It's Saturday October 17, 2026
Dock Quote: “Time wounds all...
This week, October 15-17 at New Village Brewery:
NC Guest Breweries on tap:
• Shortway Brewing Co, Deep River Brewing Co, Raleigh Brewing Co, Cabarrus Brewing Co, Crank Arm Brewing Co
Food Trucks:
Thu 10/15: Thai Street Bites, 4-8p
Fri 10/16: A Taste of Philly, 4-8p
Sat 10/17: Jasmine Tasty Thai, 4-8p
Music & events:
Fri 10/16: Big Jim Kohler Band, 6-8:30p
Sat 10/17: Noah Jackson Cobb, 6-8:30p
New Village Brewery hours: Thu – Sat 2-9p, closed Sunday
Mariposa Wine Bar & Bakery is back, open Oct 17-19.
Normal operating days are Saturday-Sunday-Mondays. Mariposa provides fresh baked goods & coffee in the morning, then evenings charcuterie boards, wine and desserts.
Soup Sunday adds lunch: “Soup Sunday” is from Noon to 2:30p. Enjoy one of three soups along with homemade bread.
Fall & Winter Hours: Saturday, Sunday & Monday mornings 8-11a (bakery) and evenings 3-8p (wine bar).
Saturday is the Oriental Farmer’s Market, from 8a – 11a on Hodges Street near the harbor.
Find fresh microgreens, honey & eggs, handmade soaps, candles, fishing gear, handmade wooden toys, seedlings, and more.
Vendors set up by The Provision Company.
As always, market is weather permitting.
Saturday, October 17, The Bean owner Eric Kindle celebrates 20 years of ownership.
You’re invited to come celebrate with Eric & staff. There are drink specials, contests, raffles for Bean merchandise, and exclusive 20 Year Anniversary shirts and mugs.
The Bean is located at 304 Hodges Street in front of Oriental’s harbor.
Nautical Wheelers’ next Wine Tasting is Friday Oct 16 in New Bern 4-6p, then Sat Oct 17 in Oriental, 2 til 4p. Just drop by.
Daniel Macrae will be pouring several French wines.
Wine list:
• Cicada Cotes du Rhone Blanc Blend
• L’Atelier Vacqueyras Blanc
• Cicada Cotes du Rhone Rouge Red Blend
• Domaine Farge Syrah
• La Reference Gigondas Rouge Red Blend
Find Nautical Wheelers in Oriental at 411 Broad Street, and at 202 A Craven Street in New Bern. 252-249-0359.
Broad Strokes Gallery presents their October Artist Open Exhibit & Sale
Broad Strokes hosts their second Artist Open Exhibit & Sale, bringing together artists from across Eastern North Carolina for a colorful, creative showcase.
As this is a non-juried exhibition, everyone gets a chance to join. It’s not too late to enter your work: artists of all styles and experience levels are welcome. Your first piece is free, and entry forms are available at the Gallery.
Featured Student Artists come from Arapahoe Charter School art teacher Daryn Martin’s sixth grade students, in an exhibit called “Reflections from the Sixth Grade.” Martin says the collection explores a variety of subjects and artistic approaches, showcasing the growing creativity of her sixth-grade students.
Save the Date for Broad Strokes’ Fundraising gala ‘All That Glitters,’ November 6, 6-9p. Tickets available at the Gallery.
Come for the art. Stay for the community. And help keep creativity thriving in Pamlico County.
The Gallery is at 730 Broad St, open 10a-5p Fri & Sat. 11a-4p Sun, Wed, & Thurs.
Oriental History Museum invites you to their newest exhibition: Honoring the Ol’ Front Porch Music Festival. Reception with wine and light refreshments will be held Sunday, October 18 from 1-4p.
The Fall Special Exhibit honors the History of the Ol’ Front Porch Music Festival. Inspired by the Ol’ Store where people gathered to play music. This three-day festival held each October celebrates the musical heritage of North Carolina on the front porches and venues throughout historic Oriental’s walkable village and on the Riverfront Stage at Lou Mac Park.
Visit the Museum to learn more about the inspiration for the festival, how it all began and how it’s grown over the years. View the museum’s collection of festival memorabilia.
This special exhibit runs through December.
Oriental’s History Museum is at 802 Broad Street. Hours: Friday 11-3, Saturday 1-4. Admission is free, donations accepted. The museum is a 501©(3) non-profit.
Oriental United Methodist Church holds Sunday morning services riverside at Lou Mac Park at 8:30a.
Chairs are provided and all are welcome.
There’s also a Sanctuary service at 10:30a.
OUMC is at 404 Freemason Street (at the corner of Freemason Street and 3rd Avenue. Have questions? Contact the church at 252-249-0213.
Pastor Anne of Oriental United Methodist Church and Reverend Adam Christiansen of Pamlico Presbyterian Church hold The Blessing of the Animals, Sunday, Oct 18 at 2p at the Labyrinth on South Ave, across from Lou Mac Park.
The Blessing of the Animals service is a tradition in many Catholic and Episcopal Churches, and many Methodist Churches. It’s a simple service consisting of a brief prayer. Pets may then be brought forward for an individual blessing, in the tradition of St. Francis of Assisi.
