STORIES

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

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

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

Step into a holiday wonderland as our small towns come alive with festive cheer. Join us as we light up the season with dazzling floats, jolly participants, and heartwarming moments as each town in Gaston County puts on its annual Christmas Parades. Come for the parade, and stay for the magic of the season, including holiday lights, snowless sledding, ice skating, and laser light displays, all part of Christmas County ! Experience the magic of the holidays in our close-knit c

For over a century, Gaston County has been celebrated as a leader in the textile industry. But have you ever wondered what life was like here before the rise of cotton yarn spinning and industrial innovation? The Gaston County Museum of Art & History invites you to uncover the fascinating roots of our region during the Fireside History Series — an exciting lineup of engaging discussions, delicious refreshments, and signature cocktails. Fireside History Series at the Gaston Co

Scarecrow Hollow Located in Belmont, Daniel Stowe Conservancy has for a long time been one of our must-see attractions with spectacular gardens, sparkling fountains, a conservatory dedicated to the display of tropical plants and orchids, nature trails and more. This month will be a great time to visit. See it transition from summer to a fall flourish with their locally created art display "Scarecrow Hollow." These themed scarecrows are on display from September 27 - October

Fall in Love with Autumn in Gaston County! Pumpkin-chunkin’ fun and flannel-filled festivals to outdoor movies, ghost paddles, and live local theater, November is packed with unique ways to celebrate fall around every corner. Turkey Shoot November 1, 2025 | Cramerton Get ready to test your aim at our Turkey Shoot event on Goat Island! Join us for a fun-filled challenge where you could win a frozen Thanksgiving turkey by hitting the bullseye on our turkey targets with paintba

Christmas County is the place to be this holiday season, with festive events and dazzling displays across Gaston County. Here's a guide to the best ways to celebrate this magical time of year. Christmas Town USA December 1-26, 2025 Each December, McAdenville transforms into a winter wonderland as "Christmas Town USA." Walk or drive through glowing displays of green, red, and white lights that shine from 5:30 PM to 10:00 PM each night. Arrive early to enjoy dinner, cocktails,

For Halloween in Gaston County, there’s no shortage of spooky fun for all ages. Whether you’re looking for thrills, family-friendly...

Oktoberfest is a beloved annual festival that celebrates Bavarian culture with lively music, delicious food, and a variety of beer!...

As the leaves start to turn and the air becomes crisp, Gaston County comes alive with many exciting fall events. Our towns offer plenty...

Mark your calendars for October 10 through 12, 2025, because something exciting is coming to Dallas, North Carolina! The annual Cotton Ginning Days festival is back, and it promises to be a weekend filled with fun, nostalgia, and community spirit. This year, exhibitors from across the Southeast will gather to showcase antique steam and gasoline engines and tractors, making it a must-see event for history buffs and families alike. Cotton Ginning Days Dallas, NC | October 10-1

Get your tickets to groove on back to 1977 for Gaston County Museum of Art & History’s Annual Murder Mystery Fundraiser , “Murder Mystery...

Are you a history enthusiast seeking an unforgettable adventure? Here is an opportunity to embark on a journey that will transport you...

Every land holds stories of courage and sacrifice that shape its history. Etched in Kings Mountain is the tale of our nation during the...

We are excited to share our outdoor evening concert series taking place on the main streets and in our downtowns of Gaston County this...

This year marks the 6 th annual “Bon Temps Paddle Battle on Wylie” and they have packed in the fun for those who want to come out and...

Queen's Feast Charlotte Restaurant Week July 18-27, 2025 Explore new dining destinations and rediscover your favorite spots for 10 days...