Add Row
Add Element
UPDATE
Add Element
  • Home
  • Categories
    • Things to Do
    • Local Business News
    • Retire Well
    • Movers
    • Med + Tech
    • Neighborhoods
    • Military Moves
    • Local Loves
    • Explore NC
  • Business Directory
    • Greater Raleigh Area Business Directory
    • Greater Chapel Hill Area Business Directory
    • Greater Durham Area Business Directory
  • Hometown Highlights
    • Greater Durham Area Hometown Highlights
    • Greater Chapel Hill Area Hometown Highlights
    • Greater Raleigh Area Hometown Highlights
  • Hometown Hightlights Insider
    • JoAnn Stewart
Add Element
  • update
  • update
  • update
  • update
  • update
  • update
  • update
May 21.2025
3 Minutes Read

Join Us in Remembering Our Heroes at the Orange County Veterans Memorial Day Ceremony

Whimsical dinosaur with glasses and city skyline at night.

Honoring Our Heroes: A Community Tradition

In the heart of Orange County, the annual Veterans Memorial Day Ceremony serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by America's servicemen and women. This year, the ceremony will take place on Monday, May 26, 2025, from 8:45 a.m. to 10:15 a.m. at the Veterans Memorial Site located at 2501 Homestead Drive, Chapel Hill, North Carolina. Open to the community, this solemn tribute invites everyone to come together to honor those who have given their lives in service to our country.

A Ceremony to Remember

The day will commence with a posting of colors by the Orange County Sheriff’s Office Color Guard, expertly guided by Investigator Pat Gilchrist. This will be followed by an invocation led by Reverend Dr. George I. Allison, setting a respectful tone for the occasion. The Town of Chapel Hill Mayor Jessica Anderson will welcome attendees and alongside Carrboro Mayor Barbara Foushee and North Carolina Representative Renée A. Price, will recognize Gold Star families—those who have lost loved ones in military service.

Keynote Speaker and Special Guests

This year’s keynote address will be delivered by Brigadier General Arnold Gordon-Bray, United States Army, Retired, whose distinguished service and leadership make him a notable speaker for such an important event. In addition to General Gordon-Bray, other distinguished guests will also reflect on the importance of this day, including Lt. Col. David Terrell and Captain Bruce Runberg. The wreath-laying ceremony is a powerful moment that reminds participants of the ultimate sacrifice made by so many, conducted by Colonel David Chandler amidst a backdrop of respect and solemnity.

Inspirational Moments and Local Participation

The emotional weight of the day will culminate with the sound of Taps performed by Edward H. Gill of American Legion Post 6, echoing the sentiments of a grateful community. Refreshments will be provided by Orange County, fostering an environment of connection and shared remembrance after the formalities have concluded. This traditional gathering not only serves to pause and reflect but also strengthens the bond within the community, reminding participants of the values that underpin their shared heritage.

Why Attend?

This year’s ceremony is more than just a commemoration; it’s a chance for the residents of Chapel Hill and surrounding areas to reaffirm their commitment to honor those who served. It's a reminder that freedoms enjoyed today come at a price, and by attending, you show solidarity with veterans and their families. Taking part in local events like this helps foster a greater appreciation for those who volunteered to protect and serve.

Get Involved and Celebrate the Weekend

The Veterans Memorial Day Ceremony is just one of many activities the greater Triangle area offers. As part of Memorial Day Weekend celebrations, consider exploring cultural festivals, concerts, and various outdoor activities with family and friends. For those seeking a deeper connection, local farmers markets, hiking trails, and arts exhibitions present opportunities to engage with the community while enjoying the beautiful Southern spring.

Mark your calendar for May 26, 2025, and join us for a memorial that resonates with history, community, and honor. Don’t forget to also explore other Memorial Day Weekend events happening throughout the Triangle to celebrate our community and its vibrant culture.

