Issue 069 December the Destination Magazine™

the Issue 69 Local & Regional Events & Destinations

Holidays In The Garden Page 17

Que Up Uniquely Carolina Gifts The New Old Town Cornelius

Passport Provides A Winter Of Wine Tastings In Yadkin Valley

Banner Elk: Winter Is Better Here

30 Years Of BBQ Magic

Grandfather Mountain Offers ‘Secret Season’ Passes First Footin’ At Rural Hill

Cruise Through The Last Remaining Covered Bridge Of Its Kind

We Tell You Where To Go! theDestinationMag.com

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Regional Events & Destinations

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December 2016 Issue 69

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The Destination Magazine™ is not a historical document, we will not write about spectacular events you’ve missed.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 Business Development: Lisa Jay Sales: Eric Beach Contributing Writers: Lisa Jay, Craig Distl, Kara Werts, Project 543 Contributing Photographers: Bill Russ, Andrew Zachary Digital Imagery, 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.

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Contents DayTrip Destinations

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Que Up Uniquely Carolina Gifts 13 The New Old Town Cornelius

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Holidays In The Garden

17

Passport Provides A Winter Of Wine Tastings In Yadkin Valley 21 Banner Elk: Winter Is Better Here

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30 Years Of BBQ Magic

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Grandfather Mountain Offers ‘Secret Season’ Passes

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First Footin’ At Rural Hill

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Cruise Through The Last Remaining Covered Bridge Of Its Kind

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We Tell You Where To Go!

Regional Events & Destinations

Stop at the Bob Timberlake Gallery

Visit Lexington, NC for the holidays Dine, Wine, Spend Time!

Take a ride on the Christmas train ...

Visit our award-winning wineries!

Drive over to the RCR Racing Museum

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Destinations

DayTrip Destinations Belmont’s Holiday L ights Fri Nov 18th–Jan. 1st 8am–9am Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden, 6500 S New Hope Rd, Belmont, NC 28 012 . E njoy hor s e - d raw n carriage rides, live music, crafts and more, all while surrounded by botanical displays that glisten among lit pathways. Lights shine at 5pm November 18-Januar y 1. www.go2gaston.org

beautiful Christmas light display.

The gift shop is open and ready to serve hot chocolate. Volunteers are very knowledgeable in Waldensian history. www.townofvaldese.com Zootastic Park’s 7th Annual C h r i s t m a s Wo n d e r l a n d of Lights. Thu Nov 24th– Sun January 1st 2017 Zootastic Park, 448 Pilch Rd, Troutman, NC 28166.

T he Ch r ist ma s Wonderla nd of Lights features over 3.5 Million Lights over a 2 mile drive-through and ends with a light show set to music in our Western Town. We also have Santa Claus joining us every evening, pony rides, petting zoos, concessions, roasting pits for marshmallows, and much much more. www.zootasticpark.com

Christmas Tree Farm Choose & Cut Season Nov 19th–Dec 24th 58 S Main St, Sparta, NC 28675. A trip up the Blue Ridge Mountains to Sparta and Alleghany County is a great way to get in the Christmas spirit. Go for a hay ride, let your children visit with farm animals, or have a cup of steaming hot chocolate while enjoying a relaxing day with one of our loc a l t ree growers. Christmas at Korner’s Folly www.sparta-nc.com F r i N o v 2 5 t h 413 S M a i n S t , Kernersville, NC 27284. All 22 rooms Trail of Lights Tue Nov 22nd – of Korner’s Folly are beautifully Dec 24th 6pm–9pm 401 Church decorated in traditional Victorian St NW, Valdese, NC 28690. In its Christmas decor. Extended hours 12th year, this event continues to and candlelight tours available. be a favorite of the holiday season. www.kornersfolly.org Using more than 100,000 lights, this

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Regional Events & Destinations

Destinations Christmas Tree Village Thu December 1st–Sat 3rd 6pm–9pm Town Green, Davidson, NC. Rotary C lu b of Dav i d s on ho s t s e ve r y year at Christmas in Davidson, organizations and businesses to pa r tner w ith loc a l cha rities to decorate a Christmas tree in efforts to raise funds for their cause. Buy a ticket for $1 and vote for your favorite Christmas tree or trees & affiliated charity. All proceeds will be awarded to the charities based upon their votes. The tree with the highest number of votes will receive an additional donation to the charity they represent. Take a ride on the trolley, stroll down the beautiful picturesque Main Street, start your holiday shopping early at many wonderful and unique

specialty shops in town. Take a journey through the Holiday Village of vendors on the Village Green and enjoy entertainment on the library stage.

