Issue 067 October the Destination Magazine™

the Issue 67 Local & Regional Events & Destinations

Wilson’s Whirligigs

Carolina BalloonFest

BrewFest Weekend!

Celebrate Swine & Fine Wine In Lexington Punkin Chunkin Is A Big Deal In Clay County!

Beer, BBQ & Whisky Trolley Gaston Outside

We Tell You Where To Go! theDestinationMag.com

Page 17

2

Regional Events & Destinations

OCTOBER 15, 21, 29 AND NOVEMBER 5

BEER, BARBEQUE, AND WHISKY TOUR Join your friends on the Ridgeline Trolley for an exciting tour of craft breweries, a whisky distillery, and wonderful lunch featuring mouth-watering smoked barbeque. Tour price includes lunch, whisky tasting and transportation Beer samples are free. Beer flights and pints are individually purchased by guests.

GIVE US A CALL AT 888-462-2921 WWW.RIDGELINETROLLEY.COM 3

theDestinationMag.com 704-706-2365

October 2016 Issue 67

the

W

e Tell you where to go!

Whether you are a long time resident or new to the area, you’ll find local & 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The Destination Magazine™ is not a historical document, we will not write about spectacular events you’ve missed. If you are seeking new destinations to explore on your own, or ideas for things to do with friends and family you will find a new experience every month in the Destination Magazine™ .

We know we are on to something!

Lisa & Andy Jay Publishers Published by: Photodude.net Marketing Manager: Lisa Jay Sales: Eric Beach Contributing Writers: Lisa Jay, Craig Distl, Kara Werts, Teresa Blake, Sara Severns, Project 543 Contributing Photographers: Bill Russ, PhotodudeART.com, Olivia Binstead, Madison Hedrick 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 ©2016 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 14

Page 17

Page 21

Page 25

Contents DayTrip Destinations

6

Wilson’s Whirligigs

14

BrewFest Weekend!

15

Carolina BalloonFest

17

Celebrate Swine & Fine Wine In Lexington

19

Punkin Chunkin Is A Big Deal In Clay County!

21

Beer, BBQ & Whisky Trolley

23

Gaston Outside

25

We Tell You Where To Go! Regional Events & Destinations

UPTOWN LEXINGTON, NC

UPTOWN LEXINGTON, NC

UPTOWN LEXINGTON, NC

OCTOBER 22, 2016

www.barbecuefestival.com 5

theDestinationMag.com 704-706-2365 September Destination magazine.indd 1

8/19/2016 9:37:27 AM

Destinations

DayTrip Destinations Carolina Jubilee Fri September 30th–Sat Oct 1st VanHoy Farms Family Campground, 742 Jericho Rd, Harmony, NC 28634. The event features local and national music acts, farm-to -table restaurants, food trucks supporting sustainable farming, a beer garden showcasing local and regional microbreweries, farmers and farming related groups showcasing what they do as well as hosting workshops regarding sustainability, clean and renewable energy, nutrition and health, and how to support t h e l o c a l f a r m c o m m u n i t y. www.thecarolinajubilee.org Brushy Mountain Apple Festival Sat Oct 1st Wilkesboro, NC. Downtown streets are filled with more than 425 arts and crafts, 100 food concessions, and four different music stages featuring a variety of music. Cloggers, folk dancers, rope skippers and square dancers. www.applefestival.net 8th Annual Scotland County Highland Games Sat Oct 1st 9am–8pm 13040 X Way Rd,

Laurinburg, NC 28352. Watch our lads compete in traditional events, such as tossing the caber and the sheaf toss–throwing a 20-pound bale of straw straight up using a pitchfork!

Of course, what would the games be without the piping and drumming, dancing and Tartan glory associated with this unique culture. And this year stay around for an evening Celtic Rock Concert Featuring Seven Nations. Concert starts at 6:30. Beer and food vendors will be on site. www.schgnc.org Carolina Renaissance Festival Weekends starting Oct 1st–Nov 20th 10am–5:30pm 16445 Poplar Tent Rd, Huntersville, NC 28078.

Fi r s t i n t r o d u c e d i n 1 9 9 4 w i t h six acres of exhibits, attractions and entertainment, the event has grown into a 20-acre theme park. The Renaissance Festival is a 16th centur y European-style art and entertainment festival combining outdoor theater, circus entertainment, marketplace, jousting tournament, and a feast fit for royalty. www.royalfaires.com

“We Shop, YOU Save” Auto•Home•RV Life•Business chip@getinsurancesolutions.com

Motorcycle•ATV

Ser ving the Carolinas since 1998

Renters•Boat

www.GetInsuranceSolutions.com 6

Regional Events & Destinations

Destinations 37th Annual Sonker Festival Sat Oct 1st 1pm–5pm EdwardsFranklin House, 4132 Haystack Rd, Mt Air y, NC 27030. Features sonkers, old-time and bluegrass music, quilters, flat foot dancing, Civil War exhibit, and more. Bring a lawn chair and/or blanket. Sonker is Surry County’s unique style of a deep-dish pie that dates back to the times of the early settlers.

