Art Take In: Dwight Dennis Memorial Photography Exhibition & Competition
2026-02-20 12:00 - 16:00, 2026-02-21 10:00 - 16:00 (America/New_York) | Stanly Arts Guild & Gallery, 152 West Main St., Albemarle, NC, 28001
We have so many talented photographers in our area! Several years ago The Guild added an annual photography competition and exhibition to show off their talents. Sometimes the annual show will involve a particular theme, while other years will employ a “photographer’s choice” to allow photographers to enter photos of any subject they prefer. After all, we’ve all have our favorite topics.
In 2021, we lost one of our amazing photographer members, and the annual photography show now carries his name in memoriam. Dwight J. Dennis was always a huge supporter of our members, our community, and The Guild. He was a cheerleader for all our shows, but this one had a special place in his heart, since photography was his passion. The annual photography show is now entitled: Dwight J. Dennis Memorial Photography Exhibition and Competition.
Awarded prizes are 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 2 honorable mentions. Prize money will be $300 for 1st place, $200 for 2nd place & $100 for 3rd place. Honorable Mentions may be given at the judge’s discretion. All entries must be no more than 5 years old and must not have previously won a ribbon in a Stanly Arts Guild show. In 2026, this show will be on display at The Stanly Arts Guild from February 24th thru March 21st.

ART TAKE IN: Dwight J. Dennis Memorial Photography Exhibition and Competition
2026-02-21 10:00 - 16:00 | Stanly Arts Guild & Gallery, 152 West Main St., Albemarle, NC, 28001
We have so many talented photographers in our area! Several years ago The Guild added an annual photography competition and exhibition to show off their talents. Sometimes the annual show will involve a particular theme, while other years will employ a “photographer’s choice” to allow photographers to enter photos of any subject they prefer. After all, we’ve all have our favorite topics. In 2021, we lost one of our amazing photographer members, and the annual photography show now carries his name in memoriam.
Awarded prizes are 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 2 honorable mentions. Prize money will be $300 for 1st place, $200 for 2nd place & $100 for 3rd place. Honorable Mentions may be given at the judge’s discretion. All entries must be no more than 5 years old and must not have previously won a ribbon in a Stanly Arts Guild show. In 2026, this show will be on display at The Stanly Arts Guild from February 24th thru March 21st.

The Uwharrie Players presents "The True Story of the 3 Little Pigs!" (Theatre for Young Audiences)
2026-02-27 19:00 - 20:00, 2026-02-28 10:00 - 11:00, 2026-02-28 15:00 - 16:00, 2026-03-01 15:00 - 16:00 | Albemarle Neighborhood Theatre, 219 E. North Street, Albemarle, NC, 28001
There are two sides to every story, and when the Big, Bad Wolf takes the stand in Piggsylvania’s Trial of the Century, he finally gets his say. But whether he’ll get a fair trial in a corrupt piggy court is anyone’s guess. Will the pigs’ splashy puppet show make a puppet out of justice, or is the wolf’s catchy song and dance about a sneeze gone wrong all razzle-dazzle? Enter the jury box and decide the fate of Big ‘n’ Bad in this musical adaptation of the hit children’s book.

Stanly Arts Guild presents Dwight J. Dennis Memorial Photography Exhibition and Competition
2026-02-28 10:00 - 16:00, 2026-03-07 10:00 - 16:00, 2026-03-14 10:00 - 16:00, 2026-03-21 10:00 - 16:00 | Stanly Arts Guild & Gallery, 152 West Main St., Albemarle, NC, 28001
We have so many talented photographers in our area!
Several years ago The Guild added an annual photography competition and exhibition to show off their talents. Sometimes the annual show would involve a particular theme, while other years will employ a “photographer’s choice” to allow photographers to enter photos of any subject they prefer. After all, we’ve all have our favorite topics.
Awarded prizes are 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 2 honorable mentions. Prize money will be $300 for 1st place, $200 for 2nd place & $100 for 3rd place. Honorable Mentions may be given at the judge’s discretion. All entries must be no more than 5 years old and must not have previously won a ribbon in a Stanly Arts Guild show.
Sponsors of this show are: Starnes Bramlett Jewelers and RLM Ventures
2026 Judge: William Dixon, Jr whose work can be viewed at: Cheetah1.smugmug.com
This show will be on display at The Stanly Arts Guild at their NEW LOCATION, 152 W Main St, Albemarle — Come on by!
This Exhibition will be on display until March 21, 2026.

