Great annual events to look forward to in Gaston County in 2026
- Melissa McCauley
- 1 day ago
- 12 min read
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 slow things down—it sets the tone for the year ahead. January and February bring a mix of outdoor challenges, hands-on experiences, and family-friendly events that make the most of the season. From trail races and winter adventures to museum programs and unique festivals, it’s a great time to get out, explore, and start marking the calendar for what’s to come.
Dog Days of Winter
February 7, 2026
Whitewater Center
Celebrate winter with your four-legged friends this February with a variety of activities ranging from a 5K trail race, adoption events, clinics, ice rink access, doggy vendors and more. Learn More
Trip to the Tropics
Feb 19 - Mch 1, 2026
Daniel Stowe Conservancy
A tropical oasis awaits – no flight needed. Trip to the Tropics is a two-weekend celebration at the Williamson Conservatory at Daniel Stowe Conservancy filled with lush tropical plants, restorative forest bathing, orchid and tropical plant workshops, tours of the Williamson Conservatory hosted by our knowledgeable Horticulture team and intimate Sip and Stroll evenings featuring delicious tropical cocktails. Learn More
Fossil Fair
February 28, 2026
Schiele Museum
Travel back in time at The Schiele Museum of Natural History during the Annual Fossil Fair. Participants can search for North Carolina fossils, meet live animals (“living fossils”), mine for gemstones, explore the Dino Safari exhibit, talk to geologists and paleontologists, enjoy a dinosaur-themed planetarium show, and learn all about prehistoric life. Learn More
Frigid Trail Race & Plunge
January 31, 2026
Whitewater Center
Brave the cold at the Frigid Trail Race & Plunge with 5K and 10K trail races, then cap it off with an icy plunge into the Deep Water Solo pool. Learn More
Monster Truck Wars
February 28 & March 1, 2026
Carolina Speedway
Get ready for high-octane action at Carolina Speedway! Monster Truck Wars brings monster trucks, mud racing, truck and tractor pulls, and non-stop excitement for fans of all ages. Don’t miss this thrilling, adrenaline-packed show! Learn More
SPRING
Spring arrives with energy and color, filling parks, downtowns, and gardens with festivals that welcome warmer days. From cultural celebrations and art-focused events to outdoor races, poetry crawls, and family-friendly festivals, spring is a time to get outside, explore local communities, and kick off the event season. It’s a favorite time for visitors and locals alike, as Gaston County’s trails, rivers, and gathering places come back to life.
Green River Revival
March 14, 2026
Whitewater Center
Kick off spring this year at the Green River Revival celebrated each year as a part of the St. Patrick's Day celebration. The resident leprechaun transforms the river green then the Color Me Green 5K Trail Run takes place followed by rafting down the river while listening to live music. Learn More
Green River Revival
March 14, 2026
Whitewater Center
A powerful, citywide movement bringing together 100+ churches for three unforgettable nights of worship, teaching, and unity under one name — Jesus. Believers from across the region will stand shoulder-to-shoulder, lifting one sound of worship and hope — calling every heart, every church, every leader, and every generation back to Him. Learn More
Sip & Speak Poetry Crawl
March 20, 2026
Downtown Belmont
Downtown Belmont’s Sip & Speak Poetry Crawl returns this spring, bringing an evening of local poetry to multiple downtown locations. Stroll at your own pace, enjoy light refreshments, and experience original performances in a relaxed, welcoming setting—an event to mark on your calendar and look forward to.. Learn More
Gaston Max
March 28, 2026
Gastonia Rotary Pavilion
The City of Gastonia, Gaston County Government, Gaston County Public Library, and the Friends of the Gaston County Public Library are partnering to host Gaston MAX (Multicultural Arts Xperience), showcasing art, music, literature, and culture, international food, music, dancing, and more! Learn More
Gaston County Public Library Book Sale
April 6-11, 2026
GC Library Main Branch
Mark your calendars for the week long, Gaston County Public Library Annual Book Sale put on by Friends of the Gaston County Public Library. Learn More
Garibaldi Festival
April 25, 2026
Downtown Belmont
The Garibaldi Festival returns to Stowe Park with a lively celebration of art, music, and community. This annual spring tradition brings together creative expression, vibrant performances, and a festive atmosphere—an event to look forward to that captures the spirit of the season. MORE TO COME
