šŸŽ¶ Spring into Action: Music, Festivals & Family Fun Await!

Discover what's happening this week in Greenville and Eastern NC

Hello, ENC Explorers!

As April winds down, Greenville is buzzing with events that celebrate the season. From live performances at the State Theatre to the cherished Farmville Dogwood Festival, there's something for everyone. With Administrative Professionals Day on April 23 and Cinco de Mayo just around the corner, it's the perfect time to plan outings with colleagues, friends, and family. Stay tuned for our top picks to make the most of this vibrant week!​

šŸŽŸļø Explore More, Spend Less with the ENC Explorer Passport!

Want to enjoy the best of Greenville without overspending? The ENC Explorer Passport unlocks exclusive discounts at local restaurants, attractions, and experiences—so you can do more while keeping your wallet happy. šŸ„ŖšŸ—ŗļø Whether it’s a weekend outing or a spontaneous weekday plan, this pass makes every adventure easier (and more fun).

Start saving and exploring today.

šŸ’« Shine a Spotlight on a Greenville Changemaker!

Do you know a business or nonprofit that goes the extra mile for our community? Whether it’s a hometown favorite, a mission-driven team, or a local leader creating positive change, we want to hear about them. It’s time to recognize the people and places making Greenville a better place to live, work, and thrive.

šŸ“‹ Nomination Criteria:
āœ” Actively supports the community through service, outreach, or advocacy
āœ” Delivers unique programs, services, or standout experiences
āœ” Helps strengthen local pride and connection in Greenville

Help us highlight the heart of our community—nominate your local hero today! šŸŒ±šŸ…

ENC Adventures: Take a Midweek Break with a Local Reset ā˜•šŸŒæ

Feeling the midweek slump? With spring in full swing and warmer days ahead, now’s the perfect time to pause, step outside, and enjoy a moment to recharge. Whether you're celebrating Administrative Professionals Day on April 24 or just need a personal time-out, a mini escape can go a long way.

This week’s Seasonal Tip highlights local spots that are ideal for a quiet walk, a cozy coffee, or a low-effort mental reset—no long drives, no big spending, just simple, local refreshment.

Seasonal Tip: Local Mini Escapes for a Midweek Reset

šŸ’†ā€ā™€ļø Town Common + Blackbeard Coffee (Greenville)
Take a stroll along the river at Town Common, then stop by Blackbeard Coffee for your favorite drink and a seat on the patio. Quiet, walkable, and easy to access—perfect for clearing your head.

🌳 Pitt County Arboretum (Greenville)
Spend 20–30 peaceful minutes wandering the gardens at the Arboretum. You don’t need a plan—just breathe in the greenery and let your brain reset.

🌼 Farmville’s Main Street + Lanoca Coffee (20 min from Greenville)
Need a change of scenery? Grab a drink at Lanoca and take a short walk through Farmville’s charming art-lined downtown. Bonus: the Dogwood Festival setup adds energy without the full crowd.

šŸŖ‘ Wildwood Park (Greenville)
Bring lunch or coffee and sit at one of the shaded picnic areas or near the lake. No need for hiking boots—just sit, sip, and enjoy the view.

šŸ“š Sheppard Memorial Library (Greenville)
Sometimes, peace and quiet means flipping through a magazine in a comfy chair with no obligations. Pop into the library for a moment of calm and leave with something inspiring to read.

Pro Tip: Block 30–45 minutes on your calendar—even if it’s just for you. Take your phone off Do Not Disturb and let your brain wander somewhere refreshing, even for a short while.

🌟 Coming up next: We’ve got a date idea and a family-friendly outing that pair perfectly with this beautiful spring weather. Keep reading! šŸ‘‡

Date Idea: Live Music at State Theatre

Where: State Theatre, Greenville, NC
Cost: $25 per person

Add a little rhythm to your week with a night out at the State Theatre, Greenville’s historic music venue featuring local and touring acts. Whether you’re into jazz, country, or indie rock, check the schedule and find a show that suits your vibe. Before or after the performance, grab drinks or dinner at one of the many walkable spots nearby.

Tip: Want to make it feel extra special? Turn it into a progressive date night—drinks at one place, music at another, and dessert to-go from a local cafĆ©.

Family Outing Idea: Farmville Dogwood Festival

Where: Downtown Farmville, NC (April 24–27, 2025)
Cost: Free entry; rides, food & activities vary

Celebrate spring with a visit to the beloved Farmville Dogwood Festival, a tradition filled with carnival rides, games, food trucks, live entertainment, and small-town charm. It’s a great way to spend an afternoon or evening with the whole family—especially with free admission and something fun around every corner.

Tip: Go early in the day to avoid the biggest crowds, and bring a few dollars in cash for games or snacks that aren’t card-friendly. Don’t forget sunscreen and a stroller for little legs!

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Share the Adventure: Invite a Friend to Explore ENC! šŸŒ„

Know someone who’s always looking for something fun, local, and affordable? Send them ENC Explorer and help them uncover Greenville’s best-kept secrets—from scenic spots and seasonal events to budget-friendly outings across Eastern North Carolina.

Want to make sure they never miss a thing? Encourage them to subscribe to the ENC Explorer City Guide for weekly tips on what to do, where to go, and how to make the most of every week. šŸŽ’āœØ

Discover More for Less with the ENC Explorer Passport! 🧭✨

Want to enjoy the best of Greenville without stretching your budget? The ENC Explorer Passport unlocks exclusive savings at local restaurants, attractions, and hidden gems across town. šŸ”šŸŽ­ Whether it’s a spontaneous outing or a weekend plan, this pass makes it easier (and cheaper) to explore more.

šŸŽ‰ Don’t miss your chance to win—enter now and start saving on every adventure! šŸŽ«šŸŒ†

Spring Fun Around ENC: BBQ, Art, and Outdoor Connection šŸŒøšŸŽ¶

Looking for simple ways to enjoy spring in Eastern North Carolina? ENC Explorer has rounded up a few standout events that capture the season’s best—think barbecue by the river, social strolls through the park, and a night of art and elegance. Whether you're planning a weekend with friends or a quiet reset in nature, these events offer something refreshing, local, and worth showing up for.

šŸ“ Want more ways to explore? Head to ENCExplorer.com for weekly guides, local gems, and new ideas to make the most of spring!

What’s Coming Up: Spring Celebrations, Community Vibes & Can’t-Miss Events šŸŽ‰

  • When: April 25, 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.​

  • When: April 26, 2025, 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM

  • Where: Hilton Greenville, Greenville, NC
    A celebration of art featuring auctions with regional artists, live music by Trainwreck, dancing, and fine dining. Funds raised support the Greenville Museum of Art's mission to inspire and connect people through visual arts.

  • When: Saturday, May 3, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM

  • Where: Wildwood Park, 3450 Blue Heron Drive, Greenville, NC
    Kick off National BBQ Month with this lively outdoor festival featuring:

    • A variety of BBQ food trucks

    • Live music performances by The Castaways and Chairmen of the Board

    • Bounce houses for family fun

    • A beer garden to enjoy local brews

    • And more exciting activities

This event is perfect for families, food enthusiasts, and anyone looking to enjoy a festive day outdoors.

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!

What’s your favorite type of budget-friendly activity in ENC?

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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.

Have someone in your life who’s always up for discovering something new? Share ENC Explorer with them and help them tap into local gems, community events, and budget-friendly adventures all around Greenville and Eastern North Carolina.

The more we explore together, the more we find—so spread the word and make every week an unforgettable one! āœØšŸ—ŗļø

Happy Exploring!
-The ENC Explorer Team