Looking to make the most of 2025? Start planning your year with Rowan County's incredible lineup of festivals and events! Whether you're a foodie, an art enthusiast or just love experiencing vibrant community celebrations, there's something for everyone here. From celebrating our own iconic soda, Cheerwine, in May to exploring historic homes on a crisp October day, each event is a unique celebration of Rowan County’s charm. Get your calendars ready as we highlight some of the can’t-miss experiences in our area this year—plus, don’t forget to snag your Stay & Play Package for even more affordable fun!

Wine About Winter | February 7

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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 this year's Wine About Winter event here.

Earth Day Jam | April 12

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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 this year's Earth Day Jam here.

Jiggy with the Piggy | May 1 - 4

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Downtown Kannapolis, N.C.

A barbecue lover’s dream! This multi-day festival in Kannapolis brings together award-winning BBQ teams, live entertainment and family-friendly activities. Don't miss the People's Choice tasting event where you can sample some of the best BBQ around. Find out more about this year's Jiggy with the Piggy event here.

Cheerwine Festival | May 17

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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 this year's Cheerwine Festival here.

Farmers Day Festival | July 19

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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 this year's Farmers Day Festival here.

Woodleaf Tomato Festival | August 16

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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 this year's Woodleaf Tomato Festival here.

Gold Hill Founders Day | September 27

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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 this year's Founders Day Festival here.

Busker's Bash | October 3

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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 this year's Busker's Bash here.

Autumn Jubilee | October 4

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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 this year's Autumn Jubilee here.

Bell Tower BREWFEST | October 4

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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 this year's Bell Tower BREWFEST here.

OctoberTour | October 11 & 12

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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 this year's OctoberTour here.

 

Plan Your Visit

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!

 

 

Start planning now to make 2025 your most exciting year yet in Rowan County! Keep an eye on our blog page as we release guides to each major event throughout the year.

 

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