Issue 098 May the Destination Magazine™

the Issue 98 Local & Regional Destinations & Experiences

In This Issue

Water Recreation Destinations

We Tell You Where To Go!

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Local & Regional Destinations & Experiences

For the outdoor enthusiast in all of us, Gaston County offers peaceful trails for you to explore, some of them on the water. Let us help you unplug this weekend and connect you with our County’s numerous natural experiences.

Stop by our Visitors Center or call us today for a FREE Blueways Trail map.

GASTON COUNTY, NC

GO GASTON. GET OUTSIDE.

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

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May 2019 Issue 98

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, destinations and experiences in the Destination Magazine™ that will give you memories for a lifetime The Destination Magazine™ is about new destinations and experiences to discover on your own, or outings with friends and family. We hope you will find a new memorable experience ever y month in the Destination Magazine™ .

We know we are on to something!

Lisa & Andy Jay Publishers Published by: Magic Table Media Group LLC Business Development: Lisa Jay Contributing Writers: Lisa Jay, Craig Distl, Kara McMillan, Leah Hughes, RootsRated Media Contributing Photographers: Andrew Zachary Digital Imagery, Paul Newton Cover: Lake James - DiscoverBurkeCounty.com 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 Magic Table Media Group LLC 369 Dovefield Drive Summer field, NC 27358 (704) 706-2365 www.theDestinationMagazine.com ©2019 All rights reserved. Magic Table Media Group LLC, 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 manmade disaster, etc., that are out of the control of the Publisher, which affect the publishing of this magazine.

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DayTrip Destinations Transform Your Landscape With Hendersonville’s Garden Jubilee North Carolina Brewers & Music Festival June Family Fun Month Returns To Beech Mountain Destination: Valdese 6 Weekend Adventures For The Whole Family In Gaston County Get Wet in Nature’s Playground Blaze A Trail To Elkin For The NC Trail Days Festival Banner Elk Art Show Is The Perfect Getaway This Month Surry County: Four Rivers Run Through It Blueways To Bluegrass, Splash Into The Dan River In Stokes Oink & Ale! Cheers To The Carolina Craft Beverage Trail Passport Spring Grown & Gathered For Your Pleasure Paddle, Pedal, Swim, Sip, Enjoy.

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Local & Regional Destinations & Experiences

May 25 & 26, 2019 9am - 5pm

Free

Admission!

Downtown Hendersonville, NC Leave your pets comfortably at home Lawn/garden accessories

Sponsored by:

Garden clinics Arts & crafts Over 250 vendors 1000s of plants for sale Plenty of food

800.828.4244

VisitHendersonvilleNC.org

Destinations

DayTrip Destinations Budbreak Wine & Craft Beer Festival May 4, 12pm–6pm Downtown Mount Airy, N.C. budbreakfestival.com

Valdese Farmers Market May 24, 11am–4pm Old Rock School, 400 Main St W Valdese, N.C. visitvaldese.com

Jomeokee Marketplace Spring 2019 May 4, 10am–May 5, 4pm Jomeokee Park, 1140 Paces Place Rd Pinnacle, N.C. NCTDM.com

Garden Jubilee May 25–26 Hendersonville Visitor Center, 201 S Main St Hendersonville, N.C. visithendersonvillenc.org

Concerts on the Green May 5 & 19, June 2 & 9, Davidson N.C. concertsonthegreen.com

Art on the Green May 25–26, Banner Elk, North Carolina Banner Elk, N.C. bannerelk.com

North Carolina Brewers and Music Festival May 10–11 Rural Hill 4431 Neck Rd, Huntersville, N.C. NCTDM.com

BOWs – Granville Bridal Tour May 26, 11am–6pm Clarion Inn & Suites, 913 Martin Luther King Jr. Ave Oxford, N.C. NCTDM.com

36th Annual Race City Festival May 11, 9am–5pm Downtown Mooresville, N.C. NCTDM.com

N.C. Trail Days May 31–June 2, Elkin, N.C. nctraildays.com

4th Annual Oink & Ale May 11, 6pm–9pm Downtown Washington st. Eden, N.C. exploreedennc.com Mayberry Farm Fest and Tractor Parade May 17, 6pm–7:30pm Downtown Mount Airy, N.C. www.mountairydowntown.org

FFN Summer Concert Series May 31, 7pm–10pm 400 Main St. Valdese, N.C. visitvaldese.com June Family Fun Month Beech Mountain, N.C. BeechMtn.com Liver Mush Festival June 1, Downtown Marion N.C. NCTDM.com

Yadkin Valley Wine Festival May 18, 11am–5pm Elkin Municipal Park, 399 Highway 268 West Elkin, N.C. yvwf.com Spring Grown & Gathered May 23, 7pm–10pm 413 Church Street Eden, N.C. exploreedennc.com

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Local & Regional Destinations & Experiences

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Transform Your Landscape With Hendersonville’s Garden Jubilee

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hether you’re looking to grow your own vegetables, add an outdoor living space to your backyard or bring color into your landscape, Garden Jubilee is the place to be this Memorial Day weekend. Now in its 26th year, Hendersonville’s premiere lawn-and-garden show returns to Main Street May 25-26.

