Winston-Salem sunsets are breathtaking. | Photo by @tim_hutch
Happy (almost) New Year, Winston-Salem. We’re so excited to kick off 2025 with you + for all of the possibilities the new year holds.
This year, a song by a local musician you’ve never heard before might become your new favorite, a really great restaurant might open right down the street from your place, and that new business you’ve been watching come together for months + months could finally open to the public.
As we prepare for a promising new year, we want to know what you want to read about each morning.
Are you trying to find out if your favorite festival is returning this year, or wondering about an upcoming development in town? Do you want to know where to get the best bowl of ramen? Is there a piece of the Twin City’s history you’ve always wanted to know about? What news gets you excited about opening our newsletter each morning?
Holiday Trivia Night | 7 p.m. | The Dutch Light | Cost of purchase | Gather a group of six and join the cocktail bar’s first trivia night for a chance to win a prize.
Wednesday, Dec. 18
Dirty Santa | 6:30-8 p.m. | Medaloni Cellars, Lewisville | Free | Bring a gift to exchange and earn a chance to steal your pick from the pack in a fun and casual environment.
“New to Winston” Ugly Sweater Party | 5-8 p.m. | East of Texas | Free | Meet others who are also new to the city, take part in Christmas cookie decorating, and enjoy chips + salsa on the house.
Thursday, Dec. 19
Beginner and Beyond Swing/Lindy Hop | 7:15-8 p.m. | Real World Ballroom | $15 | Review basics of the dance, learn new techniques, and adopt styles popular in the early 1900s.
Friday, Dec. 20
Spectacular Holiday Blooms | 5:30-9 p.m. | Paul J. Ciener Botanical Garden, Kernersville | $5 | Enjoy a stroll through the tulips, get lost in the illuminated trees, and discover more surprises in the garden with over 10,000 glowing “flowers.”
Saturday, Dec. 21
Motown Christmas | 7 p.m. | UR Coliseum, Walkertown | $77 | Experience a night filled with smooth rhythms, festive cheer, and small bites to support Delta Arts Center.
Wake Forest football head coach Dave Clawson is stepping down from his position. In his 11 seasons with the Deacs, he led them to seven consecutive bowl games. He isn’t leaving Wake Forest entirely, though. Clawson said he will be a special advisor to Athletics Director John Currie. (WFMY News 2)
Civic
Forsyth Board of Commissioners approved a new meeting schedule after residents voiced time conflict concerns. The meetings will take place every other Monday and Thursday at 2 p.m. A quarterly meeting will be held Thursday, March 13 at 6 p.m. The board will reevaluate the schedule after the three-month trial period. (WFDD)
Sports
The Carolina Thunderbirds have won nine straight games since Nov. 15. Cheer on the team as they flock to keep their streak going Friday, Dec. 20 against the Blue Ridge Bobcats at the Fairgrounds Arena. Puck drop is slated for 7:35 p.m. — tickets start at $17.
Cause
Trinity Moravian Church is working to purchase and forgive medical debt in NC. It has forgiven more than $18 million over the last three years and is hoping to raise $15,000. Give to the cause by Jan. 15 to help forgive $2 million of medical debt. (WXII 12 News)
Number
State Treasurer Dale R. Folwell awarded ~$182,000 in missing money to Winston-Salem State University. The funds come from credit balances and uncashed vendor payments belonging to the institution. Search if you have unclaimed cash waiting for you. (YES! Weekly)
Winstonian
Gracie Epperson took a big leap and landed her dream job with the Radio City Rockettes after auditioning for the role for six years. The Winston-Salem native moved to New York City at age 18 and tells her fellow Winstonians to never give up on their dream. (WXII 12 News)
Shop
City Editor Kellina here. It’s giving season. There’s still time to shop for everyone on your list. We’ve made the ultimate gift guide for your neighbors, parents, homebodies, you name it. See what local treasures you can find.
Travel
Going the EV route could save you more than just gas money. Many auto insurance companies now offer up to 10% off EV and hybrid vehicle premiums, rewarding your eco-friendly choice with additional savings. View Money’s Best Car Insurance list to find coverage tailored to your ride (and wallet).*
The Buy
The Buy
Whether you’re hosting or simply showing up to this year’s festive gatherings, cultivate holiday cheer with these lighthearted additions. ❄️ A set of holiday magnetic drink markers so you can tell everyone’s glass apart. ❄️ This best selling inflatable reindeer antler ring toss game the entire family will love. ❄️ Silly glasses for everyone to wear, available to celebrate Hanukkah or Christmas. ❄️ A 50-pack of fake snowballs so you can create a little chaos.
I’m looking forward to spending the holidays with my family back in Maryland. I’ll certainly miss the festivities in the Twin City. I’m curious, will you be home for the holidays or hit the road to spread the cheer? Let us know.
Answered
Answered
Last week, we asked what you love about WStoday and here’s what you said:
“The one that hooked me up with Winston Walkers.” — Elizabeth S.
“Love the arts coverage (city of the arts) and the stories that are about individuals helping each other!” — Benita V.
“I enjoyed reading about the old houses of Winston. Got the book that was featured in the story about the houses and their stories. Interesting learning about our past. And I am new to the area.” — Mike W.
“Your presentations are balanced and well rounded. Keep up the good work!” — Bob T.
“Some of the history pieces on locations in the city.” — Leigh A.
When it comes to the types of stories you enjoy reading the most on WStoday, 46% of you said you enjoy reading about business openings, 43% said you like reading about city history + development, and 11% responded with travel + wellness.
Thank you for all your kind feedback, Winstonians. The best way to support our work is to share it with your network. You can forward them this newsletter so they can subscribe.
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