The Sonker Festival is part of the Surr y Sonker Trail, showcasing sonker all across Surr y County! www.sonkertrail.org Thistle Meadow Winem a k e r ’s Fe s t i v a l S u n O c t 2nd 102 Thistle Meadow, Laurel Springs, NC 28644. Amateur winemakers showcase their talent

a t t h e Thistle Meadow Winer y www.thistlemeadowwiner y.com 31st Annual Oktoberfest Fri Oct 7th–Sun 9th 222 Union Square NW, Hickory, NC 28601. Five stages offer present non-stop musical entertainment. Kids can enjoy the Kidsfest area, offering amusement rides and games for a thrill for all ages. Artisans are selling such items as beautiful pottery, jewelry, glass, fabrics, woodcrafts, etc.

Commercial vendors have a variety of merchandise ranging from sunglasses to handmade soaps.

There are many food vendors located in the Food Court, selling a variety of treats, goodies and great food. www.hickoryoktoberfest.com.

Continued On Page 8

Planning on buying or listing in the Charlotte/ Lake Norman area?

CALL THE PURVIS TEAM! (704) 707-6632 121 Rolling Hill Rd • Mooresville, North Carolina theDestinationMag.com 704-706-2365

7

Destinations Continued From Page 7

25t h A n nua l Tou r de P i g C ycling Event Sat Oct 8th 7:30am–2pm Davidson Community College Rd, Thomasville, NC 27360.

The Tour de Pig is a day of fun for the entire family. In addition to the bide ride, participants enjoy a delicious barbecue lunch along with a chance to win door prizes. Routes are available for all levels of ability. Cycling Categories: 20K, 35K, 50K and 100K. www.barbecuefestival.com Rural Hill A mazing Maize Maze Fri-Sun Sept 30th–Nov 6th 10am–5pm Historic Rural Hill, 4431 Neck Rd, Huntersville, NC 28078.

There’s more than enough fun and confusion for all! Get lost in our giant seven-acre corn maze featuring over two miles of interconnecting paths.

One of the largest in the Southeast, our maze is sure to please! The whole of Rural Hill’s 265 acres is available to you and your group during maze hours–take a hayride around the farm, play a round of corn-hole, explore our historic site, play in our mini-mazes, have a picnic, hike our trails, pick a pumpkin (in October,) & much, much more. www.ruralhill.net

The Eastern Carolina BBQ Throw Down Fri Oct 7th–Sat 8th 427 S Church St, Rocky Mount, NC 27804. Featuring a professional K ansas City Barbecue Society cooking competition, the Eastern Carolina BBQ Throw Down can bring the heat- and the meat!

Join us in the heart of historic downtown Rocky Mount for a fun two-day event featuring live music, children’s activities, vendors, local craft beer and great food. This year ’s event will feature the 2nd annual Home Brew Competition, with live judging on Saturday, October 8, where local amateur brewers compete for cash prizes!

This is a party you don’t want to miss! Bring your lawn chairs or blankets and come have some fun with your friends and neighbors. www.bbqthrowdown.net Cashiers Valley 8th Annual Leaf Festival Fri Oct 7th–Sun 9th Frank Allen Rd, Cashiers, NC 28717.

Visitors will find unique handcrafted wood, pottery, jewelry and much more on display and available for purchase throughout the weekend.

There will be plenty of food and drinks available in both parking

UNIQUELY CRAFTED BEERS

Food Trucks - Live Music - Pet Friendly Check facebook for the latest information cor neliusdrafthouse.com

19818-C NORTH COVE ROAD, CORNELIUS (704) 560-7874 8

Regional Events & Destinations

Destinations lots behind the two stages of the park, which will be filled with live music throughout the weekend. www.villagegreencashiersnc.com Fly-In Social with the Wilkes Flying Club Sat Oct 8th 8am– 12pm 640 Wood Wallace Dr, North Wilkesboro, NC 28659. Bring your friends, a dish to share and a hearty appetite for aviation. Members of the WFC will be on hand to greet you; a short presentation will be made each month about a different aviation topic and a short overview of what the surrounding area offers. www.WilkesFlyingClub.com

Attendees will experience southern Appalachian culture at its best with clogging and traditional agricultural techniques of the past, such as molasses boiling. This festival will bring bluegrass entertainment, jam sessions, clogging, molasses making, apple butter making, hayrides, food, crafts, games and more!

Smoky Mountain Fly Fishing Festival Sat Oct 8th 9am–5pm 20 Fry St, Bryson City, NC 28713.

Celebrate the new Delayed Harvest waters on the Tuckasegee River and Br yson City ’s designation of “Trout City” at this annual festival.

34th Annual Molasses Festival Vendors will be set up to display Sat Oct 8th 9am–4pm 6160 Petra and demonstrate all types of fly Mill Rd, Granite Falls, NC 28630.

Continued On Page 10

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.

