Tag Archive for: #granvillecountytourism

Cyclists To Pedal Through Granville County Oct. 6 On Their Way From NC Mountains To The Coast

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Cycle North Carolina kicks off a week-long ride from the mountains to the coast on Oct. 3, with hundreds of cyclists taking to the state’s scenic backroads to get from Sparta to Topsail Beach over a six-day period. Granville County is on the itinerary for Day 4, and participants will get a glimpse at several different local spots during their visit.

The group consists of cyclists from 41 U.S. states and the District of Columbia, as well as Costa Rica and Canada. Tour stops include Cedar Creek Gallery in Creedmoor, the Soldiers Memorial Sports Arena, Camp Butner Museum, Butner Town Hall, High Rock Farms outside Oxford and the Stem Fire Department.

From noon until 4 p.m., cyclists can enjoy lunch from area food trucks on the grounds of the Creedmoor Recreation Center. The Granville County Tourism Development Authority will also host a welcome tent where local maps and area information will be available.

The day will conclude at the Butner Gazebo Park for “Alive After Five,” sponsored by the Granville County Chamber of Commerce, where cyclists will meet area residents and enjoy live music by the Band of Oz. The event starts at 5:30 p.m. and food trucks will be on site, according to information from county public information officer Lynn Allred.

Volunteers are needed to assist on the day of arrival, Oct. 6, and will be assigned to distribute information at the welcome tent, transfer luggage, and handle other duties. Two-hour shifts are set up beginning at 11 a.m. and ending at 7 p.m. For more information about volunteering or to sign up, please contact Granville County Tourism Director Angela Allen at angela.allen@granvillecounty.org.

The “Mountains to the Coast” Tour is the state’s only fully-supported ride. Luggage is transported in vehicles from one overnight host community to the next. Rider support vehicles are also available to aid cyclists who experience physical or mechanical issues. Outdoor camping areas are set up for interested participants, with rest stops available every 15 to 20 miles along the route. The group averages about 65 miles a day.

The stop in Granville County includes an overnight stay at a temporary campsite on the grounds of the Creedmoor Recreation Center, with reservations at local hotels for those who prefer additional amenities. Overnight stays for the 2021 tour are also scheduled for Mount Airy, Reidsville, Roxboro, Smithfield and Wallace, with the route passing through many other towns and communities along the way.

Over the past 21 years, Cycle North Carolina participants have made overnight stops in more than 100 North Carolina towns and have visited 700 communities while promoting heritage tourism, visitor attractions and state parks, as well as the benefits of bicycling and a healthy lifestyle.

Drivers should be aware that groups of cyclists will be on Granville County roads on Oct. 6 and Oct. 7. Please drive carefully and pass with caution.

Visit https://ncsports.org/event/cyclenc_mountainstocoast_ride to learn more about the “Mountains to the Coast” cycling tour.

Town Talk: Hot Sauce Contest And Other Events Provide Entertainment For All

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Fall is still a few weeks away, but this weekend kicks off a bevy of events in Granville County designed to bring guests from near and far to enjoy everything from classic cars to beautiful glass pumpkins.

It all starts with Saturday’s Hot Sauce Contest, and Granville Tourism Director Angela Allen said the 15th annual event is sure to please. She listed numerous events that will be going on throughout September and October on Tuesday’s TownTalk program with host John C. Rose.

Visit https://visitgranvillenc.com/ to find out about events in the county.

Several bands are scheduled to perform throughout the daylong event, and there will be plenty of food and beverage vendors sprinkled along the streets of downtown Oxford, she said.

Of course, one of the main events is the pepper-eating contest, which will take place from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. Winners of the hot sauce contest will be announced at 11:30 a.m. at the Overton Main Stage. Then, Allen said, there will be a special memorial to mark the 20th anniversary of 9/11. American flags are posted along the streets in Oxford already, she said, and after a moment of silence is observed to remember all those whose lives were lost in the terror attacks, local singer Jonathan Abbott will sing The Star-Spangled Banner.

“The cool part about the hot sauce festival,” Allen said, “is that there’s something for everyone.”

The classic car show will be on Little John Street between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., featuring vintage vehicles and souped-up, tricked out cars and trucks, she said. Children’s games and activities can be found along Williamsboro Street between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Vendors also will be selling their own hot sauces, and Allen said that she considers that to be one of the event’s biggest draws. “It’s just a really good foodie event,” she said. “People love that hot sauce.”

