Hello, Gaston! It’s Thursday, you know what that means.

March is almost here, and it looks like business is about to pick up here in Gaston County.

We’re overdue. February has been fairly quiet—but that’s okay. No one expects much from February.

But March? That’s a different story. It rolls in this weekend, and a week later, we get daylight savings time. It’s the one time of year that I’ll happily trade an hour of sleep for a little more sunshine in the evening.

I used to dread January and February—nothing happening, just a long, dull stretch of winter. But then March would roll in, and like clockwork, the sun and the action seemed to follow. (I’m partially looking at you, college basketball!)

I don’t dread any months of the year anymore. I may get mildly annoyed with July and August, but like any Carolina weather pattern, nothing lasts forever.

And those 70-degree days we just had? That’s a bonus. Unexpected and amazing. The best part of all? No grass to cut. Again—February asks for nothing.

But March? I have expectations. All 31 days of you. Let the madness begin.

Thanks for reading!

Ben

P.S. If you enjoyed this week’s newsletter, please pass it along to someone who you’d think would enjoy it!

GASTON NTK (NEED TO KNOW)

🛍️ BELK OUTLET COMING TO EASTRIDGE MALL

Big news for Gastonia shoppers! Belk is opening an outlet store at Eastridge Mall this spring, featuring designer brands at discounted prices. The first floor becomes an outlet, while the second level remains a traditional store. This will be Belk’s third NC outlet.

✨ CHARLOTTEAN FALLS FOR DOWNTOWN GASTONIA’S CHARM 

Charlottean Page Leggett had a change of heart about Gastonia after visiting downtown for the first time. She raved about Barristers at The Esquire Hotel, The Rooster’s top-notch music scene, and Gastonia’s charming, history-rich vibe. Read her full take on why she now sees Gastonia in a whole new light!

🏡 STRONG LIKE AK HOUSE GRAND OPENING

The grand opening of the Strong Like AK House will feature two events: a ribbon cutting with the Gaston Business Association on Thursday, March 6, from 5 - 7 p.m., and a casual open house on Saturday, March 8, from 11 a.m. -3 p.m. The house will offer free housing for families traveling to Levine Children's Hospital for pediatric cancer care. Parking is available at the Mount Holly Swim & Racquet Club, with light refreshments provided.

🍔 GASTON'S BEST BURGER: THE RESULTS ARE IN

After an epic burger journey (and gaining eight pounds in the process!) local foodie, Michael Goins, has anointed Bolton’s Curbside Cookery as the best burger in Gaston County with a 9.3 rating. Other top contenders include Shake Shop, Hillbilly’s, and Bob McDonald’s. His next quest - find the best wings in Gaston County!

☕ ARBOR COFFEE NOW OPEN AT LORAY MILL

Great news, Gastonia! Arbor Coffee is officially open inside Loray Mill! Swing by weekdays from 6 a.m. to 4 p.m. for expertly crafted coffee to jumpstart your day. Whether you're on your way to work or need an afternoon pick-me-up, they've got you covered!

📍 NEW LOCATOR MAP FOR CRAMERTON VETERANS MEMORIAL

The Cramerton Historical Society created an honoree’s list and locator map for the Veterans Memorial and requested a QR code for easy access. Located in Centennial Center, the memorial honors veterans with a bronze statue, an Honor Wall, and five military pillars, also sharing the story of Cramerton Khaki and the town’s war efforts.

🥢 THAI TABLE NOW OPEN IN GASTONIA

Thai Table officially opened yesterday at 4008 E. Franklin Blvd in Gastonia—right by Monster Mini Golf! Stop by to enjoy bold, authentic Thai flavors, from savory curries to fresh stir-fries.

📰  QUICK BITES

• Enjoy free music streaming and downloads from Freegal by using your Gaston County Public Library card.

• Cool Beans Cat Cafe is moving down the street. They will be reopening on March 1 at 176 S. Chester Street in Downtown Gastonia.

• The South Fork Run Club kicks off March 12. Enjoy scenic weekly runs, great company, and post-run drink specials at Confluence.

THE FOUR-DAY FORECAST

GO-SEE-DO GASTON (this week)

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 27

Pirate Night
📍The Schiele Museum in Gastonia
⏰6 - 7 p.m.
Set sail for adventure with pirate-themed STEAM stations for K-5th graders! Navigate rough seas, tackle hands-on challenges, and uncover hidden treasure in this fun-filled night of learning and discovery. More Details.

