Things To Do in NC When You’re Bored — December 1-4

By Kay Whatley, Editor

This list covers events from the North Carolina counties of Edgecombe, Franklin, Nash, Johnston, Wake, Wayne, Wilson, and beyond.

In addition to the events below, the North Carolina State Fairgrounds is hosting multiple December events. Their list may be found online here.

A variety of coastal events may be found via What’s On Wilmington’s calendar.

Thursday, December 1, 2016

Crafternoon (December 1, 2016 @ 2-4pm)

Join this monthly crafting club, even bring your own craft project. Meet in the Assembly Room, at the Wilson County Public Library, 249 Nash St W, Wilson NC. The library event is online here, along with other upcoming events.

Teens “How To” on Genealogy (December 1 @ 4pm)

This special teen workshop is being held in the Assembly Room at the Wilson County Public Library, 249 Nash Street W, Wilson NC. For more information, contact Leslie at 252.237.5355.

NC Industrial Hemp Commission Second Public Meeting (December 1, 2016 @ 10am)

This is the second Commission meeting, designed to establish the industrial hemp pilot program for the state. The meeting is being held at the Agronomics Building, 4300 Reedy Creek Road, Raleigh NC. Contact Lori Pfister with the NC Industrial Hemp Commission with questions at at 919.707.3236. The NC Industrial Hemp Commission is part of the NC Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. The commission’s Hemp Page is www.ncagr.gov/hemp.

Movie & Munchies (December 1, 2016 @ 5:30-7:30pm)

Enjoy Snacks and a classic movie in this adult program at Braswell Memorial Library, 727 N Grace Street, Rocky Mount NC. Call LaKesha Joyner, Adult Programming Librarian, at 252.442.1951 x.253 for this month’s movie title.

Smithfield Tree Lighting (December 1, 2016 @ 7-9pm)

Bring the family out to see Santa, decorate cookies, sing Christmas carols, and listen to choirs sing. Then, enjoy the evening as the town light up the night at East Market Street, Smithfield NC. This event is kid friendly and family safe. Come join us in making Christmas memories. For details, call 919.934.1408.

Clayton Christmas Village and Tree Lighting (December 1, 2016)

Ring in the holiday season with the Town of Clayton NC‘s festive and ever-popular celebration. Thousands of people pack Main Street and help bring downtown Clayton alive with the holiday spirit! Starting at 5:30pm, Main Street hosts 2-1/2 hours of music, holiday cheer, a business open house, a live Nativity, and a chance to sit on Santa’s lap and tell Saint Nick what’s on your Christmas wish list. At the end of the night, the traditional tree lighting ceremony will take place on the corner of Fayetteville and Main Streets. The festivities are organized by the Clayton Downtown Development Association Inc.

A Night in Bethlehem (Dec 1, 2 & 3, 2016 @ 6:30-8:30pm)

Stoney Creek Church, 752 Stoney Creek Church Road, Goldsboro NC, invites all to come see, taste, touch, feel, smell, and experience Bethlehem! This is more than a live nativity. It is a walking journey that will take you back to the time when Jesus was born. Feed the animals, see camels, and warm yourself by a fire. There will be refreshments in the Inn (if there is any room) and visitors can see the manger and witness the newborn child, Jesus! Kids will participate in hands-on activities and gather goodies along the way. Register via www.stoneycreekchurch.net/#/creekidz.

Friday, December 2, 2016

First Friday Coffee (December 2, 2016 @ 7:30am)

The Nashville Chamber of Commerce invites local residents and public servants to join its members for a cup of coffee on the first Friday of each month. Be at the Nashville Exchange Steakhouse and Cafe, 229 W Washington Street, in Nashville NC, to grab free coffee and chat with others from Nashville NC and surrounding towns. This month’s coffee is sponsored by MGD Realty. Just walk in and join the group; registration is not necessary for First Friday Coffee. For more information, visit the Chamber website at nashvillencchamber.org.

Public Open House (December 2, 2016 @ 5-8pm)

The City of Rocky Mount and Ratio Design are hosting this open house at the Imperial Centre for the Arts and Sciences, 270 Gay Street, Rocky Mount NC.

Refreshments will be provided during the open house, and families are invited to participate before attending First Friday. Surveys are short, and mini-workshops will be brief and informal.

