STORIES

Cold temperatures and the occasional snowy day in North Carolina may slow us down, but winter is actually one of the best seasons to get outside and walk. January is the perfect time to reset, move your body, and reconnect with nature—without the heat, bugs, or crowds. From peaceful trails to scenic river walks, Gaston County offers plenty of winter-friendly places to explore . Here’s why winter walking is worth it—and where to lace up your shoes. Easy Paved Open Walk at Goa

Looking for fun and engaging activities this winter? Gaston County offers a variety of ways to enjoy the season, whether you’re exploring the great outdoors or staying cozy inside. From illuminated trails to antique shopping and everything in between, here’s a guide. Top Winter Things to Do in Gaston County 1. Wander Through a Tropical Paradise Escape the cold and enjoy the vibrant beauty of the William H. Williamson, III, Orchid Conservatory . This tropical haven is the perf

From time-honored traditions to lively parties and family-friendly celebrations, Gaston County offers countless ways to ring in the New Year. Whether you’re drawn to the echo of historic musket fire in Cherryville, an early countdown with the kids, an energizing outdoor hike, or a night of music, dancing, and dining, there’s a New Year’s Eve experience for everyone to welcome 2026 in style. A Traditional New Year's Eve New Year's Eve Shooters | Cherryville One of the oldest t

Winter at Daniel Stowe Botanical Conservancy is a season of quiet wonder and unexpected beauty. The crisp air, shimmering frost, and peaceful trails invite visitors to slow down and reconnect with nature in a way that only winter can provide. Every path and garden corner tells a story, and each visit offers something new to see, hear, and feel. Unique winter beauty: what to look for Winter transforms the Garden into a living gallery of textures, colors, and forms. Evergreen

Welcome to the thrill-packed winter wonderland at Whitewater Center. From the exhilarating glide of outdoor ice skating to the captivating glow of a Winter Trail. Activities run throughout the day and into the night. This outdoor haven is your ticket to a memorable winter. Embrace the festive spirit. Grab your Christmas Trees, join the adult pond hockey league, or dive into the frosty excitement of winter races. Starting mid-November through mid-February, experience the magic

Blue Heron: Birdwatching on the Catawba River in Gaston County Nestled in the heart of North Carolina, Gaston County beckons birdwatching enthusiasts to experience a captivating symphony of avian wonders. This three-day birdwatching trilogy will have you exploring the diverse landscapes, from the meandering Catawba River to the picturesque woodlands of Crowders Mountain State Park, making Gaston County a sought-after destination for both seasoned birdwatchers and eager begin

Bonico has officially opened on Main Street in downtown McAdenville , and it’s quickly becoming a must-visit shopping stop this holiday season. With its warm atmosphere and beautifully curated space, Bonico offers a shopping and event experience that feels both elegant and welcoming. A Must-See Holiday Stop in Christmas Town USA During the holidays, Bonico becomes an absolute must-see when visiting Christmas Town USA® in downtown McAdenville. The shop transforms into a fest

Winter is a season of possibilities for family travel—whether you're seeking educational adventures, a break from routine, or ways to keep kids engaged during cooler days. If you're looking for a destination that combines learning, exploration, and fun, the Schiele Museum  in Gaston County, NC, is a must-visit. With engaging exhibits and activities for all ages, it’s the perfect spot to make winter memories together. Why Visit the Schiele Museum in Winter? The Schiele Museum

Looking for a cozy yet exciting winter getaway? Look no further than Gaston County, where the newly expanded Catawba Two Kings Casino  in Kings Mountain offers the perfect combination of entertainment, relaxation, and a touch of adventure. With the addition of live table games like blackjack, craps, and roulette, the casino is now more enticing than ever. Pair this with Gaston County’s rich history, charming small towns, and outdoor beauty; you have all the ingredients for an

The Chutes Winter Tubing Get Tickets for 2025 Now! Add excitement to your celebrations at The Chutes in Gaston County this Christmas. Experience the thrill of snowless tubing on our custom-designed lanes, offering the fun of traditional snow tubing without the freezing temperatures. Enjoy a night of laughter and joy with your friends and family as you ride down the Chutes, suitable for singles and doubles, ensuring a delightful experience for children of all ages. After your

