STORIES

Discover the best of Charlotte-area dining during Queen's Feast. For 10 days in July, more than 125 participating restaurants across the metro region offer special three-course prix fixe dinners at a variety of price points. It's the perfect opportunity to explore new restaurants, revisit local favorites, and enjoy an exceptional dining experience. Reservations are recommended.

We are excited to share the 2026 outdoor evening concert series schedules taking place on the main streets and in our downtowns of Gaston County this summer. Check out our FREE music concerts going on this spring, summer and into the fall. Couple these events with a unique dining experience and/or shopping and you will have a night to remember. Keep an eye on this page for more concerts and details coming soon—we’ll be adding updates as they’re announced! Gastonia Concert Se

Visiting Gastonia for an event, game, or weekend getaway? Discover scenic hikes, walkable downtown experiences, local dining, family-friendly attractions, and outdoor adventures that make every stay worth extending.

Celebrate Independence Day in Gaston County This Independence Day, come celebrate in and around Gaston County! Many of the cities are celebrating with fireworks and live music, while other venues are saluting our nation with unique Independence Day themed events. Here is a list of some great ways to enjoy time with family and friends this holiday. Don't miss the fun, Celebrate Independence Day in Gaston County 2026. Dallas, NC 4th of July July 4, 2026 | Downtown Dallas The G

Across Gaston County, Juneteenth celebrations are bringing communities together through music, storytelling, food, art, and remembrance. From powerful historical exhibits to joyful outdoor festivals and live performances, these events honor freedom while celebrating the culture, creativity, and resilience that continue to shape the region today. Throughout the month, music becomes a powerful thread connecting celebrations across Gaston County — from soulful classics and live

Travel Powers the Economy, Builds Opportunity & Connects America May 3-9, 2026 National Travel and Tourism Week Each year, National Travel and Tourism Week (NTTW) shines a spotlight on the U.S. travel industry’s essential role in driving economic growth, creating jobs, and enhancing the nation’s global competitiveness. “Travel is one of our nation’s most powerful economic engines—supporting millions of jobs, fueling businesses and propelling industries forward,” said Geoff Fr

Photo Credit: Downtown Belmont There’s something magical about live music on a warm evening—when the streets are buzzing, people are dancing barefoot on the grass, and the sound of a great band carries through a charming downtown. Friday Night Live in downtown Belmont, North Carolina is exactly that kind of experience. While Belmont may not always be a full weekend getaway destination, it’s the perfect place to turn a great concert night into an easy overnight stay—and that’s

Memorial Day weekend is the unofficial start of summer—and in Gaston County, it actually feels like it. The beach is open. Peaks are calling. Rivers are moving. Whether you’re planning family time, chasing a little adrenaline, or just looking to slow things down, there’s a version of the weekend here that fits. Get Outside & Make a Day of It (or a Weekend) Summer starts outside—and this is where Gaston County delivers. Start with one of the region’s most iconic views at Crowd

Welcome to Gaston County, where small-town charm meets meaningful Mother’s Day celebrations. Our downtowns across the heart of North Carolina offer a mix of local dining, scenic settings, and memorable experiences designed to help you honor the mothers and mother figures in your life. From waterfront views to historic dining rooms and cozy neighborhood favorites, there’s a place here for every kind of celebration. Mother’s Day in Gaston County | Sunday, May 10, 2026 Drift on

Spring in Gaston County is a time of renewal, celebration, and exciting events that bring the community together. Whether you're looking for a festival full of music and food, a unique outdoor experience, or a chance to find hidden treasures at a book sale, there's something for everyone. Here's a look at the must-attend events happening this spring. Fairy Tale Weekend Date: March 22, 2026 Location: Daniel Stowe Conservancy LEARN MORE Calling all princesses, knights, mermaids

Eastser Egg Hunt Phot Credit: Downtown Belmont Spring is in the air, and Easter is just around the corner! We've got you covered if you're in Gaston County and looking for egg-citing fun. Get ready to hop into the festive spirit with Easter egg hunts happening across the parks of Gaston County. But remember, always double-check the hosting locations for any last-minute date changes. Let's dive into the list and make this Easter egg hunt season one to remember! Easter Egg Hunt

Gaston MAX Saturday, March 28, 2026 11 am – 3 pm The Gaston Multicultural Arts Xperience, or Gaston MAX , will return to Downtown Gastonia. The festival will be on Saturday, March 28, from 11 am to 3 pm at the Rotary Centennial Pavilion, 107 N. South St., Gastonia, NC 28052. This family-friendly event is free and open to all. Hosted by a collaboration between the City of Gastonia , Gaston County Government , Gaston County Public Library , and the Friends of the Gaston County

Discover meaningful ways to spend your free time in Gastonia during Unite 2026. From quiet coffee breaks and family-friendly museums to park walks and group dinners, this guide helps attendees make the most of every moment.

Spring is here, and Gaston County is coming alive. Longer, warmer, sunny days with Carolina blue skies beckon you to get outside and try something new. Here are 21 things to do this spring in Gaston County. Paddling the South Fork River. Photo courtesy of Catawba Riverkeeper 1 Paddle our blueways Sunny days warm our rivers making it fun to paddle the blueways of the Catawba or South Fork River. Grab a boat and head to either for a day of fun on the water. If you have equipmen

Looking for a trail running challenge near Charlotte? Join us on Saturday, March 7, 2026, for Perennial , a timed trail running event at the beautiful Daniel Stowe Conservancy in Belmont, NC. Choose your challenge—3-hour, 6-hour, or 10-hour options—and run along scenic waterfront trails and crushed-gravel loops, perfect for hitting a personal best while enjoying the outdoors. Every loop you complete brings a new opportunity to collect prizes, cheer on fellow runners, and exp

For the first time ever, Monster Truck Wars is invading Gastonia, North Carolina , bringing massive horsepower, flying dirt, and edge-of-your-seat action to Carolina Speedway . This high-energy matinee event is rolling into town for two big shows —perfect for families, motorsports fans, and anyone looking for an unforgettable weekend experience in Gaston County. Monster Truck Wars Gastonia Dates & Times Carolina Speedway 6335 Union Rd., Gastonia Saturday, February 28, 2026

Every season in Gaston County brings something worth celebrating. From signature annual festivals and outdoor adventures to family-friendly traditions and cultural experiences, our events calendar is packed with moments that bring people together all year long. Whether you’re planning ahead or discovering something new, this guide highlights the can’t-miss events that make Gaston County a great place to explore, connect, and celebrate. WINTER Winter in Gaston County doesn’t s

An Unforgettable Spring Adventure Awaits! Spring is the perfect time to get active, explore, and make lasting memories! The 2026 Greater Gaston Senior Games are more than just a competition—they're an opportunity to turn an experience into an adventure. Whether you're competing, cheering on friends, or looking for a fun getaway, Gaston County offers the perfect blend of excitement, relaxation, discovery, and is another example of free and affordable things to do . 2026 Grea

If you have a dinosaur fan, rock hound, or curious explorer in your family, Fossil Fair at The Schiele Museum of Natural History is the perfect reason to plan a winter getaway to Gastonia. This one-day event turns an already exceptional museum into a full-scale prehistoric adventure—complete with fossils, living animals, expert talks, and hands-on experiences you won’t find just anywhere. 2026 Fossil Fair at Schiele Museum of Natural History The annual Fossil Fair will take

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