Check out all the details at nchotsaucecontest.com.

But Granville County events don’t stop with the Hot Sauce Contest, Allen said.

The Cedar Creek Gallery in Creedmoor has opened its pumpkin patch, she said. But these pumpkins aren’t grown on vines – they are made of glass and there are hundreds of them ready for purchase at the local art and pottery gallery.

Allen said there’s something for everyone, from traditional orange to beautiful blues and reds – a kaleidoscope of colors. Beginning on Oct. 1, about 100 limited-edition pumpkins will be available for purchase at the gallery or online. Glass blower Lisa Oakley, owner of the gallery, will sign, date and number each work.

Cedar Creek is open every day from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The pumpkin patch will be open through Nov. 7. And the gallery’s fall festival returns this year for the first two weekends in October, featuring live glass blowing and pottery demonstrations.

Events are planned for outside, she said, adding that face coverings and social distancing protocols will be observed inside the gallery.

“This is a really neat time to be surrounded by art and see how it’s made,” Allen said.

Visit cedarcreekgallery.com to learn more.

A short distance from Creedmoor is Butner and the annual Harvest Show, hosted by the Lord Granville Agricultural Harvest Association, will take place on Oct. 1 and 2 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. This event will be held at the corner of 12th and G streets in Butner and will feature displays of antique farm equipment, a working blacksmith and farm shop, and something Allen called “tractor games.”

Daily admission is $5 or $8 for a two day pass.

Back in the northern part of the county, the 6th annual military history show at the Henderson-Oxford Airport will be held on Saturday, Oct. 23. Proceeds go to the local Veterans Affairs committee, which provides advocacy, resources and services to local military veterans.

In addition to various military displays of uniforms, equipment and vehicles, Allen said there will be helicopter rides and reenactors, in period gear representing soldiers from various wars that the U.S. has been involved in.

And if you’re not too tuckered out from all the activity, this year’s edition of the Granville Haunt Farm is a destination that is a must-see – or a must drive-through.

Grey Blackwell said this year’s theme conjures up images from horror movies. “You’ll get to drive through their version of a gigantic movie screen,” Allen said, “as it comes to life on the other side.”

It’s a total drive-through event again this year, and there will be timed ticketing as well, eliminating long lines and traffic jams during the times that the haunt farm is in operation.

Beginning Friday, Oct. 1, the haunt farm will be open each Friday and Saturday in October.

Visit Granvillehauntfarm.com to learn more.

 

 

Granville Area Bridal Tour Coming Up; Register Now

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The 4th annual “Brides on Wheels” is set to hit the road in Granville County next month, but prospective brides need to say “I Do” soon to register for the March 28 event, according to Granville County Tourism Director Angela Allen.

“Go ahead and get your tickets now, because they might not be available closer to the event,” Allen said to WIZS TownTalk. “This is a great opportunity in a very relaxed atmosphere,” she said. Feedback from previous participants was always positive, she continued. “They never felt pressured, they never felt like they had to make a decision that day,” Allen said. “They really got time to just ride around or drive around, see some very beautiful places, talk to some wonderful professionals, and it really kickstarted their whole wedding planning process. And we are happy to do that here in Granville County.”

Another important component to this event is vendor participation, Allen said. She invites vendors to contact her if they’d like to take part in the event, which begins at noon and should end by 6 p.m. She’s looking for deejays, wedding photographers, caterers, event planners, florists, and transportation and bridal wear specialists from Granville County, but vendors from the surrounding area are welcome to participate as well. Email angela.allen@granvillecounty.org or contact he office 919.693.6125 to learn how to take part. The original Feb. 5 deadline has been extended to Feb. 22 for vendor registration, Allen noted.

Check out the full scoop by listening to Angela Allen on TownTalk. Click play…

This year’s tour begins in the southern part of the county at Cedar Grove Acres near Creedmoor. Brides and a guest will have a contact-less check-in there, tour the facilities and then either hop on a chartered bus or follow along in their own vehicles to the other three locations: The Barn at Vino, Carlee Farms and the Orpheum in Oxford.

Each venue provides unique indoor and outdoor spaces for weddings and receptions, Allen said. Restrictions on gathering can affect how a bride and groom can have a wedding, and outdoor venues could be a perfect solution to those solutions. At this time, the venues must follow the 30 percent occupancy restriction, Allen said.

