• Welcome To The Hickory Nut Gorge!

     

     

  • The Hickory Nut Gorge Chamber of Commerce is thrilled to announce the upcoming Nostalgia Days event, taking place during the weekend of September 6th to 8th, 2024. This exciting weekend will take the place of the annual dance festival in order to showcase the rich history of the Hickory Nut Gorge region, with local businesses in Lake Lure, Chimney Rock, and surrounding areas participating in special themed activities and celebrations.


    Each participating business will embrace a unique nostalgic theme, paying homage to the vibrant history of the Hickory Nut Gorge including tributes to iconic figures, celebration of movies filmed in the area, and recognition of the region's cultural heritage, there will be something for everyone to enjoy.


    A special highlight of the weekend will be a tribute to Patrick Swayze and his influence on the area, commemorating his time spent filming "Dirty Dancing" in Lake Lure. Additionally, visitors can look forward to a variety of themed events, including a movie screening and party in Lake Lure, live music, dancing, and engaging activities throughout the weekend.


    "We are excited to invite everyone to join us for Nostalgia Days and experience the rich history and vibrant spirit of the Hickory Nut Gorge," said Nick Sotille, Board Member at the Hickory Nut Gorge Chamber of Commerce. "This event is a wonderful opportunity for locals and visitors alike to come together, celebrate our heritage, and create lasting memories."


    All are welcome to attend Nostalgia Days and partake in the festivities. Stay tuned to the Hickory Nut Gorge Chamber of Commerce website and Facebook page for more information, including a detailed schedule of events and participating businesses.

  • Want To Participate?

     

    Local businesses throughout the Hickory Nut Gorge are encouraged to participate in the Vintage Vibes Weekend to help make it a great weekend for cour community and visitors alike.

    How to join us:

    • Select a vintage theme for the weekend. See the list of ideas to help get you started, and then select something that vibes with your business.
       
    • Let the Chamber know your theme and any special activities, promotions, or other fun plans you have in store so we can help market YOU!
       
    • If you want to be part of the planning, you are welcome to join us at a Tourism Committee Meeting and help shape the plans for the weekend. The next meeting is May 8th at 2PM at the Chamber office. Please RSVP so we know how many to expect.

     

  • Info For Vendors

     

    At this time, the Tourism Committee has not finalized their plans for the weekend. Therefore, we do not yet know whether or not there will be a need for vendors of any kind.

    The Chamber of Hickory Nut Gorge gives Chamber members first consideration when selecting vendors for events, so consider joining the Chamber for $250/year to hear about all vendor opportunities before the general public. 

    Please complete the online application associated with this event or others you wish to participate in. 

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

  • THEME IDEAS FOR YOUR BUSINESS

     

     

    Movie-themed Cafe or Restaurant:
    Theme: Showcase movies that were filmed in the area or feature local landmarks. Examples include "Dirty Dancing" or "The Last of the Mohicans."
    Decor: Set up vintage movie posters, film reels, and themed decorations.
    Special Menu: Offer dishes or drinks inspired by the movies, such as "Johnny Castle Burger" or "Baby's Watermelon Cooler."
    Promotion: Discount for customers dressed in vintage attire or movie-themed costumes.

     

    Historical Walking Tours:
    Theme: Explore local history, landmarks, and folklore with guided tours.
    Decor: Provide vintage maps, photographs, and artifacts along the tour route.
    Special Offer: Discounted tour tickets for Vintage Vibe Weekend attendees.
    Promotion: Partner with local historians or storytellers for a more immersive experience.

     

    Celebrity-inspired Pop-up Shop:
    Theme: Highlight celebrities who have visited or lived in the area.
    Decor: Display memorabilia, autographs, and photographs of celebrities.
    Special Merchandise: Offer limited edition items or merchandise related to local celebrities.
    Promotion: Raffle or giveaway featuring celebrity-themed prizes.

     

    Folklore-themed Bar or Pub:
    Theme: Dive into local folklore, legends, and ghost stories.
    Decor: Create a mysterious atmosphere with dim lighting, candles, and spooky decorations.
    Special Drinks: Craft cocktails named after local legends or mythical creatures.
    Promotion: Host storytelling sessions or paranormal-themed events.

     

    Vintage Fashion Boutique:
    Theme: Celebrate retro fashion trends from different eras.
    Decor: Set up vintage clothing racks, mannequins, and nostalgic accessories.
    Special Offer: Discount on vintage clothing purchases during the event.
    Promotion: Fashion show featuring local models showcasing vintage attire.

     

    Art Gallery Exhibition:
    Theme: Showcase artworks inspired by local landscapes, culture, and history.
    Decor: Display vintage art pieces alongside contemporary interpretations.
    Special Event: Artist meet-and-greet or live painting demonstrations.
    Promotion: Limited edition prints or discounts on artwork purchases.

     

    Live Music Venue:
    Theme: Highlight local musicians and bands playing retro or nostalgic tunes.
    Decor: Set up a vintage stage with retro lighting and decor.
    Special Performance: Tribute bands or musicians covering songs from iconic eras.
    Promotion: Drink specials during live music performances.

     

    Outdoor Picnic & Film Screening:
    Theme: Host a vintage-style picnic with classic films under the stars.
    Decor: Set up picnic blankets, vintage lanterns, and outdoor screens.
    Special Menu: Offer picnic baskets with local delicacies and retro snacks.
    Promotion: Family-friendly activities like outdoor games or crafts.

     

    Cooking Class with Local Ingredients:
    Theme: Explore traditional recipes and local ingredients from the region.
    Decor: Set up a rustic kitchen atmosphere with vintage cookware and utensils.
    Special Menu: Cooking class featuring dishes inspired by local cuisine.
    Promotion: Discount on cooking class registration for Vintage Vibe Weekend participants.

     

    Vintage Car Or Motorcycle Show & Parade:
    Theme: Display classic cars and vehicles from different eras.
    Decor: Line the streets with vintage-inspired banners and flags.
    Special Event: Car parade featuring classic cars driving through the town.
    Promotion: Vote for the best vintage car with prizes for winners.

     

    Remember, the key to making your business inviting and engaging during Vintage Vibe Weekend is to immerse customers in the nostalgia and charm of the era while offering unique experiences and promotions that celebrate local culture and history.