Issue 055 October 2015 the Destination Magazine™

the Issue 55 Regional Events & Destinations

What’s Going On At The Realm In October?

Lexington BBQ Tour Explore The Mystery Of The Brown Mountain Lights Cornucopia Of Autumn Fun The Destination For Valle Girls Feelin’ Fonzie?

Turkey Shoot Primal Style Bridges Of Madison County Part Deux

Gentle Giants The Carolina BalloonFest

Page 16

We Tell You Where To Go! theDestinationMag.com

2

Regional Events & Destinations

www.discoverburkecounty.com

theDestinationMag.com Visitor’s Center • 110704-706-2365 E. Meeting Street • Morganton, NC3

October 2015 Issue 55

the

W

e Te l l y o u w h e r e t o g o !

Whether you are a long time resident or new to the area, you’ll find regional events and destinations in the Destination Magazine™ that will have you saying “I never knew that was there.”

The Destination Magazine™ is not a historical document, we don’t write about spectacular events you’ve missed. If you desire new destinations to explore on your own, or ideas for things to do with friends and family you will find someplace new to experience each month in your destination magazine.

We know we are on to something!

Lisa & Andy Jay Publishers Published by: Photodude.net Marketing Manager: Lisa Jay Sales: Jin Williams Contributing Writers: Lisa Jay, Jim Stallard, Project 543, Visit NC, Craig Distl, Michelle Yelton Contributing Photographers: Bill Russ, PhotodudeART.com, Paul Newton, RomanticAsheville.com The list of events in this publication is compiled from various sources dates & times are tentative & subject to change. the Destination Magazine™ is published by Photodude.net LLC 369 Dovefield Drive Summerfield, NC 27358 (704) 706-2365 www.theDestinationMag. com ©2015 All rights reserved. Photodude.net LLC Publisher, Agents & Advertisers do not necessarily condone any activities or advertisement listed in this magazine. The Publisher and its officers, employees, agents, volunteers, and sponsors are not responsible for any loss or damage which might be associated with patronage of any party named in this publication, and is not responsible for any Act of God such as inclement weather, fire, flood, natural or man-made disaster, etc., that are out of the control of the Publisher, which affect the publishing of this magazine.

4

Page 16

Page 18

Page 23

Page 27

CONTENTS DayTrip Destinations

6

The Destination For Valle Girls

15

Gentle Giants

16

What’s Going On At The Realm In October?

18

Cornucopia Of Autumn Fun

19

Lexington BBQ Tour

21

Explore The Mystery Of The Brown Mountain Lights

22

Bridges Of Madison County Part Deux

23

Feelin’ Fonzie?

25

Turkey Shoot Primal Style

27

Regional Events & Destinations

Purchase Advance Tickets Hot Air Balloons are scheduled to soar twice daily (early morning & late afternoon). HOT AIR BALLOON FLIGHTS & ACTIVITIES ARE WEATHER DEPENDENT. Ballooning activities include static display, tethered rides and balloon flights. Due to limited entrance points, parking and guest field capacity, attendees are advised to Purchase Advance Tickets, Arrive Early and PARK by 1 PM on SATURDAY & SUNDAY. Carolina BalloonFest is expected to sell out!

Destinations

DayTrip Destinations Family Friday Nights Fridays 100 Ma i n St reet Ea St. Va lde se, NC 28690. Summer Concer t Series May–Sept. Free Outdoor Concerts 7pm-10pm. Local bluegrass, gospel, nostalgic, variety and country music performers are sure to get your toes tapping. Vintage cars and trucks fill up the block around Myra’s. www.townofvaldese.com

dates back to the times of the early settlers. The Sonker Festival is part of the Surry Sonker Trail, showcasing sonker all across Surr y County! www.yadkinvalleync.com

Autumn at Oz at Beech Mountain! Sat Oct. 3rd – Sun 4th Land of Oz, 2669 South Beech Mountain Parkway, Banner Elk, NC 28604. “Autumn at Oz” for 2015, now larger than ever!

7th Annual Scotland County Highland www.averycounty.com Games Sat Oct. 3rd 13040 X Way Road, Laurinburg, NC 28352. Held Renaissance Festival Saturdays at the historic John Blue Home and & Sundays Oct. 3rd – Nov. 22nd Historical Complex in Laurinburg, 10 a m – 5:3 0 p m 16 4 4 5 Po p l a r t h i s i s j u s t t h e k i n d o f e v e n t Te n t R o a d , H u n t e r s v i l l e , N C you would expect to find in the 28078. The Renaissance Festival county that has one of the largest is a 16th century European-style concentrations of Highland Scots a r t a nd enter t a i nment fe st i va l in North America. www.schgnc.org combining outdoor theater, circus entertainment, marketplace, jousting 36th Annual Sonker Festival Sat Oct. tourna ment, a nd a fea st f it for 3rd 4132 Haystack Road, Mount Airy, royalty. www.royalfaires.com NC 27030. Features sonkers, old-time and bluegrass music, quilters, flat Fall Colors of Grandfather Mountain foot dancing, Civil War exhibit, and S a t O c t . 3 r d 1p m - 2 p m 2 0 5 0 more. Bring a lawn chair and/or Blowing Rock Highway, Linville, NC blanket. Sonker is Surry County’s 28646. Join Grandfather Mountain’s unique style of a deep-dish pie that education staff each Saturday and Continued On Page 8

Historic Langtree Plantation Host Your Holiday Event With Us

554 Langtree Rd, Mooresville, NC 28117 (704) 897-7232 • LangtreePlantation.com

6

Regional Events & Destinations

SJ

usan ohnson & Associates

Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist Helping to make Lake Norman your home.