More than 260 vendors turn eight blocks into a lush oasis with thousands of annuals, perennials, vegetables and herbs. Other outdoor must-haves, such as lawn furniture, gardening tools and yard art, complement the plants for sale.

Garden Jubilee draws approximately 200,000 people each year.

Visitors have come to expect a good variety of top-quality vendors, as well as a fun, welcoming environment.

Hospitality tents on each end of Main Street hold customers purchases while they continue to shop, and attendants are stationed on each block to answer questions.

Throughout the day Saturday and Sunday, gardening experts take the stage at the Visitor Center to present 30-minute sessions on a variety of

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topics, such as native plants and pollinators, caring for fescue lawns, composting 101, and beginning vegetable gardening.

“We bring in a lot of experts to educate people on what is best for their specific yards,” Carden says.

The weekend’s gardening theme extends beyond the show itself. The Gallery at Flat Rock presents Art in Bloom, May 25-27 with an opening evening preview on May 24. The exhibit pairs 20 floral designers with 20 works of art. The florists then interpret the pieces of art through floral arrangements.

On Monday, May 27, the Mr. Maple Festival takes place at Nichols Nursery. The local nursery — a leading expert in Japanese maple trees — will lead tours of its gardens and offer trees for sale from its collection of more than 1,000 cultivars.

Hours for Garden Jubilee are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.

Admission is free.

For more information, go to www.VisitHendersonvilleNC. org/Garden-Jubilee.

Local & Regional Destinations & Experiences

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Inspiration for Living

The Shoppes At Home Heart & Soul Old Town Cornelius 20901 Catawba Ave, Cornelius, NC 28031

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Luxury & Performance at the Lake!

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

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North Carolina Brewers & Music Festival

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n amazing two days of local craft beer and live music, camping and new friends.

NCBMF will be on May 10th and 11th at Historic Rural Hill, a non-profit historic site and farm located 20 minutes from downtown Charlotte in Huntersville NC. This event is rainor-shine and will not be rescheduled.

The NCBMF Friday Night Jam is no longer exclusive to Friday night campers and is now a ticketed event open to the public. Weekend campers will receive 2 tickets per registration. Please note that this year the event will take place on the festival grounds directly across from the campground. There is no beer

tasting on Friday night, only sales.

Saturday a ten hour day of fun in the sun, complete with eight great bands, ranging from local bluegrass to national New Orlean’s style blues.

Plus, you’re privy to all the hand crafted ales and lagers you can savor!

This festival is both for those with a palate for quality craft brews made right here in North Carolina and those who enjoy a good outdoor jam. Featuring: over three hours of free tasting, a day packed full of great music, beer education.

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

Through beer festivals, promotions and other events, we can make this happen. Visit our website to see a schedule of events.

housethatbeerbuilt.com

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Local & Regional Destinations & Experiences

EDEN TOURISM DEVELOPMENT INVITES YOU TO JOIN US FOR THE

Thursday, May 23, 7:00 p.m.

Spray Mercantile along the canal in Beautiful Eden, NC $50 person or $90 per couple

Includes Dinner, Drinks & a Commemorative Glass A seasoned chef will be preparing a mouth-watering menu based on local ingredients. Come enjoy Eden’s hospitality at its best at our premier Farm-to-Fork event.

ExploreEdenNC.com FOR TICKETS PLEASE CALL OR SEE CINDY ADAMS 336-552-6132 OR DEBBIE MOORE 336-344-5539 SEATING IS LIMITED TO 100

NORTH CAROLINA’S

SHOWCASING

the

CATALINAS LIVE

May 18 • Elkin, NC ExploreElkin.com • YVWF.com I-77 Exit 85 theDestinationMagazine.com 704-706-2365

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June Family Fun Month Returns To Beech Mountain

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tart your summer on a high Movies Under the Stars at the note in Easter n America’s Brick Oven Pizzeria take place at highest town, Beech Moun- dark ever y Friday and Saturday tain, North Carolina. night, and other activities at the iconic eatery include buy-one-getThis family-friendly destina- one-free mini golf and Friday Famtion offers affordable fun for all ily Field Days, including a bounce ages, and June Family Fun Month house and live music. highlights some of the best of what this quaint resort town has to offer.

