Part of our North Carolina guide.
North Carolina’s events and seasons offer a summer soundtrack of cicadas, an October barbecue festival in Lexington, and a year-round historic park on Roanoke Island. Each provides a distinct way to experience the state’s character.
Related travel guides: 30 Must Visit Places In Goldsboro, Secrets In North Carolina, 10 Must-Try Churrascarias In Sao Paulo That Will Surprise You, Beaches In North Carolina, Family Travel In North Carolina, and Where To Stay In North Carolina.
Summer Symphony
From hidden groves to popular parks, cicadas create a unique soundtrack that defines the season. Finding the perfect place to enjoy their symphony can make your summer evenings magical. Let’s explore some of the best locations to hear these fascinating creatures.
Savor The Flavor At Lexington's Barbecue Festival
Lexington, North Carolina, known as the Barbecue Capital of the World, hosts an annual Barbecue Festival every October. The festival features Lexington-style barbecue: pork shoulder slow-cooked over hickory wood and seasoned with a tangy vinegar-based sauce. Beyond the food, the event offers live music, arts and crafts, and activities for all ages. For more ways to explore the state, check out our coverage of trading secrets in North Carolina and Lake secrets in North Carolina.
Step Back In Time At Roanoke Island Festival Park
Roanoke Island Festival Park is a 25-acre historic site that lets visitors experience the 16th century through interactive exhibits and live demonstrations. You can explore a replica of the Elizabeth II, a ship similar to those that brought the first English colonists to the New World. Walk through the Settlement Site to see how these pioneers lived, worked, and survived. The park also features an American Indian Town, showcasing the culture and traditions of the native Algonquian people. For those interested in more coastal offerings, the site is also a great starting point for discovering beaches in North Carolina and hiking and the outdoors in North Carolina.
