82nd Airborne Division Band & Chorus present "This We'll Defend: The All American Story"
2026-03-22 15:00 - 17:00 (America/New_York) | 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.

Scholarship Application Deadline: High School Senior/College Freshman
2026-05-09 10:00 - 14:00 | Stanly Arts Guild & Gallery, 152 West Main St., Albemarle, NC, 28001
Stanly Arts Guild Scholarship
The Stanly Arts Guild has established an art scholarship to be awarded annually to a high school senior planning to enroll, or college freshman enrolled, in a visual arts or arts education program. The applicant must be a resident of Stanly County or an adjoining county (Anson, Cabarrus, Montgomery, Rowan or Union Counties). A total of $1000 will be awarded in June, and a check will be paid directly to the college in attendance of the scholarship winner. Application requirements must be completed and returned by 2:00 pm on Saturday, May 9, 2026 to be considered for this award.
The 2026 scholarship submission deadline is May 9th, 2026.
Applications for this scholarship are available at the Guild store during regular business hours or through the link on our website:
Scholarships

City Youth Ballet presents "Peter and the Wolf"
2026-05-09 12:00 - 14:00, 2026-05-09 16:00 - 17:00 | Hall House & Gardens, 343 N. Second Street, Albemarle, 28001
Join us in the garden for a beautiful outdoor performance of Peter and the Wolf, where guests are invited to relax and enjoy the experience picnic-style.
Ticket Options:
General Admission: $15
Picnic Package: $25 (includes admission, an individual charcuterie box, and bottled water) – Deadline to purchase is May 5.
Bring a blanket or chair and settle in for a charming afternoon of dance in a unique garden setting.
Please Note:
In the event of inclement weather, all tickets will be honored for May 10 at the same performance times.
All sales are final.
Tickets are required for all attendees, regardless of age.
Tickets are limited and must be purchased in advance.

Swinging in the Street with the Salisbury Swing Band
2026-05-09 19:00 - 21:00 | Historic 1852 Isaiah Snuggs House, 112 N. Third Street, Albemarle, NC, 28001, United States
The Stanly County Historical Society invites the community to step back in time for an evening dedicated to the sweeping brass and infectious rhythms of the 1940s. During an era defined by the challenges of World War II, big band swing served as much more than entertainment; it was the heartbeat of American resilience and a primary source of national pride. This music provided a sense of unity and hope that sustained the “Greatest Generation” both at home and abroad, becoming a symbol of the very freedom they sought to protect. By hosting the Salisbury Swing Band on the lawn of the Historic 1852 Isaiah Snuggs House, we honor this vital chapter of our cultural heritage and the enduring spirit of that transformative decade.
The performance begins at 7:00 PM, and we encourage guests to bring lawn chairs to set up in the street or within the parking lot located between the Stanly County Public Library and Uwharrie Brewing. As this event takes place within the Downtown Social District, those enjoying local refreshments are reminded to request their beverages in an official Social District Cup. This concert is free to the public, offering a unique opportunity to gather as a community and celebrate the timeless music that once rallied a nation.

Swing Band 1 (8.5 x 11 in) – 1

The Stanly County Chorale presents "America: 250 Years in Song"
2026-05-14 19:30 - 20:30 | Market Station, 501 W. Main St, Albemarle, N, 28001, United States
The Chorale will present a repeat performance of their musical retrospective of America’s 250 years as part of the Thursdays at the Station Concert Series.

Stanly Arts Guild hosts Excess Art Supply Sale
2026-06-09 - 2026-07-03 | Stanly Arts Guild & Gallery, 152 West Main St., Albemarle, NC, 28001
Do you have gently used arts and/or craft supplies that you won’t be using?
Do you want to try something new?
Come see what artists are giving up (or maybe trying without the big expense of new).
This is our annual “yard sale” of creativity.
OR, Do you have Excess Art Supplies that you would wish to sell and pass along for someone else to try?

Stanly Arts Guild presents Art Show for Senior Living Residents
2026-06-09 - 2026-07-03 | Stanly Arts Guild & Gallery, 152 West Main St., Albemarle, NC, 28001
In 2019 we hosted our first local senior art show with Trinity Place, a local Home for Senior Living. Some of the artwork was created by residents in their 90’s! Studies show that seniors who participate in art programs have improved health, well-being, and independence. We enjoy showcasing these artists in Senior Care Facilities.

Low Country Voices
2026-06-20 15:00 - 17:00 | First Baptist Church, Albemarle, 202 N. Second St, Albemarle, 28001
Stanly County Senior Services is celebrating their 40th Anniversary with a concert featuring Low Country Voices.

