Issue 080 November the Destination Magazine™

the Issue 80 Local & Regional Events & Destinations

Think Of It As A Medieval Mall Page 16

Fall At The Farm

Saddle Up History, Then Ride It Home

Make It More Than Just Buying A Tree

Leave The Mall, Shop Small

Not Your Everyday Bourbon, Beer & BBQ Destination

Yadkin Valley Winter Wine And Beer Passports Available

We Tell You Where To Go! theDestinationMag.com

Enjoy A Unique Menu In The Nation’s Sweet Potato Capital

A Tale Of Two Towns’ Adventures: Boone And Blowing Rock

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Regional Events & Destinations

Go Gaston. Get Outside.

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.

620 N. Main St., Belmont, NC | 800-849-9994 | 704-825-4044 #gogaston | gogaston.org

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November 2017 Issue 80

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The Destination Magazine™ is not a historical document, we will not write about spectacular events you’ve missed.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

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Contents DayTrip Destinations

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Fall At The Farm

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Think Of It As A Medieval Mall

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We know we are on to something!

Saddle Up History, Then Ride It Home

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Lisa & Andy Jay Publishers

Make It More Than Just Buying A Tree

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Leave The Mall, Shop Small

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Not Your Everyday Bourbon, Beer & BBQ Destination

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Yadkin Valley Winter Wine And Beer Passports Available

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Published by: Photodude.net Business Development: Lisa Jay Contributing Writers: Lisa Jay, Craig Distl, Kara McMillian, Amber Duckett, Project 543, RootsRated, Alexandra Love Contributing Photographers: Bill Russ, Andrew Zachary Digital Imagery, Olivia Binstead, Madison Hedrick, Ed Phillips, Ann Gibson, Todd Bush, Alexandra Love 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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Enjoy A Unique Menu In The Nation’s Sweet Potato Capital 26 A Tale Of Two Towns’ Adventures: Boone And Blowing Rock 29 Regional Events & Destinations

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Destinations

DayTrip Destinations Rural Hill A mazing Maize Maze Starts Saturday September 9th–Fri-Sat-Sun thru Nov 5th 4431 Neck Rd, Huntersville, NC 28078.

This Fall through November 5th.

Get lost in our giant seven-acre cor n maze featuring over two miles of interconnecting paths.

One of the largest in the Southeast, our maze is sure to please! www.ruralhill.net Carolina Renaissance Festival Weekends through Nov 19th 10am–5:30pm 16445 Poplar Tent Rd, Huntersville, NC 28078, The Carolina Renaissance Festival is a 16th centur y European style art and entertainment festival c o m b i n i n g o u t d o o r t h e a t e r, cir cus entertainment, arts and craf ts marketplace, a jousting tournament, a feast fit for royalty, and much much more. www.Carolina.RenFestInfo.com

first ever Philly & Beer Festival!

We’re combining two of our favorite things... tasty Duckworth’s Philly Cheesesteaks and over 20 Breweries and 40 Craf t Beers! www.huntersville.duckworths.com 150th A merican Watercolor Society Travel Exhibit Tue Nov 7th 9am–Fri Dec 22nd 9am Mooresville Arts Gallery, 103 W Center Ave, Mooresville, NC 28115. 40 paintings from the New York exhibit of the American Watercolor Society Travel (AWS) Exhibit will be on display.

The artists on display are among the top international watercolorists in the world. www.mooresvillearts.org

Paints, Pallets & Pints Thu Nov 9th 6:30pm–8:30pm Ghostface Brewing ~ Back room, 427 E Statesville Ave, Mooresville, NC 28115. Sip on your favorite drink while creating a custom piece of home decor! Southern Pallet Philly Cheesestea k & Brew Creations will walk you through Festival! Sat Nov 4th 11am–4pm the steps to creating a beautiful, Duckworth’s Grill & Taphouse rustic pallet sign to display in your “ParkingLot”, 16609 Statesville Rd, home. Theme is “Give Thanks” UNIQUELY CRAFTED BEERS Huntersville, NC 28078. Duckworth’s $25/person.

This price includes a

FALL FEST 12 1-7 Craft Beer Food & Fun SUNDAY NOVEMBER

cor neliusdrafthouse.com

Local Craft Beer, bounce houses, LIVE music and a great afternoon of family fun.

