28 Must-See Events in 2024

If you resolved to have more fun AND save more money in 2024, you can keep your promises. Check out 28 free and low cost events in Sanford, NC and You'll See why we are hotter than a blister bug in a pepper patch!

It’s a brand new year with lots of opportunities to discover and explore all the things that make Sanford and Lee County a one-of-a-kind destination. Here are 28 great annual events to plan your next trip around.  

January

Till Beth do Us Part, presented by Temple Theatre Jan 18-Feb 4, 2024

In this side-splitting comic romp about marriage, career-driven Suzannah Hayden needs a lot more help on the home front than she's getting from her husband, Gibby--a washed-up weatherman who no longer makes his marriage a priority. In comes Beth, Suzannah’s sprightly Southern assistant, who explodes into the Hayden household and whips it into an organized, well-run machine, and just in time for Suzannah’s boss Celia Carmichael to fly in for an impromptu business meeting. You’re sure to enjoy this family friendly laugh-out-loud comedy.

Hugger Mugger Brewing 6th Anniversary Party, Jan 27, 2024

Brewery tours, maker's day, food truck rodeo, and showcasing the art of brewing all come together to celebrate the anniversary of the first brewery in Downtown Sanford.

Raven Fest '24, Raven Forge Games, Jan 27, 2024

Gamers beware, this event is full of opportunities! Join in multiple games and tournaments. The event will include a costume contest, food and more.

February

Kiss the Night Away Date Night Market, presented by Raleigh Night Market,

Feb 9, 2024

Located in the farmer's market lot off Chatham Street, the market will feature a curated dinner club, oyster roast, signature cocktails and artisan vendors. Chef Gregg Hamm and Chef Chad Blackwelder will be on hand to lead your culinary tour. Libations 139 will be serving cocktails for browsing. A fun night with your significant other. Palentines and galentines celebrations are welcome too!

The Musical of Musicals, presented by Temple Theatre February 22-March 10

A musical about musicals! In this hilarious satire of musical theatre, one story becomes five delightful musicals, each written in the distinctive style of a different master of the form. The plot: June is an ingenue who can't pay the rent and is threatened by her evil landlord. Will the handsome leading man come to the rescue? The variations are: a Rodgers & Hammerstein version, complete with a dream ballet; a Sondheim version, featuring the landlord as a tortured artistic genius; a Jerry Herman version, as a splashy star vehicle; an Andrew Lloyd Webber version, a rock opera; and a Kander & Ebb version, set in a speakeasy in Chicago.

March

Egg-a-Palooza, presented by Lee County Parks and Recreation and City of Sanford Parks, March 23, 2024

A fun-filled eggstravaganza for families! Egg hunts, crafts, pictures with the Easter Bunny and all around fun.

NC Farm Heritage Days, presented by Central Carolina Antique Power and Equipment,

March 22-23 at the Lee County Fairgrounds

Come out to our 3rd Annual NC Farm Heritage Days. We will have lots to see and do for the whole family. We will have food trucks, antique farm equipment, antique cars and trucks, craft vendors, tobacco barn, tobacco museum, live music, live demonstrations from a blacksmith and a 1930s Frick sawmill.

A Season of Explorations, presented by Lee County Community Orchestra, March 9-10 at the Harper Center

Talented soloist Erin Murphy Snedecor joins LCCO to perform Schumann's thrilling Cello Concerto in A Minor. Plus, composer Richard Dreyhoff Jr. shares his newest work Every Night a Dream Visits Us.  

April

Million Dollar Quartet, presented by Temple Theatre April 4-21, 2024

On December 4, 1956, an extraordinary twist of fate brought Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins and Elvis Presley together at Sun Records in Memphis for what would be one of the greatest jam sessions ever. That legendary December night comes to life with an irresistible tale of broken promises, secrets, betrayal and celebrations that is both poignant and funny. Relive the era with the smash-hits including “Blue Suede Shoes,” “Fever,” “Walk the Line,” “Sixteen Tons,” “Great Balls of Fire,” “Folsom Prison Blues,” “Whole Lotta Shakin’ Goin’ On” and “Hound Dog.”

Sanford 150 Birthday Bash, April 6, 2024

Join in for part of a sesquincentennial celebration for the City of Sanford's 150th anniversary.

Broadway Our Way, April 20, 2024

This signature event held on Main Street in Broadway, NC is a town-wide street festival featuring craft vendors, a food truck rodeo, a center stage with all-day music and an evening dance. Billed as More Fun than a Day in NYC, this is a signature annual event.

Sanford Farmers' Market, April 20-November 9, 2024

The Sanford Farmers' Market runs from April 20th to November 9th this year on Saturday mornings at 115 Chatham Street in Sanford from 8:30am-12pm.The market also offers a Tuesday morning market (same time) at the Enrichment Center from July to September.

The Market offers goods from local farmers, ranchers, nursery owners, bakers, beekeepers, fishermen, food entrepreneurs, and artisans.

May

Strawberry Jammin', May 11, 2024

Begin your day at the Sanford Farmers' Market to gather up beautiful baskets of farm-fresh strawberries then stroll downtown for everything strawberry-themed -- featured cocktails, savory dishes, sweet desserts and themed products are on full display at this annual signature event.



