First Gentleman Robert Eaves, in partnership with the Office of the Governor and the Department of Cultural Resources, launched an initiative - Celebrate North Carolina - to focus on the people, culture and rich resources of our state in October 2009. The program explores the many gifts our state has to offer.



The summer theme for Celebrate North Carolina features our State Parks. With mountain peaks, leafy forests and sandy beaches, more than 208,000 acres are preserved and protected for you. Come take a closer look on July 23-25 as Celebrate North Carolina invites you and your family to spend a weekend visiting, exploring and learning in one of our 39 beautiful, naturally wonderful state parks and state recreation areas. Raven Rock State Park will be offering the following free programs, which will start at the recently completed Raven Rock State Park Visitor Center.



Friday, July 23 8 p.m.: Raven Rock Nightlife Join a park ranger for a one-hour program to discover some of the secrets, sounds and myths of our local nightlife. Taxidermy mounts will be on display.

Saturday, July 24 9:30 a.m.: Hike to Raven Rock Join a park ranger on a two-hour, 2.2 mile hike to learn about some of the cultural and geologic history of Raven Rock. Sturdy closed-toe shoes for walking are recommended.

Sunday, July 25, 1 p.m.: Predator Safari Join a park ranger for a program and one mile hike to learn about our “predators in the park”. This program is intended for ages 6-11 (with an accompanying adult). Space is limited so pre-registration is required. To pre-register for the Predator Safari program, call 910-893-4888.