19818-C NORTH COVE ROAD, CORNELIUS (704) 560-7874 6

Regional Events & Destinations

Destinations 14”x14” pallet board, a vinyl stencil with your chosen design, and twine to hang your pallet. S.P.C. provides a variety of stains, paint colors for you to customize your pallet creation. www.ghostfacebrewing.com Port City RibFest Fri Nov 10th–Sun 12th Carolina Beach Boardwalk, Cape Fear Blvd & Carolina Beach Ave S, Carolina Beach, NC 28428.

Teams featured on national TV food channels have previously participated in this celebration of culinary skill and competition for the People’s Choice Champion.

“Ribbers” from across the nation will bring the heat with a variety of meat selections and styles, including Memphis, Texas and Chicago-style BBQ. Enjoy live entertainment lined up for the weekend as well as brews and a market with unique vendors to start your holiday shopping. www.wilmingtonandbeaches.com Outer Banks Marathon & Southern Fried Half Marathon 8K | 5K | Fun Run | Southern 6 Fri Nov 10th–Sun 12th Nags Head, NC 27959. Come run with us and cover some spectacular ground!

After finishing the Outer Banks Marathon, you will have run one of the most beautiful parts of the East Coast – but don’t take our word for it – come see for yourself!

T h e To w n e B a n k O u t e r B a n k s Marathon is a Boston Marathon qualifying race. There is something for everyone: • TowneBank Outer Banks Marathon • Southern Fried Half Marathon • Southern 6 • Take the Challenge! • 8K & 5K • Family Fun Run. Medals for all finishers! www.outerbanksmarathon.com Continued On Page 8

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704-465-5527

The Premier Therapeutic Massage Studio of Lake Norman

LIVE MUSIC Wednesday Thru Sunday www.drinklivemusic.com

Trivia Trivia Every Every Tuesday Tuesday

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

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Destinations Continued From Page 7

14th Annual Mid Pines Hickory Open Fri Nov 10th–Sun 12th 1010 Midland Rd, Southern Pines, NC 28387. Mid Pines is one of the few courses in America that harkens back to the early days of golf in the 1920’s. For the last 13 years, we have embraced that era when we host one of the most popular Hickory events of the season. Get your plus fours, step back in history and see what golf was really like in the golden era. The Mid Pines Hickory Open hosts golfers every November who are dedicated to the tradition of golf. Players compete on Mid Pines with hickory-shafted clubs and dress in period clothing. www.pineneedles-midpines.com

food vendors, shopping, open trails, antique tractors, living history demonstrations in the 1760’s cabin, pumpkin chunkin’, corn launchin’, kid’s activities, and much more! www.ruralhill.net

Ro c k y Face Ro c k Cl i mbi n g Festival & Trail Race Sat Nov 11th 8am–6pm Rocky Face Park, 3451 Rocky Face Church Rd, Hiddenite, NC 28636. This day-long event features free rock climbing classes, climbing competitions, trail races, live music, food, and more! Rock climbing classes are set for 9am and 10:45am. (pre-registration required), and competitions are all day. The Run for the Dogs Trail Race starts the day at 8:30am, with 4-mile, 8-mile, Rural Hill Sheepdog Trials and and 12-mile distances. All activities Dog Festival Nov 11-12th 8am– will be held at Rocky Face Park.

5pm Historic Rural Hill, 4431 Neck www.rockyfacepark.com Rd, Huntersville, NC 28078. Don’t miss a thing! National Border Collie 2017 W heels Through Time Sheepherding Championships and Motorcycle Raffle Sat Nov 11th Carolina Dock Dogs competitions 9am–5pm Wheels Through Time will be held over the two day event Motorcycle Museum, 62 Vintage as will the Dog Sports demonstra- Ln, Maggie Valley, NC 28751. The tions and more! Also on hand will Wheels Through Time is pleased be North Carolina beer and wine, to introduce the 2017 Annual Raffle heritage breed livestock, hay rides, Bike – a classic black and chrome historic craft and cooking demos, 1948 Harley-Davidson Panhead

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ummit Place of Mooresville is a senior living community offering assisted living as well as Five Star’s award-winning Bridge to Rediscovery program for people with Alzheimer’s or related dementias, rehabilitation services, and respite/short stays, all in one location.

