124 July the Destination Magazine™ by the Destination Magazine

the Issue 124 Local & Regional Destinations & Experiences Off The Beaten Path

In This Issue

Cool Summer Destinations

We Tell You Where To Go!

theDestinationMagazine.com

Local & Regional Destinations & Experiences

An Outdoor Getaway in Mount Holly, NC Enjoy a weekend in Mount Holly by getting outside and onto the Catawba River in Gaston County.

GoGastonNC.org

theDestinationMagazine.com 704-706-2365

July 2021 Issue 124

the

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 your guide to new destinations and experiences to discover on your own, or outings with friends and family. We hope you will find a new memorable experience every month in the Destination Magazine™ .

We know we are on to something!

Page 13

Page 19

Page 24

Contents Stokes County, NC – A River Runs Through It

Reconnect With Your Sense Of Adventure In Goldsboro

An Outdoor Getaway Awaits On The Water In Mount Holly, NC 13 Behind The Scenes With Bob Timberlake For His 50th Anniversary 14

Lisa & Andy Jay Publishers Published by: Magic Table Media Group LLC Business Development: Lisa Jay, Mariah McDowell Creative: Andy Jay Contributing Writers: Lisa Jay, Craig Distl, Leah Hughes, Allison Andrews, Tory Mabe. Kate Gavenus Contributing Photographers: Andrew Zachary Digital Imagery, Paul Newton, Lisa Jay, Sam Dean, Kate Gavenus, Jennifer Olsen Thomas Cover: Dan River Stokes County, NC 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 Summerfield, NC 27358 (704) 706-2365 www.theDestinationMagazine.com ©2021 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 man-made disaster, etc., that are out of the control of the Publisher, which affect the publishing of this magazine.

Page 8

North Carolina’s Musical Treasure Returns to the Stage: Eastern Music Festival 19 Edenton: The South’s Prettiest Small Town

The Blue Ridge National Heritage Craft Trail

Shop For Art On The Greene This Summer In Banner Elk

Creativity Comes To Life For Henderson County Craft Trails Month

Local & Regional Destinations & Experiences

Blowing Rock Draft House & Brewery

Hillman Beer

883 Highland Avenue SE, Hickory, NC 28602

78 Catawba Avenue Suite F, Old Fort, NC 28762

Catawba Brewing

Keepers Cut Meadery

212 S Green Street, Morganton, NC 28655

175 Henderson Street, Marion, NC 28752

Catawba Farms Winery & Brewery

1048 Harper Avenue, Lenoir, NC 28645

1670 Southwest Blvd, Newton, NC 28658

Fonta Flora Brewery - Downtown

Liquid Roots Brewing Project MicaTown Brewery 25 Brown Drive, Marion, NC 28752

317 N Green Street, Morganton, NC 28655

Olde Hickory Brewing

Fonta Flora Brewery - Whippoorwill

Sidetracked Brewery

6751 NC-126, Nebo, NC 28761

609 S Green Street, Morganton, NC 28655

Granite Falls Brewing 47 Duke Street, Granite Falls, NC 28630

23rd Street SW, Hickory, NC 28602

The Levee Brewery 118 Main Street W, Valdese, NC 28690

discoverburkecounty.com • (828) 433-6793 Visitor’s Center • 110 E. Meeting Street • Morganton, NC

