Events in Hickory, NC

The Fayetteville Woodpeckers visit the Hickory Crawdads at L. P. Frans Stadium. This Minor League Baseball matchup showcases up-and-coming talent in a smaller ballpark, making it easy to follow the strategy on every pitch and feel close to the action. It offers a late summer baseball atmosphere in Hickory.

This 3-hour seminar focuses on practical steps to prepare for and respond to an active attacker. Participants learn about current data and trends surrounding active shooter events, how to build situational awareness and assess threats, strategies to strengthen readiness, and ways to develop a survival mindset that supports clear decisions under pressure. The training also covers what to expect when law enforcement arrives and provides guidance for creating an action plan to improve the chances of survival. The material applies to workplaces, schools, churches, and other public spaces, and is led by instructors with real-world experience.

Blue Collar Cycle Company - Hickory hosts DYING TO LIVE (DtL), a Charlotte heavy rock band committed to powerful, high-energy performances that hit hard and leave a lasting impression.

4x4 Outdoors presents a monthly Saturday night cruise-in in Hickory. Vehicle owners and enthusiasts are welcome to showcase their rides and enjoy a relaxed cruise along Highway 70 with friends. Food trucks will be available for a limited portion of the evening. For safety and respect for the venue, activities like donuts, excessive revving, and burnouts are not allowed.

After a year of transformation, Hickory Museum of Art returns with a preview that brings fashion and art together. The museum has partnered with fashion designer Charles Harbison to dress the spaces for an opening exhibition. The program begins in the Drendel Auditorium, where Executive Director Clarissa Starnes and Charles Harbison will share the creative journey behind their collaboration. After the conversation, follow a curated path through the renovated galleries for an early look at the updates. Experience luxury fashion in conversation with works from the museum’s permanent collection, including new designs inspired by favorite artworks. Tickets are $25, or $15 for members. Due to exhibition restrictions, no food or drink will be available.

Kickstart healthy habits with a structured six week weight management program designed to build confidence and momentum. Before getting started, participants enroll in a Fitness Plus membership and complete baseline assessments. The first week features three sessions on Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday that introduce nutrition fundamentals, a beginner workout plan, and safe use of fitness equipment. Weeks two through six are flexible and self guided. Participants work toward 150 minutes of exercise each week, keep a food record, and set behavior goals to review weekly. The program takes place at Fitness Plus at Catawba Valley Medical Center. The fee is $25 for members. Nonmembers can register for $90, which includes a six week membership. To take part, submit the interest form and complete registration before the first Monday of the month.

Patrick Beaver Learning Resource Center offers free reading tutor training for community members who want to help children build confidence in reading. This in-person program spans three full days and teaches research-backed strategies for supporting struggling readers. After completing the training, each tutor is matched with one student to provide 60 free one-on-one lessons over the school year, fostering skill growth, confidence, and a love of reading. No prior teaching experience is needed, only a willingness to learn and a commitment to helping a child succeed. For details, call 828-624-2012 or email info@patrickbeaverlrc.org.

Executive Director Clarissa Starnes hosts a relaxed coffee and conversation gathering, sharing current news from the museum as it settles into its newly transformed home. Attendees can hear what is ahead for exhibitions, programs, and events, with time for questions and a chance to connect with fellow members and friends of HMA. It welcomes those catching up after the grand reopening as well as first-time attendees.

The September social club meets at the new Bricks and Minifigs Hickory, sponsored by Blacks Tire and Auto. Families are welcome to bring the kids to spark creativity with Lego while building genuine connections in the Hickory area. Non-alcoholic beverages and food will be available.

Shady Ln delivers a live set at Iron Thunder Saloon & Grill - Hickory during the venue’s bike night. The evening features live music from Shady Ln alongside the bike night atmosphere.

Written by Irene Sankoff and David Hein, Come From Away is presented in the McCreary Theatre. The musical recounts the true story of 7,000 airline passengers unexpectedly grounded in the small town of Gander, Newfoundland after 9/11 and the generosity they received there. With a heartfelt score and clear storytelling, it highlights community, compassion, and human connection in a time of crisis. Tickets will be released in stages for benefactors, season ticket holders, and then the general public.

A free family movie night on Temple Field features Disney and Pixar's Toy Story. Attendees are welcome to bring a blanket or a chair and invite friends to enjoy the show together. Concessions will be on sale.

Carolina Crafted returns to Downtown Newton with a marketplace of makers, artists, and local agricultural producers set around the 1924 Courthouse Square. Live music will fill the Frank & Sue Jones Amphitheatre with performances by The Sigmon Stringers and Blue Cactus. Food and drink options include Brookrise Brewery, GasUp, Kona Ice, Pooter Pop Kettle Corn, Pop's Main Squeeze, RiQras de Empanadasrus, Saucy Buffalo, Travelin' Tom'sCoffee, and Warehouse Distillery. The event previously operated under the name Carolina Makers Market. More details will be shared as they are announced.