SoundWaves Music Festival
April 18, 2026
Dallas Park Amphitheater
Back this year, the SoundWaves – A Free Music Festival at the Dallas Park Amphitheater will be a high-energy, family-friendly music event. Admission is FREE – bring your friends, family, lawn chairs, and dancing shoes! Learn More
Earth Day Celebration
April 18, 2026
Kings Mountain Gateway Trail
The City of Kings Mountain will host an Earth Day Celebration, in honor of Earth Day’s Anniversary. The event will feature free activities from local organizations, live zoo animals, dinosaurs, music, food vendors, and family-friendly entertainment. Guests can also take part in releasing 200 Painted Lady butterflies to support pollinator conservation. Learn More
Cherry Blossom Festival
April 24-25, 2026
Gazebo Mini-Park, Cherryville
The 2026 Cherry Blossom Festival attendees will enjoy the Miss Cherry Blossom Pageant, food vendors, rides, entertainment, antique car show, eating contests, bounce houses, art & crafts, and an array of food and beverage options. Learn More
Tuck Fest
April 24-26, 2026
Whitewater Center
This multi-day festival celebrates outdoor lifestyle with exhibitions, demos, live music, and a variety of outdoor competitions that include trail running, kayaking, biking, climbing, stand-up paddle boarding, obstacle, and adventure racing. Learn More
Garibaldi Festival
April 25, 2026
Stowe Park
Mark your calendars to save the date for this fun day long festival at Stowe Park in Belmont, NC. It will be a full day of live music from a variety of genres, art exhibits, unique artisan vendors, and amazing food. MORE TO COME
Piedmont Arts & Cultural Experience
May 2, 2026
Mount Holly
The City of Mount Holly invites you to a brand-new festival celebrating arts and culture! Experience a wide variety of art, shop with local artisan vendors, contribute to community art projects, enjoy delicious food, and take in performances from musicians, dancers, vocalists, painters, and more. With activities for all ages, it’s the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in art and connect with the community. Learn More
Goat Island Games
May 2, 2026
Goat Island in Cramerton
The South Fork Catawba River comes alive at Goat Island Park in Cramerton for a day full of fun and activity! From runs and disc golf to mountain biking, yoga, fishing, and more, there’s something for everyone. Enjoy music, food, drinks, and games while exploring all that this scenic park has to offer. Learn More
RiverFest
May 2, 2026
McAdenville-Cramerton
Enjoy a day on the water filled with live music, kayaking, food trucks, and a floating concert experience. The event also features a plein air art competition, local vendors, and activities for kids, making it a fun and engaging outing for all ages. Proceeds from the event support efforts to preserve, protect, and restore local waterways. MORE TO COME
Reptile & Amphibian Day
May, 2026
Schiele Museum
Discover the fascinating world of reptiles and amphibians at Reptile & Amphibian Day at The Schiele! Enjoy hands-on activities, interactive presentations, and opportunities to meet amazing animals while learning from local experts. From turtle races to nature trail exploration, it’s a fun and educational day for curious minds of all ages. MORE TO COME
Down Home Festival
May 7- 9, 2026
Bessemer City
The annual Down Home Festival in Downtown Bessemer City is returning this year. Be ready for more fun to include live entertainment, music, food, vendors, fun for kids, crafts, and much more. MORE TO COME
Butterfly Festival
May 23-25, 2026
Daniel Stowe Conservancy
Immerse yourself in the Butterflies at the Butterfly Bungalow at Daniel Stowe Conservancy butterflies emerge from hungry caterpillars to beautiful butterflies – an exciting opportunity to learn about and interact with the butterflies you might find in your backyard, educational workshops, kids' crafts, specialty food/drinks, and more. MORE TO COME
SUMMER
As summer unfolds, the calendar stays full. Free concert series in downtowns across the county turn evenings into laid-back celebrations, while festivals and outdoor events invite people to linger longer. A trip to a Gastonia Ghost Peppers game at CaroMont Health Park is a summer tradition of its own—bringing together baseball, family fun, and the unmistakable feeling of a hometown crowd. From river festivals to outdoor competitions, summer in Gaston County is built for long days, live music, and making memories.