According to John Jesso, downtown development manager, the purpose of the open house is to gather public input, including surveys, about what residents would like to see in the downtown area. This information is essential as the city works with Ratio Design to implement a downtown strategy specifically for the downtown central business district, gateways and corridors.

“Earlier this year, the city of Rocky Mount engaged Ratio Design to assist us in developing a downtown strategy focused on the appropriate types of uses for the buildings downtown and creating distinct identities for specific areas of downtown to maximize redevelopment potential,” said Jesso.

According to their website, Ratio Design “is an international, multidisciplinary practice of thought leaders, planners and designers.” Based in Raleigh NC, the company will also assist the city in increasing the wayfinding signage guiding travelers downtown from other areas of the city, as well as from major highways such as US 64 and 301.

For more information, call 919.821.0805, or email Ratio Design.

MCOG Choir Christmas Dinner Theater/Concert (December 2, 2016 @ 6-9pm)

Hosted by the Middlesex Church of God, 5407 S NC-231, Middlesex NC. This special holiday event, “A Christmas Gift,” provides the dinner theater and concert for $15 per ticket. See the church’s Facebook events for more details.

“A Christmas Carol” (December 2, 3, 9 & 10, 2016 @ 7:30pm)

Source: NashArts, Nashville NC.
Source: NashArts, Nashville NC.

Come and see this production of the famous tale of Scrooge! Tickets are $13 general admission, $11 Seniors and children 12 and under. Held at the Nash Arts Center, 100 E Washington Street, Nashville NC. Ticket sales are online (small processing fee) at www.brownpapertickets.com/event/2588519.  Additional Sunday performances December 4 & 11 at 2:30pm.

Bass Plant Farm Christmas Open House (December 2, 2016 @ 6-8:30pm)

Bass Plant Farm and Garden Center, located at 6256 US Highway 64A, in Nashville NC, is holding a special day with Santa and a sleigh scene, hayrides, snacks, and live music.

Wendell Wonderland (December 2, 2016 @ 5:30-11pm)

This special holiday-season event is hosted by the Town of Wendell at J. Ashley Wall Town Square, in Wendell NC. Events through the evening include free downtown trolley rides, pictures with Santa, ice carving demonstrations, a Light Show display (Lake Myra), downtown business open house, Wendell United Methodist Church’s annual cookie walk, Wendell Baptist Church Music Concert (7pm), and live music. The Boy Scout Troop 515 will on site serving hot chocolate and popcorn.

See more about Wendell seasonal events at www.townofwendell.com/discover/events — including a special December 4 visit from Santa and all dates for the Lake Myra light show.

To see more about the Cookie Walk at Wendell United Methodist Church, visit the church online at www.facebook.com/wendellumc.

First Friday & Lighting of The Imperial Centre (December 2, 2016 @ 6-9pm)

Kick off the month with an evening full of activities, and free admission, at the Imperial Centre for the Arts and Sciences, 270 Gay Street, Rocky Mount NC. Admission is free with Christmas activities for the whole family. Enjoy carriage rides, live music, and food trucks. Show off your talent during No Shame Open Mic in the theater, and enjoy activities in the Children’s Museum, planetarium shows, and more. For more info., call 252.972.1266, or visit www.imperialcentre.org.

Sing for Joy! Children’s Chorus and Youth Strings Christmas Concert (December 2, 2016 @ 7:30pm)

The joy of Christmas comes alive with this award-winning Tar River Children’s Chorus and Youth Strings presentation. Come early for a seat for this popular annual concert, held at Fellowship Church, 1114 S First Street, in Nashville NC. Tickets are $15, online here.

Knightdale Christmas on First Avenue (December 2-3, 2016)

Knightdale Holiday events 2016. Source: Megan Thornton, KnightdaleNC.gov.
Knightdale Holiday events 2016. Source: Megan Thornton, KnightdaleNC.gov.

Knightdale’s Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony is December 2, 6-8pm at the Knightdale Station Park Amphitheater, 810 North First Avenue, Knightdale NC. The event includes activities, food trucks, music, Santa, Mrs. Claus, and performers 6-8pm. The Town tree is lit at the end of the event.

