This & That
Rowan’s 1766 Old Stone House featured on UNC-TV — 8 p.m., Thursday evening, May 3: The Old Stone House, built by German immigrant Michael Braun, to be on UNC-TV’s Our State program; features Kaye Brown Hirst, Executive Director of the Rowan Museum and eighth generation descendant of Michael Braun. Museum staffer Uta Braun and volunteer Robbie Cochran were also filmed in colonial costumes, preparing food over an open fire and speaking in German. For more information call 704-633-5946 or email rowanmuseum@fibrant.com
Big Band dance at J.F. Hurley Family YMCA — 7-10 p.m., Saturday, May 5: Music to dance by with the Highlighters. $5 entry fee, bring a snack to share. 828 W Jake Alexander Blvd., 704-636-0111.
Historic Salisbury narrated trolley tour — 11 a.m. Saturdays, April through Oct. Tours begin/end at Visitor’s Center, 204 E. Innes St. $8 for adults, children 4 to 10 $5, under 4 free. 704-638-3100, www.visitsalisburync.com
Stamp and postcard show — May 5-6, Char-Meck Senior Center, 2225 Tyvola Road, Charlotte between South Blvd. and SouthPark Mall. Free admission, parking. 828-274-3804, www.richardstampshop.com
Faith Fourth of July Parade entries — Applications now being accepted, call James, Sylvia or Pam Alexander at 704-279-2256. Deadline June 18. For Faith Idol entry information, see Call for Musicians.
Great Books Discussion Group — 5:30 p.m., Tuesday, May 8: Discussing Tocqueville’s “Antigone” by Sophocles. Concord Library meeting room. Pre-register at 704-920-2054, 27 Union St., N., Concord, jseury@cabarruscounty.us
Downtown Spring Night Out — 5-9 p.m., Friday, May 11: Contemporary jazz by The Brubakers; free family event with displays, activities, programs, kids’ activities, trolley rides, South Main Classic Car Show, Downtown Ghost Walk, drum circle. www.downtownsalisburync.com
Salisbury Rowan Quilters’ Guild presents ‘Sunny Days and Starry Nights’ — May 18-19: Quilt show at First Baptist Church, First Ministry Center, 223 N. Fulton St. 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m., Friday and 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday. 200+ professionally judged traditional and modern quilts, Alzheimer’s Initiative Quilts, Challenge Quilts, other Fiber Arts. Sewing, quilting and fiber vendors. Demonstrations, silent auction, door prizes, Tea Room featuring fresh North Carolina strawberries. Admission $5, children 12 and under free.
Family laser show ‘Laser Country’ — 5 p.m., Saturday, May 19: Fast-paced, toe-tapping program for country music fans across the generations. Early days legends such as Johnny Cash, Patsy Cline blended with contemporary artists such as Rascal Flatts, Zac Brown Band. Doors open 4:30 p.m. Adults $3, 12 and under $2. Margaret C. Woodson Planetarium at Horizons Unlimited, park on Lilly Ave., 704-639-3004.
Rock laser show ‘Laseropolis’ — 7 p.m., Saturday, May 19: Mix of music, dazzling laser effects for fans of great rock bands of 70s, 80s, 90s. Familiar songs by REM, Future Sounds of London, Emerson Lake & Palmer, Creed, Nirvana, more. Viewer Discretion advised, some songs may contain lyrics and images inappropriate for young children. Doors open 6:30 p.m. Adults $5, 12 and under $3. Margaret C. Woodson Planetarium at Horizons Unlimited, 1636 Parkview Circle, park on Lilly Ave., 704-639-3004.
Theater
‘Dirty Barbie’ Saturday matinee is free — 2 p.m., Saturday, May 5•Reservations recommended for all performances; tickets can be reserved online at http:// deedeestewartproject.ticketleap.com/dirty-barbie-and-other-girlhood-tales/, or by email at deedeeslivingwill@gmail.com• Other performances 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, $15. Looking Glass Artist Collective, 704-754-2321, 405 N. Lee St., www.leestreet.org
Old Courthouse Theatre presents ‘110 in the Shade’ — 8 p.m., May 4, 5, 11, 12. 2:30 p.m., May 6. Based on the play “The Rainmaker” by N. Richard Nash. $15/ $12/$10. 49 Spring Street NW, 704 788-2405, www.oldcourthousetheatre.org
‘Jude the Obscure Parts I & II’ at Burning Coal Theatre, Raleigh — Through May 5: Tickets $20. Burning Coal Theatre Company, Murphey School autidorium, 224 Polk St., Raleigh, 919-834-4001, www.burningcoal.org
Carolina Actors Studio Theater presents Jonathan Coarsey in ‘Floyd Collins’ — Through May 12. NODA@28 St., 2424 North Davidson, Charlotte, NC 28205. Reservations www.NCCAST.com, 704-455-8542.
