Issue 071 February the Destination Magazine™

the Issue 71 Local & Regional Events & Destinations

It’s Baaack: Totally ’80s Retro Ski Weekend Page 16

Winter Weekend In The Mountains Is Calling You Buildings, Beauty And Barbecue In Shelby Pub House, Music House Romantic Gaston

Sip And Seek Bridal Show Ghostface Brewing

Latta Celtic Festival

We Tell You Where To Go! theDestinationMag com .

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Regional Events & Destinations

Go paddle the blueways at US National Whitewater Center

For the outdoor enthusiast in all of us, Gaston County offers amazing blueways as well as a wide array of other recreational activities. Let us help you plan your next weekend getaway and connect you with our County’s numerous natural assets. Stop by our Visitors Center 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 | go2gaston.org | 3 theDestinationMag.com 704-706-2365 #go2gaston

February 2017 Issue 71

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The Destination Magazine™ is not a historical document, we will not write about spectacular events you’ve missed.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 Contributing Writers: Lisa Jay, Craig Distl, Kara Werts, Project 543, Erica Madden, Ed Phillips, Adé Herbert Contributing Photographers: Bill Russ, Andrew Zachary Digital Imagery, Olivia Binstead, Madison Hedrick, Ed Phillips 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 ©2017 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 A Winter Weekend In The Mountains Is Calling You Pub House, Music House: Transformation At OTPH It’s Baaack: Totally ’80s Retro Ski Weekend Romantic Gaston Sip And Seek Bridal Show Ghostface Brewing Latta Celtic Festival & Celtic Music Night Buildings, Beauty And Barbecue In Shelby See The Skyscraper That Inspired The Empire State Building

We Tell You Where To Go!

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Yadkin Valley Winter Wine

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

Valid Through 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

SurryWineries.com

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Destinations

DayTrip Destinations W i n t e r W i n e Pa s s p o r t Now–Mar ch 18, 2017. Tastings at 10 wineries and a brewer y in the Yadkin Valley Wine Region. www.surrywineries.com “Second Look: Recycled for the Sake of Art” Januar y 19, 2017–April 1, 2017. Theatre Art Galleries–220 E Commerce Ave, High Point, NC 27260. The Main Gallery hosts a “Second Look: Recycled for the Sake of Art,” a group show featuring the work of Kirkland Smith, Miles Pur vis, Br yant Holsenbeck, and Catherine Edgerton. www.tagart.org Wine About Winter February 3, 2017 Downtown Salisbur y Wine About Winter tickets include: one (1) souvenir wine glass one (1) Sommelier Corkscrew walking map wristband. Combine ‘ Wine About Winter ’ tickets with your Salisbur y-Rowan County hotel or B&B stay and save! Book an overnight stay during WAW 2017 in Salisbury-Rowan County and get two (2) FREE tickets ($45 value). www.visitsalisburync.com

13th Annual Krispy Kreme C h a l l e n g e Febr uar y 4, 2017 @ 8am–1pm North Carolina State University Belltower–2011 Hillsborough St, Raleigh, NC 27607.

The mantra of the Krispy Kreme Challenge epitomizes the test of physical fitness and gastrointestinal fortitude. What started as a challenge among ten friends has transformed into a nationally publicized charity race, and the number one tradition to complete before graduating from North Carolina State University. All proceeds from the Krispy Kreme Challenge are donated to the N.C. Children’s Hospital so that its staff can continue to provide the best care and facilities for their patients.

Participants begin the Challenge at the Memorial Belltower on the NCSU campus. Runners then travel 2.5 miles through historic downtown Raleigh to the Krispy Kreme located at the intersection of Peace and Person St., where they attempt to consume one dozen original glazed doughnuts.

The hardest part of the Challenge awaits them as they run 2.5 miles back to the Memorial Belltower. www.krispykremechallenge.com

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Destinations Build Your Own Bordeaux!

