket includes admission to Sylvan Heights Bird Park, plus games, live music, and more!

Tickets:

BBQ & Beer Ticket: $30 in advance, $35 at the door

BBQ only & Designated Driver ticket: $20 in advance, $25 at the door

Kids’ Ticket (ages 12 and under): $10

Sylvan Heights Bird Park members receive a 10% discount on tickets!

Tickets will be available at www.shwpark.com

Local organizations with an environmental focus will have educational booths and hands-on activities set up throughout the park.  Live animal encounters, crafts, and much more!  Sylvan Heights Bird Park’s Earth Day Celebration is part of the NC Science Festival.

Free with paid park admission or membership.

Sylvan Heights’ annual fundraiser for the birds! Enjoy a variety of delicious cuisines, live and silent auctions, and live music. Proceeds support the conservation and education programs at Sylvan Heights Bird Park.

Cost: Please see website for 2018 tickets.

Trick-or-treat with the birds in a safe, family-friendly environment! Costumed characters will be stationed throughout the park handing out candy to trick-or-treaters.  Enjoy Halloween-themed educational activity stations and live animal encounters!

Children must be accompanied by an adult.  There is no admission fee for adults accompanying children.

Cost: Please see website for 2018 event admission fee.

Start your year off on the right foot!  Join a park ranger for our annual First Day Hike.  Meet at the Visitor Center.  We will hike approximately 2 miles along Bennett’s Creek Trail.  Be sure to dress for the weather and wear sturdy shoes for the hike.  For more information call (252)357-1191.

Easels in the Gardens 2018

As we celebrate the 350th Anniversary of Chowan County, make plans to attend Easels in the Gardens with Art, Music, and Garden Party to benefit the 1758 Cupola House, a National Historic Landmark. Tours will be offered of fine gardens lush with beautiful spring blooms while noteworthy artists paint interpretations of these horticultural gems en plein air

350th Anniversary of the Albemarle

In celebration of North Carolina’s Founding, Chowan, one of the 4 original Precincts is joining all 16 counties in hosting the NC Charter at the Museum of the Albemarle in May. The two-day event will bring all the counties together on the Museum Lawn with exhibits as well as programs for students and adults inside and outside the Museum. Friday, May 11th will be for NC Students and Saturday, May 12th will be for the general public.

The two days are free and open to the public in Celebration!

9 am – 5 pm

350th Celebration Albemarle Sound Tour

In 1668, four precincts were formed out of the County of Albemarle, the first governmental unit of what would become North Carolina. These four precincts are now the counties of Currituck, Pasquotank, Perquimans and Chowan, were later subdivided further, giving rise to what we now think of as northeastern North Carolina, the Albemarle Region. In 2018, our Region will celebrate the 350th anniversary of this founding through a variety of commemorative activities including for the first time in history a Boat Excursion aboard the Belle of Washington.

Aboard the boat will be Bland Simpson, David Celceski and Tom Earnhardt sharing stories, legends and playing a little NC music for all to enjoy. The Tour will begin in Elizabeth City, the Harbor of Hospitality, with Harbor town stops along the way for touring in Hertford, Edenton, Plymouth, and Columbia.

To find out more about this amazing opportunity, contact LeRae Umfleet, NC Department of Cultural and Natural Resources Archives and History, 919-807-7289

Celebrating Chowan County’s 350th Anniversary

Friday evening will begin with a Guided Sunset Paddle 6:30 – 7:00 pm launching time from Queen Anne Park. There are kayaks and canoes available from the Town Dock by advance reservation along with bringing your own for participation. Refreshments served on the water following the paddle while watching the sunset.

Saturday, the Wooden Boat Exhibit with handmade boats made by many of our local artisans, entertainment beyond compare both on the waterfront stage and along Broad with roving musicians as well as many more activities for children off and on the water.

Free Boat Rides, Food and Beverage Vendors/Arts and Crafts Vendors/Educational Vendors- something for everyone

Early evening craft brew and wine tasting and music to close out the weekend activities.

6:30 – Friday and 10 am – 7 pm Saturday

Colonial Park – Edenton Bay

Free and Open to the Public

Celebrating Chowan County’s 350th Anniversary

Friday evening will begin with a Guided Sunset Paddle 6:30 – 7:00 pm launching time from Queen Anne Park. There are kayaks and canoes available from the Town Dock by advance reservation along with bringing your own for participation. Refreshments served on the water following the paddle while watching the sunset.

Saturday, the Wooden Boat Exhibit with handmade boats made by many of our local artisans, entertainment beyond compare both on the waterfront stage and along Broad with roving musicians as well as many more activities for children off and on the water.