playanydaygetawaycation

Call for your free Visitor Guide 800.828.4244 | VisitHendersonvilleNC.org

Fleet Available

2000 W US Highway 421 Wilkesboro, North Carolina – (336) 667-2886

www.RandyMarionJeepRam.com

Local & Regional Destinations & Experiences

Historic Downtown Madison Outdoor Patio With Firepit

Wine - Cocktails - Spirits - Tasting - Cigars

Crafted Cocktails Wine By The Glass Friday 2-8PM Saturday 12-8PM

203 E Murphy St, Madison, NC 27025

www.giadistillery.com

theDestinationMagazine.com 704-706-2365

Stokes County, NC – A River Runs Through It

xperience the mighty Dan R iv e r f l o w i n g f r o m t h e nor thwest in Westfield at Jessup Mill Access, to southeast at Pine Hall Bridge Access. Th e D a n p a s s e s t h r o u g h t h e Sauratown range keeping waters cool and refreshing for kayaking, canoeing, or river tubing. In the northwestern section fishermen find pleasure at Jessup Mill or Harts Access, here Brown Trout are easily reeled in from their eastern most native habitat. No, it’s not a lazy river like i n s o m e wat e r p a rk . Th e D a n River is a living, vibrant r iver that can turn treacherous after just a couple of days of heavy rains. Stay updated with r iver c o n d i t i o n s o n t h e we b s i t e s and social media accounts of Stokes County, The Dan River Company, General Dan Tubing Company, or Hillside Dan River Tubing. Each of the three river outfitters can assist in helping you enjoy a river adventure as you get into a “Stokes State of Mind”. Outfitters are educated about points of interest on the Dan River and provide shuttle or equipment rental, letting you sit back enjoy the ride and flow of the mighty Dan. For 57 miles it cuts diagonally across Stokes County from the northwest to the southeast losing about 500 feet in elevation as

i t go e s . Th e D a n o f fe r s g re at outdoor recreation activities for boating, paddling, tubing, fishing and swimming. But it pays to do your research, and to have a plan. Especially for transportation to get back to your starting point.) And yes, there are places on the Dan where there are Class I, II, & III rapids. Public access locations in Stokes County include Jessup’s Mill (Collinstown Road in Westfield), Harts Access (Hwy 704 in Westfield). Hanging Rock Park Access (Flinchum Road in Danbury), Moratock Park, Snow Creek Access & Hemlock Golf Course in Walnut Cove. In 2017, the Piedmont Land Conservancy transferred a large tract of land in northwest Stokes County to state wildlife for hunting and fishing. The Hill Farm Game Land includes almost two miles of access to the Dan River. The access is welcomed by Triad trout fishing enthusiasts because the Dan offers them the nearest option for pursuing the popular game fish. The Dan also hosts sizable populations of smallmouth

Local & Regional Destinations & Experiences

bass, rare species of freshwater mu s s e l s , a n d a l a r g e va r i e t y of sucker fish. The river offers a myriad of oppor tunities for catching catfish, large-mouthed bass, sunfish and many more. M a ke a s p l a s h i n t o c o o l m o u n t a i n wat e r s o f t h e D a n River, dip your feet in a refreshing waterfall as it rushes by your skin flowing to the ground at Hanging Rock State Park. Stokes County, Nor th Carolina is the perfect Mountain Getaway, surrounded b y r u r a l l a n d s c ap e s , r e m o t e locations and vacation rental a c c o m m o d at i o n s away f ro m traffic jams and large cities. The perfect mountain getaway, closer than you think. www.hangingrock.com

Showroom Hours Monday-Saturday 9:00 - 8:00

STATE OF THE ART FACILITY 1030 Gateway Crossing Dr, Statesville, NC 28677

Service Hours Week Days 7:30 - 8:00 Saturdays 8:00 - 4:00

704-873-3673 / www.RandyMarionFord.com theDestinationMagazine.com 704-706-2365

Reconnect With Your Sense Of Adventure In Goldsboro

estled in the heart of easter n NC between Raleigh and the coast, we are a destination with rich culture and heritage. Our heritage has deep militar y and agricultural roots. And, let us not forget to mention o u r l e g e n d a r y B B Q ! We s u m u p o u r s e l ve s w i t h 3 P s : p i g s , pickles, and planes! We a re t h e p ro u d h o m e t o S e y m o u r J o h n s o n A i r Fo r c e Base, one of the best (and o l d e s t ! ) f i g h t e r c o m mu n i t i e s i n t h e wo rl d , M t . O l ive P i ck l e C o m p a ny, C l i f f s o f t h e N e u s e S t a t e Pa r k , a w a r d - w i n n i n g historic downtown, Center Street Jam Summer Concert Ser ies, NC Pickle Festival and North Carolina’s largest free air show, Wings Over Wayne. Our county is located on the NC Barbeque Society Historic Trail and the Mountains To Sea Trail, which is the perfect blend. Because after you eat the best