February 10, 2017 @ 7pm–10pm Print Works Bistro 704 Green Valley Rd Greensboro, NC 27408. During a sumptuous dinner, paired with four fine Trinchero varietal wines, guests will learn how master blenders hone their craf t and palate to create a final cuvée. The tasting will be guided by Certified Wine Educator and Advanced Sommelier Julia Hunt and Josh Beasley with Trinchero Napa Valley. www.printworksbistro.com Sapphire Valley Outhouse Race February 11, 2017 @ 11am– 4pm 217 Sapphire Rd Sapphire, NC 28774. Toward the end of each ski season we all get a little restless and look for a bit of excitement,

so we decided to do what comes naturally… race outhouses on ski’s down a hill! Crazy? Maybe. Dangerous? Perhaps. Fun? Without a doubt!

For a good cause? Definitely! This is an event to raise funds to sponsor ski scholarships for children that don’t have the opportunity to attend our after school ski programs. www.skisapphirevalley.com Bucky Covington Is Coming To The Barn February 11, 2017 152 Heritage Farm Ln, Dobson, NC 27017. Have you heard Bucky ’s newest song ‘Happy Man’? He will be singing it at the barn on Feb 11th– acoustic style–in our intimate barn setting. Whether you’re coming with your friends or coming with your love, this is a night you don’t want Continued On Page 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.

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

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Destinations Continued From Page 7

to miss! Tickets are only $35–have you gotten yours yet?! Follow the link below to get your tickets! Must be 21+ to attend. Food trucks, Skull Camp Brewery, Round Peak Winery and more will be at the barn–so come out and make a night of it! www.thebarnatheritagefarm.com Cherokee Heritage Day February 11, 2017. Museum of the Cherokee Indian 598 Tsali Blvd Cherokee, NC 28719. Hands on activities, storytelling, dance, and cultural demonstrations will be offered from 11am—5pm. Each month we will feature a theme different, so you can come on a regular basis and continue to learn about the Cherokee histor y and culture. www.visitcherokeenc.com Chimney Rock Valentine’s Day Special February 11, 2017–February 14, 2017 Chimney Rock - 431 Main St, Chimney Rock, NC 28720. Find romance a top the summit of the rock at Chimney Rock State Park and take in the 75-Mile breathtaking view. Buy one admission ticket and enjoy a second ticket FREE during the four day special Valentine’s Day celebration. Enjoy a weekend hike with this special admission and check out Hickory Nut Falls during the winter season. www.chimneyrockpark.com Hearts-A-Bustin’ 5K February 11, 2017 @ 8am–11am Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden–6500 S New Hope Rd, Belmont, NC 28012. Celebrate Valentine’s Day weekend with a festive 5K trail run at the Garden.

The race will start at 9am at the Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden’s

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Persimmon Trail and continue through the Carolina Thread Trail’s Seven Oak’s Preserve Trail. (Trail run is a loop). Proceeds benefit the Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden.

Registration is being held until February 9, 2017 or until the race is full. Race is limited to the first 250 participants. There are individual registration prices as well as couple registration prices available. Couples can be friends, spouses, significant others, best friends, co-workers, siblings, etc. Run with a buddy or challenge yourself! Hearts-a-Bustin’ is the common name for the Euonymusamericanusa plant native to the Southeastern US and we think that makes the perfect plant mascot for this race! www.dsbg.org Fo r t h e L o v e o f W i n e & Chocolate February 18, 2017–February 19, 2017. South Creek Winery - 2240 S Creek Rd, Nebo, NC 28761.

A new season begins as we re-open after a long winters pause! Join us in the tasting room for our perfect pairings of wine & chocolates on 18th & 19th. Amore’ in a bottle and complimentary chocolates at the bar with your tasting. Take some love home with our custom wine baskets.

It’s a whole weekend of love! www.southcreekwinery.com Mayodan Mountain Bike Classic February 18, 2017. Farris M e m o r i a l Pa r k 2 8 7 8 Pa r k R d Mayodan, NC 27027. Come join us for the first race ever at the Farris Memorial Park in beautiful Mayodan, NC. This race consists of a 3-mile loop that includes climbing, berms and rock gardens to test your skills. Experts will

Regional Events & Destinations

Destinations do 5 laps, Sport will do 4 laps and Beginners 3 laps and Juniors will do 2-3 laps. There will be prizes 3-deep and there will be concession stand with coffee, hot chocolate, snacks and more. www.racinginthewoods.com Totally 80s Retro Ski Weekend Februar y 23, 2017–Februar y 26, 2017 Beech Mountain Resort–1007 Beech Mountain Pkwy, Beech Mountain, NC 28604.