Old Courthouse Theatre’s Living Room Reading Series ‘Neil Simon’s The Dinner Party’ comedy — 4 p.m., Sunday, May 20: Free admission, 704-788-2405, OCT main theater, 49 Spring Street NW, Concord, 704-788-2405, www.oldcourthousetheatre.org
Music & more
Brick Street Live 2012 concert series opener — Gates open 6 p.m., tonight, May 3: Blue Monday. Fisher Street, $5, www.brickstreetlive.com, www.facebook. com/brickstreetlive, 704-637-5363.
RCCA presents The Artie Shaw Orchestra — 3 p.m., Sunday, May 6: Keppel Auditorium, Catawba College, 2300 W. Innes St. Tickets $5-$20 at Visitor Center, Belk, Literary Book Post, Keppel Box Office one hour prior to show, 704-633-1474, 704-636-0181, www.rccamusic.com
No 9 Coal with special guest Jim Avett — 8 p.m., Friday, May 11, Looking Glass Artists Center, 405 N. Lee St. $8 at door. Concessions available. salisburyartists@gmail.com. 704-633-2787..
Faure’s ‘Requiem’ with orchestra — 7 p.m., Friday, May 18 and 3 p.m., Sunday, May 20: presented by The Piedmont Choral Society and the sanctuary choirs of Concord’s First Presbyterian Church and Central UMC. Held at First Baptist Church, 200 Branchview Drive, Concord. Free. 704-699-6053, kayy2000@gmail. com
Festivals
‘It’s A Spring Thing!’— 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Saturday, May 5: Third annual event with food, live music, wine tasting, vendors, bee yard, nature trail, picnic area, herb and flower cutting garden, greenhouse flowers, vegetable plants, petting zoo. Free admission and parking. SandyCreek Farm, 3160 South NC Hwy 150, Lexington, between Reeds and Tyro. www.sandycreekfarm150.com
16th annual multicultural festival– 10 a.m.–5 p.m., May 5: The City of Lexington’s one-day family oriented cultural explosion at Finch Park. www.Facebook. com/lexingtonrecreation, www.lexingtonnc.net, 336-248-3960.
Village Fest music and craft festival — May 11-12: Cabarrus Events Association’s 33rd festival in downtown Kannapolis. Begins Friday 5 p.m. with Festival of the Arts, 7 p.m. gospel group Karen Peck and New River. 9 a.m. Saturday, local dance studios perform until 11:30. 2 p.m., the Tim Clark Band. 7 p.m., Too Much Sylvia. Food, crafts, children’s entertainment. Bring a lawn chair. Brenda Drye at 704-932-3808.
Gold Hill Gold Rush Days — 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Saturday, May 12: Shops, artists, crafters, Three River Quilt Guild’s “Airing of the Quilts,” authhors, storytelling. 840 St. Stephen’s Church Road, goldhillmerchantsassociation@gmail.com
Second annual NC Brewers and Music Festival — 11 a.m.- 10 p.m., Saturday, May 12: Steep Canyon Rangers, Sol Driven Train, The Black Lillies, Ryan Montbleau Band, Larry Keel and Natural Bridge, Old Man Markley and BIG Something. Historic Rural Hill, Huntersville. www.showclix.com /event/210406
Let’s Get Connected Day — 11 a.m.-1 p.m., Saturday, May 19: music, food, dance, circle of prayer, dedication of peace pole. Performers: Overton Elementary Band, Mini Funk Factory, North Rowan Connections Choir, Kujamani Dance Team, Native Drummers. Ellis Park, 3541 Old Mocksville Road, Betty Jo Hardy 704-636-6119.