All pets and animals are welcome. Bring your cats, dogs, birds, and more. Blessings have and can be given to horses, lizards, hogs, snakes, spiders – whatever your animal companion may be. Children are welcome to bring their stuffed animals for a blessing. Clergy ask only that they are on a leash or properly contained.
If your pet does not do well with others, please use a carrier or bring a picture of your pet. If your animal companion has passed away, feel free to bring a photo or just bring them in your heart.
Donations for the Pamlico Pet Food Pantry – gifts of dry dog or cat food – are very much appreciated.
Typhoon Sailing @ Bow To Stern, Mondays at 3 and 5p.
Bow to Stern invites you to come sailing on their fleet of Cape Dory Typhoons. Bring your friends and enjoy an evening on the water. Not sure how to sail? They’ll pair you with an experienced sailor. Afterwards, you can depart, or hang out with everyone at the fire pit and watch the sun set over the creeks.
Check in and get your boat assignment at 2:45p for the 3p sail, 4:45p for the 5p sail. Return after your Typhoon sail for refreshments and socializing (optional). $25 per person.
Let them know you’re coming by registering here.
Call 252-249-2424 or email for more information Info@BowtoSternBoating.com. Bow To Stern is at 290 Blackwell Point Loop Rd – for directions click here.
Join artists Paula Rozov and Pappy Khouri every 1st and 3rd Monday at the Broad Strokes Gallery Open Studio, 9a-noon. Must register to join.
Every 1st and 3rd Monday, Broad Strokes Gallery sets up space at the back of the main gallery for artists to paint and work with each other. This is not a workshop or a class, but a chance to work on your own materials.
Tables will be available. Bring your own reference materials, easel, canvas / paper, paper towels, odorless solvents, water container and any other materials you usually use. Canvas or panels 16” × 20” or under are best for this set-up.
Cost is $20. Stop in to Broad Strokes Gallery to reserve your spot. No walk-ins due to limited space.
The Gallery is at 730 Broad St. For more information, call 252-249-6164.
Pamlico County Board of Commissioners meets Monday evening, Oct 19 at 7p at the Pamlico County Courthouse. This meeting is open to the public.
The meeting is in the Patsy Sadler Room at 7p, in the Courthouse Annex, unless there is a larger crowd. Then meetings are held in the second floor courtroom. The Courthouse is at 202 Main Street, Bayboro, NC 28515.
Public comments will now be taken at both monthly meetings.
October 19 meeting documents are here
The Pamlico Board of Commissioners meets the 1st and 3rd Monday of every month.
Enjoy fine dining at Gretchen’s Bistro, Wed – Sat, 5-9p and Sunday 10-2p.
Tuesday, October 20, An evening of handcrafted martinis, live piano, and exceptional dining in our beautiful courtyard.
Every Thursday from 6-8p, Jim Durham performs live. Enjoy saxophone jazz, dinner, and handcrafted cocktails.
Reservations are recommended; walk-ins are always welcome.
Gretchen’s Bistro is at 807 Broad Street in Oriental, NC. Call for reservations: 252-249-6098.
In Person Early Voting is happening in Pamlico County. Polls are open at the County Courthouse Annex starting October 15, Mon – Fri from 8a – 7:30p, and Saturday, Oct 31 from 8a – 3p.
Election Day is Tuesday, November 3.
• You will be asked for a photo ID, though you can vote without one. Find out what IDs you can use, and how the ID exception forms work.
• Check to see if you are registered, & search for your sample ballot here.
• Same-day registration is available during early voting, Oct 15 – 31. You cannot register to vote on Election Day, Nov 3. Find out what documents you need to register, here.
• Absentee ballots can be dropped off at the Courthouse Annex during early voting hours.
For all early voting information from the NC State Board of Elections, click here.
For questions, contact the Pamlico County Board of Elections at 252-745-4821.
Open Mic Night is live at the Silos Wednesday nights. The music begins at 7p.
Bring your instrument, your voice, or both. Music is upstairs in The Silos.
The Silos is at 1111 Broad St Extension, Oriental, NC.
Sailors from (and near) Oriental head out on the Neuse for the Wednesday Night Sail Race. Boats rendezvous at Oriental Marker #1SC on each Wednesday for a relatively carefree race around the government marks. Just show up. The race does the “normal” US Sailing countdown. Just like a real race. This allows those new to racing an opportunity to learn and practice the start sequence.
The race starts at 1700 GPS time. There is a warning horn at 1655 (usually) and again at the start. Which ever is more upwind, Garbacon or Adam’s Creek, is the weather mark, round the other as the leeward mark and finish at Oriental 1. VHF Channel 78a for communications. Social at the Tiki Bar after the race. Questions? Contact Joe Valinoti – joesail1@gmail.com.
Prime Time hosts a Health & Safety Expo, Wed Oct 21, from 10a-2p.
Free to attend, the Health & Safety expo offers blood pressure & blood sugar screenings, vaccinations, flu shots, goodie bags with discount cards & health & safety supplies, and seminars on a range of health topics.
Seminar Schedule to be announced. Interested in being an exhibitor, sponsor, or marketing your Health & Safety business? Contact Debora Steenson at 252-675-0909 or email director@primetimepamlico.org.
The New Bern Historical Society presents the 36th Annual GhostWalk, Oct 22-24, from 6-9:30p.
Visit 13 ghost sites in historic New Bern, where the ‘ghosts’ of New Bern tell stories from the city’s 250 year history.