Susan Johnson, CRS, ABR 2007, 2011, 2012 & 2013 Five Star Real Estate Agent Award Winner

800.789.4232 Code 8003

www.homecarolinas.com

• Classic car maintenance • Frame off restorations • Body panel replacement and • Performance upgrades custom metal fabrication 117 Loma Hill Dr, Mooresville, NC

704-664-9743

theDestinationMag.com 704-706-2365

7

Destinations Continued From Page 6

Sunday, Oct. 3-18, for guided walks on the mountain’s trails to learn about fall foliage, including the reasons leaves change and different forces that affect the coloration.

H i ke s a re i n c lu d e d w i t h p a rk admission. www.grandfather.com International Sardine Festival Fri 9th Oct. 11am – 2pm Aberdeen Lake Park, 301 Lake Park Crossing, Aberdeen, NC 28315. What could be more fun than a barrel full of monkeys? How about little fish in a tin can? Not sure about a tin of sardines, a handful of crackers, an ice cold R.C. Cola and Moon Pie? www.aberdeen.municipalcms.com

Mt Air y, NC 27030. The festival showcases the area’s cultural and musical heritage, featuring old time, bluegrass and gospel music plus unique arts & crafts of more than 170 craftsmen. Don’t forget to enjoy “Food for the Soul” - ham biscuits, collard green sandwiches, barbecue, turkey legs, hamburgers & hot dogs, ground steak sandwiches, Amish doughnuts, and so more! www.autumnleavesfestival.com Shelton Vineyards Harvest Festival Fireside Kick-off Fri Oct. 9th 6.30pm - 8.30pm 286 Cabernet Ln, Dobson, NC 27017. Join Shelton Vineyards on Friday evening as we kickoff the 2015 Harvest Festival with a dinner buffet and fireside s’mores in the vineyard by Chef Paul. Enjoy the cool autumn evening as you dine, relax and sip Shelton Vineyards awardwinning wine by fireside! Wines will be sold by the glass and the bottle; Mulled Wine and “Spiked” C i d e r a v a i l a bl e fo r p u r c h a s e . www.sheltonvineyards.com

Oktoberfest Sat Oct. 10th – Sun 11th Sugar Mountain, NC. O ver 4 0 a r t i s a n’s a n d c r a f t sp e op l e open their stands at 10am each day. This year’s vendors include: chair canning, wooden toys, oil paintings, stain glass, handmade furniture, dolls, copper art, ceramics, honey, beeswax candles, bi rd hou s e s, a nd muc h more. www.skisugar.com/oktoberfest Festival of the Frescoes Sat Oct. 10th 120 Glendale School Rd, West Autumn Leaves Festival Fri Oct. Jefferson, NC 28694. A traditional 9t h - Su n 11t h 20 0 N Ma i n St. country fair on the grounds of the

Hough, PLP, H’kry Grove, LN Charter, SouthLake, No. Meck, Mooresville, So. Iredell, Lake Norman, Linganore - some schools our students come from. www.succeedwhereitcounts.com 704-819-6267

8

Regional Events & Destinations

Destinations Mission House across the street from the Church. Features homemade arts & crafts and wonderful baked goods. Classic fun for all as this is reminiscent of a traditional country fair. www.churchofthefrescoes.com

Mountain Glory Festival Sat Oct. 10th 50 S Ma in St. Ma rion, NC 28752. Celebrating the arrival of autumn with live entertainment, food and craft vendors, children’s games and activities, quilt show and exhibit and best dressed pet contest!

33rd Annual Molasses Festival Sat www.hometownmarion.com Oct. 10th 6160 Petra Mill Rd, Granite Falls, NC 28630. Attendees will Smoky Mountain Fly Fishing Festival experience southern Appalachian Sat Oct. 10th 20 Fry St. Bryson City, culture at its best with clogging and NC 28713. Celebrate the new Delayed traditional agricultural techniques of Harvest waters on the Tuckasegee the paSt. such as molasses boiling. River and Bryson City’s designation This festival will bring bluegrass of “Trout City” at this first annual e n te r t a i n m e n t , j a m s e s s i o n s , festival. Vendors will be set up to clogging, molasses making, apple display and demonstrate all types of butter making, hayrides, food, crafts, fly fishing equipment. Simms will games and more! www.facebook. be on hand to debut its 2016 line. com/simscountrybbq www.greatsmokies.com Continued On Page 10

Taproom Hours Thu & Fri: 4-10 Sat: 2-10 Sun: 12-8

The Bayne Brewing Company is a family-owned nano brewery based out of Cornelius, NC. Our flavors range from the traditional to the unique, and each beer is brewed with only the highest quality ingredients.

Visit our taproom!

19507 W Catawba Ave Cornelius NC | Baynebrew.com theDestinationMag.com 704-706-2365

9

Destinations

Continued From Page 9

6th Annual Asheville Oktoberfest S a t O c t . 10 t h 3 9 Wo o d f i n S t .

