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

The calendar flipped to April, and knowing full well what that meant—April 1, no less—I was ready. My mission? Stay sharp and not get fooled.

I even spotted a Facebook post about an IKEA coming to Mount Holly and thought, Nice try! Not today!

But then, I saw another post: Taxco in Belmont closing, with a DMV moving in. And I believed it. Hook, line, and sinker. Gotten to at 11:49 a.m.

Didn’t even make it to noon. And I know better! You’d think I’d remember that 99% of what you read on April 1 is just well-crafted nonsense. But it only takes a split second, a tiny lapse in judgment, and boom—you’re the fool.

I guess it happens to all of us.

Thankfully, the foolishness only lasts a day. I don’t think I could handle any more than that. We can all rest easy… at least for the next 363 days.

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)

🎶 MOUNT HOLLY NIGHTS KICKS OFF MAY 9

Get ready for a season of live music, great vibes, and unforgettable nights! The first concert features 80z Nation on May 9, bringing all your favorite ‘80s hits to the stage. Don’t miss out on this throwback party—dust off your neon and get ready to dance! See the full lineup here.

🏌️ CRAMER MOUNTAIN CLUB SECURES GOLF COURSE OWNERSHIP

After a decade-long effort, the Cramer Mountain Club has purchased the land containing its golf course for $4.1 million. The board plans a five-year revitalization, adding new amenities, restaurants, and upgraded facilities to enhance the club’s future. [Gaston Gazette]

🌟 DALLAS AND CHERRYVILLE NAMED AMONG 9 BEST PLACES TO LIVE IN NORTH CAROLINA

WorldAtlas.com has named Dallas and Cherryville among the best places to live in 2025, praising their friendly communities, laid-back lifestyles, and beautiful outdoor scenery. Papa's Pizza in Dallas even graced the website’s header photo! 

🎬 BELMONT DRIVE-IN OPENS FOR THE SEASON

The Belmont Drive-In kicks off its 2025 season on April 11 with a Minecraft and Mickey 17 double feature! Gates open at 6 p.m., and movies start around 8 p.m. $25 per carload (cash only—no ATM on-site). Grab snacks at the concession stand and enjoy the show! 

🍽️ KAYA GASTROLOUNGE OPENS IN BELMONT

Located at 102 Davis St. in Belmont, Kaya Gastrolounge is the evolution of the former Bottle Tree, now offering a tapas-style menu inspired by Caribbean, African, and French cuisines. Enjoy paella, steak, craft cocktails, and more in their stylish indoor space or on the spacious patio.

🌳 PICNIC SHELTERS NOW AVAILABLE AT WALKER E. REID, III PARK

Picnic shelters at Walker E. Reid, III Park in Gastonia are now available for rent. Located at 1001 S. Marietta St., the park offers two shelters near sports fields, a playground, and a walking track. Reserve today by calling 704-866-6839 and enjoy a perfect outdoor gathering spot!

🚋 BELMONT TROLLEY SET FOR FIRST RIDE IN 2026

Belmont’s historic trolley is on track to roll out by 2026, connecting downtown to Belmont Abbey College—the only operating trolley between Belmont and Memphis! A new pavilion, museum, and event space are in the works, with groundbreaking set for this year.

📰  QUICK BITES

• Gaston County employees captured stunning local scenes in a recent photo contest. Winning entries will be displayed at the County Administrative Building.

• Keanu Trujillo, founder of Alchemy Coworking in Gastonia, announced its expansion to Charlotte—bringing 16K sq. ft. of possibilities!

• Bliss Gallery presents Under the Carolina Skies, featuring En Plein Air paintings by Gaston County Art Guild artists and Holy Angels residents. Opening reception is tonight!

THE FOUR-DAY FORECAST

GO-SEE-DO GASTON (this week)

THURSDAY, APRIL 3

Downtown Gastonia Caffeine and Conversation
📍The Sumner Group in Gastonia
⏰9:30 - 11 a.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.

Mornings He(ART)
📍121 West Main Avenue in Gastonia
⏰8:00 a.m.
This monthly gathering is designed to bring together Gaston County’s artists, arts organizations, and creatives for an inspiring morning over coffee. Attendees can share projects, seek advice, network, and collaborate in a welcoming atmosphere. More Details.

Board Game Night
📍Belmont Bookshop in Belmont
⏰6:30 - 8 p.m.
Game lovers unite! All skill levels are welcome. Play board games, meet new friends, and enjoy a fun evening of friendly competition. Free to attend, registration is encouraged. More Details. 

Belmont Farmers Market
📍 Stowe Park in Belmont
📅 Every Thursday (April - Saturday)
⏰ 4 - 7 p.m.
Stop by to purchase local fruits, veggies, sustainably-raised meat, fresh baked goods, and unique crafts. More Details.