Each February, the town of Beech Mountain and Beech Mountain Resort come together to create a righteously rad celebration of all things 1980s. This unparalleled experience includes live 80s

music nightly, retro skiing daily, and plenty of throwback activities in between. Hop in our “ski slope time machine” to revisit the New Wave era of big hair, leg warmers, bandanas and Members Only jackets. Oh yeah–don’t forget ski suits with shoulder pads! Now in its sixth year, the weekend has become so epic we added a day.

You can now bend the spacetime continuum for four days. www.beechmountainresort.com

Continued On Page 10

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Destinations Continued From Page 9

8th Annual Yadkin Winter Reds February 25, 2017–February 2 6 , 2 0 1 7 A l l Ya d k i n C o u n t y Wineries. Looking for a day trip or a weekend getaway? Then come visit Yadkin County and enjoy the annual Yadkin Winter Reds event.

All Yadkin County wineries will feature their “Winter Red” (2oz. pour) paired with a 3oz. ser ving of a tasty food item. Each ticket holder will be assigned to a starting winery where you will receive your souvenir glass and a map. Ticket is good for both days –one visit per winery. New this year–Winter Reds Wine Dinner & Performances at the Cultural Arts Center. Wine Dinners will be held at Flint Hill Vineyards on Friday night. www.visityadkin.com Mardi Gras, The Fire Show February 26, 2017. Castle McCulloch 3925 Kivett Dr Jamestown, NC 27282. Feel the heat of Carnevale with our special fire show featuring sizzling entertainment and enticing costumes at the 15th Annual Mardi Gras of the Carolinas! Bring your bare as you dare attitude with you and prepare to mix, mingle, see and be seen. Roam the grounds of

Castle McCulloch, an almost 200 year old castle, while indulging in live music, fire performances, amazing DJs and other fantastic entertainment. Located in the heart of North Carolina, Jamestown is sure to light up the night. www.castlemcculloch.com C a p e Fe a r B e e r & W i n e Festival March 4, 2017 @ 12pm– 5pm Wilmington Convention Center - 515 Nutt St, Wilmington, NC 28401. Wilmington, NC will be hosting their seventh annual beer and wine festival at the Wilmington Convention Center on 4 Mar ch 2017. This 30,000 square foot venue is a first class, state of the art building located at 515 Nutt Street, Wilmington, NC 28401 in the city’s historic district on the Cape Fear River waterfront.

The festival will focus on 50+ American craft micro breweries and wineries with over 125 beers and wines being offered. The Cape Fear Beer and Wine Festival will also feature live music, silent auction and other fun things to do. www.beerarmy.org/capefear Continued On Page 12

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Destinations Continued From Page 10

Sip & Seek Bridal Show March 5, 2017 @ 1pm–4pm Historic Rural Hill 4431 Neck Rd, Huntersville, NC 28078. The Sip & Seek Bridal Show will be an intimate setting for couples and vendors to meet while enjoying complementar y wine, food and door prizes. You’ll also have the chance to tour our beautiful historic site and wedding venue! With 30+ of the area’s top vendors in attendance, couples will have the opportunity to book their favorites, with some vendors offering discounts for day- ofshow bookings. This exclusive wedding-style event is free to attend with preregistration through EventBrite or $5 cash at the door. www.ruralhill.net

you can celebrate all things Celtic by enjoying live music, food and beer vendors, arts and crafts vendors, historic Celtic warriors and heritage demonstrations.

Children will enjoy stor y times, dancing, visiting the farm animals.

Latta Celtic Festival March 11, 2017–March 12, 2017. 5225 Sample Rd, Huntersville, NC 28078. This is it, the event you’ve b e e n w a i t i n g a l l y e a r f o r, i t ’ s back… The Latta Celtic Festival.

For the last five years spectators from near and far have made their way to Historic Latta Plantation in celebration of the Celtic culture James L atta once hailed from.

