Issue 072 March the Destination Magazine™

the Issue 72 Local & Regional Events & Destinations

First Ever NC Beer Festival Showcasing Women In Beer!!!

New Bikes, New Exhibits, New Fun!

The 24th Annual Loch Norman Highland Games 5506’ Skybar

8 Places To Enjoy A Unique Dessert

We Tell You Where To Go! theDestinationMag com .

Founded On A Love Of Rum

Page 16

2

Regional Events & Destinations

Go hang out on the Catawba

For the outdoor enthusiast in all of us, Gaston County offers amazing blueways as well as a wide array of other 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 | go2gaston.org | theDestinationMag.com 704-706-2365 Photo courtesy of Wade Bagwell.

3

March 2017 Issue 72

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The Destination Magazine™ is not a historical document, we will not write about spectacular events you’ve missed.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 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.

4

Page 16

Page 18

Page 22

Page 27

Contents DayTrip Destinations Founded On A Love Of Rum

6 16

First Ever NC Beer Festival Showcasing Women In Beer!!! 18 New Bikes, New Exhibits, New Fun!

20

The 24th Annual Loch Norman Highland Games 22 5506’ Skybar

24

See A Living Shipwreck Without Ever Getting Wet

26

Surry Sonker Trail: 8 Places To Enjoy A Unique Dessert

27

We Tell You Where To Go! Regional Events & Destinations

Request a Free Guide to

NC Wine Country

YadkinValleyNC.com 800.948.0949 theDestinationMag.com 704-706-2365

5

Destinations

DayTrip Destinations Winter Wine Passport Now–Mar ch 18. Tastings at 10 wineries and a breweries in the Yadkin Valley Wine Region. www.surrywineries.com 23rd Annual Pine Needles Men’s Invitational March 3– March 5, Pine Needles Lodge 1005 Midland Rd. Southern Pines, NC 28387. The Pine Needles Invitational is in its 23rd year and attracts some of the best amateur players.

This 54-hole two-man team event is contested on two of the best golf courses in the Sandhills. Pine Needles is a three-time host of the U.S. Women’s Open, and Mid Pines is the “#7 Best Course You Can Play in NC” according to the NC Golf Panel. www.pineneedles-midpines.com C a p e Fe a r B e e r & W i n e Festival Mar ch 4, 12pm–5pm Wilmington Convention Center–515 Nutt St, Wilmington, NC 28401. Wilmington, NC will be hosting their seventh annual beer and wine festival. This 30,000 square foot venue is a first class, state of the art building located

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 Sip & Seek Bridal Show March 5, 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

“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 Biere de Femme Festival March 11, 1pm–5pm City Pavilion 126 W Marion St Shelby, NC 28150. We are so excited to announce the first ever NC Beer Festival showcasing Women in Beer!!! The festival will showcase 30 breweries. Each brewery will be pouring a beer created specifically for the festival, with women employees of the brewery. There will also be representatives from the numerous Brewing Degree Programs from Colleges across the state, a wall dedicated to the History of Women in Beer, a book release, sensor y training for guests, and many more attractions showcasing the women who work so hard in the beer industry. VIP guests will have an additional hour to sample, and will also receive a copy of the

book being released “Brewing up Ambition”, a T-Shirt as well as access to the VIP tent. Many of the women featured in “Brewing up Ambition” will be participating in the festival, and will be on hand to autograph their pages in the book. www.pinkbootssociety.org Latta Celtic Festival M a r c h 11–March 12, 5225 Sample Rd, Huntersville, NC 28078. This is it, the event you’ve been waiting all year for, it’s back… The Latta Celtic Festival. For the last five years spectators from near and far have made their way to Historic L atta Plantation in celebration of the Celtic culture James Latta once hailed from. Just in time f o r S t . Pa t r i c k ’ s D a y, y o u c a n Continued On Page 8

theDestinationMag.com 704-706-2365

7

Destinations Continued From Page 7

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. www.lattaplantation.org

cooking over an open flame at the historic Rural Retreat Cabin.

Challenge your friends and family to a round of corn hole. Enjoy live music under the stars. Take a scenic and relaxing hayride around the property (fee applies), or hike off any culinar y excesses with a quiet hike along our 2.5 mile trail.