Trivia Night at Cavendish
📍Cavendish in Gastonia
⏰7 p.m.
Enjoy a fun-filled evening of brain-teasing questions. Gather your team, grab a pint, and show off your smarts. Free to play.  More Details.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 28

Trip to the Tropics
📍Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden in Belmont
📆 February 28 - March 2
⏰times vary
This two-weekend celebration at the Williamson Conservator features lush greenery, forest bathing, mindfulness, live music, orchid workshops, guided tours, and Sip & Stroll evenings with tropical cocktails. More Details.

Friday Night Live Music featuring Brut Beat and the Menders
📍Confluence South Fork in Cramerton
⏰7 - 9 p.m.
Bring your friends, family, or a date to enjoy an evening of incredible performances by talented artists. More Details.

SATURDAY, MARCH 1

Cars and Coffee in the Park
📍Martha River's Park in Gastonia
⏰8 - 11 a.m.
Rev up for a day of fun and admiration! Bring your pride and joy to showcase or admire incredible rides at this car enthusiasts' gathering. More Details.        

Main Street Social - One Year Anniversary Bash
📍118 S Main Street in Stanley
⏰5 p.m.
Join the celebration for a special one-year anniversary event! Guests can enjoy live music from the Ben Gatlin Trio while savoring delicious food from King of Fire Pizza and Just Dessertz. More Details.

Misfit Market
📍The Rooster in Gastonia
⏰11 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Discover handcrafted oddities, art, and collectibles at this makers market. Join the growing Misfit community—where everyone is welcome! More Details.    

Ride and Seek Cycling Adventure Race
📍Whitewater in Charlotte
⏰8 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Race through the trails in teams of two, collecting points and making it back to HQ first! Navigate to mapped checkpoints for 10 points or hunt down mystery checkpoints for 15. Expect a mix of strategy, competition, lighthearted games, and serious mileage. More Details.

Keepsake Brewery’s 1st Rodeo
📍211 Columbia Street in Gastonia
⏰12 - 9 p.m.
Saddle up for a big birthday bash! Enjoy live music from The Loose Lugnuts, food from Whole Hog BBQ and limited-edition anniversary steins (while supplies last). Dust off your cowboy hat and join the fun! More Details.

Shamrock Shuffle 5K and Leprechaun Leap 2K
📍Ida Rankin Elementary in Mount Holly
⏰8:15 a.m.
Support the Mount Holly Middle School PTO and Ida Rankin PTA while sporting your best St. Patrick’s Day attire—or just come as you are. Run, walk, or shuffle—every step helps local students. More Details.

Trailhead Store Birthday Party
📍Trailhead Store at Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden in Belmont
⏰12 - 4 p.m.
Celebrate one year of the Trailhead Store with live music, tasty treats, and great company! Enjoy Pickin’ on the Porch with Nathan Dowdy and Michael York, plus carnival treats from Carolina Concessions, drink discounts, and more. More Details.

SUNDAY, MARCH 2

Dr. Seuss Birthday Party
📍Belmont Bookshop in Belmont
⏰11 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Celebrate Dr. Seuss's Birthday with crafts, storytime, and silly rhymes. Then, join the Cat in the Hat for a lively walking parade through Stowe Park in Downtown Belmont.  More Details.

MONDAY, MARCH 3

Lift Your Spirit Film Series featuring White Bird
📍Gaston County Public Library (1555 East Garrison Boulevard) in Gastonia
⏰6 - 8 p.m.
Join us for a free showing of White Bird! Experience the powerful story of Julian's grandmother, Grandmère, as she recalls her childhood in Nazi-occupied France. This film stars Gillian Anderson, Helen Mirren, and Bryce Gheisar. More Details.

THURSDAY, MARCH 6

Downtown Gastonia Caffeine and Conversation
📍Cavendish Brewing Company in Gastonia
⏰10:30 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Connect with local business leaders, residents, and public servants over coffee in downtown Gastonia. Engage in dynamic discussions, network, and share ideas to help shape the community. More Details.

PLAN AHEAD

The United Way of Gaston County presents Purse Power
📍Gaston Country Club in Gastonia
📆 Thursday, March 27
⏰5 - 9 p.m.
Enjoy a stylish ladies' night fundraiser featuring designer purse raffles and silent auctions. All proceeds support Dolly Parton's Imagination Library and early childhood literacy initiatives. More Details.

Disclaimer: Event details are subject to change or cancellation. Please check with the event organizers for the most up-to-date information. We are not responsible for any changes after publication.

#GASTONGRAM

SEE YA LATER, GASTON!

And thank you for reading! If you found something useful, please share it with a friend!

Was this email forwarded to you? Signup here!

Was there something I missed this week? Let me know at [email protected]. Want to get your business in Hello, Gaston!? Let’s talk!