704-799-2712 ~ www.SummitPlaceOfMooresville.com 128 Brawley School Road Mooresville, NC 28117

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Regional Events & Destinations

Destinations Springer! The drawing will take place in front of a live audience OR you can also watch the event Live on our Facebook Page. We hope to see you on Raffle Day and Thank You for supporting The Wheels Through Time! www.wheelsthroughtime.com Craft Beer Fall Fest Sun Nov 12th 1pm–7pm Jetton Village Square in front of Cornelius Draft House, 19818 N Cove Rd, Cornelius, NC 28031. Join us for an afternoon of cold brews, food, and fun at Jetton Village Square in front of Cornelius Drafthouse on Sunday November 12 from 1-7pm. Bring the family, lawn chairs and have some fun! 12 Breweries On-site and Food, LIVE MUSIC, L awn Games & Bouncehouses

for the Kids. www.facebook.com/ CorneliusDrafthouse/ 10 t h A n n u a l C e l e b r a t i o n of Seagrove Pot ters Fri Nov 17th–Sun 19th 798 Potters Way Rd, Seagrove, NC 27341. Seagrove Potters are fired up and ready to celebrate. This premier event is a collectors paradise of unique art pieces, pottery for your home and much more. Festivities kick off Friday night with a Gala, Live Auction and Potters Market. Enjoy an evening full of entertainment with live 15 piece jazz band, food, craft beer and wine.

Be the first to bid on this year’s 10th anniversary commemorative platter signed by the Seagrove Potters.

Come early – the first 100 Gala Continued On Page 10

Luxury & Performance at the Lake!

RANDYMARIONCADILLAC.COM Visit Randy Marion Cadillac for all your service, parts and accessory needs

220 W. Plaza Drive I-77, Exit 36, Hwy.150

Open 7:30 am - 8:00 pm Weekdays 8:00 am - 4:00 pm Saturday

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Destinations Continued From Page 8

guests will receive a commemorative mug made by Seagrove Potters.

The festival continues Saturday and Sunday with the potters market, demonstrations, children’s activities, food trucks, silent auction on Saturday and Sunday beer garden.

Proceeds from the auctions support the local potter y community’s pursuit of art and education. www.discoverseagrove.com

427 E Statesville Ave, Mooresville, NC 28115. We will be unleashing 7 new beers never before on tap. R&D tasters will vote on their favorite and we will put the winning beer into production. This time around R & D tasters will have the opportunity to name a beer! There will be unlimited tastings for 2 hours and raffle prizes to give away and each ticket holder will get their own R&D Pint glass to take home! Must be 21 Holidays at the Garden Fri Nov or older. Limited Tickets Available!

17th–Sun Dec 31st Daniel Stowe Purchase on Eventbrite or at the bar!

Botanical Garden, 6500 S New www.ghostfacebrewing.com Hope Rd, Belmont, NC 28012. From sparkling pathways and plants to Christmas Tree Farm Choose glimmering fountains, discover a & Cut Season Sat Nov 18th–Sun memory-making glow at Holidays Dec 24th 58 S Main St, Sparta, NC at the Garden. Enjoy traditional fa- 28675. A trip up the Blue Ridge vorites such as the towering Orchid Mountains to Sparta and Alleghany Tree, horse-drawn carriage rides, County is a great way to get in the one-of-a-kind train displays, hot Christmas spirit. This is an activity cocoa and special visits with Santa the entire family will enjoy and the as well as the children’s garden, pastoral countryside and the quaint Lost Hollow, lit to its brim with town of Sparta will only add to more than 600,000 lights in celebra- your holiday spirit. Plus you get the tion of the winter holiday season. fresh-cut advantage with your tree. www.dsbg.org Our local choose and cut tree farms provide a wonderful experience R & D (Research & Drinking) for your whole family! Go for a hay Tasting Event Fri Nov 17th 8pm– ride, let your children visit with farm 10pm Ghostface Brewing Backroom, animals, or have a cup of steaming

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frances dawson

REALTOR, BROKER, GRI, SRES

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

Destinations hot chocolate while enjoying a relaxing day with one of our local tree growers. There are many options to choose from! Drop by the Chamber of Commerce Visitor’s Center for a list of farms or check our website. www.sparta-nc.com B a y n e s g i v i n g 2 017 Sat Nov 18th 12pm–10pm Bayne Brewing, 19507 W Catawba Ave, Cornelius, NC 28031. Our third annual fall party we’re going to have a “special release beer ”, Carolina Smash Truck from 1-4. Come enjoy the family fun, bring the kids, we’ll have bounce houses, a face painter, drink some beer, have a great time! www.facebook.com/baynebrew/