Family-friendly event. Guides lead you through stops in Cedar Grove Cemetery, to hear stories based on real historical characters and events. The rest of the event is self-guided, with historical spirits telling tales on outdoor porches in downtown New Bern. Local historic churches offer a variety of low-cost meals for Ghostwalk visitors. Prepare yourself to see some special guests creeping through the cemetery during your visit. Watch for something ‘thrilling’ at the New Bern Academy Green. And keep your eyes open for special apparitions like the Veri-Good Bakery.
Tickets for the New Bern Historical Society’s GhostWalk are good for all three nights and are available at www.GhostwalkNewBern.com, by calling 252-638-8558, or at the Historical Society office at 511 Broad Street. Tickets can also be purchased at Mitchell’s Hardware downtown, and at both Harris Teeters in New Bern beginning Sept 7.
Adult advance tickets are $20 with a special $17 price for active-duty military, students and Historical Society members. Adults day of the event are $25. Children under 12 are $5, children under 3 are free. Your ticket is your Ghostwalk map.
The Oriental History Museum presents Haunted Nights at the Museum, Thursday – Saturday, Oct 22-24 and Thursday & Friday, Oct 29-30 @ 7p.
Historian and storyteller Dale Montgomery tells haunted tales of Oriental & Pamlico County, including stories about some items in the Museum’s collection.
This is an interactive event and is not for children. Total darkness, loud sudden noises, and potentially frightening images are part of the experience.
Doors open at 6:30p and close promptly at 7p; no latecomers will be admitted. The show is about an hour long.
Admission is free, donations are gratefully accepted by cash or check please. Oriental’s History Museum is a 501©(3) nonprofit organization located at 802 Broad St., Oriental, NC. For questions, contact the Museum at orientalhistorymuseum@gmail.com.
B&B Yacht Designs hosts their annual Messabout Oct 23 – 25, 2026 at the B&B Design Workshop.
Boaters with B&B designed vessels get together, sail, and talk boats for the weekend.
All are welcome. Don’t have a B&B boat? No problem – bring what you have and come sailing.
FREE to attend the messabout, and $15 per person if you want join Friday night at Little Italy (kids under 12 free). Otherwise you pay your own food and accommodations; B&B provides the water, the dock, the space and Saturday’s lunch. (BYOB, they provide sodas).
B&B has a great site for small boat sailing, including a launch ramp with its on own launching dock, a 170’ dock and floating dinghy dock. Shallow draft boats will happily snuggle alongside the dock for tying up and camping or anchor out for the night. They have over 4 acres worth of land to camp on.
The workshop is at 342 Chapel Creek, Dr Bayboro, NC 28515.
The 2026 Oriental Cup Regatta is rescheduled for the weekend of October 24 out on the Neuse.
The Cup continues as a cooperative effort between Oriental’s three sailing clubs: ODC, SCOO & NSA.
Register at the Cup web site: orientalcupregatta.com.
A look at past Oriental Cup Regattas:
• A Storm, A Ripped Sail, and a Trophy Cup
• Bodacious. TrailerTrash. Victorious.
• The 2021 Oriental Cup Regatta
Join the Oriental Dinghy Club (ODC) for a race weekend, Saturday & Sunday, Sept 26 & 27. PHRF races start at 1, Dinghy races at 1:30p.
Saturday is the PHRF race, for large keelboat racing.
Sunday, it’s dinghy racing. Boats smaller than 20’ like: Sunfish, Lasers, Wayfarers, FJs, 420s, Vanguards and any other centerboard/ dagger board boats 20’ or less.
ODC holds races at least one weekend a month, and you’re invited to join. Don’t know how to race? ODC holds racing clinics to teach the intricacies of racing.
If you have a Sunfish or a sailing dinghy less than 20 feet with centerboard or daggerboard and are interested in racing in the Open Class, check out the ODC website www.orientaldinghyclub.com or contact the ODC Commodore at ODCCommodore@gmail.com.
For those without a boat, Bow to Stern has boats available for daily charter. And if interested in joining the Sunfish Class, ODC can help you get into a boat.
Register at the ODC website or contact ODC for more information: ODCCommodore@gmail.com
PHRF Races (Saturday):
• Oct 24
• Nov 7
• Nov 14
Dinghy races (Sunday):
• Oct 25
• Nov 8
• Nov 15
The rubber chicken returns. The 33rd Greens Creek Challenge Regatta will be held on Saturday, Oct date TBD
2026 celebrates the 33rd Annual Greens Creek Regatta. This late-summer Oriental tradition features boats 20 feet and under racing on Greens Creek and one other challenge. (Somewhere out there, a rubber chicken waits to be rescued…)
Sailors will launch from Bow to Stern from 8:15 – 8:45. Event begins at 9a. Call Jim Edwards at 252-474-6000 with any questions.
Click here for scenes from the 2018 GCC and here to see it, a decade earlier.
The Bayboro Development Reentry Center & 2nd Chance Alliance of Raleigh host an Expungement Clinic, Saturday, October 24, 10a-1p at the YNTO center in Bayboro.
Two attorneys will be on site to help fill out the paperwork to file for the expungement or to help restore your driver’s license. Funds raised from sponsorships will be used to pay for any filing fees.