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A Winter Weekend In The Mountains Is Calling You

T

he High Countr y region of North Carolina transforms into a winter wonderland with mountains blanketed by snow.

Get ready for your weekend of adventure – or relaxation.

Whether you stay in the town of Beech Mountain, or 15 minutes away in Banner Elk, Beech Mountain Resort is the center of the action for winter fun. It’s the highest ski resort in the East, offering trails for all ski levels, and a newly opened terrain park for snowboarders.

The adventure on the slopes also includes tubing, and there’s an outdoor ice skating rink.

Your activities at the resort don’t have to all be outdoors. The sprawling complex is home to 5506’ Skybar, where you can sip drinks from atop the mountain, and Beech Mountain Brewing Co., a full-service craft brewery.

After spending a day playing in the snow, you deserve to relax Continued On Page 30

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Pub House, Music House: Transformation At OTPH

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bands began to filter in as well, bringing their respective cadre of followers with them. For our first shows there, we played to some familiar faces–folks who either knew us personally or saw us at other local events. They were the people that would still support us even if we weren’t that good (and believe me, There’s magic brewing at Old I think everyone need some folks like that in their life!).

Town Public House, folks. here is a special relationship that exists between an artist and an audience. Each entity feeds off the other’s energy in a circular, call-and-responselike dance. And the tighter the relationship becomes between the two, the more magic is created.

Recently, my band (The Hawthornes) played a couple of gigs at OTPH and I also have watched a couple of other shows there, and I’ve discovered something: What I once thought of as a cool, laid back, venue in which to catch up with friends is still that, but it has an alter ego that comes out once a band sets up. And that alter ego is all about some live music.

We began playing at OTPH shortly after it opened and while it was still building its community of regulars. During that time a few

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I see OTPH as a music venue now, as much as anything else. Don’t get me wrong, if there’s no band there, it still holds that laid-back charm that attracted most people to come and hang out in the first place.

But once a band plugs in, the place transforms.

It’s not just the bands that have created that vibe, though. It’s the community of people that support the place–those who have been there since the beginning, as well as those who only recently heard about it and want to add to the magic.

Regional Events & Destinations

Fed by shared interest, the community is growing organically.

More people are showing up to see the music. And with more people there, they are feeding the musicians with what they need to create more moments on stage. Which, in turn, attracts more people…and, you get where I’m heading with this.

We’re building something at OTPH, y’all… Artist and audience alike. And it’s a beautiful thing to watch grow. Be cool and until next time…let the music play!

–Adé Herbert 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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It’s Baaack: Totally ’80s Retro Ski Weekend

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rom material girls to men without hats, ever yone is invited to the sixth annual Totally ’80s Retro Ski Weekend at Beech Mountain, Feb. 23-26. Enjoy the 1980s all over again during a popular weekend that has grown into four days of retro awesomeness.

The town of Beech Mountain combines with Beech Mountain Resort to create a unique experience that includes retro ski fashions on the slopes, live ’80s music throughout town, and fun events like a Rubik’s Cube competition and the everpopular Totally Retro Apparel Contest.

decade who like to relive it, and there are people who weren’t alive who just really like the music, the clothing and the movies. It was a fun, upbeat era in American history.”

Beech Mountain’s celebration of that upbeat era begins Thursday evening with power rock from Rockzilla at Famous Fast Eddie’s. The music continues Friday night with Charlotte retro band Cassette Rewind at the Mile High Tavern. On Saturday night, the fun shifts to the ski resort with a concert dance party featuring The Breakfast Club at the Beech Tree Bar & Grille. Saturday night is also when the annual $500 Totally Retro Apparel Contest takes place.

“People love that era,” says Kate Gavenus, executive director for Throughout the weekend there Beech Mountain tourism. “There are people who were alive during that are trivia contests, retro karaoke,

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Regional Events & Destinations

To t a l l y Tu b u l a r S n o w Tu b i n g , appearances by the time machine bear, plus a Ms. Pac Man contest.

New this year is an ’80s ski apparel parade Friday afternoon at 4 p.m. It is open to all and participants need to meet at the top of the mountain at 3:45pm.