Make Music Day Stanly County
2026-06-21 13:00 - 21:00 | Market Station, 501 W. Main St, Albemarle, N, 28001, United States
A worldwide celebration of music! Make Music Day is a one-day event where free, live musical performances, opportunities to make music and other musical events take place around the world on the longest day of the year! And in 2026…. it will happen in Stanly County.
Come celebrate DADs and America’s 250 all in the same space!
Events happening in Albemarle, Locust, and Norwood. See website for all the details…https://www.makemusicday.org/stanlycounty
Here’s a quick synopsis:

Downtown Albemarle
At Market Station:
@ the Information Table – make your dad a free guitar pick
Free Workshops @ the Depot at Market Station:

Ongoing – Kazoo/ egg shaker making
1:00 pm – Bucket Drumming
1:00 pm – Rhythm JOY with Boomwhackers, Handbells, & Shakers
1:30 pm Ukulele – bring your own or borrow from us
2:00 pm – Bucket Drumming (Outside)
2:00 pm – Cooking Up Some Rhythm (w/ Rhythm Sticks)
2:30 pm – Harmonica 101 – free harmonicas for the first 10 participants
4:00 pm – Ukulele – bring your own or borrow from us
4:30 pm – Harmonica 101 – free harmonicas for the first 10 participants
5:00 pm- ** For aspiring musicians: Music 101: Understanding the Music Industry with Dr. AP Duffield from Clefnotes Music Group

Celebrate America’s 250 .…
3:00 pm – Patriotic Sing-a-long with the Stanly County Chorale and Stanly County Band
3:30 pm – Sousapalooza – bring your instrument and play along other musicians the famous marches by John Philip Sousa. Bring a stand if you have one. If you’d like the music ahead of time, email request to stanlycounty@makemusicday.org
FREE PERFORMANCES in Albemarle

Market Station
Courthouse Plaza
Courthouse Square Park
@ 1 pm – Organ Concert with Michael Rowland at First Presbyterian Church
@ 4 pm – Singing American’s perform at Grace Baptist Church “Celebrate 250!”

IN LOCUST
FREE WORKSHOPS @ Locust City Hall Backyard Stage & Covered Walkway between stage and library:

1:00 pm – 5:00 pm – Ongoing Instrument Petting Zoo
1:00 pm- 5:00 pm – Kazoo and Shaker making
1:00 pm – 4:00 pm – Piano Mat fun
2:00 pm – Bucket Drumming

FREE Performances in Locust @ City Hall Backyard Stage

IN NORWOOD
FREE Performances
1:00 pm – Organ Concert with Dr. Beth Harrison @ First Presbyterian Church
4:00 pm – Concert with Late Night Special @ Juneberry Ridge Farm
For more details regarding the workshops and the free performances throughout the county, or to register to be a musician or a venue, check out the website for all the specifics.
Click here to go directly to makemusicday.org/stanlycounty/ website!!

Sponsored by: Stanly County Arts Council, Albemarle Downtown Development Corporation, Albemarle Parks & Rec, Locust Parks & Rec., Uwharrie Bank, Music on Main, TR Lawing Realty, Clefnotes Music Group, Albemarle Music Store
Instrument donations by Vic Firth, RBI Instruments, and Easttop Harmonicas

Stanly Arts Guild presents Summer Art Explosion
2026-07-14 - 2026-08-08 | Stanly Arts Guild & Gallery, 152 West Main St., Albemarle, NC, 28001
This is an “anything goes” type of show. There is no official theme. This show occurs during the long mid-summer days, and it’s just time for FUN art. We usually have a wonderful variety of art on display during this competition/show. Awarded prizes are 1st, 2nd & 3rd place for 2 categories – 2-D art, and 3-D art. This show is a wonderful opportunity for artists of all types to enter their work and perhaps walk away with a ribbon and cash prize for their creativity. All entries must not have previously won a ribbon in a Stanly Arts Guild show.

The Uwharrie Players presents Footloose the Musical
2026-07-24 19:30 - 21:30, 2026-07-25 19:30 - 21:30 | Stanly County Agri-Civic Center, 26032 Newt Rd # B, Albemarle, NC
The Uwharrie Players present Footloose the Musical!
When Ren and his mother move from Chicago to a small farming town, he is prepared for the inevitable adjustment period at his new high school. But he’s not prepared for the rigorous local edicts, including a ban on dancing instituted by the local preacher, who is determined to exercise control over the town’s youth. When the reverend’s rebellious daughter sets her sights on Ren, her roughneck boyfriend tries to sabotage Ren’s reputation, with many of the locals eager to believe the worst about the new kid. The heartfelt story that emerges pins a father longing for the son he lost against a young man aching for the father who walked out on him.