B B Q o f yo u r l i fe a n d wa s h i t d ow n w i t h swe e t t e a o r c ra f t beer, you’re going to thank us for having a way to burn it all off! Looking for a more international f l av o r ? Wa y n e C o u n t y h a s a constantly growing international food scene that will have you t r av e l i n g t h e wo r l d w i t h o u t having to find your passport. Live music ever y weekend, food trucks, historic sites, farm t o u r s , p u b l i c a r t , c r a f t b e e r, boutique shops, signature restaurants, F-15E Strike Eagles soaring across the sky (no big deal!)…there are so many things to do in GoldsboroWay n e C o u n t y ! E x p e r i e n c e a destination like no other, and reconnect with your sense of adventure, all here in the heart of Eastern, North Carolina. Plan your visit today! Nestled in the heart of eastern NC between Raleigh and the coast, we are a destination with rich culture and heritage. www.visitgoldsboronc.com

Local & Regional Destinations & Experiences

Celebrating

60 Years of Musical Excellence

June 26 – July 31, 2021 Greensboro, North Carolina

Tickets on sale NOW! Seating is limited! Visit easternmusicfestival.org/calendar for program and performer details.

theDestinationMagazine.com 704-706-2365

Local & Regional Destinations & Experiences

An Outdoor Getaway Awaits On The Water In Mount Holly, NC

ere is how to enjoy a we e ke n d i n M o u n t Holly by getting outside a n d o n t o t h e C at aw b a R ive r in Gaston County, located just outside of Charlotte, NC. Let the adventure begin! Make your way to Tailrace M a r i n a , w h e r e yo u c a n r e n t a va r i e t y o f p e r s o n a l ve s s e l s available for hourly and daily rental. Single and double kayaks, canoes, stand-up paddle boards, and pontoon boats are all available.

wh e r e yo u c o u l d a l s o r e n t a kayak. We highly recommend a stop here as one could easily spend an entire day. This impressive facility offers a plethora of outdoor activities f o r t h r i l l s e e ke r s i n cl u d i n g whitewater rafting on man-made rapids, climbing, rope cour ses and multiple ziplines, or rent one of their mountain bikes and head out on miles of impressive trails. If you aren’t a thrill seeker, they also have an impressive selection of brews from the P u m p H o u s e B i e rg a r t e n , a n d offer outdoor concer ts in the evenings on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, all summer long. These concerts can really draw a crowd.

After you shove off and get some distance from the marina you will notice that the scenery along this section of the river is beautiful and remote, making it conducive for a relaxing day on the water. Keep an eye out for a chance sighting of wildlife such as deer, foxes, osprey and other After your time on the water native species. yo u m ay h ave wo r ke d u p a n appetite. Check-out J.R. Cash’s D o w n s t r e a m y o u w i l l located right at the marina. Take discover the dock of the U.S. a seat on their large covered N a t i o n a l W h i t e w a t e r C e n t e r patio overlooking the marina, Continued On Page 30

theDestinationMagazine.com 704-706-2365

Go Behind The Scenes With Bob Timberlake For His 50th Anniversary

story that begins with a teenage boy in North Carolina building a chest in shop class and winning an industrial arts award now has chapter s that span a 50-year p r o f e s s i o n a l a r t c a r e e r. Those chapters include such accomplishments as a world-renowned fur niture line, paintings and prints hanging in galleries and h o m e s a c r o s s t h e c o u n t r y, a n d a n 8 4 - ye a r- o l d w h o s t i l l c r e a t e s e v e r y d a y. Beginning in July and r unning through August, the 50th Anniver sar y Ar t Exhibition at The Bob Timberlake Galler y in Lexington showcases the w o r k o f t h i s p r o l i f i c p a i n t e r, d e s i g n e r a n d s t o r y t e l l e r. Most of the pieces in the show are previously unseen works, many created by Ti m b e rl a ke w i t h i n t h e p a s t c o u p l e o f ye a r s .