Free Boat Rides, Food and Beverage Vendors/Arts and Crafts Vendors/Educational Vendors- something for everyone

Early evening craft brew and wine tasting and music to close out the weekend activities.

6:30 – Friday and 10 am – 7 pm Saturday

Colonial Park – Edenton Bay

Free and Open to the Public

37th Annual Christmas Candlelight Tour

Enjoy Christmas Celebrations with natural decorations in beautiful private homes. Many weekend activities accompany the tour making the weekend visit a holiday wonder.

This tour is sponsored by the Edenton Historical Commission with tour headquarters at the Penelope Barker House Welcome Center.

4 – 8 pm

Penelope Barker House

$30 in advance and $35 days of includes tax – Groups of 10 or more $25 per person

The goal of this event is to show community appreciation for our men and women in all branches of military service.  Last year the event drew a crowd of nearly 5,000 people. It is a lively community celebration that has included free hotdogs and snacks, ferry rides to Bear Island, inflatable jumping houses, slides, craft activities, a band, a magician and community based educational vendors.

This annual special event is in memory of the late U.S. Navy SEAL Chris Campbell, a former lifeguard and enthusiast of Hammocks Beach State Park. Chris was one of thirty American service men killed when their Chinook helicopter was shot down in Afghanistan in August 2011. He was an advocate to ocean conservation as well as sand dune preservation to ensure that our beaches are maintained for future generations to enjoy.  This event invites the community to come out to the park and volunteer their time doing a service project on Bear Island, a place Chris loved.

The Trunk or Treat Halloween Bash gathers community organizations and businesses to decorate their vehicle and hand out candy to local children in the Hammocks Beach State Park parking lot.  Kids dress up in their favorite costumes and enjoy a haunted house, hay rides, games, candy, and prizes!

Come and stroll the waterfront of historic downtown Swansboro and enjoy the craft vendors, kids art zone, dance and musical entertainment. Jewelry, glass, paintings, drawings, photography and so much more. Fun for the entire family!

Avast ye! Swansboro and Onslow County Parks and Recreation proudly present Pirate Fest coming to Downtown Swansboro, NC.

Watch as swashbucklers engage in sword fights, witness black powder weapons demonstrations, and listen to musicians sing sea shanties at this all day event that brings coastal North Carolina’s rich pirate history to life. This free, family friendly event also includes games and activities for the little buccaneers. Visitors can enjoy a pirate meet and greet, children and adult costume parade, pirate shows, storytelling, live music, and much more! Featured entertainment includes The Shadow Players sword combat, music of The Motley Tones and even a live pirate invasion on the water. New this year, join us at the Pirate Ball the evening before to get your jolly roger on!

FREE  Admission, Arts & Crafts, Street Vendors, Kids Crafts, Parade, Live Music, Mullet Fry.

Historic Downtown Swansboro becomes a magical winter wonderland as the Historic Downtown Merchants host their Annual Swansboro by Candlelight. Luminaries line the streets, shop windows display whimsical scenes, and ribbons & bows put the finishing touches on a journey back to the days of yesteryear.

Live entertainment in the Olde Towne Square.  The Swansboro Dance Studio will be performing scenes from their Nutcracker Ballet.  Wine Tasting at Bake Bottle & Brew and The Gray Dolphin. The merchants will be offering refreshments to all of their guests. Downtown Swansboro Shops will be open until 8pm every Saturday up until Christmas.

Nothing will get you more in the spirit of Christmas than Swansboro’s Annual Christmas Flotilla! A beautiful night of boats decorated as they parade down the ICW and Swansboro’s waterfront. See Santa as he comes in on his very own special sleigh boat and greets the children. Food, music and so much more!

Come out and enjoy some great eastern NC BBQ, Bluegrass from top artist, and local craft brew, from Mother Earth, Nicklepoint Brewing, and Double Barley, along with wines from Duplin Winery and Country Squire.

Join us on Saturday, September 29th, 2018 for some of the best wine North Carolina has to offer.  Our festival offers 20+ wineries to sample, plus beach music, vendors, great food, and even a shag contest.

July 4th – “Killer Dune Run”  Start the July 4th holiday off on a good note.  This event is hosted by the Outer Banks Running Club and proceeds go to support Friends of Jockey’s Ridge State Park.  This run is a two mile event up the dunes and through some of the maritime forest in the park.  T-shirt and medals are provided!  Check out the Outer Banks Running Club a few months out from the race.

July 4th – View both the Nags Head Pier fireworks and Manteo fireworks from on top of the dunes at Jockey’s Ridge.   The park stays open late to accommodate viewers for this special event.  Check Nags Head and Manteo community pages for times.

