Storyteller Willa Brigham to perform at Vance Charter School
2025-03-14 21:00 - 22:00 (America/New_York) | Vance Charter School, 2090 Ross Mill Road, Henderson, NC, 27537, United States
Emmy Award-Winning Storyteller Willa Brigham to Visit Vance Charter School
Get ready for an inspiring evening of storytelling and creativity as Two-Time Emmy Award Winner Willa Brigham visits Vance Charter School on Friday, March 14, at 9:00 PM.
Willa Brigham, a dynamic storyteller, writer, and performer, is known for her captivating stories that entertain, educate, and uplift audiences of all ages. Her engaging style and passion for the arts make this a must-attend event for students, parents, and the community.
Event Details:

Who: Willa Brigham, Two-Time Emmy Award Winner & Storyteller
When: Friday, March 14, 9:00 PM
Where: Vance Charter School
Admission: Free and open to the public

Presented By:
This special event is sponsored by the Vance County Arts Council through a grant from the North Carolina Arts Council, a Division of Natural and Cultural Resources. Their support helps bring enriching cultural experiences to the community, celebrating the power of storytelling and the arts.
Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to experience the magic of storytelling with Willa Brigham! Join us for an unforgettable evening filled with words, wisdom, and wonder.

Shamrocks on Breckenridge 2025
2025-03-17 17:00 - 19:00 | Downtown Henderson, NC
Shamrocks on Breckenridge – A Fun and Free St. Patrick’s Celebration in Downtown Henderson!
Get ready for a festive evening filled with food, fun, and music at Shamrocks on Breckenridge in Downtown Henderson! This free community event will take place on Monday, March 17, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM, bringing St. Patrick’s Day spirit to the heart of the city.
The first 200 attendees will receive a complimentary meal, including a hot dog, chips, cookie, and a drink—so be sure to arrive early!
Enjoy great music and entertainment by DJ Brian Dawson, creating the perfect atmosphere to celebrate the holiday with family and friends.
A variety of food options will also be available from Bun on the Run Food Truck, offering delicious bites to satisfy your cravings.
Sponsors & Community Support
This exciting event is made possible by the support of local organizations and sponsors, including:

Gateway CDC
North Carolina Arts Council
Vance County Arts Council
City of Henderson, North Carolina
WIZS 100.1 FM / 1450 AM – Your Community Voice

Join us for an evening of community, celebration, and fun as we bring a touch of Irish luck to Henderson! Whether you’re coming for the food, music, or festive atmosphere, Shamrocks on Breckenridge promises to be a fantastic way to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day.

Make Music Day Saturday June 21, 2025
2025-06-21 10:00 - 22:00
Vance County is set to join a global celebration of music this summer as it hosts Make Music Day on Saturday, June 21, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. This free, international event will bring together musicians of all ages and skill levels for a full day of public performances and music-making throughout the community.
Vance County is one of only thirteen counties in North Carolina selected to participate in this international celebration. Originating in France in 1982, Make Music Day has expanded to over 100 countries and nearly 6,000 cities worldwide, including Paris, Lagos, and cities across China. In the United States alone, more than 120 cities participate, contributing to over 3,800 free public performances and generating over 300 million media impressions annually.
This event offers a unique opportunity for the community to enjoy and engage with live music in public spaces, from sidewalks to parks and storefronts. Whether you’re a seasoned performer or someone who just enjoys sharing music with others, Make Music Day is open to all.
Sponsor Opportunities Available
Local businesses and organizations are encouraged to support this event through a range of sponsorship levels:

Grand Piano – $2,500Includes logo on website, social media mention, dedication blast, call-out on stage, and event signage.

Cello – $1,000Includes logo on website, social media mention, dedication blast, and call-out on stage.

Snare Drum – $500Includes logo on website, social media mention, and dedication blast.

Saxophone – $250Includes logo on website and social media mention.

Kazoo – $100Logo on website only.