Gastonia Ghost Peppers
April-Sept
Caromont Health Park
Catch the excitement of professional baseball all season long with the Gastonia Ghost Peppers at CaroMont Health Park in Gastonia. From April through September, enjoy thrilling home games, family-friendly fun, and an electric game-day atmosphere that makes summer nights unforgettable. Learn More
Summer Concerts
May-Sept
Downtowns in Gaston County
Live music concerts takes place in several of our downtowns throughout the summer months. Keep an eye on our calendar of events as summer draws near for the list of locations and dates. Learn More
National Trails Day - Bigfoot
June 5, 2026
George Poston Park
In celebration of National Trails Day, enjoy the trails at George Poston Park. Join us for hiking, a scavenger hunt, and more! You never know when there might be a Big Foot Siting! Learn More
Comic Con
June 6, 2026
GC Library in Gastonia
The Annual Gaston County Public Library Comic-Con returns with a fun, family-friendly celebration for all ages. Look forward to comic and toy vendors, costume contests, games, activities, and exciting character appearances—plus new interactive experiences at the library to make this year’s event even bigger. MORE TO COME
Independence Day Celebrations
July 2026
Multiple Locations
Keep an eye on our annual event calendar for a comprehensive list of Independence Day festivities, including spectacular fireworks displays. Don't miss out on the excitement. Learn More
Catfish Tournament
July 11, 2026
Dallas Park
Coming July 2026, this annual Catfish Tournament is expanding to include seniors alongside the popular kids’ competition. Held at Dallas Park, the event features separate ponds for youth (15 & under) and seniors, making it a fun, family-friendly way to introduce kids to fishing. Prizes will be awarded, and the tournament is part of the NC Wildlife Resources Commission’s Fish for Fun program. Learn More
Bug Day
August, 2026
Schiele Museum
Get ready to explore the tiny but mighty world of bugs at The Schiele! This special event invites curious minds to learn about insects and arachnids through hands-on activities, outdoor exploration, and interactive experiences—perfect for families and nature lovers alike. MORE TO COME
NC BeachBlast Festival
August 22, 2026
Kings Mountain
The Beach Blast Festival is a free, family-friendly event bringing beach vibes to Kings Mountain. Enjoy live music and a variety of beach-themed activities, including inflatables, games, kids’ activities, water play, craft vendors, food vendors, and plenty of fun for all ages. Learn More
FALL
When fall arrives, Gaston County leans into the season with creativity and charm. Festivals celebrate local history, literature, and the arts, while Halloween and harvest-time events bring families out for pumpkins, parades, and festive fun. Cooler weather makes it the perfect time to enjoy outdoor events, stroll through downtowns, and take part in traditions that have been celebrated here for generations. It’s a season that blends nostalgia with new experiences—and one many locals mark on their calendars every year.
Magic of Science
August 2026
Schiele Museum
Step into a world of magic at The Schiele’s Magic of Science! After hours, the museum transforms into a wizarding-inspired experience filled with hands-on activities, themed learning, and spellbinding fun. Don your robes and get ready for an enchanting evening for witches and wizards of all ages. MORE TO COME
Hall of Dinosaurs
September 2026
Schiele Museum
Get ready to explore the Elizabeth Williams Robinson Hall of Dinosaurs at The Schiele Museum! This exciting new exhibit will feature real fossils, interactive learning experiences, and life-sized dinosaur skeletons—including T. rex, Triceratops, Stegosaurus, and more—making it a must-see for dinosaur fans of all ages. MORE TO COME
Scarecrow Hollow
September & October, 2026
Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden
Explore Scarecrow Hollow at Daniel Stowe Conservancy featuring scarecrows designed by members, supporters, and local organizations. While some Scarecrows are traditional, some are space age, and others are made of live plants; each one is a magical contribution to our fall festivities. MORE TO COME
Arbor Day & Fishing Derby
September 12, 2026
Cramerton
Celebrate Arbor Day in Cramerton with a day of outdoor fun, community activities, and kid-friendly events. Enjoy nature-themed activities, youth fishing derby, and opportunities to connect with the community while celebrating the season—all free and open to the public. MORE TO COME
Literary Festival
September 5, 2026
Downtown Belmont
The Belmont Literary Festival returns this summer, bringing a full day of books, storytelling, and community to downtown. Enjoy author readings, story times, panel discussions, live entertainment, and interactive activities for all ages—an event book lovers won’t want to miss. MORE TO COME
Fall Festival
October 17, 2026
Gastonia
Save the date for the Fall Festival in downtown Gastonia this October 17th 2026. There will be food trucks, a beer garden, live music, vendors, entertainment, a free KidsZone with mechanical rides, inflatables, and carnival games with prizes. MORE TO COME
Pumpkin Piddle Paddle
October 23, 2026
Mount Holly