88th Old Time Fiddler’s and Bluegrass Festival, Fiddler’s Grove — May 25-27: Music competitions, workshops, storytelling, clogging, food, dancing. Advance tickets before May 15 $35, youth $15. After May 17 $50, youth $25. www.fiddlersgrove.com
Fundraisers
Memorial Ride for Hospice of NC — Registration begins 10 a.m. at Kohls, Sunday, May 6; kickstands up 11 a.m.; cookout and fun 2 p.m. at Dan Nicholas Park. $15/bike, $5/extra rider. Call 336-596-9011.
Kannapolis Roller Girls fundraiser dinner — To go orders only, pick up between May 7-13, Fatz Cafe, Afton Ridge off 85 exit 54. Advance tickets $10, Tammy at 704-273-3989. Benefits the amateur roller derby team open to all women.
Hills Worship Benefit Concert — 5-7 p.m., Saturday, May 12, North Hills Christian School grounds: free outdoor concert, food for sale, door prizes/raffles/silent auction. Proceeds go toward purchasing band equipment. http://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=SCB9bCWxmrs
Vendor fair/craft sale benefitevents — 10 a.m.-4 p.m., May 12 at Eastwood Baptist Church, 320 Cook St., Kannapolis•10 a.m.-4 p.m., May 26 at Unity United Methodist Church, 8505 Unity Church Road, Kannapolis• To benefit the Witherspoon family that lost everything in a house fire. Craft vendors, food, 50/50 raffle, silent auction, more.
Night Life
The Blue Vine, 209 S. Main St. — 9-midnight, Friday, May 4: Diane Hoffman Band, $5 cover • 9-midnight, Saturday, May 5: Lonnie Carpenter, no cover. 704-797-0093, www.thebluevine.com
Buckshots Live Music Venue, 5658 S. Main St. — Wednesday, Open Jam Night•Thursday, Hot Rods and Harleys with deejay Fast Freddie • Saturday, the Salisbury Zombie Prom with Graveyard Boulevard and Whiskey Hellchild. Doors open 4 p.m., music begins around 8 p.m. 704-856-0227.
DJ’s, 1502 W. Innes St., — 8:30 p.m., Thursday, Friday, Saturday: Live music. 704-638-9647, www.DJsRestaurant. com
Fat Jack’s Pub, 120 Military Ave., — 8 p.m., Fridays: Karaoke • 8:30 p.m., Saturday, May 5: Kryhavok Band. 704-638-8996.
The Fuel Depot Bar and Grill, 2168 Statesville Blvd. — •Tuesday, Open Mic •Wednesday, World Tavern Poker• Thursday, 8 ball tournament, deejay/ karaoke with Cherokee•Friday jam session with Monkey Wrench (free).
High Rock Boat & Ski Club, 257 Boat Club Lane — Saturday, May 5: Cinco de Mayo with Darrell Harwood. Monday, Wednesday-Saturday. 704-637-9014, www.theboatandskiclub.com
The Inn, 1012 Mooresville HWY 150 — Saturday, May 5: Redemption, Exit Rite and Temples of the Spirit• Doors open 7 p.m. Saturdays, free refreshments, air hockey, foosball, pool, wi-fi. Public invited to jam or schedule their group to perform. 704-213-1467, www.inntheloop.
The Loft at Benchwarmers, 113 E. Fisher St. — Friday, May 4:National touring artist Neil Cribbs. Doors open 9 p.m. $5 cover. www.neilcribbs.com, www.reverbnation. com/venue/theloftbenchwarmers
Rick’s BBQ and Grill, 929 S. Main St. — 7 p.m., tonight, May 3: Karaoke performance by Romey Carlton• Bike Night 6-9 p.m. Mondays• Cruise-in 6-9 p.m. Tuesdays• Karaoke 7-close Friday-Saturdays. 704-642-0050.
Spencer Buffet, 1205 N. Salisbury Ave., Spencer — 6 p.m., Wednesdays: karaoke. 704-633-1200.
E.H. Montgomery General Store — Friday Night Bluegrass 6-10 p.m., open jam begins 8 p.m. Historic Village of Gold Hill, www.HistoricGoldHill.com, Facebook at Historic Gold Hill, 704-267-9439.