Taproom Hours Thu & Fri: 4-10 Sat: 2-10 Sun: 12-8 Delivery Hours Fri & Sat: 6-10

Visit our taproom!

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

9

Destinations Continued From Page 9

fishing equipment. Simms will g r e e n s a n d w i c h e s , b a r b e c u e , be on hand to debut its 2016 line. turkey legs, hamburgers & hot www.greatsmokies.com dogs, ground steak sandwiches, Amish doughnuts, and so more!

Harvest to Barrel Party Sat www.autumnleavesfestival.com Oct 8th 1pm–5pm South Creek Vineyards & Winery, 2240 S Creek Shelton Vineyards Harvest Rd, Nebo, NC 28761. It’s our annual Festival Fireside Kick-off Fri celebration of the harvest. We’re Oct 14th 6:30pm–8:30pm 286 Cabbringing back stellar artist L ee ernet Ln, Dobson, NC 27017. Join Lindsey and our local fabulous us Friday evening as we kickoff the food truck, Poor Man’s BBQ & More 2016 Harvest Festival with a dinner serves up delectable food. It’s a day buffet by Chef Paul. Enjoy the cool full of fine wine, music, food and autumn evening as you dine, relax friends. Tasting room opens at 11 am and sip Shelton Vineyards awardso consider enjoying a wine tasting winning wine. Wines will be sold by for a nominal fee while you’re the glass and the bottle! Make your here. Poor Man’s begins serving at reservations by calling or emailing noon and the music starts at 1pm. us. Reservations required and are www.southcreekwinery.com held with a credit card. No cancellations within 48 hours of the event.

Autumn Leaves Festival Fri Oct Reservations required by 10/10/2016.

14th–Sun 16th 200 N Main St, Mt www.sheltonvineyards.com Airy, NC 27030. The 50th Annual Autumn Leaves Festival takes place Valle Country Fair Sat Oct 15th in Historic Downtown Mount Airy. Valle Crucis Conference Center, The festival showcases the area’s NC-194. The Fair is an overgrown cultural and musical heritage, church bazaar set in the center of featuring old time, bluegrass and one of the most picturesque valleys gospel music plus unique arts & in the North Carolina Mountains at crafts of more than 170 craftsmen. the peak of the fall color season. The Don’t forget to enjoy “Food for tents of 150 juried craft exhibitors the Soul”–ham biscuits, collard line wide lanes that meander back

Artisan Coffee Artisan Pastries Holiday Pies!

19905 W. Catawba Ave. Cornelius, NC 28031

704-439-0996 MaddysFattys.com 10

Regional Events & Destinations

Destinations and forth across the grounds. 39th Annual Woolly Worm www.vallecountryfair.org Festival Sat Oct 15th–Sun 16th 185 Azalea Cir SE, Banner Elk, NC L a ke L u r e A r t s & C r a f t s 28604. Highlights of this unique Festival Sat Oct 15th–Sun 16th 119 event are racing your own Woolly Arcade St, Lake Lure, NC 28746. This Worm which can be purchased at 2-day fall festival celebrates the rich the event or you may bring your tradition of hand-made, Appalachian own. Remember the winning woolly arts and crafts and features over 80 on Saturday has the esteemed artisans and crafters who personally h o n o r o f p r e d i c t i n g t h e H i g h exhibit and sell their hand-made Country’s weather and will share works to the public at this event. its $1,000 cash prize with its owner.

Enjoy fun for the whole family! 12 www.woollyworm.com great food and beverage vendors, entertaining musicians all day, a 11th Annual Harvest Festival at creek-side picnic area and a large Shelton Vineyards Sat Oct 15th–Sun kids activity zone. This is an event 16th 286 Cabernet Ln, Dobson, NC you won’t want to miss! www. 27017. Stroll through the grounds lakelureartsandcraftsfestivals.com and visit vendors with hand-crafted items and locally grown produce.

Continued On Page 12

Antique Car Restoration Complete Turnkey Hot Rods Custom Motorcycles Chassis Fabrication Custom Body Fabrication

Mooresville NC 704 363 0722

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

11

Destinations Continued From Page 11

Kids can enjoy face-painting and the whole family can take a hayride through the vineyard. Relax and listen to the live music while sipping on your favorite Shelton Vineyards wine. www.sheltonvineyards.com Punkin’ Chunkin’ Festival Sat Oct 15th–Sun 16th 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 Annual Cornshucking Frolic at Horne Creek Farm Sat Oct 15th 10am–5pm Horne Creek Living Historical Farm, 308 Horne Creek Farm Rd, Pinnacle, NC 27043.

Molasses making, quilting, blacksmithing, cooking demonstrations, shucking and shelling corn, woodworking, and plowing are just a few of the 50 activities planned.

Need some food? How about chicken stew, pintos and cornbread, fried pies, BBQ, hamburgers and hot dogs, and roasted corn? www.nchistoricsites.org

Annual Chili Cook Off and Fall Festival Sat Oct 15th 11am–4pm 226 Everett St, Bryson City, NC 28713.