The NC Blueberry Festival, Burgaw, NC, www.NCBlueberryFestival.com 

The North Carolina Blueberry Festival is filled with a great source of local pride, with the entire community involved in promoting Burgaw to the world in its finest shade of blue. The Blueberry festival provides an opportunity for people to enjoy a full day of family entertainment while experiencing the southern hospitality of a small town. Enjoy over 20 events ranging from entertainment to a car show, a street fair, recipe contest, barbeque cook-off, a 5K run, special exhibits and more. 

MISSION STATEMENT
To promote sportfishing throughout Carteret County and the state of North Carolina.
To promote Conservation among Sportfishermen.
To raise money for Charities and Worthy Community Projects.
To preserve Maritime Culture and Heritage.
To promote Marine Education

Jim Quick and Coastline

Featuring Music by the band Bounce

Music by Lakota John & Kin, with Mark Andersen

7pm Friday and Saturday June 8 and 9   3pm Sunday June 10
7pm Friday and Saturday June 15 and 16  

James Lapine and Stephen Sondheim take everyone’s favorite storybook characters and bring them together for a timeless, yet relevant, piece… and a rare modern classic. The Tony Award-winning book and score are both enchanting and touching.

The story follows a Baker and his wife, who wish to have a child; Cinderella, who wishes to attend the King’s Festival; and Jack, who wishes his cow would give milk. When the Baker and his wife learn that they cannot have a child because of a Witch’s curse, the two set off on a journey to break the curse. Everyone’s wish is granted, but the consequences of their actions return to haunt them later with disastrous results.

One of Sondheim’s most popular works, Into the Woods is a musically sophisticated show with the opportunity to feature actors adept at dark comedy. Designers will especially enjoy highlighting the fantastical elements of this magical word.

Lumberton NC and the Lumberton Youth Baseball Association (LYBA) will host the 2018 Dixie Youth World Series beginning July 27th and running until August 9th. All of the games will be played at the Pennington Athletic Complex off of Hornet Road. Players ranging from 7-12 years old participate in this event. Dixie Youth Baseball encompasses eleven states in the southeast and each state will send representatives here to vie for the World Series Championship.   For 2 weeks, Lumberton and LYBA will host 60 teams, 720 players and their families for community based baseball.  $10/Day pass, $25/Series pass, children 12 years and under, free.   LYBA is a parent run, volunteer non-profit organization. It is operated collaboratively with the City of Lumberton and its recreation department.  Website is www.lybabaseball.com

Saturday, Oct. 27^th, 2018/Fun Run-9am/Event:  10am-2pm

The 44th annual Southeast Fire/Rescue College and Law Enforcement Expo will be held at Robeson Community College February 8-11, 2019. Seventy-nine classes are offered in areas such as Firefighter, Technical Rescuer, Driver/Operator, HazMat, and Aerial Certifications as well as EMS, National Fire Academy, National Incident Management System, Law Enforcement and First Responder training. The goal of the college is to further educate emergency responders to help the communities at large. Approximately 25 vendors will be available with goods ranging from t-shirts to vehicle lights.

No cost to observe. Cost to participants: $30 registration fee that includes Saturday lunch, t-shirts, and other giveaways.

Times: Thursday 1-10pm, Friday 8am – 10pm, Saturday 8am – 6pm, and Sunday 8am – 1pm.

Join us for the first New Year’s Eve Blueberry Drop 
1st Annual New Year’s Eve Blueberry Drop presented by the Town of Burgaw, the NC Blueberry Festival, and Pender County Tourism.  The official Blueberry Drop will be held at 7 p.m., which happens to be midnight Greenwich Mean time. Attend this family-friendly event and you still have time to celebrate 2019 without having to stay up until midnight! Entertainment provided by Eaglewing, an Eagles Tribute Band, starting at 5 p.m. The event is free. Join us in what we believe will be a fun annual event.  

The Coastal Consumer Showcase, “Highlighting the Best Products & Services” in the Southport Oak Island area is held annually the first Thursday in March (3/7/2019) from 4pm-7pm at the St. James Community Center. Admission is free.  There are free samples, giveaways, Pick-A-Prize Auction and register for the $100 cash drawing.  The Showcase is organized by the Southport-Oak Island Area Chamber of Commerce for the public.   Sponsored by Fulford Heating & Air, Dosher Memorial Hospital, The State Port Pilot, Southport Magazine and South Brunswick Magazine.

