Topics Related to Things to Do

A War for Empire that crossed five continents and lasted seven years is remembered at Fort Dobbs State Historic Site, the state’s only link to the French and Indian War. What can be learned about the 1756 construction, and the 50 men garrisoned at the fort? These are the lessons often left to archaeology and the recovery of materials inhabitants left behind. 
There are many ways to celebrate the Fourth of July, but none more authentic than at a state historic site that played a role in the march to independence for the American colony. Roanoke Island, Historic Halifax, Historic Edenton and Tryon Palace all were part of the creation of this nation and will celebrate with history, fireworks, music or a reading of the Declaration of Independence. 
First Lady Kristin Cooper will welcome visitors to the Governor’s Western Residence, 45 Patton Mountain Rd, Asheville, for an open house Sunday, July 1, from 2-4 p.m.
 
Reservations are not needed to attend the open house. Mrs. Cooper will greet guests inside the residence. For more information, please call (828) 225-0122.  
 
Duke Homestead celebrates North Carolina’s food history and culture July 14 at “Pork, Pickles and Peanuts: Tastes of North Carolina.” This free, fun family event focuses on everything that makes the state taste great with the highly competitive and extremely tasty annual Barbecue Cook-Off and Pie Competition from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Music and melon will accent the Old-Fashioned July 4 Ice Cream Social celebration at Mountain Gateway Museum (MGM). Red watermelon, white vanilla ice cream and bluegrass music are a formula for a fun-filled, family friendly free celebration Wednesday, July 4, 2 to 4 p.m. – or until the food runs out.
Find a fun-filled celebration with history, music and nature for the Fourth of July! Enjoy authentic experiences at attractions of the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources this year.
 
Experience the zeal of some early supporters of the American Revolution at a state historic site, or the calm of a quite walk through the woods at a state park. There will be a special thrill to the high-spirited patriotic July 4 performance of the North Carolina Symphony, and other performances as well.
 
The art of barbecuing has evolved in the Americas as explorers, pirates and even Sir Walter Raleigh discovered the natives outdoor cooking technique. Residents of Bath and environs can test their grill skills during the free BBQ Fest, Saturday, June 16, 10 a.m. The time-honored tradition of beer also will be recognized with a beer garden featuring domestic and craft beer and wine that opens at noon.
Genealogy research is a complex subject that involves finding the right resources, keen detective work, and enduring patience.
The deep-water robotic investigation of an unidentified shipwreck off the North Carolina coast will be shown live to guests at the NC Aquarium on Roanoke Island on June 25. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) will conduct the dive 40 miles off the coast of Hatteras Island via a robotic submersible launched from the research vessel Okeanos Explorer.
North Carolina law in the 1750s required able-bodied men ages 16-60 to serve in the colony’s militia. They gathered for military training several times a year and could be called away at any time, leaving their homes and businesses to defend the colony. Fort Dobbs State Historic Site will feature living history interpreters recreating an 18th century militia muster June 30-July 1.