More free live music can be Many of the businesses in town, as found on Saturday afternoons at well as the Beech Mountain Resort, the Beech Mountain Resort and the L and of Oz and the Beech Sunday evenings at the Alpen Mountain Parks and Recreation Inn. Beginning mid-month, the Department, work together to pro- Beech Mountain Museum opens vide a full month of specials, deals, Wednesday-Sunday af ter noons events and activities that families for self-guided tours of its lovingly and kids can enjoy together. created displays, at no charge.

Family Fun Month kicks off on June 1st with the Kiddo Fishing Derby, a free event for kids 12 and under, starting at Lake Coffey at 9:00 am. Prizes are awarded, and there are volunteers on hand to help out as needed. Limited equipment is available to borrow, and kids are encouraged to bring their own.

T h e Pa r k s a n d R e c r e a t i o n Department offers free guided hikes ever y other Thursday, as well as free canoeing on Buckeye Lake, and low-cost Pickleball play, guided mountain bike treks, and fishing trips.

Another ver y popular option Continued On Page 35

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Local & Regional Destinations & Experiences

May 31- June 2, 2019 www.nctraildays.com

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Local & Regional Destinations & Experiences

Destination: Valdese

2019 SUMMER CONCERT SERIES LINEUP May 24, 2019- Outshyne- Country May 31, 2019- Rated PG- Variety

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he Town of Valdese will kick off their 2019 Family Friday Nights summer concert series on May 24, 2019 at 7pm in the downtown Valdese parking lot. The summer concert series is free for everyone, so bring a lawn chair and get ready to hear some great music!

The May 24th kick off will feature the countr y music band, Outshyne. Outshyne hails from South Carolina and boasts music with both a country feel and rock overtones. Outshyne hit #1 on the Sirius XM Charts with their hit single, Moonlight Crush. They have opened for countr y music superstars including, Jake Owen, Eric Church, Lee Brice, Colt Ford, Joe Nichols, Gar y Allen, and Justin Moore to name a few. The May 24th celebration will also feature beer sales by Friends of the Valdese Rec and The Levee Brewer y & Pub. With concerts ever y Friday Night until August 30, the summer concert series line up is stacked with incredible talent every week.

Continued On Page 17

June 7, 2019- TBA June 14, 2019- Emily MinorCountry & Variety June 21, 2019- The Night Move Band- Variety JUNE 28, 2019- INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION & FIREWORKS DISPLAY Little Johnny Trailer Trash - Classic Rock Ultimate Eagles Tribute- On the Border - Eagles Tribute Band July 5, 2019- Southwind- Variety July 12, 2019- Shake Down Band- Variety/Dance/Beach July 19, 2019- The True Grass Band- Bluegrass July 26, 2019- Tony Bailey Band- Classic Rock August 2, 2019- Skaterink Jukebox- Variety AUGUST 9th, 2019 – WALDENSIAN FESTIVAL KICKOFF 80’s & 90’s Tribute Cassette Rewind | Gump Fiction AUGUST 10th, 2019 – WALDENSIAN FESTIVAL Gary Lowder & Smokin’ Hot – Beach & Variety August 16, 2019- Carson Hill- Folk Rock & Country August 23, 2019- To Be Announced –TBA August 30, 2019- The Tim Clark Band – Dance/Variety/Beach

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BANNER ELK: Base Camp for Grandfather Mtn Adventure Lodging packages include two tickets to Grandfather Mountain, NC’s premier mountain attraction

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Local & Regional Destinations & Experiences

TRUE HOSPITALITY REALLY MA Destination: Valdese

BOUTIQUE HOTEL IN HISTORIC DOWNTOWN DAVIDSON, NEAR LA

Continued From Page 15

The Town of Valdese Independence Day Celebration will be held on June 28, 2019 in conjunction with the Family Friday Nights series.

June 28th will be a night you won’t want to miss with a crowd favorite, Little Johnny Trailer Trash, opening for The Ultimate Eagles Tribute Band- On The Border. On the Border - The Ultimate Eagles Tribute from Charlotte, NC continues to be the most exciting and authentic EAGLES Tribute! Anointed “The Greatest EAGLES Tribute in the World” by AXSTV & Host K atie Dar yl, they have been satisfying audiences all over the country at their performances.

When Location, Comfort And True Hospitality Really Matter!

Friday, August 9th the 2019 Waldensian Festival kick-off will feature and 80’s and 90’s throwback party with performances from band- Cassette Rewind ATION, ON,80’s Ctribute OMFORT COMFORT AND AND and Gump Fiction- The Ultimate Bring your biggest ALITY ITY90’s RExperience.