Experience WRC's 6th Annual Art in the Park at Sally Fox Park, where more than 50 local artists showcase their work throughout the park. Expect a lively atmosphere with food trucks and drinks along the street, live music from a new featured performer on the stage, and a silent auction displayed across the center's porch. This community gathering raises vital funds supporting women in Catawba, Caldwell, Alexander, and Burke Counties.

Converse about a wide range of metaphysical subjects while connecting with others who share similar interests. Each gathering centers on one theme introduced by a speaker, then opens up for group sharing of experiences and insights. Topics can include energy-based healing such as sound, light, touch, and tapping, the chakra system, meditation practices, mediumship, existence between lifetimes, near-death accounts, channeling, quantum shifts, and perspectives on beings beyond our world. Additional topic suggestions are welcomed. Open to everyone, with no registration needed.

Whole Lotta Presence pays homage to Led Zeppelin with a live show that focuses on the band’s hallmark contrasts, moving from subtle detail to full-force intensity. The performance spans gritty blues roots, far-reaching psychedelic journeys, intimate acoustic moments, and surging electric rock, reflecting the breadth of the original catalog. The set is crafted for fans of Zeppelin and classic rock who value faithful, energetic live musicianship.

Western Piedmont Symphony leads a journey through favorite scores from The Lord of the Rings, Harry Potter, Game of Thrones, Hook, World of Warcraft, the Chronicles of Narnia, and other celebrated worlds. The program brings these stories to life with an evening of sweeping themes, excitement, and nostalgia. Attendees are welcome to wear costumes, cosplay, or Renaissance-inspired outfits to enhance the fantasy atmosphere.

Barkin' At The Moon 12 brings an afternoon of drinks, great food, and community spirit to Crescent Moon Cafe in support of Sydney's Friends, a Catawba County 501c3 nonprofit. Guests can enjoy tastings, delicious dishes, a busy silent auction, and the company of fellow animal lovers, all benefiting the cause. A $35 ticket includes a commemorative tasting glass, complimentary tastings, food provided by Crescent Moon Cafe, and access to the silent auction, which features many appealing items, including several popular offerings returning from last year. Event T-shirts will be available for purchase, and rescue groups will be on site. Every ticket helps Sydney's Friends provide pet food and supplies to Meals on Wheels, support shelters and rescue partners, assist homeless outreach groups, and respond to disaster relief efforts for pets and the people who care for them.

An RSAF exhibition highlights the work of three artists: Kimberly Bost, Preeti Happer, and Carol Turner. Bost presents acrylic pieces, Happer showcases mixed media, and Turner works across acrylic, oil, and mixed media. The exhibition offers an online viewing option, and a reception is included.

Caldwell County Smart Start offers a community distribution of baby essentials at United Way of Caldwell County. This event provides key supplies for babies in a welcoming setting.

The Third Thursday lawn concert series at The HUB Station concludes with an evening of live music, community, and late summer spirit. Jon Boy & Lefty headline with a blend of blues, folk, Americana, southern rock, and classic country, delivering soulful tunes, vivid storytelling, and an energetic show from start to finish. Bring lawn chairs and blankets to relax on the grass. 3 Drinks Down Beverage Co. will offer craft beer and wine, and food truck details will be announced. Admission is free.

Green Day tribute Basketcase teams up with Atlanta-based Blink-182 tribute Blank-281 for a one-time show at the Premier. This special collaboration brings both acts together for a tribute performance celebrating the music of two pop punk favorites.

A charged tribute to Def Leppard brings the rush of arena rock to the stage. The band delivers soaring vocals and finely crafted guitar work, rolling through signature hits along with classics from other notable rock artists of the same era. The experience pairs the music with vivid lighting and pyrotechnic flourishes to create an atmosphere that feels like a return to rock’s heyday. Expect big riffs, sing-along choruses, and a salute to the songs that shaped a generation. Tickets range from $40 to $45.

Enjoy story time, then get creative by painting a ceramic bear magnet. Each child receives a personal piece to decorate and can work on their own or with help from a guardian or a staff member. Take as much time as needed to paint. When finished, the magnet will stay at the studio for firing and will be ready for pickup in one week.

At American Legion #247, Legionstock features live music from multiple bands, with the lineup to be announced. Merchandise and beer will be available.

Admission is free at this family-run celebration of peace and community, welcoming all ages. Expect makers selling handcrafted goods, tie-dye festival shirts, face painting, a bubble fairy, complimentary yoga sessions, live music, kid-friendly activities, photo opportunities, and more. The focus is on unity and a warm, creative atmosphere. Creative vendors are invited to apply to participate. For your protection, correspondence about acceptance or any payment requests will come only through the festival’s official email. Be cautious of scammers and do not send money to anyone else.

