Every great celebration has a moment when history feels alive—when the past steps forward and stands beside us. For the First in Freedom Festival, held February 21–28 in southeastern North Carolina, that moment arrived in the form of a gracious, generous, and unforgettable guest: Diana Gabaldon.

Pender County’s role in America’s founding story is anchored by its most defining historic moment: the Patriot victory at the Battle of Moores Creek Bridge in 1776.

To commemorate the historic Battle of Moores Creek Bridge and celebrate the spirit of the NC First in Freedom Festival, Flying Machine has canned a special colonial-style brew, First in Freedom Ale.

Plan and book your stay with us.

Step back in time and examine how war affected those living here during our country’s Revolution. Hear their stories. Feel their struggles. Reflect on their resilience.

Then ask yourself — what has changed since that pivotal time in our history?

As Ms. Redmond reminds us:
“Poetry is the mouth that speaks
when all other mouths are silent.”

This event is FREE and open to the public.

Join us for an evening of history, reflection, and powerful storytelling — where the past speaks, and we listen.

To observe this momentous occasion, the U.S. Semiquincentennial Commission was established by Congress (P.L. 114-196) to encourage Americans to remember our past, celebrate the present, and look forward to a promising future. America 250 NC is North Carolina’s commemoration of the 250th anniversary of our state in the development of the United States. The North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources is the statewide entity charged by Governor Cooper with the leadership of the commemoration for North Carolina.

To this end, DNCR is connecting with a variety of local, state, and federal partners to accomplish the goals of this commemoration. Each provides a unique viewpoint and approach to commemorating this anniversary. As we prepare to mark this anniversary, we are focused on lifting the voices (both historical and present) of North Carolinians to present a complete narrative of our state’s role in our country. To this end, we are happy to introduce the America 250 NC planning guide. You will find our guiding themes and goals, suggestions on how you can engage with the anniversary, and additional resources. 

Colonial Topsail helped kick off America’s 250th anniversary today with a day of free, family-friendly fun in Topsail Beach, NC!

Grab your passport, Explore Southeastern North Carolina with the First in Freedom Passport Program.

The First in Freedom Passport Program is designed to encourage exploration across our coastal and historic region — from battlefields and state parks to charming downtowns and cultural attractions.

It’s simple, fun, and completely free to participate.

Today marks the official kickoff of the North Carolina First in Freedom Festival — a week-long celebration honoring 250 years of America’s story and the powerful role eastern North Carolina has played since the very beginning.

We are proud to celebrate the outstanding creativity and vision showcased in the North Carolina First in Freedom Festival art contest.

Thank you to our sponsors.

The passport allows visitors to engage with history firsthand, likely through visiting sites, attending events, and collecting stamps, with a particular focus on the 250th anniversary of the Battle of Moores Creek Bridge on Feb. 27, 1776.

Would you like to volunteer for a historic event?

In 2026, America is commemorating 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the creation of a new nation dedicated to “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.” Through a nationwide initiative known as America 250, the N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR) will be leading North Carolina’s commemoration of this historic event.

Located in the heart of Pender County, Moores Creek National Battlefield is one of the most important Revolutionary War sites in the American South. On February 27, 1776, this quiet stretch of coastal forest erupted into the first decisive Patriot victory of the war in North Carolina—an event that reshaped the future of the colony and bolstered the fight for independence.

Encompassing Bladen, Brunswick, Columbus, Duplin, New Hanover, Onslow, Pender, and Sampson counties, this 8-county region forms one of the most historically rich and culturally significant corridors in North Carolina. Together, these counties represent centuries of Southern heritage—stretching from Revolutionary-era crossroads and agricultural heartlands to coastal settlements, maritime traditions, and preserved natural landscapes.

Eastern North Carolina played a vital role in the American Revolution. From the ports of Wilmington to the backroads of Pender, Duplin, and Onslow counties, citizens rallied against British rule and stood firm for independence. The region’s people — farmers, tradesmen, merchants, and families — contributed to the early resistance movements, supplied patriot troops, and hosted some of the state’s earliest revolutionary gatherings. It was here that communities learned the true meaning of unity, courage, and sacrifice.

A Weekend with Diana Gabaldon represents one of the cornerstone events in North Carolina's multi-year America 250 commemoration. It exemplifies the festival’s mission: to unite history, the arts, and community engagement in honoring more than two centuries of American resilience, innovation, and freedom.

With the First in Freedom Festival launching in February 2026, now is the time to start planning.

The North Carolina First in Freedom Festival, in partnership with Moores Creek National Battlefield, the Moores Creek Battleground Association, and supporting partners, is proud to present an exceptional two-day literary and historical experience featuring world-renowned author Diana Gabaldon, celebrated creator of the Outlander series.

Taking place February 27–28, 2026, this exclusive weekend of programs will honor the 250th anniversary of the Battle of Moores Creek Bridge, one of America’s earliest and most consequential Patriot victories.