Toe R iver St udio Tour Fr i December 2nd–Sun 4th Between Mt. Mitchell and Roan Mountain.

The tour is a free, self-guided trip that will lead you to some unique places in our community, which is situated between Mt. Mitchell and Roan Mountain. Visitors travel t hrough va lleys, pa st st rea ms, across rivers, over hilltops, and experience breathtaking mountain vistas as they visit many out-of-theway studios. Meet the artists, see where they create and where they live. Our small towns also offer an Continued On Page 8

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

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Destinations Continued From Page 7

array of galleries, studios, and other one of Belmont’s greatest annual quaint businesses you won’t want to events with thousands lining the miss. www.toeriverarts.org streets to see the f loats, bands and other entries. Celebrate the Shelton Vineyards Winter season and join the festiv ities.

Warmth Dinner at the Harvest www.montcrossareachamber.com Grill Sat Dec 3rd 6:30pm–9pm. The Harvest Grill at Shelton Vineyards, Holiday Wine Pairing Sat De286 C a ber net L n, Dobson, NC cember 10th 3pm–5pm 6500 S New 27017. O n e n i g h t o n l y ! E n j o y Hope Rd, Belmont, NC 28012. Local C hef Pau l’s ne w w i nte r menu wine expert Kimberly Forrester for the evening along with your of Johnson Brothers Distributors favorite Shelton Vineyards wine. will present an array of wines that www.sheltonvineyards.com will pair with a delicious variety of foods from local vendors. You’re Christmas in Cornelius Sun sure to enjoy this afternoon of wine, December 4th 12pm–6pm 19725 food and great company. Limited Oak St, Cornelius, NC 28031. Join seating, Reservations required by us to shop f rom over 60 lo c a l Dec. 5th @ www.DSBG.org or call artists & craftsmen for that perfect 704-829-1252. one-of-a-kind item for the loved ones on your holiday shopping J o y c e K i l m e r S l i c k r o c k list! Christmas In Cornelius will W i ld e r ne s s G u id e d H i ke also feature an incredible lineup of Series 2016 Thu December 15th holiday performances, food trucks, 9am–6pm Joyce Kilmer-Slickrock kids activities and even a special W i l d e r n e s s , Ro bbi n s v i l l e , NC appea rance from The Big Guy! 28771. The Partners of Joyce Kilmer www.bellalove.com Slickrock Wilderness present our third-year for this hike series! One Belmont Christmas Parade or more members of our nonTue December 6th 4pm–5:30pm profit group will lead each hike.

Main Street & Catawba St, Belmont, Hikes guided into our designated NC 28012. The Christmas Parade is Wilderness A rea such as Joyce

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Regional Events & Destinations

Destinations Kilmer-Slickrock will be limited to no more than 10 hikers per group; reservations are required for these guided hikes. The general public is invited to participate and there is no cost for any of the hikes. The hikes are a great opportunity to enjoy our great outdoors, promote health/ physical fitness and to encourage folks to visit our beautiful area. www.joycekilmerslickrock.org Holiday Open House in Seagrove Sat December 17th–Sun 18th 705 Potters Way Rd, Seagrove, N C 27 3 41. J o i n t h e S e a g r o v e Potters this season for their Annual H o l i d a y O p e n H o u s e . Yo u’ r e invited to celebrate the holiday season on a self-guided potter y

tour. Starting on December 3rd through December 17th the pottery shops of Seagrove have special events planned on Saturdays and Sundays. Each participating shop has listed their event details on our website. Complete information a bout t h i s ye a r ’s Hol iday O p e n H o u s e c a n b e fo u n d a t www.discoverseagrove.com Sparkle & Glow New Year’s Eve Sat December 31st 6pm–9pm 6400 S New Hope Rd, Belmont, NC 28012. Celebrate New Year’s Eve with a family–friendly early event featuring New Year’s Eve traditions f rom a rou nd t he worl d . W i sh lanterns are available for purchase for a luminary release at the end of Continued On Page 10

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Artisan Coffee Artisan Pastries Holiday Pies!

