Celebrating National North Carolina Day: September 28th

September 26, 2025

Every year, we celebrate National North Carolina Day. This day allows us to honor one of the most vibrant and significant states in the country.

North Carolina was the 12th state to join the Union. It has influenced our nation’s story in many ways—politically, culturally, and naturally. Known proudly as the Tar Heel State, it’s a place where history and beauty meet at every turn.

A State Steeped in History

North Carolina played a bold role in America’s independence—it was the first colony to vote for freedom from Britain during the First Continental Congress. The state also had a complicated position during the Civil War, initially resisting secession before ultimately joining the Confederacy. These pivotal moments remind us of North Carolina’s deep ties to our nation’s most defining chapters.

Beyond politics, the state is home to stories that still capture the imagination today. From the mystery of the Lost Colony of Roanoke to the Wright brothers’ first flight at Kitty Hawk, North Carolina’s past is filled with both wonder and innovation.

Natural Wonders and Adventure

North Carolina is blessed with some of the most diverse landscapes in the U.S. On one side, the Blue Ridge Mountains and Great Smoky Mountains National Park offer sweeping vistas, waterfalls, and hiking trails that draw adventurers from around the world. On the other, the Outer Banks provide pristine beaches and historic lighthouses along the Atlantic coast.

Whether you prefer mountain sunrises or ocean breezes, North Carolina delivers it all.

A few must-visit gems include:

●     Hanging Rock State Park in Danbury

●     Cape Hatteras National Seashore near Nags Head

●     Fort Macon State Park at Atlantic Beach

●     Blue Ridge National Heritage Area around Asheville

Arts, Culture, and Heritage

The state’s cultural footprint is just as rich. Museums like the North Carolina Museum of History in Raleigh, the Airborne & Special Operations Museum in Fayetteville, and the Museum of the Cherokee Indian in Cherokee bring North Carolina’s heritage to life.

Meanwhile, Asheville’s Folk Art Center and Winston-Salem’s Southeastern Center for Contemporary Art showcase creativity rooted in both tradition and modern expression.

Film and television have also found a home here—North Carolina’s diverse scenery makes it a favorite destination for on-location shoots. And of course, no celebration of the state would be complete without mentioning NASCAR, which has deep roots in both North and South Carolina.

Notable North Carolinians

Over the years, many remarkable individuals have called North Carolina home. A few worth remembering include:

●     President James K. Polk, who expanded U.S. territory during his time in office.

●     Harriet Ann Jacobs, who escaped slavery and went on to author the groundbreaking Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl.

●     Edward R. Murrow, pioneering journalist and broadcast legend.

●     Richard Petty, the NASCAR “King,” whose name is synonymous with the sport.

●     Thomas Wolfe, the novelist whose works captured life and coming of age in early 20th-century America.

How to Celebrate National North Carolina Day

Celebrating this special day can be as simple—or as adventurous—as you want it to be. Here are some ideas:

●     Visit a state or national park and take in the natural beauty.

●     Explore North Carolina’s rich history through museums or historical sites.

●     Share your favorite North Carolina memory or photo using #NorthCarolinaDay.

●     Try a local dish—think barbecue, sweet potatoes, or Cheerwine—to get a real taste of the state.

From its soaring mountains to its coastal plains, from its revolutionary spirit to its cultural treasures, North Carolina offers something for everyone. National North Carolina Day is the perfect moment to celebrate all that makes this state extraordinary.

Sources:

https://www.nationaldaycalendar.com/september/september-days

Disclosure:

All information contained herein is derived from sources deemed to be reliable but cannot be guaranteed. All views/opinions expressed in this newsletter are solely those of the author and do not reflect the views/opinions held by Advisory Services Network, LLC.