Then, on December 3, at 2pm, come and enjoy the Christmas Parade in downtown Knightdale, beginning at Knightdale Elementary and ending at Knightdale Station Park.

More details on performers and the parade are available on the town website.

A Downtown Christmas (December 2-4, 2016)

This year, Historic Downtown Wilson NC will celebrate “A Downtown Christmas”, a festive kick-off to the holiday season, from Friday, through Sunday. Schedule and details are on the holiday events page at www.historicdowntownwilson.com.

The Nutcracker Ballet (December 2, 3 & 4, 2016 @ varying times)

Enjoy this 35th annual ballet at the City of Goldsboro-Paramount Theatre, 139 S Center Street, Goldsboro NC. Created by Goldsboro Ballet’s Founding Artistic Director Peggy Wingate, further adapted by Assistant Director Mary Franklin, this production features 75+ dancers, gigantic sets, a snowfall every performance, and Tchaikovsky’s beloved score. Get dressed to the nines or come as you are. Tickets $13-$18. Tickets available here along with information on more holiday events at the Paramount.

Saturday, December 3, 2016

Bailey Christmas Parade (December 3, 2016 @ 2pm)

Head to downtown Bailey NC for the annual Christmas Parade. Enjoy watching a variety of groups go by and spend the afternoon with family and friends. The Town of Bailey NC is online at www.townofbaileync.org. For more information, call 252.235.6270.

‘Light up the Night’ Hometown Holiday Parade (December 3, 2016 @ 4:45-7pm)

This parade will be held in downtown Hillsborough NC, to celebrate the Holiday Season. Organized by the Hillsborough/Orange County Chamber of Commerce, more information on the parade and participation may be found here.

Children’s Christmas Parade (December 3, 2016 @ 4pm)

Sponsored by the Nashville Chamber of Commerce, this parade on W Washington Street, Nashville NC, provides for a fun afternoon for all ages. A bicycle parade for ages 12 and under begins at 4pm in front of the Nash County Courthouse. For more information, visit nashvillechambernc.org.

Sleigh Rides and Cider (December 3, 2016 @ 5-7:30pm)

Kick off your holiday season with horse-drawn carriage rides, hot apple cider, live music, handmade crafts, holiday activities, and, of course, Ol’ Saint Nick! Held at Historic Oak View County Park, 4028 Carya Drive, in Raleigh NC.

Historic Downtown Wilson Christmas Parade (December 3, 2016 @11am-1pm)

This year, the parade organizers have arranged to “Let It Snow.” The parade will feature the frozen, fluffy, white flakes woven into the float themes and performances by dance troupes, bands, and groups. Floats will be judged based on their incorporation of the parade theme, overall appearance, originality and creativity, and float design and workmanship. Get to Historic Downtown Wilson NC and find a spot to watch the parade!

More weekend events in Wilson may be found here.

Children's Parade is in downtown Nashville NC on December 3, 21016.
Children’s Parade is in downtown Nashville NC on December 3, 21016.

Opening Ceremony / Festival of Lights (December 3, 2016 @ 6-8pm)

Join this annual Opening Ceremony by the Nash County Circuiteers 4H Electric Club for an evening full of family, friends, and lights at the Nash County Agricultural Center, 1006 Eastern Avenue, Nashville NC. The Christmas light show will be on a continuous display throughout the month of December. The show will feature popular holiday and Christmas songs synced to Christmas lights. Open free to the public and kid friendly.

Chere: Therapy Dog Reading Program (December 3, 2016 @ 1-2pm)

This Children’s Program gives children a chance to interact with a therapy dog while working on their reading skills. Held in the Youth Services are of Braswell Memorial Library, 727 N Grace Street, Rocky Mount NC.

ABC Craft and Learn (December 3, 2016 @ 10:30-11:30am)

Children ages 3-5 and their caregivers are invited to participate in an interactive program with an alphabet craft to nurture pre-reading skills through writing and play and to give opportunity to develop fine motor skills children require to start school. No registration required. Held at the Zebulon Community Library, 1000 Dogwood Drive, Zebulon NC.

Cookie Houses with Santa (December 3, 2016 @ 1-2:30pm)

All ages are welcome to join the fun and make a Holiday Cookie House! Visiting with Santa is also planned. Held at the Wendell Community Library, 207 S Hollybrook Road, Wendell NC.