EALLY REALLY MATTER M ATTER ! ! hair, your brightest neon’s, and get CWNTOWN DOWNTOWN DAVIDSON, DAVIDSON, NEARNEAR LAKELAKE NORMAN NORMAN ready to party!

The season will close out on August 30, 2019 with a summer closing celebration featuring the Tim Clark Band, the Carolina’s premiere dance, shag, rock, and party experience! Tim Clark and his band are known for adding their own flavor to favorite hits of the 70s, 80s, 90s and today.

For further information go to www.valdeseconcerts.com or call 828-879-2129

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May is Wine Festival Month in the Yadkin Valley Budbreak Wine & Craft Beer Festival

Sat, May 4 I Mount Airy I BudbreakFestival.com

Yadkin Valley Wine Festival

Sat, May 18

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I Elkin Municipal Park I YVWF.com

YadkinValleyNC.com Local & Regional Destinations & Experiences

6 Weekend Adventures For The Whole Family In Gaston County

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ocated just west of Charlotte, Gaston County offers families plenty of options for a weekend getaway. With museums, parks, nature trails, and some of the region’s best hiking, mountain biking, and paddling, it’s easy to plan an adventurous day trip or a quick vacation. You’ll also find lots of family-friendly programs that mix fun and learning for all ages. Ready to see for yourself? Start thinking about your next family outing with our guide to the top weekend adventures in Gaston County.

Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden

back or around the loop trail to Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden, on the Seven Oaks Preserve Trail. Young children will love the short hike to views of Lake Wylie, while older kids will enjoy the challenge of the full distance. The path is bike-friendly, too, so it’s a perfect beginner ride for teens just learning to mountain bike.

Schiele Museum

Once you discover the Schiele Museum of Natural History, don’t be surprised if it becomes one of your kids’ favorites. It’s just the right size for a leisurely half-day trip without the crowds of bigger museums.

Exhibits on North American wildlife, animal habitats, and Native American tribes keep it interesting, and a Creepy Nature exhibit debunks myths about vampires, aliens, zombies, and mummies. There’s always a new show to watch at the planetarium, which is the second largest in the state. Traveling exhibits feature wildlife artists, dinosaurs, and more.

At the Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden, you’ll find a landscape that changes with every season as you explore the 380 acres of fountains, trails, and formal gardens. Introduce your kids to bright blooms and exotic scents in the orchid conservator y, then stroll the symmetrical promenade in the Canal Garden. If everyone’s up for the distance, continue your walk through the Ribbon and Serpentine Gardens to the back entrance and Meadowood Walk.

And that’s just on the inside— From there, you can follow the trail outdoors you can explore a .7-mile almost to the shore of Lake Wylie. nature trail, wildlife garden, and a Catawba Indian Village. The 18thSeven Oaks Trail century backcountry farm, complete It’s just over five miles out and Continued On Page 38

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Get Wet in Nature’s Playground

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he w a te r do e sn’t ge t a n y clea ner tha n cr ysta l clea r mou nt a i n st re a m s whose source is a federally protected wilderness area. No development of any kind is allowed in the Linville Gorge Wilderness Area near Morganton in Burke County.

Lake James is primarily fed from the Linville River which comes straight out of the Linville Gorge and infuses fresh clean water into the lake by the tens of thousands of gallons per minute. Swimmers, fishermen and boaters are all amazed at the water clarity.

The 600-foot sandy, swim beach at Lake James State Park is a fantastic place to spend the day with lakefront picnic spots, a bath house/changing area and lifeguards protecting the swimmers. There is a small fee for swimming. Also available are canoe and kayak rentals and a fishing pier that is handicap accessible.

The remote boat-in campground on the Long Arm Peninsula offers

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a true outdoor adventure for those willing to paddle or steer their canoes, kayaks or powerboats to their own slice of heaven. Boat ramps at Hidden Cove and Canal Bridge on NC 126 are located between the park’s two day-use areas.

Lake James State Park www.ncparks.gov/lake-jamesstate-park 828-584-7728

Local & Regional Destinations & Experiences

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Ballantyne Charlotte Mooresville Huntersville Uptown

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The McIntosh Law Firm Is Honored To Sponsor

North Carolina Brewers and Music Festival – May 10th - 11th

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Blaze A Trail To Elkin For The NC Trail Days Festival

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he inaugural North Carolina Trail Days Festival takes place May 31-June 2 in Elkin and combines the area’s abundance of trails with a fun schedule of events.

concluding with a bonfire and live music at the Foothills Arts Council.

Other Saturday activities include guided hikes, a 40-mile group cycle ride, women’s kayaking on the Yadkin River Paddle Trail, fly fishing and The festival is an initiative of the mountain bike demonstrations, trail Elkin Valley Trails Association. The seminars and kids’ activities.