A sheville, NC 28801. The event features beer tastings from local breweries, w ith ma ny brewers featuring seasonal ales for Oktoberfest. Satisfy your craving for Oktoberfest cuisine with German staples like bratwurSt. pretzels and traditional sides from food vendors. www.ashevilledowntown.org Taste of Wrightsville Beach Sat Oct. 10th 130 Short St. Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480. The festival celebrates the island’s diverse and delicious fare on and around the beach with over 30 food, wine and beer tasting booths. Celebrity judges will rate the dishes with a “Best in Show” while the public will select the “People’s Choice” award. This is an evening not to miss and only 500 tickets will be sold so book your tickets today! www.wrightsvillebeachfoundation.org

demonst rations, cra ft vendors, music jam sessions, a liar’s bench a nd c hild ren’s c ra f t ac t i v it ie s. www.booneheritagefestival.com Annual Swansboro Mullet Festival Sat Oct. 10th - Sun 11th Swansboro, NC , T his is one of t he olde st festivals in North Carolina. Started in 1954 to celebrate the opening of the new bridge in town, local mullet fishermen held a fish fry.

The tradition has grown to rides, amusements, a weekend of music with live bands, crafters and a downhome parade to kick things off. www.swansborofestivals.com

LEAF - Lake Eden Arts Festival Thu Oct. 15th - Sun 18th 375 Lake Eden Rd, Black Mountain, NC 28711. A few aspects that make LEAF “one of the best fests in the country” is the family friendly atmosphere, the diverse sampling of arts and music, the setting, and the intimate size.

B o o n e H e r i t a g e Fe s t i v a l S a t www.theleaf.com/ Oct. 10th 591 Horn in the W Dr, Bo one, NC 286 07. Celebrat i n g Mush, Music & Mutts Festival Fri Appalachian herita ge w ith live Oct. 16th - Sat 17th Earl Scruggs music and stor ytelling from the Center, 103 S Lafayette St. Shelby, region’s best in these traditions, as NC 28150. Human hamster wheels, well as 18th century living history a bike riding dog, a liver mush

New Homeowner?

Renewal coming up?

We do the shopping for you to get the

BEST PRICE

103 North Church St. Mooresville, NC 28115 Phone: 704-664-9495

www.GetInsuranceSolutions.com 10

Regional Events & Destinations

Destinations eating contest‌.what else could you possibly ask for in a festival?

How about NC craft beer? The annual livermush festival has grown significantly over the past 29 years.

Now the official North Carolina Fall Liver Mush Festival, this event has grown in popularity and attendance. w w w. c l e v e l a n d c h a m b e r. o r g / mush-music-mutts-festival 2015 Carolina BalloonFest Fri Oct. 16th - Sun 18th 260 Hangar Dr, States v ille, NC 28677. Ca rolina BalloonFest is a fun-filled weekend of outstanding attractions and over 50 colorful hot air balloons! Bring cameras, lawn chairs and blankets to bask under the autumn skies as the backdrop to magnificent morning and afternoon balloon

flights. As the second oldest hot air balloon festival in the United States, Carolina BalloonFest attracts te n s of t hou s a nd s of v i si tor s . www.carolinaballoonfest.com Valle Country Fair Sat Oct. 17th Valle Crucis, NC 28679. The Valle Country Fair is an overgrown church bazaar set in the center of one of the most picturesque valleys in the North Carolina Mountains at the peak of the fall color season. The tents of 150 juried craft exhibitors.

Local mountain musicians perform throughout the day on the main stage while square dancers and cloggers entertain on the youth stage. Brunswick stew, barbecue, ba ked goods, homemade ja ms and jellies, fresh-pressed apple Continued On Page 12

Antique Car Restoration Complete Turnkey Hot Rods Custom Motorcycles Chassis Fabrication

Mooresville NC 704 363 0722

Custom Body Fabrication

107 Uppercrest Dr 28117 theDestinationMag.com 704-706-2365

11

Destinations

Continued From Page 11

cider, and hot-out-of-the kettle food a nd vendors. The festiva l apple butter - with 100 percent boasts three entertainment stages. of the proceeds going to charity. www.alexandercountyonline.com www.vallecountryfair.org 38th Annual Woolly Worm Festival 2 7 t h A n n u a l A p p l e H a r v e s t Sat Oct. 17th - Sun 18th Banner Elk, Festival Sat Oct. 17th 5 N Main NC 28604. The winning woolly on St. Waynesville, NC 28786. The Saturday has the esteemed honor of annual festival features handmade predicting the High Country weather a r t s a nd c ra f t s, lo c a l l y-grow n and wins a huge pot of $$$ If you apples and apple products for sale. are very lucky your Woolly Worm www.HaywoodAppleFest.com will share it’s $1000 cash prize with its owner. www.woollyworm.com Taylorsville Apple Festival Sat Oct. 17th Ma in Ave Dr, Taylors v ille, 35th Annual North Carolina Oyster NC 28681. The Taylorsville Apple Festival Sat Oct. 17th - Sun 18th 8 E Festival, which draws an about 2nd St. Ocean Isle Beach, NC 28469.

3 5 , 0 0 0 a t t e n d e e s a n d h o s t s The 35th Annual NC Oyster Festival more tha n 250 exhibit booths. will feature local cuisine, arts and The festival provides a fantastic crafts, children’s activities, live music a s s o r t m e n t o f e n te r t a i n m e n t , by Whitney Layne, an oyster eating

2014 NCBMF BREWER OF THE YEAR

PRIMALBREWERY.COM

TURKEY SHOOT 4PM - ??