Celebration of the ARTS
2026-03-21 09:00 - 14:00 | Stanly County Agri-Civic Center, 26032 Newt Rd # B, Albemarle, NC
A FREE event open to the public to learn more about the arts in Stanly County.
Student Art Show: Come view the county-wide student art show, showcasing the best from each elementary, middle, and high school in Stanly County plus work from the advertising, graphic design, and simulation and game animation students from Stanly Community College. A list of participants will be shared shortly.
Artisans: a variety of artisans will have booths demonstrating their craft as well as selling their creations. A list of demonstrating artists will be shared shortly.
Information Booths: Each arts organization will have a booth to promote their upcoming events as well as recruit new members or volunteers. Arts-based businesses will be there selling their goods or available to answer questions about lessons, etc. A full list of exhibitors will be shared shortly.
Live Performances: Performances from choirs, bands, dance and theatre troupes will entertain audiences throughout the day in the auditorium as well as the lobby. The schedule will be shared shortly.
Creation Station: an opportunity to create your own art to take home with you! Learn water color techniques, how to combine colors while creating 3D sculpture with Model Magic clay, create a rhythm instrument, and more.
Local Authors: Meet local authors and peruse & purchase books they have written. A list of participating authors will be shared shortly.
Raffles: a chance to support the arts while taking a chance on winning great prizes
Awards Ceremony: at 1:45 pm we will announce the winners of the America 250 Art Contest, plus the 2026 Arts Person and Fine Arts Teacher of the Year! Don’t miss it!

Special thanks to our sponsors:
Uwharrie Bank
Juneberry Ridge
Creation Station: T.R. Lawing Realty & Atrium Health Stanly

82nd Airborne Division Band & Chorus present "This We'll Defend: The All American Story"
2026-03-22 15:00 - 17:00 | Stanly County Agri-Civic Center, 26032 Newt Rd # B, Albemarle, NC
The Stanly County Concert Association is proud to invite the community to celebrate America and our Army’s 250th birthday with the 82nd Airborne Division Band and Chorus, as they present “This We’ll Defend: The All American Story,” a musical tribute to our nation. Since the Revolutionary War, “This We’ll Defend” has remained the motto of the United States Army. It speaks to the resolve of those who serve, from the Greatest Generation, to today's Soldiers stationed all around the world. Celebrate this great nation and those who are sworn to protect it, as we honor military service—past, present, and future—through music and storytelling by the All American Band and Chorus.
Since this unit’s founding in 1942, these active-duty Paratroopers continue to connect America to its Army by telling the Army Story and honoring Soldiers and Veterans as the Musical Ambassadors of the 82nd Airborne Division.
Before the concert begins at 4:00 p.m., small ensembles will be performing in the lobby to welcome guests. These preconcert performances will continue until 3:40 p.m., when the auditorium doors open for seating.
This promises to be an exciting and inspirational musical celebration for all!
Tickets are required, but they are free for everyone. You may pick them up at Starnes Jewelers or the Stanly County AgriCivic Center, and they will also be available at the door on the day of the event. Members of the Stanly County Concert Association may use their season tickets for admission. In addition, on Saturday, March 21st, during the Celebration of the Arts at the AgriCivic Center, Concert Association members will be on hand to give tickets to anyone interested in attending.

Sponsored by the Stanly County Concert Association, Uwharrie Bank in conjunction with the America 250 NC Stanly County committee.

Stanly Arts Guild presents Youth Art Show
2026-03-24 - 2026-04-11 | Stanly Arts Guild & Gallery, 152 West Main St., Albemarle, NC, 28001
This show is for Artists between the ages of 9 and 17 years old. Prizes are awarded for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Places in two ages categories: ages 9-12, and ages 13-17.

The Stanly County Concert Association presents "Salisbury Symphony Brass"
2026-04-12 16:00 - 18:00 | Stanly County Agri-Civic Center, 26032 Newt Rd # B, Albemarle, NC
Brass Favorites: from Renaissance to Modern and Pops to Gospel
The Salisbury Symphony Brass is a quintet featuring musicians from the Salisbury Symphony Orchestra. Their performances bring the energy and artistry of symphonic storytelling to intimate venues throughout the Piedmont region. The ensemble’s seamless rapport is a testament to their shared experience performing together with the Salisbury Symphony. Showcasing a diverse repertoire—from Renaissance masterpieces to works by contemporary composers, as well as lively arrangements of popular and gospel music—this concert promises something for everyone to enjoy!