Bombadil at The Visulite, 1615 Elizabeth Ave., Charlotte — 10:15 p.m., Saturday, May 5, $10 advance, $12 DOS, 16+ must have ID, under 16 with parent only. CarolinaTix, 1-800-594-TIXX. 704-358-9200, www.visulite.com
Classes
Adult class at Pottery 101 — 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Wednesdays and 6:30-9 p.m. Tuesday or Wednesday evenings, June 12-Aug. 8 (no class week of July 4). All classes feature hand-building and wheel techniques, students not obligated to both but both processes will be demonstrated and available. Limited space, registration begins May 24. $200 includes 25# bag of clay, 8 classes and 5 hours of extra studio time. Additional studio time $5/hour. Pottery 101, 704-209-1632, pottery101nc@gmail.com, www.pottery-101.com
Children’s clay classes at Pottery 101 — For ages 6-14. $35 per class includes instruction, materials, firing. Payment due minimum three days in advance. 10a.m.-noon • May 5: Animal Banks • May 19: Funny Fish • May 26: Clay Whistles • Pottery 101, 704-209-1632, pottery101nc@gmail.com, www.pottery-101.com
Chrismon classes, all new designs — Intermediate, Friday,May 4: 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. • New Beginner, Saturday, May 5: 9:30-11:30 a.m. • Intermediate 2, Saturday, May 5: 9 a.m.-noon. Rufty’s Chrismon Shop, 280 Furniture Drive, 704-636-7790 for reservations/information, info@chrismons.com
Bring-your-own-vase floral design — 2-3 p.m., Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday: Designing fresh cut flowers, $5 per class plus cost of flowers, call for reservations; instructor David Harrison, Harrison’s Florist, 1012 Holmes Ave. off Grove St. near RRMC, 704-636-4251.
Mind aerobics art class — 2-4 p.m., Mondays and Fridays, taught by artist Robert Toth: An introduction to drawing, pastel and sculpture. $10 per two-hour session. Rufty Holmes Senior Center, call 704-279-9301.
Creative Art Experiences for ages 5-18 — Art lessons for children in your home, after school, evenings, weekends with Ingrid A. Erickson. $15/hour, $10 each additional child. 413-884-4499 for appointment. Studio at Rail Walk Gallery, 409 N. Lee St. Email: ingridaerickson@yahoo.com with questions. Rail Walk Gallery, 409 N. Lee St.
Classical Method of Oils Painting with Patt — Beginner or intermediate ongoing classes Tuesdays 1-3 p.m., studio of Patt Legg. One-on-one teaching methods of the Old Masters. $40 per 2 hour session. 704-232-6000, www.PattLegg. com
Creative painting workshops — 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., ongoing series, beginning to intermediate, traditional oil painting. $200 for eight sessions; scholarships and sliding scales. Registration/materials 704-245-6456. Instructor James E. Taylor, Contemporary Realism Studio, 211 S. Main St.
Card Making Class at the Ytonight— 6-8 p.m. every other Thursday, next class tonight May 3, all supplies included. J.F. Hurley Family YMCA, 828 W Jake Alexander Blvd., Terri Dockins 704-636-0111.
Watercolor classes at LGAC — Instructor Cathy Benfield Matthews, no experience needed; Mondays 1-3 p.m. or 5:30-7:30 p.m., or Saturdays 10 a.m.-noon, $35 each 2 hour session or $180 for 6, materials provided except brushes; reserve space at salisburyartists@gmail.com. Looking Glass Artist Collective, 405 N. Lee St., 704-633-ARTS, www.salisburyartists.com
Shag dance classes — Four-week sessions begin each month• Thursdays at High Rock Boat & Ski Club• Every other Friday at China Grove Methodist Church. Instructors are pro division dancers in Competitive Shag Association (carolinashaglessons.com). Thursdays: Beginner, 6:30-7 p.m. (preregister needed); Beginner II, 7-7:45; Intermediate/Advanced, 8-9. Wednesdays: Beginner, 7-7:45; Beginner II, 8-8:45. $10 per person; Beginner classes every other Friday, 7-8 p.m. beginning May 4-June 15.Contact Tobitha 704-202-9655 or tstewartrealtor@gmail.com.; David or Diane Harrington 704-279-6168.
Zumba fitness — •6:30 p.m. Tuesdays, First Baptist Church of Salisbury in old YMCA gym on Fulton St. •6 p.m. Thursdays, $3 per person, St. Matthews Church in Salisbury •6 p.m., Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Christ United Methodist Church, Hwy 150, o2bamom@att.net for details.