16432 OLD STATESVILLE RD HUNTERSVILLE, NC 28078

NOVEMBER 7

Mountain Music Heaps O’ Food

Artisan Coffee Artisan Pastries Crafty Bakers 19905 W. Catawba Ave. Cornelius, NC 28031

704-439-0996 MaddysFattys.com 12

Regional Events & Destinations

Destinations contest, and shag competition. works to the public at this event. www.ncoysterfestival.com www.rutherfordtourism.com Punkin’ Chunkin’ Festival Sat Oct. 17th - Sun 18th 811 Settawig Rd, Brasstown, NC 28902. Food, arts & crafts, music & entertainment, beer & wine tent, activities, face painting, exhibits & games for all ages. Airplane rides, zip line, rock climbing wall & mechanical bull. www.ncmtnchamber.com

Aut u m n w it h Topsa i l S a t O c t .

17th 8am - 4pm Missile Assembly Building, 720 Channel Boulevard, Topsail Beach, NC 28445. Fall is a wonderful time at Topsail Beach.

The festival features a juried Artists’ Court with many regional artists displaying and selling their work.

Enjoy live musical entertainment, a variety of food vendors, games Lake Lure Arts & Crafts Festival and rides for children and more.

Sat Oct. 17th - Sun 18th 119 Arcade www.autumnwithtopsail.com.

St. Lake Lure, NC 28746. These 2 festivals celebrate the rich tradition North Carolina Yam Festival Sat Oct. of hand-made, Appalachian arts 24th Tabor City, NC. Food and craft and crafts and feature over 100 vendors, parade, entertainment and artists and crafters who personally more! Fun for the whole family. exhibit and sell their hand-made www.ncyamfestival.com Continued On Page 30

theDestinationMag.com 704-706-2365

13

14

Regional Events & Destinations

The Destination For Valle Girls

M

ountain music, handmade crafts, tasty barbecue and Brunswick stew, and a scenic mountain setting make the Valle Country Fair a must attend event in the North Carolina High Country on the third Saturday in October.

Admission is free and ample parking is available in the adjoining field for a small fee.

Two stages are set up to provide entertainment throughout the day.

The stage located near the dining tent features musical performers.

A second stage located among the crafts booths features cloggers, magicians, cowboys and more.

Guests can feel good about pigging out at the Valle Countr y Fair because almost all of the food concessions are operated by the church or other non-profit organizations that return 100 percent of their earnings to Fair charities. Tables and chairs are provided under a large tent located near the music stage so that fairgoers can enjoy the entertainment while they dine.

37th Annual Valle Country Fair October 17th, 2015 Valle Crucis Conference Center on NC Highway 194 from 9pm until 4pm. www.vallecountryfair.org

THE RURAL HILL

The Fair coincides with the first day of the Woolly Worm Festival, many people set aside the day to visit both.

Food concessions include Brunswick Stew, barbecue, chili, hot dogs and hamburgers, corndogs, sausage with onions, ham biscuits, ice cream, funnel cakes, baked goods, jams and jellies, fresh-pressed apple cider, and hot-out-of-the kettle apple butter. @ZACVINSON

theDestinationMag.com 704-706-2365

15

Gentle Giants

The Carolina BalloonFest

T

he 42nd annual Carolina B a l l o o n Fe s t t a k e s f l i g h t October 16-18, 2015 at the Statesville Regional Airport where over 50 breath-taking hot air balloons are scheduled to decorate the skies of Iredell County. Hot Air Balloons soar twice daily; early morning and late afternoon when the thermal atmosphere is most stable. Between scheduled flights, many attractions and family-friendly activities are scheduled to enjoy 3 days of fun!

50 Hot Air Balloons

3 Special Shapes 3 Mass Ascensions & 2 Fly Overs Sanctioned Competitions Hot Air Balloon Flights Tethered Balloon Rides Main Stage Entertainment 2nd Stage Entertainment Wine & Craft Beer Tasting Saturday Balloon Glow Sunday 5K & Kids Fun Run Kids Zone & Walk In Balloon Pilot Meet & Greet Balloon Learning Center Artisan Village & Market Expo Eat Street & Beer Tent Carolina BalloonFest attracts tens of thousands of people on Saturday & Sunday and is expected to sell out!

Here’s what you need to know before you go…

HOT AIR BALLOON FLIGHTS & ACTIVITIES ARE WEATHER DEPENDENT. All ballooning activities including static display, tethered rides and balloon flights are weather dependent.

ON SITE ADVANTAGE FESTIVAL PARKING. Reserved for Advance Ticket Holders while space is available.

PLAN TO PURCHASE ADVANCE TICKETS & ARRIVE EARLY to PARK by 1:00 PM ON SATURDAY & SUNDAY. BRING CASH. Many vendors & beer tickets are cash only purchases.

Residential & Commercial Real Estate Business Law & Collections Estate Planning

ITEMS NOT ALLOWED: Pets, Coolers, Food, Weapons, Drones, Pop-up Canopies. Search activities will be in progress.

704-897-3061

CAROLINA BALLOONFEST IS A RAIN OR SHINE EVENT. TICKETS are NONREFUNDABLE. For official festival information, visit CarolinaBalloonFest.com.

