STORIES

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

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

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

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, 2026 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,

If you haven’t visited Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden lately, you’re missing one of the most beautiful experiences in Gaston County. Recently refreshed and thriving year-round, the Garden offers something new every season—from breathtaking landscapes to family-friendly attractions and immersive events. Here are five great reasons to plan your visit. 5 great reasons to visit Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden Garden admission is required to explore these spaces. 1. Fountains, Flowe

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

Peak color for this area is soon to arrive, so make your plans now for a weekend getaway, hit the trails, feel the fresh fall air, and enjoy

Your next outdoor adventure starts here in Gaston County. This destination is an amazing for families to get outside, become one with...

Hi friends! It’s me, Gaston the Eagle — and I’ve got some exciting news for all my fellow adventurers of every age ! This summer, a wave...

View of the Charlotte Skyline from the top of Spencer Mountain in Gaston County Imagine standing on a peaceful mountaintop, the Charlotte...

Embrace the final rays of summer and make this Labor Day weekend unforgettable by venturing to Gaston County—a hidden gem nestled in the heart of North Carolina. As the season draws to a close, there's no better place to bid farewell to summer than amidst the charm and splendor of Gaston County. Here, you can revel in an array of holiday festivities, bask in the glory of our breathtaking outdoor activities, immerse yourself in our rich culture and history, and savor delectabl

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...

Are you dreaming of an unforgettable summer vacation? Look no further than Gaston County, North Carolina, the perfect destination for...

Welcome to Gaston County, where nature's beauty and recreational bliss unite. Nestled in the heart of North Carolina, this charming county boasts many parks, each offering unique amenities and attractions. Whether you're an avid hiker, a biking enthusiast, love paddling, or simply seeking tranquility amidst lush greenery, Gaston County's parks have something for everyone. Let's embark on a virtual journey to discover these ten must-visit parks. Explore the Parks in Gaston Cou

National Trails Day, established by the American Hiking Society (AHS), is an annual celebration on the first Saturday in June. Founded by AHS, a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving and promoting hiking trails and outdoor recreational spaces in the United States, this event aims to inspire individuals to explore and appreciate the beauty of trails while advocating for their preservation and conservation. Since its inception in 1993, National Trails Day has evolved

Looking for things to do with your family this summer? Gaston County has you covered with a wide range of activities for all ages and...

Thanks to warmer weather and longer days, May is a great time to travel. Memorial Day is a three-day weekend, creating the perfect...

Gaston County Tourism is proud to sponsor RiverFest 2026 , a day-long celebration of the Catawba River hosted by Catawba Riverkeeper . This unforgettable festival invites you to experience the best of Gaston County—local music, outdoor adventure, art, food, and family fun—all while supporting clean water and river conservation. Make plans now to spend Saturday, May 2, 2026 on the banks of the South Fork in downtown McAdenville , with the party floating downstream to Cramerto

Meet us at the Caromont Health Park ball park on May 9, 2025 for a fun night of baseball as the Gastonia Ghost Peppers take on the High...