Events in Gaston County, NC

A welcoming coffee meet-up bringing together downtown Gastonia business leaders, residents, stakeholders, and dedicated public servants for lively conversation over a cup of coffee. Held at Ride-A-Bike Bicycle Shop, the gathering offers a relaxed setting to connect and share perspectives.

Family storytime features fun stories and early literacy activities for children ages 1 to 6 and their caregivers.

Enjoy a Gilmore Girls-inspired cake decorating experience with cozy, nostalgic touches. The hands-on session includes decorating a 6-inch cake, a Luke’s-inspired coffee cocktail curated by Muddy River, a book exchange where you can bring a book and take another, and a playlist inspired by the show. The experience may take place on the distillery patio, weather permitting, or indoors if conditions are unfavorable.

An elegant black and white masquerade celebrates the Gaston County Museum of Art & History and its 50 years of inspiring curiosity and connection. Expect live performances, cocktails, food, and immersive experiences, all in support of the museum. The evening pairs celebration with purpose, helping lay the groundwork for the museum's next half century. Attendees are encouraged to wear black and white. Tickets are released to museum members first, followed by non-members.

The official pre-party for Stoned Riff Revival 2026 ignites a night of doom, sludge, stoner, and heavy metal at The Rooster. The lineup pairs Ninja Witch from Tennessee with North Carolina acts SixYearHex, Evil Eye, and Beyond The Portal for a thunderous kickoff to the festivities. Presented by EvilTheWes Music and sponsored by Black Doomba Records, the evening promises towering riffs, dense grooves, and the camaraderie of the underground heavy scene. All ages are welcome. Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 on the day of the show.

Enjoy live music with Lisa De Novo at Piedmont Delicatessen, a speakeasy in downtown Gastonia.

Sing your heart out at Tommy Tonka Karaoke, with a chance to take the mic and enjoy a lively karaoke night. South Point Social features drink specials, bartenders, and patrons, with the music keeping the night going.

Unplug, slow down, and reconnect with yourself and the natural world through forest bathing, also known as the Japanese practice of Shinrin-yoku. Guided by Angie, this meditative wander invites you to explore nature with all five senses. It is not a hike or a naturalist walk. Spending mindful time in nature may support wellness and stress management, with potential benefits including reduced blood pressure and stress, improved mood and sleep, and greater creativity and capacity for empathy. Wear comfortable clothes and sturdy shoes for uneven dirt or gravel trails and sitting on natural surfaces. Depending on the weather, you may want a hat, sunglasses, layers, rain gear, sunscreen, or bug spray. Bring water and snacks if needed, along with a small backpack. Sit pads are available, or you can bring a yoga mat, towel, or blanket.

Celebrate local voices with free storytimes, crafts, live readings, and performances. Meet nearly 50 authors, poets, and makers, and browse books, art, and handcrafted goods at the local library.

This event features a relaxed conversation about books and time set aside for socializing.

Take a night off from cooking at Hungry Howies during an Eat-Out Night that benefits Sherwood Elementary. A portion of each purchase helps fund students and school programs. Enjoy a meal and make a difference for the school community.

This drop-in open house will gather community input to help guide downtown Belmont planning before design concepts are developed. Participants can share values, tradeoffs, locations, and priorities for the city.

Take a break with a night of comedy and music from Tim Hawkins, celebrated for tongue-in-cheek hits like Things You Don’t Say to Your Wife, Cletus Take the Reel, and Pink Pretty Tractor. He delivers a unique mix of songs and laughs, and even his mom calls him the funniest person she knows. The show suits date nights, small groups, or even the whole neighborhood, and is the kind of evening people keep quoting and laughing about afterward. A limited number of VIP passes offer early entry, a meet and greet, and a photo with Tim. To ensure valid tickets at face value, purchase only through the show’s official ticketing partner, and be aware that resale posts will be removed and can lead to a ban.

