All Ears in Edenton
Located on the Albemarle Sound, Edenton is the county seat of Chowan County. Serving as North Carolina’s second official capital from 1722 and 1743, this beautiful Inner Banks town is not only significant in North Carolina’s history, but United States history as well. (For a deep dive into North Carolina’s second oldest town, be sure to visit the Historic Edenton State Historic Site!)
While history buffs might know Edenton for being the site of the 1774 Edenton Tea Party (one of the first instances of political activism by women in the Thirteen Colonies), this waterfront community also houses a lively and robust arts and music scene. From “vinyl nights” to concerts in a barn, there’s a ton of fun and unique ways to enjoy music in Edenton!
Sample Music-Themed Day Trip Itinerary*
Morning
A great way to start a music and arts filled day in Edenton is by swinging by the Chowan Arts Council space. A member supported nonprofit organization; the Chowan Arts Council is an art gallery which also features music programming. With artwork changing almost weekly, there’s sure to be something new and unique to catch your eyes (and ears!).
- Chowan Arts Council, 112 W Water St, Edenton, NC 27932
Midday
When planning your day trip, be sure to set aside some time to peruse and support Edenton’s local businesses. Even in these seemingly unrelated shops, restaurants, and cafés, you’re likely to find some hidden musical gems. For example, one local shop, the Edenton Bay Trading Company hosts weekly “vinyl nights”. These vinyl nights feature live DJs and allow folks to dig through hundreds of records- all while supporting a fixture of the local community.
- Edenton Bay Trading Company, 407 S Broad St, Edenton, NC 27932
Afternoon
Presented by Main Street Edenton and Visit Edenton, the Sounds of Summer Concert Series is a great family-friendly way to enjoy some live music as the nights heat up! The Sounds of Summer Concert series features diverse artists from various genres and consists of four evenings of great live performances. The event is also free and open to the public.
- Visit Edenton, 510 S. Broad St. Edenton, NC 27932
Evening
David’s Red Barn is another Edenton live music gem. David’s Red barn is both a “non-smoking” and “no alcohol” space, making it a great choice for folks looking for a family friendly spot to enjoy some live music and dancing!
- David's Red Barn, 1008 David's Red Barn Lane, Edenton, NC 27932