Salisbury community weight loss challenge — 6:30 p.m., Tuesdays through June 5: personal coach, free meal plan, group support. $35. Pre-register at 704-638-0165.
Let your inner artist out to play at Falling Rivers Gallery — 5:30-7:30 p.m., Thursday, May 10: Two-hour session to create yourvery own abstract painting led by professional artist Tatyana Buck. Stress free, creative entertainment with a take-home at the end of the evening; bring your own wine or beverage, kick back with cool tunes, let your inner artist out. $35, art supplies included, maximum 10 participants, adults only. Registration, prepayment required.704-983-4278, fallingriversgallery@yahoo.com, 119 W. Main St., Albemarle.
Uta Hagen-based acting class — 7-10 p.m., Mondays, June 11-July 30: Eight week scene study class taught by Burning Coal’s Artistic director, Jerome Davis. $200, Burning Coal Theatre at the Murphey School, 224 Polk St., Raleigh. Register at 919-834-4001 or www.burningcoal.org.
Singles
Piedmont Singles — 7:15 Fridays. 1908 Statesville Blvd, Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, no joining fee, donations appreciated, covered dish..
Auditions
St. Thomas Players ‘The Retreat from Moscow’ — 7 p.m., May 7-8: one man mid-50s, one woman mid-50s, one man 30-ish. Convincing English accent a plus. Cold readings from script, performances Aug. 1-11. Audition at Center for Faith & the Arts 207 W. Harrison St. (basement of Haven Lutheran Church). DirectorJustin Dionne, justindionne84@ gmail.com
Lee Street Theatre’s 3rd Annual 10 Minute Play Festival:7 p.m. Monday, May 14 and Tuesday, May 15 at the Black Box Theater, 405 N. Lee St. Performances June 6-9. Six 10-minute plays will be performed around the theme of “Six Feet Under.”Roles available for adults all ages. Auditions will consist of cold readings from the scripts. Justin Dionne will direct. Information, email leestreettheatre@gmail.com
North Carolina Symphony 2012 Youth Concerto Competition — Auditions begin May 19: Preliminary round of annual Kathleen Price and Joseph M. Bryan Youth Concerto Competition, Wainwright Music Building, Meredith College, Raleigh. Application form under competitions & awards at www.ncsymphony.org/ educationprograms, jmyers@ncsymphony.org or 919-789-5461.
Call for vendors
Gold Hill Gold Rush Days — Saturday, May 12, 840 St. Stephen’s Church Road, Gold Hill: Artists, crafters, Three River Quilt guild’s “Airing of the Quilts,” atuhors, storytelling. Vendor applications at www.goldhill.com, email goldhillmerchantsassociation@gmail.com
Biker Blues Rally — Second Annual Tilley Harley-Davidson Biker Blues BBQ Rally and Kansas City BBQ Society sanctioned cook-off, Sept. 20-22: now accepting vendor applications. See www.bikerbluesbbqrally.com under forms for more information, contact Gary Moss 704-638-6044 or info@bikerbluesbbqrally.com
27th Hickory Oktoberfest — Now accepting applications for arts and crafts vendors for Oct. 12-14 event. 10×10 booth spaces, one craftsperson per booth. Early registration postmarked by Aug. 1: $100. Regular registration through Sept. 1: $150. Applications at www.hickoryoktoberfest.com
Call for parade entries
Faith Fourth of July Parade entries — Applications now being accepted, call James, Sylvia or Pam Alexander at 704-279-2256. Deadline June 18. For Faith Idol entry information, see Call for Musicians.
Call for musicians
Faith Idol contest — Entries now being accepted for Faith Idol contest. Age categories: 12 and under, 13-18, 19 and up (adult). This event is held during the Faith Fourth of July celebration. 704-279-2256 for more information. Deadline June 18. For parade entry information, see This and That.
Bluegrass musicians — Bluegrass jam open to all, Saturdays at Dixie’s Roasting Co., 102 S. Main St., China Grove. 704-857-9169.
Art
Local art at Tastebuds — Featuring artists Rachel Lee, Sharon Forthofer, Lisa Flippin, Phyllis Stiemel, Barbara Duffy, Norma Owen, Joyce Cavanagh-Wood. Free, open to the public May-June, Monday-Friday 7 a.m.-6 p.m., Saturday 8 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Tastebuds Coffee & Tea, 106 N. Main St., 704-245-4134.