Funk & Monk March 11, 3pm– www.ruralhillfarm.org 10pm Fonta Flora Brewery 317 N Green St, Morganton, NC 28655. 7th Annual Assault on BlackFUNK- the release of two oak barrel rock March 18, 2110 Fisher Creek fermented Appalachian Wild ales, Rd Sylva, NC 28779. Trail running is NeedAHug with local blueberry & extreme, and trail running in Sylva is elderberries and Big Shrug with no exception. How does running a local blackberry & fennel. MONK- seven-mile mountain trail race with A showcase of our dear friend, 2,770 feet of elevation gain sound? the Urban Monk’s artwork & the Trail runners who compete in the release of our dedicated Urban Assault on BlackRock trail race will Monk Imperial Stout (and suprise summit BlackRock at 5,810 feet–and variants). Live Music & local food that’s just the halfway point of the www.fontaflora.com race. The trail race weaves through the spruce forests along the spine 5th Annual Bull City Food of the Plott Balsam Mountains on and Beer Experience March challenging gravel and dirt roads.

12, 4pm–6pm 123 Vivian Street The final summit comprises of 650 Durham, NC 27701. The event feet gain in 1/3 of a mile on steep showcases additional brewer y single track. www.facebook.com/ and local food vendors, unlimited Assault-on-BlackRock samplings and three floors of food & beverage options. It includes food Granville Ambulance Chase sampling from 35 of Durham’s finest & Food Truck Rodeo March restaurants, beer tastings from 35 18–March 19, Stovall’s Gifts 100 breweries, and live music on stage. Main St. Oxford, NC 27565. The www.bullcityexperience.com Granville Ambulance Chase & Food Truck Rodeo has something for Rural Hill Food Truck Rally Sat everyone–from serious runners to March 18th 4pm–8pm Historic Rural families looking for a day of healthy Hill, 4431 Neck Rd, Huntersville, NC fun. Proceeds to benefit the Granville 28078. The Rural Hill Food Truck Health System Foundation. Join us!

Rally has something for everyone! www.visitgranvillenc.com Let your kids run wild in the Kids Zone (fee applies), learn about Continued On Page 10

8

Regional Events & Destinations

STEP INTO

SPRING! NEW SPRING 2017 EDITION OAKLEY

GLASSES ARE IN! New Apparel Arriving Daily!

New Wheel & Tire Sets Starting At

$1599*

164 W. W Plaza Dr.r.r Mooresville NC 28117 • 704- 235-6800 • M-F 8:00am-6:00pm Sat 8:00am-4:00pm www.facebook.com/ RandyMarionRMX

20%OFF* Wheel & Tire Combos

in stock *Cannot be combined only with any other offer.

Taproom TAPROOM HOURSHours AND DEALS WED 4-10 $3 PINTS $9 PITCHERS Thu & Fri: 4-10 THU 4-10 $22 GROWLER PINT BOMBER Sat: 2-10 FRI 2-10 $10 GROWLER FILLUPS Sun: 12-8 SAT 12-10 SUN 12-8 FREE SUNDAY Delivery HoursDINNER

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.

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 8

7th Annual Catawba Valley Gem and Mineral Show March 23–March 25, Hickor y Metro Convention Center–1960 13th Ave Dr SE, Hickory, NC 28602. Come join us for the show featuring gems, minerals, beads, fossils & jewelry.

Please visit the website for more information. www.cvgmc.com OBX Ta s te of T he B e ac h March 23–March 26, Multiple Locations Kill Devil Hills NC 27948. The Outer Banks Taste o f T h e B e a c h We e k e n d i s a fantastic way to sample the fare of many fine restaurants on the Outer Banks in one fun-filled, food-centric weekend! Casual chefs to full- on foodie fanatics will revel in innovative culinar y opportunities offered up by members of the Outer Banks R e s t a u r a n t A s s o c i a t i o n . Yo u can indulge in a fancy wine dinner one night and mix with the masses in an organic farm to fork experience the next. Or maybe an intimate cooking class with one of the area’s talented Chefs is more your speed. We offer over 60 events over four days at over 30 different venues.

This fun food festival event features: wine tastings, cooking classes, special multi-course menu presentations, brewer y tours, tapas crawls, cook-offs and more. There really is something for ever yone! It’s four days of foodie heaven and lots of fun activities on the Outer Banks. www.obxtasteofthebeach.com 40th Anniversary of the Mountains-to-Sea Trail Gathering of Friends Annual Meeting March 24–March 26, Downtown Elkin NC. Come to the Gathering of Friends event celebrating 40 years of the MST, which is now along Elkin’s downtown Main Street where the event is being held. Dozens of events planned for this 3-day event offering numerous things to do on the trail and around the region. A fabulous way to learn about this fantastic group, which is open for membership! REI will be on hand for a mountain bike demo, keynote speakers, live music, dinner celebrations, and trail and town excursions make up this fun-filled weekend. www.whatsupinelkinnc.com

22 ft Pontoon with 90HP 4 Stroke Motor $23,995

Marina (828) 241-4877 Showroom (828) 478-4877 10

www.longislandmarina.com

Regional Events & Destinations

Destinations Nantahala Racing Club Whitewater US Open March 25–March 26, 13077 W Hwy 19 Bryson City, NC 28713. Elite slalom and downriver racers strive for precision and speed on the legendary Nantahala Falls course at this classic southeastern race. Meanwhile, wildwater racers compete in sprint and classic components on the Nantahala River.