The exhibition was delayed d u e t o t h e p a n d e m i c, s o t h i s year technically marks the 51st a n n iv e r s a r y o f T i m b e r l a ke ’s p r o f e s s i o n a l c a r e e r. H e h e l d his fir st ar t show in May 1970 in Winston-Salem. “ B e c a u s e we h a d t o wa i t a ye a r, we h a d t i m e t o r e a l i z e wh at t h i s s h ow wa s re a l ly a l l a b o u t ,” Ti m b e r l a ke s a y s . “ I t ’s a n i n s i g h t i n t o h ow t h e a r t i s t t h i n k s , o r h ow I t h i n k .” I n a dd i t i o n t o t h e r e a l i s t landscapes for which Ti m b e rl a ke i s b e s t k n ow n , the show includes what Timberlake calls “easel s t u d i e s .” A s h e p r e p a r e s t o p a i n t , Ti m b e r l a ke c o v e r s h i s e a s e l w i t h a p i e c e o f p a p e r. Throughout the painting process, he fills the paper s u r r o u n d i n g h i s c a nva s w i t h doodles, quotes, obser vations, p h o n e nu m b e r s o f p e o p l e h e needs to call back — whatever enter s his mind as he creates.

Local & Regional Destinations & Experiences

Wo r k s i n t h e s h o w f r o m the late 1960s till today demonstrate the progress i o n o f T i m b e r l a k e ’s s t y l e . A l t h o u g h h i s t e ch n i q u e m i g h t have evolved, his muse has a lway s b e e n t h e r u r a l s u rroundings of his Davidson C o u n t y h o m e. “The best thing I had going for me was that I was so naive,” Timberlake says. “I didn’t know what I was doing; I was just doing it from the hear t.” The 50th Anniversary Art Exhibition opens to the public July 1 and continues through August. Gallery hours are Thursday-Saturday, noon-5 p.m. For more information: www.BobTimberlake.com.

AWS ADVANCED WEALTH STRATEGIES

We believe it’s not about what you have;

It’s about what you keep. Douglas Marion (704) 765-3653

19520 W. Catawba Ave Ste 313 Cornelius NC 28031

www.PlanWithAWS.com

Investment Advisory Services offered through AlphaStar Capital Management, LLC., a SEC Registered Investment Adviser. AlphaStar Capital Management, LLC and Advanced Wealth Strategies, Inc. are independent entities.

225 S Broad St Mooresville, NC www.GhostfaceBrewing.com

Take out only. $5 dollar additional charge required for all new Duckworth’s growlers. Special price only applies to $9 growlers & 1 topping pizzas. Extra toppings ($1.75 each) & higher price growlers are available for an additional charge

www.duckworths.com

Ballantyne Rea Farms Mooresville Huntersville Uptown

theDestinationMagazine.com 704-706-2365

Reevestock Music Festival Photo by: Jake Rothwell

events Scan the QR Code to view our full calendar of events. 16

Local & Regional Destinations & Experiences

Upcoming Events

IN ELKIN, NC July 1 Live at Five at The Wisdom Table July 3 FreedomFest July 9 Food Truck Friday July 23 Downtown Block Party August 5 Live at Five at The Wisdom Table August 6-7 Reevestock Music Festival August 13 Food Truck Friday

For more information, visit www.ExploreElkin.com theDestinationMagazine.com 704-706-2365

ESCAPE. UNWIND. INDULGE. BannerElk.com

CABIN RENTALS CASUAL & FINE DINING Local & Regional Destinations & Experiences OUTDOOR ADVENTURE SHOPPING & GALLERIES