8936 N. Pointe Executive Park Drive Huntersville, NC 28078

Online scheduling: www.tcornishlaw.com

Ballantyne 704.752.7284 Charlotte 704.527.5783 Mooresville 704.799.2881 Huntersville 704.237.4387 Uptown 980.939.1166

www.duckworths.com theDestinationMag.com 704-706-2365

17

What’s Going On At The Realm In October?

M

ore than just knights and Fairies the North Carolina R e n a i s s a n c e Fe s t i v a l features a different fun filled theme each weekend. Here is a little peek at what is ahead.

¡Fiesta Renaissance Weekend!

October 10-11 10am 5:30pm Enjoy special performances influenced

by Spanish culture! SAVE $12 with FREE child admission ages 5-12.

BrewFest Weekend!

October 17-18 10am 5:30pm Host a toast of fine festival ale and taste the 2015 Gambrinus Cup Homebrew competition award winning brew!

Sample a selection of fine microbrewed ale and participate in a series of RenFest Beer Games.

show their stuff in the Men of Skills Competition! Contests include a Test of Strength, a Test of Confidence, and a Test of Skill. All in good fun! Prizes will be awarded. Huzzah!

Halloween Daze & Spooky Knights!

Oct. 31– Nov. 1 10am 5:30pm Children and parents alike enjoy the fun and safe trick or treating experience with free treats to be found at over 100 locations throughout the Festival Village.

Adventurous costumed ladies are invited to attend the Saucy Wench Costume Contest! Ladies are encouraged to flirtatiously strut their sultry stuff to influence the judges’ votes - all in good, clean fun! Prizes will be awarded.

Children and adults are also encouraged to show off their Halloween costumes and enter the Halloween Costume Contest!

All costumes are welcome! In addition, a full day of regular Festival entertainment is complimented by BrewFest activities from 12pm-3:30pm. the Knights of the Living Dead zombie jousting challenge happening three Celtic Music Jams Weekend! times daily throughout Halloween October 24-25 10am 5:30pm weekend.

Special guest musicians and Festival The 22nd annual Carolina mynstrel’s honor key individuals Renaissance Festival. instrumental in driving the region’s North of Charlotte between rich Celtic Music.

Concord and Huntersville.

Hunky Highlanders and non-kilt wearing Men are encouraged to

18

The Festival is located on Highway 73 at Poplar Tent Road (between I-77 and I-85).

www.carolina.renfestinfo.com,

Regional Events & Destinations

Cornucopia Of Autumn Fun

O

ctober in Lake Lure & the B l u e R i d g e Fo o t h i l l s o f Rutherford County, NC offers a cornucopia of autumn fun!

Experience the spirit of “Small Town Friendly” at the Hilltop Fall Festival in Historic Downtown Rutherfordton on October 3, which kicks off after an amazing 5K and the “Tour de Pumpkin” bike ride.

Enjoy local vendors, tasty fair food, face painting and the traditional scarecrow contest!

The same day, don’t miss the Vintage Tin Car Show at Rumbling Bald Resort in Lake Lure, where automobiles and trucks from all over the southeast (and the past century!) compete for top awards.

If breathtaking views are your thing, then you won’t want to miss “Fall Leaf Peeping” at Chimney Rock State Park! Starting October 15, enjoy the 75-mile panoramic foliage views in addition to the park’s amazing nature programs, hiking trails, and guided rock climbing action.

And all season long enjoy our gorgeous winding roads throughout Lake Lure & the Blue Ridge Foothills.

Visit www.RutherfordTourism.com to download fall color driving tour itineraries and experience all of our amazing fall color!

OPEN HOUSE OCT.9:3017TH - 2:30PM 548 PRESBYTERIAN ROAD ~ MOORESVILLE, NC 28115 704 237 4836 WWW.MANMADELEGENDS.COM

theDestinationMag.com 704-706-2365

19

20

Regional Events & Destinations

Lexington BBQ Tour

T

he mid-state Piedmont town of L exington has become almost synonymous with North Carolina barbecue at its best.

It’s easy to see why, thanks to a long legacy of people and places carrying on the decades-long tradition of ser ving up some of the tastiest barbecue and more – all with a side To d a y, m o r e t h a n a d o z e n of Southern hospitality.

Lexington-area barbecue restaurants can make for a tasty L e x i n g t o n i s b e s t k n o w n three-day exploration of North for hickor y-smoked pit-cooked Carolina barbecue at its most barbecued pit shoulders and has historic. Of course, the traditional been since the early-1900s. The beverage of choice at these popupork is offered up finely or coarsely lar establishments is oh-so-sweet chopped or as slices – but never tea, but you’ll also want to check “pulled.” It’s typically served with out several area wineries and “red” or “white” coleslaw and often wine shops, as well as drinks and as part of a sandwich tray or plate live music at always-rockin’ High with hushpuppies and more on the Rock Outfitters right downtown. side. The famed Lexington-style sauce is generally made of ketchup, Day 1: First Tastes of vinegar, sugar, salt and pepper.