Hosted by the Nantahala Racing Club. Participation fee. Spectators free. (competitors registration and practice on Friday, March 24). www.nantahalaracingclub.com NC Herring Festival March 25–March 26, 102 E Main St Williamston, NC 27892. For nearly 70 years, crowds have gathered on the

banks of the Roanoke in Jamesville to celebrate the arrival of spring with friends, family, food and fun!

Today, the festivities take over the whole town! The Herring Festival has grown to include a Friday night band and street dance plus carnival rides. Saturday brings a morning pancake breakfast followed by a unique parade; a huge Egg Hunt set on the beautiful grounds of Tammy ’s Plant House, complete with live bunnies; talented singers and musicians bringing a variety of music types throughout the afternoon; a Saturday night Street Dance and sunset Fireworks! A good variety of vendors rounds out the offerings. Start spring off right! www.ncherringfestival.com Continued On Page 12

May 19-20 Statesville

North Carolina

Hops Garden sponsored by

CarolinaRootsMusicFest.com theDestinationMag.com 704-706-2365

11

Destinations Continued From Page 11

A ll A merican Marathon/ Mike to Mike Half Marathon/ A ll A mer ica n 5K Mar ch 26, 7am–12pm Festival Park Fayetteville, NC 28301. Half and full marathon r unners begin their jour ney in downtown Fayetteville, at Festival Park, traveling through the beautiful historic district to the All American Freeway, where the course will lead to Fort Bragg, home of the U.S. Army Airborne and Special Operations Forces. This run boasts a unique inside look at the largest U.S. military installation, ending with a finish festival celebration. For more information, including details on the 5K, refer to the event website. www.allamericanmarathon.com

the same time and place (same fees), but takes you on an exciting 25 mile course through rolling hillsides and farmlands. Applications available online or at the Corpening YMCA in Marion. Free spaghetti meal for participants after the ride. www.ymcawnc.org/tourdelure

38th Annual Blowing Rock Trout Derby April 1, Blowing Rock Clubhouse 108 Lakeside Dr. Blowing Rock, NC 28605. The Derby begins at sunrise on Saturday, prizes awarded at 4:30pm. Win prizes for biggest fish in separate age categories.

No entry fees are required and no pre-registration is necessary. Just take your catch to the official Derby headquarters at the Blowing Rock 13th Annual Tour De Lure Clubhouse on Lakeside Drive, by the B i ke R i d e A p r i l 1 , M a r i o n ’ s Community Pool and Broyhill Park.

YMCA 348 Grace Corpening Dr www.blowingrock.com/troutderby/ Marion, NC 28752. Two rides: one for the hardcore cyclist and Rock ‘n’ Roll Raleigh Maraa fun ride. The Dewey Hughes thon and 1/2 Marathon April 1, Memorial Ride is a challenging 8am–12pm S Salisbury St Raleigh, one beginning at Marion’s YMCA NC 27601. Rock ‘n’ Roll Raleigh traveling through rolling farmlands, Marathon & 1/2 Marathon includes up Stone Mountain, around Lake Saturday 5K to the race weekend Lure, through Chimney Rock and lineup! Introducing the Remix returning to Marion for a total of Challenge: Run the 5K on Saturday 67 miles. The Fun Ride begins at and either the marathon or half

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

12

frances dawson

REALTOR, BROKER, GRI, SRES

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

Destinations marathon on Sunday to earn your individual finisher medals, plus you’ll automatically qualify for the bonus Remix Challenge medal.

That’s one weekend, two days of running and three times the bling! www.runrocknroll.com/raleigh/ Wheels Through Time Opening Day! New Bikes, New Exhibits, New Fun. Sat April 1st Wheels Through Time, 62 Vintage Ln, Maggie Valley, NC 28751. Visitors from every state and over 50 countries around the world who made a trip to Wheels Through Time in Maggie Valley, North Carolina in the 2016 season. 2017 promises to be an exciting year for the museum, its supporters, and enthusiasts. For those that have

never visited the Wheels Through Time, we guarantee an experience beyond your expectations. Currently the museum team members are gearing up for the season, with new displays, exhibits, and some exciting external improvements.

