Programming note: Our newsletter guy Billy Ball is still out of the office on vacation. Below you’ll find a bunch of fun things to do during the long holiday weekend, and, of course, North Carolina news you need to know. Happy Fourth of July, NC! 🇺🇸
The only thing brighter than the stars in the mountain sky are Asheville’s July 4th fireworks. (Photo by Bruce Edelstein)
By Brook Bolen
The Fourth of July is always a cause for celebration, and the fact that the country is turning 250 this year makes it even more noteworthy. Celebrations throughout the Tar Heel state will mark the 250th—or semiquincentennial, for you logophiles—anniversary of the signing of the US Declaration of Independence.
While there is no shortage of summer concerts and festivals in North Carolina, its plans to celebrate July 4th are even bigger and more dazzling than usual. From the mountains to the coast, there are ample fun opportunities to enjoy this momentous occasion.
North Carolina offers a number of places (such as Lake Wheeler) for beginners to kayak and canoe. (Shutterstock/Wileydoc)
By Brook Bolen
With lush vegetation and brilliant, sunny skies, summer in North Carolina is a beautiful thing. And while road trips are a fantastic way to explore our state, there’s something magical about the view from a kayak or canoe—not to mention how fun it can be. Want to beat the heat while you take in the scenery? Try your hand at these 10 kayaking and canoeing spots in NC that are perfect for beginners.
Click here to watch our new video. (Graphic by Kelly Lennon/COURIER Newsroom)
Is North Carolina getting a break this hurricane season? We sure hope so.
In this new episode of Billy Ball Explains NC, we talk about why the NOAA predicts a less active hurricane season for the Atlantic (spoiler: It’s because El Niño is back like a ’90s trend).
Southern Living readers have ranked the best beaches in the South, and nine North Carolina beaches were all over the list. The highest ranked from our great state? Wrightsville Beach. As the authors write: “This quaint village has upscale stores and restaurants (many on the water), beautifully preserved historic homes, and a stunning coastline that’s popular for surfing.