Rural Hill Oyster Roast Sun Nov 19th 1pm–4pm 4431 Neck Rd, Huntersville, NC 28078. Say goodbye to Fall and hello to Winter with a basket or two of perfectly seasoned oysters roasted on site by nationally recognized chef and award winning author Dan Huntley. Huntley specializes in bringing Southern food traditions such as pig pickings, oyster roasts, catfish frys, and Lowcountry shrimp boils to crowds around the region. NOTE: Oysters must be pre-ordered prior to the event. Food, drink, live music, bonfires, hayrides and more make for a great way to wrap up the 2017 festival season at Historic Rural Hill. We’ll see you there! www.ruralhill.net Continued On Page 12

www.duckworths.com

Ballantyne Charlotte Mooresville Huntersville Uptown

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Destinations Continued From Page 11

Mooresville Christmas Parade Tue Nov 21st 3pm–5pm Downtown Mooresville, S Main St, Mooresville, NC 28115. The Mooresville Parade features floats, marching bands, dance & tumbling troupes, all kinds of vintage and modern modes of transport, plus plenty of fun and entertainment for the family. No charge to attend. Bring your family, lawn chairs, blankets and dress warm!

For information on being a part of the parade–you can apply online www.mooresvillechristmasparade. com Trail of Lights Wed Nov 22nd–Dec 24th 6pm–9pm 401 Church St NW, Valdese, NC 28690. In its 12th year, this event continues to be a favorite of the holiday season. Using more than 100,000 lights, this beautiful Christmas light display is unique because it not only showcases the traditional Christmas theme but also includes several displays intertwined with Waldensian Culture. The gift shop is open and ready to ser ve hot chocolate. Volunteers are very knowledgeable in Waldensian history. www.townofvaldese.com

North Carolina Holiday Flotilla at Wrightsville Beach Fri Nov 24th–Sat 25th Wrightsville Beach To w n Pa r k , 1 B o b S a w y e r D r, Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480.

When was the last time you spent Thanksgiving at the beach? Spend your holiday at the coast and stay the weekend to celebrate at the annual North Carolina Holiday Flotilla filled with fun events for the whole family.

This Southeast Tourism Society Top 20 Event features a Friday launch party with The Embers and tree lighting ceremony complete with a visit from Santa and the Saturday Festival in the Park with arts and craft vendors and the popular Arab Choo Choo. The main event, the lighted boat parade, typically features 30 boats decked out in Christmas lights, decorations and costumes begins at 6pm and is followed by a spectacular fireworks show. www.wilmingtonandbeaches.com Z o ot a s t ic Pa rk’s 8 t h A n nual Christmas Wonderland of Lights Fri Nov 24th–Mon Jan 1st 2018 Zootastic Park, 448 Pilch Rd, Troutman, NC 28166. The Christmas Wonderland of Lights features over 3.5 Million Lights

Artisan Coffee Artisan Pastries Holiday Pies!

19905 W. Catawba Ave. Cornelius, NC 28031

704-439-0996 MaddysFattys.com 12

Regional Events & Destinations

Destinations 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 Holiday Downtown Lighting Celebration Fri Nov 24th 5:30pm– 7pm 145 5th Ave E, Hendersonville, NC 28792. The lighting of downtown holiday lights and Santa’s arrival kick off the holiday season in downtown Hendersonville. The evening features entertainment, sing-along, hot chocolate and a visit from Santa Claus at the historic courthouse on Main Street. www.downtownhendersonville.org

Santa on the Chimney Sat Dec 9th 11am–2pm Chimney Rock at Chimney Rock State Park, 431 Main St, Chimney Rock, NC 28720. Santa has to be nimble and quick to make it down ever yone’s chimney on Christmas Eve. What better place to get some practice and stay in shape than on one of the world’s largest chimneys at Chimney Rock State Park. Make your list and bring it to Santa and Mrs. Claus, enjoy live holiday music, hot cocoa, cookies and kids’ activities, meet live Park animal educators and more. www.chimneyrockpark.com

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Regional Events & Destinations

Fall At The Farm Events at Historic Rural Hill

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ome out to the farm on Sunday, November 19th to say goodbye to Fall and hello to Winter with a basket or two of perfectly seasoned oysters roasted on site by nationally recognized chef and award winning author Dan Huntley. Huntley specializes in bringing Southern food traditions such as pig pickings, oyster roasts, catfish frys, and Lowcountry shrimp boils to crowds around the region.

Don’t miss a thing! National Border Collie Sheepherding Championships and Carolina Dock Dogs competitions will be held over the two day event as will the Dog Sports demonstrations and more! Also on hand will be North Carolina beer and wine, heritage breed livestock, hay rides, historic craft and cooking demos, food vendors, shopping, open trails, Each $10.00 ticket you purchase antique tractors, living histor y is good for one basket of 8-10 demonstrations in the 1760’s cabin, s t e a m e d o y s t e r s , w i t h l e m o n , pumpkin chunkin’, corn launchin’, cocktail sauce and crackers. kid’s activities, and much more!

