Blowing Rock Winterfest

Jan. 26-29/BLOWING ROCK – Don’t hibernate- Celebrate! Join us for the 25th annual event and enjoy the fun side of winter. Events include the icy Polar Bear Plunge in Chetola Lake, ice carving in Memorial Park, Rotary Chili Cookoff and Tasting, downtown hayrides, Winter Beer Garden, and more! Event ticket prices vary and several have free admission. For more information, visit  https://blowingrockwinterfest.com/

Hot Cocoa Crawl

Now thru Jan. 15/ELIZABETH CITY – More than 30 local businesses create a trail of the yummiest hot chocolate treats and cocoa-inspired experiences for locals and visitors to sip and savor. From tradition-with-a-twist to chocolate-infused cocktails to handcrafted cocoa-themed gifts — our community-wide Hot Cocoa Crawl has something to satisfy everyone. For more information and a list of participating businesses, visit https://visitelizabethcity.com/Christmas/Hot-Cocoa-Capital 

Penguin Plunge

Jan. 1/ATLANTIC BEACH – 1-2 p.m. Get your penguin buddies ready for the big day! Feel the rush of the cold water as you jump in the ocean to bring in the New Year! Online registration required. This is the 20^th anniversary of this exhilarating event. Proceeds benefit Backpack Friends and First Rung charities. For more information, visit http://penguin-plunge.org/

Shen Yun

Jan. 18/GREENSBORO – At the Steven Tanger Center for the Performing Arts. Shen Yun’s unique artistic vision expands theatrical experience into a multi-dimensional, inspiring journey through one of humanity’s greatest treasures—the five millennia of traditional Chinese culture. Featuring one of the world’s oldest art forms—classical Chinese dance—along with patented multimedia effects and all-original orchestral works, Shen Yun opens a portal to a civilization of enchanting beauty and enlightening wisdom. Tickets on Ticketmaster.