Calling All Artists
The Pender Arts Council is excited to announce the opportunity for artists to participate in the 2025-2026 NC First in Freedom Festival Regional Art Contest, an event celebrating America’s 250th Anniversary.
 

On Saturday, February 22, and Sunday, February 23, Moores Creek National Battlefield will be commemorating the 249th Anniversary of the Battle of Moores Creek Bridge. Park staff, park partners, volunteers, and other living historians will be offering a variety of programs and demonstrations throughout the weekend.

Our Nation’s story and culture viewed through the lens of historical North Carolina events and the arts within the eight counties of Southeastern North Carolina that include Bladen, Brunswick, Columbus, Duplin, New Hanover, Onslow, Pender, and Sampson.

The inaugural North Carolina First in Freedom Festival, taking place throughout Southeastern NC during the week of February 21-28, 2026, will celebrate 250+ years of our Nation’s story and culture viewed through the lens of historical North Carolina events and the arts

Moores Creek Battleground Association has received a grant from the North Carolina’s America 250 NC initiative for a project to commemorate the nation’s 250th anniversary in 2026, the NC First In Freedom Festival.

Looking to volunteer?

In 2026, America will commemorate 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence.