Abiding by the rules ensures that every resident feels respected which creates a stronger sense of community. | Photo by WStoday
How well do you know the laws in Winston-Salem? Thanks to one of our readers, Richard L., we’ve done the digging for you to uncover some unusual laws, ordinances, or regulations that citizens may not be aware of. We’ve listed them in no particular order. Let’s test if you’re a good citizen.
Rule 1: Burying trees and plants
It’s illegal to bury any trees, brush, stumps, limbs or other organic material within the city, except where a demolition landfill permits.
Rule 2: Hosting a bonfire
To prevent fires, having a bonfire on private property or public ground is illegal unless approved by the city. This does not apply to outdoor cooking and other recreational purposes.
Rule 3: Setting off fireworks
Some fireworks, including firecrackers, aerial fireworks, and bottle rockets, are illegal to possess in the state of NC. Violators could be fined up to $500 and face imprisonment of up to six months.
Closing Weekend: Winston Salem Open 2025 | Friday, Aug. 22-Saturday, Aug. 23 | 8 a.m.-10 p.m. | Wake Forest Tennis Center | $84+ | Don’t miss out on doubles and singles finalists battling on the court for a spot at the US Open grand finale.
Salsa Dance at the Coal Pit | 7-11 p.m. | Incendiary Brewing Company | $10 | Brush up on your dancing, you move to the beat of Latin music, fine-tune your spin, and stay for social dance after the first hour of instruction.
GRAMMY Award-winner Mavis Staples | 8 p.m. | The Ramkat | $86+ | Hailed by NPR as “one of America’s defining voices of freedom and peace,” witness the Rock and Roll Hall of Famer + civil rights icon deliver a soul-stirring performance.
Saturday, Aug. 23
Art-o-mat Swap Meet | 11 a.m.-3 p.m. | NCMA, Winston-Salem | Free | Celebrate nearly 30 years of Art-o-mat by swapping art or shopping from over 60 artists.
Camel City Curator Talk | 2 p.m. | Reynolda House Museum of American Art | $25 | Join co-curators Bari Helms and Phil Archer as they explore the layered history of the Reynolds Tobacco empire and how it shaped Winston-Salem.
Sunsets & Cinema: “The Italian Job” | 8 p.m. | Foothills Tasting Room | $15 | “I’m in. I’m always in.” Watch what happens when Charlie Croker is double-crossed after he pulls off a crime of a lifetime — bring your chair or blanket to watch the screening at sundown.
The Brim Bar Pop Up + Cotton & Steel live | 9:30-12 p.m. | Earl’s | Cost of purchase | Get permanent jewelry, hat + boot branding from the pop-up, plus stay for live music.
Sunday, Aug. 24
Back to the ‘90s Birthday Bash | 12:30-5:30 p.m. | Old Homeplace Vineyard | Free | Dress in your best 1990s outfit, listen to live music from Luke Cope, Dustin Bryan, and other local musicians. Food trucks will be on site.
Calling all green thumbs — The Garden Club Council is accepting applications for community gardens within Forsyth County. Whether you’re creating one from scratch or need funds to maintain an existing green space, you can apply by Monday, Sept. 1. Funds can go towards tree planting, gardening tools, and landscape materials.
Shop
Looking for unique pieces? The Millennium Center is listing items for auction as the event space expands and develops a new conference center. Bid on items, including new tables, chairs, commercial kitchen equipment, and even framed art by late local artist “Sam the Dot Man”. Attend the preview sale on Tuesday, Sept. 2, from 5 to 8 p.m.
Active
Make your Strava stat count for a good cause. Registration for the Moonlight 5K madness, benefitting United Way of Forsyth County is open. Stride at your own pace under the stars at this family-friendly event featuring live music, craft beer, and a vibrant ambiance. Sign up for the race taking place Saturday, Sept. 6 at Bailey Park.
Edu
Salem College is celebrating another record undergraduate enrollment year. The incoming freshmen class increased by 19% for Fall 2025, representing students from 19 states, Puerto Rico, D.C., and two countries. Find out what makes our college scene one-of-a-kind.
Award
A round of applause to these seven standout Winstonians who have left a mark on the Winston-Salem community. Peggy M., Sandra A., Mary Ann D., Bill D., Susan F., Gene B., and David W. took home the 7 over Seventy Awards, which honor older adults who have made a significant impact on Forsyth County.
Answered
Yesterday, we asked what year the City of Winston merged with the Town of Salem. 61% of you responded “1913.” 28% selected “1892" and 21% chose “1925.” Not bad, Winstonians. The majority takes the win once again. Read up on how these two communities turned into one.
Christmas in ... August? If you’re a local business with a product or service you’d like to share with our readers this holiday season, consider securing your promo now before we sellout. Our Holiday Shopping Spotlight Bundle includes three newsletter inclusions discounted by 20%.
RJ Reynolds High School’s stadium is nearly ready to open. Work is still being done on the bleachers and the box office. The school will host its grand opening ribbon cutting ceremony on Monday, Sept. 5.
The fun doesn’t have to end here. After reading the newsletter, head over to our games page. Games refresh with new challenges every day at 6 a.m. from crossword puzzle to Sudoku to themed word search.
How about a smooth live jazz night to end your weekend? The John Coltrane International Jazz festival will make an appearance during the Bubbles and live Jazz Brunch at Sir Winston Wine Loft & Restaurant this Sunday, Aug. 24. Reserve your table from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. for a gourmet Bloody Mary bar, a mimosa station, and a complimentary glass of champagne. Very cutesy. Very demure.
}})
