🍷 Brushes, Boards & Sunshine: May Fun You’ll Love

🎧 ENC Explorer Is Now a Podcast!

Big news, listeners—your favorite local guide is hitting the airwaves! You can now catch a weekly audio rundown of Greenville’s best outings, hidden gems, and can’t-miss events. It’s perfect for your morning drive, dog walk, or coffee break. New episodes drop every Wednesday—tune in and explore ENC with your ears!

You can listen on:

• Apple Podcasts

• Amazon Music

• Audible

• Spotify

• YouTube

• Or your favorite podcast app!

🎙️ Subscribe now and let ENC Explorer be your weekly guide—wherever you listen!

🧭 Your Key to Greenville Fun (for Less!)

Ready to explore more without overspending? The ENC Explorer Passport hooks you up with exclusive deals at local favorites—from tasty eats to hidden gems and family-friendly spots. 🎟️ Whether you're planning ahead or winging it, this pass makes discovering Greenville easier and more affordable.

Grab your Passport and start saving today! 🌟

🎉 Enter now for your chance to win! 🌟

🌟 Shine a Light on a Greenville Changemaker

Do you know someone—or a local business or nonprofit—that’s making Greenville a better place to live? We’re looking to spotlight the everyday heroes who are building community, spreading kindness, and making a real difference.

📋 Nominate someone who:
✔ Lifts up others through service, outreach, or advocacy
✔ Offers standout programs or experiences
✔ Sparks local pride and positive change

Let’s celebrate the people shaping our city for the better—submit your nomination today! 🌻🏆

Nominate your favorite business or nonprofit here.

🧺 ENC Adventures: Celebrate Mom with Local Love

Mother’s Day is this Sunday, and there’s no need to panic-buy candles or overpriced bouquets. Greenville, NC has everything you need to make her feel special—without the stress or high price tag. Whether you're planning for your own mom, your partner, or just celebrating the mother figures in your life, these local adventures bring thoughtfulness, fun, and connection right to your backyard.

🌸 Seasonal Tip: 10 Thoughtful Ways to Celebrate Mother's Day in Greenville, NC

From handmade gifts to riverside picnics, here are 10 locally rooted, budget-friendly ideas that go beyond the usual brunch.

1. 🎨 Paint & Sip at The Painted Peacock
   Book a guided session or pick up a take-home pottery kit for a relaxing, creative outing.

2. 🛍 Shop Local at the Umbrella Market (Wed, May 8)
   Find handmade gifts, fresh flowers, and sweet treats just in time for Mother’s Day.

3. ☕ Coffee Date at a Local Spot
   Spend quality time chatting over lattes at Blackbeard Coffee Roasters or Local Oak Brewing.

4. 🌳 Picnic + Playground at Jaycee Park
   Perfect for families—bring a blanket, lunch, and let the kids explore while you relax.

5. 🍳 Brunch at a Local Favorite
   Try Mellow Mushroom or Dickinson Avenue Public House for casual brunch vibes and outdoor seating.

6. 🖼 Stroll Through the Greenville Museum of Art
   Enjoy a peaceful afternoon together surrounded by creativity—and it's free!

7. 🚶‍♀️ Greenway Walk + Iced Drinks
   Take a spring walk along the South Tar River Greenway and treat Mom to an iced chai from Coastal Fog.

8. 🛶 Wildwood Park Picnic & Paddle
   Rent kayaks or explore the waterfront trails for a mini outdoor adventure.

9. 🎭 See a Local Show
   Check ECU or Whirligig Stage for live performances—an artsy, engaging option.

10. 🌻 Fresh Finds at the Pitt County Farmers Market (Sat, May 11)
    Pick up local flowers, baked goods, or handmade crafts—perfect for last-minute gift magic.

💡 Pro Tip: Mix and match a few of these for a full-day experience—like coffee + market in the morning, then a greenway walk or museum visit in the afternoon.

Coming up next: A creative date idea that pairs paintbrushes with wine, and a family-friendly outing where scooters, skateboards, and playgrounds come together for a perfect afternoon in the sun.

🚀 Spread the Fun—Share ENC Explorer with a Friend!

Know someone who’s always up for a local adventure? Help them discover the best of Greenville and Eastern NC with ENC Explorer! From budget-friendly outings to hidden gems and can’t-miss events, we deliver weekly ideas to make every day more memorable.

Send them the link to subscribe—because exploring is always better together. 🌟

Invite them to subscribe to the ENC Explorer City Guide for weekly ideas on what to do, where to go, and how to make every week unforgettable. 🌟🎒

🎟️ Big Adventures, Small Budget—Win an ENC Explorer Passport!

Want to do more around Greenville without stretching your wallet? The ENC Explorer Passport unlocks exclusive discounts at local restaurants, attractions, and hidden gems—perfect for weekend plans, spontaneous outings, or showing off your city to visitors. 🍽️🎡

Enter to win today and start exploring more for less—your next adventure just got a whole lot easier. 🚀🌟

🐊 ENC Adventures: Walk, Feast & Get Wild This May

From scenic strolls to sizzling barbecue and scaly encounters, Eastern NC is buzzing with spring energy. Whether you’re looking to meet fellow explorers on a peaceful park walk, jam out by the river, or get face-to-face with reptiles at a one-of-a-kind expo, this month’s local lineup has something for everyone. Let the season’s sunshine and surprises lead the way!

Visit ENCExplorer.com for weekly updates on affordable outings, hidden spots, and seasonal fun all around Eastern North Carolina. Your next adventure is just around the corner! 🌿✨

🌟 What’s Coming Up: Scenic Walks, Reptile Encounters & Live Music Vibes

Explorer Social: Walk & Connect at Wildwood Park

• When: May 9, 2025

• Where: Wildwood Park, 3450 Blue Heron Dr, Greenville, NC
  Join fellow community members for a leisurely walk through the scenic trails of Wildwood Park. This event is a great opportunity to connect with others, enjoy nature, and engage in light physical activity. All ages and fitness levels are welcome.​

🐍 Mid Atlantic Reptile Expo

• When: Saturday, May 10, 2025

• Where: Greenville Convention Center
  Discover an incredible variety of reptiles, amphibians, and exotic pets at the Mid Atlantic Reptile Expo! 🦎🐍 This family-friendly event features live animal displays, educational exhibits, and vendors offering everything from rare reptiles to specialty supplies. Whether you're a seasoned reptile lover or just curious, it's a fascinating way to get up close with some of nature’s most unique creatures.

🎶 Sunday in the Park Concert Series

• When: June 1, 15, & 29, 2025 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM

• Where: Town Common Park, Greenville, NC
  Settle in for a summer tradition: free live music at the riverfront amphitheater. Pack a lawn chair or blanket and enjoy good tunes, good company, and those golden-hour vibes. Perfect for families or low-key date nights.

Your Voice Matters

Reader Spotlight: Wildwood Park

Looking for a spot with something for everyone? Barbara J recommends Wildwood Park—perfect for picnics, playtime, and peaceful views.

Barbara J loves Wildwood Park and for good reason! Whether you’re packing a picnic, bringing the kids to play, or looking to bike the trails, this spot has it all. Don’t miss the 1.5-mile loop around the lake or the dock where you can launch your boat—or rent one if you don’t have your own. A must-visit for your next outdoor adventure!

Share Your Thoughts

We want to hear from you! What’s your favorite spot in and around Greenville, NC? Whether it’s a hidden gem, a local eatery, or a scenic park, your input could be featured in an upcoming City Guide! Take a moment to share your pick in our one-question survey.