Count how many buildings you can identify in this photo. | Photo by WStoday
Whether you’re a Winston-Salem native or a relative newcomer, there are just some things every Winstonian understands to be true.
We asked our readers to share Winston-Salem’s unwritten rules, from common city knowledge to relatable trends and local lingo. You won’t find these rules in a handbook, but they are undoubtedly absorbed by the community — and if you’re not from the Twin City, these might be a little difficult to explain. Here’s what our WStoday readers and Instagram followers shared.
We’ve learned a thing or two from commuting
“When approaching the intersection of Salem Pkwy. East and Hwy 52, always remain in the left lane because of congestion.” — Jeff N.
“We know doughnuts are the best ‘Hot and Now,’ we know all the cut-through roads to get from Stratford to Country Club or Robinhood to Reynolda when the traffic is bad. We know it’s pronounced B-you-na Vista!” — @marissacostumediva1
The unspoken rule everyone knows
“I would say 40 years ago, everyone had someone, if not in their immediate family in their extended family, that work at RJR Tobacco Company.” — @antbfletch
“Proper pronouncement of Buena Vista and Ebert Rd.” — Selene T.
“Hanes Mall: referring to the old mall and new mall!” — @f45_training_winstonsalem
“You can tell how long someone has lived here based on what they call the highway through downtown: Old 40, Business 40, or Salem Pkwy.” — Lydia I.
We remember when…
“Phuzzfest and playing at Krankies when it was a music venue.” — @z__kk____z
WStoday’s pro tips
“Always buy local brands. We have some of the best branded products on the planet, especially Winston-Salem.” — Billy C.
“Subscribing to WStoday so you don’t miss out on the best local news.” — WStoday editors Cambridge + Kellina
What did we miss? If you know an unofficial rule that’s not on the list, let us know.
Events
Thursday, Sept. 26
Secure Your Future Summit | Thursday, Sept. 26 | 6:30-8 p.m. | Mary Alice Warren Community Center, Lewisville | Free, RSVP | Gain practical knowledge on how to avoid AI scams + online fraud, plus hear lawyers share best practices about estate planning.
Hook and Hang Crochet/Knit Club | Thursday, Sept. 26 | 6-9 p.m. | D.O.S.E Artist Collective | Free | Get cozy and crafty with other crochet enthusiasts whether you are a seasoned pro or just picking up the hobby for the first time.
Friday, Sept. 27
House Hangs | Friday, Sept. 27 | 5 p.m. | NC Museum of Art, Winston-Salem | Donations accepted | Join the series of social gatherings featuring local chefs’ cuisine, music by the area’s finest DJs, and seasonal drinks.
Dutch Light Bar Grand Opening | Friday, Sept. 27 | 3 p.m.-12 a.m. | Dutch Light Bar | Free | Celebrate the newest cocktail bar downtown and sip on classic fall cocktails while overlooking Bailey Park.
Saturday, Sept. 28
Closing Celebration: Brazilian Festa | Saturday, Sept. 28 | 4-6 p.m. | Hispanic League | Free | It’s your last chance to take a Samba dance class or hear the samba band live — face painting + Brazilian food and drinks will also be available.
Sunday, Sept. 29
Bingham Arts Series: Concert on the Dock | Sunday, Sept. 29 | 3-4:30 p.m. | Historic Broyhill, Clemmons | Free | Listen to the Fabulous Flashbacks perform some of your favorite classic hits from the 60s, 70s, and 80s, plus grab frozen custard for sale.
“Little Shop of Horrors” | Sunday, Sept. 29 | 4 p.m. | Hanesbrands Theatre | Free | Based on the popular off-Broadway musical, watch how a flower shop assistant discovers an unusual plant which feeds only on human flesh and blood.
Watch out for Hurricane Helene, which is moving through central NC. Expect heavy rain and strong storms later tonight through Friday with possible power outages — stay alert with these safety tips.
Regional
Duke Energy is working on strengthening its power grid to restore customers’ power quicker during severe power outages. Crews will work on upgrading poles and wires + installing smart, self-healing technology that can quickly detect power outages.
Transit
You may want to pump the brakes if you’re heading to one part of Salem Creek Greenway. The road between Vargrave Street and Research Parkway is closed after a sinkhole formed beneath it. We’ll keep you updated when it reopens. (WFDD)
Opening
Downtown Winston-Salem’s bar scene is raising the bar one drink at a time. Trolley Pub will celebrate its comeback on Saturday, Oct. 14 from 12 to 2 p.m. at 1355 N. Martin Luther King Jr. Dr. The 14-people trolley will makes pit stops along 4th and Trade Streets. (Yes Weekly)
Edu
Forsyth Tech is seeing record enrollment this fall. The community college has an enrollment increase of ~6% compared to fall 2023. School leaders say this is thanks to program offerings and strong partnership with local industries.
Environment
The City of Winston-Salem no longer accepts shredded paper for recycling. Piedmont Environmental Alliance recommends composting it instead or using a large point Sharpie to mark out sensitive information before disposing it in your bin.
Wellness
Join the 23rd Annual Pink Ribbon Talks Breast Cancer Conference on Saturday, Oct. 5 at the Generations Center. Register by Monday, Sept. 30 to reserve your spot — tickets cost $15. The event runs from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Finance
Experts say thousands of folks with credit card debt are flocking to this leading card, which now offers 0% interest on balance transfers and purchases until nearly 2026. Pay down debts + avoid fees? Sounds like a fall must-do.*
You don’t have to break the bank to attain strong, silky-soft hair. Pantene’s Keratin Leave-In Conditioner can repair split ends + protect against future damage for less than $20.*
Seasonal
🎃 Keep calm and carve on
Take a terrifying tour in Old Salem
Locals know Old Salem is not to be confused with the city of Salem on the coast of Massachusetts. | Photo by WStoday
Halloween is just around the corner. Fasten your sheet-belt for Old Salem’s most famous ghost tour. Learn about the untold stories, mysteries, and tragedies that took place in the historic town.
A tour guide will take you through the suspense and horrors of Salem’s history through the lens of the night watchman. You’ll uncover how early settlers of Salem dealt with dark dangers and supernatural phenomena that haunted their nights during their time.
Will you catch a vibe? It’s up to you to find out during this outdoor walking tour. Book a date and time slot online between Friday, Oct. 18 and Thursday, Oct. 31. But first, here’s what you need to know for a gourd time.
Group size: 12 people per tour (ages 10+)
Cost: $50 per person
Time frames: 6:30-7:45 p.m. (Tours typically run for 60 minutes depending on the group’s pace.)
The Buy
The Buy 9.26.24 (Affiliate)
A set of glass cups with bamboo lids and straws. These fan-favorite drinking cups are great for ciders, mocktails, and cocktails, plus they’re perfect for year-round iced coffee fans (we know you’re out there).
If you’re looking for an activity to do on this rainy day, I recommend curling up with a good book at Bookmarks and trying out the fall coffee flights from Footnote Coffee and Cocktails.
Content marked with an * is paid advertising. Content marked with an ^ is created by our content studio. The company may also generate commission from affiliate links in the newsletter.