Looking for a way to “heat” up your Bryson City getaway? Then make your plans now to attend the annual Bryson City Chamber of Commerce Chili Cook Off, a favorite of both locals and visitors. Sample chilis ranging from mild to wild and in red, white, and vegetarian recipes. Enjoy a festival atmosphere with decorated booths, live music, handcrafted arts and yummy homemade desserts. www.greatsmokies.com Yadkin Valley Grape Festival Sat Oct 15th 11am–5pm 205 S Jackson St, Yadkinville, NC 27055.

The Yadkin Valley Grape Festival is open to the public, including families with children. There will be food, craft vendor displays and music that will take place adjacent to the wine tasting area. Free admission to those not sampling wines. A wine band must be purchased in order to taste the wines. Come out and sample the wonderful wines of the Yadkin Valley. www.yvgf.com

517 Alcove Road•Suite 202 Mooresville, NC 28117 704-660-5510 info@theucenter.org

12

Regional Events & Destinations

Destinations Laketober fest! Sat Oct 15th 4pm–9pm Bailey Road Park, 11536 Bailey Rd, Cornelius, NC 28031.

Lake Norman’s largest craft beer and music festival will feature a star-studded lineup of 15 local and regional breweries! The event will also include performances from some of the area’s top bands, 15 food trucks, street vendors, and a jam-packed lineup of Octoberfest games and activities! www.bellalove.com LEAF Festival Thu Oct 20th–Sun 23rd 377 L ake Eden Rd, Black Mountain, NC 28711. Enjoy a variety of music on five stages, seven interactive-art kids villages, lake activities, camping, 50+ healing arts workshops, handcrafts, food,

beer and dancing in a familyfriendly, majestic mountain setting. www.theleaf.com 2016 Carolina BalloonFest Fri Oct 21st–Sun 23rd Statesville Regional Airport, 260 Hangar Dr, Statesville, NC 28677. Carolina 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. Our amazing gentle giants take to the skies only twice daily, if safe weather conditions exist. As the second oldest hot air balloon festival in the United States, Carolina BalloonFest attracts tens

iBroke it. iBroke it.

Continued On Page 28

It doesn’t matter who broke it.

It doesn’t matter who broke it.

Great prices on iPhone® and iPad® repairs including cracked screens, home buttons, power buttons and more! We also replace batteries in iPhones® and iPads.® ® ® Great Plus prices on60,000 iPhonebatteries and iPad nearly & bulbs!repairs

including cracked screens, home buttons, $10.00 power buttons and more! We also replace Off Any Screen Repair batteries in iPhones® and iPads.® Plus nearly 60,000 batteries & bulbs!

10% OFF

Limit 1 Expires 00.00.00 BB059

Offer valid on in-stock products at participating locations. Not valid with other offers or business pricing. Some exclusions may apply. Must present coupon in-store; not valid for online purchases. No cash value. See store for complete details.

$10.00WITH THIS AD 484 River HWY.

Off Any Screen Repair

484 RIVERMOORESVILLE HWY. MOORESVILLE, NC (704) 235-0540 (704) 235-0540 Limit 1 Expires 00.00.00 BB059

704•997•2534 www.eltorogrill.us

Offer valid on in-stock products at participating locations. Not valid with other offers or business pricing. Some exclusions may apply. Must present coupon in-store; not valid for online purchases. No cash value. See store for complete details.

Address

Conveniently located for all LKN visitors.

Perfect for the entire family.

20930 Torrence Chapel Rd. Cornelius.

Just west of I-77 exit 28

City 000-000-0000

www.batteriesplus.com www.batteriesplus.com

theDestinationMag.com 704-706-2365

13

Wilson’s Whirligigs

W

ilson, North Carolina, is home to Whirligigs

by Vollis Simpson, the official folk art of North Carolina.

In celebration of people and art in motion the North Carolina Whirligig Festival pays homage to these soaring sculptures made of recycled material with two days of whimsical fun.

music and all your favorite regional performers. When you need to break for food or libations there will be delicious food vendors among the arts-and-crafts street fair and two craft beer stops at The Beer Garden, E a c h y e a r, d u r i n g t h e f i r s t a bottle shop and tap room, and 217 weekend of November the festival Brew Works, a community brewery. attracts 35,000 visitors to Historic Downtown Wilson. Among the To w r a p u p t h e f e s t i v a l o n festival’s most popular activities is the Sunday, people gather around on Whirligig Conservation Headquarters the courthouse plaza for a tasty cake where you can observe and interact dive with prizes for all participants. with these gigantic art pieces up But don’t leave without seeing our close. Most festival goers venture up newest innovative, festival feature, one block to see the developing Vollis F1 FPV Drone Racing.

Simpson Whirligig Park where 32 Whirligigs will stand in all their glory The North Carolina Whirligig honoring Simpson’s legacy.