This event is a benefit dinner for Historic Rural Hill and your support is appreciated. Rural Hill is a 501-c-3 non-profit organization and this event is helping to raise funds that will help support our educational programs, farming, and historic preservation efforts. Thank you so much for your support!

There is no entry fee but orders for Oysters MUST be made prior to the event. Events will take place rain or shine. For information, directions, and event information visit www.ruralhill.com.

The Rural Hill Sheepdog Trials will take place the weekend of November 11-12 featuring the United States Border Collie Handlers’ Association, Carolina Dock Dogs, dog sports demonstrations, and more!

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.

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Think Of It As A Medieval Mall Hand Crafted Holiday Gifts For All!

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hop an extensive array of craft vendors offering home dĂŠcor, jewelry, clothing of renaissance and medieval fashion, blown and torched glass, handmade art and potter y. There are also activities for children of all ages that include people powered amusement rides and countryside faire games such as the castle climbing wall, archery and tomato tossing at a fool.

The Food Court of Fairhaven offers an endless feast of bread bowl stews, premium meats on sticks, sweet treats and confections, and a favorite of all renaissance wanderers: a bag of cinnamonroasted almonds! Festival pubs offer variety of Pepsi products, craft beer, wine, champagne, ale, honey mead, lemonade and Medieval Margaritas acrobats, the Ancient Art of Falconry, to compliment the day-long feast of and the popular jousting tournament hearty foods fit for royalty! with horse mounted armored knights are all examples of the continuous Medieval mall music is provided entertainment options offered. Many through twelve stages of costumed of the shows are spontaneous and performers offering continuous you will never know what happens music, dance, comedy, and circus next, on stage or off. entertainments. Unbalanced

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Regional Events & Destinations

Each year the Carolina Renaissance Festival adds new entertainments and upgraded facilities for visitor enjoyment. New additions for 2017 include The CRAIC Show! They are a high energy & wildly entertaining band that brings a sound that is unlike any other!

The final weekend presents an opportunity to save big on unique holiday gifts at the Festival’s artisan marketplace with many of the craft shops offering discount pricing on a diverse selection of handmade Continued On Page 27 The 24th Annual Carolina Renaissance Festival.

North of Charlotte between Concord and Huntersville.

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

Eight consecutive weekends, Saturdays and Sundays, from September 30th through November 19th,.

The Festival runs from 10am until 5:30pm, rain or shine.

Children under 5 are always free. Parking is free courtesy of Harris Teeter. Visit us online at carolina.renfestinfo.com, or call ( toll free (877) 896-5544.

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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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Saddle Up History, Then Ride It Home

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ex was and still is an American motorcycling legend. He rode motorcycles, he raced motorcycles, he built motorcycles, and he sold motorcycles. In 1948, Tex bought a brand new HarleyDavidson Springer Deluxe and it was his favorite to ride among his dozens of motorcycles. In later years he scrapped out the bike but saved the engine and planned to rebuild the bike one day. Fast forward to 2010, Tex asked me to purchase all of his old parts from his parts shed.

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Having a good idea of what kind of bikes and engines were in this shed, I accepted his offer. One thing that Tex was particularly proud of was his old ’48 Panhead Engine. As I squatted Continued On Page 23 2017 RAFFLE BIKE and PRIZES The gorgeous ’48 could be yours on November 11, 2017 Grand prize–1948 HarleyDavidson Panhead Second prize–20,000 cash Third prize–10,000 cash 62 Vintage Ln, Maggie Valley, NC 28751 www.wheelsthroughtime.com

Regional Events & Destinations

Make It More Than Just Buying A Tree

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hristmas is just weeks away.

This year, instead of pulling out an artificial tree from the attic, why not buy a real Christmas tree. It will fill your house with a wonderful aroma, and give your home a truly festive feel.

You can find Christmas trees at big box stores and tree lots across the state. However, for an authentic Christmas experience, nothing compares to piling the kids in the car, driving to a choose-and-cut Christmas tree farm, and selecting a beautiful tree to take home with you.

The tree is the reason to go, but you’ll also find that many farms now offer additional holiday experiences for your family to enjoy. Everything from handmade crafts and hot chocolate to Santa sightings and sleigh rides. More importantly, choose-and-cut farms offer a lasting family memory you’ll cherish for years to come.

