🌞 Sunny Skies & Springtime Vibes: Your ENC Weekend Guide

🎧 Now You Can Listen to ENC Explorer!

Exciting news: the ENC Explorer City Guide is now available as a podcast! Get a quick audio summary of each week’s best outings, hidden gems, and local events—perfect for tuning in on the go. New episodes drop every Wednesday morning!

You can listen on:

• Apple Podcasts

• Amazon Music

• Audible

• Spotify

• YouTube

• Or your favorite podcast app!

🎙️ Hit subscribe and explore Eastern NC with us—one adventure at a time!

🧭 Unlock Greenville Adventures with the ENC Explorer Passport!

Want to experience more of Greenville without stretching your budget? The ENC Explorer Passport gives you exclusive access to discounts at top restaurants, attractions, and hidden gems around town. 🍴🎡 Whether you're planning a weekend adventure or a spur-of-the-moment outing, this pass makes it easy—and affordable—to explore it all.

Start saving and discovering more today! 🎟️🌟

🎉 Enter now for your chance to win! 🌟

🌟 Celebrate a Greenville Changemaker Making a Difference!

Know a business, nonprofit, or community leader who's helping Greenville grow stronger, kinder, and more connected? We want to spotlight the people and places going above and beyond to make our city an even better place to call home.

📋 Nomination Criteria:
✔ Actively supports the community through service, outreach, or advocacy
✔ Offers unique programs, services, or experiences that stand out
✔ Strengthens local pride and brings positive energy to Greenville

Let’s give these hometown heroes the recognition they deserve—nominate your local changemaker today! 🌻🏆

Nominate your favorite business or nonprofit here.

ENC Adventures: Celebrate May Day & Welcome Spring Across ENC 🌸☀️

As April turns to May, it’s the perfect time to slow down, soak up the sunshine, and enjoy the season’s fresh start. Traditionally, May Day (May 1) has been a celebration of spring—marked by flowers, outdoor gatherings, and community fun. While the U.S. blends May Day with Labor Day themes of rest and gratitude for workers, the spirit remains the same: take a break, step outside, and celebrate the simple joys of life.

This week’s Seasonal Tip shares easy, local ways to turn the start of May into your own personal spring festival!

Seasonal Tip: Easy Ways to Celebrate May Day Locally

🌼 Create Your Own Spring Bouquet
Browse fresh-cut flowers at the Farmers & Makers Market in Greenville or pop over to the Washington Market downtown. Brighten your home or surprise a friend with a simple, thoughtful bundle of blooms.

🚶‍♂️ Take a Stroll Through a Garden or Greenway
Visit Pitt County Arboretum for spring blooms, wander along the Town Common by the Tar River, or enjoy the open trails at Wildwood Park. Bring a coffee or a book and let yourself linger.

🎉 Host a Casual Picnic with Friends or Family
Pack some local takeout or homemade sandwiches and head to a shady spot like River Park North, the Farmville Town Common, or the Washington waterfront. Spring breezes and river views make any meal feel like a mini vacation.

🛶 Get Out on the Water
Rent a kayak or paddleboat at River Park North or explore easy coastal waters at Goose Creek State Park. There's no better way to welcome spring than paddling through blooming trees and sparkling rivers.

🎶 Catch Live Music or a Spring Festival
Spring events are popping up everywhere! Check out BBQ, Brews & Beach Beats at Wildwood Park on May 3 or catch an upcoming Concert on the Common. Breweries like Pitt Street Brewing also host relaxed live music nights perfect for a casual May evening.

Pro Tip:
You don’t need a big plan to celebrate the season. Even something small—a walk with a friend, a handful of fresh flowers, or an evening listening to music outdoors—can turn an ordinary day into something memorable. 🌷✨

🌟 Coming up next: We’re sharing this week’s featured date idea and family outing—perfect ways to dive even deeper into local spring fun. Keep reading! 👇

Spread the Fun: Help a Friend Discover ENC Explorer! 🚀

Have a friend who’s always ready for a new adventure? Share ENC Explorer and help them uncover hidden gems, exciting events, and affordable outings all across Greenville and Eastern North Carolina. From scenic trails to local festivals, there’s always something worth exploring!

Want to keep them in the loop? 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. 🌟🎒

Unlock Big Adventures on a Small Budget with the ENC Explorer Passport! 🎟️🌟

Ready to experience more of Greenville without overspending? The ENC Explorer Passport gives you exclusive access to discounts at top local restaurants, attractions, and hidden gems. 🍽️🎡 Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or a last-minute adventure, this pass makes it easy—and affordable—to explore it all.

🎯 Don’t miss your chance to win—enter now and start saving on every outing! 🚀🏙️

Spring Adventures Around ENC: BBQ, Nature Walks & Wild Encounters 🌸🐍

Looking for fresh ways to enjoy the season across Eastern North Carolina? ENC Explorer has rounded up this week’s must-do activities—think barbecue feasts by the river, scenic strolls through local parks, and a one-of-a-kind reptile expo perfect for curious minds. Whether you're planning a lively weekend outing or a laid-back afternoon exploring nature, these events bring the best of spring to life.

📍 Want more local finds like these? Visit ENCExplorer.com for weekly guides, hidden gems, and fresh ideas to make every season unforgettable!

What’s Coming Up: Outdoor Fun, BBQ Flavors & Wild Encounters 🌞🎶

Explorer Social: Walk & Connect at Wildwood Park

• When: May 2, 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.​

BBQ, Brews, and Beach Beats

• 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

🐍 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.

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!

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.