Ready to map out an unforgettable 2026? Rowan County is gearing up for another year filled with signature festivals, vibrant community traditions, live music, delicious food, and celebrations that highlight the best of our region. From cozy winter strolls with a glass of wine in hand to summer days by the lake and crisp fall weekends filled with history and heritage, there’s an event for every style of traveler.

Use this guide to plan your year - and don’t forget to check out our Stay & Play Packages for extra savings and free event admission opportunities throughout 2026!

 

Band playing at outdoor festivalPhoto by Earth Day Jam on Facebook.

Wine About Winter | February 6

Back to Top of List

Downtown Salisbury, N.C.

Sip and stroll through Downtown Salisbury during this cozy winter event featuring wine tastings at various downtown shops. Enjoy browsing shops and boutiques as you warm up with each sample. This popular event is the perfect way to beat the February chill! Find out more about the annual Wine About Winter event here.

Earth Day Jam | April 18

Back to Top of List

Bell Tower Green, Salisbury, N.C.

A free music and arts, farm-to-festival and educational Earth Day celebration, at Downtown Salisbury's Bell Tower Green, benefitting local nonprofit Happy Roots school and community gardens programs. Find out more about the annual Earth Day Jam event here.

Cheerwine Festival | May 16

Back to Top of List

Downtown Salisbury, N.C.

Celebrate Salisbury's iconic hometown soda with live music, delicious Cheerwine-inspired treats and artisan vendors. It’s a sweet day for the whole family with activities spread throughout Downtown Salisbury. Find out more about the annual Cheerwine Festival here.

Farmers Day Festival | July 17 & 18

Back to Top of List

Downtown China Grove, N.C.

Join the friendly town of China Grove for their annual Farmers Day Festival! This event features craft vendors, live music, food trucks, kids' activities and a parade celebrating Rowan County’s farming heritage. Find out more about the annual Farmers Day Festival here.

Woodleaf Tomato Festival | August 15

Back to Top of List

Unity Presbyterian Church Parking Lot, Woodleaf, N.C.

This down-home celebration of Rowan County’s agricultural heritage in Woodleaf offers a day full of tomato-themed fun! Expect live entertainment, delicious tomato sandwhiches, and, of course, lots of fresh tomatoes to take home. Find out more about the annual Woodleaf Tomato Festival here.

Dragon Boat Festival | August 22

Back to Top of List

Shriners Club at High Rock Lake, Salisbury, N.C.

Experience one of Rowan County’s most exciting summer traditions as teams race across High Rock Lake in colorful, drummer-led dragon boats. Enjoy a full day by the water with live entertainment, food trucks, vendors, and plenty of spectator fun. Find out more about the annual Dragon Boat Festival here.

Gold Hill Founders Day | September 26

Back to Top of List

Historic Gold Hill Village, Gold Hill, N.C.

Step back in history with a day of live music, a parade and local vendors in the charming village of Gold Hill. This annual festival highlights the rich mining history of Rowan County. Find out more about the annual Founders Day Festival here.

Busker's Bash | October 2

Back to Top of List

Downtown Salisbury, N.C.

Spend an evening downtown enjoying live music and performances by talented street performers. Stroll through the streets, vote for your favorite acts and soak up the electric atmosphere of our enjoyable downtown. Find out more about the annual Busker's Bash event here.

Bell Tower BREWFEST | October 3

Back to Top of List

Bell Tower Green, Salisbury, N.C.

Craft beer lovers, rejoice! This event features tastings from local breweries, live entertainment and a lively atmosphere at the Bell Tower Green in the heart of Salisbury. Find out more about the annual Bell Tower BREWFEST here.

Autumn Jubilee | October 3 & 4

Back to Top of List

Dan Nicholas Park, Salisbury, N.C.

This fall tradition at Dan Nicholas Park features live music, craft vendors, actitivities for kids and families and delicious festival food. Families will enjoy fun activities set against the gorgeous autumn backdrop. Find out more about the annual Autumn Jubilee event here.

OctoberTour | October 10 & 11

Back to Top of List

Historic Salisbury, N.C.

Take a step back in time during this annual event showcasing historic homes in Salisbury. Tour stunning private residences, learn about the town's architecture and immerse yourself in our area’s rich history. Find out more about the annual OctoberTour here.

Plan Your Visit to Rowan County 2026 Events

Planning to visit Rowan County for one or more of these original events? Keep an eye on our Special Offers page as we announce opportunities for you to earn free event tickets throughout the year with our Stay & Play Packages! And don't forget about our VISA Cash Rewards Package which earns you 50% of your hotel stay back in VISA e-Gift Card Rewards!

 

Start planning now for an unforgettable 2026 in Rowan County - and follow along on our blog as we share guides and updates for each event throughout the year.

 

#VisitRowanCountyNC