North Carolina’s Musical Treasure Returns to the Stage: Eastern Music Festival

astern Music Festival (EMF), G re e n s b o ro ’s n at i o n a l ly recognized classical music festival and summer educational program, retur ns to the stage June 26 through July 31, 2021, Celebrating 60 Years of Musical Excellence. For six decades each summer, extraordinary musicians from around the world gather in Greensboro, br inging their t a l e n t s t o p e r fo r m t h e wo rk s of the great master s, past and p r e s e n t . H u n d r e d s o f Yo u n g Ar tists practice, perfor m, and str ive for musical excellence; teachers guide and encourage the students; and world-class guest artists and mentors share their talents and wisdom. For five weeks, the community is abuzz with the sounds that are EMF.

m o s t t a l e n t e d a n d d e d i c at e d young musicians. Performances w i l l i n cl u d e f u l l o r c h e s t r a s , chamber ensembles, and solo recitals featuring classical works s p a n n i n g f ive c e n t u r i e s , o n e world premiere, several works b y awa r d - w i n n i n g A m e r i c a n composers, and numerous North Carolina composers.

EMF is thrilled to be among the fir st perfor ming ar ts organizations in the Triad to return to live, in-per son concer ts and educational programs this s u m m e r. Au d i e n c e s , s t u d e n t s , faculty, and staff are excited for the homecoming to the Dana After canceling the in-person Au d i t o r i u m s t ag e a n d ex p e c t 2020 Festival due to the COVID- this summer to be a memora 1 9 p a n d e m i c, E M F i s c o m i n g ble experience. h o m e t o D a n a Au d i t o r i u m at Guilford College. Although To learn more about this this summer at EMF will look season’s concert programming, a little different from a regular visit easternmusicfestival. five-week season, the Festival org/calendar. Tickets on sale now! (Seating is will produce more than 35 live limited in accordance c o n c e r t s w i t h s t e l l a r f a c u l t y with current guidelines.) artists and some of the nation’s easternmusicfestival.org

theDestinationMagazine.com 704-706-2365

eb l e

rate

Summer

in valdese Independence Day

July 2, 2021 @ 7pm

fireworks & LIVE MUSIC by:

Friday: Cruise In|Rides|Outdoor Drama Darrell Harwood @6pm Dirty Grass Soul @9pm

downtownvaldese.com | 828-879-2129 Local & Regional Destinations & Experiences

EVERY WEEKEND ON BEECH MOUNTAIN

Live music & outdoor movies at Famous Brickoven Pizzeria (Free event with food & beverages available for purchase)

Take a scenic lift ride to 5506’ Skybar for live music (Free event with the cost of a lift ticket)

It’s the Summer Concert Series at Beech Alpen Inn (No cover charge • Lawn menu)

Details: beechmtn.com

Concerts in Davidson are coming back!

Find schedules for all three concert series at:

concertsonthegreen.com

theDestinationMagazine.com 704-706-2365

SHOP US ONLINE AT WWW.RANDYMARIONRMX.COM

ACCESSORIES

CALL FOR PREFERRED CUSTOMER PRICING

SPECIALIZE IN COMMERCIAL UPFIT 205 W. Plaza Dr. Mooresville NC 28117 • 704-235-6800 • M-F 8am-8pm Sat 8am-4pm www.facebook.com/ RandyMarionRMX

Local & Regional Destinations & Experiences

Edenton: The South’s Prettiest Small Town

he beautifully preser ved Colonial village of Edenton is often referred to as the Prettiest Small Town in the South. All it takes is one visit to see why. Seemingly around ever y cor ner is an Instagram-wor thy view. For many, Edenton offers the ideal combination of historic charm and scenic beauty. Established in 1712, Edenton w a s N o r t h C a r o l i n a ’s f i r s t Colonial capital, a place where signer s of the Declaration o f I n d e p e n d e n c e a n d U. S . Constitution lived and worked alongside one of the first j u s t i c e s o f t h e U. S. S u p r e m e Court.

sits on the bay and ser ves as a welcome center. A few steps away i s t h e d ep a r t u r e p o i n t for the Edenton Trolley Tour, a popular attraction for visitors. Another attraction is the 1886 Roanoke River Lighthouse. One of the few remaining screw-pile lighthouses in America, it has been moved from its or iginal river post to a prominent place in Edenton Bay, adjacent to the town’s waterfront park.