19905 W. Catawba Ave. Cornelius, NC 28031

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Destinations Continued From Page 9

the night for wishes in the New Year! Hair of the Dog Hike 2017 Sun Sparkling wine tasting available. January 1st 11am–12pm 6400 S New www.dsbg.org Hope Rd, Belmont, NC 28012. Kick off the New Year with a refreshing 18th Annual Mt. Olive’s New guided Garden hike on New Year’s Year Pickle Drop Sat December Day! A specialty Bloody Mary bar 31st 5:30pm–7:30pm One Cucumber will be available at noon for an Blvd & Vine St, Mt Olive, NC 28365. additional cost. www.dsbg.org The New Year’s Eve Pickle descends the flagpole at the stroke of 7pm First Footin’ At Rural Hill 2017 “midnight” – that’s 7 o’clock EST, Sun January 1st 10am–2pm Rural which also happens to be midnight Hill, 4431 Neck Rd, Huntersville, NC Greenwich Mean Time. (That way, 28078. Enjoy the holiday’s pleasures we are official, we shout Happy a litt le too muc h? Deter mined New Year!– and we don’t have that this is the yea r to ma ke a to stay up until midnight!) Great change for the better? Why not family fun with live music and free come out to Rural Hill and start refreshments, including Mt. Olive 2016 off right with First Footin’ our pickles! www.mtolivepickles.com annual walk and celebration of Hogmanay, or Scottish New Years?

Continued On Page 12

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Regional Events & Destinations

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Wine - Gifts Gourmet Snacks

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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

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Destinations Continued From Page 10

We do encoura ge ever yone to bring something for the luncheon.

(Remember, its bad luck to show up empty handed) www.ruralhill.net

Don’t hibernate... celebrate! Enjoy the fun side of winter with events that include the Polar Plunge in Chetola Lake, Chilly Chili CookO f f , W i n t e r Fe a s t , W i n t e r Pa w s Blow i n g Roc k W i nter fe st Dog Show, Winter Fashion Show, 2017 Thu Jan 26th - Sun 29th ice car ving, concerts and more!

Main St, Blowing Rock, NC 28605. www.blowingrockwinterfest.com

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Regional Events & Destinations

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

Que Up Uniquely Carolina Gifts

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f your desire is to make a lasting impression with your friends and family this Christmas, give the gift of hometown this year. Bypass the malls and the crowds and the traffic and head to Lexington, NC for your uniquely Carolina holiday shopping experience.

When you think of the best in NC culinary, crafts, confectionaries, ciders, chardonnays and art, I would imagine that many of the names you think of call Lexington, NC home.

A few of the unmistakably NC brands in uptown Lexington are Conrad & Hinkle Food Market, making its iconic pimento cheese since 1919. The Candy Factor y, packed with homemade confections and hundreds of classic candies you grew up with, wherever you grew up. Bull City Ciderworks makes their cider and has a brand-new tasting room in downtown Lexington.

About 40 more quality shops are Continued On Page 30

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 Redbull • $5 Fire Ball

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

$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

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The New Old Town Cornelius

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hen you think of arts and cultural destinations in the U.S., cities like Nashville, New Orleans, Chicago, and Minneapolis come to mind.

Cornelius, N.C. is not among them. in scope, and the community is joining forces to shape it.

But, soon it may be.

How do you transform an area There’s a strong movement underway to make the Old Town into an arts and cultural destinapart of Cornelius a true destination tion? The recipe is simple, but the ingredients are rare. Old Town for arts and culture.

Cornelius has those ingredients: a Old Town Cornelius has long strong sense of community, a rich been used to describe the parts of history, significant local talent, and town east of I-77– original homes a collective appreciation for – and and long-standing small businesses desire to support – the local artists, maintaining pockets of charm and artisans, and small business owners tradition amid rapid town-wide that add richness and depth to the growth and development. With the community. addition of the Antiquity mixed-use Add to those ingredients support neighborhood, along with new businesses and public spaces, from the town government, that Old Town is growing in size and recently approved plans for the Continued On Page 30

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Regional Events & Destinations

EAT . PLAY. RELAX. staycation

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Restaurant Row Craft Brew Farmers Market Shopping cedarsdavidson.com

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Residential & Commercial Real Estate

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Mooresville NC 704 363 0722

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Regional Events & Destinations