If you’re looking for a peaceful, nature-rich escape close to Charlotte and Gaston County, Mountain Island Educational State Forest (ESF)  is officially open and ready to welcome visitors. This picturesque forest stretches across Gaston and Lincoln counties and offers an experience unlike anywhere else in the region—blending scenic trails with hands-on learning about North Carolina’s forests, wildlife, and water resources. Whether you love hiking, exploring nature with your f

Choosing the right location for a wedding is about more than just a beautiful venue. It’s about finding a place that offers convenience, charm, and activities that guests can enjoy before and after the big day. Gaston County in North Carolina fits this description perfectly. With its accessible location, welcoming venues, and a variety of seasonal attractions, it stands out as an ideal wedding destination. Daniel Stowe Conservancy in Gaston County Easy Access from Major Citie

From glowing lights to festive parades and holiday markets, Gaston County has transformed into Christmas County, USA! Each town celebrates in its own magical way, making it perfect for a day trip or an extended holiday getaway. Here’s a guide to all the holiday happenings across our charming towns. McAdenville: Christmas Town USA Experience the magic in McAdenville, famously known as Christmas Town USA. Christmas Town USA  | Dec 1 - Dec 26, 2025 Wander or drive through dazzli

Experience the magic of live theater in Gaston County, where each show is just the beginning of your adventure. Pair your play with unforgettable dining and one-of-a-kind shopping for a night (or day!) to remember. Each town offers its own unique charm, so whether you're catching a show in Gastonia, Belmont, Cherryville, or Kings Mountain, make time to explore the cozy shops, trendy boutiques, and local eateries that make Gaston County a true gem. Here’s your guide to the the

More than 600,000 visitors travel thru McAdenville during Christmas Town USA to save you some time, here are some things to keep in mind to help you make the most of it. How to make the most of McAdenville's Christmas Town USA What’s in the Name McAdenville is nicknamed Christmas Town USA for a good reason. Every winter, this small town in North Carolina transforms into a festive, twinkling wonderland, dotted with thousands of lights, dramatic displays and a spirited Main Str

Get ready to enter a world of festive lights and seasonal cheer at Daniel Stowe Conservancy's "Holidays at the Garden" — the heart of Gaston County's winter celebration! From November 28 to December 27, 2025, the Garden transforms into a holiday wonderland where twinkling lights, sparkling fountains, and immersive holiday displays bring the season's magic to life. Open select evenings from 5 to 10 pm, this cherished annual tradition offers a perfect way to make memories and

Celebrate the Holidays at the Schiele Museum Step into a magical evening at the Schiele Museum of Natural History, where The Farm and planetarium glow with festive spirit during our “Holidays on the Farm” nights. Wander through paths lined with thousands of twinkling lights, festive wreaths and cheerful holiday trees. Warm up by the bonfire with a cup of hot cocoa, then drift into the dome of our planetarium for a dazzling laser-light show filled with holiday classics. Holida

As the holidays approach, there's no better time to return home and experience the exciting changes across Gaston County. Whether you've been away for a few months or years, 2025 has seen a vibrant blossoming of new businesses, community spaces, and cultural hotspots across towns like Gastonia, Belmont, Mount Holly, Dallas, McAdenville, Cherryville, and Kings Mountain. Whether you're visiting for the season or living here year-round, here's your guide to the fresh new gems an

CHRISTMAS TOWN USA 2025 December 1-26 Christmas Town USA   is one of the top destinations in Gaston County during the holidays. Located in McAdenville ,  a small town just west of Charlotte, NC it transforms this small mill town in the evenings with a light display running through the town, complete with holiday music. THE TRADITION It all started in 1956, when the McAdenville Men's Club, along with Mr. W. J. Pharr, Pharr's founder, and president at the time, conceived the i

Uncover the holiday magic in Western North Carolina with Cathy Bennett Kopf's festive guide on She Buys Travel. From enchanting garden illuminations at Daniel Stowe Conservancy to the Jonas Brothers' Nellie's Southern Kitchen , experience the charm of McAdenville's Christmas Town USA and indulge in the delights of the Esquire Hotel in Gastonia.