YNTO is at 13634 NC Hwy 55, Bayboro, NC. Questions? Call 252-229-9706 for more information.
Join Pamlico Community College for the inaugural “Fall Into Pamlico” Community Event, Saturday, October 24, 10a – 4p.
In the 1980s and 90s, PCC grounds hosted a fall event called ‘The Ole Country Fair.’ Decades later, they’re revitalizing the community event with “Fall Into Pamlico,” a family-friendly day of activities and attractions.
The festival will feature a cornhole tournament, craft and product vendors, a food truck rodeo, a pumpkin-decorating contest, a Touch-a-Truck exhibit, children’s games and activities, live music and more.
A full activity schedule will be posted closer to the event.
For additional information or questions, please contact Shellie Saxby at 252-249-1851, ext. 3025, or ssaxby@pamlicocc.edu.
Pamlico Musical Society presents Solomon Eichner at The Old Theater, Sunday, Oct 25, @ 4:30p.
Solomon Eichner played in Oriental in 2024 for Sergei Rachmaninoff’s 150th birthday. This performance honors the 100th Anniversary of George Gershwin’s “Rhapsody in Blue.”
A graduate of the Peabody Conservatory and Manhattan School of Music, Eichner currently resides in Chapel Hill and tours widely in the United States and abroad as a soloist and chamber musician.
He is a prizewinner of the Liszt-Garrison International Competition, the Washington DC International Young Artists Competition, and the Golden Key Carnegie Hall Debut Competition and Miami Music Festival Concerto Competitions.
Tickets are $30 and may be purchased online here or at Nautical Wheelers at 411 Broad St. Tickets for sold-out shows may become available at the door last minute. Check at the box office at 4:15p. For more information, call 252-617-2125.
You’re invited to join The Gathering, 6p at The Bean, on Oct 8.
The Gathering meets twice monthly, on the second Thursday of the month (October 8) as well as the fourth Monday (October 26).
Sponsored by the Oriental United Methodist Church, The Gathering offers a non-traditional setting for open discussions on faith, beliefs, sacred texts, and the history weaving it all together.
Questions are welcome and often lead discussions. There is a very brief devotional thought and moment of silence at the end of the session.
No religious affiliation required or expected. All are welcome. If the water gauge reaches two feet, The Gathering moves to Brantley’s.
For more information, call 252-249-0213 or email asims@nccumc.org.
You’re invited to the Blessing of the Bell, October 28 at 6p.
St. Thomas Episcopal Church’s newly installed bell will be blessed by the Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of East Carolina, Rt. Rev. Sarah K. Fisher, and rung for the first time in Oriental. The 137 year old bronze bell was originally installed at the Church of the Holy Cross in Aurora, NC.
After the ceremony, a buffet dinner will be served in the Parish Hall. All are welcome.
St. Thomas is located at 402 Freemason Street, Oriental, NC.
Pamlico County Library’s Trunk or Treat is Saturday, Oct 31, 11a
The Pamlico County Library expects over 100 children at their annual Trunk or Treat celebration.
Individuals, families, businesses, non-profits, and organizations – all are invited to participate.
Fill out the participation form here, and a Library staff member will get back to you.
Decorate your trunks, bring your treats, and join Pamlico Count Library for Trunk or Treat on Saturday, Oct 31.
Friday, October 30, the Witches of Silverbrooke present the 9th Annual Witches’ Crawl in Oriental.
Friday evening, October 30, the Witches make their way through Oriental, stopping at local restaurants and bars along the way.
Halloween night, Saturday, October 31 at 6:30p, the Witches take over the corner of First & King Streets with new music, new choreography and new surprises. This year’s expanded performance includes the Little Witches, the Witches of Silverbrooke, and a special appearance by Oriental’s Drummin’ Dragons.
The Witches of Silverbrooke began dancing for local causes in 2018 and have since raised more than $82,000 for organizations throughout the community. They are a non-religious community performance and fundraising group.
This year, they dance to benefit HeartWorks. Donations can be made online, given to a participating witch, or bring your donation to the performance in October.
Ride for Parkinson’s Research in the Annual Bernin’ to the Beach, Saturday, Oct 31. All proceeds go to the Michael J. Fox Foundation in support of a cure.
Registration is open now. Be one of 100 bicyclists riding 40 miles from New Bern to Atlantic Beach, raising funds to help find a cure.
The ride is fully supported from start to finish, with 2 rest stops along the way, police escort, lots of snacks and hydration, lots of volunteers, and lunch on the pier at Doubletree Atlantic Beach.
Share your ride with friends and family. Can’t ride with the group? There is a virtual ride option for that.
Tickets available for purchase for those needing a return ride (with their bike) to New Bern.
Registration and more information at this link.
Pamlico Community College Foundation’s annual fundraising golf tournament is reschedule to Saturday, October 31 at Minnesott Yacht, Golf & Country Club.
It’s known as “America’s Friendliest Golf Tournament.” There are contests and prizes, including Closest to the Curve, Putting Contest and Four $125 Closest to the Pin prizes. Registration fee of $85 per player includes green fees, cart, lunch, light breakfast, snacks, goody bags, and one mulligan.
The tournament will feature a Superball format, with four-member teams flighted into divisions by their handicaps.
Register online at the Pamlico Community College website.
