STORIES

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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

The magic of McAdenville, North Carolina, is featured in USA Today’s GO Escape Winter 2025 . From Dec. 1–26, this small town 16 miles west of Charlotte transforms into a sparkling holiday wonderland. Visitors can stroll or drive past half a million lights, enjoy the historic charm of the town, and make it a full holiday weekend with nearby activities — including Holidays at the Garden   at Daniel Stowe Conservancy in Belmont, snowless sledding at The Chutes in Kings Mountai

The holidays shine brightest right here in McAdenville , North Carolina — better known as Christmas Town USA — and now this beloved small town has been nominated for Best Christmas Town 2026 in the Newsweek Readers’ Choice Awards! Each year, Newsweek’s editorial team highlights destinations that capture the true magic of the season. From charming light displays to festive traditions, these towns embody everything we love about the holidays. For nearly 70 years, Christmas Tow

Now that fall has arrived, Gaston County’s local breweries are embracing the season with brews that capture the rich, comforting flavors of autumn. From pumpkin and spices to other seasonal delights, these crafted beers offer a taste of fall that invites you to savor every sip. Whether you're a local or a visitor, these fall-inspired brews create the perfect opportunity to celebrate the season and gather with friends over a refreshing pint. Phoned In Pumpkin Ale at Cavendish

Embrace the flavors of autumn in Gaston County by exploring the delightful offerings of our locally owned coffee shops nestled in the heart of our charming downtowns. Check out these Coffee Shops this Fall in Gaston County Catawba Coffee | In Mount Holly Catawba Coffee is a local favorite and a regular stopping place on route to work, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee filled the air, drawing people in like a siren's call. What sets them apart is their unwavering commitment t

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

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

For those who love to indulge during a vacation, here's your go-to guide to make the most of National Ice Cream Month this July in our...

Spring in Gaston County is a time of renewal, celebration, and exciting events that bring the community together. Whether you're looking...

As March ushers in the promise of spring, Gaston County gears up for an explosion of emerald excitement with its vibrant St. Patrick's...

Autumn is the perfect time to explore the charm of Gaston County’s historic downtowns . As the leaves change color, our walkable streets...

Gaston County is full of natural places to explore. From the shores of the Catawba River—where stoic herons stand in wait for their next...

Get ready for the most exciting event of the year – Fork Fest 2024, scheduled for Saturday, August 31, and Sunday, September 1, 2024....

Every day is good to be on the water in Gaston County as the scenic views, public access areas and boat rental options abound. Here are...