SURF CITY – Camden County Heritage Museum and Historic Jail, the Breezeway Motel and Restaurant, and Denise Bridgers with Taylor Companies, owner of Lu Mil Vineyard, were presented the 2025 Tourism Impact Awards by North Carolina Coast Host on Jan. 10. “We were pleased to present our highest tourism award to those who have made a tremendous impact on our industry,” said Salem Clarke, Chairperson of...
VisitPender and the Town of Surf City welcomed Destination Marketing Organizations (DMOs) and tourism management partners across eastern North Carolina to the North Carolina Coast Host Annual Meeting. This esteemed gathering serves as a platform for collaboration, innovation, and growth in promoting the beauty, heritage, and opportunities along the North Carolina coast. The event underscores the significance of...
The inaugural NC First in Freedom Stakeholders Meeting will convene on Wednesday, January 15, 2025, at 9:00 AM at the Cape Fear Museum at 814 Market Street, Wilmington, NC. This pivotal meeting will bring together key leaders, partners, and stakeholders to lay the groundwork for the North Carolina First in Freedom Festival, a monumental celebration honoring over 250 years of American history, culture, and freedom. ‘’This...
Burgaw, NC- The North Carolina Blueberry Festival will host its annual Blueberry Pancake Breakfast fundraiser. The breakfast will take place at the Burgaw Fire Station, located at 109 N Walker St., on Saturday, February 8th, 2025. Blueberry pancakes, sausage, and a beverage of choice will be served from 8 am to 11 am for $10 per person- Children under the age of 5 eat free (donations accepted). Tickets may be purchased...
The Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation Center, located in Surf City, North Carolina, is a dedicated facility committed to conserving and protecting marine turtles. Its mission encompasses rescuing, rehabilitating, and releasing sick and injured sea turtles, educating the public about these creatures' challenges, and providing learning opportunities for students in related fields. Established on...
The Dolphin Dip remains a free, family-friendly event that welcomes everyone to join in the fun. Whether you prefer to make a splash in your favorite costume, a swimsuit, or even bundled up in sweatpants, this event encourages you to embrace your unique style and creativity. Adding to the excitement, participants can take part in costume contests for adults, youth, and groups, making it a memorable way to showcase...
The Town of Burgaw, Pender County Tourism, Pender County Parks and Recreation, and the North Carolina Blueberry Festival welcomes you to ring in the new year with the Annual New Year’s Eve Blueberry Drop and Fireworks Display powered by W.O. Grubb Crane Rental. “The annual Blueberry Drop has enjoyed tremendous success in the last few years due to the hard work of our committee,” said Cody Suggs,...
As the holiday season brightens our beautiful rural communities and coastal skies, we wish you a Merry Christmas filled with joy, happiness, and unforgettable moments. From our pristine beaches to our charming small towns, we’re grateful for the visitors, neighbors, and businesses that make Pender County such a special place. May your holidays be as sweet as our local treats, as warm as our Southern hospitality,...
The Greater Topsail Area Chamber of Commerce's Christmas Flotilla and Market is a beloved seaside tradition that truly captures the magic of the holiday season. This annual event brings together families and friends to celebrate Christmas against the picturesque backdrop of the ocean. The centerpiece of the festivities is the spectacular flotilla, where beautifully decorated boats light up the water with dazzling...
The Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA), part of the U.S. Department of Commerce, has released national and state economic data for 2023, confirming that outdoor recreation remains a powerful engine for the U.S. economy, job creation, and community growth. According to the new government data, outdoor recreation generated $1.2 trillion in economic output, accounted for 2.3% of the U.S. GDP, and supported 5 million...
The Pender Historical Society is thrilled to host its much-anticipated Holiday Homes Tour, an event that invites residents and visitors alike to explore beautifully decorated homes. The Holiday Homes Tour, scheduled for Saturday, December 7, will feature a curated selection of historic homes and landmarks, each adorned with festive holiday decor. Tickets for the Holiday Homes Tour can be purchased in advance at select...
T he holiday magic is about to light up in Hampstead! Join us on Friday, December 6th, from 5:30 to 7:30 PM at Hampstead Kiwanis Park for an evening full of festive fun and community spirit! Here’s what you can look forward to: Tree Lighting Ceremony: Watch as we illuminate the night with holiday cheer! Live Performances: Enjoy seasonal songs and entertainment from local talent that will fill your heart...