Any questions about the tourney, call Heather Arevalo at 252-249-1851, ext. 3084. Net proceeds go to the PCC Foundation and student scholarships.
Walk, shamble, or run in the 3k Run Your Boo-ty Off Family Fun Run / Walk, Saturday, Oct 31 @ 10a.
Event begins at Village Health & Fitness Club in Oriental. All ages and paces are welcome. Costumes are encouraged, but not necessary.
Strollers, kids, and pets are welcome. (For safety reasons, please no bicycles.) Participation is by donation, with proceeds benefiting HeartWorks.
Event T-shirts are available for pre-order for $20 through Oct. 20. To order, email witchescrawl@gmail.com.
Village Health & Fitness is at 1006 Broad Street, Oriental NC 28571.
The community is invited to join the Witches’ Row & Paddle for a sunset paddle, Saturday, Oct 31 at 5:15p. The paddle starts at the Public Wildlife Ramp in Oriental and is in support of the Witches’ Crawl and their fundraiser for HeartWorks.
Dress in your best witch attire, light up your paddle boards or canoes/kayaks, and meet at the Wildlife Ramp on Midyette Street at 5:15p. The ‘Water Witches’ will paddle to the harbor by 5:45p and take over Oriental’s harbor while folks gather for the 6:30p Witches’ Crawl.
The only requirement is a $25 donation to HeartWorks (directly or through the Witches’ Crawl).
Contact Heather Brewer for more information. 919-349-8246.
Hayde Bluegrass Orchestra play The Old Theater Sunday, Nov 1 at 2p & 7p.
The Orchestra hails from Oslo, Norway. They played to rave reviews at the 2022 Ol’ Front Porch Music Festival (plus in 2022 lead vocalist Rebekka Nilsson picked up the Vocalist Of The Year award at International Bluegrass Music Association Awards in Raleigh). They visited again in 2025, playing The Old Theater.
From their 2022 visit to Oriental, a reminder why you’ll want to see Hayde Bluegrass again in 2026:
Tickets are $40. Available at Nautical Wheelers in Oriental and New Bern and online at www.oldtheater.org/tickets
Join Broad Strokes Gallery for their annual Gala & Auction All That Glitters, 6-9p, Friday, November 6.
Enjoy the evening gala with live music, a silent auction, food and drinks. View the art, meet the artists, and help support artists in Pamlico County.
Tickets will be available at Broad Strokes Gallery, located at 730 Broad St., Oriental, NC.
Broad Strokes Gallery is supported by the North Carolina Arts Council, a division of the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources.
Oriental United Methodist Church has its Annual Wing and a Prayer BBQ Chicken Dinner & Bake Sale Saturday Nov 7 4p. Church parking lot next to Church St.
Pick up your “To Go” plates, dine at the church or take it home.
BBQ Chicken Dinner cooked up by Jim Kellenberger (includes baked sweet potato, green beans, slaw, & rolls). 125 Walk up sales until they are all gone. $15 each (extra donations are gladly accepted). Hosted by the OUMC Men. Bake Sale at the same time, hosted by the United Women of Faith.
The Old Theater presents: The Great Debaters, Sunday, Nov 8a at 3p.
The Great Debaters, stars Denzel Washington and Forest Whitaker, and is based on the true story of poet, essayist, and Wiley College Professor Melvin B. Tolson. In 1935, he inspired students to form the school’s first debate team, and lead them to the national championships at Harvard University.
Showtime: 3p – Box office opens at 230p, doors open at 2p.
Admission by donation ($10 suggested). Free popcorn.
TownDock.net sponsors the 2nd Sunday Cinema series with the Old Theater.
The One-Off Book Club meets the 2nd Monday of every month.
Next meeting, Nov 9 at 4p, at the Perry Griffin Foundation House.
After reading 2 books: Life Worth Living, a Guide to What Matters Most by Volf, Croasmun and McAnnally-Linz, and Wake Up Grateful by Kristi Nelson, we announce our next read:
The Artist’s Rule by Christine Valtners Painter, supplemented with Seven Thousand Ways to Listen by Mark Nepo. It’s not necessary to prepare in order to attend. New attendees are most welcome.
If you have any questions, contact Nelda Coats 252-639-1616 or Nancy Piner 252-670-2615, or just show up at the Perry Griffin Foundation House, 300 High Street, Oriental.
Oriental’s monthly Town Board meeting is on the second Tuesday of the month.
Town Commissioners meet at Town Hall at 6p, Tuesday, Oct 13
Town Board meetings are open to the public.
• October Meeting Agenda is here.
Neuse Neighbors has coffee hours each month, generating interest in neighbors helping neighbors.
All are invited to the Neuse Neighbors Network coffee hour, Wed Nov 11, 9a at Town Hall. Discover how Neuse Neighbors Network helps make the community stronger, healthier & happier.
Need help feeding your pet? The Pet Food Pantry is open on the second Saturday of the month at the Pamlico County Library, 10a-2p.
4PAWS, Friends of the Library and Pamlico Animal Welfare Society have partnered to create the Pamlico Pet Food Pantry.
It is a donation-based service for pet owners in the Pamlico County community who find themselves in need. Pet owners in need of pet food or litter may reach out to PAWS at 252-745-PAWS (7297) anytime, or visit on the second Saturday of each month at the Pamlico County Library from 10a to 2p.
