China Grove

Legend has it that the Town of China Grove was named for a stand of chinaberry trees that were a landmark used by indigenous people. For us, China Grove is known for the famous Gary’s BBQ, Cherry Treesort, the annual Farmers Day celebration and street fair, their downtown farmer’s market, the historic China Grove Roller Mill, the Southern Rowan Christmas Parade, and a guaranteed chance of snow during their annual Christmas in the Grove! China Grove is also home to Gary Chapman, who you may know better as the author of “The Five Love Languages” series. You’ll find unique shopping, dining and year round experiences in China Grove, N.C. Learn more about these events and attractions below and begin planning your next visit to China Grove in Rowan County, NC!

Gary’s BBQ:

For more than 50 years, Gary’s BBQ has been serving Rowan County’s famous barbeque. The restaurant is located in an old Gulf station (though they’ve added on many times) on Highway 29 in China Grove. They specialize in North Carolina vinegar based barbeque, but they’ve got hamburgers, hotdogs, BLTs and everything else you’d expect at an old fashion BBQ spot. You’ll want to take some extra time to look at Gary’s nostalgic décor - they even have vintage cars!

Cherry Treesort:

Ever stayed in a mini house up in the trees or under ground in a hobbit house? Well you can at Cherry Treesort, China Grove's very own tree house resort. Their business started by accident when owner, Trent Cherry, built an epic treehouse for his son on their family farm. Each of their tree houses and hobbit houses have all modern conveniences of home, running water, comfy beds, refrigerators and more. Gather around the fire pit, swing in the trees and enjoy walks around the secluded property. We promise it will be like nothing you've ever experienced.

Farmers Day:

Farmers Day is a Rowan County original tradition that we’ve been celebrating for more than 40 years! The event was organized to honor local farmers and allow them to sell their produce and enjoy a day of fun with food, crafts and music. Farmers Day has since grown to become one of the best street festivals in North Carolina drawing thousands to the colorful booths lining Main Street with a variety of arts and craft items, local farmers selling produce, honey and other locally made goods, agricultural and antique tractor displays, dancing in the streets to live music, the aromas of fresh food, the flavors of homemade ice cream, children’s activities, fireworks, and so much more! Farmers Day is held each summer on the third Saturday of July.

Main Street Marketplace & Meeting Place:

Main Street Marketplace & Meeting Place is a vibrant community market in China Grove dedicated to providing healthy foods at equitable prices. Shaped by community input, the market offers fresh produce, local meats, and staple grocery items on a tier-based pricing system to ensure that all neighbors can access nutritious foods. Shoppers can save up to 40% on groceries while supporting more than 45 local farmers and small businesses. Main Street Marketplace not only strengthens the local food system but also creates new jobs and fosters a welcoming, dignified space for all.

China Grove Roller Mill:

The China Grove Roller Mill draws visitors from throughout the area. It is now operated by the historical Society of South Rowan as a museum, but the mill used to grind corn and wheat into meal and flour. It fed local households, supported local farmers, and served as a meeting place for the agricultural community for well over a century. Farmers used to come to the mill to sell their grain for flour and corn meal production, to purchase farm necessities and to socialize. When visitors enter the mill, they are transported to an earlier time. Tours are available on select dates and times.

Southern Rowan Christmas Parade:

The Southern Rowan Christmas parade has traveled down the main streets of Landis and China Grove in southern Rowan County for more than 40 years. The parade is a staple of the holiday season in Rowan County and surrounding areas. You’ll find antique trucks and tractors, cheerleaders, homecoming queens and kings from local high schools, dance troupes and politicians. It is also customary for Little Mr. and Miss Farmer from the Farmers Day pageant be in the procession, and as always, Santa will bring up the end of the parade!

Christmas in the Grove:

The Town of China Grove truly embraces the holiday spirit! Christmas in the Grove is a beloved annual celebration held on the first Saturday in December in Downtown China Grove. The event begins with a festive Christmas tree lighting ceremony that sets the tone for a magical evening. Enjoy local shopping, delicious food, roasting s'mores, and so much more. Santa makes a special trip from the North Pole, warm hot chocolate is served, and cheerful carols fill the air - bringing the whole community together to kick off the holiday season!

Plan Your Visit to China Grove, NC

Things to do in China Grove, NC