Harvest the fun! Make the most of the season in Gaston County

Butterflies and Scarecrows

Located in Belmont, Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden 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 28 - October 30, 2022

Get there early in the month for the butterfly release. On September 5th, visitors can watch as the garden releases beautiful native butterflies from the Butterfly Bungalow. Better yet, visitors help take small amounts of the native butterflies from the bungalow to their new home in the garden.

Muscadines and Scuppernongs

Indigenous to the Southeast region, now is the time to harvest muscadine and scuppernong grapes. Eat 'em fresh, make pies, or wine. The store at Lineberger's Maple Springs Farm in Dallas will be filled with their aroma and will be available both ready picked and pick your own. The season officially starts Labor Day weekend and runs until the last week in September. While you are there, make some time to check out the unique playground for kids of all ages. This farm is such a fun spot you'll want to make the most of it before it closes for the season at the end of October.

Take a Harvest Moon Paddle

Did you know the strong light of the harvest moon allowed early settlers to work late into the night to harvest their crops? This month you can enjoy this full moon by taking a paddle on the evening of September 11th. Anchored Soul is hosting and will be taking guests that have reserved a spot via their mobile shop, for a fun evening on the river to enjoy the moon.

Discover The Science Behind Fall

Committed to inspiring curiosity and understanding of science and the natural world, visitors to Schiele Museum can discover the stars, planets, and other celestial events visible in the sky through a program at the planetarium, The Fall Sky Tonight. Other fall inspired events and exhibits include; Schiele-O-ween, Autumn Festival, Pumpkin Patch Party, Schiele’s Pumpkin Patch and more. Kiddos ages two to five will enjoy the Early Explorer programs about scarecrows, apples, farms, barns, and more.

The Crusaders Return

Our Belmont Abbey Athletes are back for the 2002 school year. Did you know that this school of roughly 1,600 students competes in 26 different NCAA sports? There is something special about attending theses events. You can't beat the passion found in the players and fans at a Belmont Abbey College game as they "leave it all on the field." Get in on the energy at Belmont Abbey College where the Crusaders "Fight for the Red". The Belmont Abbey Crusaders participate in the NCAA's Division II program and are members of Conference Carolinas.

Enjoy a Cool Hike

Climb rugged peaks rising 800 feet above the surrounding countryside and 1,600 feet above sea level. Rocky ledges and outcrops are the perfect seats from which to view the panorama below. A visit to Crowders Mountain State Park might include hiking along their more than 20 miles of trails, rock climbing, backcountry camping, picnicking or fishing. Additional features include a visitors center with restrooms and exhibit hall.