Lexington Barbecue & More You’ll want to arrive by lunch Sid Weaver was a pioneering pit and head to either The Barbecue master who originally barbecued Center or Lexington Barbecue – or on his farm for friends, family both. Open since 1955 and featurand farmhands before moving his ing pit-cooked ‘cue, The Barbecue operation to a tent at the corner Center also features barbecue of Greensboro and West Center in chicken Wednesday to Saturday downtown Lexington. only, plus hugely popular – and huge – banana splits and homeNext came Will Johnson and Jesse made banana pudding. Lexington Swicegood in the 1920s, running Barbecue first opened its doors in popular pits near Lexington’s old 1962 and is often referred to as courthouse. Later, Warner Stamey can “The Honey Monk” or “Lexington be credited with furthering Lexington’s No. 1” by locals. The barbecue is status as a barbecue center, sharing pit-cooked and the sandwiches are his expertise with the friendly folks legendary. who opened Lexington Barbecue, Henry James, Jimmy’s, The Barbecue Next, check into the Holiday Center, Speedy Lohr’s, Smokey Joe’s Inn Express overlooking Childress and more.

Vineyards. For dinner, head to Continued On Page 29

theDestinationMag.com 704-706-2365

21

photo credit: Mark Houser

Explore The Mystery Of The Brown Mountain Lights

F

rom the time Cherokee and Catawba roamed North Carolina’s northern mountains, people have reported seeing strange lights at night in the Brown Mountains near Morganton in Burke County.

Sometimes they ’re pale, ghostly lights slowly moving along the trees, and sometimes they whirl and dart rapidly across the forest. The Brown Mountain Lights always appear in the woods, rise above the mountain t h e n s l o w l y d i s a p p e a r. T h e lights have even been captured on video. Theories abound from alien spacecraft to natural gas formations and, of course, g o v e r n m e n t c o n s p i r a c y, b u t no proven explanation has ever been established. The B u r k e C o u n t y To u r i s m o f f i c e hosts annual symposiums on the theories surrounding the lights, including group trips to the places where they ’re most

22

#89

frequently seen. The office also challenges visitors to capture images of the lights. The Brown Mountain Lights are typically visible on clear nights from vantage points along North Carolina Highway 181 and from Wiseman’s View in the Linville Gorge Wilderness area September through November.

Project 543 tells the story of unique spots across North Carolina we hope will become some of your favorite places.

Why 543? Because that’s the number of miles from Manteo, on the coast, to Murphy, in the mountains, and is traditionally considered to be the width of our state. The entries in this project are in no particular order, and we’ll add to them each week. Check in often to find inspiration for your next trip, or start planning today at VisitNC.com.

Regional Events & Destinations

Bridges Of Madison County PART DEUX

The Bridges of Madison County are the bridges that bring the generations together, music.

N

o doubt, this is where the cool people in Asheville come to enjoy life. Tucked Northwest of Asheville you’ll find a mix of art, culture, music and cuisine that is a true blend of contemporary and traditional. The fusion of old and new makes this destination one to put on the top of your “lets do something new this weekend” list.

Down the river a ways from Hot Spring is the community of Marshall, home of more musical history than even the Smithsonian can hold. with several working studios. The old depot is now a center for music and As you pull into Marshall you dancing every week. Other spaces have a river on one side and a have been rejuvenated with galleries, mountain on the other. They say the museums and contemporary dining. town is one mile long, one street wide and sky high. The landscape is We heard about a coffee house so limited the High School had to be right in the center of town across built on an island in the middle of the from the courthouse that hosts a French Broad River. bluegrass jam every Thursday night.

In the 1800’s Marshall was a booming community. Because of its location on a major transportation route–the Buncombe Turnpike, the town was selected to be the county seat.

In the early 1900’s a by-pass was built and the community had to adapt to survive. The High School now houses an artisan community

Zuma Coffee was not what we expected. We expected to be sitting on old benches inside watching dancers kick up sawdust on wooden floors. Instead we found ourselves in the middle of a Manhattan café. Progressive farm to fork menu, modern local artwork on the walls, bright colors and plenty of comfortable seating in front of the Bose sound system providing Continued On Page 30

theDestinationMag.com 704-706-2365

23

24

Regional Events & Destinations

A place where neighbors can EAT, MEET & DRINK Full Menu to 2am Fri • Sat • Sun

Feelin’ Fonzie?

C

ool weather, cool cars is what it’s all about here at Myra’s Ice Cream in Valdese, NC. Every Friday night from April to October, a free car show / Cruisin’ in that fills the street and takes you back in time to the era of sock hops, the Fonz, Elvis, & root beer floats.

Larry & Audrey Earp the owners of Myra’s for nearly 40 years love spending time with the community and giving back by hosting this event with a DJ that plays a variety of music from countr y, bluegrass, gospel and other nostalgic tunes that will get your toes tapping if not get you up and out of your chair in a down right boogie.

Want to win some money? Join in on the 50/50 raffle where your odds are pretty good to win the pot. But wait, with the last show of the season October 30th. With Halloween being so close you will need to watch out for the little ghosts & goblins as they will be lurking about looking for those treats!

Myra’s Ice Cream 212 Main St. West in Valdese, NC www.myrasofvaldese.com

M O N D A Y

$2 Tacos (All Day & Night), Coronas, Margaritas

T U E S D A Y

Half Price Wine • Bottle or Glass

W E D N E S D A Y

T H U R S D A Y

$3 Well Drinks • $3.50 NC Drafts Half Price Wings Every Wednesday 5pm – 10pm!