Oak Island Lighthouse Half Marathon Run and 5k, 10k and 1 Mile Run or Walk is a fun and enjoyable event for all fitness levels.  The run courses showcase the best scenery on the North Carolina Coast — with salt marshes, the Atlantic Ocean, beautiful beaches, foot bridges and a lighthouse as a cheerleader. A race worthy of taking a weekend trip with your friends.   The festivities start on Friday, April 12^th  from 5pm-8:30pm at Packet Pickup & Onsite Registration at the NC Baptist Assembly at Fort Caswell.   Come out and help create our beautiful finish line with Chalk Art at the Start on Saturday, April 13^th from 6am-7am then participate in a group stretch and warm up led by Ilene Evans, Yoga Teacher.  There will be finisher awards for the Half, 10k & 5k as well Pelican SnoBalls and Check Six Brewery Beer for the participants. The overall and age group awards are prints by renowned coastal artist Ricky Evans of The Ricky Evans Gallery in Southport.  So, come dressed as an island girl, pirate, parrot or any Jimmy Buffett look you choose and join in the fun.  Half Marathon begins at 7:30am, 10k at 8:00am, 5k at 8:15am and 1 Mile at 8:20am on Saturday, April 13^th  at the Middleton Park Extension in Oak Island.  An event of the Southport-Oak Island Area Chamber of Commerce and sponsored by Dosher Memorial Hospital.  Check the run website for additional details and link to register www.lighthouse10k.com

 (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Christopher Maldonado)

Chowan Arts Council Supporters Show

As the Chowan Arts Council kicks-off their 2019 Gallery Exhibit, join them for their Opening Reception and the Exhibit that will run through January.

5:30 pm for Reception and 11 am – 4 pm daily

Friday & Saturday, March 1,2 8,9, 2019

Celebrate Woman’s and Black History Months

The Historic Edenton State Historic Site will feature Harriet Jacobs’ Tours during the month of February and March in celebration of Woman’s and Black History Months. The tours will leave the Visitor Center at 108 N Broad Street at 3 pm each Friday and Saturday. The cost for the guided tour is $2.50.

Friday & Saturday, April 12-13, 2019

Historic Edenton Pilgrimage Tour of Homes and Countryside

Private homes and plantations along with five public buildings which are each more than 100 years old open to tour. Many special features include carriage rides, and history reenactments

Mark your calendar – stay tuned for more info

For more info and photos of past tours, go to the Edenton Pilgrimage website.

10am-4pm

Friday & Saturday, May 17-18, 2019

21st Annual Edenton Music and Water Festival

Friday evening will begin with a Guided Sunset Paddle 6:30 – 7:00 pm launching time from Queen Anne Park. There are kayaks and canoes available from the Town Dock by advance reservation (with small deposit returned upon arrival) along with bringing your own for participation. Refreshments served on the water following the paddle while watching the sunset.

Saturday, the Wooden Boat Exhibit with handmade boats made by many of our local artisans, entertainment beyond compare both on the waterfront stage and along Broad with roving musicians as well as many more activities for children off and on the water.

Free Boat Rides, Food and Beverage Vendors/Arts and Crafts Vendors/Educational Vendors- something for everyone

6:30 – Friday and 10 am – 5 pm Saturday

Colonial Park – Edenton Bay

12th Concert of Healing & Health

Lumberton High School Chorus, Bella Venti Orchestra Ensemble, Carol Deloach, and Mark Andersen will perform at First Baptist Church on Walnut Street at 4:00PM on January 6th.  Free to the public but donations are accepted.

The Robeson County Arts Council welcomes you to Arts on Elm.  Enjoy visiting with artists of many mediums;  Homemade art, Jewelry, Pottery, Artist demonstrations, Kids activities, Live music, Food and more!  Please note:  The event is on Elm between 10th and 15th Streets..  Artists will greet customers at 10:00AM until 3:00PM on April 27th, 2019.  This is a very enjoyable, low key adventure at your own leisure.

Rumba on the Lumber March 6-7, 2020

A weekend of fun for the entire family.  From Friday night’s Pasta Dinner and Dance at Adelio’s Restaurant to Saturday’s Street Festival full of food and craft vendors, 5K, 10K, Fun Run, KidsZone, North of the Border Chili Cook-Off, Touch-a-Truck, Concert on the Plaza and Bicycle Rodeo around the Downtown Plaza in Lumberton, NC, you can bring the entire family, spend the weekend, and have a blast!