These sponsorships not only support a vibrant community event but also provide visibility to businesses and organizations dedicated to the arts.
Get Involved
To sign up to perform or to learn more about sponsoring Make Music Day Vance County, please contact:
Dr. Alice C. SallinsPhone: 252-767-4579
Make Music Day is a global celebration of community and creativity, and Vance County is proud to be a part of it. Don’t miss this chance to share in the joy of music on June 21.

Holiday Downtown Window Decorating Contest 2025
2025-11-17 12:00 - 2025-12-05 17:00 | Downtown Henderson, NC
The City of Henderson Downtown Development Commission invites you to share your holiday spirit in the 2025 Window Decorating Contest. Help brighten our downtown as shoppers and visitors enjoy creative seasonal displays throughout the day and into the evening.
Participants are encouraged to design their most festive window scenes. Judging will be based on creativity, originality, and overall theme. Windows will be viewed during both daylight and nighttime hours, so be sure your display shines at any time.
Prizes will be awarded as Visa gift cards
First Place 100 dollars
Second Place 50 dollars
Third Place 25 dollars
Windows should be fully decorated by Friday, December 5. To enter, complete the contest form with your name, the address of the decorated window, and a telephone number, then email it to alicevc2002@yahoo.com
Entry form is here! https://vanceartscouncil.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/2025-Window-Decorating-Contest.pdf
For more information, call Alice at 252 767 4579.

Tidings of Comfort and Joy 2025
2025-11-29 16:00 - 18:00 | McGregor Hall, 201 Breckenridge Street, Henderson, NC, 27536, United States
For ten years, Tidings of Comfort and Joy has been bringing the community together in celebration of the season. This free pre-Christmas show will take place at McGregor Hall on Saturday, November 29 at 4:00 pm, and we are inviting you to join us as a presenting sponsor or advertising partner.
Your support will put your company or group in front of a wide audience through event promotions online, on Facebook, and in our full-color printed program book distributed to all attendees. It is a powerful opportunity to align your name with an event that uplifts, entertains, and inspires.
The Vance County Arts Council, a nonprofit organization, is proud to present this annual gift to the community. Our mission is to provide quality multicultural programming free of charge, with a special focus on school-aged children, at-risk youth, adults with disabilities, and the public as a whole. Contributions from sponsors and advertisers make it possible to hire artists, purchase program materials, and secure welcoming spaces for our audiences.
The Arts Council also receives annual funding from the North Carolina Arts Council, which requires us to match every dollar with local support. Through this, we are able to award Grassroots Subgrants to organizations that enrich our region with art programs. Perry Memorial Library, for example, has used these funds to host the Annual Storytelling Festival year after year.
Join us in sustaining the tradition of Tidings of Comfort and Joy and help us share the magic of the arts with our community.

Message from Fundraising Committee

How You Can Get Involved
We are offering several ways for individuals, families, and businesses to participate. Please review the forms below to choose the opportunity that works best for you.
1. Souvenir Program Book Ad Form
Promote your business, organization, or family by purchasing an advertisement in our full-color printed program. Every attendee receives a copy of this keepsake booklet, making it a meaningful way to reach the community while supporting the arts.

Souvenir Program Book Ad Form

2. 2025 Holiday Pageant Participation Form
Parents may enter their children in the Holiday Pageant for a chance to shine on stage and take part in exciting activities. By signing, you also grant permission for your child to be photographed and videoed for Arts Council promotion.
Highlights include:• Professional photos on Saturday, November 8 at 1:00 pm at 2114 North Woodland Rd, Henderson (please wear “Sunday Best”)• Each contestant must raise at least $100 to be on the court• Ads and funds due Saturday, November 8 by 1:00 pm• Every contestant receives a gift bag and a gift presented from the stage• All contestants ride the VCAC float in the Henderson Christmas Parade on Saturday, December 2 (line up at Walgreens by 1:15 pm)• The top two female and two male winners receive 10% of the funds they raise in addition to other items• Contestants must arrive at McGregor Hall by 3:30 pm on November 29 for group pictures before the concert• Pageant winners will be crowned during the Tidings of Comfort and Joy concert at McGregor Hall

2025 Holiday Pageant Participation Form

3. Holiday Royal Pageant Fundraiser Form
Support the Holiday Pageant by agreeing to sell raffle tickets. This form ensures accountability for tickets and funds. Participants are financially responsible for returning all tickets, unsold tickets, and cash collected. In the event of lost or stolen tickets or funds, reimbursement to the Vance County Arts Council will be required.