Reception tonight at Waterworks Visual Arts Center, 123 E. Liberty St. — • Rowan Salisbury’s High School Exhibition through May 12. Reception tonight, May 3, 5-6:30 p.m. Free, part of “Celebrating Rowan County’s Young Artists,” rotating exhibition showcasing artwork from Salisbury-Rowan County’s public, independent, and home-schooled students • “Multiplicity” through May 12. Artists Juie Rattley III and David Kessler, along with a group show of 20 artists from Artworks Galleryexploring multiple connections through works in multiple mediums. Waterworks Visual Arts Center, 704.636.1882, www.waterworks.org
Cabarrus Art Guildartist reception — 2-4 p.m., Sunday, May 6, the Depot at Gibson Mill, 325 McGill Ave., Suite 250, Concord. Light refreshments, awards presented.
‘Paperless’ exhibit at SECCA — Southeastern Center for Contemporary Art, 750 Marguerite Drive, Winston-Salem. 336-725-1904, www.secca.org
Mint Museum of Art, 2730 Randolph Road, Charlotte — Threads of Identity: Contemporary Maya Textiles; The Transformed Self: Performance Masks of Mexico; The Shape of Life: Contemporary Native American Ceramics; Fashionable Silhouettes — all through through Dec. 31• Celebrating Queen Charlotte’s Coronation through Oct. 28. 704-337-2000. www.mintmuseum.org
Mint Museum Uptown at Levine Center for the Arts, 500 South Tryon St., Charlotte — Surrealism and Beyond through May 13; Fairytales, Fantasy, & Fear through July 8; Colorbind: The Emily and Zach Smith Collection through Aug. 12; Matthew Weinstein through Aug. 18• 704-337-2000. www.mintmuseum.org
Reynolda House Museum of American Art, 2250 Reynolda Road, Winston-Salem — Exhibits: A Genius for Place through Aug. 5; Domestic Bliss: Art at Home in Britain and America, 1780-1840 through May 20; Modern Masters from the Smithsonian American Art Museum through Dec. 31• 336-758-5150, reynoldahouse.org
The North Carolina Pottery Center, 233 E. Ave., Seagrove — NC Student Ceramics Exhibit 1, High School: opening reception Friday, May 11, 5:30 p.m. Permanent exhibition: traces NC pottery from pre-historic Native American work through 21st century • 336-873-8430, www.ncpotterycenter.org
Trips
YMCA cruise to Hawaii — Oct. 13: Eight day/seven night cruise to Hawaii, call Louise Klaver, 704-636-0111, J.F.Hurley Family YMCA, 828 W. Jake Alexander Blvd., 704 -636-0111.
The Friends of RPL travel to see two shows — June 1-3: Barter Theatre, Abingdon, Va.: “Red Velvet Cake Wars,” southern-fried comedy; “Over the President’s Shoulder,” memoirs of White House chief butler through four presidential administrations. Plus traditional music at Carter Family Fold, dinner at Heartwood, backstage tour of the Barter. Deadline April 30. Melody Moxley 704-216-8230.
Charleston, W.Va. and Ohio Amish country — May 22-15, includes Blenko glass factory tour in W.Va. and an Amish wedding feast in Sugarcreek, Ohio. Davie County Senior Services, 336-753-6230.
Parks
Dan Nicholas Park, 6800 Bringle Ferry Rd. — Paddle boats, miniature golf, miniature trains, carousel, gem mine, playgrounds, family camping, picnic shelters, splash pad, petting zoo. 704-216-7800. www.dannicholas.net
Ellis Park, 3541 Old Mocksville Road — 26 acres of ball fields, tennis courts, volleyball court, shelters, playground, event center, walking trail. 704-216-7783.
Sloan Park, 550 Sloan Road, Mt. Ulla — Off NC Hwy 150 approximately 10 miles west of Salisbury. Features Kerr Mill, an 1823 grist mill.
Gold Hill Mines Historic Park 735 St. Stephens Church , Saturday, May 12: Gold Rush Days. 12 shops, artists, crafters, Three River Quilt guild’s “Airing of the Quilts,” authors, storytelling. 840 St. Stephen’s Church Road, Gold Hill. email goldhillmerchantsassociation@gmail.com, 704-267-9439, www.HistoricGoldHill.com
Dunn’s Mountain Nature and History Preserve, 1640 Dunn’s Mtn. Road — Trail walks, overlooks, see 120 miles in most directions, blacksmith shop display, Saturday-Sunday shuttle service, 704-216-7803.
