šŸ½ļø Love & Flavor: Cook Up Something Special This Week!

Celebrate Valentineā€™s Day and family time with homemade meals and fresh ingredients from local markets.

Hello, ENC Explorers!

This week, weā€™re bringing the joy of cooking home! Whether you're planning a romantic Valentine's dinner or a fun family cooking night, shopping at The Fresh Market, Trader Joeā€™s, or Aji is the perfect way to gather fresh ingredients and create a delicious meal together. Skip the crowded restaurants and enjoy quality time in the kitchenā€”because nothing says love like a homemade meal. Read on for inspiration, tips, and more ways to make this week memorable!

šŸ’˜ Last Call for Love! Valentineā€™s Day is just 2 days awayā€”make your plans now for a memorable celebration!

šŸŽŸļø Your Pass to Exclusive Greenville Perks!

Explore the best of Greenville like a true insider with the Official ENC Explorer Passport! šŸŒŸ Enter now for a chance to win exclusive discounts at top local restaurants and attractions. šŸ½ļøšŸŽ­ More flavor, more fun, more savingsā€”your next adventure starts here! šŸŽāœØ

Shine a Light on a Local Business or Nonprofit!

Know a business or nonprofit thatā€™s making a real difference in Greenville? Each month, we feature a standout organizationā€”whether itā€™s a small local shop, a national brand with a community focus, or a nonprofit dedicated to positive change.

āœØ Nomination Criteria:

  • Makes an impact through local initiatives or community support.

  • Offers unique programs, services, or experiences that stand out.

  • Is committed to making Greenville a better place to live and work.

Nominate a business or nonprofit today and help us highlight the heart of our community! šŸ’™

ENC Adventures

With cold temperatures and rainy days ahead, thereā€™s no better time to slow down, grab a warm drink, and get lost in a great book. Whether you prefer the quiet atmosphere of a local library or the cozy charm of a bookshop cafĆ©, Greenville and its surrounding towns offer plenty of welcoming spaces to read, relax, and escape the winter chill.

šŸ’ Almost Here! Only 48 hours until Valentineā€™s Day! Whether itā€™s a homemade dinner or a thoughtful gift, nowā€™s the time to put the finishing touches on your plans.

Seasonal Tip: Cozy Bookstores & Reading Nooks for a Rainy Winter Day šŸ“šā˜•

Sheppard Memorial Library (Greenville, NC) šŸ“–šŸ›ļø

Located in the heart of Greenville, this library is a go-to spot for book lovers. With quiet reading areas, a vast book collection, and free Wi-Fi, itā€™s the perfect place to settle in on a dreary day.

Barnes & Noble CafĆ© (Greenville, NC) ā˜•šŸ“š

More than just a bookstore, Barnes & Noble offers a warm cafƩ space with a Starbucks inside, making it an ideal retreat for browsing new releases while sipping on a latte.

The Scullery (Greenville, NC) šŸµšŸ“–

A cozy cafƩ with homemade treats and a welcoming atmosphere, The Scullery is a great place to bring a book and enjoy a cup of hot chocolate or chai while the rain taps on the windows.

Pamlico Books (Washington, NC) šŸ“šā˜•

This charming independent bookstore in downtown Washington offers a well-curated selection of books and a laid-back space for browsing and reading, making it a hidden gem for book lovers.

Giddy-Up Coffee House (Washington, NC) ā˜•šŸ“–

A local favorite for specialty coffee and relaxed vibes, Giddy-Up Coffee House is a great place to escape the cold, enjoy a warm drink, and flip through a great read.

Tip: If youā€™re looking for budget-friendly books, check out the Friends of Sheppard Library Bookstore for affordable secondhand reads while supporting the local library!

Date Idea: Valentineā€™s Dinner at Home

Where: The Fresh Market, Trader Joeā€™s, Aji
Cost: $12.50 per person

Skip the restaurant crowds this Valentineā€™s Day and create a romantic dinner together at home. Start by shopping for fresh ingredients at The Fresh Market, Trader Joeā€™s, or Aji to find everything from high-quality meats to international flavors. Then, enjoy the fun of cooking together, savoring the process just as much as the meal itself. Light some candles, put on a favorite playlist, and enjoy a cozy, homemade Valentineā€™s experience.