Those restrictions limit attendance at the BOWS event, too, Allen said. Space is limited to between 20 and 25 participants, she said. If the statewide restrictions loosen between now and March 28, she could make room for additional people to attend.

The first three stops have indoor and outdoor spaces for wedding ceremonies and receptions. The last stop on the tour is in downtown Oxford. “The Orpheum is a refurbished old movie theater,” Allen said. “I love seeing the lights on the building light up,” she added, noting that there’s a mezzanine where brides can have a reception or simply allow for additional guests. This tour, Allen said, shows off the variety of options that Granville County has to offer bridal parties. “There are ways you can have your wedding, even during times like we’re going through now,” she said. “We’re happy to be able to offer this tour to brides, grooms, to engaged couples.” Each venue is currently booking for the 2021 season, Allen said.

Because of COVID-19 restrictions, all tickets must be purchased through the website Eventbrite. Each ticket is $20, and covers the cost for the bride and one guest.

Visit www.brides-on-wheels.com to stay up-to-date on all things BOWS, Allen said.

Register to take part in the bridal tour at www.granvillebows2021.eventbrite.com.

Brides on Wheels

Granville Wedding Vendors Invited: Register for 2021 ‘Brides on Wheels’ Tour

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100.1 FM ~ 1450 AM ~ WIZS, Your Community Voice ~ Click to LISTEN LOCAL

-Press Release, Granville County Government

Granville County vendors are invited to participate in the 2021 “Brides on Wheels” Bridal Tour, scheduled for March 28, 2021. Brides planning a 2021-2022 wedding will be taking a scenic “caravan” tour to learn more about wedding locations and resources available to help plan the “perfect” event.

The day includes stops at five wedding/reception venues, Cedar Grove Acres (Creedmoor), The Barn at Vino (Stem), Carlee Farm (Oxford), Thorndale Oaks (Oxford), and The Orpheum (Oxford). Florists, photographers, caterers, event planners, disc jockeys, rental companies, etc. will be set up to welcome new brides throughout the tour and to display a variety of wedding service options.

Vendors interested in participating in the “Brides on Wheels” Bridal Tour are requested to register by Jan. 8, 2021. Space is limited, with first priority being given to Granville-based vendors. After Jan. 8, vendors outside of Granville County will be able to sign up to participate, depending on space limitations and availability. All vendors need to register by Feb. 5, 2021.

Sponsorships are also available, as well as opportunities to distribute items to future bridal couples in “VIP bags” given out to all who participate in the Bridal Tour.

For more information about the Bridal Tour, contact Granville County Tourism Director Angela Allen by phone at (919) 693-6125 or by email at angela.allen@granvillecounty.org. Brides who would like to save a seat on the “Brides on Wheels” caravan tour can register at https://granvillebows2021.eventbrite.com.

Oxford Tree Lighting

Town Talk 11/12/20: Granville Tourism Announces Holiday Events

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100.1 FM ~ 1450 AM ~ WIZS, Your Community Voice ~ Click to LISTEN LOCAL

Angela Allen, director of the Granville County Tourism Development Authority, appeared on WIZS’ Town Talk Thursday at 11 a.m. Allen discussed upcoming holiday events in Granville County.

“In the midst of this challenging year of 2020, we still want to be able to open it up where people can have their holiday traditions,” said Allen. “We know that the holidays are a time for family and friends. Here in Granville County, we want to make sure that we are maintaining the well-being and the health of those around us, but we still celebrate the holiday season.”

Zoom Call With Santa ~ November 21

Join Santa on a special Zoom call Saturday, November 21 at 3 p.m. live from the North Pole. All participants will take part in Santa’s Elf Academy and receive a digital Elf-In-Training completion certificate.

Complete this google form (click here), and a link for the call will be sent to you on the day of the event.

Turkey Trot ~ November 26

This year’s 2.4 mile Turkey Trot has been modified but NOT canceled. Plan your trot, walk or run with neighbors, friends or family at your favorite location and please tag ACIM on Facebook @AreaCongreationsInMinistry.

A food donation box will be set up at Main Street Fitness, 110 Main Street, Oxford on Thanksgiving Day from 9 -10:30 a.m. to collect food or monetary donations.

Oxford Virtual Tree Lighting ~ December 3

Oxford’s Virtual Tree Lighting will be held on December 3. Details will be provided closer to the date. Please check https://www.facebook.com/VisitOxfordNC/ for updates.

