Hello, Gaston! (my old friend),

The drought is almost over. 1,083 days. That’s how long it’s been since Gaston County saw measurable snowfall.

Typically, I’m indifferent about snow. But this time? I’m actually excited.

Maybe it’s because my four-year-old has been taking about it. After a month of Christmas shows and videos, she’s convinced that snow and Santa go hand in hand. Santa showed up, so where’s the snow?

She has plenty of time to learn that’s not how it works here in Gaston County.

A couple of weeks ago, I mentioned how January tends to be a dull month. Well, I take that back. Bring on the winter weather chaos! I’m ready for all the snowy excitement, the bread-and-milk panic, and the cozy celebrations—from the comfort of home, of course.

Here’s to breaking the streak and finally seeing those flakes fall!

Ben

P.S. Thanks for reading! If you enjoyed this week’s newsletter, please pass it along to someone who only eats January snowflakes.

GASTON NTK (NEED TO KNOW)

QUEEN'S FEAST RETURNS: JANUARY 17-26!

Experience the best in area dining with Queen's Feast, offering 3-course meals at top restaurants for a special prix fixe price. Participating Gaston County restaurants include Barrister's, Drift on Lake Wylie, Estia's Kouzina, and more. Reservations recommended—book today for a delicious deal!

$5,000 ADAM M. KINCAID MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP NOW AVAILABLE FOR GASTON COUNTY SENIORS

Strong Like AK is offering a $5,000 Adam M. Kincaid Memorial Scholarship for graduating seniors from Gaston County Schools. This award honors Adam, a 16-year-old who passed away in 2020 after battling childhood cancer. Applications are due by April 1, 2025. 

SPENCER MOUNTAIN TRAIL RECEIVES FUNDING BOOST

Catawba Lands Conservancy received a $100,000 grant, bringing total funds raised to $500,000 for the Spencer Mountain Trail. Construction could begin this year, offering scenic trails, summit views, and connections to Gaston parks. [Gaston Gazette]

THE BOTTLE TREE IN BELMONT HONORED

The Bottle Tree in Belmont has been named one of the Top 50 restaurants to try in 2025 by Charlotte Magazine! Known for globally inspired, locally sourced dishes, they celebrated the recognition with gratitude: “Thank you for being part of our journey!”

CELEBRATE 65 YEARS OF BUSINESS EXCELLENCE IN GASTON COUNTY!

Join the Montcross Area Chamber's Annual Meeting on Feb. 6! This milestone event honors community achievements and spotlights local businesses, leaders, and partnerships. Enjoy dinner, awards, and networking in the Grand Hall, Mt. Holly. Tickets sell fast—secure yours now for an unforgettable evening!

FIRESIDE HISTORY SERIES: "BEFORE WE WERE GASTON COUNTY"

Tonight’s event may be sold out, but you can still RSVP for the Feb. 13 and Mar. 13 sessions! Explore Gaston County’s history with engaging speakers. Admission is free with RSVP. Museum members enjoy complimentary cocktails. Seating is limited, so reserve your spot today!

15 INDOOR WINTER ACTIVITIES IN GASTON COUNTY

Gaston County Tourism has curated a list of fun indoor activities for winter! From museums to entertainment centers, there’s something for everyone to enjoy while staying warm. Discover top picks for family and friends.

THE FOUR-DAY FORECAST

GO-SEE-DO GASTON (this week)

FRIDAY, JANUARY 10

Laser Shows: Classic Hair Bands (6 p.m.) & Queen (7 p.m.)
📍The Schiele Museum in Gastonia
⏰Two shows (6 p.m. and 7 p.m.)
Enjoy your favorite bands paired with stunning laser graphics! More Details.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 11

9th Annual Oyster Roast
📍Windy Hill Orchard and Cider Mill in York, SC
⏰12:30 - 5 p.m.
Recover from the holiday hustle with oysters and hard cider! Join Saltwater Markets at the Orchard for all-you-can-eat oysters, award-winning cider, roaring fires, and live music (weather permitting). More Details.

Monthly Pinball Tournament
📍CityCade in Gastonia
⏰7 - 10 p.m.
Test your pinball skills at the IFPA Monthly Tournament every 2nd Saturday! More Details.

Pickin’ on the Porch featuring Alma Russ
📍The Trailhead Store at DSBG in Belmont
⏰2 - 4 p.m.
Enjoy live local music with warm drinks, s’mores, bonfires, and cozy vibes. Bundle up and beat the winter blues! Weather permitting. January 11: Alma Russ. More Details.

Laser Shows: Ready Player One (6 p.m.) & Metallica (7 p.m.)
📍The Schiele Museum in Gastonia
⏰Two shows (6 p.m. and 7 p.m.)
Enjoy your favorite bands paired with stunning laser graphics! More Details.

Rocky Road: Road to Trail Race
📍Whitewater in Charlotte
⏰8 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
This new event, featuring Half Marathon, 10K, and 5K distances combine road and trail running. Start on Whitewater Center Parkway, then transition to the trail system. More Details.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 12

Belmont Farmers Market - Winter Market
📍Stowe Park in Belmont
⏰11 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Shop local this winter for fresh produce, handmade goods, baked treats, and unique gifts from familiar vendors, all in a cozy outdoor setting. More Details.

January Plant Swap and Shop
📍Traust Brewing in Mount Holly
⏰12 - 4 p.m.
Enjoy a fun plant swap and shopping event! Bring plants to trade or shop for unique finds. Kid- and pet-friendly with great food, drinks, and plenty of parking. More Details.

Laser Show: The Beatles
📍The Schiele Museum in Gastonia
⏰3:30 - 4:15 p.m.
Enjoy your favorite bands paired with stunning laser graphics! More Details.

MONDAY, JANUARY 13 (🌕Full Moon Tonight!)

Lift Your Spirits Film Series featuring Asteroid City
 📍Gaston County Public Library on 1555 East Garrison Boulevard in Gastonia
⏰6 - 8 p.m.
This quirky comedy-drama explores unexpected connections at a 1950s Junior Stargazer Convention. Starring Jason Schwartzman, Scarlett Johansson, and Tom Hanks. More Details.

TUESDAY, JANUARY 14

Charlotte Checkers Promo Night
📍The BoPlex in Charlotte
⏰7 p.m.
Don’t miss the Checkers’ best deal of the year! Tickets start at $1.86 ($6.10 with taxes) for their 7 p.m. game against the Milwaukee Admirals. More Details. 

Free Tuesday at The Schiele Museum (sponsored by Duke Energy)
📍The Schiele Museum in Gastonia
⏰4 - 8 p.m.
Explore the museum’s fascinating exhibits at no cost. No registration needed—just drop by for an unforgettable afternoon and evening of discovery! More Details.

Getting Started with Backyard Chickens
📍Citizens Resource Center in Dallas
⏰6:30 - 8 p.m.
Learn the basics of raising chickens at home in this free webinar! Topics include coop setup, chicken care, egg handling, and more. Perfect for beginners! 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!

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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!