Enjoy a stand-up comedy show at Primal Brewery Belmont, featuring a new line-up of comedians each time. The performers include acts seen on television and heard on podcasts.

Safely clear out unwanted household chemicals and similar products at this collection event for Gaston County residents. Accepted materials include items such as oil-based paint, solvents, insect and weed control products, lawn care chemicals, aerosol cans, fluorescent bulbs, used motor oil and oil filters, household cleaners, and batteries. Proper handling keeps these substances out of lakes, streams, and soil, helping protect the environment and public health. Latex or water-based paint can be managed at home by mixing it with kitty litter or sand, allowing it to dry completely, then placing the dry can in regular household trash. Electronic equipment is not collected at this event and should be taken to the Convenience sites. To reach the drop-off area, travel on Highway 279 West, turn left at the Citizens Resource Center into Dallas Park, and follow the signs to the Household Hazardous Waste Center.

Spend time in nature with professional photographer Nelson Stegall on a photography walk for beginners and experienced photographers alike. Inspired in part by forest bathing and the Slow Photography Movement, the two-hour walks encourage slowing down, appreciating nature, and creating thoughtful images with a focus on quality and fresh perspectives. Bring weather-appropriate clothing and shoes, beverages, and a camera. Cell phones are welcome, and you may also bring camera gear, a tripod if desired, and a bag or backpack for carrying your supplies.

Celebrate Grinchmas with an all-ages Grinch-themed program filled with creative crafts, lively games, and interactive activities designed to entertain everyone, even the grumpiest Grinch.

Experience a guided mindfulness meditation designed to support mental clarity and ease stress. Afterward, relax into a soothing sound bath as crystal singing bowls, chimes, drums, and other instruments create gentle, restorative tones for a deeply calming atmosphere.

Parents' Night Out at the Warlick Family YMCA offers an evening where kids enjoy games, make new friends, and take part in a variety of fun activities, with dinner provided. This recurring program takes place on the second Saturday of each month. It is open to children ages 6 months to 12 years. Pricing is $25 for YMCA members and $44 for program participants.

Enjoy a free outdoor screening of Homeward Bound at Stowe Park. The movie night features a big-screen experience, immersive sound, retro arcade games, and movie concessions. Guests can bring their own chairs.

Enjoy a relaxed, hands-on crafting session with materials provided and guidance from instructors. Create a sparkling tabletop Christmas tree using sequins, pins, and foam forms. The detailed project encourages patience and creativity and results in a festive holiday decoration. Coffee, lattes, and tea are available from the coffee shop, and no prior experience is needed.

Take on villains in a game of Marvel Champions.

Veterans of all ages and military branches are welcome to connect over complimentary coffee and refreshments, with messages from special guests.

Hosted by the Gaston Business Association, this monthly, self-paid lunch brings professionals together at a featured GBA investor restaurant for conversation and connections. Participants can build relationships through thoughtful discussion, exchange business cards, and support a local business. This edition will be held at The Esquire Hotel.

Adults age 50 and older can take part in an annual Thanksgiving lunch at First Baptist Church. The gathering includes a holiday meal with music, fellowship, and fun. Admission is $5 for Lowell residents and $8 for non-residents. RSVP is required.

Truth or Dare Comedy brings an interactive twist to stand-up at Durty Bull Brewing Company Gastonia. Comedians from Charlotte mix candid truths with daring challenges, blending prepared sets with spur-of-the-moment improv. The audience is part of the action with chances to suggest dares, jump into games, and win prizes. Imagine the playful vibe of a grown-up sleepover paired with craft beer and a lively, welcoming atmosphere. Expect big laughs, surprising moments, and crowd energy that keeps the fun going throughout the show.

