Visit These 12 Incredible Charming Small Towns in North Carolina, One for Each Month of the Year

From the icy mountaintops to historic districts and salty beaches, you'll find something to celebrate in each of these twelve unbelievably charming small towns in North Carolina. The state is full of creative-minded and generous people who invent ways to captivate its residents and attract visitors while making their every day extraordinary. Each morning the world is new here so make a wish list and come and discover. While the options are endless, here is but a sampling of what you can expect from these lovely towns this year.

1. January: Cary

Cary is chock-full of charming local businesses and delightful restaurants. It's also home to the USA Baseball National Training Complex. The Town of Cary's event page on its website is so full, that it's difficult to choose which ones to enjoy. The mind-blowing North Carolina Chinese Lantern Festival takes place in January.

2. February: Morehead City

A stunning shoreline and bountiful recreational opportunities draw many visitors to Morehead City each year. Parrott's on Eleventh is an adored neighborhood restaurant located in the historic Phillips Bell house, offering southern hospitality, and an ever-changing menu with cuisine containing locally sourced ingredients. And about two miles away, visit Atlantic Beach.

3. March: Carrboro

Nestled within the Piedmont, Carrboro is equidistant between the mountains and the sea, offering convenient access to it all. To be sure, the Carrboro Annual Kite Fly at Hank Anderson Community Park, only two miles away in Chapel Hill, must be the most joyful event in the world, what with the spirited wind whipping you and your kite around.

4. April: Wilmington

There's so much to love about the vibrant waterfront destination of Wilmington, NC. Plus, there is nothing quite like a sunset in the springtime on Carolina Beach, just a hop, skip, and a jump from Wilmington.

5. May: Salisbury

Salisbury is the oldest continuously populated colonial town in Western NC. Plus, it's also home to an unforgettable spring festival. Bring out your inner flower child, and some crocheted or tie-dyed clothing for the annual Hippie Fest.

6. June: Madison

Did you know June is lavender season? Frogholler Lavender Farm celebrates during the two weeks when the blooms are at their best. Be there to pick the fragrant stems. And while you're there, sign up for a class to make your own wreath or wand.

7. July: Lake Junaluska

Lake Junaluska’s annual Independence Day Celebration is an entire weekend of fun, including floating wish lanterns, concerts, and fireworks.

8. August: Elkin

Located beside the Yadkin River in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Elkin offers lots to explore. Need a place to stay? Three Trails Unit 3 is a two-bedroom cool space with a modern warehouse vibe located on Main Street in downtown Elkin.

9. September: Ramseur

Wake up with a large country-fried steak, egg, and cheese biscuit from the Biscuit Co. And it wouldn't be September without picking some crunchy apples at Millstone Creek Orchards!

10. October: Hendersonville

A Farm Fun Day will take place this month at the Historic Johnson Farm. Children can play games and make crafts, pet the farm animals, and everyone can take a wagon ride. Look for the Lady on the Courthouse balcony, and learn about the unsolved triple homicide at Haunts of Hendo. And better yet, find out about the figures who roam the curb market lot. This haunted tour will keep you captivated and holding tight to someone's hand.

11. November: Warrenton

Open for breakfast and lunch, Drip Coffee + Market will warm you up in the morning with some homemade cinnamon rolls with thick, creamy icing. Before you leave, Quilt Lizzy is worth visiting to see the vast inventory and helpful staff.

12. December: Dillsboro

Last but not least, a trip to Dillsboro is a wonderful way to round out your year. The Dillsboro Lights & Luminaries event lights up the enchanted artisan village the first two weekends in December. More than 2,500 candles line the streets in white bags.

Did one of these 12 charming towns in North Carolina interest you? And here is a list of some beautiful rural towns in North Carolina. Which are your favorite small towns in North Carolina? Be sure to send this article to someone you'd love to go exploring with! And don't forget to check out this handy list of road trip essentials before your next driving adventure.