Events on Saturday-Downtown Plaza – 3rd Street

9:00 AM Southeastern Health 5K and 10K

10:00AM-5:00PM Lumbee River EMC KidZone activities on the Lumberton Downtown Plaza

10:00AM – 5:00PM Business, Craft and Food Vendors Galore

11:00AM- Southeastern Health Family Fun Run/Walk

11:00AM-2:00PM-North of the Border Chili Cook-Off with music by The Pink Slips Band

2:00PM-5:00PM-Concert on the Plaza with music by The Kendrix Singletary Band

2:30PM – Bicycle Rodeo for Children

Over 50 dancers bring a traditional staging of the classic fairytale to life set to the timeless Tchaikovsky score, March 11, 2019 at 7:30PM.

The ballet follows the original Brothers Grimm story of a princess who is cursed by a witch at the celebration of her birth to fall into a 100-year sleep when she pricks her finger on a spinning needle. In the original Brothers Grimm tale the King and Queen survive the 100-year sleep to see their daughter’s wedding to the prince.

Come browse the featured art and artists for the month of January. Also, you can visit with friends and neighbors and enjoy beverages and finger foods.

Northeast North Carolina’s largest festival will return again on Friday, May 17, 2019 –  bigger and better than ever.  Bring the whole family and Come and Stay All THREE DAYS!

Food, arts and crafts, contests, live entertainment, and a Midway full of games and large amusement rides.

Make a weekend of it and come and join us for the Kick Off Party on Friday night on the corner of Main and Water Streets.  Take a spin on a ride on our Midway, get something great to eat, and dance the night away. Return on Saturday and Sunday so you can be enjoy the Street Fair lining our downtown streets, the National Potato Peeling Contest, Auto and Motorcycle Show, and other events planned for this year’s festival

Relive the drive-in movie experience–sans the car–with Elizabeth City’s beautiful waterfront at Mariners’ Wharf Park as the backdrop. 

Classic American films are shown on a large screen on eight consecutive Tuesdays at 8:30 PM starting in June. Bring a lawn chair and relax!

*If raining, we’ll reschedule individual nights!*

View the exhibit, try on hats and accessories of the 1920s style, and enjoy refreshments. Adults and children may participate in creative activities as well as a photo opportunity.

Like Dip Da-Dip Da-Dip Doo-Wop Da Doo-Bee Doo!

Love is in the air…or is it?! Join Arts of the Albermarle’s THE CENTER PLAYERS for their 2019 Winter Showcase all about the ups and downs of love! Some people fit like peanut butter and jelly, and some are more like oil and water. WE GO TOGETHER takes a look at them all! This cabaret-style evening of songs, dances, monologues, and more will have you walking down memory lane and dreaming about the future!

Performances are February 15^th & 16^th only at 7:00pm in the Maguire Theatre. Tickets are available by phone at 252-338-6455, online at the Arts of the Albemarle website, or in person at 516 E. Main St, downtown Elizabeth City. All tickets $15.

Gather up the family and join us for a, fun-filled day of great beach music!  Get ready for the funky headliner… Soul Intent, a classic horn and dance band with deep roots in Beach, R & B and Motown. With influences from The Phondells, The Sting Rays and The Fat Ammons Band to name a few, you’ll be moving and grooving. This family friendly event is FREE. Local food and beer vendors will be on site.  Bring your beach chairs, relax, dance and enjoy!  Bring the whole family as their will be bounce houses, games for the kids, and a corn-hole tournament!

Note:  No outside alcohol may be brought into the park.  NO COOLERS ALLOWED.

The Under the Oaks Art Festival is a two day outdoor art show with a variety of Fine and Wildlife artists on the sweeping waterfront grounds of Historic Corolla Park at Whalehead.  One hundred year old Live Oaks, open green lawns and casual breezes from the Currituck Sound make for a perfect location. This festival features the unique talents of over 50 quality artists with a wide variety of media plus local food concessions, and a silent art auction that benefits Whalehead. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Whalehead was the 1920s residence of Mr. and Mrs. Edward Collings Knight, Jr., a 21,000-square-foot “mansion by the sea”. On Wednesday, June 19^th, the event will feature a local wine and beer festival with live music from The Acoustic Legend, Chris Perkinson.

ITS BAGPIPERS!  They rock!!!  It’s the Red Hot Chilli Pipers, a 9-piece Scottish ensemble consisting of pipers, guitarists, keyboardist and drummers who have been rocking the world with musicianship of the highest order and a passion for pipes that will leave you breathless.  Hear explosive covers of your favorite songs such as Amazing Grace, Queen, Journey, the Beatles, and more.

Tickets are available on the GPAC website: www.uncp.edu/resources/gpac/professional-artist-series/red-hot-chilli-pipers and at the box office.