Dale is restoring and rebuilding over a dozen intriguing motorcycles which will all debut in the various museum galleries in the season. www.wheelsthroughtime.com Burly Beers and Barleywines Festival April 1, 1pm–5pm Sierra Nevada Brewing Co–Sierra Nevada Wa y, F l e t c h e r, N C 2 8 7 3 2 . T h e North Carolina Craft Brewers Guild (NCCBG) has partnered with Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. to invite more Continued On Page 14

Andrew Zachary Digital Imagery

CANVAS PRINTS A DIFFERENT FROM YOUR

PERSPECTIVE

PHOTOS

AERIAL PORTRAIT ANDREWZACHARY.COM 704.706.2365 LAKE NORMAN / GREENSBORO EVENT FAMILY theDestinationMag.com 704-706-2365

13

Destinations Continued From Page 13

than 50 breweries to join us at Sierra Nevada’s brewery in Mills River, NC, for the 2nd Burly Beer Festival. All participating breweries will bring their heartiest brews for you to enjoy. Come raise your goblet to pay homage to the end of winter and warm your soul with the best burly ales. We’re toasting the spiced and the barrel aged, the stouts and the barleywines, and the big-hearted men and women who love them.

Cheers! www.sierranevada.com Craft Beer SpringFest Sun April 2nd 3pm–9pm Jetton Village, 19906 N Cove Rd, Cornelius, NC 28031. Party on the square with Craft Beer Vendors, Small business vendor booths, 3 LIVE BANDS and food on the square! Don’t miss a combination of Craft Beer from the DraftHouse and Food to pair with it from Harvey’s. Bring your family and friends. Bounce Houses setup for the kids and Wine Tent setup for the parents. We’ll have cornhole boards and games, bring a lawn chair or a blanket and join us for a great afternoon to kick off the Spring in style with a great community of friends! www.corneliusdrafthouse.com

evening with you! Live Music. Food.

Craft Beer. Music Performances by: Time Sawyer & Big Daddy Mojo. www.angrytrollbrewing.com My ra’s Cla ssic & A nt ique Car Cruise In Friday April 7th 6pm–10pm Myra’s, 212 Main St W, Valdese, NC 28690. Classic and Antique cars of all sorts fill the Myra’s and Rock Drug parking lots on Friday nights beginning at 6pm. Visitors are welcome to stroll through, take pictures and chat with the owners of these unique cars. Enjoy the music from a deejay in front of Myra’s and on special nights performances from Elvis! Raffles are also a highlight of these Friday nights with chances for visitors to take home cash! www.townofvaldese.com

6th Annual Spring Fling at Shelton V ineya rds April 8, 10am–6pm Shelton Vineyards–286 Cabernet Ln, Dobson, NC 27017.

We will host our sixth annual Spring Festival with FREE admission and FREE tours and tastings! L ocal artisans and craftsmen will be here with their handmade items. Harvest Grill Express will be open serving food and wine for purchase while you enjoy music and shopping!

Angry Troll Brewing Grand www.sheltonvineyards.com Opening April 7, 5:30pm–8:30pm Angry Troll Brewing 222 E Main St Lincolnton Food, Wine & Brew Elkin, NC 28621. Our grand opening Fest Sat April 22nd 11am–7pm is important to us here at Angr y Downtown Lincolnton, E Main St, Troll Brewing. We have worked Lincolnton, NC 28092. We feature lover y hard to build our brewer y, cal craft breweries, NC wineries, top t a p r o o m , a n d m e r g e w i t h t h e notch food trucks and a mix of fine restaurant upstairs to bring great artists and vendors from the region. beer, awesome food, and a solid lincolntonfoodwinebrewfest.com social hub space under one roof.

Now, we want to share a fun filled

14

Regional Events & Destinations

30 BREWERIES

Saturday March 11

www.pinkbootssociety.org City Pavilion, Shelby, NC 126 W. Marion St. Shelby NC 28150 1-5 for VIP and 2-5 for General Admission Each brewery will be pouring a beer created specifically for the festival

We Are So Excited To Announce The First Ever NC Beer Festival Showcasing Women In Beer!!!

New Belgium Brewing • Highland Brewing • Oskar Blues Brewery • Wicked Weed Brewing Company Bhramari Brewing Company • Birdsong Brewing Blowing Rock Brewing Company • Bombshell Brewing Company • Burial Brewing • Crank Arm Brewing Company • Dreamchasers Brewing • Free Range Brewing • Fullsteam Brewery • Hi-Wire Brewing • Hillman Beer • Joymongers Brewing Legion Brewing • Lonerider Brewing Company Mother Earth Brewing • Mystery Brewing Co. •Newgrass Brewing Co. • NoDa Brewing Company Oak and Dagger Public House • Pisgah Brewing Ponysaurus Brewing Company • Preyer Brewing Company • Raleigh Brewing Company • Sanctuary Brewing Co. Sub Noir and Tarboro Brewing Company. VIP breweries include Fonta Flora Brewery • Thirsty Monk and Zebulon Artisan Ales.