Donations of cat and dog food and cat litter are accepted at the Pamlico County Library’s Circulation Desk. One-time and recurring donations with Amazon, Walmart, Tractor Supply, or PetSmart can be shipped to the Library.
Nautical Wheelers’ next Wine Tasting is Friday Nov 20 in New Bern 4-6p, then Sat Nov 21 in Oriental at 2 & 3p.
Stephanie Carlyle from Mutual Johnson Brothers Distributers is serving.
Wine list will be announced closer to event.
Find Nautical Wheelers in Oriental at 411 Broad Street, and at 202 A Craven Street in New Bern. 252-249-0359.
All invited to the 5th Sunday Sing, this Sunday, Aug 30 at 6p.
On (most) 5th Sundays, the churches of Oriental gather and sing a mixture of choral music and good old fashioned church singing. This is a free community event. Church affiliation not necessary to attend.
The group will gather at TBD at 6p for an hour or so of music and then adjourn for refreshments and conversation.
Oriental celebrates The Spirit of Christmas the second weekend in December, Thursday, Dec 10 – Saturday, Dec 12.
Luminaria line the streets of Oriental. Businesses host open houses to say thank you to the community.
There’s a live Nativity, several choirs performing Christmas favorites, a lighted (engineless) flotilla in the harbor, the lighting of the Star at town dock #1, a parade along the main streets, the lighting of the Tree of Names and Lights in Lou Mac Park, and the Light Up Oriental decorating contest for residents and businesses.
The parade is Sat Dec 12 at 1p.
The 2026 Spirit of Christmas schedule will be published about a week before the event.
Until then, check previous year’s event coverage:
• Spirit Of Christmas 2025
• The 2023 Spirit of Christmas Parade
• The Nativity, A few Carols, and Lots of Lights
Touch a dragon for good luck…. Be out on Hodges Street on December 31 to ring in 2027 at the running of the Oriental New Years’ Eve Dragon.
There are two runnings – both starting and finishing at Hodges and South Water. The first run starts at 8p, the second around 11:30p. There will be not one but two dragons as the Chinese dragon joins in. Bring pots, bring pans: make your own music for the dragon.
After the end of that second dragon run, stick around the Hodges Street waterfront just a few minutes more: at midnight, the Oriental Croaker will drop at Town Dock to welcome in the new year.
Scenes from Dragon Runs past:
• A Dragon Rolls Through Oriental New Year’s Eve
• Dragons Run on Hodges – New Year’s Eve 2019 into 2020
• Two Dragons and a Croaker – New Year’s Eve 2018 into 2019
The 33rd annual Instead of Football Regatta is January 1, 2027
A sailing alternative to TV, and a loosely organized one at that, it’s become an Oriental New Year’s tradition. Sailors meet at noon on Monday, Jan 1 at Oriental marker #1 (SC1). Warning horn is at 11:55a.
Marks are: Adams Creek #1, Garbacon #7, finish at Oriental #1 (SC1). Sailing direction/course change announced on Channel 72 prior to start.
There are no rules or sailing instructions. The first skipper that asks for directions or instructions will be drawn, quartered, and forced to walk the plank.
There is a Mandatory Skipper’s Meeting after the race at 3p at The Silos (race cancelled or not). Bring a nautical or fun gift or re-gift for the drawing…all boats participating are included. Must be present to win.
For more information contact Todd Cox at 802-999-7572.
Check out the event from years past:
• A Hazy Instead of Football Regatta
• Forty+ Boats on New Year’s Day
• Instead of Football Regatta 2019
It’s become one of the biggest and most successful in-water boat shows between Annapolis and Savannah. The 2027 Oriental Boat Show — The Best Small Town Boat Show In America —is April 9-11.
This 3-day Friday-Saturday-Sunday show is organized by the Oriental Rotary Club and is the place to see boats and gear for boats.
The Oriental Boat Show features exhibitors of nautical goods and services. Dealers and brokers bring in boats on land and to the slips at Oriental Marina & Inn. For more info, contact boat show organizers via email at oncboatshow@gmail.com.
Find out more about the Oriental Boat Show at orientalboatshow.com.
Check out the report on the 2026 Oriental Boat Show.
You’re invited to join in and play Pickleball even if you’ve never played the game before.
During fall, winter and spring, the Camp Caroline gym hosts a dozen play sessions each week, typically on this schedule (as of Aug 3, 2026):
New player training: Click the first link below
Easy Play (novice and casual players): W 5-7p; Sat 10a-noon
Intermediate Play (moderately competitive): M, W, F, Sat 10a-noon
Open Play (very competitive): Tu, Th, 10a-noon; Sa, 1-3p
Women’s Play: Tu, 1-3p
Intermediate/Advanced/League practice: M, W, 1-3p
Reservations are required for all sessions. Signup information here.
Camp activities limit play at Camp Caroline in the summer, but free outdoor play occurs often on the town courts at Lupton Park, and is arranged using TeamReach.com, group code 864230.
TownDock’s coverage of the local growth of pickleball can be found here.
Oriental Rotary Club meets every Monday at Brantley’s Village Restaurant starting at 6p. The club does good things throughout the community… from Scholarships for Pamlico County Students to the Oriental in-water boat show and Oriental classic car show too.
For info about the club and meetings contact membership chair Jim Kellenberger, 919-621-0362.
