Cheerwine festival

Salisbury throws open its streets for the South’s sweetest block party. Born in 2017 to mark Cheerwine’s 100th birthday, the festival has grown into a one-day celebration of everything that makes the Carolinas worth bragging about — the food, the music, the makers, and of course the burgundy-red soda that started it all.

Spin Doctors headline the main stage, closing out a full day of regional and local acts. Between sets, wander Food Lion’s “Carolina Brand Originals” sampling area, hunt down Cheerwine-inspired creations from food trucks and stalls, and shop handmade goods from local artisans — wood and metal sculpture, honey, soap, and official Cheerwine merchandise.

Two beer gardens (one on Main Street, one beside Bell Tower Green) pour classic, local, and Cheerwine-spiked pours for the 21+ crowd. Families have the run of a free Fun Zone with rock climbing, games, and activities, plus stilt walkers, jugglers, and free history tours roaming the festival grounds.

Free shuttle parking is available. Text CWFEST to 888777 for live updates.