Local Food trucks will be on hand selling delicious meals!

the

VIP guests will have an additional hour to sample, and will also receive a copy of the book being released “Brewing Ambition”, a T-Shirt as well as access to the VIP tent.

All proceeds will be donated to the Pink Boots Society. www.pinkbootssociety.org

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

15

Founded On A Love Of Rum

E

ver y now and then, most Americans will have a particularly fr ustrating or gloomy day, and whilst we stare longingly at the white sand beach on our screensaver, we think, “That’s it. I’m done. I’m running away, I’m going to join some pirates, and I’m going to spend my life burying gold coins in obscure places and drinking rum all day.” It seems like a great plan until you realize how hard it is to procure a live parrot on Craigslist and you remember how diligent the US Coast Guard is about thwarting pillaging and plundering of any sort… However, do not immediately assume your plans to be completely foiled. Change your heading from Tortuga to Belmont, and there you will find an actual pirate (of the East Carolina University variety), his lovely wife- who commands her distillery with a faultless pallet, and…

A WHOLE LOTTA RUM!

its creators and partners refuse to settle for anything but perfection in the form of rum. More importantly, they want to share their product with all the rum lovers of the world.

Muddy River acted as a pioneer, creating and operating the very first Muddy River is a distillery that rum distiller y in North Carolina, was founded on a love of rum, and effectively knocking the Wright

16

Regional Events & Destinations

Brothers down a peg or two in terms of revolutionizing the Old North State. Everything about Muddy River as a business is impressive enough before your taste buds even touch rum, and when they do… your opinion of liquor with forever be evolved in a wonderful, wonderful way. Do a tour and a tasting at Muddy River and you will learn exactly how much work and how much passion these rum pioneers really put into their product. They stressed, many times, how badly they wanted to have a better rum, the best in my opinion, and they accomplished it.

Instead of dramatically quitting your life and sailing away, placate yourself by spending a Saturday af ter noon taste testing r um of many varieties and flavors. Just as a warning, be prepared to throw out

everything in your liquor cabinet that doesn’t say “Muddy River,” because it will nothing else will meet your new rum standards any longer. You don’t need the Seven Seas when you have a Muddy River and you don’t need an escape plan with you have Liberty and Democracy to rely on. Which are the names of the stills, obviously.

–Kara Werts Muddy River Distillery 1500 River Dr Belmont, NC 28012 www.muddyriverdistillery.com

April 2nd 3-9pm

Craft Beer SpringFest 2017!

Jetton Village North Cove Road, Cornelius, NC

Food Pairings From

Harvey’s

CRAFT BEER BOUNCE 3 LIVE BANDS WINE TENT HOUSE BRING A LOCAL VENDORS LAWN CHAIR GAMES

cor neliusdrafthouse.com

theDestinationMag.com 704-706-2365

17

First Ever NC Beer Festival Showcasing Women In Beer!!!

B

i e r e d e Fe m m e i s a b e e r festival that will be held on March 11, 2017 in Downtown Shelby, NC. The times will be from 1-5 for VIP and 2-5 for General Admission ticket holders. The festival will showcase Women throughout the Beer Industry with an emphasis on NC women beer professionals. All proceeds from the festival will be donated to the Pink Boots Society. Pink Boots Society is an organization created to assist, inspire and encourage women beer industry professionals to advance their careers through education.

The money raised will directly go to providing scholarships for women to advance their beer careers.

the numerous Brewing Degree Programs from Colleges across the state, a wall dedicated to the History of Women in Beer, a book release, sensor y training for guests, and many more attractions showcasing the women who work so hard in the The festival will showcase 30 beer industry. breweries. Each brewer y will be pouring a beer created specifically Guests will receive a commemof o r t h e f e s t i v a l , w i t h w o m e n rative glass from the event and will employees of the brewery. There be able to sample beer from all of will also be representatives from the participating breweries.

18

Regional Events & Destinations

LIVE MUSIC Wednesday thru Saturday

704•997•2534 www.eltorogrill.us

Conveniently located for all LKN visitors.

Perfect for the entire family.

20930 Torrence Chapel Rd. Cornelius.

Just west of I-77 exit 28

VIP guests will have an additional hour to sample, and will also receive a copy of the book being released “Brewing up Ambition”, a T-Shirt as well as access to the VIP tent. Many of the women featured in “Brewing up Ambition” will be participating in the festival, and will be on hand to autograph their pages in the book.

Local Food trucks will be on hand selling delicious meals! Updates will be posted on Facebook, Biere de Femme Festival.

