LIFESTYLE - Cardinal & Pine

Jan 2026 15

Get a sneak peek of NC’s best spring & summer festivals

By Britteny Dee | THINGS TO DO, EVERGREEN, Britteny Dee

Mark your calendars for these can’t-miss spring and summer 2026 festivals in North Carolina.

Whether you’re into music, craft beer, barbecue, or the great outdoors, there is a festival in North Carolina for you.

Jan 2026 13

8 highly anticipated NC restaurants opening in 2026

By Britteny Dee | FOOD AND DRINK, COMMUNITY, Britteny Dee

New year, new restaurants! From barbecue joints to sushi spots, discover the most exciting North Carolina restaurant openings of 2026.

Jan 2026 7

Dry January: The top 17 mocktail spots in Charlotte

By Britteny Dee | FOOD AND DRINK, COMMUNITY, Britteny Dee

From alcohol-free twists on classic cocktails to innovative, zero-proof drinks starring specialty ingredients, discover the best mocktails in Charlotte.

Charlotte has fully embraced the growing mocktail trend, and there are plenty of bars and restaurants in the Queen City that are stirring up delicious alcohol-free alternatives.

Jan 2026 6

The bountiful benefit of winter gardening in North Carolina

By Tyler Francischine | THINGS TO DO, EVERGREEN, Tyler Francischine

Winter gardening in North Carolina can produce bountiful results with a few considerations.

Dec 2025 24

Check out the best New Year’s fireworks shows in NC, broken down by region

By Dorothy Scott | THINGS TO DO, COMMUNITY, Dorothy Scott

Check out these great fireworks shows, ranging from free to bougie, in each of North Carolina’s three geographical regions to end 2025 with a bang.

These are the best fireworks shows that North Carolina has to offer and breaking them down by region.

Dec 2025 23

Nearly 1 million in NC to see health premiums skyrocket in 2026

By Public News Service | HEALTHCARE, COMMUNITY, Public News Service

Health insurance costs are set to rise in 2026 for many North Carolinians, after Congress decided not to vote on extending Affordable Care Act insurance tax credits, which were cut in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act and expire at the end of the year.