Holiday Royal Pageant Fundraiser Form]

Henderson, NC Christmas Parade 2025
2025-12-06 14:30 - 16:00 | Downtown Henderson, NC
The Vance County Arts Council is pleased to announce the return of the Downtown Henderson Christmas Parade on Saturday, December 6, 2025. This annual event brings the community together to celebrate the holiday season with music, floats, and festive spirit in downtown Henderson.
Parade Details
The parade will begin at 2:30 PM in downtown Henderson.
Floats, fire trucks, and vehicles with trailers should line up on Raleigh Road (at Burger King) between 1:15 PM and 1:40 PM.
All other parade entries should arrive between 1:30 PM and no later than 2:00 PM.
The parade will conclude on Rose Avenue. Parents should pick up children in the courthouse parking lot on Rose Avenue after the parade.
Participate in the Parade
REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED!
Community participation is the heart of this event. We invite:
Local businesses and community organizations
Schools, marching bands, and dance teams
Churches, civic groups, and neighborhood associations
Fire departments, classic cars, and festive floats
A PDF registration form is available for download below:
https://vanceartscouncil.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Christmas-Parade-2025-Rules-and-Regulations-2.pdf
Please complete and return it along with your entry fee by the deadline below.
Entry Deadline
All entry forms and fees must be received by Saturday, November 22, 2025.
Please note that no one will be allowed to participate without an entry form submitted by the deadline.
Professional Floats
Professional floats are available through Triangle Float Company.
Contact Mark Harris at trianglefloats@yahoo.com
or 919-410-5543 for details.
Contact Information
For additional information, contact:
Dr. Alice Clark Sallins, Parade Organizer
252-767-4579
The parade lineup has been set:
Henderson 2025 Christmas Parade Line up
1. Vance County High School ROTC
2. Police Chief Marcus Barrows
3. Retired Officer Vaughn
4. Sheriff’s Office
5. Sheriff’s Office
6. Mayor of Henderson: Melissa Elliot
7. Mayors Escorts (6)
8. City of Henderson Float
9. Vance County Government Float
10. Vance County Tourism Truck
11. Vance County Schools Float
12. E.O. Young School Float
13. E.O. Young School Marchers
14. Vance County Arts Council Float
15. Vance County Arts Council Truck
16. Dabney Elementary School
17. Dabney Elementary School Marchers
18. Fred’s Towing & Transport (2)
19. Vance County High School Administration Float
20. Badd Boys & Lady Badd Boys Social Club Truck
21. Badd Boys & Lady Badd Boys Social Club Marchers
22. Pride Of Vance #1263
23. Pride Of Vance #1263
24. Pride Of Vance #1263 Marchers
25. Dabney Elementary School Float
26. Dabney Elementary School Marchers
27. Karolina Slumpazz (UDQ)
28. Karolina Slumpazz (UDQ) Marchers
29. Henderson Collegiate High School Pride Band
30. Politeness Childcare Center
31. Campaign to Elect Eriz Burwell
32. Vance County Middle School Cheerleaders Marchers
33. Purple Admonition Band Float/Band
34. Elect Kelly Wade Perdue District 4 Vance County Commissioner 2026
35. The Sledge Institute (school) Elementary & Middle School Float
36. The Sledge Institute (school) Elementary & Middle Marchers
37. Gamma Kappa Sigma Alumni Chapter Float
38. Nuestro Porvenir LLC Truck
39. Nuestro Porvenir LLC SUV
40. Kerr Vance Academy Float
41. Kerr Vance Academy Marchers
42. Recreation/Queen of Hearts
43. Recreation/Queen of Diamonds Marchers
44. Daisy Garden Club Float
45. Daisy Garden Club Marchers
46. Vance Aquatics Kendrah Freeman
47. FLEX Ride by KARTS Float
48. Kernal Craze
49. Marie’s Childcare Home
50. Davis Royster Funeral Service
51. Davis Royster Funeral Service
52. Sandy Ridge Elementary School Drum Line
53. Alight Funeral & Cremation Services LLC (2)
54. Alight Funeral & Cremation Services LLC (2)
55. Ballet Arts Allstars Dancers
56. Ballet Arts Marchers
57. Henderson Crime Stoppers Float
58. Fresh Anointed Tabernacle of Deliverance
59. Fresh Anointed Tabernacle of Deliverance
60. E.M. Rollins School
61. E.M. Rollins School Marchers
62. Hubzone Technology Institute Float
63. Bradley’s Heating & Cooling Home Repair
64. Pinkston Street Principal’s Advisory Council King, Queen, Prince & Princess Float
65. Pinkston Street School Marchers
66. Family United Birthday Club Float
67. Franklin Vance Warren Opportunity Bus
68. Franklin Vance Warren Opportunity Bus
69. Vance County EMS (2)
70. Bear Pond Fire Department (2)**
71. Cokesbury Fire Department (2)**
72. Drewey Fire Department**
73. Epson Fire Department**
74. Kittrell Fire Department**
75. Hicksboro Fire Department**
76. Watkins Fire Department**
77. Watkins Fire Department**
78. Perry Memorial Library Bookmobile
79. Perry Memorial Library Marchers
80. Kearah’s Place Inc / KP Bingo Truck
81. Stem Early HS Marchers
82. Vance Early College Float
83. Masonic Lodge #249
84. 4 Point O Mobile Learning Clinic, Inc Bus
85. Carver Elementary School
86. Carver Elementary School Marchers
87. Inter-Roofing Truck
88. Zeb Vance Elementary School Float
89. Zeb Vance Elementary School
90. 252 Dancers
91. 252 dancers
92. Vance County High School Marching Band
93. L.B. Yancey Elementary School
94. L.B. Yancey Elementary School Marchers
95. Boys & Girls Club (Vance)
96. North Henderson Baptist Church Float
97. Vance County High School JV & Varsity Cheerleaders
98. Vance County Schools dance Group
99. Vance County Girls Varsity Basketball
100. Clarke Elementary School
101. Clarke Elementary School Marchers
102. Aycock Elementary School
103. Aycock Elementary School
104. Zeroto60 Motorcycle Club Truck
105. Vance County Arts Council Director
106. Santa Claus