Cheers to Women in Beer!

City Pavilion, Shelby, NC 126 W. Marion St. Shelby NC 28150, US Saturday March 11 2017, 1-5pm www.pinkbootssociety.org

21314 CATAWBA AVE, CORNELIUS (980) 288-4418 www.oldtownpublic.house

Participating Breweries: New Belgium Brewing, Highland Brewing, Oskar Blues Brewery, Wicked Weed Brewing Company, Bhramari Brewing Company, Birdsong Brewing, Blowing Rock Brewing Company, Bombshell Brewing Company, Burial Brewing, Crank Arm Brewing Company, Dreamchasers Brewing, Free Range Brewing, Fullsteam Brewery, Hi-Wire Brewing, Hillman Beer, Joymongers Brewing, Legion Brewing, Lonerider Brewing Company, Mother Ear th B r ew i n g , M y s t e r y B r ew i n g C o . , Newgrass Brewing Co., NoDa Brewing Company, Oak and Dagger Public House, Pisgah Brewing, Ponysaurus Brewing Company, Preyer Brewing Company, Raleigh Brewing Company, Sanctuar y Brewing Co. Sub Noir and Tarboro Brewing Company. VIP breweries include Fonta Flora Brewery, Thirsty Monk and Zebulon Artisan Ales.

theDestinationMag.com 704-706-2365

19

the

Homepage - Calendar - Photos

New Bikes, New Exhibits, New Fun!

H

appy New Year and thank you to all of our friends, supporters, and enthusiasts!

Visitors from every state and over 50 countries around the world who made a trip to Wheels Through Time in Maggie Valley, North Carolina in the 2016 season. 2017 promises to be an exciting year for the museum, its supporters, and enthusiasts. For those that have never visited the Wheels Through Time, we guarantee an experience beyond your expectations. Currently the museum team members are gearing up for the 2017 season, with new displays, exhibits, and some exciting external improvements. Dale is restoring and rebuilding over a dozen intriguing motorcycles which will all debut in the various museum galleries in the 2017 season.

After the 2016 season of American Restoration featured The Wheels Through Time, not only did awareness of the Wheels Through

Time rapidly grow, but the desire to learn about American motorcycle restoration also expanded all across the globe. In 2007, Dale introduced The Time Machine. Dale realized that not everybody may have the opportunity to visit the museum first hand, however a unique digital presentation could be enjoyed worldwide. From 2007-2016 Dale produced 345 educational videos pertaining to all aspects of The Wheels Through Time Museum.

The Time Machine gave the world Continued On Page 29

20

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 Wine - Gifts Gourmet Snacks

TWO LOCATIONS

Craft Beer Cigars - RUSTIC -

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

theDestinationMag.com 704-706-2365

21

The 24th Annual Loch Norman Highland Games

T

his unique festival celebrates Scottish Heritage and is fun for the entire family! April 8th and 9th, 2017 make sure you plan to come out and enjoy Celtic Music, Highland Dance, Highland Heavy Athletics, Historic Encampments, Traditional Scottish food and wares, and so much more!

This year, the Loch Norman Highland Games are thrilled to welcome Mari Black, renowned multistyle violinist and champion fiddler. Mari is known for her energetic playing and engaging stage presence, having won several national and international competitions over the past several years. She draws from an eclectic mix of styles including jazz, tango, folk, and Western classical as well as Celtic, American and Canadian fiddling.

22

Also joining the docket will be SYR, a Celtic Folk-Rock band from Columbia, SC. Known for their themes like battle, love, loss and heritage, SYR plays Irish and Scottish drinking songs, pirate sea shanties and ballads in Gaelic. Also playing will be Stirling Bridge, a bagpipe-driven Celtic band; folk singer Ed Miller; singer, flute and whistle player, Jil Chambless; and long-time guitar player, Scooter Muse.

Regional Events & Destinations

Scottish Games as we know them today began to develop in 1781 when the Highland Society of Falkirk sponsored prize money and trophies for competitions in dancing, piping, and athletics during the town’s Fall Fair. In 1818 a Games was presented in St. Fillan’s with piping, athletics, and dancing (including the Sword Dance for the first time). Within a few years Gatherings were being held at many towns throughout Scotland.

Many of these Gatherings are still being held today.

These live traditional and Celtic rock music performances will be taking place throughout the weekend, along with Scottish countr y dancing, Piping and Dr umming competitions, long bow and battle axe competitions, and demonstrations. Search your genealogy at the Games and then go meet your Scottish clan and representatives! Professional and amateur heavy athletics will be competing all weekend, along with whisky seminars and a “Kid’s Zone”. Event will be held rain or shine! We can’t wait to see you there! Modern Scottish Festivals have their roots in the middle ages. We have reports of athletic competition (“Games”) at many times and places when people gathered together; fairs, militar y musters (“wapenschaws”), even funerals!