EVTA is a volunteer group with a mission to enhance Elkin by building Sunday includes a family paddle a network of trails for people of all flotilla on the Yadkin River and exabilities. ploring the Surry County Wine Trail.

The festivities begin Friday with several options during the day, followed by an evening gathering at Elkin Municipal Park. The gathering includes a welcome tent, festival information, live music and a low countr y boil. Later that night is Five Point Adventure Film Night at the Reeves Theater on Main Street, showcasing adventure film shorts that won awards at the Five Point Film Festival.

“What we’re seeing is everybody is starting to embrace trails across all activity levels,” Lyon says. “I think as we get busier, more stressed out, and glued to our phones and computers, there’s this real shift that is happening with people wanting to find themselves again on a trail.”

Saturday is full of activities, starting with a 5k hill climb trail race to the top of Stone Mountain and

For more information about this festival and other Yadkin Valley events, visit www.YadkinValley.org

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For more information, go to www.NCTrailDays.com.

Local & Regional Destinations & Experiences

fourth annual

On the Border ExploreEdenNC.com

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Banner Elk Art Show Is The Perfect Getaway This Month

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he cool mountains of Banner Elk provide an ideal backdrop for the Art on the Green show this Memorial Day weekend. This hand-crafted art show transforms the grounds of Historic Banner Elk School into a galler y filled with works from local and regional artists, May 25-26.

with an artist that enriches their life.”

Show grounds are in the heart of this Blue Ridge mountain resort town. It is an easy walk to many accommodations and restaurants in Banner Elk.

Banner Elk is known as the “culinary hot spot of the NC High The Memorial Day weekend Country” with more than a dozen show is the first of three taking place independent restaurants offering a throughout the summer. The second variety of cuisine choices. show occurs July Fourth weekend, July 6-7, and the final show is Labor “We have a rich heritage that Day weekend, Aug. 31-Sept. 1. makes us special, and I think people feel that when they’re here,” Tufts The Memorial Day show includes says. dozens of local and regional artists.

They represent a variety of media, Proceeds from Art on the Greene such as metal, glass, ceramics, go to renovation efforts at the wood, watercolor, acrylics and oil. Historic Banner Elk School, which is home to a community artists gallery, “I hope attendees find our town a book exchange and Ensemble to be a place they want to return Stage, a professional theater troupe. and tell other people about,” says Kimberly Tufts, show director. “I Art on the Greene has no also hope they leave with something admission fee. Hours are tangible, that they find a new piece 10a.m. to 5 p.m. both days.

For info, visit www.BannerElk. of artwork and build a relationship com or call 828-387-0581

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Local & Regional Destinations & Experiences

“breathtaking scenery”

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Lake James – “You’ll be Amazed” 888-462-2921 www.discoverburkecounty.com 26

Local & Regional Destinations & Experiences

Surry County: Four Rivers Run Through It

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urry County, located in North Carolina wine country, is home to four rivers that are ideal for kayaking, canoeing and tubing. The four rivers – Yadkin, Fisher, Mitchell and Ararat – anchor more than 100 miles of countywide padding waters that are featured in a free map available to the public.

The new Sur r y County Four Rivers Map provides locations for all paddling access points in the county, as well as stream details and parking info for each access point.

The largest of the four is the Yadkin River, which forms the southern border of Surry County. That river alone offers more than 30 miles of paddling adventure as it snakes eastward from Elkin in the county’s southwest corner to Pilot Mountain State Park in the southeast corner.

Two outfitters provide service on the Yadkin. Rocky Forest River Run near Elkin rents kayaks, canoes and tubes for self-guided trips up to six hours in length. In the historic village of Rockford, Yadkin River Adventures offers a variety of excursions. Choose from two-, four or six-hour options in a kayak or canoe. True adventurers can extend their trip to an overnight excursion with riverside camping.

Rockford General Store across the street from the outfitter provides snacks, drinks, supplies and full picnic lunches.

If you’re new to paddling, Kapps Mill Kayak Rentals in Dobson is located on the Mitchell River with shallow, easy-flowing water. The company offers a 45-minute mini-run for first timers to try out the activity.

To request a free mailed copy of the Surry County Four Rivers Map, The stretch of river flowing go to www.YadkinValleyNC.com. An through Pilot Mountain State Park interactive version of the map is also is quite scenic with islands, shoals available on the website. and the remnants of a canal dam, all flanked by river birch and sycamore trees on the shoreline.

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Blueways To Bluegrass, Splash Into The Dan River In Stokes

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ith summer weather on the horizon, now is the perfect time to plan your escape to the mountains and waterways of Stokes County, NC! Work up a sweat as you explore the more strenuous trails of Hanging Rock State Park, break for lunch at one of the many local eateries, then cool down with a leisure float on the Dan River before sun down. Book an overnight stay with one of the many local accommodations, or set up camp at a campsite or cabin inside the park, stories and marshmallows around the campfire cap off the perfect day.