$3.50 Drafts

F R I D A Y

$6 Vodka Redbulls & Jack Daniels

S A T U R D A Y

SATURDAY MAY 16TH

$6 Crown Royal

S U N D A Y

$3 Bloody Mary Bar $2 Mimosas • $4 Double Mimosas

704•892•4433

8301-1 Magnolia Estates Drive Cornelius, NC 28031

Fri-Sun 11:00am-2:00am Mon-Thurs11:00am-12:00am

theDestinationMag.com 704-706-2365

25

WE ARE NORTH CAROLINA’S

#1 TOYHAULER DEALER!

CONCORD, NC • MARION, NC

tomjohnsoncamping.com

OCTOBER EVENTS Oct. 12 Action Pistol Competition

Oct. 13 Glock Shooting Sports Foundation Match

North Carolina’s LONGEST Indoor Range

Oct. 17 Mustang Show!

Food, Music Raffles, Poker Shoot and CARS! Call us for more info!

1417 Highway 16 North | Denver N.C. 28037 www.DenverDefenseUSA.com | 704-489-1000 26

Regional Events & Destinations

Turkey Shoot Primal Style

I

f you brew it, they will come.

Tucked in the growing town of Huntersville at 16432 Old Statesville Road, just north of the town hall, is Primal Brewery. Known for its delicious marzen, a German October fest beer, it’s so creamy they keep it year-round. Try the new autumn classic.

The Old Hag, a ginger snap ale that’s hearty and full of flavor. The Breweries newest event is their first annual Turkey Shoot taking place Saturday November 7. The new micro brewery was founded in 2013 and focuses on a variety of quality small batch beers which have already claimed such prizes as 2015 brewery of the year as voted by the patrons of the North Carolina Brewers and Music Festival.

be a primal style fall festival which is sure to become a tradition. Patrons will be invited to shoot paintballs at the breweries CEO David Hoy while he tries to duck shots in a giant turkey suit. Players will even win prizes such as pint glasses and t-shirts, and turkeys for hitting certain targets. The tradition will include other games fit for the whole family such as corn hole, life-size jinga, a pumpkin toss, and beer bobbing. Any primal fall festival wouldn’t be complete without live bluegrass music and dancing. Take a load off and enjoy the best beer garden in the Lake Norman area complete with family style picnic tables. Come hungry and grab a turkey leg or one of may other food options.

Webster’s defines “primal” as being essential or fundamental and from our perspective quality beer goes hand in hand with festivals. The first annual Primal Turkey Shoot will

theDestinationMag.com 704-706-2365

Primal Brewery 16432 Old Statesville Rd, Huntersville, NC 28078 Phone: (704) 947-2920 www.primalbrewery.com

27

28

Regional Events & Destinations

BBQ Tour Continued From Page 21

Smokey Joe’s Barbecue at 1101 S. There’s more ‘cue on the menu Main St., which opened in 1972 and at Backcountry Barbecue, which is serves lots of pork barbecue, salads known for its pit-cooked barbecue, and dinner plates. “skin” sandwiches, barbecue chicken Thursday to Sunday, and Day 2: More BBQ & Cheers to 20-ounce sirloin steaks. Then, there’s North Carolina Wine likely more live music at High Rock For a taste of more Lexington Outfitters. barbecue history, it’s hard to beat Speedy ’s Barbecue during lunch Day 3: A Final Lunch service. This popular destination Several local barbecue originally opened as Tussey’s in the restaurants do actually open for late 1930s and became Speedy’s in breakfast or an early lunch, but the early 1960s. you’ll want to keep in mind that many are closed on Sundays. Final F o r a b r i e f b r e a k f r o m lunch options – if you haven’t Lexington-style barbecue, you’ll already been by for a taste – inwant to enjoy an af ter noon of clude: Lexington-Style Trimmings; North Carolina wine, thanks to Jimmy’s BBQ; Smiley’s Lexington Davidson County’s location at the B B Q ; S p e e d y L o h r ’ s ; S p e e d y southern gateway of the famed L o h r ’ s B B Q o f A r c a d i a n e a r Yadkin Valley wine region. Chil- Welcome; Troutman’s Barbecue; dress Vineyards back by the hotel and Cook’s Barbecue, including is a good place to start. Other area legendary barbecued beef brisket. wineries on the Southern Gateway Wine Trail include Junius Known as the “capital” of North Lindsay Vineyards, Weather vane Carolina barbecue, L exington Winer y and Native Vines Winer y. celebrates its status with two major Lexington also features two great barbecue events: the BBQ Capital wine shops: Tastings Wine & Beer Cook-Off in late April and the and Wine Sellars.

Barbecue Festival in late October.

–www.visitnc.com

El Toro Mexican Grill & Bar

Real authentic Mexican food.

Located at Shops On The Green 20930 Torrence Chapel Rd Cornelius, NC 28031•704-997-2534

www.EltoroMexicanGrillandBar.com theDestinationMag.com 704-706-2365

29

Destinations Continued From Page 13

32nd Annual Barbecue Festival Sat Oct. 24th 2 S Main St. Lexington, NC 27292. The streets of Historic Uptown Lexington transform into a great big playground with food, entertainment, shopping and lots of family fun. Three large tents serving the world famous Lexington style barbecue. Six stages will host various entertainers throughout the day. See the schedule online at www.visitlexingtonnc.com 27th Annual NASCAR Day Festival Sat Oct. 24th 102 W Naomi St. Randleman, NC 27317. Considered the premiere event celebrating the heritage of NASCAR Legend Richard Petty and his family, the 27th Annual NASCAR Day Festival will cover a one mile area of downtown Randleman.