Tweetsie Railroad, Blowing Rock — May 9, 10, 16, 17: Tweetsie Railroad transforms into the magical world of Letterland. Open Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, Memorial Day Monday. Starting June 1 open 7 days. Tweetsie.com, 877-TWEETSIE (877-893-3874).
Museums
N.C. Transportation Museum, 411 S. Salisbury Ave., Spencer — May 12: 6th annual Carolina Classic Motorcycle Show, motorcycles makes from all countries built between 1900-1992. Free, but admission rates apply to the museum • 10 a.m.-2 p.m., May 12: Thomas and Friends play date, fun filled day of Thomas and Friends activities. NOTE: Thomas will not appear • See www.nctrans.org for details, also for train ride schedule and admission information with and without train rides. 704-636-2889, 877-NCTMFUN, www.nctrans.org
Rowan Museum, 202 N. Main St. — Black History exhibit “Back in the Day.” 704-633-5946. www.rowanmuseum.org
Utzman-Chambers House, 116 S. Jackson St. — Exhibit: Artifacts of the late Honorable Spruce Macay (1755–1808). 704-633-5946.
Old Stone House, Granite Quarry —Two-story Georgian stone house completed in 1766. Old Stone House Road, Granite Quarry. $4 for adults, www.rowanmuseum.org
Dr. Josephus Hall House, 226 S. Jackson St. — 1820 house museum, costumed docents provide 704-636-0103.
Historic Rockwell Museum, 102 E. Main St. — For special tours and info call 704-279-4979.
Price of Freedom Museum, Old Patterson School building, China Grove — Sundays 3-5 p.m. and by appointment. American war memorial dedicated to men and women of the armed services. Intersection of Weaver and Patterson Roads, 704-857-7474, www.priceoffreedom.us
China Grove Roller Mill Museum — Guided tours 2-4 p.m. second Sundays. Special tours: 704-433-3912. www.hist-society-srowan.com
NC Music Hall of Fame Museum, 109 West A Street, Kannapolis — Honors musicians, singers, songwriters and producers from North Carolina. In the renovated old Kannapolis Jailhouse Building. Admission free. 704-934-2320, www.NorthCarolinaMusicHallofFame.org
Historic Gold Hill,NC/Gold Hill Mines Historic Park — 19th century living history interpretative displays reflect life in the 1800s gold mining boom town. Free. 704-279-5674, 704-267-9439, www.HistoricGoldHill. com
Reed Gold Mine historic site, 9621 Reed Mine Road, off Highway 200 near Locust — Museum, visitor center, underground mine tour, operating stamp mill, panning area. Museum is free, panning tickets $2. 704-721-4653, www.nchistoricsites.org/reed/
Fort Dobbs State Historic Site, 438 Fort Dobbs Road, Statesville — The only North Carolina Historic Site associated with the French and Indian War (1754-1763) or Seven Years War. Free, 704-873-5882, www.fortdobbs.org
Reynolda House Museum, 2250 Reynolda Road, Winston-Salem — Saturday, May 5: Community Day: A Shakespearean Pageant. Sunday, May 13: Family First Workshop• 336-758-5150, reynoldahouse.org
Historic Latta Plantation, 5225Sample Road, Huntersville — 10 a.m.-4 p.m., May 5-6: WW II reenactment. Battle each day at 2 p.m. takes place in 1945 Gemany. Demonstrations On the Front Line, On Patrol, Weapons Training, Knowing Your Enemy, POW Interrogation, Mortar Demo. Explore the grounds, visit the Allied and Axis camps, learn about the USSO in the plantation house. Admission $7, 5 and under free. World War II Veterans free. Other veterans $1 discount. Sample Road, off Beatties Ford Road in Huntersville. 704-875-2312, lattaplantation.org
Historic Rosedale Plantation, 3427 N. Tryon St., Charlotte — 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Saturday, May 12: Historic Rosedale Arts Festival featuring the Carolina’s best potters, wood turners, jewelry makers, craftsmen. historicrose dale.org