Oxford’s “Reverse” Drive-Thru Christmas Parade ~ December 4

In this “reverse” parade to be held December 4 in downtown Oxford, floats, dancers and cars are stationary and spaced apart. Those wishing to soak up the seasonal merriment can simply drive-through and enjoy from the safety of their vehicles.

This year’s theme is “Oxford’s Whoville Holiday.” Churches, businesses and non-profits wishing to participate are asked to decorate accordingly. Spaces will be measured at 60 – 80 feet apart, allowing for social distancing. Candy will not be distributed.

The parade line up will start at 5 p.m. with the parade beginning at 6 p.m.

Butner Christmas in the Park Drive-Thru ~ December 4

Load up the kiddies with their letters to Santa and participate in a guided drive-thru at Butner’s Gazebo Park for a celebration of Christmas music and lights. Visit Santa safely from your car, and drop off the kids’ letters.

The event, sponsored by the Butner Community Association, will be held from 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. on December 4.

Please note that the annual Butner Christmas Parade is canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Carlee Farm Marketplace ~ December 5

Come out and show your support for 20 different local vendors selling unique items just in time for the holidays. Stem Fire & EMS will be selling hot dogs and hamburgers.

A holiday setup for family pictures you can take yourself will be available. Social distancing and masks will be required.

Granville Little Theatre Presents “It’s A Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play” ~ December 6-15

Granville Little Theatre’s Dinner and a Show series presents “It’s A Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play December 6-15.

This beloved American holiday classic comes to captivating life as a live 1940s radio broadcast. With the help of an ensemble that brings a few dozen characters to the stage, the story of idealistic George Bailey unfolds as he considers ending his life one fateful Christmas Eve.

Please visit the Granville Little Theatre’s website www.granvillelittletheatre.net for additional information.

The Barn at Vino ~ December 6

Each child will get to decorate Christmas cookies, make an ornament, enjoy hot cocoa and write a letter to Santa.

K.G. Photography will be there to capture pictures of your family with Santa & Mrs. Claus. (Digital images included in the price of admission).

COVID-19 guidelines for social distancing will be followed. Each family will have their own table. Masks are required when social distancing is unavailable.

Contactless ticket purchases are available online through Eventbrite (click here). Tickets will also be sold at the door, but purchasing tickets online gives you priority time slots.

“Back to Bethlehem” Drive-Thru Nativity ~ December 12-14

The Delrayno Baptist Church in Oxford will relive the miraculous events that proclaim the birth of Jesus Christ with a drive-thru, detailed recreation of the little town of Bethlehem. The drive-thru nativity will be open December 12, 13 and 14 from 6 until 8:30 p.m.

As you drive through, you will see the marketplace, various shops, people hustling about, the Inn that was full and angels announcing the birth of Jesus.

Contact Pastor Joe Don Cooper at (919) 691-9355 for more information.

For more information on upcoming events, please visit Granville County Tourism’s website at www.visitgranvillenc.com.

To hear the interview in its entirety, go to WIZS.com and click on Town Talk.

Granville County Tourism

Town Talk 09/24/20: Location, Array of Activities Credited for Granville’s Increased Tourism Dollars

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100.1 FM ~ 1450 AM ~ WIZS, Your Community Voice ~ Click to LISTEN LOCAL

Angela Allen, director of the Granville County Tourism Development Authority, appeared on WIZS’ Town Talk Thursday at 11 a.m.

Allen discussed the recent announcement that visitor spending in Granville County for 2019 represented an increase of 4.5 percent over the previous year.

According to the annual study by Visit North Carolina, a part of the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina, visitor spending in Granville totaled $54.79 million last year, compared to the $52.44 million reported in 2018.

“I’m very pleased about last year and the things we were able to do to bring in visitors,” said Allen. “I go back to the same basic things that attract people to our area, including our proximity to the Triangle and our laid-back, family atmosphere.”

According to a recent press release, visitor spending in Granville County has seen a steady increase over the past decade – from $37 million reported in 2010 to approximately $55 million in 2019.

Allen attributes the increase in visitor spending to the local economic growth seen in the opening of new restaurants and retail establishments, the expansion of outdoor trail and park opportunities and the County’s new ‘Uniquely Carolina’ marketing campaign.