Drink and Draw (December 3, 2016 @ 6-10pm)

Head to Koi Pond Brewing Company, 1107 Falls Road, Rocky Mount NC, to enjoy craft beer (adults) and do a little drawing. Sketch your creation, and they plan to collect all pictures afterwards and hang them up at Arkham Comix (3010 Sunset Ave, Rocky Mount) for all to see. All skill levels welcomed. Come to draw, watch the artists draw, or both.

Lighting of Nash County Christmas Tree (December 3, 2016)

Sing Christmas Carols, light the town’s tree, and greet Santa afterwards at the Nash County Office Building in downtown Nashville NC. For more information call 252.459.4050.

Pop-Up Holiday Vendor Market / Tree Lighting (December 3, 2016 @ 10am-4:30pm)

Shop local for your holiday gifts at this festive, one-day outdoor market! The market will be set up at the corner of Arendell Avenue and Sycamore Street, in Zebulon NC. Bring a camera and have your picture taken with Santa 5-6pm, and join Carolers as they make their way to the Zebulon Christmas Tree Lighting around 6pm. For more information, contact the Zebulon Chamber of Commerce via email or at 919.269.6320.

Enfield Colonial Christmas (December 3, 2016 @ 11am-5pm)

Join the fun of today and yesteryear at this downtown Enfield NC annual celebration. Enjoy the Christmas House Tour, a presentation on history, a Live Nativity scene, mule and buggy rides, and more. Vendors and local shops will be offering a variety of crafts, pottery, jewelry, and additional handmade and homemade items. Tour Aunt Ruby’s Peanuts, or enjoy quilting, chair caning, beehives with honey, and a wreath-making demonstration. This annual Colonial-themed eventday is organized by Downtown Enfield Restoration and Preservation (DERP), online at www.derpserves.org, and available by calling 252.443.5786.

Holiday Fun Fest (December 3, 2016 @ 12-4pm)

Head to the Durham County Stadium Practice Field, 750 Stadium Drive, in Durham NC, for snow sledding, Santa Claus, a family-fun zone, a campfire with s’mores, and tasty foods. See details on the town website at durhamnc.gov/1620/Holiday-Fun-Fest.

Knightdale Christmas on First Avenue Continued (December 2-3, 2016)

On December 3, at 2pm, come and enjoy the Christmas Parade in downtown Knightdale, beginning at Knightdale Elementary and ending at Knightdale Station Park. More details on performers and the parade are available on the town website.

A Downtown Christmas Continued (December 2-4, 2016)

This year, Historic Downtown Wilson NC will celebrate “A Downtown Christmas”, a festive kick-off to the holiday season, from Friday, through Sunday. Schedule and details are on the holiday events page at www.historicdowntownwilson.com.

The Nutcracker Ballet Continued (December 2, 3 & 4, 2016 @ varying times)

Enjoy this 35th annual ballet at the City of Goldsboro-Paramount Theatre, 139 S Center Street, Goldsboro NC. Created by Goldsboro Ballet’s Founding Artistic Director Peggy Wingate, further adapted by Assistant Director Mary Franklin, this production features 75+ dancers, gigantic sets, a snowfall every performance, and Tchaikovsky’s beloved score. Get dressed to the nines or come as you are. Tickets $13-$18. Tickets available here along with information on more holiday events at the Paramount.

Sunday, December 4, 2016

Rocky Mount Christmas Parade (December 4, 2016 @ 3-5pm)

Join the fun in Downtown Rocky Mount NC. Get into the Christmas spirit with this annual Christmas Parade, featuring live music by local marching bands, floats, classic cars, and Santa Claus. The grand marshal will be Anna Laurel of ABC 11. To see this and other Rocky Mount holiday events, including senior offerings, visit this web page.

Zebulon Christmas Parade (December 4, 2016 @ 2-3pm)

The annual Zebulon Christmas Parade offers a variety of vehicles, performers, and groups marching through downtown. Find a spot to watch along N Arendell Avenue, in Zebulon NC to enjoy this holiday event. Watch for updates on the Zebulon Chamber of Commerce Facebook page.

Mark Twain Speaks! (December 4, 2016 @ 2-3pm)

Experience America’s favorite humorist, Mark Twain, as brought to life by impersonator Don McNeill. Come for this special event at East Regional Library, 946 Steeple Square Court, Knightdale NC.