This stand-up showcase raises funds for Friends for Animals - Humane Society of Burke County and is hosted at American Legion Valdese Post 234. Headliner Clay Foley, a former animal cruelty investigator and committed animal rescuer, brings his COMEDY TO THE RESCUE tour, which travels the country supporting animal charities. The show also features opening comedian Ryan Cox. Admission is $20 in advance or $25 at the door. To secure tickets ahead of time, call the shelter at 828-433-1115, visit the shelter in person, or use the PayPal link on the event page and note Comedy Night in the memo. Content includes some adult language and mature themes, with a recommendation for ages 16 and older.

A concert that brings both singers together on one stage. Scotty begins with his solo project, then returns to join Jared during the Saving Abel headlining set so they can perform together. One evening with both vocalists sharing the spotlight.

A high-energy tribute brings together the iconic catalogs of Foreigner and Journey, packing the punch of two arena best sellers into one show. The set features crowd favorites and power ballads like Hot Blooded, Separate Ways, I Want to Know What Love Is, and Any Way You Want It. Fronted by a YouTube sensation with a soaring range that mirrors the original voices, the performance focuses on faithful recreations of these beloved hits for a memorable night. Tickets are $40 to $45.

Enjoy a relaxing paint and sip class where an artist guides you step by step to complete your own canvas. This experience welcomes beginners and is enjoyable for all skill levels. All painting supplies are provided, and the instruction takes place in a friendly, welcoming setting. Take advantage of fall savings with $10 off. Choose an 11x14 canvas for $25, a 12x16 for $27, or a 16x20 for $30. Participants may bring their favorite beverages and snacks to enjoy during class.

Magical Mystery Doors brings a fresh spin to classic rock with a flagship production devoted to the music of The Beatles, Led Zeppelin, and The Doors. Rather than separate sets, the band weaves the catalogs together, creating mashups and medleys that link melodies and riffs in surprising ways. Think the pulse of Hello, I Love You intertwined with Misty Mountain Hop, or a flowing arc that moves from The Rain Song into Riders on the Storm and then Here Comes the Sun. Dynamic lighting and visuals amplify the journey, giving familiar songbooks a contemporary edge. Presented at Newton Performing Arts Center. Tickets range from $40 to $45.

Par Faith Golf Tournament brings golfers together at Lenoir Golf Club for a fun-raiser supporting Faith Fair. The outing features an afternoon shotgun start and a meal.

Downtown Newton comes alive with a celebration of Latino and Hispano American culture. Enjoy live music and dance, flavorful food, colorful face painting, and festive piñatas. A quinceañera parade and contest brings extra sparkle, and the Outstanding Latino of Catawba County Award recognizes community achievement. Admission is free and everyone is welcome. Guests are encouraged to wear a jersey or traditional attire from a favorite Latin American country and to bring chairs or blankets for seating. Only service animals are allowed.

EagleMania, billed as the world’s greatest Eagles tribute, brings a faithful live recreation of The Eagles’ music to Newton Performing Arts Center. With layered five-part harmonies and precise instrumentation, the band focuses on authentic arrangements drawn from the original recordings. The set features the group’s best-loved songs along with select solo favorites from Don Henley, Glenn Frey, and Joe Walsh. Two performances are scheduled. Tickets range from $40 to $45.

Blue Monday transforms The Premier into a retro meets future dance party, channeling vintage synths and big 80s hooks with modern electro rock energy. This Charlotte, North Carolina outfit blends new wave, synth rock, and alternative dance favorites into a high-energy show featuring polished production and plenty of sing-along moments. Retro attire fits the vibe for a celebration of the sounds that shaped a generation.

Set on the fairways of Catawba Country Club, this charity tournament benefits the children and youth served by Growing Futures at Sipe's Orchard Home. The focus is golf and giving, with a fundraising goal of $35,000 to support programs for young people. It is the Growing Futures on the Greens REI Charity Golf Classic.

Returning to Iron Thunder Saloon & Grill - Hickory, this gathering centers on motorcycles and music. The focus is a night of bikes paired with music.

This free, public event in Bost Memorial Hall on the campus of Corinth Reformed Church offers hope and practical guidance for parents whose adult children have pulled away. Grounded in the reality that roughly 10 percent of Americans experience estrangement from a parent or a child, often tied to childhood abuse or neglect, ongoing conflict, boundary breaches, deep value differences, or disputes around divorce, relationships, inheritance, or politics, Mary DeMuth addresses the grief many parents carry. She stresses that while no parent can direct an adult child’s decisions, they can choose a response marked by Christlike love, faithful prayer, and careful, compassionate listening. Acknowledging the weight of guilt, shame, disappointment, and fear, Mary encourages parents to release the urge to fix or rescue and to place their sons and daughters in God’s care. Her message centers on hope, inviting parents to remain steadfast in love, persevere in prayer, listen with care, and rest in God’s peace while trusting Him with their children’s paths. This series is designed for everyone, whether you attend Corinth, another church, or no church at all.

Krystal King brings down-to-earth storytelling and sharp humor to vivid, relatable songs, pairing a blend of classic and 90s country with touches of blues, rock, and folk. Originally from Hickory, North Carolina and now based in Nashville, she tours across the country and is often compared to Loretta Lynn.