Acknowledging that the COVID-19 pandemic and its resulting restrictions will affect tourism spending for the foreseeable future, Allen said recent reports of increased visitors at the NC coast and mountains left her feeling hopeful about what she called the “filtering” of tourism dollars.

“The beaches and the mountains are our guinea pigs at this point,” Allen explained. “If people feel safe enough to go to those types of areas, then I think it will trickle down to people being more apt to go back to their rural areas and even some urban areas. I’m looking at it as a positive thing because at least people are getting out.”

To learn more, visit www.visitgranvillenc.com or contact Allen by phone at (919) 693-6125 or by email at angela.allen@granvillecounty.org.

To hear the interview in its entirety, go to WIZS.com and click on Town Talk.

Granville County Tourism

Granville Visitors Spend More Than $54 Million in 2019

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100.1 FM ~ 1450 AM ~ WIZS, Your Community Voice ~ Click to LISTEN LOCAL

-Press Release, Granville County Government

In data shared from a recent statewide study, the economic impact of visitor spending in 2019 has been reported, with Granville County expenditures showing an increase of 4.5 percent over the previous year. According to the annual study by Visit North Carolina, a part of the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina, visitor spending in Granville during 2019 totaled $54.79 million, compared with $52.44 million reported in 2018.

Granville County Tourism Development Director Angela Allen attributes the county-wide growth in tourism and visitor spending to a growing local economy – such as the opening of new restaurants and gathering places – as well as the wide variety of opportunities for outdoor recreation.

“As more and more people are discovering our welcoming atmosphere and relaxed lifestyle, we are quickly becoming a choice destination,” Allen remarked. “Our new marketing campaign bears this out. We are ‘Uniquely Carolina.’”

North Carolina currently ranks number 6 in the country for overnight visitation. Will Tuttell, director of Visit North Carolina, credits the state’s natural beauty and authenticity for this ranking. The 2019 study indicates that visitors spent more than $73 million per day across the state in 2019, setting a new record as more than $26.7 billion in expenditures was reported. This total represents an increase of 5.6 percent from 2018.

“The numbers confirm the strength of North Carolina’s tourism industry as an anchor for economic development,” Tuttell remarked. “The money that is spent here by our visitors benefits everyone by sustaining jobs and reducing our residents’ tax burden.”

Visitor spending in Granville County has seen a steady increase over the past decade. Approximately $37 million reported in 2010, with $40.89 million in 2011, $42.97 million in 2012, $44.43 million in 2013, $44.26 million in 2014, $45.69 million in 2015, $47.11 in 2016 and $49.51 in 2017.

The COVID-19 pandemic and an emphasis on “staying home” during 2020 have presented its own set of challenges for tourism in the coming year. Allen offers a reminder that Granville County continues to offer a wide variety of recreational opportunities, as well as locally-owned shopping and dining experiences, that keep our area in the forefront.

“Granville County already features many of the outdoor activities and natural surroundings visitors are looking for,” she reminds. “There are five lakes to choose from for fishing, kayaking and outdoor fun, as well as hiking and biking trails, open areas, play spaces and so much more. And there are ample opportunities for shopping, dining and supporting our local businesses. We’re working hard to spread the word that Granville continues to be a ‘unique,’ choice destination for visitors.”

To learn more about tourism in Granville County, log onto www.visitgranvillenc.com, or contact Tourism Director Angela Allen by phone at (919) 693-6125 or by email at angela.allen@granvillecounty.org. Statewide county statistics from the  Visit North Carolina study are available through their website at https://partners.visitnc.com/economic-impact-studies.

Granville County Tourism

Town Talk 09/03/20: Granville Tourism Announces Labor Day Weekend Activities

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100.1 FM ~ 1450 AM ~ WIZS, Your Community Voice ~ Click to LISTEN LOCAL

Angela Allen, director of the Granville County Tourism Development Authority, appeared on WIZS’ Town Talk Thursday at 11 a.m.

Allen encouraged residents to go outside and enjoy the end-of-summer weather. “I would definitely advise people to get outside this weekend. It’s going to be a beautiful Labor Day weekend in Granville County.”

Outdoor Activities:

Granville Athletic Park (GAP) – open seven days a week from dawn until dusk, the GAP features over three miles of walking trails, baseball and softball fields, regulation soccer fields, a splash park and playgrounds. The GAP is located at 4615 Belltown Road, just off I-85 in Oxford.

