News

The 2025 North Carolina Blueberry Festival brought an estimated 40,000 to 50,000 more visitors to historic downtown Burgaw this past weekend, making it another successful event and a major economic win for Burgaw, Pender County, and local businesses. Preliminary estimates suggest the annual celebration generated $2 to $2.5 million in direct and indirect economic impact through spending on food, crafts, lodging, and...

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Burgaw’s Blueberry Bash: Everything You Need to Know About the NC Blueberry Festival — From Sweet Sounds to Juicy Berries Each summer, the charming town of Burgaw, North Carolina, transforms into a vibrant celebration of one of the state’s sweetest treasures — the blueberry. The North Carolina Blueberry Festival is more than just a fruit-themed event; it's a cultural tradition, a showcase...

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The North Carolina Blueberry Scholarship Pageant proudly celebrates its 12th anniversary in 2025, continuing its mission to honor the area's rich blueberry heritage and empower young women through scholarship and community engagement. This year's event will feature 23 talented contestants from the area. The pageant, scheduled for Saturday, June 14, 2025, at 6:00 PM, will take place at the Penderlea Auditorium. The...

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WILMINGTON, NC –The Pender Arts Council, the Arts Council of Wilmington & New Hanover County, and Thalian Association Community Theatre proudly present, for one weekend only, Home, the Tony Award nominated play by Pender County’s own Samm-Art Williams. Part of Pender County's 150th Anniversary Celebration, the production will be held on Thalian Hall’s Historic Main Stage, October 17 - 19, 2025....

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Ranked #8 in USA TODAY’s list of North Carolina’s top beaches, Topsail beckons with quiet sands, sea turtle rescue, pirate lore, and WWII missile towers. Topsail Beach has claimed the #8 spot on USA TODAY’s 10Best Readers’ Choice list for Best Beaches in North Carolina. This acclaim underscores its appeal as a treasured coastal gem—ideal for families, nature lovers, and anyone seeking...

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