Hello, Gaston! (my old friend),

December felt like a whirlwind—two months packed into one. And now, here we are in January, a month that somehow feels 45 days long.

Time really does fly when you’re having fun (or just busy). So, what now?

It’s time to ease back into routines—morning alarms, regular bedtimes, and whatever else keeps life ticking. After the holiday chaos, I’m looking forward to quiet, laid-back days. A chance to catch my breath.

We’re only one day in, but I hope your year is off to a fantastic start. Thanks for making this newsletter part of your weekly rhythm! Here’s to a great year ahead!

Ben

P.S. Thanks for reading! If you enjoyed this week’s newsletter, please pass it along to someone who's already broken their New Year’s resolutions.

GASTON NTK (NEED TO KNOW)

KEEPSAKE BREWERY NAMED ONE OF THE BEST NEW BREWERIES OF 2024

Keepsake Brewery in Gastonia has been recognized as one of the best new breweries of 2024 according to VinePair. Known for high-quality lagers and a minimalist taproom, it’s quickly gaining attention for its craftsmanship. Founded by Bobby Myers, the brewery offers a welcoming atmosphere and unique experience for beer lovers.

WIN A COZY WINTER STAYCATION – ENTER NOW!

Win a serene winter getaway in your backyard! Enter the Blue Ridge Outdoors Winter Getaway Giveaway for a 2-night trip for two. The prize includes hotel accommodations, Schiele Museum tickets, a $100 winery gift card, and $200 for local dining. Deadline to enter is 1/16/25. Enter here.

GINZA BUFFET NOW OPEN IN GASTONIA – ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT SUSHI & MORE!

Ginza Buffet is now open in Gastonia at 212 S New Hope Rd, in the same shopping center as Planet Fitness. Enjoy all-you-can-eat sushi, seafood, and more, including their popular all-you-can-eat crab legs for $18. Early reviews are great!

GLIDE INTO WINTER FUN: 6 OUTDOOR ICE RINKS AROUND CHARLOTTE

Looking for some winter fun? The Charlotte area boasts six outdoor ice skating rinks this season, including the new Union County Ice Rink in Indian Trail. With locations in Charlotte, Huntersville, and Rock Hill, SC, these rinks are open through January or February. Charlotte on the Cheap previews them all here!

RED BRIDGES BBQ SHINES ON BEHIND THE FOOD TV

Red Bridges Barbecue Lodge in Shelby was recently featured in a Behind the Food TV video, celebrating its nearly 80-year tradition of wood-cooked barbecue, ketchup-based red slaw, and scratch-made hush puppies. The video highlights the women who carry on this legacy with resilience and a passion for authentic Shelby-style BBQ.

MR. 3’S CRABPOT SAYS FAREWELL TO GASTONIA

After six years in Gastonia, Mr. 3’s Crabpot Bar & Grill on Ozark Avenue has closed. Located in the former Fat Cat’s spot, the owner cites time constraints with multiple businesses. Fans will now need to visit their Charlotte location. 

KICK OFF THE NEW YEAR WITH THE GASTON'S GREAT PODCAST!

Start 2025 on a high note with the Gaston's Great Podcast, brought to you by GSM Services and hosted by Steven Long. In this special New Year’s Day episode, hear local heroes, nonprofits, and community leaders share why Gaston County is such a great place. 

THE FOUR-DAY FORECAST

GO-SEE-DO GASTON (this week)

THURSDAY, JANUARY 2

Winterfest at Carowinds
📍14523 Carowinds Boulevard in Charlotte
📆 Now through 1/4/25
⏰5 - 10 p.m.
This is the last weekend to enjoy dazzling lights, ice skating, festive entertainment, family fun, and holiday treats. More Details.                             

FRIDAY, JANUARY 3

Music Under the Stars presents Pink Floyd
📍The Schiele Museum in Gastonia 1/4/2025
📆 Friday (1/3) and Saturday (1/4)
⏰Two shows each night (5:30 and 8:30 p.m.)
Love Pink Floyd? Experience their music live with The Album Series band under the immersive planetarium dome. Enjoy Animals and Wish You Were Here with psychedelic 360° graphics for a one-of-a-kind concert! More Details. 

The Chutes at Crowders Camps
📍 Crowders Camps in Gastonia
📆 Now through 3/1/25
⏰6 - 9 p.m. (Fridays & Saturdays only)
Snowless winter tubing returns with three 200-foot lanes of excitement! Proceeds support kids' summer camp adventures. More Details.                           

SATURDAY, JANUARY 4

Birding Walks
📍Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden in Belmont
⏰11 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Led by avid birder Gail Ice, explore diverse avian life on garden trails. Perfect for seasoned birders or beginners—enjoy a fun, educational outdoor adventure! More Details.

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.

January 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.                         

SUNDAY, JANUARY 5

Carolina Panthers (4-11) at Atlanta Falcons (8-7)
📍Away
⏰1 p.m. (CBS)
The Panthers face the Falcons in their season finale as underdogs. Atlanta, chasing playoff hopes, needs a win and a Tampa Bay loss to advance. Can Carolina spoil their rival's postseason dreams?

TUESDAY, JANUARY 7

Basic Genealogy Class for Beginners
📍Gaston County Public Library in Gastonia
⏰5 - 6 p.m.
Join librarians Brian Brown and Jane Kaylor for a free genealogy workshop covering research basics, citing sources, record types, and more. Open to adults and teens. More Details.                    

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 8

Tilt City Pinball League Night
📍CityCade in Gastonia
⏰7 p.m.
All skill levels welcome, easy to join, affordable fun, and a great community. Don’t miss out! More Details.                 

PLAN AHEAD

Chili Cook-Off at Papa Doc’s
📍3990 Charlotte Hwy in Lake Wylie
📆 2/1/25
⏰12 p.m.
Taste and vote for Lake Wylie’s best chili with a $5 wristband. Compete for $25—limited spots available. Prizes for winners in judged and popular vote categories. 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

Check out the #GastonGram honorable mentions this week here and here.

SEE YA LATER, GASTON!

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

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