CURRENTS

This past weekend proved just how vibrant a small town can be.

For a community of fewer than 5,000 residents, Edenton delivered an impressive lineup of events that brought together locals and visitors alike for a full weekend of art, music, and celebration.

The weekend began Friday with Easels in the Gardens, drawing hundreds of guests to town for the biennial event. IN the picture above, Arlington, Va. artist Thomas Macia captures the historic courthouse on canvasOver two days, 47 artists from across the region set up in the gardens of historic homes and properties, capturing the essence of Edenton through plein air painting. Guests strolled through the gardens, chatting with artists as they worked, watching scenes of florals, landscapes, and historic homes come to life on canvas.

The Cupola House Association once again delivered a seamless and welcoming experience, blending professionalism with the relaxed charm that defines Edenton.

By late Friday afternoon, the energy shifted downtown. Volunteers from local businesses and Main Street Edenton worked together to transform Broad Street, setting the stage for one of the town’s favorite traditions—Boogie on Broad. By 5 p.m., the street was filled with neighbors, families, and visitors ready to enjoy a warm spring evening together.

Chairs lined the street as people settled in to listen, dance, and reconnect after the winter months. Food trucks and vendors added to the festive atmosphere, while children were entertained by magician Scott Wagoner. As the evening progressed, The Tams kept the crowd on its feet, filling the night with classic beach music and R&B.

Meanwhile, the Chowan Arts Council hosted a private cocktail viewing featuring its “Art and Floral” exhibit. Local floral designers interpreted selected works of art, creating arrangements that mirrored the colors, textures, and spirit of each piece—an elegant blend of creativity and nature. (SEE PHOTOS IN EASEL WEEKEND, CURRENTS)

Saturday brought a continuation of Easels .....CONTINUED in the Gardens, with artists returning to their canvases and the public invited to explore both the outdoor settings and the Arts Council’s exhibit.

The weekend culminated Saturday evening with a gallery cocktail party and art sale held in the fully blooming Cupola House gardens. Guests had the opportunity to purchase works created during the event while enjoying music by Paul Kothe and learning more about the artists behind the paintings.

For many, the celebration didn’t end there. Guests later boarded the Albemarle Queen for a two-hour dinner cruise, with a meal prepared by The Table at the Inner Banks Inn—an experience that added yet another layer to an already memorable weekend.

Adding to the evening’s excitement, John A. Holmes High School held its prom at Edenton United Methodist Church. Students arrived dressed to impress, transforming the space into an elegant setting for a night of dancing and celebration.

By Sunday, the pace had slowed. A dedicated group of Cupola volunteers quietly dismantled tables and chairs, returning the gardens—and the town—to their usual calm.

But the impact of the weekend lingered.

Events like Easels in the Gardens and Boogie on Broad don’t happen without a strong network of volunteers working behind the scenes. In Edenton, that spirit of service is part of the town’s identity.

For those who enjoyed the weekend, organizers offered a simple reminder: consider getting involved. Whether through the arts, community groups, or local events, volunteering not only supports the town—it strengthens the connections that make Edenton such a special place to live.

And as this past weekend proved, it’s also a lot of fun.