Local Loves

6 Views

0 Comments

Write A Comment

*
*
Related Posts All Posts
10.05.2025

Experience the Magic of Día de Oakwood: A Cultural Celebration Unfolds in Raleigh

Update Celebrating Life and Remembrance: Día de Oakwood Every year, the vibrant festival of Día de Muertos, or Day of the Dead, draws communities together to remember and celebrate loved ones who have passed. This year, from October 25 to November 2, 2025, Historic Oakwood Cemetery in Raleigh, North Carolina, will come alive with the rich culture and traditions of this beautiful event. The Día de Oakwood festival showcases large scale ofrendas, which are altars dedicated to honoring the deceased, along with family-oriented activities that cater to attendees of all ages. A Rich Tapestry of Cultural Events This celebration is not just about remembering the past but also about embracing community Spirit. The highlight of this festivity includes the Día de Oakwood 5K and Street Festival on Saturday, October 25, which promises a day filled with music, dance, food, and art. Visitors can engage with local artists and performers, learn about the significance of the ofrendas, and even contribute their personal offerings such as flowers or photographs. Family-Friendly Activities Await The festivities provide perfect opportunities for families to bond and learn more about their cultural heritage. On November 1, the screening of Disney's Coco will enchant attendees of all ages while reinforcing the importance of family and ancestry – the core themes of Día de Muertos. With food trucks on-site, guests can enjoy delicious snacks while celebrating. The Grand Finale: Catrina Parade The celebration culminates on November 2 with the Catrina Parade, where participants don elaborate Catrina attire—a representation of the elegant skeleton figures that symbolize the Día de Muertos. This festive parade marches from the cemetery entrance to the ofrenda installation, creating a stunning visual spectacle that brings everyone together in love and remembrance. Get Involved If you’re eager to be part of a unique community experience, mark your calendar for these dates and make plans to attend! Each event is free to the public, and this is a wonderful opportunity to engage with the greater Triangle area’s cultural festivities. As we commemorate those who have left us, let’s also celebrate our community, our heritage, and our connections to one another. Don’t wait—join the festivities at Día de Oakwood and experience the joy and color of this meaningful cultural festival.

10.04.2025

Experience the Spookiest Halloween Light Displays in the Triangle!

Update Unleash Your Halloween Spirit with Triangle’s Best Light Displays! As October rolls around, the Triangle area isn’t just buzzing with the crunch of falling leaves; it’s alive with the vibrant glow of Halloween spirit! Families across Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill are embracing the spooky season by adorning their homes with elaborate light displays that are rivaling the Christmas cheer we’re used to. Gone are the days when October was merely a prelude to November festivities. Halloween has emerged as a full-blown spectacle in its own right! Top Halloween Displays You Can’t Miss! Whether you’re a pumpkin patch purist or a haunted house enthusiast, there’s something for everyone. From animated skeletons to family-friendly walk-throughs, here are some highlights of the best Halloween houses in the Triangle: 1. Deadford Manor - 10839 Bedfordtown Drive, Raleigh, NC Kick off your Halloween excursion with a visit to Deadford Manor. This is not just any display; it’s a singing skeleton show featuring playful animatronics that burst into song! Each year introduces a fresh theme, transforming this spooky haven into something new and fun. Don’t just show up; check out their Facebook page for showtimes starting October 10, 2025! Plus, you can support their fundraiser for St. Jude. 2. Holidays on Boone Street - 358 Boone Street, Chapel Hill, NC If you’re hunting for a haunting experience combined with a dazzling light show, look no further! Holidays on Boone Street features both Halloween and Christmas displays, ensuring your seasonal spirit is kept high all year round. Come by any evening after 7 PM starting October 2, 2025, and be prepared to be impressed! 3. Edward’s Battle Haunted House - 9401 S. Mere Court, Raleigh, NC This incredible home haunt comes with a story as touching as its decorations. Edward’s Battle was created by a resilient teen battling cancer, with a mission that transcends scares: donations are accepted for kids' cancer charities. Their first night's festivities will kick off on October 18, 2025. Show your support and spread the word! 4. Dreaded Meadow - 1007 Dresden Meadow, Cary, NC For the thrill-seekers, Dreaded Meadow offers a walk-through attraction that gets scarier the deeper you venture! Perfect for families, they also provide safe spots for younger kids along the pathway. Keep an eye on their Facebook page for updates on this spine-chilling journey! 5. The Halloween House in Oakwood - 504 Oakwood Avenue, Raleigh, NC A staple in Raleigh’s Halloween scene, this home offers an awe-inspiring array of life-sized Halloween characters and intricate decorations. If you’re in town for trick-or-treating, this is a must-visit destination! Expect to be enchanted by the sheer creativity and spirit of the season. 6. Skeletons for St. Jude This grassroots endeavor invites locals to decorate their yards with enormous skeletons while encouraging donations to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital. It’s a unified way to enjoy the spooky season while giving back to a worthy cause – and who doesn’t love a little friendly skeleton competition? Respectful Viewing Etiquette As you plan your Halloween pilgrimage, remember that these decorations are set up by private homeowners. So grab your friends and family, but please respect their property and be considerate to neighbors while enjoying this spooky extravaganza! As you stroll through the Triangle this October, be sure to take a moment to appreciate the innocent joy and creativity that these local families bring forth every Halloween. Celebrate the season, share smiles, and create memories with your loved ones. The Triangle area is alive with spirits—both ghastly and charitable! Stay tuned for updates as more spooktacular displays come to life! Don’t forget, these displays are an exciting family-friendly activity—perfect for making family traditions. Happy Halloween!

