Here we are
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.
Across eight counties, communities are coming together to recognize our shared history, highlight the places where freedom first took root, and celebrate the people who shaped our nation.
Eastern North Carolina is home to some of the earliest calls for independence and pivotal Revolutionary War moments. From the battlefield at Moores Creek National Battlefield — where patriots secured an early and decisive victory — to the colonial capital at Tryon Palace, where governance and revolutionary ideas evolved, our region’s roots run deep.
Historic sites like Brunswick Town/Fort Anderson State Historic Site remind us that the fight for freedom wasn’t confined to one moment in time — it spanned generations and shaped the identity of our coastal communities.
A Week of History in Action
Throughout the week, residents and visitors can experience:
-Historical reenactments and living history demonstrations
-Educational programs and lectures
-Art, music, and cultural performances
-Tours of significant Revolutionary-era landmarks
-Community celebrations honoring local heritage
This festival isn’t just about looking back — it’s about recognizing how 250 years of courage, leadership, and resilience continue to shape who we are today.
From courthouse squares to waterfront towns, from historic homes to public parks, eastern North Carolina is telling America’s story — one community at a time.