Festival has been recognized as one of the top 20 fall events by the Artisans and craftspeople display Southeast Tourism Society and you their wares along the street fair will not want to miss it! on Nash Street, but that’s just the beginning! For our music lovers the Wilson Whirligig Festival festival has two entertainment stages Sat Nov 5th - Sun 6th for live music, covering bluegrass, 200 Nash St SE, Wilson, NC 27893 southern soul, classic rock, beach whirligigfestivalnc.org

FREE Lake Norman Relocation Package 12th Year of Award Winning Service to Buyers & Sellers Recipient Top Charlotte Real Estate Agent

14

frances dawson

REALTOR, BROKER, GRI, SRES

Cell/Text: 704-701-7599 Regional Events & Destinations

BrewFest Weekend!

H

ost a toast of fine festival ale and taste the 2016 Gambrinus Cup Homebrew competition award winning brew! Lee Hill and his Strong Bitter entitled London Layover was declared winner. Learn about the time honored craft of beer brewing! Sample a selection of fine micro-brewed ale and participate in a series of RenFest Beer Games.

This festival of fermentation is Oct 15th & 16th, BrewFest activities Adventurous costumed ladies start at 12pm and end at 4pm at the are invited to attend the Saucy New Haven.

Wench Costume Contest! Ladies The 23rd Annual Carolina are encouraged to flirtatiously strut Renaissance Festival. their sultr y stuff to influence the The Festival is located on Highway judges’ votes - all in good, clean fun 73 at Poplar Tent Road (between I-77 and I-85). of course! Prizes will be awarded. www.carolina.renfestinfo.com

Food • Crafts • Entertainment • Games for the

FUN WHOLE FAMILY 8th A n nu a l

P u n k i nu n k i n Ch

Parking $3 • General Admission $5 Children (5-10) $1 • Under 5 Free

Fe st i va l

Sat., Oct. 15 • 10-6 Sun., Oct. 16 • 12-5

Food • Arts & Craf ts Beer & Wine Tent Activities • Face Painting Exhibits & Games For All Ages Airplane Rides • Zipline Rock Climbing Wall Mechanical Bull Sorry! No pets allowed on premises.

811 Settawig Road • Brasstown, NC

Music & Food, A Fun Family Event • Free to enter your best recipes

Fri., Oct. 14 • 6pm • Hayesville Square

Chili Cook-Off and Anything Pumpkin Competition Sponsored by the Clay County Chamber of Commerce.

For more info call: 828-389-3704 or 877-389-3704. Or visit www.ncmtnchamber.com.

theDestinationMag.com 704-706-2365

15

Go Gaston.

Get Outside.

Go play a round in Gaston County.

For the outdoor enthusiast in all of us, Gaston County offers great golf as well as a wide array of other sporting activities. Let us help you plan your next weekend getaway and connect you with our County’s numerous natural assets. Call us for a FREE Visitors Guide. 800-849-9994 | 704-825-4044 | #gogaston | gogaston.org |

16

Regional Events & Destinations

Carolina BalloonFest

C

arolina BalloonFest launches October 21-23, 2016 in Statesville North Carolina where over 50 breath-taking hot air balloons are scheduled to take flight for the 43rd year in Iredell County.

Hot Air Balloons soar twice daily; early morning and late afternoon.

Between flights, many attractions and family-friendly activities are scheduled to enjoy 3 days of lofty, magical fun!

Over 50 Hot Air Balloons & 3 Special Shapes 3 Mass Ascensions & 2 Fly Overs Sanctioned Competitions Hot Air Balloon Flights & Tethered Balloon Rides Main and 2nd Stage Entertainment 2nd Stage Entertainment Wine & Craft Beer Tasting Garden Amazing Saturday Evening Balloon Glow Kids Zone & Walk In Balloon Artist Tent Activities.

WHAT 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 FESTIVAL Parking is reserved for ticket holders only. Guests without prepaid tickets will be redirected to Park & Ride locations; free shuttle to festival gate.

PURCHASE ADVANCE TICKETS! PARK by 1:00 PM on SATURDAY & SUNDAY. BRING CASH. Majority of vendors are cash only purchases.

ITEMS PERMITTED: blankets, lawn chairs, cameras. ITEMS NOT ALLOWED: pets, coolers, food, weapons, drones, popup canopies. CAROLINA BALLOONFEST IS A RAIN OR SHINE EVENT. Tickets are NON-refundable.

CarolinaBalloonFest.com

theDestinationMag.com 704-706-2365

17

LEARN STAND UP PADDLEBOARDING GROUP OR PRIVATE

Stand Up Paddleboard Rentals Hourly, Daily And Weekly Less than 1 mile from Birkdale or the Peninsula

Unique Yoga On The Water Classes Sunset Paddle Tours

WATERFRONT LOCATION 17505 W. Catawba Ave. | Suite 130 Cornelius, NC 28031

704.412.2999

www.paddleboardcharlotte.com

18

WATERFRONT LOCATION 17505 W. Catawba Ave. |&Suite 130 Regional Events Destinations Cornelius, NC 28031

704.412.2999

Celebrate Swine & Fine Wine In Lexington

M

ore than 100,000 people are expected to enjoy the flavor of slow-cooked pork barbecue, the kind that makes the city the “Barbecue Capital of the World.”

