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A Staff Report

The Elizabethtown – White Lake Area Chamber of Commerce is buzzing with anticipation as they unveil a series of exciting events set to take place in the heart of Bladen County. With a range of activities and festivities that promise fun, community engagement, and historical exploration, the Chamber of Commerce has something for everyone.

250th Anniversary Homecoming: November 11, 2023

Mark your calendars for an event that celebrates the rich history of Elizabethtown. The 250th Anniversary Homecoming, originally scheduled for a different date, now promises to captivate on November 11, 2023.

Cape Fear Farmers Market: Schedule of Events for the Town of Elizabethtown Homecoming on November 11, 2023

On this special day, the Cape Fear Farmers Market will be abuzz with activity:

9 AM – Vendors and Exhibits Open: The market will come alive with local vendors and captivating exhibits.
10 AM – Opening Ceremony: The day kicks off with a grand opening ceremony on the main stage.
10 AM – Walking Tour of Downtown Elizabethtown: For those looking to immerse themselves in the town’s history, guided walking tours will be available. Be sure to sign up at the designated booth.
10:15 AM – East Bladen Marching Band: Enjoy the lively tunes of the East Bladen Marching Band at the main stage.
10 AM – 2 PM – Tour of Churches: Delve into the historic charm of local churches with a guided tour. Pick up your tickets and maps at the Farmers Market.
11 AM-2 PM – Decatur Street Beat Band: Groove to the rhythms of the Decatur Street Beat Band.
12 PM – Corn Shucking Contest: Witness the skill of contestants in the Corn Shucking Contest.
1 PM – Whistling Contest: An entertaining whistling contest will take place at the front of the stage.
2 PM – Boiled Peanut Eating Contest: Sponsored by Peanut Patch and the Elizabethtown Rotary Club, this contest is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
2:30 PM – Hamburger Eating Contest: Sponsored by Melvins’, the Hamburger Eating Contest is bound to be a delicious showdown.
3:00 PM – Hollering Contest: Both kids and adults will have the chance to showcase their hollering skills in this unique contest.
3:30 PM – Brent Underwood Band: The Brent Underwood Band will take the stage, offering live musical entertainment.
5 PM – 8 PM – Rivermist: The festivities continue with the sounds of Rivermist.

In addition to the scheduled events, there will be all-day attractions from 9 AM to 3 PM:

Farming Life: Sponsored by NC Cooperative Extension – Bladen County, this exhibit highlights the agricultural heritage of Bladen County, providing insights into its importance to Elizabethtown. Enjoy storytelling sessions and equipment displays.
Major Industries Exhibit: Get to know the major industries and businesses that proudly call Elizabethtown home. You can also participate in various contests, from corn shucking to hollering and more.
Dress in Period Costume: Attendees are encouraged to don period costumes from any era, adding a touch of historical flair to the event.
Guided Tours: Explore downtown with a guided historical tour or take a ticket for the Tour of Churches.
Live Music: Enjoy the melodious Dixieland tunes of Decatur Street Beat, followed by the beach and classic rock sounds of Rivermist.
Historical Insights: Delve into old farmer tales and see antique farm equipment on display.

The Chamber of Commerce is open to ideas and welcomes volunteers. If you want to be part of this historic celebration, please contact Terri Dennison with the Town of Elizabethtown at 910-862-4368 to get involved.

2023 Christmas Parade & Tree Lighting Ceremony: November 26, 2023

As the year comes to a close, the Elizabethtown – White Lake Area Chamber of Commerce has even more in store. Brought to you by Star Communications, the 2023 Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting Ceremony will take place on Sunday, November 26, 2023. The parade, set to begin at 4 PM, will be followed by the enchanting Tree Lighting Ceremony at the Courthouse. Join the parade by filling out a parade entry form on the Chamber’s website.

This year’s theme is “Hometown Holidays,” promising to fill the streets with festive spirit and community joy.

The Elizabethtown – White Lake Area Chamber of Commerce invites everyone to join in on these exciting events, fostering a strong sense of community and celebrating the history and traditions that make this area so special. Take advantage of these upcoming opportunities for fun, learning, and celebration.