Did you know the Dan River crosses the North Carolina and Virginia border eight times? Plan your river adventure along the Dan River State Crossings with The Dan River Company, the staff here can outfit any group with the perfect canoe, kayak or stand up paddle board.

After a short shuttle ride to a point upstream, your float downstream can be chilling or thrilling with opportunities to experience Class one and two rapids before returning to the “play wave” near DRC take out.

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Kick off the River Tubing season on the Dan this Memorial Day weekend! Book your outing with a local river outfitters including General Dan Tubing Co. or Hillside Tubing in Danbur y. The General Dan Tubing Company will feature the new River Shiver Shaved Ice Shop, perfect for cooling off before your float. Depending on level of the river float times average around three hours.

After exiting the river at Moratock Park continue down Sheppard Mill Road and arrive at a true local relic, Priddy’s General Store, for a step back in time. Take in a little bluegrass pickin’ and flat footin’ at the Memorial Day Pickin’ at Priddy’s on May 25th, featuring Travis Frye and Blue Mountain. Pop the cap of a glass soda pop, set up your chair or picnic blanket and enjoy.

Maybe fishing is your water activity of choice? Recent restocking of Brown and Rainbow Trout at Hanging Rock lake allows for friendly competition as you cast a line for

Local & Regional Destinations & Experiences

One Stop. One Shop.

P Community Wine Classes Activities Beer Live Music $4 Draft Beer the biggest fish, here you can take what you catch. The lake at Hanging Rock is also perfect for family outings to swim or canoe. Belews Lake in the southeastern section of Stokes County is perfect for boating, fishing, jet skiing or catching some rays from the dock. Bring your swim suit and enjoy our waterways!

Monday

1/2 Priced Select Bottles of wine Tuesday

Enjoy 25% Off A Bottle Of Wine Wednesday

1/2 Price Appetizers 4-7PM Friday

$3 MiMosas - Vinyasa & Vino $10 Sunday

704.635.9157

The perfect mountain getaway, closer than you think. www.hangingrock.com

hopandvineedisonsquare Open 7 Days a Week 10070 Edison Square Drive NW Ste 102-B Concord, North Carolina 28027

Breakfast • Lunch • Dinner Boat Slips Available!

828.478.3078

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29

JUNE

is Family Fun Month

During Family Fun Month, enjoy 30 Days of organized activities including guided hikes, Land of Oz tours, mountain biking, movies under the stars, and more, plus great discount lodging specials.

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800-468-5506 Local & Regional Destinations & Experiences BeechMtn.com

Join the Carolina Craft Beverage Trail to be eligible for CRAFTY REWARDS.

Featured Destination

Cavendish Brewing Company

Oink & Ale!

O

ink & Ale is back and will take place Saturday, May 11th from 6pm. until 9pm. along Monroe Street in Historic Downtown Eden. You will be able to enjoy barbecue, ribs, brisket, barbecued chicken, MillerCoors, Pig Pounder Brewery and 2 Witches Winery & Brewing Co. products along with beverages from other local craft brewers. Plenty of delicious nonalcoholic beverages, desserts and snacks will be available as well.

We are also thrilled to have On the Border - The Ultimate Eagles Tribute from Charlotte. What sets the On The Border apart from the other Eagle Tribute’s, is that each member plays their respective character of the Eagles performing & singing their parts. Their passion, showmanship and precise attention to replicating the details of The Eagles Music, has earned them critical acclaim.

So bring your lawn chairs and plan to come early and stay late!!!

For More information contact: Cindy Adams at 336-612-8049 or cadams@edennc.us or go to ExploreEdenNC.com

Specializing in Old World beers, particularly ones not currently featured by many small American breweries, Cavendish Brewing combines an extensive knowledge of historical beer recipes with modern brewing techniques.

2234, 207 N Chester St, Gastonia, NC 28052 (704) 830-0435 - CavendishBrewing.com

CAROLINA

CRAFT BEVERAGE TRAIL carolinacraftbeverage.com

CiDeR SPiRiTS BeeR WiNE CoCTaiLS UnCorked

JOIN NOW

carolinacraftbeverage.com Your guide to experiencing craft beverage destinations across the region.

PRINT • ONLINE • APP

REWARDS

✓ Enroll ✓ Experience ✓ Enjoy

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Cheers To The Carolina Craft Beverage Trail Passport

E

njoy yourself, reward yourself.

The Carolina Craft Beverage Trail is a reward program to nudge you to get off the well worn path and experience boutique craft beverage destinations across the State of North Carolina.