Celebrating its fifth year, the 5th Annual Miss North Carolina Sunshine State Pageant brings contestants to Old Rock School for a weekend centered on fun, confidence, and crowning moments. Recognized by Pageant Planet as a Top 5 state pageant, the event features three required competitions, including Beauty, Fun Fashion, and Interview, with additional optional categories available for extra stage time and practice before finals. State queens receive an extensive prize package that includes gifts, NCSP merchandise and apparel throughout the reign, a tumbler, a crown box, an embroidered and stoned sash, a full round crown, a trophy and scepter, a queens retreat, a Christmas party and outings, a custom pillowcase, Hulken bags for overall winners, and several cash prizes provided by sponsors. The host hotel is the Hilton Garden Inn Hickory. Titleholders are expected to serve as active representatives of the system, so prospective contestants should review the handbook to ensure the responsibilities are a good fit, and those unable to fully commit are encouraged to allow the opportunity to someone who can.

Downtown Newton’s monthly First Friday Art Hop brings the community together to celebrate creativity across galleries, shops, and places to eat and drink. Visitors can wander from spot to spot for an evening of visual art, live demonstrations, music, and chances to meet the artists who keep the local scene vibrant. For October, art happenings are hosted by 2 Pink Magnolias, 3 Little Birds, Discretion Underground, Libreria, NoCo Arts, and The Rabbit Hole Gifts. Other venues welcoming visitors include B-52s, Backstreets, Bernie’s, Brookrise Brewery, Chilangos Tacos N Cantina, El Batan, Geppeto’s Pizza, Mr. Game & Lounge, and Refuge Designs. It is an easy way to experience the energy of downtown while supporting local businesses and the people who create here.

Henry IV, Part I arrives at Southside Park in Newton, NC as part of Shakespeare in the Park. This free public production presents William Shakespeare’s stirring history as Prince Hal weighs a life of carefree exploits against the duties of the crown. The story brims with intrigue and rebellion, while the sharp-witted Sir John Falstaff adds lively humor. Comedy and conflict intertwine as a young heir navigates the road from mischief to responsibility.

NC Foothills Finest partners with BallDawgs to present a high-energy youth basketball camp at the Martin Luther King Center in Lenoir. Former UNC star and NCAA champion Ty Lawson, a first-round NBA pick with many years of pro experience, leads the on-court development. The camp serves grades 3 through 8, with two tracks tailored by age: Next-Gen Academy for grades 3 to 5 and Elite Prospect Camp for grades 6 to 8. Enrollment is limited for hands-on instruction. The fee is $75 and includes a custom T-shirt and focused skill-lab training. Each registered participant also receives a complimentary ticket to an evening Ty Lawson vs. 828/704 showdown. After the youth sessions conclude, the action shifts to an exclusive 1v1 event that offers a chance to go head-to-head with a professional player, with official rules to be announced. Spectators are welcome, with public admission priced at $10 for adults and $5 for kids.

An outdoor celebration of European motoring spotlights up to 80 classic vehicles in a relaxed, intimate setting that favors authenticity over the pressure typical of concours competitions. Spectators are welcome at no cost and can vote for their favorite car. Beyond the showcase, the day features live music, tasty food, a beer garden, merchandise for purchase, children’s art activities, and an awards presentation. Proceeds support the Museum’s educational programs. This event takes place rain or shine. For details, contact Danielle Cannon, Director of Donor Relations at the Hickory Museum of Art, at (828) 327-8576 or dcannon@hickoryart.org.

Denim & Diamonds 2026, hosted by the Children’s Advocacy and Protection Center, focuses on raising awareness and support for child advocacy. The event highlights efforts to protect and uplift children through community support. Ticket information will be available soon.

At Newton Performing Arts Center, Dirty Deeds delivers a high-voltage tribute to AC/DC focused on the Bon Scott and Brian Johnson years. The performance channels the searing guitars of Angus and Malcolm Young and recreates the band’s chemistry with iconic stagecraft, creating an immersive, true-to-the-source, and interactive experience that traces AC/DC’s story and the spirit of classic rock and roll. Known for fiery sets at packed shows across the country, the group combines precision and passion to honor the band’s legacy. Tickets range from $40 to $45.

A celebration focused on having fun and good times.

Presented in partnership with the Hickory Jazz Society, the City of Hickory and the Hickory Downtown Development Association, this free downtown Jazz Legacy concert takes place outdoors on the Commscope Stage in front of the Olde Hickory Taproom. This installment spotlights Maria Howell and Noel Friedline. Each event in the series lasts two hours, and other performances feature the Byron Bean Dixieland Band, Todd Wright with Andy Page, Rick Cline and Adam Booker, and a lineup with Juan Carlos Rollins, Noel Friedline and Zack Page.

Port City Quartet presents a Southern Gospel concert at Harrisburg Baptist Church, blending timeless favorites with original songs delivered in rich four part harmony. The program celebrates faith and worship and offers a welcoming experience for all ages. Admission is free, and a love offering will be received.

