It may not be the official start of summer on the calendar, but Memorial Day Weekend symbolizes the unofficial beginning of summer for many of us. Thoughts of warm days, temperate nights, and outdoor activities beckon us to embrace the burgeoning warmth that spring began and get outdoors. This Memorial Day weekend, immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the North Carolina foothills! Come celebrate the season that brings forth the best Mother Nature has to offer.

Events and Happenings

If you’re looking for a wide variety of activities and entertainment on-site, Rumbling Bald Resort is the place to be. Their Memorial Day Weekend Festivities include everything from their Red, White, & Blue Golf Tournament, to a Trout Stream Pool Party, and even a Beachside Marshmallow Roast.

When your holiday weekend needs some “horsing around” don’t miss Cedar Creek Stables’ Summer 2021 Kickoff! Hot dogs, live music, and family-style fun will be in ample supply. You can even book a trail ride, private ride, or a pony ride for the little ones to enjoy while you’re there.

If exploring the beauty of nature in early summer through the eyes of a photo lens is your idea of a perfect Memorial Day weekend outing, come out to Chimney Rock State Park and enter their Buds & Blooms photo contest! There’s no fee to enter, and the winning photos will be featured on the park’s website and social media. While you’re there scouting the perfect shot, be sure to enjoy the many trails and views that this incredible state park has to offer.

Need to kick back with a little music? If chilling with a glass of incredible wine while partaking of spectacular views and listening to live music sounds like the perfect holiday weekend activity, head on over to Burntshirt Vineyards in Chimney Rock Village. They’ll be hosting live music on the patio all weekend. Pair that with their fabulous tapas, incredible views, and sumptuous wine selection, and you may just have found your most melodious weekend spot ever.

If a local shopping excursion that gives back is your idea of perfect, then don’t miss this year’s Craft Show & Community Yard Sale at Grace Church in Rutherfordton. The event will be held Friday, May 28th and Saturday, May 29th, and all proceeds will be donated to the Hearts for Lebanon ministry that supports refugees of war.

When your ideal holiday weekend includes your furry, four-legged companion, the place to be is 4 Paws Kingdom and Campground. This Memorial Day weekend they'll be hosting festivities that include campfire meet & greets, agility training, live music, and even a grill out that's delivered straight to your campsite. 

Memorial Day may be a time of festivities, but it’s also a day to pay our respects to the men and women who have sacrificed their lives in service to our country. The town of Lake Lure will be holding a memorial service on Monday, May 31st at 9 am. Join them for this time to honor and commemorate our military service members who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom.

Make a Weekend of It!

Want to make your Memorial Day more than a simple day trip? Rutherford county has more options for lodging and camping than you can imagine. From mountainside cabins and lakeside cottages to historic hotels and inns, amenity-filled resorts, and scenic campgrounds with yurts; there's no end to the possibilities. Pair that with the fact that our charming towns are mere minutes from each other, and there's really no way to go wrong.

No matter where you find your ideal home base, the options for activities will be endless. Rent a bike and take a leisurely ride along the Thermal Belt Rail Trail, immerse yourself in the glory of nature hiking one of the county’s beautiful trails, or get a bird's eye view of Hickory Nut Gorge from an exciting zipline. There are even multitudes of options for thrilling water activities and boat rentals. Then kick back and indulge in local cuisine with a swoon-worthy view, or relax on a picture-perfect picnic of your own making.

However you plan your holiday weekend outing, the warm and welcoming towns of Rutherford County have you covered. Make this Memorial Day weekend a memorable one! We look forward to seeing you here soon!