There are more than 100 choose-and-cut farms across the state, and the majority are just a short drive from Charlotte. Most of the farms are located in the mountains, but you also can find Christmas tree farms across the Piedmont, and even near the coast.

For a complete listing, visit N C Fa r m F r e s h . c o m , Yo u c a n get directions, look up hours

of operations and find contact information for each farm. It’s always a good rule of thumb to call before you go to find out about special events happening at the farm.

Once you get your tree home, you should be able to enjoy it for up to two months with proper attention. The N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services offers the following tips to care for your real Christmas tree this holiday season: • If you can’t set up your tree immediately, put it in a bucket of water in a cool, shady place.

• Cut off a half inch from the base of the tree before placing it in a stand.

• Check the water levels often. A tree may take up to a gallon of water in the first 24 hours, and a quart per day after that.

• Place tree away from heat sources, such as heating vents, fireplaces, wood stoves, radiators and sunny windows.

• Turn off lights before leaving home or going to bed.

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Leave The Mall, Shop Small

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s you begin making (and checking off) those holiday wish lists, you are going to want to be certain to check out these small town shops in Gaston County.

Each not only have unique and beautiful products, but their owners are incredibly special, as well.

115 Main Gifts and Provisions McAdenville, NC 115 Main is one of my new favorite spots. This adorable shop just recently opened it’s doors in the coziest space, right in the heart of Christmastown, USA. The vast variety of products they offer is truly amazing. Shop owner, Mona Fore, has worked exceptionally hard to make certain her collection holds a little something for everyone. are able to give a beautiful, unique gift and best of all, you create and Hive Design Gastonia, NC build it yourself! Their workshops are Hive Design has become one of fun, provide plenty of assistance in my most frequented shops. Owner, the event you are little uncoordinated Merr yman Cassels, has the best with power tools (like me) and collection of stationary and gifts. The you’ll walk away at the end with Hive is known for their sandblasting, a gorgeous piece and the pride of but I don’t believe there is anything knowing you created it yourself. they couldn’t personalize for you.

Their variety of products is perfect Victoria-Cole Gifts for anyone you may be shopping for Cherryville, NC this season, or you may even want Victoria-Cole is one of my most to check it out if you’re starting to recent finds. The shop feels magical think about your family Christmas and whimsical the moment you walk cards. The Hive is what the buzz is through the door. The shop is nestled all about! among the historic buildings on Main Street in Cherryville. Like the other AR Workshop Belmont, NC shops I have included here, what’s Have you considered a gift a to love most of all is that there is little more personal for this holiday something for everyone. Candles, season? At Ryann Fairweather and bath bombs, home decor, you name Maureen Anders’ AR Workshop, you it and Victoria-Cole has it for you.

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Regional Events & Destinations

Create In Us Mount Holly, NC Last, but certainly not least, Create in Us will always be one of my favorite shops. They create gorgeous wood cut outs in perfect script lettering to display on your wall. Perhaps, the word “gather” in your dining room would fit nicely?

They also sell an array of unique local products that are a must have!

Whatever your shopping needs are this season, why not try shopping small first?

– Alexandra Love To discover, fall in love with and live in Gaston County, check out our website at www.lovegaston.com. See full galleries of photography, find out more about the Writer/ Realtor/Photographer, meet more local business owners and see our favorite things Gaston County has to offer.

Continued On Page 21

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Decompression Destination

Not Your Everyday Bourbon, Beer & BBQ Destination

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he trick to being a restaurant Bourbon bloody mar y with legacy is having the perfect bacon, bourbon based margaritas, b a l a n c e o f t r a d i t i o n , y e t a red-eye made with a zombie? Yes, consistently evolving. these and more are the base for Jeff Lancaster’s craft cocktail creations.

So, in a place where you can watch a Panther’s game, eat some To compliment the high end perfect pulled pork, while sitting spirits being offered at the Bourbon inside a school bus (yes, I actually Station are over a dozen rotating taps mean “inside a school bus”) then pouring craft beers from around the you can understand why Lancaster’s country. From light to dark, if their is a landmark. is a buzz about a new beer in the country you’ll probably find it on Remember when being sent to tap here. sit in the corner was a bad thing?

Oh how things have changed! The If you are new to the cult of fine Bourbon Station in the back corner whiskey, bourbon and beer like of Lancaster’s Eastern Style BBQ most people are, Lancaster’s offers Mooresville is an adult indulgence “flights” which are several small to be sought whether you have been samples lined up so you can taste, naughty or nice, but we prefer nice. compare and pick your favorite.