The first annual Pickin’ For a Purpose Bluegrass Competition, hosted by the Gaston County Shrine Club, brings a full day of live bluegrass, friendly competition, and community spirit in support of a meaningful cause. Musicians can compete in both band and soloist divisions, with top three placements recognized in each. Additional individual awards will honor first through third place in lead vocals, harmony vocals, guitar, banjo, fiddle, bass, dobro, and mandolin. A People’s Choice Award will also be decided by audience vote. Competitor entry is set at $150 per band for the band division and $50 per soloist for the soloist division. Optional individual-category entries are $10 per person for each category and require separate registration, as these are not included with band or solo entries. Spectator admission is designed to be accessible, with free entry for children 10 and under, general admission at $15, and a $20 supporter bundle that includes admission plus two People’s Choice votes. Additional votes may be purchased for $5 each. Performances must center on bluegrass or traditional acoustic styles. Backing tracks and pre-recorded music are not permitted. Amplified instruments are not allowed, with the exception of an electric bass pickup. Bands have 20 minutes including setup and breakdown, while soloists have 10 minutes. Judging focuses on musicianship, timing, stage presence, and overall performance. Only those registered for individual categories will be considered for those awards, and judge decisions are final. Expect live music throughout the day, food available on-site, a family-friendly atmosphere, and plenty of audience participation during People’s Choice voting. Registration spots are limited and handled directly through the organizers. Proceeds support the mission of the Gaston County Shrine Club. This event is a fraternal fundraiser and donations are not tax deductible.

Enjoy a free outdoor screening of The Muppet Christmas Carol at Stowe Park. The movie night features a big-screen experience and immersive sound, along with retro arcade games and movie concessions. Bring your own chair.

A cherished Black Friday Tail of the Dragon tradition continues with a refreshed route. The route covers much of Moonshiner's 28, then detours onto Bootlegger's Bypass and concludes that leg with lunch at the historic Tapoco Lodge. After lunch, groups set off to experience Tail of the Dragon at their own pace. Once everyone has spent ample time on TOTD, participants can head home for the holiday weekend... or, for those who want a bit more, there may be something extra after the main outing.

Shop small businesses and support local businesses this season. Santa Ike will be there for photos, which visitors can take themselves. Applications for this event are closed.

Mandy and Ed will perform at the Trailhead Store, closing out the Pickin’ on the Porch music series. Admission is not required to visit the Store, where fresh snacks, coffee drinks, beer, and wine are available. Their songs will get you ready for the Christmas season.

Enjoy live music from Charlotte-based singer-songwriter Lisa De Novo at Piedmont Delicatessen.

Adult Night Sip N Skate returns with DJ Vitamin E of Rogue Planet. Enjoy an evening of skating set to a DJ soundtrack.

Car enthusiasts can bring vehicles of all makes and models to show off and chat with fellow enthusiasts. This family-friendly gathering requires no pre-registration. Participants who bring a vehicle can receive a buy-one-get-one-free voucher for same-day entry to The Gardens, and members can receive a 30-day membership extension. Check in upon arrival to receive the voucher or extension. Participants can also tell The Trailhead Store they took part to receive a discount on a drink.

Christmas in the City takes place in downtown Gastonia and at the Rotary Pavilion, featuring free entertainment at the pavilion, the Gaston County Jaycees parade traveling east along Main Ave, and a Keep Gastonia Beautiful tree lighting at the pavilion after the parade. Sponsored by CaroMont Health. Parade registration is available.

A Christmas concert from VKC brings the sounds of the season to life in a warm, festive atmosphere.

Carrie Ann performs live at Local Logic in Mt Holly, NC.

Take time to unwind with a calming guided meditation and aromatherapy session focused on relaxation and restoring mind and body. No previous experience is needed.

This casual coffee meetup brings together Dallas, NC business leaders, residents, stakeholders, and public servants for lively conversations over coffee. It begins with informal social time, then transitions into a meeting for open discussion.

Get creative with a hands-on door mat painting session. Use stencils and durable outdoor paint to create a personalized, practical accent for your home, choosing from patterns, phrases, or other designs. Materials are provided, and no prior experience is needed. Coffee, lattes, and tea are available from the coffee shop to enjoy while you craft and connect with fellow participants.