From spring to fall, Edenton Bay Cruises provide daily Th e 1 7 6 7 C h owa n C o u n t y m a r i t i m e t o u r s o f t h e t ow n ’s Courthouse is still in operation coastline. today and considered the most preserved Colonial courthouse A n o t h e r ap p e a l i n g a s p e c t in America. of Edenton is small-scale lodging. A half-dozen inns, It was in Edenton, in 1774, several in grand houses, offer that the first organized female o p p o r t u n i t i e s t o r e l a x i n political activity in the Colonies comfor table surroundings. took place – Penelope Barker and 50 other women held the Travelers arriving by boat can E d e n t o n Te a Pa r t y t o p ro t e s t take advantage of boat slips that taxes on British goods. are free of charge for two nights. A stroll through this bayside town showcases immaculately maintained homes, including Penelope Barker’s house, which

For info about the Prettiest Small Town in the South, go to VisitEdenton.com or call 800-775-0111.

theDestinationMagazine.com 704-706-2365

The Blue Ridge National Heritage Craft Trail

h e f o o t h i l l s o f We s t e r n North Carolina have long been known for the craft culture and amazing ar tisans that live in these parts. From the founding of the Piedmont Blues to famous bluegrass musicians a n d s t u n n i n g p o t t e r y, B u r ke County especially is no stranger to craftsmanship. This is evident S u s a n M c R a e , t h e o w n e r, when you look at the Blue Ridge hand-dyes thread and yar n to National Heritage Craft Trail. use for beautiful crochet and woven projects. The Blue Ridge National Heritage Craft Trail is filled with Customers can purchase galleries, artist workshops and p re m a d e i t e m s f ro m O S u z a n ve nu e s t h r o u g h o u t t h e B l u e nah’s or they can buy mater iRidge area boasting the unique als to create their own mastercraft style that is local to this piece. Also in Morganton is the p a r t o f N o r t h C a ro l i n a . Th e i r showroom for Oak Hill Iron and website allows you to choose Wood. Although the workshop the area that you are interested i s l o c at e d i n n o r t h e r n B u r ke in visiting and it will display C o u n t y, D e a n C u r f f m a n a n d the ar tists in that area. When his team display their unique you select Morganton, Valdese, pieces such as furniture, sliding and Drexel (all Burke County barn doors, ornate door knocktowns) you will see 9 different ers and craft cutting boards for galleries, ar tisans and venues visitors to experience the talent all hosting amazing artwork and a n d c r a f t s m a n s h i p t h at go e s goods that will help you bring into their welding and wooda little piece of Burke County working operation. into your home. OSuzannah’s on West Union Street in Downtown The Old Rock School in Morganton is a prime example. Va l d e s e i s a n o l d s c h o o l

Local & Regional Destinations & Experiences

bu i l d i n g t h at h a s b e e n re n o vat e d t o f i t t h e n e e d s o f t h e community. It is a multi-purpose bu i l d i n g t h at o f f e r s m e e t i n g s p a c e, o f f i c e s , a m o d e l t r a i n mu s e u m , a c o n c e r t h a l l a n d ar t galleries. The Rock School Arts Foundation operates 2 galleries filled with paintings and other fine art from local artists. Th e i r d i s p l ay s c h a n g e e ve r y few months to keep the spaces fresh and exciting. Throughout the year, people can also exper ience live music in the auditorium or the field behind the building weather depending. It is the perfect hub for ar t and culture in Valdese.

is during our Art Crawls, hosted by the Burke Arts Council, held every other month, on the third Thursday. The next Art Crawl will be on July 15th from 5 to 8pm in Downtown Morganton. The theme will be “Places.” Artwork will be displayed on the lawn of the Morganton Savings Bank on Union Street, as well as throughout the downtown area. Art galleries and shops will have extended hours and will offer discounts in celebration of the event.

