HEARTS Happenings
Nothing compares to immersing yourself in the past to see new perspectives.
Dancer at HEARTS Junion ‘25 event - Photo courtesy of HEARTS
Our region boasts an incredibly diverse natural and cultural history. Some stories are known, some have been lost, and some are still being discovered. HEARTS (history-ecology-arts-trails-reunion-trails-store) Happenings are events that explore these stories via place-based experiences designed to foster a shared sense of place and community by exploring what is right beneath our feet.
Juxtaposing local history and nature content with the best in homegrown music, dance, and visual arts, HEARTS Happenings are free and open to the public, with donations appreciated.
2025 marks HEARTS' fourth year of programming and its first year bringing HEARTS programs and services beyond historic Cedar Grove and the historic Hugh Torance House and Store, connecting history in Lincoln County and Iredell County, with goals to connect to more adjacent counties in the future.
‘Who’s Your Founding Father?’ author David Fleming reading at a ‘24 HEARTS event. The Mt. Zion AME Stroller Singers at a ‘23 HEARTS event. - Photos courtesy of HEARTS
Event guests during the maypole dance at HEARTS May Day ‘24 . Photo courtesy of HEARTS.
Upcoming HEARTS Events
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Guided Tours of the Historic Hugh Torance House & Store
Step back in time and experience life in the home of Hugh and Isabella Torance and their son, James Torrance's mercantile store. Our experienced docents guide visitors on a living history adventure as they tour the c.1779 homesite and visit the Torance Store.
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Ghost Tours at the Historic Hugh Torance House & Store
Do you think the oldest store in North Carolina is haunted? Join us for an authentic ghost hunt led by the experienced experts at the Charlotte Area Paranormal Society to scour this c.1779 homesite for existential activity using professional investigative tools and equipment.
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Hanging of the Greens
November 30th - 1:00PM
Join us for our annual Hanging of the Greens and help us decorate the Hugh Torance House and Store for the winter holiday!
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HEARTS Winter Wisdom '25
December 6th 2:00 -5:00 PM
Join us for our annual holiday celebration at historic Cedar Grove, featuring live music, dance, and so much more! Enjoy Cedar Grove decked out for the holidays and step back in time for winter stories from centuries past in the Piedmont.
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Traditional Holiday Craft
December 7th - 1:00PM
Join us for a seasonal treat! Let’s make traditional holiday crafts at the Hugh Torance House and Store!
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Deck the Soles for Pottstown
December 12th at 6:00 PM
Step into the holiday in style at Deck the Soles, a festive evening blending community and purpose to support Pottstown’s Heritage & Cares programs! Guests are invited to dress up their sneakers and enjoy an unforgettable night filled with music, dancing, seasonal cheer, and giving back.
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Feasting and Caroling
December 14th - 1:00PM
Join us for a seasonal treat! Watch a colonial cooking demonstration and sing along with carolers at the Hugh Torance House and Store!