Carolina Indie Fest, presented by Hugger Mugger Brewing May 10-11

Carolina Indie Fest is an all original, multi-day music festival hosted in downtown Sanford, NC around Hugger Mugger Brewing. This festival celebrates the originality and diversity of Indie musical artists from near and far.

Thousands of music fans flock to this unique festival yearly. This festival features food trucks, crafty local vendors, and a seemingly endless supply of delicious beer.

Horizons: Scenes of Old & New, presented by the Lee County Community Orchestra, May 18-19

The orchestra performs the majestic Symphony No. 1 by Russian composer Kalinnikov and premieres a LCCO commissioned piece from composer Ash Slemke. Plus, the audience favorite Armed Forces Medley, all at The Mann Center.

Ole Gilliam Mill Crank Up, May 18-19, 2024

Once a year we "Crank up" the old equipment and run demonstrations at Ole Gilliam Mill Park. You will see an old sawmill in operation, a "hit & miss" motor driven log splitter, and a variety of of uses for "hit and miss" engines of all sizes. You can also see a liquor still in operation, and weaving demonstrations.  In addition, you can take a tour of the park behind a 1950's tractor, watch a blacksmith at work, eat some ice cream, or just listen to the music. The grist mill will be cranked up for demonstration and a limited supply of cornmeal and grits are available to purchase. 

Once again the food concession will be run by Stubbs BBQ! 

June | July | August

Classics to Customs Car Show, presented by San-Lee AACA, June 1, 2024

Hot Rods, classic original cars and modern classics fill Downtown Sanford in front of the historic city hall for all car enthusiasts.

San-Lee Rock the 4th, July 4 ,2024

Hosted by Wild Dogs Brewing and Randall Yow Productions, street music, vendors and food trucks adorn the street in front of the brewery to celebrate the nation's birthday.

Farms with Fireworks, presented by various farms July 4, 2024

Local family farms offer up children's activities, food trucks and treats, and of course, FIREWORKS, to celebrate the nation's birthday. Check Ammons Farm and Buchanan Farm websites for details.

Summer Concert Series, June-August

Grab your lawn chairs and your dancing shoes! Community partners host outdoor free concerts througout the season. Bands, locations and food options are posted weekly on the VisitSanfordNC website.

September

Lee Regional Fair, presented by the Sanford Lions Club September 14-18

The mother of all events...four days of funnel cakes, Ferris wheels, farming displays and fun for all ages.

Carolina Indie Fest, presented by Hugger Mugger Brewing September 20-21

Carolina Indie Fest is an all original, multi-day music festival hosted in downtown Sanford, NC around Hugger Mugger Brewing. This festival celebrates the originality and diversity of Indie musical artists from near and far. Also, it is held spring and fall!

Thousands of music fans flock to this unique festival yearly. This festival features food trucks, crafty local vendors, and a seemingly endless supply of delicious beer.

October

Downtown Sanford StreetFest and Fireworks, presented by the City of Sanford and Downtown Sanford, Inc, October 12

A day-long celebration with music, art, entertainment, food trucks, and fireworks right on the streets of Downtown Sanford the second Saturday of October each year!

Boo and Brew Ghost Tours, presented by Visit Sanford and Downtown Sanford, Inc October 17-19; 14-16; 31

Historical ghosts, craft brews, signature dishes and storytellers come together for a walkable progressive dining and ghost tour experience in downtown. Check dates for live storytellers and featured dishes! Self-guided at other times.

November

Downtown Holiday Open House, November 3

A 40-year tradition is worth the visit! Downtown shops pull out the royal treatment with beautifully-decorated holiday windows, gift-giving specials and the beloved Holiday Punch Card. Don't miss a chance for some retail therapy, big savings and holiday cheer!

Sunday with Santa Train and Tree Lighting, November 24

Yes, we light a train! Santa is on hand for free pictures for everyone who waits in line. Add to that children's activities, stage performances, and COOKIES, and you have a beautiful event to kick off the season.

December

Sanford Christmas Parade, December 2

This is the longest-running nighttime parade in North Carolina, and the streets will be packed! Come early for dinner before the parade and feast your eyes on a lighted spectacular as it makes it way through downtown Sanford.

Taylor Phillips Annual Concert, Early December

This star-studded country music concert, held at the Dennis A. Wicker CIvic and Conference Center, is one to watch! Stay tuned for the exact date and artist announcements! Taylor Phillips has written six number-one country hits, including a 2024 number one hit. Artists vary.

Broadway Christmas Parade, December 14

A fun-filled afternoon with lots of action, this annual parade is packed with entertainment. From bands in trucks to Shriner cars, a day in Broadway always guarantees a great show!

Celebrate Sanford's 150th Birthday in 2024!

The City of Sanford's charter was established in February 1874, and the city government was formed in April that same year. Join us in 2024 as we celebrate the sesquicentennial of the city! Featured events and celebrations, along with historical tours, guest speakers and special treats, will be scheduled throughout the year. Check out the Visit Sanford calendar of events for updated Sanford 150 celebrations.

Check our calender for the FULL lineup of events, as well as times and dates.

www.visitsanfordnc.com/upcoming-events

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