Charlotte, Raleigh, Asheville are all well-known craft beverage destinations. But did you know that award-winning wines, spirits, and beers are made in Belmont, Shelby, Oxford, and Dallas?

The Carolina Craft Beverage Trail Passport App will guide you to craf t beverage destinations from boutique breweries to classic cocktails. We strive to feature the best destinations in communities you never knew existed. When you check into a destination on our trail, you’ll have a good chance of actually meeting the artisan that created your beverage.

The experience is what we want to share with you. Take the time to break away from the herd and discover the dozens of world-class

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producers and providers of craft beverages scattered around the region, many in communities you’ve never heard of.

So what about the reward?

Download our free app to your phone to find passport destinations and check-in. Awards for checking in include stainless steele carabiner cups, steel growlers, steel wine glasses and more.

If you ser ve or produce craft beverages and you would like to be part of the Carolina Craft Beverage Trail contact us and so we can get you on the passport, the web page and maybe you’ll be featured right here as a Craf t Beverage Destination!

Enjoy yourself, reward yourself.

The Carolina Craft Beverage Trail is a reward program to nudge you to get off the well worn path and experience boutique craft beverage destinations across the State of North Carolina.

CarolinaCraftBeveverage.com

Local & Regional Destinations & Experiences

Wheels Through Time Museum is home to the world’s premier collection of rare American motorcycles, memorabilia, and a distinct array of unique “one-off” American automobiles. Located just 5 miles off the Blue Ridge Parkway in Maggie Valley, North Carolina our museum houses a collection of over 300 rare machines.

Maggie Valley, NC

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

(828) 926-6266

MAY BE IT’S TIME TO UPGRADE YOUR RIDE! SHOP RMX TO GET A GREAT DEAL ON ALL YOUR AUTOMOTIVE ACCESSORIES.

ALL IN STOCK PLASTIC BEDLINERS ARE HALF PRICE THIS MONTH. SHOP US ONLINE AT WWW.RANDYMARIONRMX.COM 10% OFF AMSOIL PRODUCTS. 10% OFF LEVEL KITS 10% OFF COLD AIR INTAKE SYSTEMS 40% OFF ON ALL OAKLEY PRODUCT. $50 OFF SPRAY IN BED LINERS. UP TO 50% OFF IN STOCK A.R.E. TRUCK TOPPERS. WHEEL AND TIRE PACKAGES STARTING AS LOW AS $999.99

209 W. Plaza Dr. Moorsville NC 28117 • 704-235-6800 • M-F 8am-8pm Sat 8am-4pm www.facebook.com/ RandyMarionRMX

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FAMILY FRIDAY NIGHTS SUMMER CONCERT SERIES Every Friday May 24 - August 30 @7pm

Kickoff Celebration with OUTSHYNE on May 24 INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION & FIREWORKS!

Friday, June 28th

Live Music by Little Johnny Trailer Trash @ 7pm followed by:

The Ultimate Eagles Tribute Band - On The Border Amusement Rides • Food Trucks • Beer Garden • Music • Car Show

43RD ANNUAL WALDENSIAN FESTIVAL

AUGUST 9: FESTIVAL KICKOFF 7pm Cassette Rewind followed by Gump Fiction AUGUST 10: WALDENSIAN FESTIVAL 7pm Saturday Night: Gary Lowder & Smokin’ Hot FAMILY FRIDAY NIGHTS SUMMER CONCERT SERIES

Finale with the TIM CLARK BAND on August 30 visitvaldese.com |828-879-2129

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Local & Regional Destinations & Experiences

Spring Grown & Gathered For Your Pleasure

A

t the center of Eden, NC’s historic district, the textured handmade brick, ar ched windows and portico of the Spray Mercantile building reflect in the historic Spray Canal.

This is the setting for the Spring Grown & Gathered, a farm to table charitable event celebrating and showcasing local far mers and artisans. A thoughtful crafted menu will consist of produce, meats and products “grown & gathered” here in Rockingham County or a nearby local source. Music, locally produced wines and cheeses are also on the menu for the evening.

Last year food forward families from Charlotte to Raleigh gathered along the canal for this evening of fresh food and new friends in this farm inspired feast.

Beech Mountain Family Fun Continued From Page 12

are the “Tours with Dorothy ” at the Land of Oz each Thursday and Friday, plus the last Wednesday in June. Tickets are on sale at www. landofoznc.com and they usually sell out, so please go online to get yours as early as possible.

With all the events and activities coupled with the natural beauty of Beech Mountain, families are sure to find the opportunity to relax and

Spring Grown & Gathered Thursday, May 23 7pm $90 per couple includes dinner, two drinks and a Commemorative Glass.