Performance date:  March 20, 2019  Time: 7:30 pm. Venue: Givens Performing Arts Center, Pembroke, NC 28372

JOIN US FOR PADDLE FOR THE BORDER 2019!

The 16th annual Paddle for the Border event will be held on Saturday, May 4th, 2019. This popular canoe/kayak trek allows participants to paddle 7.5 miles along the historic Dismal Swamp Canal. Boaters will launch at the Dismal Swamp State Park canal bridge in South Mills, NC and paddle at their own pace to Ballahack Road Boat Ramp in Chesapeake, VA.

Open registration runs from January 2nd to April 5th, 2019 or full capacity. The fee is $40 per person and includes a “grab-and-go” breakfast, picnic lunch at the end of the journey and your choice of a T-shirt or hat. Late registration (April 6th – until full) requires participants to register online only and add a $10 late fee. This event is limited to 375 paddlers. Spots fill up quick, so hurry and reserve your place!

Paddlers can register online at www.cityofchesapeake.net/paddle and by mail-in, walk-in or drop-off. A registration form and signed waiver must be submitted. To obtain registration packets call 252-771-8333.

The event is a joint effort by North Carolina’s Dismal Swamp State Park, Chesapeake Parks, Recreation and Tourism, Camden County TDA, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and the Dismal Swamp Canal Welcome Center.

The Midtown Men

Stars from the original Broadway cast of Jersey Boys

April 15, 2019, 7:30PM

They took Broadway by storm in one of the biggest hits of all-time and now they’re together again!  Bringing to life their favorite “Sixties Hits” from the Beatles, The Beach Boys, Motown, The Four Seasons and more.  This sensational production reunites FOUR stars from the original cast of Broadway’s Jersey Boys.

Tickets are available at Given’s Performing Arts Center (GPAC) on Campus at the University of North Carolina at Pembroke and on their website.  www.uncp.edu/resources/givens-performing-arts-center 

La Patronal

The Robeson County Arts Council presents La Patronal, from Lima, Peru, music rooted in the traditional “fiestas populares” or town fairs common in rural villages across Latin America, at the Carolina Civic Center Historic Theater, at 7:00PM, on March 30, 2019.  There will be a free community dance workshop at the theater from 1:00-2:00PM on Saturday afternoon.  Come enjoy!

Celebrate the Legacy 

Friday and Saturday, June 21-22, 2019; 8am – 4pm                            

Free with Battleship admission.

Celebrate the ships named NORTH CAROLINA!  They have been serving our country from the 1824 ship-of-the-line to the fast attack submarine currently stationed in Hawaii.  From the Mediterranean to the Atlantic to the Pacific, our state’s namesakes have traveled the globe.  Come enjoy a major display of Civil War, WWI and submarine arms, clothing, and equipment from enthusiastic costumed collectors and submarine veterans. 

Flag Day

Friday, June 14, 2019; 10am – 2pm

Free with Battleship admission.

Fly your own flag at the Battleship on Flag Day! American Legion Post 10 Honor Guard assists visitors in hoisting and folding their flags. Makes a great video keepsake and family heirloom. Provide your name and email and a certificate of authenticity will be mailed to you.  Visitors can bring a flag or purchase a 3 x 5 foot American-made nylon flag with embroidered stars from the Ship’s Store for $39.95 plus tax.  Sales from the store benefit the Battleship

Museum Ships Weekend

Friday and Saturday, June 1-2, 2019

9:00 am – 6:00 pm

Operating aboard Battleship NORTH CAROLINA, the Azalea Coast Amateur Radio Club will participate in the annual Museum Ships Weekend. The Battleship is NI4BK and HAM operators may contact the ship via Voice, Digital and Morse Code. Sponsored by the Battleship NEW JERSEY Amateur Radio Club, 63 museum ships worldwide will have HAM radio operators aboard ready to receive contacts from HAM operators. The Battleship is NI4BK and we look forward to hearing from you. If you contact the Battleship NORTH CAROLINA, QSL with a SASE to P.O. Box 4044, Wilmington, NC 28406. For HAM operators working at least 15 different ships, you are eligible for a certificate from the NEW JERSEY club.  http://www.nj2bb.org/museum/.  For information, contact Allan Pellnat, 910-799-1694 or KX2H@ATT.NET.