The next Pumpkin Piddle Paddle is scheduled at River Street Park in Mount Holly! This family-friendly fall event brings the community together for an evening of fun, entertainment, food, and seasonal activities along the creek. Bring your pumpkins to be part of the floating display and enjoy a festive night filled with music, games, and treats for all ages. This event is free and perfect for families looking to celebrate the season. Learn More
Lantern Parade
October 24, 2026
Mount Holly
Nine years strong, the Mount Holly Lantern Parade returns with this year’s theme, The Wide World of Sports—a celebration of movement, teamwork, and community creativity. This free community event is presented by Awaken Gallery in collaboration with the City of Mount Holly and the Mount Holly Community Development Foundation, with support from Stanton Enterprise and the Mount Holly TDA. Whether you want to make a lantern, march in the parade, or simply learn how to participate, everything you need to know can be found here: Learn More
Cotton Ginning Days
October 9-11, 2026
Dallas Park
Exhibitors from all over the southeast will convene in Dallas, NC for the annual 'crank-up' of antique steam and gasoline engines and tractors. In addition to the engine show, many activities are planned including a kids county fair, heritage arts area, handmade craft vendors, and music. So mark your calendars and plan to join GAMTRA and Gaston County Parks and Recreation Department as we present Cotton Ginning Days. As always, the food is good and admission and parking are free. Learn More
Fall Festival
October 17, 2026
C.B. Huss Recreation Complex
The Cramerton Fall Festival returns with a free, family-friendly evening celebrating the season. Enjoy games, activities, kid-friendly fun, and opportunities to shop with local vendors, all in a festive fall atmosphere perfect for the whole community. MORE TO COME
Gaston Writer's Expo
November 2, 2026
GC Library Main Branch
Celebrate local voices at the Gaston Writers Expo with storytimes, crafts, live readings, and performances; connect with authors, poets, and makers; and discover something new as you shop books, art, and handcrafted goods — all at the Gaston County Main Library in Gastonia! MORE TO COME
Turkey Shoot
November 7, 2026
Goat Island, Cramerton
Join us on Goat Island for a fun, family-friendly shooting event with a chance to win a Thanksgiving turkey. Participants can test their aim in a casual, festive setting, with all supplies provided. Open to all ages and perfect for a laid-back fall outing. MORE TO COME
Flannel Fest
November 21, 2026
Cramerton
Flannel Fest returns this fall with an evening of live entertainment, activities, food and drinks, shopping, and plenty of fall vibes. Guests are encouraged to wear their favorite flannel and enjoy a fun, community-focused celebration in Cramerton. MORE TO COME
WINTER
The winter season in Gaston County culminates in a celebration of holiday traditions through Christmas County. Throughout the county, towns light up with festive displays, parades, and seasonal events that invite visitors and locals to slow down and enjoy the magic of the season. From charming downtown celebrations to beloved annual traditions, the holidays offer yet another reason to experience Gaston County.
Christmas County
December 2026
Gaston County
Christmas is a magical time in Gaston County, from holiday lights, to festivals, parades, skating, snowless sledding, tree lightings, holiday markets and more. Christmas County returns as as a way of showcasing all of the holiday events taking place in Gaston County. Learn More
Christmas Town USA
December 2026
McAdenville
Each December, the small town of McAdenville—just west of Charlotte—transforms into the beloved Christmas Town U.S.A.®. With thousands of twinkling red, green, and white lights, the town becomes a festive holiday destination welcoming visitors from near and far. Guests can walk or drive through the charming downtown to experience the light display, enjoy local dining and shopping, and take part in cherished traditions like the Tree Lighting Ceremony and the historic Yule Log Parade. A visit to Christmas Town U.S.A.® is a timeless holiday experience filled with warmth, community spirit, and classic Christmas magic. Learn More
Holidays at the Garden
December 2026
Daniel Stowe Conservancy
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, this cherished annual tradition offers a perfect way to make memories and celebrate the season with family and friends. MORE TO COME
Holidays Havoc
December 2026
Schiele Museum
Dino Safari: Holiday Havoc is a seasonal, family-friendly event where Santa and his elves attempt to deliver presents to life-sized dinosaurs. The exhibit features "prehistoric chaos," including scenes like gingerbread men and festive, chaotic, and humorous, dino-themed scenes. MORE TO COME
New Years Shooters
December 31, 2026
Cherryville
Musket shooting on New Year's Day is one of the oldest traditions around the world. In Cherryville NC they continue this tradition complete with a new year’s chant and musket blasts. Learn More
Annual Events in Gaston County 2026
As the seasons unfold in Gaston County, each event promises to be a chapter in a year filled with joy, adventure, and community spirit. We invite you to save the dates, plan your visits, and immerse yourselves in the diverse array of experiences that make our county special. No matter the occasion, Gaston County welcomes you to create cherished moments throughout the year. Join us in celebrating the unique culture, vibrant community, and exciting events that make our county a destination worth exploring. See you at the festivities!