10.03.2025

Unlock Affordable Broadway Shows: Student Rush Tickets at DPAC!

Update Discounted Broadway Magic Returns to the Triangle Great news for theater-loving students in Durham and beyond! The Durham Performing Arts Center (DPAC) is excited to announce the return of Student Rush tickets for its much-anticipated 2025/2026 Broadway season. Kicking off this special offering is the classic musical, The Sound of Music, which runs from October 7 through October 12, 2025. At just $30 plus tax, these tickets are an affordable option for students eager to experience the magic of live theater. How It Works: A First-Come, First-Serve Experience Student Rush tickets are available exclusively for in-person purchase at DPAC’s Blue Cross NC Ticket Center, located at 123 Vivian Street, Durham. Tickets go on sale in the morning of each participating show, and they are available for that day’s performance only. Students can purchase up to two tickets per valid Student ID, making it a fantastic way to spend an evening enjoying local culture with friends or family! A Tradition of Accessibility DPAC's initiative to offer Student Rush tickets follows a longstanding tradition seen in major theater hubs like New York City, where students have access to discounted prices, allowing a wider audience to enjoy top-notch productions. This initiative not only makes Broadway shows more accessible but also promotes the arts in the community, fostering a love for the theater among younger audiences. The Experience is One to Remember Attending a Broadway show at DPAC is more than just enjoying a performance; it's about immersing oneself in local culture and community spirit, something that resonates with students from various backgrounds. The emotional journey that musicals like The Sound of Music take you on, combined with the thrill of watching talented performers live on stage, creates unforgettable memories. The sense of shared experience and the joy of discovery make theater attendance a valuable pursuit. Verification is Key! As with any great offer, it's critical to double-check the availability of Student Rush tickets before heading out. While DPAC strives to maintain accurate information, there may be changes to availability without notice. It's a good habit to verify everything on DPAC's website or through direct contact with the theater to ensure a smooth experience. Why This Matters to You For those living in and around the greater Triangle area, taking advantage of these discounted tickets means more than just saving money; it’s about engaging with local art and culture. Beyond theater, the Triangle is rich with events, concerts, and seasonal activities that allow residents to connect deeply with their community. Supporting local arts reflects a commitment to vibrant cultural experiences right at your doorstep. Seize the opportunity to explore DPAC’s offerings! Whether you’re a student or just a fan hoping to relive fond memories, these Student Rush tickets bring the enchantment of Broadway closer to home. It's an exceptional time to get involved with the local arts scene and make lasting memories.

Terms of Service

Privacy Policy

Core Modal Title

Sorry, no results found

You Might Find These Articles Interesting

T
Please Check Your Email
We Will Be Following Up Shortly
*
*
*