April 19, 2025—America250 Program—The events of April 19, 1775, marked a turning point in history. The first shots of the American Revolution were fired in Lexington, Massachusetts—an act that would ignite the struggle for independence. Known as the “Shot Heard ‘Round the World,” this moment signified the beginning of open conflict between colonial militias and British forces. Just...
In partnership with Pender County Tourism, the Pender Arts Council, the Arts Council of Wilmington & New Hanover County, and Thalian Association Community Theatre proudly present, for one weekend only, Home, the Tony Award-nominated play by Pender County’s own Samm-Art Williams. Part of Pender County's 150th Anniversary Celebration, the production will be held on Thalian Hall’s Historic Main Stage,...
Celebrating the 250th anniversary of Paul Revere's ride TOPSAIL BEACH – The Greater Topsail Area Chamber of Commerce & Tourism and the Historical Society of Topsail Island are teaming up to commemorate the 250th Anniversary of Paul Revere’s Ride on April 18, beginning at 7 p.m. at The Assembly Building, 720 Channel Blvd. “Nationwide state capitals and town halls will shine lights in commemoration...
The highly anticipated summer concert series is officially here, bringing a fantastic lineup of live music to our area! Kicking off this season of fun-filled evenings are three exciting performances you won’t want to miss. The Entertainers will take the stage first at Hampstead Alive After Five on Friday, May 16. Get ready to enjoy their iconic beach music sound and feel the rhythm for some classic shagging....
Our 2025 Visitor Guide: Discover the Best of Pender County Pender County Tourism is thrilled to announce the release of the 2025 Pender County Visitor Guide! This new edition is packed with everything visitors need to explore, experience, and enjoy all that Pender County has to offer. The 2025 Visitor Guide will soon be available at visitor centers, local businesses, and online, providing a comprehensive resource...
Burgaw’s music scene is getting a fresh twist this spring with the Burgaw Blueberry Jam Concert Series! Hosted by the Pender Arts Council (PAC) and proudly sponsored by Burgaw Now and Mojotone, also supported by Visit Burgaw and Visit Pender, this exciting new event will bring live music, local artisans, and community spirit together in the heart of downtown Burgaw. The concert series will take place every second...
We are thrilled to introduce PenderConnect, the official podcast that brings you closer to the heart of Pender County! Whether you're a lifelong resident, a new neighbor, or planning your next visit, this podcast is your all-access pass to the people, places, and stories that make our community unique. Each episode of Pender County Connect takes you behind the scenes of what makes our county thrive. Tune in for...
Calling all artists! The Pender Arts Council is excited to announce the opportunity for artists to participate in the 2025-2026 NC First in Freedom Festival Regional Art Contest, an event celebrating America’s 250th Anniversary. This contest is an invitation for artists to showcase their talents and contribute to a significant moment in history, highlighting the cultural, artistic, and historical milestones...
Poplar Grove Plantation’s Herb & Garden Market is a beloved annual event in Pender County, offering a vibrant celebration of springtime, gardening, and local craftsmanship. Nestled in the historic setting of Poplar Grove Plantation in Hampstead, NC, this market brings together plant lovers, herbalists, artisans, and outdoor enthusiasts for a weekend of shopping, learning, and community connection. What...
The best and the brightest in the Southeastern festivals and events industry were spotlighted this week at the Southeast Festivals and Events Association’s 2025 Kaleidoscope Awards Gala, a part of their annual conference held this year in Chattanooga, TN. An especially destructive hurricane season combined with the final stages of pandemic recovery within event teams and budgets makes what these organizations were...
Pender County 150 Years Old: Celebrating a Century and a Half of History and Community Est. February 1875 As Pender County celebrates its 150th anniversary, there’s much to reflect on—our rich history, natural beauty, and communities that make it such a special place. This sesquicentennial marks a significant milestone for a county that has grown and thrived since its founding in 1875. Over the past...
Mark your calendars for March 22, as Hampstead Kiwanis Park hosts the highly anticipated Art in the Park event, a celebration of local fine artists, music, and more. This exciting event is the result of a collaboration between the Greater Topsail Area Chamber of Commerce & Tourism, ArtExposure, the Greater Topsail Arts Association, and Pender County Parks and Recreation. In honor of Pender County’s 150th...
Pender County Tourism is excited to announce the 2025 Pender County Tourism Summit, taking place on Thursday, February 27, 2025, in Hampstead, NC. This dynamic event will bring together industry experts, regional leaders, and local businesses to explore the latest marketing trends and collaborate on innovative strategies to enhance tourism in Pender County and beyond. The summit is to be an engaging day filled with...
Currie, NC- On Saturday, February 22, and Sunday, February 23, Moores Creek National Battlefield will be commemorating the 249th Anniversary of the Battle of Moores Creek Bridge. Park staff, park partners, volunteers, and other living historians will be offering a variety of programs and demonstrations throughout the weekend. The event will begin with a Wreath Laying Ceremony at 10:00 am on Saturday the 22nd. Demonstrations...
Pender County is set to celebrate a milestone moment—its 150th anniversary—with a special ceremony at the Pender County Courthouse on Sunday, February 16, 2025, at 2 p.m. Residents, visitors, and community leaders are invited to come together to honor the county’s rich history and bright future. This commemorative event will feature speeches from local leaders, reflecting on Pender County’s...
Remembering Stephanie Key: A Dedicated Colleague and Cherished Friend With a heavy heart, we announce the passing of Stephanie Key, a beloved assistant with the Pender County Tourism Department, a co-worker, and a dear friend. Stephanie’s unexpected departure has left a hole in our hearts, and she will be profoundly missed by all who knew her. Stephanie was known for her enthusiasm and dedication. She served...
Pender County, like many rural communities across the South, was once home to several Rosenwald Schools, a network of institutions that played a crucial role in African American education during the early 20th century. These schools were built as part of a collaboration between Julius Rosenwald, a philanthropist and president of Sears, Roebuck & Co., and Booker T. Washington, the prominent African American educator...
The Pender County Library is excited to host an exhibit honoring the life and legacy of Samm-Art Williams. Samuel Art Williams was an American playwright, screenwriter, television producer, and actor on stage, television, and film. “Born and raised in Burgaw, Samm-Art Williams graduated from C.F. Pope High School in 1964. He later earned a degree from Morgan State University in Baltimore. His impressive career...
Pender County Tourism is excited to announce the 2025 Pender County Tourism Summit, taking place on Thursday, February 27, 2025, in Hampstead, NC. This dynamic event will bring together industry experts, regional leaders, and local businesses to explore the latest marketing trends and collaborate on innovative strategies to enhance tourism in Pender County and beyond. The summit is to be an engaging day filled with...
We are excited to share that several of our Pender County festivals and events were recognized at the NC Association of Festival and Events (NCAF&E) ShowFest 2025 – Event Innovators Conference! These prestigious excellence awards celebrate the creativity, dedication, and community support that make our local events truly special. Award Recipients: Best Children’s Program – AutumnFest, Town of...
Join us as Pender County will celebrate its 150th anniversary with a special event at the Pender County Courthouse on Feb. 16, 2025, at 2 p.m. The ceremony will include speeches from local leaders and the unveiling of a new clock and historical marker on the courthouse grounds. As part of the sesquicentennial celebration, the county also will create a time capsule to be opened during its bicentennial in 2075. The capsule...
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...