The Bourbon Station is the place to find bourbon & whiskey based hand crafted cocktails that are on the cutting edge of creativity.

Lancaster’s Eastern Style BBQ 515 Rinehardt Rd.Mooresville, NC www.lancastersbbq.com

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Regional Events & Destinations

Saddle Up History Continued From Page 18

Ticket specials are 1 ticket for $10 and 3 tickets for $20, and our best down to pick up the gorgeous motor, package gets you 7 tickets for $50, he asked “Dale, will you promise with a Free Short-sleeve WTT T-shirt me that you’ll make this motor run and DVD. and shine like it used to?” Without hesitation, I said ” Tex, you have my The drawing will take place word that this bike will look and run in front of a live audience at The like it did in 1948!” With a smile on Wheels Through Time Museum in his face, he replied “I know you will, Maggie Valley, North Carolina.

Dale. I know you will.” Five years went by and then one late night in So get in on the 2017 WTT Raffle the shop I decided that Tex would Today! Not only will you have a live again. I pulled out a ’48 Frame, chance to win a piece of motorcycle a ’48 fork, and the essential parts history, but you’ll be supporting the needed to build the bike and went great cause of keeping America’s to work. 250 hours later, the black transportation heritage on two and chrome 1948 Harley-Davidson wheels for generations to come!

Panhead Springer, now known as 62 Vintage Ln, Maggie “Tex”, had come back to life. The Valley, NC 28751 overall package is stunning and there www.wheelsthroughtime.com The Museum That Runs! are more surprises coming on this Wheels Through Time is a “American Restoration.”

501c3 Not-For-Profit institution

Breakfast • Lunch • Dinner Boat Slips Available!

828.478.3078

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Yadkin Valley Winter Wine And Beer Passports Available

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heck out a variety of Yadkin Valley wineries this winter and save money along the way with Winter Wine & Beer Passports from the Surry Wineries association.

Grassy Creek Vineyard & Winery, Roaring River Vineyards, Round Peak Vineyards, Skull Camp Brewery and Winery, Slightly Askew Winery and Stony Knoll Vineyards. All are located in Surry County in the heart The passports, which can be of the Yadkin Valley wine region. purchased for individuals or couples, provide a tasting at each of the 10 “The quality and variety found participating wineries and breweries in the Yadkin Valley is impressive,” from Nov. 24 of this year through says Pat Colwell of Carolina Heritage March 18, 2018. Passport holders Vineyard and Winery in Elkin. “You also receive a keepsake gift at each name a grape, and I’ll point you to winery and brewery. a winery that makes wine from it.”

Other perks include special wine and food pairings on designated weekends in Januar y, Februar y and March, as well as specials at area restaurants and business, plus lodging discounts at six different locations.

Pa s s p o r t s a r e o n s a l e n o w through the end of the program.

Those who purchase passports through Nov. 23 receive early-bird rates of $54 for individuals and $89 couples. As of Nov. 24, the prices revert to standard rates $64 for individuals and $99 for couples. The Pa r t i c i p a t i n g w i n e r i e s a n d estimated value of each passport is breweries this year are: Adagio $225.

Vineyards, Angr y Troll Brewer y, Carolina Heritage Vineyard & “We encourage people to buy Winer y, Elkin Creek Vineyards, them early so they have as much

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Regional Events & Destinations

flexibility as possible to enjoy every winery and brewery throughout the time period,� Colwell says.

Passports may be purchased at participating wineries and breweries, or online at www.SurryWineries. com. Additional details about the program are available by calling (336) 366-3301.

For general tourism information about the region, check out www.YadkinValleyNC.com.

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Enjoy A Unique Menu In The Nation’s Sweet Potato Capital

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or an appetizing journey into authentic Southern food, look no further than Sweet Potatoes – not just the vegetable, but also the award-winning home cooking restaurant in Winston-Salem.

Fr o m s w e e t p o t a t o p a n c a k e s topped with fried chicken tenders to sweet potato cornbread ser ved with buttermilk, the spuds are abundant throughout the br unch, lunch and dinner menus. It’s fitting as North Carolina is the No. 1 producer of sweet potatoes i n t h e c o u n t r y.

S w e e t potatoes aren’t the only thing o n t h e m e n u .

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Mouthwatering grits, Dr unken Pork Chops ser ved with apple brandy gravy and a Bayou Bowl are all competing for your s e l e c t i o n . Tr y y o u r h a n d a t these sweet potato recipes with the Sweet Potatoes Restaurant Cookbook.