This free, in-person, full-day training from Patrick Beaver Learning Resource Center is designed for caring community members who want to help children become confident readers. Offered over three days, the program shares research-backed strategies for supporting students who struggle with reading. After completing the training, each tutor is paired with one child to deliver 60 free one-on-one lessons throughout the school year, fostering growth in skills, confidence, and enthusiasm for reading. No prior teaching experience is required, only a willingness to learn and a commitment to a child’s success. Tutor one child and change two lives, theirs and yours. The focus is on empowering readers, supporting families, and building confident learners.

At Olde Hickory Brewery in Hickory, NC, this hands-on epoxy woodworking workshop guides participants in crafting a custom piece such as a river charcuterie board, lazy susan, clock, key holder shelf, coasters, or a mini pair. Projects are built with premium black walnut and other fine hardwoods, then accented with epoxy in colors chosen on site. Each person may select up to two epoxy colors. After the making session, pieces cure for about a week before entering a detailed finishing phase. Completion and delivery typically take 8 to 10 weeks, with timing influenced by class size and shipping. Finished items are shipped once ready. All ticket sales are final. If the original ticket holder cannot attend, a substitute may participate in their place. Each attendee aged 12 and up must have a ticket, and a couples ticket allows two people to collaborate on a single project.

Experience Hickory’s pop-up consignment shop focused on women’s and men’s clothing, shoes, and accessories. Hosted at the Hickory Metro Convention Center, admission is free. Browse a wide selection of gently used and new pieces from brands such as Free People, Madewell, Nike, Reformation, Lululemon, and Abercrombie, typically priced 50 to 80 percent off retail. The event wraps up with a half-off day for extra savings. It appears only twice a year, offering a limited-time chance to refresh a wardrobe for less. Those wishing to sell can register as consignors to turn quality items into cash.

Deacon Black brings a rock and roll party to The Premier, delivering timeless classic rock favorites, standout musicianship, and a high-energy show crafted for fans of the genre. Expect an intimate concert atmosphere and a set filled with songs you know. Tickets are available for purchase.

A Halloween-themed night of mind-bending illusions and comedy designed for all ages features master illusionist David Caserta, who involves the audience as people seem to levitate, vanish, and return, with brand-new effects created specifically for this show. Playful chills meet plenty of laughs in a seasonal celebration filled with tricks and treats. The production pairs original illusions with theatrical flair, including moving lighting, a themed musical score, and atmospheric smoke, supported by up-to-date stage technology. David Caserta tours nationwide and has been seen on NBC’s America’s Got Talent, the CW’s Penn and Teller Fool Us, and international television. Tickets are $25 to $35.

Lake Rhodhiss Trailfest at Valdese Lakeside Park features timed options of 3 hours, 6 hours, and 12 hours on a repeatable course. Each lap is roughly 3 miles, combining about 2 miles of wooded trail with 1 mile of crushed cinder greenway, and the goal is to accumulate as many miles as possible within the chosen time. Participants may focus on total mileage or select a personal distance goal that fits the time window. For example, reaching 50K within six hours would take roughly a five mile per hour pace, while the twelve hour format leaves room to hike toward a target. Space will be available near the start and finish for a personal 10 by 10 canopy or a table, and an assortment of food and beverages will be offered during the races. Live music on the pavilion stage is planned at times during the event. Additional details will be shared, and registration is open.

Tri Five’s Cruising The Blue Fall Run sets off from Lenoir, North Carolina for a day focused on Tri Fives, camaraderie, and a scenic drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway. The day begins with an optional breakfast at HWY 55 in Lenoir, then participants gather at Crest View Baptist Church for a drivers briefing and prayer before rolling out north on Hwy 321 toward the parkway. Route specifics will be shared by organizers, and the cruise typically covers 55 to 65 miles. The drive concludes with a Cruise-In at the private residence of Jeff and Linda Shore in Boone, located just off the parkway in the Bamboo area. On-site, Perkz will serve food and drinks, portable restrooms will be available, and attendees are asked to bring their own chairs and skip tents. Drivers are encouraged to fuel up before departure and to cruise together by keeping a few car lengths between vehicles, avoiding large gaps, and not allowing non-participants to break into the line. The group maintains a pace slightly below the posted limit to help everyone stay together. Lodging suggestions in Lenoir include the Hampton Inn and Comfort Inn. Organizers also ask those planning to attend to mark their participation to help with an accurate car count and to spread the word to Tri Five friends.