Holidays In The Garden

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s a wide-eyed child, seeing the first wreaths being strapped to the light poles on main street in late November made us giddy with anticipation. It was the start of what we considered the best month of the year. Candy canes, ginger bread, putting your masterpiece macaroni ornament on the tree and, oh, bless those Toys-R-Us catalogues… It was all so magical. As adults, we become a little harder to impress. We want the holidays to have grandeur and elegance, like living in “A Miracle on 34th Street.” There should be twinkling lights in every direction, massive trees, hot cocoa, carols, a throne for Santa, and we don’t want to have to park at a mall to get it, right? Well, thank your lucky stars that you live in Charlotte and take your family to Daniel Stowe Botanical Gardens for the enchantment that the holidays have been missing.

have witnessed the magnificence of the massive blooms, towering hedges, structures enveloped in vines, and the most vibrant colors in nature’s collection. This season, with the addition of 600,000 lights and the smell of a crackling fire, i t h a s b e c o m e a Wo n d e r l a n d for the senses. You can explore the numerous holiday displays If you have ever been to Daniel and the lofty, unique Christmas Stowe in the Spring, then you trees bedazzled with blossoms of Continued On Page 18

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Holidays In The Garden Continued From Page 17

Orchids while melodious classic music plays in the background.

If you really want to experience a classic holiday tradition, you can take a horse drawn carriage ride, while letting a cup of hot cocoa warm your taste buds (and your hands!). Of course, Santa Claus himself will be making an appearance. I’ve been told that, having come from the North Pole, Santa quite enjoys Charlotte’s moderate climate and would much rather spend his time here outside, in the midst of such luscious florae.

After you’ve taken a ride in your carriage, been dazzled by the radiance of the shimmering lights, given Santa Claus your very specific list (after convincing him you’ve

been really good all year), take a moment to visit the special model train display, designed by Charlotte’s own Metrolina Model Railroaders.

There’s something about an arid train whistle that brings out the excitable child in us all, and that’s only a small part of the celebration when you are getting your Christmas grandeur in the garden. ~Kara Werts Gaston County is located just west of Charlotte, NC in the Piedmont section of North Carolina and is a terrific place to live, work and visit. Gaston County offers visitors a variety of attractions to enhance your trip including museums, botanical gardens, extreme sports, hiking, dining and entertainment parks, art and history and more. www.go2gaston.org

Ballantyne 704.752.7284 Charlotte 704.527.5783 Mooresville 704.799.2881 Huntersville 704.237.4387 Uptown 980.939.1166

www.duckworths.com 18

Regional Events & Destinations

LIVE MUSIC Wednesday thru Saturday

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Conveniently located for all LKN visitors.

Perfect for the entire family.

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Just west of I-77 exit 28

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Go experience Christmas in Gaston County

Visit go2gaston.org/christmas for a list of all our holiday events. Let us help you plan your next weekend getaway and connect you with the numerous natural assets Gaston County has to offer. Stop by our Visitors Center at 620 North Main Street in Belmont or call us today for a FREE Visitors Guide.

Go Gaston. Get Outside.

620 N. Main St. | Belmont, NC | 800-849-9994 | 704-825-4044 20 Regional #go2gaston | go2gaston.org | Events & Destinations

Passport Provides A Winter Of Wine Tastings In Yadkin Valley

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a m p l e y o u r w a y t h r o u g h Round Peak, Skull Camp, Slightly North Carolina’s Yadkin Valley Askew and Stony Knoll. wine country this winter with “It’s a fun way for people to the seventh annual Winter Wine celebrate winter – a treasure map Passport. guiding them to the Surry County Beginning Nov. 25 and continuing wineries,” says Louis Jeroslow, through March 19, the Winter Wine winemaker at Elkin Creek Vineyard.

Passport provides a tasting at each “Enjoy visiting wineries, seeing of 10 Yadkin Valley wineries, along beautiful vineyards and spending with a handcrafted wine charm at time with new friends met along each of the wineries. The passport the way.” can also be used for discounts at 18 businesses in wine countr y, Pa s s p o r t s a r e o n s a l e n o w including restaurants, shops and through the end of the program. The passport price is $55 for individuals lodging. or $95 for couples. Passports are Food-and-wine weekends take available at participating wineries place once a month in Januar y, and at www.SurryWineries.com.

February and March. During these “We encourage people to buy weekends, select wineries prepare a dish that either incorporates their them early, so they have as much wine as an ingredient or pairs well flexibility as possible to enjoy every with a certain wine. Guests receive winer y on their own schedule,” says Pat Colwell, owner of Carolina recipes for the featured dishes.

Heritage Vineyard & Winery.