The event includes vintage race car displays, food, crafts, amusement vendors, games and live music.

This is a family friendly event! www.randlemanchamber.com

Oktoberfest at Sierra Nevada Sat Oct. 24th 5pm - 10pm Sierra Nevada Way, Fletcher, NC 28732. Sierra Nevada will host its inaugural Oktoberfest a t t h e M i l l s R i v e r b r e w e r y.

Oktoberfest features beer, food, live music and German food & music. www.sierranevada.com CiderFest NC Sat Nov. 7th 1pm - 5pm Brevard Rd at WNC Farmers Market, Asheville, NC 28810. Twenty plus Cider makers will be serving up their tasty varieties of hard cider along with a new addition of two local mead makers Bee & Bramble & Fox Hill Meadery! To compliment your cider we have added a new Chef’s Station where apples and hard cider will be the featured ingredients for small plates. And back again by popular demand is the WNC Cheese Trail offering samples from local creameries. www.ciderfest.wncgbc.org

Make sure you pre-order your supper, because at 7pm sharp the music fires up and the food starts reinforcement for the array stringed flying out of the kitchen. May I instruments. recommend the chefs’ special for the evening?

The jam is hosted by Grammy Blue Ridge Music Trail Award winner Bobby Hicks if he is Nestled within the North Carolina not on tour. The session starts at 7pm, mountains and foothills, a region but if you want a seat you need to get known for its spectacular beauty, there by 6pm. Musicians saunter in moderate climate, Cherokee heritage, handmade crafts, small and stake out a spot in front of the family farms, and, of course, window. The better musicians set its rich musical traditions. The up close to the microphones while geographic footprint of the Blue Ridge Music Trails consists the less prominent pickers settle in of twenty-nine counties in the at the back. western third of the state.

Bridges Continued From Page 23

www.blueridgemusicnc.com

30

Regional Events & Destinations

TILLEY Harley-Davidson ®

4th ANNUAL TRIBUTE TO THE TROOPS MEMORIAL RIDE AND CONCERT HONORING FAMILIES OF NORTH CAROLINA’S FALLEN HEROES

RIDE: SAT. OCT 10 & SUN. OCT 11 CONCERT: SAT. OCT 10 FEATURING A CONCERT BY FOUNDER AND U.S. ARMY VETERAN ROCKIE LYNNE CONCERT IMMEDIATELY FOLLOWING SAT RIDE H RICHARDS COFFEE SHOP MOORESVILLE H 6:00 P.M. H FREE ADMISSION H EVERYONE IS WELCOME PROUDLY SPONSORED BY SAM’S CLUB

REGISTRATION BEGINS BOTH DAYS AT 7:00AM AND KICKSTANDS UP AT TILLEY HARLEY-DAVIDSON IN inSTATESVILLE. Tribute To TheAT Troops is8:45AM a 501c3 organization of volunteers dedicated to remembering those brave heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice service to our country. The Annual Ride and

JOIN US FOR THIS RIDE FOR ONE OR BOTH DAYS H REGISTRATION BEGINS 7:00 A.M. saturday at TILLEY H-D statesville AND CROSSROADS H-D Wilkesboro. KICKSTANDS UP: 8:45 a.m. H REGISTRAtION BEGINS 7:00 A.M. on sunday at tilley h-D statesville location only - kickstands up 8:45 a.m. H registration free Hall riders must register Concert provides participants an opportunity to honor our fallen heroes and their family by visiting the families to convey their sympathy and to let them know that their loss will never be forgotten. Please join us for a ride that you will never forget. H www.tributetothetroops.org H FOR MORE INFORMATION, CALL 704-380-2624 H infoNC@tributetothetroops.org

Remember October Is Breast Cancer Awareness Month

SATURDAY

OCTOBER 31ST

HAPPY HALLOWEEN Come By In Costumes But Not Required To Register For The Poker Run For Children’s Hope Alliance. (Barium Springs & Grandfather Home for Children & Families throughout North Carolina)

REGISTRATION 9:00AM – 10:00AM At Tilley HarleyDavidson. Last Bike In At 2PM

Sponsored By

PRIZES FOR BEST COSTUME, BEST & WORST HAND, RAFFLE , 50/50

HALLOWEEN TREATS FOR KIDS!!!

TILLEY HARLEY-DAVIDSON® OF STATESVILLE

1226 Morland Dr. Statesville, NC

704-872-3883

theDestinationMag.com 704-706-2365

WWW.TILLEYHD.COM

31

Plan Your Holiday Party With Us! Huntersville Newly Remodeled

LANCASTERSBBQ.COM

704•394•1464 9230 Beatties Ford Road Huntersville 704•663•5807 515 Rinehardt Road Mooresville

CASUAL DINING CULINARY PERFECTION

Relaxing Atmosphere New American Cuisine Lunch • Cocktails Romantic Dinner & Much More Book Your Holiday Party Now Off Interstate 77 at Exit 33 117 Trade Court - Mooresville

704-799-1110

32

www.jeffreyslkn.com

Regional Events & Destinations