Saturday, June 22, 2019

Paddle, Pedal, and Plod Triathlon

This is the sixth annual Chowan-Edenton Optimist Club Edenton sprint triathlon, Paddle, Pedal and Plod. This race benefits the Devine Cancer Fund.   The race is unique in that individual and team participants will Kayak 3K, Pedal 20 K, and Run 5K.  The race will start at 8:30 am with the kayak leg from Queen Anne Park in downtown Edenton.  The course will be set that morning depending on weather and wave conditions.  The course will be within Edenton harbor the site of a Civil War naval battle.  The participants will return to the park and the bike portion will begin.  The course is overwhelmingly flat and will include in town and rural traffic patterns.  The course will take you through beautiful downtown historic Edenton to the spectacular farms and plantations of nearby Chowan County and will end back at Queen Anne Park.  The final running leg will be through Hayes Plantation, a spectacular antebellum plantation that is still a working farm.  You will loop back to the park for the finish.  The fastest time for this race was one hour and 10 minutes. 

This is the sixth annual Chowan-Edenton Optimist Club Edenton sprint triathlon, Paddle, Pedal and Plod.  

Event details and schedule

 Pre-registration the evening before at Waterman’s Grill, 427 S Broad St. 4pm to 7:00 pm.  Onsite registration from 6 am to 7:30 am 6-22-19  at Queen Anne Park.  A limited number of Kayaks can be rented in advance from the Parks and Recreation Department 252-482-8595.  Life jackets are required for the Kayak portion and helmets for the Ride.  The race will begin at 8:30 and awards to follow afterward. 

   8:30 am
   Link to Sign up  

Thursday, July 4, 2019

40th Annual July 4th Celebration

The 40th annual July 4th celebration with Edenton and County’s Fireworks is sure to make memories for everyone. A few highlights on tap are DJ Cowboy Adam Evans of Edenton, Arts and Crafts from local and regional vendors, Delicious Treats, Entertainment and more ending with a Fabulous 4th of July Fireworks display over the water around 9 pm.

Vendors, please contact Kirk Devine at 252-325-3234

4-9:30pm

Edenton Harbor

252-548-2912 – Vendor info: 252-325-3234

john.mcarthur10@gmail.com

The inaugural Youth Baseball World Series Division II World Series for Minors, Majors and Ozone is being held in Lumberton July 25-31.  Visit weblink for information and schedule.  http://lybabaseball.com/2019-dixie-youth-d2-agenda/

Summer Brooke and the Mountain Faith Band

Captivating audiences nationally for the past eighteen years, Summer Brooke & the Mountain Faith Band offer a musical experience that sets them apart from other musicians.  With their unique blend of Country, Pop, Bluegrass and Americana, they became a household name on Season 10 of America’s Got Talent, gaining the attention of millions and earning their spot as semifinalists.

Handmade Holiday Market

December 14, 2019 – 11:00am – 4:00PM

Osterneck Auditorium – 101 N. Chestnut Street, Lumberton NC 28358

http://www.robesoncountyartscouncil.org/calendar.html

Fill your holiday lists with homemade goods from regional artists and craftspeople. Enjoy shopping before or after attending “A Robeson County  Christmas Show” at the Carolina Civic Center Historical Theater and the Robeson County History Museum Open House.

UNCP Distinguished Speaker Series

Cynthia Marshall, hosted by Newy Scruggs

Marshall is the chief executive officer of the Dallas Mavericks and will be hosted by Scruggs, a seven-time Emmy winner, sports personality and UNCP alumnus.

Marshall earned national recognition, having been recognized as one of the top 50 most powerful women in corporate America.

Admission for the general public is $10. $5 for faculty/staff/children.  Free for UNCP students with proper ID.  Tickets are available at the box office of GPAC.

Bandstand

It’s 1945. As America’s soldiers come home to ticker-tape parades and overjoyed families, PFC Donny Novitski, singer and songwriter, struggles to rebuild the life he left behind.  Bandstand is “both a peppy celebration of can-do spirit and a more somber exploration of what American servicemen experienced when they marched home from World War II.  Tickets are available on line through the GPAC website or at the box office.  https://www.uncp.edu/resources/gpac/professional-artist-series/bandstand

February 7, 2020

The Drifters

From their inception in the early 1950’s, THE DRIFTERS are now known for rock & Roll hits like “Up on the Roof”, “Under the Boardwalk”, to name a couple. They are again touring the US.  Tickets may be purchased at the Carolina Civic Center Historic Theater website or at the box office.  Please visit the Carolina Civic Center Historic Theater website for box office hours and ticket information.

https://carolinaciviccenter.com/

River Voices Concert Series

The concert series features music and poetry composed/written by local Robeson County award winning performing artists.  The pieces will vary from Blue Grass to Classical, to Piedmont Blues and Religious.