The most wonderful time of the year is here, and Pender County is ready to celebrate the magic of the Christmas season with you! From the twinkling lights of our small towns to the cozy coastal charm of our seaside communities, the holiday spirit shines brightly throughout the county. Gather your family and friends and enjoy a festive lineup of events, from tree-lighting ceremonies and holiday markets to Christmas...
As the holiday season kicks into full swing, Shop Small Saturday is the perfect opportunity to celebrate and support the local businesses that make Pender County, NC, a unique and vibrant community. Observed every year on the Saturday following Thanksgiving, this day is all about championing small businesses that contribute to the local economy, foster connections, and bring charm to our neighborhoods. Why Shop Small? When...
This Thanksgiving, we are grateful for the beauty, history, and charm that make Pender County so special. From our sandy beaches to our vibrant small towns and scenic countryside, we’re thankful for all the memories made by visitors and locals alike. As we gather with loved ones, we encourage you to reflect on the adventures shared and the ones yet to come. Whether you’re strolling along the shores of...
The Burgaw Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Department is hard at work anticipating the return of the upcoming Christmas and holiday celebrations set for the months of November and December. Christmas and holiday events will kick off on Saturday, November 30h, at the Annual Christmas Tree Lighting and will conclude on Tuesday, December 31st at the New Year's Eve Blueberry Drop. “We are excited for the...
Celebrate Small Business Saturday in Pender County, NC Small Business Saturday, which occurs the Saturday after Thanksgiving, is more than just a shopping day—it’s a celebration of community, creativity, and entrepreneurship. This day offers a unique opportunity to support local businesses that keep our communities thriving in Pender County, NC, where small-town charm meets a vibrant local economy. Why...
Currie, NC—On Saturday, December 7, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Moores Creek National Battlefield will hold a “Christmas Comes to Currie” event. Park staff, volunteers, and other living historians will offer a variety of programs and demonstrations focused on the celebration of Christmas in the 18th century. These colonial demonstrations include Christmas cooking, playing 18th-century toys and games, candle...
Pender County is preparing for America's 250th anniversary in 2026. We are weaving this celebration into our events, attractions, special museum exhibits, and countywide festivities, honoring local history and culture. America 250 Preparations Planning is in full swing for America 250 Celebrations as we collaborate with local organizations, museums, and schools to reflect on our nation’s history. Preparations...
The hospitality and tourism sector faces unique workforce challenges, including high turnover, seasonal demand fluctuations, and skill gaps, that can only be addressed effectively through a collaborative, industry-wide approach. A sector partnership is a collaborative effort among businesses in a specific industry to address shared workforce challenges and create sustainable solutions collectively. It focuses on improving...
Pender County boasts as one of the most ecologically diverse areas in the U.S. With its barrier islands, marshes, wetlands, and longleaf pine forests, the county is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts where nature lovers can enjoy a variety of activities, from strolling along our sandy beaches and trekking across acres of pine forests to paddling down scenic waterways like the Black River, Northeast Cape Fear River, and the...
You are not going to want to miss this year's Surf City Live NC concert! Tickets are available at www.surfcitylivenc.com
The Ghost Walk of Pender's Past returns, a family-friendly event that promises to be a ghostly good time. Come learn about Pender's Haunted History on the grounds of the Historic Burgaw Cemetery. Hear tales of ghostly sightings, pillaging pirates, historic haunted locations and more. Tours start at 5:30 p.m. Tickets may be purchased online at https://www.ticketleap.events/tickets/ghostwalkofpenderspast/2024...
Discover the latest fall fashions in our charming boutiques, refresh your home décor, find festive holiday decorations, or gear up with new fishing equipment. Get a head start on your Christmas shopping at our favorite unique stores! Thank you for supporting our local small businesses! Every purchase you make with a small, locally owned shop helps our community thrive and strengthens the bond between neighbors....
Celebrate Great Trails State Day! North Carolina is renowned for its picturesque landscapes and diverse ecosystems, making it the perfect state to explore the great outdoors. On Great Trails State Day, we celebrate the incredible network of trails that stretch across the Tar Heel State, from the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains to the serene coastal plains. These trails not only offer access to breathtaking natural...