The Barbecue Car nival and Family area provides all kinds of fun activities for children. And, everyone loves the “Hogway Speedway ” racing pigs! Other festival special attractions include: a 50-ton “pigthemed” sand sculpture, juried art and craft show; an antique car show; Corvette exhibit; a bicycle stunt show; “Festival Chop Shop” Lumberjack Sports Show; rock climbing wall and lots more.

A visit to the town square at the historic courthouse will give visitors an opportunity to purchase official festival souvenirs. And, be sure to stop by the Childress Vineyards tent, also located at the square, to pick up a bottle of “Fine Swine Wine”. In celebration of Lexington’s famous barbecue heritage and the Barbecue Festival, nationally renowned artist Bob Timberlake and legendar y NA SCAR team owner Richard Childress joined forces to create a wine especially for barbecue. Crafted by award winning winemaker Mark Friszolowski of Childress Vineyards, the next edition of “Fine Swine Wine” will make it’s debut at the Continued On Page 20

EAT .

PLAY .

RELAX. staycation Residential & Commercial Real Estate

704-897-3061 Online scheduling: www.tcornishlaw.com

davidson, nc

Restaurant Row Craft Brew Farmers Market Shopping

8936 N. Pointe Executive Park Drive Huntersville, NC 28078 theDestinationMag.com 704-706-2365

cedarsdavidson.com

704.765.4930 19

Celebrate Continued From Page 19

festival to satisfy the demand of those who appreciate fine food and wine pairings!

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

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

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

T H U R S D A Y

The annual celebration culminates a month-long series of events celebrating the local cuisine: Barbecue Festival Tennis Tournament; Childress Idol Singing Competition; Tour de Pig Cycling Event; Pepsi “Pig Tale” Creative Writing Competition; Barbecue Festival Golf Tournament; Senior “Pig Out” Party, held annually at the Davidson County Senior Center; Hawg Shoot Air-Rifle Match; Riding Hawg Wild Motorcycle Event; and the 5K Hawg Run & 1 Mile Fun Run. For more information: www.barbecuefestival.com or call 336-956-1880.

$3.50 Drafts

F R I D A Y

$6 Vodka Redbull • $5 Fire Ball

S A T U R D A Y

SATURDAY MAY 16TH

$550 Tito’s Vodka • $2 Bud Light Bottles Hangover Helper Shooters

S U N D A Y

$4 Best Bloody Mary Bar On The Lake $2 Mimosas • $4 Double Mimosas • $2 Miller Lt Btl

704•892•4433

8301-1 Magnolia Estates Drive Cornelius, NC 28031

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

20

Regional Events & Destinations

Punkin Chunkin Is A Big Deal In Clay County!

T

he Clay County Chamber of Commerce is once again proud to bring the 8th Annual Punkin Chunkin Festival to the area.

Last year we had record breaking crowds attend and this year is looking like we might double our attendance. The Chamber has had calls from as far away as Washington inquiring about places to stay during this event. The catapults, trebuchets and air cannons will be arriving Thursday October 13th to set up at Vic Payne’s airport runway

located at 811 Settawig Road in Brasstown, NC. The 2016 Punkin Chunkin Fe s t i v a l w i l l b e g i n S a t u r d a y morning, October 15th at 10am and run until 6pm. Sunday, October 16th the gates will open at noon and announcing of the winners will be at 5pm. Not only will there be big machines to wow you with but there will be fun and games for the entire family along with food vendors, crafters and even Continued On Page 22

North Carolina

Nov. 5 | 10am - 5pm • Nov. 6 | noon - 5pm Fun for the whole family!

Enjoy a weekend of artisans, music, food & Whirligigs.

www.WhirligigFestivalNC.org

theDestinationMag.com 704-706-2365

21

Punkin Chunkin Continued From Page 21

a beer tent. Any one adventurous enough to try the zip line will be amazed at the thrill of the ride and if that is not enough for you there will be a mechanical bull to try to ride! Along with the arts and crafts booths we offer music and entertainment, pie eating contest, a spud gun competition, martial arts demonstrations, plane rides, soccer ball competition and wonderful festival food! Parking is $3.00 per car and admissions is $5.00 for adults and children 10 and over, kids 5 – 9 are $1.00 and anyone under the age of 5 is free.

Cook off and Anything Pumpkin competition going on starting at 6pm. Anyone is invited to come and show off your best chili recipe or anything pumpkin with the possibility of winning $100.00 for first place, $50.00 for second place and $25.00 for third. There is no entry fee for the competitors. Call the Chamber at 828-389-3704 for further information or to sign up!