This winter ’s participating For more information on the wineries are: Adagio, Brushy Winter Wine Passport program, call (336) 366-3301 or visit: Mountain, Carolina Heritage, Elkin www.SurryWineries.com Creek, Grassy Creek, Roaring River,

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Banner Elk: Winter Is Better Here

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orth Carolina’s High Country is a great escape any time of year, but winter is especially magical. And when it comes to choosing a winter destination in the NC mountains, Banner Elk just might be the ideal spot.

If shopping is your sport of choice, Banner Elk boasts a variety of boutiques and retail options. Or for a romantic day of exploring, vineyards such as Banner Elk Winery, Linville Fa l l s W i n e r y a n d G r a n d f a t h e r Banner Elk greets travelers with Vineyard and Winery are within a a mix of cozy lodging, outdoor short drive. activities and great restaurants.

It’s place that has both small town There are three craft breweries charm and big city amenities. in and around Banner Elk. Flat Top Brewing Co., located on Main Street The two largest winter sports East, always features a winter brew. venues in the South – Beech Moun- Just up the mountain is Beech tain Resort and Sugar Mountain Re- Mountain Brewing Co., nestled in sort – are located within 15 minutes the alpine village at the base of the of Banner Elk’s lone stoplight. Both Beech Mountain ski slopes. And a resorts offers skiing, snowboarding, scenic country drive leads to Blind ice skating and snowtubing. There’s Squirrel Brewery in nearby Plumtree. even a free youth sledding hill in the town of Beech Mountain.

Sometimes, the best thing about a winter getaway is spending time in And for travelers who like the your lodging of choice, and Banner mountains but not the snow, there’s Elk has a banner selection. Cozy always winter hiking and the famous cabins. Upscale condos. Friendly Mile High Swinging Bridge at nearby bed-and-breakfast inns. Comfortable Grandfather Mountain. hotels. Spacious vacation homes.

When the sun goes down, Banner Elk’s reputation as a foodie hotspot heats up. There are more than a dozen restaurants within this town of just 1,067 residents. Culinary choices range from contemporary to traditional, with ever ything from white tablecloth fine dining to Southern comfort food. Ethnic cuisine runs the gamut from Italian to Cajun to Mexican to Vietnamese.

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Many of Banner Elk’s lodging options feature a mountain motif and most have a fireplace for making warm memories on cold winter nights.

Come see why “Winter is better here” in Banner Elk. To plan a trip, visit www.BannerElk.com or call toll-free 844-824-6777.

Regional Events & Destinations

Decompression Destinations

30 Years Of BBQ Magic

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nyone who is a born and raised Carolinian knows a few (unofficial) things to be true. First of all, it doesn’t matter that the speedway has a Charlotte address- Mooresville is Race City, USA . S e cond l y, w hen you a re visiting Race City, you have to find yourself some real Carolina BBQ. The only restaurant recommendations you can trust are the ones that come from someone with a sing-song southern accent that refers to the restaurant as “that joint,” because that is where the ma gic w ill be. For the pa st 30 years, “that joint” has, and will continue to be, Lancaster’s BBQ. The trick to being a restaurant legacy is having the perfect balance of tradition, consistently excellent food, and a hint of eccentricity. So, in a place where you can watch a Panther’s game, eat some perfect pulled pork, while sitting inside a school bus (yes, I actually mean “inside a school bus”) then you can understand why Lancaster’s is a landmark in this great state. Keeping up the unique charm, the high walls are covered in hoods and bumpers

from some of the great NASCAR legends, appealing to the nostalgic many that frequent the joint.

Although the real reason for the “many that frequent” is the standard setting BBQ. Word of advice, if what you order isn’t a something “platter” you are doing it wrong. Try again.

Even as amazing as their sliced brisket, ribs, catfish, and pulled pork are on their own, it would be a travesty not to punctuate it with collard greens. Remember, this is North Carolina- vinegar sauce is the only sauce and mac and cheese is a vegetable - don’t bother arguing.