The park was recently added to the list of destinations on the Quilt Trails of the Tar and Roanoke Rivers with the installation of a quilt block on its historic tobacco barn.

The block was installed by the Franklin County Arts Council, connecting the GAP and Granville County to a heritage trail that meanders through eastern North Carolina. Easily visible from the main parking lot and walking trail, the block’s design reflects the community’s efforts to preserve the GAP property (click here for the history of the GAP).

Lake Devin – open to the public year-round, Lake Devin in Oxford offers fishing, 2.5 miles of walking trails, kayaking, dock and boat ramp.

Lake Rogers – covering over 175 acres just northwest of downtown Creedmoor, Lake Rogers offers several picnic shelters, boat rentals and light concessions.

Lake Holt – offers fishing opportunities, kayaking, canoeing and paddle boating in Butner.

Hix Dog Park – the first dog park in Granville County, Hix allows dogs to run and play inside a fenced-in area. Shady spots and benches located inside the park provide pet owners comfort while they watch the dogs socialize and exercise. Located at 300 Williamsboro Street in Oxford.

Ledge Creek Forest Conservation Area – features five miles of hiking and walking trails. Trail difficulty ranges from easy to moderate. Hikers will enjoy seeing fields being restored to forest, wildflower meadows and wildlife sightings as they traverse the trails. Located at 3189 Brogden Road in Stem.

Gauntlet Fitness & Walking Trail – the 1.1-mile trail is outfitted with a variety of fitness stations designed to challenge hikers. The Gauntlet is the work of Jonathan Gaudette, who worked on the project in pursuit of his Eagle Scout badge. Located at 2186 Brassfield Road in Creedmoor.

Allen announced there will also be a great indoor event this weekend at the Cedar Creek Gallery in Creedmoor – the National Teapot Show XI. The show features over 200 teapots by more than 150 artisans. Styles include traditional, contemporary, functional, conceptual and whimsical teapots created with a variety of materials.

Cedar Creek Gallery has hosted this show every three years for the past thirty years. The show continues through Monday, September 7, 2020. The gallery is located at 1150 Fleming Road in Creedmoor. Please visit Cedar Creek’s website for additional information (click here).

Looking ahead to the fall and holiday season, Allen said upcoming event details will be finalized and announced soon. With the recent announcement that the City of Oxford has canceled the annual downtown trick-or-treat event and recommends no city-wide or neighborhood candy collections this year due to COVID, Allen said there are still Halloween attractions to keep people entertained.

“I’m happy to announce the Granville Haunt Farm will be open in October, though it will look a little different this year,” said Allen. “They will be the first NC drive-thru haunted attraction.”

Beginning the season October 9, the farm will be open every Friday and Saturday for the remainder of October. Visitors will be able to enjoy a contact-free haunt experience from the safety of their own vehicles, Allen explained. Granville Haunt Farm is located at 4534 US Hwy 15 in Oxford.

“Even during the pandemic, people want to get out,” said Allen. “They may not travel as far as they use to travel, but we are just 30-45 minutes down the road from Raleigh and Durham, and offer plenty to do.”

For more information, including additional events and attractions, please visit Granville Tourism online at www.visitgranvillenc.com or via Facebook at Visit Granville County, NC.

To hear the interview in its entirety, go to WIZS.com and click on Town Talk.

Granville County Tourism

Town Talk 07/09/20: Parks/Trails Open in Granville Co.; Upcoming Brides on Wheels Tour

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THIS STORY IS PRESENTED IN PART BY DRAKE DENTISTRY

Angela Allen, director of the Granville County Tourism Development Authority, appeared on WIZS’ Town Talk Thursday at 11 a.m.

While COVID-19 restrictions have forced the cancellation of popular Granville County events such as the Lake Holt Fourth of July fireworks show, the Hot Sauce Contest & Festival in downtown Oxford and the Creedmoor Music Festival, Allen said there are still plenty of outdoor activities available this summer.