If you want to rent a tent, table or chairs call the Rotary order line at 649-3725. More info about Rotary at www.orientalrotary.org
You’re invited to help create prayer shawls at Oriental United Methodist Church. The group meets Thursday mornings from 10-11:30a at the church to crochet or knit shawls or lap robes and pray for the recipients of them.
The weekly gatherings have brought together people from all walks of life and faiths. (And even non-knitters; if you don’t know how to knit, stop on by and get a lesson and join in.) Questions? Call 315-224-0381.
Own a Cape Dory? Then you’re invited to join the Cape Dory Sailboat Owner’s Association – Carolina’s Fleet.
Their mission is to advance the sport and enjoyment of sailing; to promote the education, technical interest, and knowledge of their members members; and to foster and enjoy a welcoming collegial fellowship and social environment among the owners of Cape Dory Sailboats.
The CDSOA hold quarterly meetings that include presentations on a range of topics: from sailing techniques to technical topics. Presentations are geared toward skill improvement and enjoyment of the Cape Dory.
CDSOA also hold rendezvous and fleet cruises throughout the year for all members.
To learn more about the CDSOA and to join the Carolinas Fleet visit CapeDorySOA.org, and click on the “New Members Sign Up” link. There you will also find a link to the CD forum, a huge database of information on Cape Dory sailboats.
Pamlico Community Band rehearses every Tuesday from 7-8:30p at St. Peter the Fisherman Catholic Church.
The band performs three concerts per year: in the spring, opening of the Fourth of July Croaker Festival, and Christmas.
All levels and ages of musicians welcome. Auditions not required; just show up with your instrument. Our focus is the joy of making and sharing music while having fun.
For more information contact Tara Howard at 845-797-0363. St. Peter is at 1149 White Farm Road in Oriental.
The Pamlico County Library hosts a mystery book club the second Wednesday of each month at 5p.
Each month a novel selected from the winners of the annual Edgar Awards will be discussed.
For more info please contact the library at 252-745-3515. Pamlico County Library is located at 603 Main Street in Bayboro.
Have you been wanting to learn to play a musical instrument? Have you started learning to play ukulele on your own but want to be a part of a group? Then UHOOs may be just the group for you…
The UKULELE HOALOHAs of ORIENTAL, better known as the UHOOs, meet every Tuesday from 2-4p at OUMC (404 Freemason Street). New members are welcome to join.
To join UHOOs, contact Claudia Bemis at csbemis@yahoo.com or Judy Styron at cjstyron@embarqmail.com.
The UHOOS focus on having fun while singing and playing together, and periodically perform at events.
The Pamlico County Democratic Party meets ‘virtually’ on the 3rd Thursday of every month at 5:30p. For more information on attending, email PamlicoDems@gmail.com
The Pamlico County Republican Party meets on the 4th Tuesday of every month at 6:30p in the Pamlico County Courthouse Annex Room in Bayboro. All are welcome to attend. For more information visit PamlicoGOP.com or call Chairman Dave Wickersham @ 252-269-4101.
The Pamlico Progressives are a concerned group of citizens who seek to bring about change by focusing on issues that affect our community and by holding elected officials accountable, and by letting their collective voices be be heard to influence positive change.
Pamlico Progressives meet as needed. All are welcome to join. For more information, follow on Facebook or call Diane Lemieux at 802-318-1083.
Find yourself a bargain at the Hospice Thrift Shop in Bayboro – across from the Pamlico High School. Hospice Thrift is open 10a to 4p Monday-Friday and 10a-4p on Saturday. All of the proceeds go to support Hospice of Pamlico County.
Donations of gently used clothes, housewares, small appliances, knickknacks, bedding, books, office supplies and more are always appreciated and may be dropped off during shop hours at the store. For more info, contact the store manager at 252-745-5033.
Oriental’s Drummin’ Dragons get together every Sunday afternoon from 3-4:30p. You’ll find them in Lou Mac Park on Sunday afternoons in summer, weather permitting. In inclement weather, they gather at the Oriental United Methodist Fellowship Hall (and possibly for the winter).
All are invited – come on by and learn to drum. (They have some spare drums for you to try if you notify ahead.) Have questions before you go? Contact Doug Carmichael at Orientaldoug@gmail.com.
In just a few years, the prayer shawl ministry at Oriental United Methodist Church has knitted or crocheted more than 1650 shawls for those in need. The group meets Thursday mornings from 10-11:30am at the church to crochet or knit shawls and pray for the recipients of them.
The weekly gatherings have brought together people from all walks of life and religious faiths. (And even non-knitters; if you don’t know how to knit, stop on by and get a lesson and join in.) Questions? Call 315-224-0381.
The NAACP of Pamlico County holds its regular monthly meeting on the second Monday of each month at 6p at the Pamlico County Senior Services Center at 800 Main St, Alliance. All interested persons are invited and welcome to attend.
For more info, contact chapter President Doug Pearsall at nellie98@embarqmail.com or Hattie Harrell, 1st Vice President truesister2@yahoo.com
Oriental Mayor Sally Belangia holds office hours from 8-9a on Wednesdays at Town Hall. It’s a chance for constituents to talk with the Mayor. Appointments not necessary.