If you have somehow never made it to L ancaster ’s before, or if you are a regular, stop by in December and help them celebrate 30 years of good times, great food, and pure Carolina tradition. Lucky for Lake Norman, we have “that joint,” where no one judges you for ordering a beer and a sweet tea at the same time. ~Kara Werts Lancaster’s Eastern Style BBQ Mooresville – Huntersville www.lancastersbbq.com

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Yadkin Valley Winter Wine

Passport Adagio | Brushy Mountain | Carolina Heritage Elkin Creek | Grassy Creek | Round Peak | Scull Camp Slightly Askew | Stony Knoll | Roaring River

November 25, 2016 – March 18, 2017

Tastings at 10 Participating Wineries Food & Wine Pairing Experiences and Live Music Handmade Wine Glass Charm from each Winery/Brewery Discounts at Merchants, Restaurants & Lodging

$55 Individual | $95 Couple

Purchase Passports Online at 24

SurryWineries.com Regional Events & Destinations

Grandfather Mountain Offers ‘Secret Season’ Passes

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communications for the Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Association, the nonprofit organization that oversees the popular Linville travel attraction and nature preser ve.

“Rime ice coats the Mile High The Secret Season Pass allows Swinging Bridge, the otters frolic in passholders unlimited access to the their frozen pond, and the mountain mountain Nov. 1 through April 30, itself seems exceptionally peaceful.”

2017, for $32 (plus tax) for adults — less than the price of two regular The Secret Season passes are tickets. A child’s Secret Season pass now available at the Grandfather (ages 4 to 12) is $18 plus tax.

Mountain Entrance Gate and are valid through April 30, 2017.

A group pass, good for up to six Grandfather Mountain is open people traveling in the same vehicle, sells for $90 plus tax and pays for from 9am to 5pm ever y day in winter, weather permitting, except itself on the first visit.

Thanksgiving and Christmas. Park T h e p a s s a l l o w s g u e s t s t o opening is delayed until all roads and e x p e r i e n c e t h e w o n d e r s o f paths can be cleared of snow and Grandfather Mountain without the ice, but a phone call to the entrance bustle of spring, summer and fall. gate at (828) 733-4337 can confirm Whether your interest is snapping the day’s conditions and set the stage shots of snow-dusted evergreens, for a memorable outing. sipping soup from Mildred’s Grill or just savoring the solitude, the Secret Season Pass is the most affordable The not-for-profit Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundaway to do it. tion strives to inspire conservation he turn of the calendar signals a new season on Grandfather Mountain — and the return of a bargain allowing unlimited access to the park for six months.

“Grandfather Mountain becomes a veritable winter wonderland during the colder months,” said Frank Ruggiero, director of marketing and

of the natural world by helping guests explore, understand and value the wonders of Grandfather Mountain. For information, visit www.grandfather.com

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First Footin’ At Rural Hill

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njoy the holiday’s pleasures a little too much? Stuffed to the gills from all those parties?

Determined that this is the year to make a change for the better? Why not come out to Rural Hill and start 2017 off right with First Footin’ our annual walk and celebration of Hogmanay, or Scottish New Years?

The Tradition

Fo l l o w i n g t h e P r o t e s t a n t Reformation in Scotland in the latter half of the sixteenth century, it was considered irreverent to celebrate dates of religious importance.

Thus, merriment and celebrations were reser ved for Hogmanay (pronounced Hog-muh-nay,) this important part of the year combined both New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day with a celebration of good will and good fortune. The use of the term “first footin’,” according to legend, is as follows: Fortune would smile on the household if the first person to set foot in the doorway on the New Year was a young man; presumably t a l l , h a n d s o m e , h e a l t h y, d a r k haired, dark eyed, and bearing gifts (such as a lump of coal for the fire.) Today it does no harm if the first footer carries a bottle of his best and favorite beverage to offer his host a drink and a toast, stating “Lang may your lum reek.”

This traditional Scottish salutation wishes its recipient long life and prosperity. It literally means “long may your chimney smoke.”

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Several towns throughout the hillsides of Scotland continue an age old annual ritual of walking the town limits to restate or reclaim the boundaries of the township.

These traditions have been adopted as part of the Rural Hill Hogmanay (Scottish New Year) celebration, known simply as “First Footin’”. Traditionally, the fulfillments of Hogmanay’s rituals and folklore have assured good crops, good health, and good fortune in the coming year.

The Walk

Wear good walking shoes and appropriate clothing for the season.

This will be a vigorous walk around the farm’s 2.25 mile trail, event, and historic sites, stopping along the way to discuss history and folklore.

If you do not think you are physically able to do the walk, please come anyway. It’s a great time for fellowship at the Rural Retreat Cabin Site, which will be open for this occasion.

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This event is FREE and open to all, but we do encourage everyone to bring something for the luncheon.