Craft Classes! Centerpiece and Other Florals for Seniors and Veterans
2025-12-17 13:00 - 15:00 | Vance County Senior Cener, 500 N Beckford Drive, Henderson, NC, 27536, United States
The Vance County Arts Council is inviting the community to a festive, hands-on floral program, “Centerpiece and Other Florals,” on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, at the Vance Senior Center. The event will begin at 1:00 p.m. and is free to the public.
Participants will learn how to design a beautiful seasonal centerpiece and explore other simple floral ideas perfect for holiday decorating or gift-giving. All basic materials will be provided, and no prior experience is necessary—just bring your creativity and a willingness to have fun.
Space is limited to the first 25 participants, so early arrival is encouraged. This program is a wonderful opportunity for seniors and community members to gather, be creative, and celebrate the season together.

Christmas Concert featuring violinist Eric Taylor at Vance Senior Center
2025-12-18 13:00 - 15:00 | Vance County Senior Cener, 500 N Beckford Drive, Henderson, NC, 27536, United States
The Vance County Arts Council invites the community to a special Christmas Concert featuring acclaimed violinist Eric Taylor on Thursday, December 18, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. The performance will take place at the Vance Senior Center and is free and open to the public.
Guests will enjoy beautiful holiday music and seasonal favorites, creating a warm and festive atmosphere perfect for celebrating the Christmas season. This program is a wonderful opportunity for seniors and community members to come together and experience live music in an intimate setting.
No tickets are required, but early arrival is encouraged for the best seating. For more information, please contact the Vance County Arts Council or the Vance Senior Center.