On the 14th of October, the night before, down on the historic square of Hayesville there is a Chili

Wine - Gifts Gourmet Snacks

TWO LOCATIONS

RUSTIC - Craft Beer Piano - Cigars

ONE

The DESTINATION Cabin LAKE NORMAN ON THE WATER

200-400 North Harbor Place - Davidson NC 704.237.3629

www.LakeNormanCottage.com

Next to North Harbor Club on the water off of exit 30 I-77

22

Regional Events & Destinations

Beer, BBQ & Whisky Trolley

J

oin your friends on the Ridgeline Trolley for an exciting tour of craft breweries, a whisky distillery, and lunch featuring award wining smoked barbeque.

Take a fall color tour on a classically restored trolley through the colorful foothills of N.C. Your destinations include lunch at JD’s Smokehouse in Rutherford College, a distillery tour and whisky tasting at Defiant Distillery in the South Mountains. Brewery tour and tasting at Fonta Flora Brewery in Morganton and cider and beer tasting at Brown Mountain Bottleworks in Morganton finish the day.

Tour includes lunch & whisky tasting. Beer samples are free. Beer flights and pints are individually purchased by guests

Ridgeline Trolley and Tours www.RidgelineTrolley.com

theDestinationMag.com 704-706-2365

23

3

October 21-23, 2016

Statesville, NC

Soaring to Benefit Local Nonprofits

DAYS OF FAMILY-FRIENDLY FUN OVER 50 HOT AIR BALLOONS & MORE!

ADVANCE TICKETS AT CAROLINABALLOONFEST.COM

Hot Air Balloon Flights are scheduled to launch twice daily (early morning & late afternoon) and weather dependent. Due to limited entrance points into our festival, traffic can become an issue. Guests are advised to PARK by 1 PM on SATURDAY & SUNDAY to arrive inside the festival gates for late afternoon launches. Weather conditions also determine guest access to Inflatables and Tethered Rides.

#CarolinaBalloonFest 24Facebook.com/CarolinaBalloonFest Regional Events & Destinations

Gaston Outside

T

here are two kinds of people it seems; those who wait all year to start celebrating Fall, and those who get teary eyed at the idea of Summer coming to a close.

Whichever way we identify, we can all agree that the first few weeks of Autumn are equally important to us both. It’s the season when we step out into the first crisp cool morning, and the season when we are desperate to soak up the last of the warm sun rays. October can boast some of the best weather in a North Carolina year and there is no better way to savor it than to spend it outdoors. In Gaston County, you can easily fill every weekend on your October calendar with events and experiences that all take place out in the fresh Fall air.

the warm weather and the luscious green bounty of Summer, there is still time to get in one last kayak trip out on Lake Wylie, and spend a Saturday morning posing and meditating in Daniel Stowe Botanical Gardens.

Of course, the most magnificent facets of Fall in the Piedmont are the fleeting weeks when the trees begin to turn but haven’t yet gone bare. To observe what is arguably the best view in the region, take a hike up to the top of Crowders Mountain and see the leaves in their red, yellow, and golden majesty, sprawling for miles below. It is an enchanting time of year, especially if you are lucky enough to live in a state that sees the better sides of all four seasons. So in the last few weeks of wonderful weather, Start at the Gastonia farmer’s explore the great outdoors of market, where the tables of plump Gaston County and see all the tomatoes and snap-crisp peppers charms of Autumn in Carolina.

–Kara Werts are turning over to juicy apples, leafy collards, and gourds of every size, shape, and color to adorn your front Gaston Outside is a celebration of the people, places, businesses porch. If those little Autumn features and natural beauty that make throw you instantly into Halloween Gaston County such an amazing mode, take the next weekend to place. From the mountains in the west to the rivers in the east, Lewis Farm in Dallas for a pony ride our county is woven together and to pick that perfect pumpkin with a heritage of hard work for your future Jack-O-Lantern. For and a love for the outdoors. those of you who refuse to part with www.gastonoutside.com

theDestinationMag.com 704-706-2365

25

#165

Learn About The Origin Of America’s Largest-Flowered Plant

A

significant moment in history for the city of Stanley, located northwest of Charlotte, was the discovery of a wild magnolia tree

by French botanist Andre Michaux.

The French Government sent the botanist to document plants and trees in America and send back samples to France for planting in the Royal Gardens. While traveling through Stanley on his way from the North Carolina mountains to South Carolina in 1796, he discovered the Bigleaf Magnolia tree, which has the largest single flower of any native The Brevard Station Museum was founded in 1991 as a repository for historical artifacts and information pertaining to the region around the town of Stanley, North Carolina. The museum displays collections, as well as affording space for a Research and Genealogy Center for visitors to peruse the many reference books of vital records, and family histories, sit at a table and work on their own genealogical research. www.brevardstation.com

26

plant in the nation, displaying leaves over three feet long and one foot wide. Its descendants still thrive in Stanley to this day. The discovery is commemorated in a display at Brevard Station Museum, which also displays collections of railroad memorabilia, sports memorabilia, military artifacts and genealogy and family history research.

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

Digital content is available on desktop, tablet and phone

LKNBrewersTrail.com

LKNBT

LKNBrewersTrail.com is a single source for what is going on at the breweries in the Lake Norman area.