Rudolph Holiday Rodeo (December 4, 2016 @ 12-4pm)

This second-annual Rudolph’s Holiday Rodeo food truck festival is held at Knightdale Station Park, 810 N First Avenue, Knightdale NC. This event is designed to promote and support Meals on Wheels of Wake County. Santa will make a visit, craft vendors (and a gift wrapping station), and there will be inflatables for kids. For more information, visit www.rdumfa.org/events.

Franklin County Christmas Parade (December 4, 2016 @ 3-6pm)

The parade is December 4, 2016, at 3pm. Sponsored by the Greater Franklin County Chamber of Commerce, the parade begins at the intersection of North Main Street and Smoketree Way, then moves south on Main Street past Louisburg College, then right onto W Nash Street, Louisburg NC.

Santa’s Village (December 4, 2016 @ 9am-3pm)

Hosted by Northgreen Golf Club, 900 Northgreen Lane, Rocky Mount NC. Enjoy Christmas shopping with local direct sales and crafters, plus pictures with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Kids can enjoy the coloring corner while you shop.

A Downtown Christmas Continued (December 2-4, 2016)

This year, Historic Downtown Wilson NC will celebrate “A Downtown Christmas”, a festive kick-off to the holiday season, from Friday, through Sunday. Schedule and details are on the holiday events page at www.historicdowntownwilson.com.

The Nutcracker Ballet Continued (December 2, 3 & 4, 2016 @ varying times)

Enjoy this 35th annual ballet at the City of Goldsboro-Paramount Theatre, 139 S Center Street, Goldsboro NC. Created by Goldsboro Ballet’s Founding Artistic Director Peggy Wingate, further adapted by Assistant Director Mary Franklin, this production features 75+ dancers, gigantic sets, a snowfall every performance, and Tchaikovsky’s beloved score. Get dressed to the nines or come as you are. Tickets $13-$18. Tickets available here along with information on more holiday events at the Paramount.

Coming Soon

Grand Opening of CreativeMindz Book Lounge (December 6, 2016 @ 12-6pm)

The Grand Opening celebration is at the CreativeMindz Farmville, 3870B S Main Street, Farmville NC. This location’s hours are 12-6pm on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays.

Movie Screening (December 6, 2016 @ 7pm)

Earthcaster, a new documentary that profiles Raleigh-based artist Thomas Sayre and his natural, massive earthen sculptures, will be screened at the Cameo Art House Theatre, located at 225 Hay Street, in Fayetteville NC. For tickets to the Earthcaster screening, held by MoonShadow Film Society, visit squareup.com/store/moonshadow. (Article)

Holiday Historic Christmas Cheer Celebration (December 8, 2016 @ 4:30-6:30pm)

The Franklin County Arts Council will be joining the Franklin County Schools in front of the courthouse in Louisburg NC for this annual Holiday Historic Christmas Cheer Celebration. Students will have snacks, decorate the Christmas tree with quilt block and NC Symbols ornaments, and participate in a carol sing-along.

Christmas in Spring Hope (December 9, 2016 @ 5:30-8pm)

This holiday event is organized by the Spring Hope Chamber of Commerce, located at 118 W Railroad Street, Spring Hope NC. Come downtown for free carriage rides, music, beautiful trees decorated by area churches, over 100 nativities on display, and a visit by that jolly old elf from the North Pole! Updates and event discussion are online here. The Spring Hope Chamber of Commerce is online at www.facebook.com/SpringHopeChamberOfCommerce. The Town of Spring Hope is online at www.springhope.net.

19th Century Christmas Open House (December 9, 2016 @ 5-7pm)

All are invited to The Historic Person Place, 605 North Main Street, Louisburg NC, for this holiday event hosted by Louisburg Historic District Neighborhood Association and Person Place Preservation Society. The Victorian Carolers will be there 5-6pm, and enjoy the 19th Century Parlor Tableau 6-7pm.

Christmas ~N~ Middlesex Social and Parade (December 10, 2016 @ 11am-4pm)

The parade route starts at Mortex, turns at W Hanes Street, and ends at Middlesex Elementary in Middlesex NC. The fire department will be selling hot dogs (fundraiser) before the parade and hosting Santa after the parade. See the event updates here. The Town of Middlesex NC is online at www.townofmiddlesexnc.com.

