It’s 2026!

And we are excited for a bigger and better year of tourism than ever before. Year after year, things keep growing, and 2026 looks to be another year of continued excitement. Every year, festivals, concerts, sporting events, and more draw people from farther and farther away, as they are looking for a place to slow down, enjoy life, and get a sweet taste of the past.

As I look at our community calendar for the coming year, I’m filled with a profound sense of pride. For a long time, we’ve shared a wink and a nod about Edenton being “one of North Carolina’s best-kept secrets.”

Well, the secret is officially out.

From all over the country, people are discovering what we’ve known all along: there is nowhere else quite like our Pre-Revolutionary capital.

Whether it’s our award-winning bed and breakfasts, our diverse and exciting dining scene, or our unique brand of interactive history, Edenton has become a premier destination for those seeking authenticity and charm.

In 2026, that theme continues. And, I want to invite you to join in the festivities.

The Return of Our Signature Favorites

As we look toward the warmer months, the rhythm of Edenton begins to pick up. We are thrilled to welcome back some of the things that define our community spirit:

• Edenton Steamers Baseball: There is nothing like a summer night at Historic Hicks Field. The crack of the bat, the cheers from the stands, and the smell of hot dogs and popcorn are the heartbeat of our summer. And, Sam and Pam the Clam are always around to take photos with kids (and adults!)
• The Summer Concert Series: Our waterfront will once again transform into a musical stage, where the breeze off the Chowan River meets the sounds of local and regional talent.
• Boogie on Broad: Get your dancing shoes ready! This street festival continues to grow every year, bringing neighbors and visitors together for a night of music, food, and pure joy right in the center of town.
• Christmas Candlelight Tour: It may seem far off, but our flagship winter event remains the “gold standard” for holiday magic. The 2026 tour promises to be our most enchanting yet, inviting you inside the historic private homes that make Edenton so visually stunning.

A Historic Milestone: America 250

This year, things take on a special meaning as the United States turns 250 years old.

And, this will be one of the defining themes of this year.

In 1774, 51 brave women signed the Edenton Tea Party Resolution, America’s first organized political action by women. And, as our nation marks its 250th anniversary, we’re going to be celebrating here, where history was made.

Almost every month of the year, there is a special event dedicated to these events, from a special celebration of Constitution Day (September 17) to an award-winning Fourth of July celebration to a very special Heritage Festival in June. There is a host of things throughout the year.

2026 is Your Year to Visit

Edenton isn’t just a place to look at old buildings; it’s a place to live history. Our hotels and B&Bs have been recognized nationally, and our restaurants feature some of the best locally sourced cuisine you’ll find anywhere.

When you visit us this year, you aren’t just a tourist—you are part of the family. You’ll feel it when you walk down Broad Street, and you’ll see it in the way the sun sets over the bay.

I want to personally invite you to plan a trip to Edenton this year. Whether it’s your first time or your fiftieth, I promise you’ll see exactly why everyone is talking about us. We’ve saved a seat for you on the porch!

See you in Edenton!

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