What are 2nd Saturdays?
2nd Saturdays are over 100 events that bring together history and authentic North Carolina culture. The fun will take place at all 37 of the Department of Cultural Resources’ museums and Historic Sites on June 11, July 9 and Aug. 13, 2011. Each site will have its own stylized theme; and many sites will have artists and/or musicians.
Who is behind the celebration?
The North Carolina Department of Cultural Resources is leading this project. Cultural Resources includes the State Archives, 27 Historic Sites, 7 History museums, Historical Publications, the State Archives, Archaeology, Genealogy, Historic Preservation, North Carolina Symphony, the North Carolina Arts Council, the State Library, and the North Carolina Museum of Art.
Are 2nd Saturdays free?
Most events are free, with a few exceptions. Activities on the grounds of the Thomas Wolfe House in Asheville are free, but there is a nominal fee to tour the house. There is also a reduced rate of admission to tour Tryon Palace and its surrounding buildings and gardens. At Roanoke Island Festival Park, there is an admission charge to the Park during the day for adults. The Battleship North Carolina will have some free activities in addition to its ticketed tours. At most historic sites with admission fees, children 5 or younger can tour free-of-charge. More details on select ticket prices can be found on our web site, ncculture.com.
Will there be food?
Whenever possible, food vendors will be added to the fun. Of course, all of these sites make great summer picnic spots. Pack your sunscreen and camera, bring some bottled water and come ready for a good time!
Will I be able to win anything at 2nd Saturdays?
Yes! Each site will have a raffle where visitors can enter for a free year-long subscription to Our State magazine, a 2nd Saturdays sponsor!
What kind of art might I find at a 2nd Saturdays event?
Each site is different. Since the focus of 2nd Saturdays is history, participating artists may depend on the site’s specific background. You might find pottery, weaving/textiles, quilting, glassblowing, oil paintings or watercolors, jewelry, photography, woodworking, stained glass, baskets, and ceramics. All artists will have their work for sale, and prices for the art work will vary. Remember to bring cash, since a number of the artists may not accept credit cards away from their studios.
What kind of themes might I discover?
North Carolina has a vibrant culture and elaborate history. Each 2nd Saturdays program will reflect the unique character of the location, whether it is the Underground Railroad Dedication at Historic Halifax, Battleship North Carolina’s “Living History Guild,” or historic reenactments, quilting demonstrations, music and fresh farm produce at the CSS Neuse in Lenoir County. Other themes or categories may include Civil War; outdoor/environment, heritage and farm, furniture/wood, quilt/textiles, period-appropriate games and toys, and architectural painting/photography. For a list of themes, visit www.ncculture.com
How about music?
Not all sites will have music, but the ones that do might feature traditional and bluegrass, blues, fife and drum or Gospel.
If I am driving in North Carolina, what else can I look for?
To plan trips, go to www.homegrownhandmade.com for itineraries and “Art Roads and Farm Trails.” Nearly 1,500 of the familiar Historical Marker silver signs offer “history on a stick” along North Carolina’s highways, and at www.ncmarkers.com.
What age group is 2nd Saturdays aimed towards?
Visitors of all ages are encouraged to participate in 2nd Saturdays! The events are great family ‘daycations,’ and many of the events have something exclusively for children.
Are there partners?
Partners include Our State magazine and AT&T. Media sponsorship is provided by Public Radio East.
How do I find out more about 2nd Saturdays?
Go to www ncculture.com. It will provide you with links for places to stay, background about each site, photos and stories from past events, information about artists, entertainment, activities and pricing information, if any.