The year ahead in North Carolina

Home to the inspiring views and outdoor pursuit possibilities of the Blue Ridge Mountains, culinary delights of the Barbeque Trail and ever-expanding nightlife scene of Charlotte, North Carolina is already a traveller's paradise.

When added to the sporting highlights offered by the NFL's Carolina Panthers, NBA's Charlotte Bobcats, and NHL's Carolina Hurricanes – not to mention the world famous NASCAR series – the state has plenty to offer visitors all year round.

But the Old North State also hosts a diverse selection of cultural, sporting and culinary events throughout the year. Here travelbite.co.uk takes a look at some of the marquee events taking place across the state during 2009.

March

The world famous Harlem Globetrotters are coming to Charlotte on March 21st 2009.

Holidaymakers and locals a like will have the chance to watch amazing basketball skills performed by top stars and have to interact with their favourite globetrotter, as there is an autograph session at the end of nearly every game.

Head over to Charlotte Bobcats Arena for more information and ticket details.

April

For something with more a cultural edge, the Full Frame Film Festival
The spectacular four day film festival will see guests enjoy over 100 films and good old southern hospitality, held in Durham, North Carolina.

Taking place at the same time, the Bethabara Park, Winston, Kite Day will let visitors harness their inner child in a fun afternoon in where kites rule the skies.

May

Moving in May and the Coca Cola 600 race takes place on the 24th takes the form of a 600 mile stock car event held at the fabulous Lowe’s Motor Speedway in North Carolina. Petrol heads are warned to get ready for thrills and spills as drivers motor round 400 laps in the longest NASCAR Nextel Cup Series race.

Still on a sporting theme, the Mountain Sports Festival follows on May 29th-31st.

Every year, Asheville which is nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, hosts three days of sporting events and demonstrations for all, whether pro or amateur. From paddling to disc golf and ultimate Frisbee to skateboarding, the only question is whether sportsmen and women tough enough to rise to the challenge.

June

North Carolina moves into summer with the day long 'kick-off' that is the 29th Annual Surf-Sun-Sand, Volleyball and Bocce Ball Tournaments.

The summer is the perfect way to enjoy the sun, the sand and the surf on North Carolina’s Wrightsville Beach – where visitors have the chance to grab their surf board or relax on the beach to watch the competitors tear up the beach!

Late in the month the Blueberry Festival celebrates the historical, economic and cultural significance of blueberries in the southeastern region of the State. Taking place on June 21st, the event is celebrated in Pender County, which ranks second in blueberry production in North Carolina.

July

An experience like no other, the opening weekend in July (2nd-4th) is a fabulous time to spend it in the Cherokee Indian Fair. Enjoy fireworks to celebrate Independence Day and enjoy authentic Indian dancing, drumming, tribal regalia and dance competitions.

Slightly later in the month, guests are invited to try something a little different at the Linville, North Carolina and enjoy the Grandfather Highland Games. Taking place over the 9th-12th of the month, participates take party in traditional dancing, as well as enjoying music, sport and Gaelic culture.

This truly is a unique yet enjoyable event.

September

September 2009 on North Carolina marks the date for the 12th Annual Pumpkin Festival to be held in Historic Downtown Elkin. The festival brings more than 15,000 visitors to downtown Elkin to enjoy live entertainment, shopping, great food and gigantic pumpkins galore.

October

Between October 15th and 25th guests are invited to enjoy the sights and the sounds of North Carolina state fair. This annual fair is located in Raleigh, North Carolina and witnesses some top entertainment – including a real-life demolition derby.

Late in the month the state celebrates one of its most famous traditions. Lexington, is the barbecue capital of the world and each year the locals invite everyone to come and visit them in Uptown Lexington, where they provide 100,000 people with the finest exhibits and the most exciting entertainment.

Lexington’s 26th Annual Barbecue Festival takes place on October 24th, with more information here.

December

As the year draws to a close Southport Oak Island will celebrate the Christmas by the Sea Festival between December 4th-19th.

The Festival includes a lighted boat Flotilla, band concert, choral concert, hometown parade, tree lighting ceremonies, tour of beach homes on Oak Island and a tour of historic homes in Southport.

Finally, the Lighting of the World's Largest Living Christmas Tree takes place in Wilmington with everybody invited to watch the tree come alive with the spirit of the season.

More Information

For more details on exploring the Tar Heel state head over to the official North Carolina tourist website or get a free 2009 Travel Guide here.

Chris O'Toole

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