Discovery Place, Charlotte, 301 N. Tryon St., Charlotte, — Discovery Place, Charlotte, 301 N. Tryon St., Charlotte, — Where science amazes, educates and entertains: World Alive encompasses aquarium, learning labs, rainforest • Think It Up, multi-sensory world of color, light, sound, creation • Project Build, explore the design behind everything from forts to pyramids to skyscrapers • Cool Stuff, learn the why of science • Discovery 3D Theatre: glasses required to experience the latest in digital filmmaking and state-of-the-art sound • KidScience, a unique experience for age 7 and younger • 704-372-6261, www.discoveryplace.org
Discovery Place KIDS Huntersville, 105 Gilead Road — 704-372-6261, discoveryplaceKIDS.org
Charlotte Nature Museum, 1658 Sterling Road, Charlotte — May 19: Nature’s babies up close. Free with museum admission. Full schedule listing at 704-372-6261, charlottenaturemuseum.org
Charlotte Museum of History, 3500 Shamrock Drive, Charlotte — Civil War Exhibit: Liberty on the Border. 704-568-1774, www.charlottemuseum.org
Town Creek Indian Mound’s 75th anniversary, Mount Gilead — NC’s only state historic site dedicated to American Indian heritage. Town Creek Mound Road approx. five miles east of Mt. Gilead, between NC 73 and NC 731. 910-439-6802, towncreek@ncdcr.gov, www.towncreek.nchistoricsites.org
Old Salem, Winston-Salem — Faithfully preserved buildings, costumed interpreters, craftsmen, Museum of Early Southern Decorative Arts, award-winning historical garden and horticultural programs. 336-721-7300, www.oldsalem.org
NC Museum of Art, 2110 Blue Ridge Road, Raleigh —El Anatsui: When I Last Wrote to You about Africa through July 29•Rhythms of the Heart: The Illustration of Ashley Bryan through Aug. 19•Reflections: Portraits by Beverly McIver through June 24 •Presence/Absence throughMay 27•John James Audubon’s The Birds of America, ongoing. • Free general admission. Charge for some concerts, films, classes, performances. www.ncartmuseum.org
Contemporary Art Museum, 409 W. Martin St., Raleigh — Chris Bradley Close One through May 28 • José Lerma The Credentialist, coming May 19-Sept. 2• $5 general admission. 919-513-0946, camraleigh.org
NC Museum of History, 5 E. Edenton St., Raleigh — Explore more than 14,000 years of the state’s history. Free admission• At the Speed of a Girl, Celebrating 100 Years of Girl Scouting, through July 29. Across from the State Capitol. 919-807-7900, ncmuseumofhistory.org or Facebook
NC Museum of Natural Sciences, 11 W. Jones St., Raleigh —Four floors of live animals, hands-on activities, exciting programs: see the natural world through NC’s geography, prehistoric past, geology, plants, animals. 919-733-7450, www.naturalsciences.org
NC Museum of Life and Science, 433 Murray Ave., Durham — Indoors: Sit inside a real Apollo Space Capsule, explore a full-scale Lunar Lander, touch a 13-foot tornado, see more than 75 animal species of Carolina wildlife •Outdoors: Explore the Wild, a 6-acre outdoor science center expansion linking people with plants, animals, interactive exhibits. Train and ornithopter rides small add’l cost. 919-220-5429, www.ncmls.org
Children’s Museum of Winston-Salem, 390 S. Liberty St. — Climbing Lobby, Amazing Library, Build it!, Surprise Garden, Enchanted Forest, Animal Alphabet, Amazing Airways, Krispy Kreme Doughnut Factory, Food Lion Supermarket. 336-723-9111, childrensmuseumofws.org
Natural Science Center of Greensboro, 4301 Lawndale Drive — A hands-on science museum, animal discovery zoological park and a state-of-the-art OmniSphere Dome Theater, NC’s only 40 foot digital dome experience. 336-288-3769, www.natsci.org
Greensboro Children’s Museum, 220 N. Church St. — Friday, May 4: First Friday Poetry Slam • Saturday, May 5: Silly Saturday, Go Seuss Go! • Mother’s Day: Lip Balm Making and Tea Party, Thursday, May 10 • Green Acres Gala: Friday, May 18, 7-11 p.m., tickets on sale now. 336-574-2898, www.gcmuseum.com
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