This is the final concert of the 2025-2026 Season of the Stanly County Concert Association.
Single tickets may be purchased for each individual concert for $25 for adult and $10 for student.
If you are not already a member, please consider becoming a member for our 2026-2027 season. Available memberships are:

Adult: $80
Student: $25
Family (1 adult and children under age 18): $90
Family (2 adults and children under age 18):$170
Contact the Stanly County Concert Association for prorated membership fees.

The Uwharrie Players presents Now and Then
2026-04-17 19:30 - 21:30, 2026-04-19 15:00 - 17:00, 2026-04-24 19:30 - 21:30, 2026-04-25 19:30 - 21:30, 2026-04-26 15:00 - 17:00 | Albemarle Neighborhood Theatre, 219 E. North Street, Albemarle, NC, 28001
Sometimes what happens after last call just might change your life. One night in 1981, just as Jamie is closing the bar where he works, a desperate last-minute customer offers him and his girlfriend Abby two thousand dollars to sit and have a drink with him. Who wouldn’t take it? As the trio swaps stories and Jamie considers the decisions he faces about his musical career and his future with his girlfriend Abby, the young couple begins to realize that this older man is unusually invested in their choices… and the reason he gives them is completely unbelievable. But when a very displeased second stranger arrives, the unbelievable begins to look like it just might be true. Now and Then is a heartfelt romantic comedy about the costs of the choices we make, and the people who make them with us.

Living History Day
2026-04-18 13:00 - 16:00 | Historic 1852 Isaiah Snuggs House, 112 N. Third Street, Albemarle, NC, 28001, United States
Join the Stanly County History Center and the Stanly County Historical Society for an immersive journey into the past on Saturday, April 18, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM. This exciting afternoon of heritage and community takes place on the historic grounds of the 1852 Isaiah Snuggs House and the Freeman-Marks House, located at 112 N. Third St. in the heart of Downtown Albemarle. This event is free to the public and serves as a featured highlight of the America 250 Stanly County celebration, marking our nation’s milestone anniversary through the lens of local history.
The afternoon will be packed with engaging activities that bring the 18th and 19th centuries to life. Visitors can witness the thunder and precision of musket drills performed by dedicated Revolutionary and Civil War reenactors, or find a slower pace at our yarn spinning demonstrations. Families are encouraged to get hands-on with history through traditional toy making and a variety of historic games that entertained generations of North Carolinians long before the digital age.
For those with a sweet tooth or a competitive spirit, the event will also feature the Great Retro Bake-Off. This competition showcases local youth bakers as they recreate vintage recipes, celebrating the culinary traditions that have graced Stanly County tables for decades. Whether you are a history buff, a fan of classic crafts, or just looking for a unique family outing, come explore these landmark homes and celebrate our shared heritage in the sunshine.
#America250NC
#America250Stanlycounty

Stanly County Chorale presents "America: 250 Years in Song"
2026-04-18 19:00 - 20:30 | Pfeiffer University – Henry Pfeiffer Chapel, Misenheimer, NC, 28109
The Chorale will present a musical retrospective of America’s 250 years.

The Uwharrie Players presents Now and Then
2026-04-18 19:30 - 21:30 | Albemarle Neighborhood Theatre, 219 E. North Street, Albemarle, NC, 28001
Sometimes what happens after last call just might change your life. One night in 1981, just as Jamie is closing the bar where he works, a desperate last-minute customer offers him and his girlfriend Abby two thousand dollars to sit and have a drink with him. Who wouldn’t take it? As the trio swaps stories and Jamie considers the decisions he faces about his musical career and his future with his girlfriend Abby, the young couple begins to realize that this older man is unusually invested in their choices… and the reason he gives them is completely unbelievable. But when a very displeased second stranger arrives, the unbelievable begins to look like it just might be true. Now and Then is a heartfelt romantic comedy about the costs of the choices we make, and the people who make them with us.
Saturday, April 18 – Buy One Get One Night!
Offer available at the door and online using discount code TRUTHORDARE at checkout.
​The free ticket will be the one of equal or lesser value among the tickets purchased together.
This offer cannot be used in conjunction with a Season Membership pass.