Chapel Hill-Carrboro Holiday Parade (December 10, 2016 @ 10am)

The 2016 Chapel Hill-Carrboro NC parade includes participants from all around the area. More information is available at www.chapelhillholidayparade.com, including vendor registration.

Afternoon Tea (December 10, 2016 @ 3-5pm)

The Franklin County Arts Council (FCAC) is hosting their monthly Afternoon Tea, which is free, family-friendly, and open to the public. This month’s guest is Photographer Tammy Winkel. Tammy Winkel’s photography show will premier during this afternoon tea. Tammy will give a short talk and answer questions on her work as a photographer specializing in pet and animal portraits. The event will be held in the Franklin County Arts Council gallery, located at 22 S Main Street, Franklinton NC. For more information, visit the arts council’s website at fcacarts.org.

Greenville Christmas Parade (December 10, 2016 @ 5-6:30pm)

This annual parade gives thousands of citizens their first celebration of the Christmas holidays. The parade route runs through uptown Greenville NC.

Winterville Christmas Parade (December 10, 2016 @ 2-3:30pm)

Come and enjoy this parade and bring the kids to see Santa as the parade makes its way through downtown Winterville NC. See more about the Winterville Christmas Parade here.

Farmville Christmas Parade (December 10, 2016 @ 10:30-11:30am)

Bring family and friends to enjoy this annual parade down Main Street, Farmville NC.

Bethel Christmas Parade (December 10, 2016 @ 11am-12:30pm)

Come and enjoy the Bethel NC annual Christmas Parade down Main Street. See more at www.hometownbethel.com/bethel_christmas_parade.

“The Night That Christ Was Born” Christmas Concert (December 10, 2016 @ 6pm)

This will be a Voices With Purpose Christmas concert at Bethel AME, 7340 Pleasant Grove Church Road, in Spring Hope NC. All are asked to bring a toy so we may be able to give to back to Toys For Tots.

Breakfast with Mary and Joseph (December 10, 2016 @ 9:30-11am)

Enjoy this free event at Wendell Baptist Church, 3651 Wendell Blvd, Wendell NC. Come for breakfast and a visit from Mary and Joseph. There will also be “Advent” crafts and story time as part of this special morning.

Author Visit (December 10, 2016 @ 2-4pm)

Author and visiting Assistant Professor of English at North Carolina Wesleyan College, Michael K. Brantley, presents his book Memory Cards in the Computer Lab at in this adult program at Braswell Memorial Library, 727 N Grace Street, Rocky Mount NC. For more information, contact Kesha Joyner at 252.442.1951 x.253.

Benefit Gospel Concert for Princeville NC (December 10, 2016 @ 5pm)

Concert poster
Poster (click to view full size)

The Wake Up Benefit Gospel Concert for Princeville NC (Edgecombe County), is being held at New Bethel Christian Church, 4307 Poole Road, Raleigh NC. The concert includes a variety of performers. Supplies for residents displaced by flooding may be donated during this concert.

Winter Wonderland / A Charlie Brown Christmas (December 11, 2016 @ 2-3:30pm)

Daytime events and a special performance are being held at the Imperial Centre for the Arts and Sciences, 270 Gay Street, Rocky Mount NC. Admission is free, though activities have a nominal fee. Winter Wonderland is 1-5pm, offering a day of fun for the whole family including music, children’s activities, carriage rides through downtown, and a visit from Santa. There will even be snow in the main lobby every hour. Then, watch the production, “A Charlie Brown Christmas” scheduled for 2-3:30pm. Tickets are required. (Additional dates are available for this production.) Call 252.972.1266 or visit imperialcentre.org/events/winter-wonderland to find out more.

Christmas with the Embers (December 15, 2016 @ 7:30-10pm)

The Embers featuring Craig Woolard bring their Christmas back for this special holiday concert. Organized by the Arts Council of Wilson, the performance is at the Edna Boykin Cultural Center, 108 Nash Street NE, Wilson NC. Tickets are available at www.wilsonarts.com for $20 to $25, by stopping by the Arts Council of Wilson, or calling 252.291.4329.

