Spring has officially taken over Hickory, and trust us—you don’t want to miss it. Longer days, fresh air, and excitement are everywhere—from downtown streets to neighborhood parks and ballfields. It’s the perfect season for exploring, tasting, and cheering. Here are 10 events you’ll want to add to your calendar.
29th Annual Catawba Valley Pottery & Antiques Festival: Hickory Metro Convention Center, March 27–28
Wander the 29th Annual Catawba Valley Pottery & Antiques Festival at the Hickory Metro Convention Center and discover pottery, antiques, and rare collectibles waiting to be found. More than 90 potters and dealers bring their work to life with live demonstrations that reveal how each piece is made. Friday’s Premiere Party offers early access to mingle with artists and shop first, while Saturday welcomes the public from 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or simply love one-of-a-kind finds, this festival is a springtime favorite.
24th Annual Hickory Train Show: Hickory Metro Convention Center, March 27–28
Photo Credit: Southeastern Narrow Gauge & Shortline Museum via Facebook.
All aboard for the 24th Annual Hickory Train Show, where model trains, memorabilia, and hands-on fun fill the Hickory Metro Convention Center. Explore layouts in every scale, browse finds from knowledgeable vendors, and test out equipment on the tracks—Friday from 12–7 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m.–3 p.m. Every turn of the track brings a new surprise to discover.
Hickory Crawdads Baseball Home Games: L.P. Frans Stadium, Starting April 2
Baseball is back at L.P. Frans Stadium as the Hickory Crawdads take the field for another exciting season. As the High-A affiliate of the Texas Rangers, the team delivers themed nights, crowd favorites, and plenty of reasons to cheer all spring and summer long. Opening Day is April 2, and no visit is complete without a photo with Conrad the Crawdad. Click here to explore this season’s schedule and grab your tickets.
Hopping Into Spring: Downtown Hickory, April 4
Photo Credit: Downtown Hickory via Facebook.
Kick off the season at Hopping Into Spring, a cheerful celebration in Downtown Hickory. Snap a photo with the Easter Bunny and enjoy a fun, free outing for families from 10–11 a.m. on Union Square. It’s the perfect excuse to wander downtown and pop into a few shops while you’re there.
Hickory Hops Craft Beer & Music Festival: Downtown Hickory, April 11
Sip your way through Hickory Hops, an annual craft beer and music festival that takes over Downtown Hickory each spring. With over 50 breweries and more than 200 beers to sample, there’s always something new to try while live music keeps things going from 1–6 p.m. The event takes place in the parking lot of Lowes Foods City Park, with early check-in available at Olde Hickory Brewery for quick entry.
Spring Park Stewardship Days: Mountain Creek Park on April 18 & St. Stephens Park on May 16
Spend a spring morning giving back at Spring Park Stewardship Days. Join Visit Hickory, Outdoor NC, Catawba County Parks, and other local partners on April 18 at Mountain Creek Park and May 16 at St. Stephens Park from 9–11:30 a.m. to help care for some of our favorite outdoor spaces. Click here to learn more about the Mountain Creek event, and stay tuned for details on the St. Stephens Park day.
Spring Heritage Festival: Hart Square Village, May 2
Step into spring at the Spring Heritage Festival at Hart Square Village, where the nation’s largest log cabin collection comes to life in a whole new way. On May 2 from 12–4 p.m., watch skilled craftspeople demonstrate time-honored traditions while old-time music drifts through the grounds. Join in with flower crown making or Maypole dancing for a day that feels both historic and full of seasonal charm.
Foothills Folk Art Festival: Downtown Newton, May 9
Downtown Newton fills with color and creativity on May 9 from 10 a.m.–4 p.m. during the Foothills Folk Art Festival. Stroll the streets, meet artists, watch live demonstrations, and shop for handmade pieces you won’t find anywhere else. With hands-on art activities, live music, local food, and a beer garden, it’s an easy way to spend a spring day surrounded by creativity.
Hickory FC Home Games: Moretz Stadium, Starting May 23
There’s nothing like a night under the lights at a Hickory FC match. The reigning 2025 NPSL National Champions kick off their home season on May 23 at 7 p.m., bringing fast-paced action to Moretz Stadium. It’s an easy go-to for a spring evening with friends, family, and fellow fans. Check out this season’s schedule and snag your tickets here.
Fresh Picks & Local Finds: Farmers Markets in Hickory, Conover, & Newton
Fresh finds are always in season at local farmers markets, and there are plenty to explore across the area. The Downtown Hickory Farmers Market is open year-round every Wednesday and Saturday under the sails, while the Conover Farmers Market returns on Saturdays starting April 18. New this year, Downtown Newton adds a Thursday evening market, perfect for an easy after-work stop.
Spring is in full swing, so don’t let these seasonal events slip away. Get out, explore, and check out our event calendar for even more ways to enjoy the season.