On the third Tuesday of the month the Craven/Pamlico Beekeepers Association meets to talk bees at the Craven County Cooperative Extension Center. The informal “Bee Social” gets underway at 7p. The actual meeting starts at 7:30p and is open to the public. More on CPBA and local beekeeping at their website. The Craven Cooperative Extension Center is at 300 Industrial Drive, New Bern.
Concerned about your drinking? Help is available.
Alcoholics Anonymous meets throughout the week at several locations in the area: At Oriental Free Will Baptist Church at 600 Ragan Road in Oriental, Tuesdays at 8p, and again Friday nights at 8p. (2nd brick building on the left).
At Alliance United Methodist Church at 687 Main Street in Bayboro, Thursday at 7:30p (a great meeting for new members).
At St. Thomas Episcopal Church, 402 Freemason Street in Oriental, Sunday at 7p.
“If you want to drink, that’s your business… If you want to stop drinking, that’s ours.” Alcoholics Anonymous Craven/Pamlico Hotline: (252) 349-0898.
Al-Anon – for those worried about someone with a drinking problem – meets Tuesday at 7p at 403 Mildred Street. It is open to all.
Adult Children of Alcoholics (ACOA) – At Oriental Free Will Baptist Church at 600 Ragan Road in Oriental (2nd brick building on left). Open Meeting Tuesdays from 6:30-6:70p. Women’s Group Saturday 6:30p.
Narcotics Anonymous – A group atmosphere which provides help from peers, and offers an on-going support network for addicts who wish to pursue and maintain a drug-free lifestyle. Never Alone – meets Wednesday at 7p at Alliance United Methodist Church, 687 Main Street in Bayboro.
For a list of other meetings in Pamlico County, including Narcotics Anonymous, click here.
The Pamlico Survivors of Suicide Support Group (SOS) is a free support group for people who have experienced the loss of a loved one to suicide. Whether it happened recently or decades ago, all are welcome to attend these sessions which are led by experienced counselors.
Contact Branson Dunn at 304-839-4131 pageese@yahoo.com or Katherine Hudson at 252-745-4510 for information about the date, time and location of the next group meeting.
The Minnesott Mens’ Golf Association holds a Golf Tournament every second Saturday of the month.
Tee time is 9:15. Call the Golf Shop at Minnesott 252-249-6317 for more information about joining the MGA. Fees for golf as well as the tournaments.
Any Marine on active duty, retired, or honorably discharged with ninety days of active service is invited to join the Oriental Dragon Detachment of the Marine Corps League.
The group meets the 2nd Wednesday of the month at 1800 for dinner — meeting begins at 1900 — at the Oriental Fire Station 19 on Straight Road in Oriental. The Dragon Detachment participates in Toys for Tots, Spirit of Christmas, Croakerfest, the Marine Corps Birthday, as well as national initiatives.
For additional information on joining this detachment, contact Commandant Marty Musella at 252-249-0694. Semper Fi.
Share ideas with fellow anglers. The Lower Neuse Anglers Club meets on the second Tuesday of every month, at 6:30p. They meet at Brantley’s restaurant every month on the second Tuesday at 6:30p, and welcome members and non-members alike. For more info, contact Bob Dillard at gbobdillard @ gmail.com or 704/236-4716
The Oriental Paddle Group goes out kayaking on Friday mornings, setting out from the Wildlife Resources Commission ramp at the end of Midyette Street at 9a. Come and join the group, led by Larry Summers and Bill Hines as they paddle up nearby creeks. One benefit of these jaunts is the birds you can see. As Liz Lathrop of the Pamlico Birders group put is, “We have had interesting birds each time. The birds are not as skittish when you approach in a noiseless kayak.”
Call Bill Hines by Thursday evening prior to let them know you’ll be joining Friday morning: 252-571-0264.
The Pamlico Chorale meets every Monday, 6 – 7:00p at The Oriental United Methodist Church Fellowship Hall. The Chorale performs in concert at least four times a year, including Spirit of Christmas weekend and opening the Croaker Festival.
If you love to sing, the Chorale is the place to spend a few hours every Monday. Everyone is welcome. For more info, contact Carla Byrnes at 745-4793 or 670-4960.
When you go to the bank, you can help the food bank feed those who don’t have enough to eat.
Pamlico County Fishes And Loaves is collecting canned goods and has a drop-off point inside First Citizens Bank in Oriental. Fishes and Loaves is a cooperative effort of a number of churches and organizations in Pamlico County working to provide food to the hungry.
The Oriental Woman’s Club holds its meetings on the first Tuesday of the month at 1pm at the clubhouse at 1007 Gilgo Road.
Guests are welcome. Meetings include refreshments, a special speaker and short business session.
OWC is a service club focused on community service, as well as state, national and international concerns of women and children. The OWC awards several scholarships annually to Pamlico County High School and Arapahoe Charter School graduating seniors who continue their education at the college level.
For more information about club activities and membership, check out orientalwomansclub.org.
The Pamlico Amateur Radio Society meets at Brantley’s Village Restaurant at 9am on the last Saturday of every month (except June). They invite all HAMS and those interested in amateur radio to attend. For additional information, please call Bill Michne WM3X, drmichne73@gmail.com, 252-249-1175 or visit our website at N4PRS.org.
Friends of the Pamlico County Library meets at the library on Highway 55 in Bayboro. This is the group of folks who help sustain the library. For info, call 252-745-3515.