Games which now feature track and field events, music, and dance have been held in the village of Ceres (in Fife) since shortly after the battle of Bannockburn in 1314.

Tickets are currently on sale online for $20 for two-day admission and includes admission to the Saturday night concert. You are encouraged to pre-purchase your tickets online, as day- of tickets will increase in price at the gate.

Complete information and advance ticket purchases are available online at www.lochnorman.com.

April 8th and 9th, 2017 For additional information and for a complete schedule as it becomes available, please visit www.lochnorman.com or www.ruralhill.com.

Celebrating more than 250 years in history…Rural Hill is the former homestead of Major John and Violet Davidson. The 265-acre site is maintained and promoted by Historic Rural Hill Inc. and features annual events such as the Loch Norman Highland Games, the Rural Hill Amazing Maize Maze, the Rural Hill Sheepdog Trials, and the NC Brewers and Music Festival.

Historic Rural Hill Inc. is a non-profit organization supported through membership and donations, and with proceeds from its events utilized for the preservation of Historic Rural Hill and its education efforts. For more information on events or for financial support accepted securely online, please visit www.ruralhill.net.

theDestinationMag.com 704-706-2365

23

Decompression Destinations

5506’ Skybar

A

t the top of Beech Mountain Resort is a one- of-a-kind amenity where guests are invited to take a break from skiing and snowboarding. Constructed in 2013, Beech Mountain Resort added a facility named 5506’, paying tribute to the elevation that gives us the title of the highest ski area in eastern America. 5506’ is a structure like no other that consists of: a 2800 ft.² deck with Adirondack chairs and picnic tables; a glass roundhouse complete with bar, barstools, and tables; a snack bar ; as well as, heated restrooms.

After riding the chairlift up to the summit, skiers and snowboarders are welcome to kick off their skis and snowboards and kick back at 5506’. The breathtaking views are unparalleled with a beautiful panorama of the Blue Ridge Mountains as they span North Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia.

The options for food and drinks are plentiful and mouth-watering. You are guaranteed to call this spot a favorite at Beech Mountain!

24

The snack bar at 5506’ offers chicken salad sandwiches, hot dogs, snacks, a variety of non-alcoholic beverages and more! Inside of the cozy, glass roundhouse, a fullservice bar provides a wide selection of well and top-shelf liquors, mixed drinks, wine, and, of course, a selection of our very own Beech Mountain Brewing Company beers are on tap. With such an array of choices, it is no wonder why 5506’ has become the go-to spot for skiers and snowboarders to take a break.

When the weather is just right, the roof on the glass roundhouse retracts to allow guests an event like no other. When retracted, the beautiful Carolina blue skies seem touchable and the warm rays of the sun envelop the soul. Not often can a more delightful experience be had than what is found when visiting 5506’.

In the summer, 5506’ is equally popular with mountain bikers, hikers, disc golfers, and visitors to

Regional Events & Destinations

eastern America’s highest town. All of the same amenities are offered and the option to take a scenic lift ride up and down the mountain allows for everyone to enjoy the highly popular spot. Be sure to snap a few panoramic photos of the beautiful views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. *5506’ is only accessible to skiers and snowboarders during the winter season. Guests visiting 5506’ must have a valid lift ticket, ride the chairlift up, and then guests are required to ski/snowboard down the mountain (there is no ride available for going down the chairlift). Please drink responsibly.

For more info, visit: www.beechmountainresort.com or call (800) 438-2093.

2 WATERFRONT LOCATIONS!!!

COME SEE US ON

lake norman

AND THE

catawba river

Open Tuesday - Sunday

RENTALS/SALES

Try Before You Buy

LESSONS

Intro to Paddleboard

CLASSES Yoga on the Water (Only at Lake Norman Shop)

GROUP EVENTS

Sunset & Night Paddles (Only at Lake Norman Shop)

LAKE NORMAN

17505 W. CATAWBA AVE. CORNELIUS, NC C ATAW B A R I V E R

1500 RIVER DRIVE BELMONT, NC

(OPENING APRIL 2017) Book Online:

paddleboardcharlotte.com

P H O N E : 70 4 . 41 2 . 2 9 9 9

theDestinationMag.com 704-706-2365

25

See A Living Shipwreck Without Ever Getting Wet

G

et up-close and personal with Blackbeard’s Queen Anne’s Revenge – no snorkel required. Five miles west of Atlantic Beach on the Crystal Coast, the North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores is open daily and houses three shipwreck exhibits that take visitors under the sea without ever leaving dry land. Replicas of a German U-boat, a 251-foot freighter and Blackbeard’s flagship have all come to rest in displays that contain a combined 386,000 gallons of water. Off the coast, sunken vessels like these form the foundation for complex marine communities. Aquarium visitors can catch a glimpse of aquatic life including fearsome-looking sand tiger sharks, colorful queen angelfish, sea turtles and more as they swim around the encrusted anchors and replica cannons that make up their homes.