Stanly County Chorale presents "America: 250 Years in Song'
2026-04-19 15:00 - 16:30 | First Baptist Church, Albemarle, 202 N. Second St, Albemarle, 28001

Stanly Arts Guild presents High School Art Shows
2026-04-21 - 2026-06-07 | Stanly Arts Guild & Gallery, 152 West Main St., Albemarle, NC, 28001
Each year, the Stanly Arts Guild works with the local high school art teachers in Stanly County to host shows for the many talented students enrolled in their classes. This includes private, as well as public, high schools. The teachers and students get involved in setting up the shows that showcase and encourage the emerging talent we have in Stanly county. The shows are typically 1-2 weeks in length for each school, with a reception for the students & their families at the end of the show. There are no prizes awarded but there may be a graduating senior whose work is showcased for some schools. In these shows every entry is a winner, but the big winners are those of us viewing the show, as the talent and imagination of these young artists are truly amazing.
If you are a high school art teacher and would like to arrange dates to showcase the talent of your students, please contact our Art Show Coordinator at The Stanly Arts Guild:
Attn: SAG Art Show Coordinator
stanlyartsguild19@gmail.com

Stanly Arts Guild presents Spring Garden & Craft Show
2026-04-28 - 2026-06-06 | Stanly Arts Guild & Gallery, 152 West Main St., Albemarle, NC, 28001
After those cold winter days, we are just jumping at the chance to beautify our yards and enjoy being outside. Our customers love being able to shop for unique art for their patios, decks and yards.
Vendors are invited to sell their beautiful yard art creations so everyone can add what they like best to their yard, garden, porch, deck, camper, wherever they want to decorate nature! Come by The Stanly Arts Guild store to see what you might find.
If you would like to be a vendor for this show, you may find an application to download on our Annual Shows page, or you may stop by the Stanly Arts Guild to pick up a printed copy.

The Stanly County Concert Band presents "Our American Journey in Music"
2026-04-30 19:00 - 20:30 | Stanly County Agri-Civic Center, 26032 Newt Rd # B, Albemarle, NC
Our American Journey in Music is the spring concert of the Stanly County Concert Band. It will feature music that represents our diverse musical heritage. The band , with the Stanly County Chorale, will premier “An American Tapestry”, which was the commissioned by the band and the chorale in honor of the 250th birthday of the United States. North Carolina Composer Bruce Tippette will be guest conductor. This was supported by the America 250 NC Stanly County committee.

This project was supported through a grant from America 250 NC, a program of the NC Department of Natural and Cultural Resources

Stanly Arts Guild hosts Art For Mom! Workshop
2026-05-02 10:30 - 15:00 | Stanly Arts Guild & Gallery, 152 West Main St., Albemarle, NC, 28001
Bring in your children (ages 5-12) to make Art For Mom! Paint a flower pot, plant a flower, and make a card to Celebrate Mom! FREE (but space is limited: you can call to reserve your child’s pot to paint).
Partner Hint: bring the children to make a gift for Mom, and she not only gets a heartfelt gift from them, but she also gets a little “me time” while you whisk them away to make it! (bonus gift for mom – she’s usually putting herself aside)

May the 4th Open Sew!
2026-05-04 10:30 - 19:00 | Sew On and Sew Fourth Sewciety, 28488 NC Hwy73, Albemarle, NC, 28001, United States
Come to the Dark Side (we have cookies)!
Join Sew On & Sew Fourth Sewciety (Jessica, Heather, Sue…) on this very special day for “nerds who sew”!
May 4th is known as Star Wars Day! and quilters strive for that perfect fourth (1/4 inch)…
Come sew with us on one of our favorite days! Remember to Press To The Dark Side!
Open Sew for those who want to work on some themed blocks.
Not sure about foundation paper piecing? We can help you with that.
Costumes are welcomed. Take a selfie with Vader!

The Stanly County Concert Band presents "Our American Journey in Music"
2026-05-07 19:30 - 21:00 | Albemarle Train Station
This is an encore performance of some of the music of the Stanly County Concert Band’s spring concert that reflects our diverse musical heritage.