Guest appearances are in the works, and ever yone is strongly encouraged to wear 80’s ski garb on the slopes and retro fashions off the slopes. Only Beech Mountain takes you back to a time when ski clothes featured shoulder pads, rock stars wore spandex, and video killed the radio star.

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Romantic Gaston

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alentine’s Day is right around the corner and most of us are looking for a unique way to celebrate with that special someone.

Your know, that one-of-a-kind activity that says I’ve been thinking about this for months and today is all about us. We’ve got you covered in Gaston County. From a candlelit dinner to more unconventional activities, Gaston County offers just the right mix of romance and recreation.

Choose from these outdoor and culinary adventures to win the heart and taste buds of your partner.

Paddle the South Fork River For an afternoon of exclusive one-on-one time, paddle the calm waters of the South Fork River. From two public launch points around Cramerton’s Goat Island, you can paddle out and back up to four miles.

Boat rentals are available at The Floating Goat. Be sure to call ahead to reser ve your boats and while you’re downtown, pick up a picnic lunch at Doffer’s Canteen, known for rice bowls, tacos, and great service.

with the 1.5-mile Rankin Lake loop.

Don’t be late for your reservation at Webb Custom Kitchen, a historic downtown movie theater restored to its former Art-Deco elegance.

Custom cocktails, craf t beers, and premium wines, along with specialties like braised pork belly, slow-roasted prime rib, and centercut filet are served while vintage movies play on the screen above the showcase kitchen. For Valentine’s Day brownie points, reserve a table on the balcony.

Shred Some Singletrack For the adrenaline-fueled couple, Gaston’s mountain biking trails offer miles and climbs reminiscent of the western North Carolina mountains.

From the twisty singletrack of George Poston Park to more than 30 miles of Walk the Highland Rail Trail trails at the U.S. National Whitewater Downtown Gastonia is home Center USNWC, the only challenge base for a winning combination of with this date is choosing a place greenway stroll and dinner at one to ride. of the hottest new restaurants in Gaston County. A 1.6-mile stretch of Run the Hearts-a-Bustin’ 5K the Carolina Thread Trail constructed Start off your Valentine’s Day along the historic Carolina and celebration on February 11 with a Northwestern Railway, the Highland run through Daniel Stowe Botanical Rail Trail is flat, paved and perfect for Garden. The Hearts-a-Bustin’ 5K biking, dog walking, and strolling loops runners through the garden hand-in-hand. Extend your trip on the Persimmon and Seven Oaks Continued On Page 20

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LIVE MUSIC Wednesday thru Saturday

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Romantic Gaston Continued From Page 18

Preserve Trails. Participants enjoy garden admission and one guest pass with race entry. Overall winners get an annual family membership and an orchid from the garden conservatory.

Explore Belmont Combine a Valentine’s Day walk or run with shopping along Belmont’s 1.75-mile downtown loop.

Between legs of your run, stop in at The Station, Main Street Cycle’s adjacent taproom, for a local brew; Walk and Run Belmont for the latest running gear and tips; and Tastebuds Popcorn to choose from flavors you’d never even imagine existed, like cilantro lime, maple bacon, banana pudding, and strawberry lemonade.

Fling Discs on Goat Island The 18-hole disc golf course on Goat Island is surrounded by the South Fork River with heavily treed fair ways and a pedestrian bridge connecting to the restaurants and coffee shops of downtown Cramerton, all ingredients for a romantic, active Valentine’s Day outdoors.

Tour the Catawba River Tree Canopy What better way to build trust than navigating aerial obstacles and flying through the tree canopy at high rates of speed 60 feet in the air? The perfect Valentine’s Day teamwork test is the USNWC zipline and adventure course. Zip more than 1,500 feet between platforms on ropes courses designed to challenge you physically and mentally. Another

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option is to reserve a spot on the Canopy Tour, a three to four hour zip-climb-rappel adventure along the banks of the Catawba River and historic Tuckaseegee Ford Trail.

