Leafy vegetables already planted in Reynolda Gardens can give you inspiration. | Photo by WStoday
Want more from your lawn than just grass? You could turn it into a mini “national park.”
Meet Homegrown National Park, a nationwide grassroots movement that invites property owners to restore wildlife habitats through sustainable planting and the removal of invasive species.
Here’s how it works: Swap a portion of your lawn for native plants that support food webs for local fauna, then watch your yard transform into a natural oasis where wildlife thrives.
Registered habitats are tracked on a digital biodiversity map, so you can see which Winston-Salem neighbors are pitching in.
A Christmas Carol Drone Light Show | 6:30 p.m. | Truist Stadium | $15+ | Bring a blanket and cozy up under 500 dazzling drones as this timeless holiday tale is brought to life in the night sky.*
Welcome to this not-so-humble abode that sits on nearly an acre of land in the small town of Lewisville. Who needs a vacay when you’ve got a vibrant landscape with a waterfall cascading into the saltwater pool in your backyard? Lock in, Chad — get ready to step into main character energy.
Gallery
“A picture is worth a thousand words,” as the old adage goes. That means Time Magazine’s best 100 photos of the year could fill an encyclopedia. If you’ve taken a photo of Winston-Salem that you love this year, reply to this email and send it in — we’d love to share your best snaps.
Film
If “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” is on your watchlist this December, you’re in good company. The 1989 film is the most popular holiday film in North Carolina, per a new PixlParade report. Pro tip: Fuel your movie night with takeout from a new local restaurant.
Eat
It’s the most bun-derful time of the year. Google Trends data shows that December typically brings about an increased interest in baking at home. If you prefer your baked goodies made by an expert, there’s an abundance of excellent loaves around the Twin City.
Shop
Looking to spruce up your Christmas tree this year? Here’s one idea: You could recreate some classic styles from the 1950s and 1960s to add some vintage flair to your living room. It could be tough to find some of this stuff — Winston-Salem’s thrift stores might be able to help. (Country Living)
Number
$7.1 billion. That’s how much philanthropist MacKenzie Scott donated to nonprofits this year, including $50 million to Winston-Salem State University. You don’t need deep pockets to do your part. Help out a neighbor and do your part through these local volunteer opportunities instead. (ABC News)
“The process is super easy and far more cost-effective than using a recruiter.” That’s what one business owner said about hiring through our Job Board. See for yourself — post your open positions for free.
Finance
You’re smart — but your spending can still be dumb. These are the 11 dumbest things smart people waste money on.*
City Guide
🍸 After-Hours Agenda
Say goodbye to work stress. | Photo by Dram and Draught
Can we interest you in a post-work beverage? Gather your closest friends and colleagues and hit the town with this guide. Mocktail drinks are available upon request.
Stay for dinner
Spring House Restaurant, Kitchen and Bar, 450 N. Spring St. | Drink we love: Spring House Bramble
The restaurant’s library bar is perfect for a special occasion or when guests are in town.
Jeffrey Adams on Fourth, 321 W. 4th St. | Drink we love: White Chocolate Macchiato Martini
Sip on house-made syrups in several of the signature craft cocktails. Head upstairs for great views of downtown.
Mocktail musts
easytalk, 905 S. Broad St., Ste. 105 | Drink we love: Cardinal Pines
Choose from eight cocktails on the menu, which can also be made without alcohol. Enjoy coffee by day and specialty drinks with or without alcohol starting at 5 p.m.
Dram and Draught, 480 N. Patterson Ave., Ste. 120 | Drink we love: My Lady Grey
If you see a seasonal drink or a local specialty on the menu you want without liquor, ask the bartender to make modifications — or order from creative mocktails on the menu.
Speaking of drinks, have you visited Bamboo Lounge on Trade Street? This tiki bar brings the tropical vibes all year round; it’s like you’ve been transported to Hawaii. Plus, their holiday decor is always up to par.
Fresh, small-batch coffee from Trade. Take the quiz + get matched with coffee blends that align with your tastes and preferences. Bonus: Our readers get an exclusive 50% off their first month subscription — no code necessary.
This weekend, I got to experience “Handel’s Messiah” by Winston-Salem Symphony, and the crew brings it home every time. As a first timer, I definitely plan on coming back next year and making it a tradition. ICYMI, their next performance, “Night at Hogwarts,” is Saturday, Jan. 17, at Reynolds Auditorium. Tickets start at $10.
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