National North Carolina Day
National North Carolina Day is perfect for celebrating the rich history of North Carolina. That’s not even to mention, it’s also worth remembering the accomplishments of its people.
his day allows residents and visitors to the Tarheel State to explore the beauty of NC. It’s the best time to appreciate the uniqueness that makes North Carolina a key part of the American story.
History of National North Carolina Day
North Carolina’s history is most famously enjoyed for its beautiful landscape. How lovely is it? Well, people come for a vacation or holiday and decide to stay. Forever.
Its boundaries go from sandy coastal plains to mountainous highlands. One of the original Thirteen Colonies, North Carolina, earned a key spot in stories throughout American history.
Today’s North Carolina was the site of the first English colony in the Americas at Roanoke Island. Settlers named it the indigenous people who assisted those first Europeans. Although the settlers mysteriously disappeared, you can still visit the sites of their settlements today.
During America’s Colonial Era, Edward Teach, aka Blackbeard, terrorized the North Carolina coast. His flagship, the Queen Anne’s Revenge, sank near modern-day Carteret County’s coastline. While Blackbeard was negotiating a pardon for his foul deeds from the then-governor of North Carolina, he was killed by Virginia troops in an ambush.
During the American Revolution, North Carolina Patriots numbered around 7,800. They joined the Continental Army and served under General George Washington. About 10,000 additional men fought in local units around the Tarheel State under General Nathaniel Greene. North Carolina became the 12th state to ratify the U.S. Constitution in 1789.
The American Civil War created a large fissure across North Carolina as brother fought brother. While 125,000 joined the Confederate forces, all did not. In fact, many in the western part of the state remained neutral, refusing to participate in war on either side. About 15,000 North Carolinians left their hometowns to join Union Army regiments.
In the 20th century, North Carolina became an unlikely educational leader. Several innovators, including the Wright Brothers, chose the Tarheel State for their history-making endeavors.
They made their first flight near the small beach community of Kitty Hawk in 1903. That event marked a monumental moment in state and global history, laying the foundation for modern aviation.
How to Celebrate National North Carolina Day
Celebrating National North Carolina Day means trying some fun things that highlight the state’s history and beauty:
Explore the Spot Where the Wright Brothers Took Flight:
Visit beach landmarks such as the Wright Brothers National Memorial near Kitty Hawk. You will find an incredible museum that documents the history of their flight. Then, step out to the dunes, where you can feel the ocean breeze and imagine it lifting the Wright Flyer into the sky.
Explore the Mysteries of Roanoke Island
While at the Outer Banks, zip across the bridge to historic Roanoke Island. It is a must-see. It’s incredible to imagine the early settlers and feel grateful for the Croatoan people who taught them the ways of the New World.
What happened to those missing settlers? Recent evidence shows that they relocated for reasons still not understood. Their final destination lies to the west of Albemarle Sound, in today’s Bertie County. Archaeologists there believe they have solved that mystery.
Enjoy Local Cuisine:
North Carolina is famous for its barbecue, particularly the unique vinegar-based style, “down East barbecue.” In North Carolina, barbecue means pork, not beef. So, a visit to a local BBQ joint is a must.
Don’t forget to wash down your lunch with local favorites like sweet tea or Cheerwine soda. For dessert, enjoy a snack of Krispy Kreme doughnuts.
Outdoor Adventures:
In its mountainous western region, North Carolina offers numerous outdoor activities. Take a sometimes-terrifying drive in the Great Smoky Mountains. Hike the Appalachian Trail. The North Carolina mountains are full of outdoor fun. Adventures await you.
Cultural Events:
Attend local music festivals, art exhibitions, and historical reenactments that are held throughout the state. Each county and town has a rich heritage and distinct culture.
Educational Visits:
Visit one of the state’s prestigious universities or museums. The North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences or the Museum of North Carolina History are good picks. Both are in Raleigh, near the State Capitol and Governor’s Mansion. These spots help you learn more about the state’s past and present.
This celebration honors the state’s history and achievements. But it also does much more… It creates a sense of community among its residents. Whether you are a lifelong resident or a first-time visitor, National North Carolina Day offers countless ways to enjoy the Tarheel State’s rich heritage.