Valentine Crafts: For Seniors and Veterans February 12, 2026
2026-02-12 13:00 - 15:00 | Vance County Senior Cener, 500 N Beckford Drive, Henderson, NC, 27536, United States
Join us for an afternoon of creativity, connection, and fun at Valentine Crafts: For Seniors and Veterans. This welcoming program is designed especially for seniors and veterans and offers a relaxed, supportive space to make art, enjoy lighthearted activities, and spend time with others in the community.
Participants can choose from a variety of engaging activities, including:
Paint on Canvas or Wood
Create a Valentine-themed piece, a seasonal design, or something uniquely your own.
No experience needed, and all supplies will be provided.
Motivational and Mental Games
Enjoy simple, uplifting activities and games that encourage conversation, laughter, and a little friendly challenge.
All supplies provided
Whether you’re a seasoned crafter or trying something new for the first time, this event is meant to be easy to jump into. We’ll have materials on hand for both canvas and wood painting, along with guidance and encouragement throughout the session.
This program is sponsored through a grant from the Powers Foundation, helping us provide meaningful arts experiences that support wellness, creativity, and community engagement.
This event is intended for seniors and veterans. Bring a friend if you’d like, and come ready to create and have a good time.

A Celebration of African American Music and Dance February 15, 2026
2026-02-15 15:00 - 17:00 | McGregor Hall, 201 Breckenridge Street, Henderson, NC, 27536, United States
Join us for an inspiring afternoon performance that celebrates the richness, resilience, and evolution of African and African American music and dance. A Celebration of African American Music and Dance showcases the talent and spirit of our senior performers while tracing the musical journey from its African origins to the sounds and styles we recognize today.
Through live performance and movement, this program explores how rhythms, songs, and dance traditions traveled across generations, shaped communities, and influenced everything from spirituals and gospel to blues, jazz, soul, and beyond. Expect an engaging mix of music and dance that honors tradition while highlighting the living, ongoing story of cultural expression.
Featuring our seniors
This celebration proudly highlights senior participants, demonstrating that creativity and performance have no age limit. Come support their dedication, artistry, and the joy they bring to the stage.
Event details
When: Sunday, February 15, 2025 at 3:00 PM
Where: McGregor Hall Performing Arts Center, 200 Breckenridge Street
What: Music and dance performance tracing the roots of African music and its influence through today
Sponsors and support
This event is made possible through generous support from:
North Carolina Arts Council, a division of Cultural and Natural Resources
Brightspeed
A grant from the Powers Foundation
We hope you’ll join us for a meaningful, high-energy afternoon celebrating heritage, artistry, and community.
Thank you to presenting sponsor Brightspeed. Follow Brightspeed at
https://www.facebook.com/gobrightspeed
https://www.instagram.com/gobrightspeed
https://x.com/gobrightspeed
https://www.linkedin.com/company/brightspeed

The Drum Prophet - Drumming and Vocal Concert February 24, 2026
2026-02-24 13:00 - 15:00 | Vance County Senior Cener, 500 N Beckford Drive, Henderson, NC, 27536, United States
Get ready for an energizing and uplifting afternoon at the Vance Senior Center with a special Drumming and Vocal Concert featuring The Drum Prophet from Raleigh, NC. This engaging program blends live percussion and vocals into an interactive experience that’s equal parts performance, rhythm, and community connection.
Attendees can expect powerful drumming, expressive singing, and a fun, welcoming atmosphere. The concert is designed to be accessible for all—whether you’re a longtime music lover or simply looking for a refreshing midday activity. You may even find yourself clapping along, keeping time, or joining in with simple call-and-response moments as we explore rhythm together.

What to expect

Live drumming and vocals in a concert setting

A lively, positive program that encourages participation

A shared experience that brings people together through rhythm and song

Event details

When: Tuesday, February 24, 2026 at 1:00 PM

Where: Vance Senior Center

Featuring: The Drum Prophet (Raleigh, NC)

Sponsorship
This event is sponsored by the Powers Foundation in honor of Frances Abbot Powers, supporting meaningful arts programming for our community.
Come enjoy an afternoon of music, movement, and connection—no experience needed, just bring yourself and your enthusiasm.