Explore painting through the approachable lens of pantry and other simple objects with artist and educator Jean Lee Cauthen. Working from everyday items offers a clear path to stronger technique, and the insights you gain can carry over to everything from still life to landscape. This workshop welcomes near beginners as well as more seasoned painters looking to loosen up and tap the expressive potential of the brush. In a supportive setting, Jean unpacks essentials such as what a medium is and how to begin a painting, then guides you step by step to complete a small study of an ordinary object. Expect to grow more confident with color mixing, blocking in, understanding value, expressive brushwork, and making lively color choices. Some painting experience is recommended. All supplies are provided, bring a good sense of fun, and pack a lunch. Tuition is $175, with a $150 rate for members. Jean Lee Cauthen brings an extensive background to the studio. She grew up in Naples, Italy, New Orleans, and the Carolinas, and holds an MFA in Painting and Drawing from James Madison University. Her career includes leadership as head of the Art Department at Caldwell Community College and Technical Institute and service as Professor of Art History at UNC-C. She has worked as a set designer in Moscow and regularly spends monthlong residencies in Italy, France, and Ireland. Her work is collected around the world and was recently acquired by Hickory Museum of Art. Highlights include a Hickory Museum of Art commission and exhibition for 2026, a feature in Plein Air Magazine’s Jan/Feb 2025 issue, recognition as a Grand Bohemian featured artist, Carillon Building in Charlotte’s “Provence Paintings” in May 2024, a solo exhibition at Highpoint Theater Art Gallery titled “Stolen Stories,” and inclusion in Queens University’s “Empowered: Right or Privilege.” Recent honors include First Place at the Blowing Rock Art and History Museum Paint Out in 2025, Third Place at the Doneraile, Ireland Paint Out in 2024, a Quick Paint Award in Wexford, Ireland in 2024, and Best in Show at the Belmont, NC Paint Out in 2023.

American Legion Fairgrounds provides the setting for the Unifour Hydraulics Twin 20s. This installment marks the tenth Clash and is associated with the Bull Ring.

At The Premier, the first edition of this multi-band rock festival brings six groups to a single stage for a full day devoted to hard rock and heavy music. Performing are Sickman, Deep 6, Stone Temple Project, As Daylight Dies, Let Love Rule, and Frizzle Fries.

Interstellar Echoes brings a double-set tribute to Pink Floyd to Newton Performing Arts Center, featuring a full band production with lights and laser effects. Built on meticulous research into the band’s sound, visuals, and lore, the show weaves together classics and deep cuts for an immersive concert experience that speaks to dedicated fans. Tickets range from $35 to $40.

Authentic Unlimited delivers tight harmonies and masterful musicianship that honor bluegrass roots while bringing fresh energy to the sound. The group features seasoned players, including alumni of Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver, and has earned recognition with IBMA awards and nominations as well as Dove Awards nominations. Their songs pair heartfelt storytelling with melodies that resonate across generations of bluegrass listeners. Recent albums So Much for Forever and Gospel Sessions Vol. 2 highlight the range and spirit they bring to the stage. This performance is part of Bluegrass at the Rock, with individual tickets available.

FreeBird ATL brings a high-energy salute to Lynyrd Skynyrd to The Premier, featuring Southern rock favorites and well-known hits. As a leading Skynyrd tribute act, the band channels the sound and onstage spirit of the originals so the music lands with the same drive and enduring appeal.

Renowned Christian hard-rock band Stryper brings its "heavenly metal" to Newton Performing Arts Center. With more than four decades of music-making, the quartet continues to deliver tight harmonies, riff-driven guitars and impassioned vocals, and it recently added the studio album When We Were Kings to its catalog. Themes across songs like Trinity, End of Days, Unforgiveable, Divided by Design and Betrayed by Love span faith, the end times, mercy, common ground and heartbreak. The group first broke through with Billboard Top 40 hits including Calling on You, Honestly and Always There for You, achieved multiplatinum success with To Hell with the Devil, and once placed two videos, Free and Honestly, in MTV’s Top 10 at the same time. The lineup features original members Michael Sweet, Robert Sweet and Oz Fox with bassist Perry Richardson, and the band is also developing a Kickstarter-backed documentary supported by more than 1,700 fans. Tickets range from $85 to $100, with a Gold Circle option that secures the closest seats along with early entry and first access to merchandise.

Valdese Lakeside Park hosts a Great Trails State Day mileage challenge that aims to collectively cover 2,026 miles in a single day. Distances completed on foot, by bike, or by paddle will be tallied as people depart the park. Complimentary treats are available while supplies last, including coffee and donuts, hot dogs, and pizza. Throughout the day there will also be free stickers and magnets, crafts for kids, and water and snacks, available while they last. The effort is supported by the Town of Valdese Parks and Recreation Department. Recent milestones show strong momentum, with 1,526 miles achieved in 2023 against a 1,000-mile target, 2,056 miles in 2024 against a 2,000-mile target, and 2,063 miles in 2025 against a 2,025-mile target.

Tour of Destruction returns to Hickory Motor Speedway with an action-packed slate of motorsports mayhem. Look for school bus racing, car-crashing stunts, monster truck action, a jet car burn down, a trailer race, a demolition derby, stock enduro, a skid car race, and a flag pole race, with more in the mix. The lineup is subject to change. Tickets are offered in tiers, beginning with a limited first 500 level for adults, then a first 1000 level, followed by a discounted tier and week-of-show pricing. Kids are $10 across tiers, and children 2 and under are free.