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

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

Regional Events & Destinations

Medieval Mall Continued From Page 17

gift items. The marketplace features potter y, jewelr y, perfume, glass blown ornaments, smoking ceramic dragons, bath & body products, medieval costumes, hand dipped and carved candles, unique musical instruments, children’s toys, a full spectrum of clothing, and much more.

Don’t miss your last chance of the year to enjoy your best shopping day out in history. Huzzah!

WE ARE NORTH CAROLINA’S

#1 TOYHAULER DEALER!

CONCORD, NC • MARION, NC

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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

A Tale Of Two Towns’ Adventures: Boone And Blowing Rock

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mountain vacation to North Carolina’s High Countr y promises stunning vistas, ancient charm, fresh air and locally sourced food that incorporate the region’s agricultural gems. Get to know Boone and Blowing Rock, neighboring mountain towns where you’ll enjoy outdoor fun by day; and by night, kick back with local brews and sunset views.

Choose your place to stay based on the type of mountain charm you’re going for. Find plenty of cabin rentals in Boone, from rustic to amenity-filled. Or stay at Blowing Rock’s Westglow Resort and Spa’s manor, named by Travel + Leisure as one of the top spa resorts in the world. Or choose a private cottage or guest room in the farmhouse at Mast Farm Inn in nearby Banner Elk.

starts with you pulling the ripcord.

You can’t miss what’s next to High Gravity Adventures: Tweetsie Railroad, a Wild West-themed amusement park that’s one of the most popular attractions in the state.

Since the Blue Ridge Parkway cuts between Blowing Rock and Boone, consider booking a guided horseback ride on the miles of bridle trails along this iconic roadway. Sky Valley Zip Tour is also central to both mountain towns and comes with the added bonus of an ATV ride to and from the course.

Continue your exploration with Wahoo’s Adventures, which offers tubing, canoeing, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding on the New River, and all the equipment you’ll need is available for rent. For a more serene experience, spend time at Price Lake, where the water activities are rivaled by the hiking trails. Hiking opportunities abound in the area, whether you opt for the renowned Linville Gorge or Otter Falls Trail, which debuted in 2015.

Only eight miles separate Boone and Blowing Rock, and situated smack dab between the two sits High Gravity Adventures, an aerial adventure park with a 30-minute ground course and two aerial courses that take two to three hours to complete. Add on a 45-foot-high, Because you worked up an giant swing – three people can ride appetite, order dinner with a side of it at once – for an extra thrill that live music at Woodlands Barbeque, Continued On Page 30

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Tale of two towns Continued From Page 29

causes. AMB also brews ciders, while Lost Province pairs its suds with in Blowing Rock, featuring local wood-fired pretzels, pizzas, and even musicians every night and barbecue wood-fired mac and cheese. plates that come with three sides and hush puppies. Not in the mood You’d be remiss if you didn’t for ’que? Nearby Foggy Rock Eatery encounter the folklore of the area’s and Pub offers cheesesteaks, funky most iconic figure: Daniel Boone. burgers like blackberry habanero, Dine at Dan’l Boone Inn, a staple of and naans (Indian flatbreads). Southern food for more than a halfBlowing Rock Brewing Company is century. Then watch his story come a popular stop downtown, where its to life in the outdoor drama Horn in Ale House Restaurant serves award- the West, showing six nights a week winning craft beer, and all items on during the summer season (closed the food menu are made fresh daily. Mondays). Learn how Boone and fellow settlers survived in the Blue Craft beer is also a centerpiece Ridge Mountains in the years before o f e v e n i n g s i n B o o n e , l e d b y the Revolutionary War and helped Appalachian Mountain Brewery and shape the region’s destiny.

Lost Province Brewing Co. Each pays Shawndra Russell is a travel writer homage to the High Country, both in and novelist based in Asheville name and through commitment to and has written for Forbes Travel sustainable practices and supporting Guide.

VisitNC.com the mountain community and its

Andrew Zachary Digital Imagery

CANVAS PRINTS A DIFFERENT FROM YOUR

PERSPECTIVE

PHOTOS

AERIAL PORTRAIT ANDREWZACHARY.COM 704.706.2365 You LAKE NORMAN / GREENSBORO EVENT FAMILYWe Tell 30

Where To Go!

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HUNTERSVILLE

MOORESVILLE

9230 Beatties Ford Road

515 Rinehardt Road

L ANCASTERS BBQ.COM

lunch

X

dinner

X

full bar

X

good times

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