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...
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...