Drop a Line at Rankin Lake Park Fo r s o l i t u d e - s e e k e r s , a n afternoon of fishing at Gastonia’s 80-acre Rankin Lake Park might be just the Valentine’s Day hangout for you. The paved greenway surrounding the lake, along with boardwalk bridges and two piers, provide ample access to designated fishing areas. There’s a nominal fishing fee ($1-3) and a tackle loaner program if you need to borrow a rod and reel.

From competitive events to outdoor sports and downtown dining, there’s a romantic adventure awaiting you in Gaston. Now pop the question—not that question, the “Want-to-hang-out-on-Valentine’sDay?” question—and plan that special holiday for you and your sweetie in Gaston County.

RootsRated for Gaston County Gov.

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

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Regional Events & Destinations

Sip And Seek Bridal Show

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ongratulations on your engagement and upcoming wedding!

Join us at Rural Hill for wedding inspiration as we host our 4th Annual Bridal Show on Sunday, March 5th from 1-4pm.

wedding venue! With 30+ of the area’s top vendors in attendance, couples will have the opportunity to book their favorites, with some vendors offering discounts for day-of-show bookings.

This exclusive wedding-style The Sip & Seek Bridal Show will event is free to attend with preregbe an intimate setting for couples istration through EventBrite or $5 and vendors to meet while enjoying cash at the door. complementary wine, food and door Historic Rural Hill prizes. You’ll also have the chance 4431 Neck Rd, Huntersville, NC to tour our beautiful historic site and www.ruralhill.net

Ballantyne 704.752.7284 Charlotte 704.527.5783 Mooresville 704.799.2881 Huntersville 704.237.4387 Uptown 980.939.1166

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Decompression Destinations

Ghostface Brewing

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orth Carolinians have always enjoyed trips to Mooresville, either for a lazy day on the lake, to explore the history of stock car racing, or to take a short jaunt back to the 50’s down the colloquial Main Street. In addition to the usual favorite activities, Ghostface Brewing is a fresh destination that is rapidly making its way up the town’s ‘must do’ bucket list. It’s a new business amidst the charming antique side of the city, but it pays homage to it’s history by proudly sporting old bricks and beams collected from the original on-site structure. In fact, if you pay the brewery a visit and inevitably enjoy yourself, you can buy one of the bricks and have your name permanently affixed to walls of this unique establishment. Of course the part industrial, part medieval style of this watering hole is not it’s number one claim to excite the masses- people are rushing to Ghostface for the beer.

menu never gets stale. The brewery’s flagship beers, like the cleverly named Reapercussions IPA, and the Caliginous Bourbon Barrel Stout are impressive enough to stand alone on the taps, but they also have a great selection of guest drafts to add variety. Ciders, mead, wine, and gluten-reduced beers are also constantly offered to delight all of the gluten-sensitive Lake Norman destination seekers!

With over 20 brews on tap, there is something to entice every beer lover from every part of the state. The brew masters are at the hop-helm every single day working on new and diverse drafts to insure that the beer

–Kara Werts

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The exceptional aspects of Ghostface Brewing seem to pile on endlessly… (Did I mention that they always have two nitro drafts on tap?!)

It is absolutely worth an outing to Mooresville to enjoy a Cuddy’s Irish Red over a game of cornhole. Lastly, if you make it to Ghostface and decide that you don’t want to leave, Davidson Pizza Company is always serving on site and you can find out for yourself which house-brewed cold draft pairs best with a New York Style Cheese Pie.

Ghostface Brewing 427 East Statesville Ave. Mooresville, NC 28115 www.ghostfacebrewing.com

Regional Events & Destinations

Latta Celtic Festival & Celtic Music Night

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his is it, the event you’ve been waiting all year for, it’s back!

For the last five years spectators from near and far have made their way to Historic Latta Plantation in celebration of the Celtic culture James Latta once hailed from. Just in time for St. Patrick’s Day, you can celebrate all things Celtic by enjoying live music, food and beer vendors, arts and crafts vendors, historic Celtic warriors and heritage demonstrations. Children will enjoy story times, dancing, visiting the farm animals and more.

Night Fundraiser on Saturday night.

Enjoy an outdoor concert on the lawn of the plantation grounds and enjoy both food and beverage as you relax with friends and family.

