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Seasonal Events

7 Must-Visit Events in Hickory, North Carolina: A Seasonal Celebration Guide

As the crisp autumn air rolls in, Hickory, North Carolina, transforms into a hub of festive activities, perfect for families, thrill-seekers, and holiday lovers alike. From haunted attractions to Christmas parades, here are eight exciting events you won’t want to miss this season.

1. Lake Hickory Haunts - The Premier Haunted Attraction of the Carolinas

  • When: September 13th – November 2nd, 2024
  • Where: 520 Carolina Avenue, Hickory, NC 28601
  • Website: Lake Hickory Haunts

Lake Hickory Haunts is the go-to spot for those seeking a thrilling Halloween adventure. Known as one of the best-haunted attractions in North Carolina, it features 13 full-scale haunted attractions all in one location. Visitors will be immersed in eerie environments, encountering over 100 professional actors and mind-bending special effects. Spanning everything from haunted trails to creepy mazes, Lake Hickory Haunts is a must-visit for fans of all things spooky.

2. Johnny Wilson Farm Venue & Pumpkin Patch

  • When: September 28th – October 27th, 2024
  • Where: 5163 Precious Memories Lane, Granite Falls, NC 28630
  • Cost: $15 per person (cash only), free for infants under 24 months

For a quintessential fall day out, head to Johnny Wilson Farm, where you can pick pumpkins, pet farm animals, and explore a three-acre corn maze. Activities include a hay maze, tram rides through the apple orchard, and a duck race. Whether you’re taking a family photo, picking out a pumpkin, or enjoying the fresh air, Johnny Wilson Farm promises fun for all ages. They also offer special reservations for groups on weekdays.

3. St. Luke's United Methodist Church Pumpkin Patch

  • When: Now through October 31st, 2024
    • Hours: Monday – Saturday: 9 AM – 8 PM
    • Sunday: 12 PM – 8 PM
  • Where: 52 16th Avenue NW, Hickory, NC 28601

St. Luke’s United Methodist Church brings the community together every fall with its charming pumpkin patch. All proceeds go to local charities, so you can feel good about your purchase while creating lasting memories with family and friends. In addition to pumpkin sales, they host fun events like Pumpkin Painting on October 5th and a Fall Festival on October 19th.

4. Hickory Oktoberfest

  • When: October 11th – 13th, 2024
  • Where: Union Square NW, Hickory, NC 28601
  • Website: Oktoberfest

Hickory’s rich German heritage shines at the annual Oktoberfest. Celebrate with authentic German food, craft beers, live music, and a bustling kids’ zone. From Friday through Sunday, Union Square is filled with local vendors, food stands, and entertainment, offering something for everyone. Enjoy a weekend of laughter, music, and delicious treats at one of Hickory’s biggest cultural festivals.

5. Downtown Hickory Monster Mash

  • When: October 24th, 2024, from 4 PM – 6:30 PM
  • Where: Union Square Downtown Hickory
  • Costume Contest: Register between 4 PM and 5 PM
  • Zombie Walk: 6 PM – 6:30 PM

The Downtown Hickory Monster Mash is a family-friendly Halloween celebration that includes trick-or-treating, a costume contest, and a Zombie Walk. This event offers the perfect opportunity for little ones (and adults!) to show off their spooky costumes. The costume contest features age-based categories, judged by the Hickory Community Theatre Guild, while the Zombie Walk provides a fun and creepy spectacle for all.

6. Hart Square Village 39th Heritage Festival

When: October 26th, 2024
Where: 5055 Hope Rd, Vale, NC 28168
Cost: $50 per person, free for children under 12
Website: Hart Square Village

Step back in time at the Hart Square Village Heritage Festival. Known for housing the largest collection of log structures in the U.S., Hart Square Village invites you to explore pioneer life through live demonstrations and re-enactments. Over 300 artisans will demonstrate skills like blacksmithing, flax making, and apple butter cooking. Visitors can tour all 103 historical structures, experiencing early 1800s life in a truly immersive way.

7. Balls Creek Fall Festival

  • When: November 8th, 2024, from 6 PM – 9 PM
  • Where: Balls Creek Elementary, 2620 Balls Creek Rd, Newton, NC 28658
  • Cost: Wristbands - $10 in advance, $12 at the gate

Balls Creek Elementary’s Fall Festival is back this year, offering food, games, inflatables, hayrides, a silent auction, and more. With activities for all ages, the festival serves as a perfect evening out for families. Whether you’re playing games, hopping on a hayride, or trying to win a prize at the dunking booth, the Balls Creek Fall Festival promises a night of fun.

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