Spring Events to Look Forward to in Gaston County
- Melissa McCauley
- Mar 1
- 4 min read
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
Calling all princesses, knights, mermaids, fairies and enchanting creatures! Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden is hosting a fairy tale straight out of a story book, March 21 + 22. Kids (and adults!) are encouraged to dress like royalty for a weekend spent creating magical moments through crafts, activities, ruling the Prairie Castle Playground and exploring the Adventure Trail.
Gaston Max
Date: March 28, 2026
Location: Gastonia
Gaston MAX (Multicultural Arts Xperience) returns to Gastonia on March 28 from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM showcasing art, music, literature, and culture. The event will feature international food and activities, music, dancing, and more!
Sprout -n- Shout
Date: April 11, 2026
Location: Hampton Homestead Farm
Spring is calling, and we’re celebrating the season the best way we know how — right here on the farm! Bring the whole family for a full day of live music, local vendors, delicious food, kids’ activities, and farm fun. Enjoy the sunshine, shop handmade treasures, and make some sweet springtime memories. Mark your calendars, tag your friends, and get ready to celebrate the beauty of spring with us at Hampton Homestead Farm’s Spring Fest!
Earth Day at Gateway Trail
Date: April 18, 2026
Location: Kings Mountain Gateway Trail, NC
Honor Earth Day by joining the community at the Gateway Trail for activities focused on environmental awareness and outdoor enjoyment. It's an excellent way to connect with nature and learn more about conservation efforts in the region.
Friends of the Gaston County Public Library Annual Book Sale
Dates: April 6–11, 2026
Location: Gaston County Public Library Main Branch
Gastonia, NCBook lovers, rejoice! This week-long sale offers a wide selection of books, with proceeds supporting library programs and resources. It's the perfect opportunity to stock up on your next great read while supporting a good cause.
Ghost Peppers Opening Weekend
Dates: April 24-25, 2026
Location: CaroMont Health Park, Gastonia
Join the Ghost Peppers for their opening weekend extravaganza as they take on the High Point Rockers. Then on the 26th is Peppy's Birthday. A fiery birthday bash for the team's mascot, Peppy. It's the hottest party at the ballpark you won't want to miss!
Cherry Blossom Festival
Dates: April 24-25, 2026
Location: Downtown Cherryville, NC
Celebrate the beauty of cherry blossoms with events including the Miss Cherry Blossom Pageant, an antique car show, arts and crafts vendors, food stalls, rides, and live entertainment. This family-friendly event brings a touch of spring magic to Cherryville.
Tuck Fest
Date: April 24, 2026
Location: Whitewater Center
A multi-day outdoor celebration packed with adventure, live music, and hands-on fun for all ages. Set against a scenic outdoor backdrop, the festival brings together athletes, artists, and outdoor enthusiasts for a weekend full of energy and exploration.
Garibaldi Festival
Date: April 25, 2026
Location: Stowe Park, Belmont, NC
Enjoy a lively festival filled with live music, artisan vendors, food trucks, and family-friendly activities in the picturesque setting of Stowe Park in Belmont. The Garibaldi Festival is a fantastic way to experience local culture and entertainment.
Piedmont Arts & Cultural Experience
Date: May 2, 2026
Location: Mount Holly, NC
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.
Soulshine n'Sunshine Hippie Festival
Date: May 2, 2026
Location: Hampton Homestead Farms
A vibrant, kid‑friendly Hippie Fest packed with good vibes and fun for all ages! This colorful outdoor festival features live music, yoga sessions, a petting zoo, interactive entertainment, local artisans, unique vendors, delicious food trucks, and classic fishing‑style games for the little ones. Experience a joyful, laid-back atmosphere where families can explore handmade goods, enjoy tasty food, and spend the day connecting with the community.
Goat Island Games
Date: May 2, 2026
Location: Goat Island, Cramerton, NC
Join the community for a variety of sporting events and recreational activities suitable for all ages: 5K run, fishing tournament, corn-hole tournament, disc-golf tournament, mountain bike adventure race by the Tarheel Trailblazers, workouts by Immortal Athletics, yoga by Sweet Peace Yoga, ping pong tournament, pickleball tournament, music, food, and drinks. This event promotes health and wellness while providing a fun and active way to spend a spring day.
Riverfest
Date: May 2, 2026
Location: McAdenville, NC LEARN MORE
This free, family-friendly event celebrates the Catawba River. This jam-packed day will include live music, a plein air art competition, local artisans, craft beer, a kids' zone, and food trucks! —But the real highlight will be the Floating Concert! Grab your tickets today and experience live music on the water as you float down the river from McAdenville to Cramerton!
Down Home Festival
Date: May 7-9, 2026
Location: Bessemer City, NC LEARN MORE
Celebrate spring at the 36th Annual Down Home Festival in Downtown Bessemer City! Enjoy live music and entertainment, local food and craft vendors, fun rides for the kids, hands-on activities, and plenty of family-friendly festivities for all ages.
Hippie Daze Festival
Dates: May 9–10, 2026
Location: Dallas Lavender Lane, Dallas, NC
Step back into the 1960s at the Hippie Daze Festival! Enjoy live '60s/'70s music and vintage vendors, and wear your hippie best for the costume contest and a celebration of peace and love. It's a groovy way to wrap up the spring season.
Plan Your Spring Adventures
Gaston County is full of vibrant events that celebrate community, nature, and culture. Mark your calendar and make the most of this spring with these exciting festivals and gatherings. For more details on these events and other happenings.