Celtic Music Featured Artists include Thistledown Tinkers, Sterling Bridge, The Loch Norman Pipe Band, The Hidden Harbor Minstrels, and Southern Express.

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The Latta Celtic Festival will also be hosting the annual Celtic Music

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Buildings, Beauty And Barbecue In Shelby

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he Earl Scruggs Center The first building you’ll pass c e l e b r a t e s t h e l e g e n d a r y on your walking tour is the former bluegrass musician and North Cleveland County Courthouse. This Carolina native building, constructed in 1907, is the crown jewel of uptown Shelby. It The city of Shelby, about halfway was designed by H.F. Newman and between Charlotte and Asheville, has is a stunning example of Classical a thriving artist community, great Revival architecture of that period. history and architecture, a winery, and The Courthouse recently was some of the best lip-smacking, real pit barbecue in western North Carolina, renovated and converted into the Earl Scruggs Center. This museum all within a few miles of uptown. tells the story of Scruggs, whose Historic District unique three-finger playing style Walking Tour continues to influence music around Start your visit in uptown Shelby the world. The Scruggs Center at the Cleveland County Chamber of enlightens, educates and celebrates Commerce office building and pick the people, traditions and values of up brochures for the Historic District Cleveland County and the region and Walking Tour and Art District Guide honors its native son with exhibits to help guide you through the area. and programming.

Shelby was a film location for The Hunger Games and the Chamber As you continue on your walking offers guided private tours of the tour, you will be walking through filming location. Call in advance or a real-life museum of architecture schedule a tour while you’re at the styles, including Egyptian Revival office.

(Masonic Temple, 1924), Colonial

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Regional Events & Destinations

Revival (Post Office, 1916), Gothic Revival (Central United Methodist Church, 1924, and First Baptist Church, 1911) and Art Deco (Rogers Theatre, 1930s).

Art District and Shelby City Park Carrousel

However, you will also notice some “indoor” art on your walk, as uptown Shelby is also home to several thriving galleries and studios specializing in many art forms.

Create your own art at Art Blooms or browse art and handcrafts at Buffalo Creek Gallery, intricate quilts at Alley Quilts and beautiful pottery at Allen Griffin Pottery.

Now that you’ve had your fill of art and history, it’s time for the kind of art that puts the “fun” back in “functional,” the handcrafted carrousel at Shelby City Park. The carrousel was built circa 1919, and brought to Shelby in the 1950s.

Twenty-nine original horses and three hand-car ved replacements were recently restored, while an authentic working Carrousel Band Organ provides the stirring music.

It’s one of the last year-round carrousels left in a traditional park location, so let your inner child take a ride.

Owl’s Eye Vineyard & Winery and Red Bridges Barbecue Lodge

Then, head north of downtown about three miles and stop at Owl’s Eye Vineyard & Winery. The tasting room is open Thursday through Sunday, and for a small fee you can sample several of the vineyard’s varietals. You’ll even get to keep your engraved wine glass. Owl’s Eye also has an in-house chef preparing

locally grown foods, offering a real taste of Cleveland County.

As you conclude your busy day, be sure and make a stop at Red Bridges Barbecue Lodge on U.S. 74, part of the North Carolina Barbecue Trail. You’ll probably actually smell the restaurant before you see it, because the giant outdoor barbecue pit sends an alluring hickory-pork aroma wafting in all directions. Be sure to get the works: some ‘cue, slaw, hush puppies and the supersweet but addictive tea. Top it off with Bridges’ homemade peach cobbler, and you’ll be headed home with a full belly and some ver y satisfied taste buds.

Enjoy all the area has to offer by mixing and matching events to your particular interest. Be sure to check days and hours of operation for each venue.

Cleveland County Tourism 2001-76 East Dixon Boulevard Shelby, NC 28152 www.tourclevelandcounty.com

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LKNBrewersTrail.com

LKNBT

Your single source for what is going on at participating breweries in the Lake Norman area.