Tip: Want to make it extra special? Write a handwritten menu or toast to your favorite shared memories before digging in!

Family Outing Idea: Family Cooking Night

Where: The Fresh Market, Trader Joeā€™s, Aji
Cost: $12.50 per person

Turn dinner into a family bonding experience by cooking a meal together! Let the kids help pick out ingredients from The Fresh Market, Trader Joeā€™s, or Aji, then bring them into the kitchen to stir, chop (with supervision!), or assemble dishes. From homemade pizzas to DIY taco night, the goal is to make cooking fun and interactive. Finish off the night by enjoying your meal together, sharing stories, and celebrating a job well done.

Tip: Assign each family member a roleā€”chef, sous chef, taste testerā€”to keep everyone involved and make the experience even more memorable!

Spread the Fun: Share Greenvilleā€™s Best Adventures!

Know someone whoā€™s always looking for new things to do? Pass this along and help them discover fun and affordable outings in Greenville! From hidden gems to seasonal favorites, thereā€™s always something exciting to explore.

Want to make sure theyā€™re always in the loop? Invite them to subscribe to the ENC Explorer City Guide for weekly updates on the best local events, activities, and experiences. Letā€™s make exploring Greenville even betterā€”together! šŸŽ‰

Unlock Exclusive Perks: Win an ENC Explorer Passport!

Ready to explore Greenville like never before? Enter now for a chance to win an Official ENC Explorer Passportā€”your key to exclusive discounts at top local restaurants and attractions! šŸŽŸļøāœØ Save big, experience more, and make every outing unforgettable. Donā€™t miss outā€”your next adventure starts here! šŸš€

Discover Greenville with ENC Explorer!

Make every week an adventure with ENCExplorer.com!

šŸŒŸ Find the best local outings, plan unforgettable experiences with family and friends, and explore Greenville like never before. Share your journey with #ENCExplorer for a chance to be featuredā€”we canā€™t wait to see where your explorations take you! šŸ“āœØ

šŸŒ¹ Love is in the Details! Just 2 days left until Valentineā€™s Dayā€”donā€™t forget the little things that make it special, like a handwritten note or a favorite treat!

Mark Your Calendar: Celebrate Community, Music, and Love

  • When: February 12, 2025, at 7:30 PM

  • Where: State Theatre, Greenville, NC
    Donā€™t miss this acclaimed musical trio as they bring their soulful blend of folk, blues, and roots to Greenville for an unforgettable performance.

  • When: February 15, 2025

  • Where: 1001 Hooker Rd, Greenville, NC
    Join the community in honoring Black history with performances, speakers, and cultural exhibits.

  • When: February 22, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM

  • Where: Greenville Convention Center
    Dive into a world of collectibles at this annual show featuring comic books, toys, action figures, and unique memorabilia. Perfect for fans of all ages, this event is a must-see for enthusiasts and casual shoppers alike.

Your Voice Matters

Reader Spotlight: Wildwood Park

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

Barbara J loves Wildwood Park and for good reason! Whether youā€™re packing a picnic, bringing the kids to play, or looking to bike the trails, this spot has it all. Donā€™t miss the 1.5-mile loop around the lake or the dock where you can launch your boatā€”or rent one if you donā€™t have your own. A must-visit for your next outdoor adventure!

Whatā€™s your favorite type of budget-friendly activity in ENC?

šŸŒŸ We Want to Hear From You! Your input helps us tailor this City Guide to your interests, making sure every issue is packed with ideas youā€™ll enjoy. Take a quick moment to vote and shape the future of our content!

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Share Your Thoughts

We want to hear from you! Whatā€™s your favorite spot in and around Greenville, NC? Whether itā€™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.

Help us expand the ENC Explorer community! šŸŒŸ Share the best tips for enjoying Greenville affordably with your friends and let them in on the city's top hidden gems and budget-friendly adventures. šŸš€

šŸ’Œ Final Reminder! Valentineā€™s Day is almost here! Make it special with a heartfelt gesture, a cozy dinner at home, or a meaningful experience together.

Happy Exploring!
-The ENC Explorer Team