Spray Mercantile Building 413 Church Street Eden, NC 27289 ExploreEdenNC.com

unwind together. Several lodging establishments are offering special pricing during the month, with 20% off a three-night stay or buythree-nights-get-one-free. For more information, go to www.beechmtn. com/things-to-do/youth-activities/ family-month.

Written by: Kate Gavenus

For more information on Beech Mountain’s Family Fun Month, call 800-468-5506 or visit: www.BeechMtn.com

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YOUR INSURANCE CLAIMS SPECIALIST You are entitled to exceptional service and superior craftsmanship!

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We offer 100% financing and work with most insurance companies.

36 CrossoverRoofing.com Local & Regional Destinations Experiences – (336) 804&-5058

Paddle, Pedal, Swim, Sip, Enjoy.

T

he Dan River Company ’s riverside facility adjacent to Hanging Rock State Park’s Dan River Access provides canoe and kayak rentals that include transportation.

Located two hours or less from most of the major population centers in the state, the Dan River Company can arrange trips from 2 hours to 2 days, covering 40 miles of the Dan River. Come and enjoy the beauty of the area, a day in the sun or an adventure on the river. There is no better way to relax than listening to the quiet ripples of water provided by nature, viewing the wildlife and spending time with your friends and family.

If you are looking for even more places to relax along the river just up the road in Mount Airy (Mayberry) check out the Whistling Duck Ale House. Located along the greenway and the Ararat River, they are the perfect place to stop, relax and enjoy a selection of 20 craft ales on tap as well as 6 varieties of select wines on tap.

There is adventure for your entire family. Dan River Company And if you are not ready to call it a can furnish ever ything you need day the Greenway Outdoor Center offor your trip or simply act as your fers bicycle rentals to cruise around transportation. the greenway, paddle board rentals for the Ararat River. They also have a After rollin’ down the river put selection of outdoor gear, including away the paddle and pick up a pint at clothing, bags, and fishing gear.

The Green Heron Alehouse. The first and only Alehouse in Stokes County and the favorite place for many hikers, Dan River Company – mountain bikers, paddlers, road bikes, Green Heron Ale House 1110 Flinchum Road, and sports car clubs to cap off their Danbury, NC, 27016 adventure with a cold one from one of 336-593-2628 our 20 taps of ales, beers, cider. This www.DanRiverCompany.com year we expanded our wine selection Whistling Duck Ale House – to include 8 wines ON TAP! Come on Greenway Outdoor Center by and give them a try. Have a great 1297 Newsome Rd domestic brew line up as well... and Mount Airy, North Carolina 27030 www.WhistlingDuckAleHouse.com great tales of the day’s events.

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Gaston Weekend Continued From Page 19

with hogs, sheep, and chickens, shows what life was like for Gaston County’s early settlers.

Rankin Lake Park

Close to Gastonia, Rankin Lake Park is another excellent place for a family hike or bike ride. A paved 1.5-mile trail circles the lake, and you can also enjoy fishing from two piers, two horseshoe courts, and an 18-hole disc golf course. (Note that the stretch of trail from Rankin to downtown is currently under construction.) You can even rent flatbottom jon boats, kayaks, canoes, and paddle boats during warmer months. Families with older tweens and teens will enjoy the run or bike ride to downtown Gastonia on the 1.5-mile paved Highland Rail Trail.

Goat Island Park

U.S National Whitewater Center

The U.S. National Whitewater Center is one of the region’s top attractions for outdoor activities, including whitewater rafting, climbing, hiking, kayaking, and mountain biking. For families who like to be active, you’re guaranteed to get a lot of smiles on any trip here.

Written by Ann Gibson for Matcha in partnership with Gaston County Gov.

Pack a picnic and head to Goat Island Park for a day of play right across the South Fork River from downtown Cramerton. Kids will love the ropes and towers on the huge playground, right next to the fitness

38

pavilion for older kids and adults. A dog park and almost a mile of paved greenway is perfect for strollers and young kids on bikes. Play disc golf on the 18-hole course or go fishing off the pier at the tip of the island.

There’s even a boat launch where you can start your a paddle trip on the South Fork Blueway. If it’s not picnic weather, take a leisurely walk across the footbridge to Mayworth’s Public House or Doffer’s Canteen for lunch, followed by a trip to Floyd & Blackie’s for ice cream.

Gaston County offers visitors a variety of attractions to enhance your trip dining and entertainment parks, art and history and more. www.gogaston.org

Local & Regional Destinations & Experiences

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HUNTERSVILLE

MOORESVILLE

9230 Beatties Ford Road

515 Rinehardt Road

L ANCASTERS BBQ.COM

lunch

X

dinner

X

full bar

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good times

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