Whats On Tap Whats Going On How To Get There

BAYNE BREWING COMPANY Bayne Brewing Company offers several different types of craft beer in Cornelius, NC. The selections will rotate based on the season and availability of certain ingredients. Each beer hand crafted in small batches with great attention to detail. They offer some the best craft beers in the state, so come on in and give them a try!

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 their neighborhoods, to their first location’s humble one-barrel beginnings, intense local thirst for the Fanatical Ales™ propelled them to open their current 30 barrel production brewery. D9 is reimagining some of the world’s most unique and trusted styles of beer.

GHOSTFACE BREWING Ghostface offers up to 20 beers on tap, with a selection of rotating styles, some available on nitro.

Tastings & full pours are available on-site, as well as full growler fills to go.

Davidson Pizza Company is always serving on site and you can find out for yourself which house-brewed cold draft pairs best with a New York Style Cheese Pie. 427 East Statesville Ave. Mooresville, NC 28115 704.799.7433 ghostfacebrewing.com

11138 Treynorth Dr Cornelius NC 28031 704.457.9368 d9brewing.com

Digital content is available on desktop,Regional tablet and phone& Destinations 28 Events

See The Skyscraper #116 That Inspired The Empire State Building

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inston-Salem is best known for the Moravian culture on display in its historic Old Salem community. But visitors passing through downtown often look at one of the city ’s skyscrapers and have a feeling they’ve seen it somewhere before.

Winston-Salem’s Reynolds Building was the model for the Empire State Building, one of the world’s most iconic skyscrapers. The connection is so strong that executives from the Empire State Building sent the Reynolds Building a thank-you card on its 50th birthday. The Reynolds Building was constructed in 1929

by Shreve and Lamb, who would design the Empire State Building a few years later based on the same plans. The iconic shape of the two buildings is the same, though the Empire State Building has 102 floors whereas the Reynolds Building has 22. For nearly a century, the Reynolds Building was the home

office for the R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company. The Reynolds Building was named “Building of the Year” by the National Association of Architects, won the 1984 Art Deco Society of New York award for best restoration and was the tallest building in the South for 35 years.

In early 2016, Kimpton Hotels and Restaurant will open The Cardinal Hotel on the lower six floors and the remainder of the building will be developed as luxury apartments.

Project 543 tells the story of unique spots across North Carolina we hope will become some of your favorite places. Check in often to find inspiration for your next trip, or start planning today at VisitNC.com.

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Ski Continued From Page 13

Latta Continued From Page 25

and warm up at one of the day spas in Banner Elk. A hot stone or deep tissue massage at Serenity Day Spa will reinvigorate your body and mind; opt for a couple’s massage if you’re spending time with your significant other. Or peruse the menu Food and Beer Vendors include at Natural Healing Day Spa, where St. Andrews Square, Appalachian a detox wrap, body scrub or dead Smoke BBQ, Anna’s Sweet Treats, sea body mask may be just what and The Olde Mecklenburg Brewery. you need.

Other vendors including Near One of the best things about and Far Scottish! Will be in the your winter getaway is your choices Vendor Village alongside many Celtic for places to stay. A mountain inn is Clans. the way to go, such as Azalea Inn Bed and Breakfast, The Pinnacle Inn and Beech Alpen Inn (the Alpen Restaurant & Bar is worthy of a night out regardless of where you stay). Or if you really want to get your friends excited, tell them you’re planning to stay at a winery. Yes, there’s Banner Elk Winery & Villa, where a Tuscaninspired villa features luxury suites Latta Celtic Festival overlooking the vineyards.

March 11th & 12th Saturday & Sunday 10am-4pm

Other dining options offer memorable experiences as well. At Mile High Tavern, enjoy a large craft beer selection and cozy up next to a 20-foot fire pit. And at Edward’s Fine Dining, reservations are required and only 20 guests are seated for dinner each night, so make sure to call in advance.

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–VisitNC.com

$9 Adults, $8 Seniors (62+), $8 Students, Children 5 and under are FREE Music Night Fundraiser (Saturday 6pm-8pm) $10 per-person, all proceeds go to the preservation of Latta Place and it’s programming Combo Tickets (includes One Festival day and Music Night Fundraiser) $16 per-person

Regional Events & Destinations

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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