Topics Related to Things to Do

Spying is sometimes known as the world’s second oldest profession. Nineteenth century notions about a woman’s place and capabilities set the stage for hundreds of women to become spies during the American Civil War. “Beautiful Deception” is an exhibit at the CSS Neuse Civil War Interpretive Center through January 2020 about some fabled Civil War era spies.

A special weekend celebrating the talent, legacy, and spirit of legendary North Carolina musician Nina Simone is scheduled Aug.

Take a break from the backyard barbecues and beach volleyball to savor history and nature this July 4 weekend. 
 

Most able-bodied men were required by North Carolina law to serve in the colony’s militia in the 1750s. They gathered several times a year for military training and could be called away at any time, leaving homes and businesses to defend the colony. Fort Dobbs State Historic Site will feature living history interpreters recreating an 18th century militia muster June 29.

See the magic and skill as fabric, tools or toys take shape at the “Saturday on the Farm” program June 22, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., at Governor Aycock Birthplace State Historic Site. The free event will showcase blacksmithing, woodworking and spinning talents and will celebrate 19th century North Carolina farm life. Music will be performed by the Waterbound Dulcimers in the morning.

Meet the rising generation of North Carolina’s traditional artists in a collection of documentary portraits in the exhibition "New Faces of Tradition: Documenting North Carolina’s Young Artists," May 28 to June 30 at the Rubenstein Arts Center at Duke University.

A new multi-use trail system will open Saturday, May 4 at Carvers Creek State Park’s Sandhills access in Cumberland County. The trails will allow hikers, cyclists, and equestrians to explore the park, which opened to the public in 2013. 

Gold mining at Reed Gold Mine was in its heyday in the 1850s -- before the California gold rush -- when for gold mining North Carolina was the place to be. In 1799, young Conrad Reed discovered a 17-pound gold nugget while fishing in Little Meadow Creek, giving rise to America’s first gold rush.

Become an 18th century naturalist like John and William Bartram! This father/son duo visited the area in the 1760s and documented the unique environment of southeastern North Carolina. 

The North Carolina Arts Council and partners in Rocky Mount and Goldsboro will present free concerts that celebrate Eastern North Carolina’s rich African American musical heritage this spring.