I f yo u wa n t t o ex p e r i e n c e t h e l o c a l a r t s c e n e i n B u r ke County, the perfect time to do so

Oil and Filter Changes - Tire Rotations -Tire Sales & Tune-Up - Wheel Balance Batteries - Check Engine Light NC INSPECTION STATION

For more information on the Blue Ridge Heritage Area Craft Trail visit www.blueridgeheritage. com/blue-ridge-craft-trails/ explore-the-craft-trails. For more details on the July Art Crawl in Morganton, call the Downtown Development Association at (828) 438-5252 or search the event on Facebook.

WE SERVICE & REPAIR ALL MAKES & MODELS

164 W. Plaza Dr. Mooresville NC 28117 • 704-235-6650 • M-F 7:30am-8pm Sat 8am-4pm

www.RandyMarionChevy.net

theDestinationMagazine.com 704-706-2365

Shop For Art On The Greene This Summer In Banner Elk

anner Elk’s summer time Art on the Greene shows retur n this year after the coronavir us pandemic forced cancelation last summer. Th e f i n e a r t s h ow s t a ke place on the grounds of the Historic Banner Elk School the fo l l ow i n g we e ke n d s : J u ly 3 - 4 , Au g. 7 - 8 a n d S ep t . 4 - 5 . B o o t h space will be reduced 50 percent to allow for distancing, and attendees should follow all NC protocols for Covid safety.

suppor t historic preser vation. Booth rental proceeds go to the Town of Banner Elk to support the historic school’s new role as a center for visual and performing arts. As a resort town perched at 3,701 feet elevation in Nor th Carolina’s Blue Ridge Mountains, Banner Elk is an ideal location for summertime art shows. High temperatures average in the upper 70s, with lots of sunny days.

“I hope attendees find our town to be a place they want to return and tell other people about,” Tufts says. “I also hope they leave with something tangible, that they find a new piece of ar twork and build a relationship with an artist that “The focus is on embracing enriches their life.” our Appalachian heritage and r e a l ly h i g h l i g h t i n g t h i n g s i n Art on the Greene has no the hand-crafted Appalachian admission fee. Hours are 10 a.m. tradition,” says show director to 5 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. Kimberly Tufts. Th e s h ow s h i g h l i g h t wo rk s from local and regional a r t i s t s r ep r e s e n t i n g a va r i e t y of media, such as ceramics, glass, metal, wood, watercolor, acr ylics and oil.

Shopper s can not only add to their art collections, but also

For more info, visit www.BannerElk. com or call 828-387-0581.

Local & Regional Destinations & Experiences

LUXURY & PERFORMANCE

at the Lake!

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

Open 9 am - 8 pm Weekdays 9 am - 8 pm Saturday

RandyMarionCadillac.com

Service 7:30 am - 8 pm Weekdays 8 am - 4 pm Saturday

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

theDestinationMagazine.com 704-706-2365

Creativity Comes To Life For Henderson County Craft Trails Month

Photo: Blue Ridge National Heritage Area

rt means more when you meet the per son who created it. This July, Hendersonville encourages you to meet the ar tists who live and work along some of the most creative routes in the region.

the Henderson County Tourism Development Authority and the Blue Ridge National Heritage Area, which introduced the trails in 2020 and is working on similar initiatives in 25 WNC counties.

“We’re excited that Henderson County is celebrating July as Blue Ridge Craft Trails Month,” says Angie Chandler, executive director of the Blue Ridge National Heritage Area. “This month long event emphasizes the richness of talent in the area. Henderson County is This year’s event includes artist a perfect example of how Western demonstrations, exhibit openings North Carolina is a vibrant center and other special events. for craft.” Blue Ridge Craft Trails Month highlights three distinct trails throughout Henderson County that bring together studios and g a l l e r i e s f i l l e d w i t h wo rk by nationally renowned artists.