26

#125

From the mountains to the sea… Feel the spray of a mountain waterfall. Watch river otters play.

Touch a stingray. Look a shark in the eye. See a rare white sea turtle.

Thousands of aquatic animals take you on a journey from the state’s grand peaks to the open Atlantic, much as a raindrop makes its way to the ocean.

NC Aquarium 1 Roosevelt Boulevard Pine Knoll Shores, NC 28512 www.ncaquariums.com

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.

Regional Events & Destinations

Surry Sonker Trail: 8 Places To Enjoy A Unique Dessert

T

he Surry Sonker Trail now has eight stops serving the county’s popular dessert. Southern On Main recently joined the trail after opening last summer in downtown Elkin.

S i m i l a r t o c o b b l e r, s o n k e r consists of cooked fruit and a crust.

Some have a liquid batter poured on top of the fruit, others have a rolled dough for their crust, and others are prepared on the stove top with a dropped-dumpling crust. Each recipe depends upon family tradition.

When Marla Stern, chef and owner of Southern On Main, learned about Surr y County ’s signature sonker, she called her mother to consult on a recipe. Stern grew up on a farm in Watauga County, and each summer her family canned and froze blueberries. That tradition led Stern to create a blueberry sonker that is the primary flavor offered at the restaurant.

The region’s sonker dates to the early 1800s. The dessert was a product of frugal home cooks who didn’t want to waste any over-ripe fruit.

“It’s so nice to be a part of a small town with a heritage that everyone cares about,” Stern says. “It’s nice to participate in the culture and traditions and be a part of keeping them alive.”

Located at the corner of Main and Bridges streets in downtown Elkin, Southern On Main serves upscale Southern comfort food in a casual atmosphere.

“I personally like a lot of crust on my sonker,” Stern says. “I tried several, and some had hardly any crust. But I make sure mine has plenty. I like to mess around with the recipes and mix them to come up with a favorite.”

The other seven stops on the Surry Sonker Trail are: Down Home Restaurant in Mount Airy, The Living Room Coffeehouse and Winebar in Pilot Mountain, Putters Patio & Grill in Dobson, Old North State Winery in Mount Airy, Miss Angel’s Heavenly Stern bakes her sonker in the Pies in Mount Airy, Rockford General oven and ser ves it war m with Store in Dobson, and Roxxi & Lulu’s a scoop of vanilla ice cream. In Bakery in Elkin. addition to blueberr y, she offers apple, peach and sweet potato To receive an updated Sonker Trail brochure map, call versions.

(800) 948-0949 or request it online at: www.SonkerTrail.org.

theDestinationMag.com 704-706-2365

27

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

the

Homepage - Calendar - Photos

New Exhibits, New Year Continued From Page 20

a glimpse of motorcycle histor y, preservation and restoration, not to mention the shared human interest stories of dozens of intriguing enthusiasts from around the world. Many of Dale’s videos have millions of views worldwide and interest in this type of educational and entertaining content is rapidly growing. Upgrading the Time Machine is now in motion for 2017 and beyond. The access is the same but we have changed the name to Dales Channel.

Our new member – the Lifetime Donorship – offering was kicked off in late 2016 with great success. We now have over 100 new member/ donors that are paving the way for future generations. Along with free admission for yourself and three friends, each Donor will receive an individually numbered and signed print of “The Discovery”, a David Uhl art piece of Dale Walksler discovering the rare Crocker Number 8. David Uhls art work has glorified the discovery of American history at the museum and we assure you this new distinctive member offering will exceed your every expectation. To learn more on how you can become a member by visiting our web page

On the subject of paving, another 2017 initiative is our outdoor FLOOR OF FAME. Coming soon see how you can become a permanent member and share your history at Wheels Through Time. There is a limited number of bricks, help us pave the future!

Once again we would like to thank all of our visitors past and future for making Wheels Through Time a memorable experience and welcome you to join us here this season.

62 Vintage Ln, Maggie Valley, NC 28751 www.wheelsthroughtime.com The Museum That Runs!

Wheels Through Time is a 501c3 Not-For-Profit institution

theDestinationMag.com 704-706-2365

29

Open April 1st 2017!

New Bikes, New Exhibits, New Fun!

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