Clayton Piano Festival “Holiday Gala Concert” (December 15, 2016 @ 7pm)

Enjoy this first-ever Holiday Gala Concert at The Historic Wagner House, 121 E. Main Street, Clayton NC. General admission tickets are $15 for adults and $5 for 18 and under. There is a small service fee when purchasing online tickets. Tickets are on sale at www.claytonpianofestival.org.

Discover Space — “Space Exploration” (December 15, 2016 @ 5-7pm)

Russell J. DeYoung, PhD Senior Scientist at NASA Langley Research Center, discusses space exploration in the Warner Room at in this adult program at Braswell Memorial Library, 727 N Grace Street, Rocky Mount NC. For more information, contact Kesha Joyner at 252.442.1951 x.253.

Old Fashioned Christmas (December 15-17, 2016)

Get ready for three days of shopping and getting into the holiday spirit with the second annual Old Fashioned Christmas event in Taylorsville NC (Alexander County). Old Fashioned Christmas offers ice skating, Santa, holiday shopping and much more. (Article)

Holiday Train Expo (December 16-18, 2016)

Head to Independence Mall, 3500 Oleander Drive, in Wilmington NC, for the Cape Fear Model Railroad Society’s annual Holiday Train Expo. The expo features trains of all types in a variety of villages, parks, and landscapes, plus photo ops with the conductor of the Polar Express, and a chance to watch models being built. Admission is $4-$5, with kids under 3 free. Hours are 6-9pm Friday, and 1-5pm Saturday and Sunday. Details and updates may be found on this Facebook page or call 910.231.8567 with questions.

Christmas at Home Show (December 17, 2016 @ 10am-2pm)

Franklin County Arts Council will hold its Fourth Annual Christmas at Home Art Show and Sale. Shop for gifts for sale by local artists and join the group for free refreshments. This year’s location is the historic home of Elic Senter and Ed Cottle on 12 Vine Street, Franklinton NC. Participating artists include Margaret Hilpert, Everett Mayo, Pamela Andrejev, Louise Asaraf, Rose Cushing, John Pelosi, and Marti King.

This has become a popular event, offering shoppers an opportunity to purchase unique Christmas gifts. The festive event is free to the public, including holiday refreshments. Several items donated by the artists will be raffled throughout the day.

There are a limited number of spaces still available for artists; email for information if interested in being a part of this event.

Visit the Franklin County Arts Council website here.

It’s a Wonderful Life Movie Screening (December 20, 2016 @ 7pm & 10pm)

Bring the family to this special showing as part of the “Paramount Movie Nights” series. This holiday favorite is enjoyable for all ages, whether it is the 100th time or the first time seeing it on the big screen! General Admission tickets are $5 per person, with children 12-and-under free with an adult. Visit this page to purchase tickets. The location is the City of Goldsboro-Paramount Theatre, 139 S Center Street, Goldsboro NC. Call the theatre at 919.583.8432.

Photography Contest, Exhibit, and Celebration (December 3-28, 2016)

See details on these two images regarding this photo contest at Braswell Memorial Library, Rocky Mount NC. Entry deadline is December 3, 2016.

Source: Braswell Memorial Library.
Source: Braswell Memorial Library.

 

Photo Contest Celebration flyer. Source: Braswell Memorial Library, Rocky Mount NC.
Photo Contest Celebration flyer. Source: Braswell Memorial Library, Rocky Mount NC.

 

Coming Next Year (2017)

2017 Economic Forum & Forecast Breakfast (January 11, 2017 @ 7:30-9:30am)

This special business-oriented meeting is being held at the Knightdale Town Hall, located at 950 Steeple Square Court, Knightdale NC. The agenda includes a panel of local leaders from education, government, and industry to address questions and leading initiatives critical to our state and local communities. Join us as leaders collaborate and explain why now more than ever it is imperative to understand the 2017 economic outlook and trends for businesses and our community-at-large. See here for event details or to register. Registration is $25 for chamber members and $30 for the general public. (Article)

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About Kay Whatley 2309 Articles
Kay Whatley serves as Editor and Reporter with The Grey Area News. Kay is a published author with over 20 years of experience in the publishing industry. Kay Whatley is wife to Frank Whatley, founder of The Grey Area™ newspaper and The Grey Area News online news website.