Direct from Krasnoyarsk, Russia, the Orchestra embarks on an 8 week US tour. All concerts will be led by Vladimir Lande, Music Director and conductor of the Siberian State Symphony Orchestra, as well as Music Director and the conductor of Washing Soloists Chamber Orchestra and the Music Director of COSMIC Symphony Orchestra.  Tickets may be purchased as the website listed below or at the GPAC box office.

https://www.uncp.edu/resources/givens-performing-arts-center

High School students from across NC gather to showcase their hard work after an intense six weeks of designing and building an original robot in the FIRST Robotics Competition.  The event is free and open to the public.  Best dates and times for the public to attend is Saturday, March 7^th, 10:00am to 7:00pm and Sunday, March 8^th, 10:00am to 5:00pm.

Horse Got Talent and the Ultimate Trail Horse Challenge combined event will be held March 20-22, 2020!  Main event for the public is March 21, 6:00pm.  A listing of some of the events:  performances by drill teams, gymnastics on horseback, choreographed routines to music, choreographed routines without any type of halter, rope or tack,  a category deemed “Entertainment” that allows different or unusual routines with horses to be exhibited.  Then a Parade of Breeds is added to this lineup, a display of beauty and pageantry that each breed is known for; an opportunity to see some rare breeds such as a Curly Baskir or a Lippizan stallion and learn about them.

Not your typical horse show in that our competitors enter the ring solo as their own “act”!  The goal for the competition is to entertain the audience.  Admission is $10 for the show and $15 for the weekend.  Tickets may be purchased on line or at the gate.

In and Around Places:  get to know the idea of places featuring the Robeson County Arts Council member artists.  The exhibit is available at Givens Performing Arts Center (GPAC) on the campus of UNC Pembroke.  The gallery is open 9:00am to 4:00pm, Monday -Friday and one hour before regularly scheduled performances at GPAC.  Free admission to exhibit.

February 27, 2021 –  Book’Em – Book ‘Em North Carolina, a one-day event that brings together more than 75 authors, publishers, literary agents and publicists under one roof. The event is open to the public and is FREE for attendees, participating authors and presenters. 

Headliners at the event are:   Scott Mason, The Tarheel Traveler, his television series on WRAL-TV, Raleigh, NC, and his books celebrate North Carolina.  www.thetarheeltraveler.com.

Our own, Jill McCorkle, Lumberton’s author of short stories and novels. She has five books recognized as New York Times Notables and continues to conduct writing seminars in our local community.  www.jillmccorkle.com 

Book ‘Em NC  Location of event:  Campus of Robeson Community College www.robeson.edu

Rumba on the Lumber – March 6, 2021

 – A day of fun for the entire family.  From Saturday’s Street Festival full of food and craft vendors, to the 5K, 10K, Fun Run, KidsZone, Touch-a-Truck, and Concert on the Plaza around the Downtown Plaza in Lumberton, NC, you can bring the entire family, spend the weekend, and have a blast! Vender registration and 5K, 10K & Fun Run registration forms available at  www.rumbaonthelumber.com

FIRST Regional Robotics Competition- – March 6, 2021 – High-school students from across North Carolina gather to showcase their hard work after an intense six weeks of designing and building an original robot in the FIRST Robotics Competition.  This competition was created to inspire young people to pursue careers in science and technology and to help them acquire the skills to compete in a technologically-driven economy.  The public is invited to the competition at special times, so save the dates and watch for updates.

www.firstnorthcarolina.org/  Event is on campus at University of NC at Pembroke (UNCP)

A regional kite festival that brings some of the nation’s best stunt kite pilots right here to our backyard. Come out and join us for two days of kite flying fun for the whole family. Enjoy massive display kites flying high, including a 100-foot octopus, 80-foot panda, and a 50-foot fish, and participate in FREE stunt and power kite lessons given by pros. On Sunday, come watch world-class displays of artistry and skill with kite flying set to music, synchronized performances, and more!

This event is FREE and open to the public. 

On Nov. 5, Diamond Rio’s tour will stop in Surf City to kick off the inaugural Surf City Live concert.

Diamond Rio is an American country music band that debuted in 1991 with the single “Meet in the Middle,” which made them the first band ever to send a debut single to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs charts. The band charted 32 more singles between then and 2006, including four more that reached No. 1: “How Your Love Makes Me Feel” (1997), “One More Day” (2001), “Beautiful Mess” (2002), and “I Believe” (2003).

Opening for Diamond Rio is up-and-coming artist Paige King Johnson.

Tickets for the Nov. 5 concert are on sale now online. The venue, located at 517 Roland Ave., will open at 4:30 p.m. Food trucks, a beverage tent, and a merchandise tent will be available at the concert.