“When people come to our area, they have things in mind that we are known for, and one of those is handmade, one-of-akind crafts,” says Michelle Owens, director of Hender son County Tourism. “Craft Trails Month is a way to highlight these wonderful artisans, so visitors are able to find what they’re looking for.”

The three trails are: Touring t h e H e a r t o f H e n d e r s o nv i l l e, Wa n d e r i n g F l a t R o c k a n d Fi n d i n g Wo n d e r s i n t h e O u t skirts. Fourteen sites are located along the trails, and visitors are encouraged to create their own itineraries based upon geography and personal interest.

Throughout the month, visiThe second annual Craft Trails tors can experience a wood kiln Month is a partnership between firing at Dian Magie Pottery, see

Local & Regional Destinations & Experiences

Lorraine Cathey work her magic with needle felting, mar vel as Melinda Lawton turns metal and stones into intricately designed jewelry, and watch blocks of wood transform into children’s toys at Apple Country Woodcrafters. Wh i l e m o s t g a l l e r i e s ke ep regular hours, some studios are open by appointment only, so visitors should call ahead. For information about Blue Ridge Craft Trails Month in Henderson County — including maps, artist profiles and a full listing of special events — go to http:// www.VisitHendersonvilleNC.org/ businesses/craft-trails or call (800) 828-4244. Printed map brochures are also available.

Everyone is so caring, They care about me the same way they care about my mom. It’s like a family, my mom is happy, and that makes a huge difference, -Residents Daughter-

SummitPlaceOfMooresville.com

TOUCHLESS PASSPORTS & GUIDES SCAVENGER HUNTS • TOURS • TRAILS

Does your Group, Community, Trail Or Association NEED A Safer Passport? Agritourism Self Guided Tours Scavenger Hunts Trails / Associations

SaferPassport.com

Be on every screen Web Page & Domain Included

REPLACE YOUR PAPER PASSPORT theDestinationMagazine.com 704-706-2365

Mount Holly Continued From Page 13

sip hand crafted cocktails made Start the day off right with a at the outdoor bar and munch cup of joe from Catawba Coffee o n Fr e n c h - d i p s a n dw i c h e s , in downtown Mount Holly. recommended by the staff. The Summit Beer Shop offers After you fill up, hop back in a selection of rotating draft beer the car and make the short drive and wine, an outdoor patio and into town where several places weekly food trucks. await your arrival and are ready to serve up a good time. I f yo u a re l o o k i n g fo r a comfortable place to rest your Downtown Mount Holly offers head, Mount Holly offer s two visitors unique retail and dining hotels located only a short drive o p t i o n s t o c o m p l i m e n t yo u r from your adventure; Holiday Inn outdoor activities, altogether Express & Suites and Fairfield making an affordable getaway, I n n & S u i t e s . B o t h o f f e r t h e t h a t w i l l l e a v e a l a s t i n g highest quality service from an impression. Several places in experienced staff as well as free t ow n o f fe r l ive mu s i c. C h e ck Wi-Fi, a seasonal outdoor pool, websites for details. and breakfast. The Smoke and Barrel Cigar Bar and Lounge is housed in a r e f u r b i s h e d g a s s t at i o n o n the edge of historic downtown and is super comfy and a c c o m m o d at i n g , e ve n i f yo u don’t smoke. A t t h e Q u e e n B e e B a ke r y we recommend the Sun Drop cupcake made with the actual soda which was first created in the area.

Now is the time to make your plans for an affordable outdoor getaway on the water, in Mount Holly. Easily accessible to I-85, I-77, and I-485, just outside of Charlotte, on the Catawba River, in Gaston County. 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

theDestinationMagazine.com 704-706-2365

HUNTERSVILLE

MOORESVILLE

9230 Beatties Ford Road

515 Rinehardt Road

L ANCASTERS BBQ.COM

lunch

dinner

full bar

good times

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