Whats On Tap Whats Going On How To Get There

Bayne Brewing Company

We make a wide variety of craft beers. We are a micro brewery located in Cornelius, and we use only the highest quality ingredients available to brew the finest beers. Looking for a beer in Cornelius?

Come and try a delicious Bayne Brew today!

We now deliver! See our web page for details!

19507 West Catawba Ave Cornelius NC 28031 704.897.6426 baynebrewingcompany.com

D9 Brewing Company

A craft microbrewery located north of Charlotte in Cornelius, North Carolina. From homebrew parties in our neighborhoods, to our first location’s humble one-barrel beginnings, intense local thirst for our Fanatical Ales™ propelled us to open our current 10 barrel production brewery. We are re-imagining some of the world’s most unique and trusted styles of beer.

11138-C Treynorth Dr Cornelius NC 28031 704.457.9368 d9brewing.com

Ghostface Brewing

We offer up to 20 beers & ciders on tap, with a selection of rotating styles, some available on nitro. We also have wine.

We also offer a selection of tasty flatbread pizzas and other special dishes from Davidson Pizza Company located right in our tasting room.

427 East Statesville Ave. Mooresville, NC 28115 704.799.7433 ghostfacebrewing.com

theDestinationMag.com 704-706-2365

27

Destinations Continued From Page 13

of thousands of visitors. Please park by 1pm Saturday and Sunday to attend afternoon ascensions. Rain or shine, Carolina BalloonFest is open. Between launch times enjoy live music, kids play area, festival foods, tether rides, wines & beers, artisan crafts and more. Our event is expected to sell out. Advance tickets on sale in mid-August. www.carolinaballoonfest.com Goodguys Southeastern N a t i o n a l s Fr i O c t 2 1 s t – S u n 23rd 5555 Concord Pkwy S, Concord, NC 28027. Retur ning to Charlotte Motor Speedway with more than 2,500 custom and modified pre-1972 era cars. www.charlottemotorspeedway.com B a r b e c ue Fe s t i v a l F l y- i n Sat Oct 22nd 1673 Aviation Way, Lexington, NC 27292. Fly down to Lexington for some great BBQ! Fly-in Features: Discounted fuel pricing. Free transportation to the festival (with fuel purchase). www.barbecuefestival.com 33rd Annual Barbecue Festival Sat Oct 22nd 2 N Main St, Lexington, NC 27292. Street festival featuring 200+ art & craft exhibitors, seven stages of entertainment, 50-ton pig-themed sand sculpture, antique car show, and many other fantastic special attractions! And, of course, the World’s Best BBQ! At the festival we only serve and celebrate one style of BBQ: Lexington Style. www.barbecuefestival.com

28

Blind Squirrel Annual Oyster Bash & Pig Pickin’ Sat Oct 22nd 12pm–9pm Blind Squirrel Brewery & L odge, 4716 S US Hwy 19E, Newland, NC 28657. The Oyster Bash started in 2005 as a private party for friends and was held at our campground just one mile from our B&B on the North Toe River. After we found out how many oysters our friends could eat we decided to make it a public party and charge for our ocean delights. In 2011, we decided to take a break from the Bash. After resting our oyster shucking hands for a few years, the Oyster Bash is back by popular demand!

Always held on the Saturday leading into Halloween, our Oyster Bash is an annual party that you won’t want to miss! Tickets are pre-sold and reser vations are required. www.blindsquirrelbrewery.com Wilson W hirligig Festival Sat Nov 5th–Sun 6th 200 Nash St SE, Wilson, NC 27893. Two -day event in historic downtown with arts & crafts, live music on multiple states, vendors, WhirliKids zone and more. The festival fills several blocks downtown – all to celebrate the whirligigs and Wilson! www.whirligigfestivalnc.org Veterans Day Special Weekend Wed Nov 9th–Sun 13th 431 Main St, Chimney Rock, NC 28720. Veterans, reservists, retired and active military personnel are our American heroes, so we’d like to honor your service with a FREE visit. Must present militar y ID or proof of ser vice. www.chimneyrockpark.com

Regional Events & Destinations

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

29

“THE MUSEUM THAT RUNS”

Maggie Valley, NC

Wheels Through Time Museum 62 Vintage Lane, Maggie Valley North Carolina 28751

(828) 926-6266

WE ARE NORTH CAROLINA’S

#1 TOYHAULER DEALER!

CONCORD, NC • MARION, NC

tomjohnsoncamping.com

30

Regional Events & Destinations

theDestinationMag.com 704-706-2365

31

HUNTERSVILLE

MOORESVILLE

9230 Beatties Ford Road

515 Rinehardt Road

L ANCASTERS BBQ.COM

lunch

X

dinner

X

full bar

X

good times

OFF I-77 @ EXIT 33 • 117 TRADE COURT (MOORESVILLE) 32 Regional Events & Destinations 7 0 4 7 9 9 1 1 1 0 • www.jeffreyslkn.com