(Remember, its bad luck to show up empty handed) Schedule 11:00 – Step off for the First Footin’ Walk around the farm grounds 12:00 – Stone Soup Blessing and Gathering

CELEBRATE THE NEW YEAR WITH

HISTORIC RURAL HILL! FREE TO THE PUBLIC, DETAILS AT

Historic Rural Hill 4431 Neck Rd, Huntersville, NC 28078 www.ruralhill.net

WWW.RURALHILL.COM 4431 NECK ROAD HUNTERSVILLE, NC

WE ARE NORTH CAROLINA’S

#1 TOYHAULER DEALER!

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#81 Cruise Through The Last Remaining Covered Bridge Of Its Kind

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overed bridges have aided and fascinated travelers since the founding of the United States, and visitors searching for unique bridges will find a one-of-its-kind bridge in North Carolina, a state that remains popular for travelers interested in histor y. Designated as a National Civil Engineering Landmark in 2001, the Bunker Hill Covered Bridge is the only remaining wooden example of the Improved Lattice Truss patented by Civil War engineer General Herman Haupt.

The bridge was built in 1895 and covered with a 90-foot roof in 1900.

In 1921 its wooden roof was covered with tin shingles. In 1985 it was donated to the Catawba County Historical Association and restored in 1994. One of only two remaining covered bridges in North Carolina, the historic Bunker Hill Covered Bridge is located in Claremont, near Hickory. The state’s other covered bridge is the Pisgah Covered Bridge

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near Asheboro. The Pisgah Covered Bridge was built in 1911 and crosses the West Fork Branch of the Little River within the Uwharrie National Forest. The Pisgah Bridge is a great spot for photography, picnics and nature walks along the surrounding quarter-mile walking trail.

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

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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

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Old Town Continued From Page 14

Que Up Carolina Continued From Page 13

located in the heart of uptown.

Army Navy, The Backyard Retreat, Fancy Pastry Shop, Missions Pottery and Lanier’s Hardware just to name a few.

Cornelius Arts and Community Center in Old Town and is developing plans for an entire arts district overlay there, and boom – you have the interest, buy-in, and infrastructure to make something truly unique.

A driving for ce behind this movement is OTC, an organization focused on bringing community members together by planning and facilitating cultural events. The group’s website, oldtowncornelius. com, is a key arts resource for the community, spotlighting local artists, maintaining a comprehensive events calendar, and featuring news of arts and cultural developments and happenings. “ We ’ r e g i v i n g p e o p l e a rallying point,” OTC Founder Case Warnemunde said. “Like a local sports team, that brings people together across boundaries, we are bringing people together in support of the people, the talent, the contributions that make this community so unique.” ~ Christina Ritchie Rogers

Bob Timberlake Gallery, yes, Bob is a Lexington native and is known internationally for his depiction of the simple life in NC. His gallery is a truly unique destination.

Childress Vineyards, one of the showcase vineyards in the southeast is located just on the edge of town.

They offer estate wines, fine casual dining and an overwhelming gift shop. If you have any NASCAR fans on your shopping list make sure to ask your hostess how to get to the RCR Museum.

Treat yourself and take the short drive down the road to experience the uniquely Carolina gifts you will find in uptown Lexington. And don’t forget as you are browsing all the treasures, you do not have to give all the finds away, after all you deserve a little treat too.

Lexington Tourism Authority & Visitors Center 2 North Main Street Lexington, NC 27292 866-604-2389 www.visitlexingtonnc.com

A destination for culture of all kinds: from boutique stores and bottle shops, to farm-to-fork restaurants and live music venues. www.oldtowncornelius.com

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HAVE A SAFE AND MERRY CHRISTMAS TUESDAY, DECEMBER 13TH SPECIAL VIP NIGHT FOR STATESVILLE H.O.G. CHAPTER SPECIAL NIGHT JUST FOR YOU

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SHOP UNTIL YOU DROP WE WILL BE OPEN FRIDAY DECEMBER 16TH FROM 6-9PM. YOUR SPECIAL SHOPPING NIGHT. WINE AND REFRESHMENTS WILL BE SERVED. CLOSING AT 3PM DECEMBER 24TH AND CLOSED DECEMBER 25TH theDestinationMag.com 704-706-2365

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HUNTERSVILLE

MOORESVILLE

9230 Beatties Ford Road

515 Rinehardt Road

L ANCASTERS BBQ.COM

lunch

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dinner

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full bar

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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