A heartfelt tribute to The Carpenters arrives at the Newton Performing Arts Center, led by vocalist Debbie Taylor, whose tone closely reflects Karen Carpenter’s warm contralto. She is joined by a seven-piece band of professional multi-instrumentalists who sometimes perform on three keyboards to capture Richard Carpenter’s layered arrangements, with saxophone, trumpet, flute, and more adding rich color to the sound. The same eight musicians perform together at every show, and everything is played live without tracks or pickup players. A multimedia slideshow enhances the performance as the band revisits favorites such as Close to You, We’ve Only Just Begun, Rainy Days and Mondays, Please Mr. Postman, and Yesterday Once More, while sharing backstories that bring the music into focus. Tickets range from $40 to $45.

Part of the Jazz Legacy Concert Series presented in partnership with the Hickory Jazz Society, the City of Hickory, and the Hickory Downtown Development Association, this free downtown performance features Juan Carlos Rollins, Noel Friedline, and Zack Page on the Commscope Stage in front of the Olde Hickory Taproom. The series offers four outdoor concerts, bringing live jazz to the heart of Hickory in an inviting, open-air setting.

An exhibition showcasing artwork by elementary students together with pieces from their art teachers. The show runs over multiple days and also features a reception during the exhibition.

Set on the Isle of the Lost, home to Disney's most notorious villains, this musical follows the teenage children of Maleficent, the Evil Queen, Jafar, and Cruella de Vil. After a lifetime confined to the island, the four are sent to attend a prep school alongside the children of beloved heroes. Confronted with temptation and opportunity, they must decide whether to follow in their parents' footsteps or choose a new path toward goodness.

The event features a KCBS BBQ competition complemented by festival activities to be announced. Professional competition teams from across the Southeast United States will prepare People's Choice plates as part of the program. All of this unfolds in a beautiful fairground setting.

Newton Performing Arts Center hosts a murder mystery dinner theater that blends a three course meal with a madcap whodunit inspired by the cult classic film and the beloved board game. On a stormy night at Boddy Manor, a cast of eccentric guests known as Scarlet, Plum, White, Green, Peacock, and Mustard scramble to uncover the murderer as clues surface and the stakes rise. The butler presents an assortment of possible weapons, the host is found dead, and the twists keep coming until the very end. Dinner features a fresh garden salad, an entree selection including grilled shrimp, beef steak tips with peppers and onions, and chicken tenders served with grilled vegetables and a baked potato, followed by devil’s food chocolate cake. Tea and water are served with the meal, and a bar offers soft drinks, beer, wine, and themed cocktail assortments for purchase. Tickets are presale only and not available at the door. Dinner tickets are $75, and show only tickets are $25.

Ichabod Crane finds himself entangled with the infamous Headless Horseman in a stage adaptation that blends eerie tension, lighthearted humor, and playful scares. Adapted and written by John David Brown III and presented in the McCreary Theatre, this production brings the timeless legend to the stage with an engaging mix of thrills and laughs. Tickets are released in phases, beginning with benefactors, followed by season ticket holders, and then the general public.

At Valdese Lakeside Park’s Pavilion on the Green, an autumn evening unfolds along a lantern-lit trail where storytellers share chilling classics, eerie folklore, and local legends. Presented by Friends of the Valdese Rec, Old Colony Players Guild, Old Colony Players, the Valdese Rec Dept, and the Burke River Trail Association, this new fall tradition features a relaxed stroll of less than a mile with several stops for tales by the glow of lanterns. The program is family-friendly and especially suited for teens, offering just the right blend of spooky and fun, and it appeals to adults and young adults as well. The night begins with hot apple cider and build-your-own treat bags, moves into a series of stories along the trail, and concludes with a marshmallow roast by the fire. There are no jump scares or gore, just classic storytelling beneath a crisp seasonal sky. Comfortable shoes are recommended, bring a flashlight, and costumes are encouraged. Admission is free.

Downtown Valdese transforms for the annual Treats in the Streets, a family-friendly Halloween celebration presented by the Valdese Merchants and the Town of Valdese. Local businesses hand out candy to little ghosts and goblins, and treats tend to go quickly. Festive live entertainment sets the mood, and a roaming mystery guest will mingle through the crowd to spot standout costumes and award special prizes. It is a welcoming outing for kids, families, and Halloween fans of all ages.

Downtown Lenoir hosts a Friday Night Live performance featuring News @ 11. This outdoor live music event welcomes families and friends. Browse nearby shops, pick up something to eat, and enjoy beverages within the social district.

Slaughter brings a night of rock drawn from a legacy that first broke through on radio and MTV in 1990. Known for the singles Up All Night and Fly To The Angels, the band’s road history includes tours with Kiss and Ozzy, along with a long-running Rock Never Stops tour. Over the years they have kept an active schedule, performing 40 to 50 shows annually at casinos, fairs, festivals, and biker rallies across the United States, with festival appearances in Sweden, Japan, Mexico, and Germany. Their catalog includes five number one MTV videos and seven tracks that received AOR radio rotation. Tickets are $55 to $60.

