Sort of like this, but outside. | Photo by WStoday
A cool breeze, some vitamin D, and a good book. Does it get much better than that?
If you ask a resident of South Korea’s capital city, Seoul, the answer would probably be a resounding “no.” The city’s innovative Outdoor Library concept recently drew in a million visitors in just three months, and has attracted 6 million since launching in 2022.
What is it?
“The Seoul Outdoor Library is designed as a vibrant space where people can freely read books and engage in cultural activities outside the traditional library setting,” according to the official city website. The space features chairs, rentable books, and multiple locations.
You, me, a book, the park? | Photo via Forsyth County Government
Where would one go in Winston-Salem?
Our vote? The new Highland Avenue Park. There’s plenty of shade cover to suppress the North Carolina heat, open spaces for lounging, beautiful greenery for the perfect visual backdrop, and a play area for the kiddos to keep themselves entertained.
Asked
Asked
Where would you put an outdoor library in Winston-Salem?
We’d love to share your ideas in a future newsletter.
A Book Talk with Antonio Michael Downing | 6:30-7:30 p.m. | Bookmarks | Free with reservation | Join the author for a talk about his new book, “Black Cherokee,” a powerful coming-of-age story set in South Carolina.
Free Pickleball | 6-9 p.m. | Foothills Brewing Tasting Room | Free | Meet other players for varying levels of play, stay for half off wine by the glass + enjoy a karaoke session afterward.
Wednesday, Aug. 27
Foot Soldier Run Club | 6-8 p.m. | Foothills Brewing Tasting Room | Free | Join this group that meets weekly for a run and a pint — get $1 off pints of the bartender’s choice.
Night Paddles | 8-10 p.m. | Lake Higgins Marina, Summerfield | $8+ | You can rent a kayak or bring your own for a tranquil moonlight adventure on the lake.
Thursday, Aug. 28
Fairways & Cocktails | 5:30-8:30 p.m. | 1000 Club Rd, Greensboro | $38 | Make new friends and improve your game in this friendly, women-only golfing environment — all skill levels welcome.
Free Yoga in the Park | 6:30-7 p.m. | 192 N. Main St., Mocksville | Free | Decompress from the first four days of the work week with a sweat sesh in the great outdoors — remember a mat, towel, and water.
Friday, Aug. 29
Karaoke Night | 8-11 p.m. | Miller’s on Robinhood | Free | Grab the mic and hit the stage with your favorite tunes at the family-friendly sports bar, and dominate the arcade, darts, and a game of billiards while you’re at it.
Pollinator Tours | 11:30 a.m., 1 p.m. | Old Salem Museums & Gardens | Free | Learn more about how native pollinators help flowers and crops thrive in WS, and their importance in our future.
Monday, Sept. 29
Greater Winston-Salem Inc. Annual Golf Tournament | 10:30 a.m.-5 p.m. | Bermuda Run Country Club | $1,000 | Get ready to swing, sip + socialize for a good cause, WS. Teams of four will compete across 18 holes, with player perks that include drinks, lunch, giveaways, and a special post-tournament reception.*
🎭 Find what moves you: 100+ new performances announced
Presented by University of North Carolina School of the Arts
Photos courtesy UNCSA, credit Luke Jamroz, Wayne Reich, Allison Lee Isley, and Tony Spielberg
Just a few days ago, the University of North Carolina School of the Arts unveiled its 2025-26 performance season: “UNCSA Presents.”
Featuring free shows, low-cost events, and even customizable performance packages, this season’s showcase offers locals and visitors the chance to experience the world-class artistry of UNCSA students, faculty, alumni, and acclaimed guests.
Disciplines range from dance, drama, and opera to jazz, film, and so, so much more (full schedule here).
Time is running out to enter the Carolina Classic Fair’s Culinary Competition. Registration is open until Monday, Sept. 1, and there are a wide range of categories. So, if you fancy yourself an expert in bread, cheesecake, wine, pies, cookies, or pretty muchanything else, make sure to sign up. (Winston-Salem Journal)
Festival
Speaking of delicious food. A global cultural celebration is coming to Winston Square Park on Saturday, Sept. 6. The International Village Food & Music Festival is a chance to explore a multitude of cuisines, browse international crafts, and learn more about the diverse cultures which make up this city.
Sports
It’s almost time for Demon Deacons football to return. Yesterday, coach Jake Dickert announced that redshirt senior Robby Ashford will start at quarterback for the season opener this Friday, Aug. 29. Ashford is in his sixth year of college, and Wake Forest is his fourth school. Get excited, and get tickets. (Winston-Salem Journal)
Today Is
National Dog Day, a chance to celebrate and appreciate the four-legged friends who fill our lives with joy + unconditional love. It’s also an opportunity to raise awareness about the pups who need a home. Here in Winston-Salem, our animal shelters are always looking for potential fosters and adopters.
Cause
The Art SHAC is looking for volunteers. The creative reuse nonprofit’s mission is to inspire creativity, sustainability, and community, and is inviting the public in to help out. Don’t worry if you’re not the artsy type, there are plenty of other ways to volunteer in the Twin City, too.
Job
The holiday season is a ways away, but Forsyth County Parks and Recreation is already hiring for the Tanglewood Festival of Lights 2025. The spectacular seasonal event kickstarts its 34th year in mid-November, and runs through the New Year.
Need to fill your open role fast? Post your job listing on our hyper-local Job Board + get connected with top local talent. Did we mention it’s free?
Home
How smart homeowners preserve their property (and their weekends): using Homebuddy for a one-time install of top-rated gutter guards that require zero maintenance. Compare local offers now.*
The perfect stadium accessory: this clear crossbody bag for all your gameday essentials. We love this option’s adjustable strap, smooth zipper, and chic hardware.
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.
Wait, where’s Kellina? Don’t worry, your wonderful newsletter editor will be back tomorrow, I’m just holding down the fort for the day.
It looks like the weather is going to be beautiful this week. With the first glimpses of fall rolling in, a local hike would go down a treat. And so would a frozen treat.