Outdoor Activities:

  • Hix Dog Park – the first dog park in Granville County, Hix allows dogs to run and play inside a fenced-in area. Shady spots and benches located inside the park provide pet owners comfort while they watch the dogs socialize and exercise. Located at 300 Williamsboro Street in Oxford.
  • Ledge Creek Forest Conservation Area – features five miles of hiking and walking trails. Trail difficulty ranges from easy to moderate. Hikers will enjoy seeing fields being restored to forest, wildflower meadows and wildlife sightings as they traverse the trails. Located at 3189 Brogden Road in Stem.
  • Gauntlet Fitness & Walking Trail – opened in the spring of 2016, the 1.1-mile trail is outfitted with a variety of fitness stations designed to challenge hikers. The Gauntlet is the work of Jonathan Gaudette, who worked on the project in pursuit of his Eagle Scout badge. Located at 2186 Brassfield Road in Creedmoor.
  • Lake Devin – open to the public year-round, Lake Devin in Oxford offers fishing, 2.5 miles of walking trails, kayaking, dock and boat ramp.
  • Lake Rogers Park – covering over 175 acres just northwest of downtown Creedmoor, Lake Rogers offers several picnic shelters, boat rentals and light concessions.
  • Lake Holt – offers fishing opportunities, kayaking, canoeing and paddle boating in Butner.

The Granville Athletic Park, Grassy Creek Recreation Area, Central Avenue Gazebo Park and Wilton Slopes on the Tar River Paddle Trail also offer a wide variety of outdoor, and in many instances free, activities. Allen reminded listeners that usage of some outdoor equipment, such as children’s playgrounds, may be temporarily restricted due to State mandate.

For more information on events and activities in Granville County, please visit www.visitgranvillenc.com.

Switching gears to discuss an upcoming big event for Granville County Tourism, Allen announced the annual Brides on Wheels Tour that was postponed from its original date in April is set to move forward with social distancing guidelines in place on July 26, 2020.

Brides on Wheels Tour:

Brides planning a 2020-2021 wedding are invited to take a scenic caravan tour of Granville County to learn more about wedding locations and resources available to help plan their special day.

The 2020 Brides on Wheels Tour includes a stop at three wedding/reception venues: The Oaks at Oxford, Carlee Farm and Shadowing Oaks. Participants will also have early access to the newly renovated The Orpheum at Oxford. Florists, photographers, caterers, disc jockeys, rental companies and more will welcome brides and their guests throughout the tour.

Registered participants will receive the tour schedule prior to the day of the event so that they can travel to each venue in their personal vehicles. “We really wanted to revamp and revise the tour in a way where people felt safe and secure about coming this year,” Allen said.

Interested brides may register online at https://granvillebows2020.eventbrite.com.

For more information about the Brides on Wheels Tour, please visit www.brides-on-wheels.com or contact Allen by phone at (919) 693-6125 or by email at angela.allen@granvillecounty.org.

To hear the interview with Allen in its entirety, go to WIZS.com and click on Town Talk.

(This is not a paid advertisement)

Brides on Wheels

Granville’s ‘Brides on Wheels’ Wedding Tour Rescheduled 

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100.1 FM ~ 1450 AM ~ WIZS, Your Community Voice ~ Click to LISTEN LOCAL

-Press Release and photos, Granville County Government

Brides planning a 2020-2021 wedding are invited to take a scenic caravan tour of Granville County to learn more about wedding locations and resources available to help plan their special day. 

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the event was postponed from its original date in April and is now scheduled for July 26, 2020.

The day includes a stop at three wedding/reception venues (The Oaks at Oxford, Carlee Farm and Shadowing Oaks), as well as early access to a brand new venue, The Orpheum at Oxford, located in downtown Oxford. Florists, photographers, caterers, disc jockeys, rental companies, etc. will welcome brides and their guests throughout the tour as a variety of wedding service options are displayed. 

Prior to the tour, registered participants will receive the tour schedule by email/text so that they can travel to each venue in the comfort of their own vehicles. The schedule is tentative and subject to change based on statewide restrictions and guidelines for events and social gatherings. 

A number of venues have indoor and outdoor accommodations that will allow tour participants to move around freely. To ensure safety, each venue guide and vendor will wear face coverings and will practice social distancing. Each bride and guest should also wear a cloth face mask during the tour. It is also suggested that participants bring along hand sanitizer/disinfectant wipes for vehicle use. Sanitized restrooms will be available at each stop, and hand sanitizer will be provided upon entry and departure at each venue. 

This annual event is presented by the Granville Tourism Development Authority (TDA). Interested brides should register online at https://granvillebows2020.eventbrite.com.

For more information about the Brides on Wheels Tour, please visit www.brides-on-wheels.com or contact TDA Director Angela Allen by phone at (919) 693-6125 or by email at angela.allen@granvillecounty.org.