Patrick Beaver Learning Resource Center offers a free, in-person tutor training for community members who want to help children become confident readers. The program spans three full days and teaches research-backed techniques for assisting students who find reading challenging. After finishing the training, each tutor is matched with one student and provides 60 free, one-on-one lessons throughout the school year, supporting growth in skills, confidence, and enjoyment of reading. No prior teaching experience is needed, only a readiness to learn and a commitment to a child's success.

Formed in 2001, The Iron Maidens deliver an award winning tribute to Iron Maiden with a growing international following. Their production blends precision musicianship with lively stagecraft and theatrical moments, presenting classics and fan favorites from every chapter of the original band’s history. Expect onstage appearances by Eddie, the grim reaper, the devil, and other characters that heighten the spectacle. The lineup features Kirsten “Bruce Chickinson” Rosenberg on vocals, Linda “Nikki McBURRain” McDonald on drums, Nikki “Davina Murray” Stringfield on guitars, and Wanda “Steph Harris” Ortiz on bass. Each member is a seasoned professional whose training spans orchestral and musical theater through blues and rock, and together they have earned honors including best tribute band and individual category awards from the Rock City News Awards, the LA Music Awards, and the All Access Magazine Award Show. Known for drawing packed rooms, this show offers a powerful salute to Iron Maiden. Tickets are $40 to $45.

Built around community, connection, and personal growth, Wellness on the Rocks Festival brings together local wellness vendors with interactive activities and educational sessions. Participants can discover resources that support their well-being while forming meaningful relationships with others who share similar interests. Now in its second year, this gathering continues to cultivate a thriving network focused on health and connection.

Old Rock School hosts Russell Moore & IIIrd Tyme Out for an evening steeped in bluegrass tradition. The group’s songs have become touchstones for a new generation of pickers and singers across the country, who often learn and perform their classics as they develop their craft. Russell Moore notes that the most meaningful recognition comes not from awards, but from seeing the music make a difference for listeners. The band’s success grows from doing what they love together, moving in the same direction, and sharing music that remains both heartfelt and restorative.

Double Duran channels the pulse of new wave pop in a high-energy tribute to Duran Duran. The show pairs precise, faithful musicianship with striking visuals and a polished multimedia presentation, capturing the sound, style, and momentum of the British originals. Expect shimmering synths, pulsing bass lines, layered harmonies, cinema-style projections, and the fashionable flair that defined the era. Signature songs such as Hungry Like the Wolf, Rio, The Reflex, and Girls on Film drive the set, giving fans a vivid return to the band’s heyday. Known for careful attention to detail onstage and onscreen, this production draws enthusiastic feedback from venues, promoters, and longtime followers who say it comes remarkably close to the real thing. Tickets range from $30 to $35.

JS & the FOOTLIGHTS bring lively honky tonk energy to Catawba Valley Zodiac Club, with toe tapping rhythms and an upbeat, dance friendly groove.

Meet new people in the Hickory area at a free social club gathering hosted at Appalachian State University- Hickory Campus. Sponsored by Allstate (Lindsey Fisher), this get-together offers a chance to connect with others in the community. Food and beverages will be provided by App State Hickory.

Little Texas brings a powerhouse country concert that reflects a legacy built on writing and playing their own songs, tight vocal blends, and guitar-forward energy. The set draws from a run of radio favorites that began with “Some Guys Have All the Love” and continued with 12 Top 20 singles, including three back-to-back No. 1 hits... “My Love,” “What Might Have Been,” and “God Blessed Texas.” With more than 7 million albums sold, the band’s momentum included a double-platinum sophomore album, Big Time, plus Grammy, CMA, and ACM nominations, culminating in the ACM Award for Top Vocal Group. Their influence remains strong, with recent recognition for “God Blessed Texas” and a tribute project featuring dozens of Texas artists who credit the group with shaping their sound and pride. Tickets are $75 to $60. Gold Circle seating offers the closest views along with early entry to the venue and merchandise.

Handel’s Messiah fills the intimate sanctuary of St. Luke’s United Methodist Church in a historically informed Baroque interpretation guided by Maestro Matthew Troy. The Symphony Singers, a select regional ensemble of professional vocalists, make their Masterworks debut alongside a Baroque chamber orchestra. The setting invites close connection with the music, with voices rising through the church’s warm acoustic for an immersive encounter with one of classical music’s most enduring masterworks. The program features Handel’s Messiah, presented with fresh clarity and grace as part of a long-standing holiday tradition.

Barbara Robinson’s The Best Christmas Pageant Ever is presented in the McCreary Theatre, following the Herdman children as they seize control of an annual pageant and send it into upheaval. Out of the chaos comes a heartfelt and funny retelling of the Nativity that highlights the spirit of the season. Tickets will be released in phases for benefactors, season ticket holders, and then the general public.