Get to Know Gaston
📍Rotary Pavilion in Gastonia
⏰4 - 8 p.m.
Spend an evening with Gaston County and the City of Gastonia! Enjoy live music, bounce houses, obstacle courses, and a look inside local government projects. Check out high-tech public safety vehicles and enter to win food truck vouchers. More Details.

FRIDAY, APRIL 4

Carolina BBQ Festival
📍209 East 7th Street in Charlotte
📅 Friday, April 4 - Saturday, April 5
⏰times vary
Celebrate Whole Hog BBQ with 17 top Pitmasters at Victoria Yards! Your ticket includes 5 lbs. of BBQ tastings, plus live music and local vendors selling rubs, sauces, desserts, and more. More Details.

Dirt Track Racing at Carolina Speedway
📍6355 Union Rd. in Gastonia
⏰7 p.m.
The first points race of 2025 is here! A fresh surface, new lights, and high-horsepower action await. Watch USCS Sprint Cars battle for $2,500 to win and more. More Details.

SATURDAY, APRIL 5

Gastonia Farmers Market
📍 410 E. Long Avenue in Gastonia
📅 Every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday
⏰ 7:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. (April - October)
Locally sourced fresh produce. Meats from nearby farms. Homemade baked goods. Fresh flowers grown locally. More Details.

Mount Holly Farmers Market
📍 226 S. Main St. in Mount Holly
📅 Every Saturday (April - October)
⏰ 8 a.m. – 12 p.m.
This market supports local farms, promotes fresh local food, and educates the community on growing their own food. More Details.

Belmont Slow Art Day
📍115 North Main Street in Belmont
⏰10 a.m. and 2 p.m.
Take your time, look closer, and discover the joy of art in downtown Belmont! Celebrate Slow Art Day with two artist-led sessions that encourage deeper engagement with art—no expertise needed. Attend one or both sessions for free and unlock your creativity! More Details

Battlefield Lantern Tour
📍Kings Mountain National Military Park
⏰5:45 - 8 p.m.
Learn about Patriot commanders, their legacies, and the upcoming 250th Revolutionary War anniversary while walking the historic 1.5-mile trail. Free event, no reservations needed. More Details.

Larry Sprinkle’s Super CELLebration
📍The Schiele Museum in Gastonia
⏰10 a.m.
Celebrate TV weatherman Larry Sprinkle’s 40 years at WCNC as he steps into a new role! Enjoy meet and greets, weather demos, hands-on activities, and the WCNC Storm Tracker. Bring pet food donations for a raffle and a chance to win a Sprinkle-themed gift basket! More Details.

Merry Market
📍The Grand Hall in Mount Holly
⏰10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Browse over 40 local small businesses and artisan makers! Find unique gifts like jewelry, clothing, pottery, art, candles, skincare, and delicious sweet treats. A perfect chance to support local and discover something special!  More Details.

Plant Swap and Sell
📍Falls Family Farm in Gastonia
⏰10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Calling all plant lovers! Swap, sell, or shop for plants at this free community event. Bring a table or tent to set up, or just come to browse. Plus, enjoy delicious eats from on-site food trucks! More Details.

MONDAY, APRIL 7

Mystery Movie Monday
📍Regal Cinemas in Gastonia
⏰7 p.m.
Love surprises and a good deal? For just $5, catch an early screening of a mystery movie at Regal Cinemas. The title stays secret until showtime! More Details.

TUESDAY, APRIL 8

Author Event feat. Tommy Tomlinson
📍Belmont Bookshop in Belmont
⏰7 - 9 p.m.
Join author Tommy Tomlinson and guest moderator Ann Doss Helms for a conversation about Dogland! Tickets are $10 in advance, $20 at the door, benefiting Gaston County Animal Care. Space is limited—secure your spot early! Paperback copies will be available for purchase at the event. 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.

Gastonia Farmers Market
📍 410 E. Long Avenue in Gastonia
📅 Every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday
⏰ 7:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. (April - October)
Locally sourced fresh produce. Meats from nearby farms. Homemade baked goods. Fresh flowers grown locally. More Details.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 9

Bring Your Own Vinyl Night
📍Confluence in Cramerton
⏰6 - 8 p.m.
Participants are invited to bring their favorite records, both old and new, to share and enjoy music together in a lively community setting. More Details.    

PLAN AHEAD

The Gaston Business Association presents the Small Business Expo
📍Hilton Garden Inn in Gastonia
📅 Wednesday, May 7
⏰3 - 5 p.m.
Support local businesses and discover unique products at the Small Business Expo! Connect with passionate business owners, explore hidden gems, and celebrate the heart of our community. 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!

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