Memorial Weekend in Elkin: Where To Go And What To Do

Memorial Day Weekend marks the unofficial start of summer—and there’s no better place to celebrate than right here in Elkin. With a long weekend on the horizon, it's the perfect time to explore the trails, paddle the river, sip local wine, listen to live music, and enjoy the kind of small-town charm that makes this corner of the Yadkin Valley so special.

Here’s how to enjoy your long weekend in the Yadkin Valley to the fullest:

Paddle into Summer: Kayakin' the Yadkin

Start your weekend with a splash! Explore and float down the scenic Yadkin River. Start your float or paddle at mile 140 at Ronda Memorial Park and float down to mile 133 at Crater Park in Elkin, free parking and easy access make these the perfect start and end points for your adventure. The river’s calm, beginner-friendly waters are ideal for a relaxing paddle, with views of lush greenery, hidden sandbars, and maybe even a bald eagle or two.

Find the Beat: Let the Local Tunes Guide Your Weekend Way

Live music is the heartbeat of Elkin’s weekends—and Memorial Day is packed with performances. Catch the sound of summer with acoustic sets at local wineries and high-energy shows on Elkin’s stages, there are so many ways to enjoy the sounds of the Yadkin Valley:

• Friday Night Live, Explore Elkin’s weekly outdoor music series with rotating downtown locations

• The River Stage at the Yadkin Valley Heritage & Trails Center

• catch a show at the Reeves Theater

• Local wineries, breweries & taprooms

• Downtown restaurants

  
  

Whether you’re dancing in the street or relaxing with a glass of wine, you’ll find the perfect soundtrack for your weekend. Check the Explore Elkin live music calendar to see who’s playing—and where—each night.

Backyard BBQ Vibes, Local Style

If firing up the grill isn’t in the plans, Elkin’s got you covered. These local spots are serving up smoky, savory, and satisfying bites all weekend long:

• Royall’s BBQ – A local favorite for classic chopped BBQ, hushpuppies, and Southern staples

• Angry Troll Brewing – Brisket, burgers, and craft beer on the patio

• Woodbox BBQ – Smoked meats done right, with generous portions and all the fixings

• Cowboy Restaurant – A laid-back spot known for hearty plates, big flavor, and friendly service

  
  

Planning a picnic? Swing by the Elkin Farmers Market (Saturday mornings) or Combs Butcher Shoppe to stock up on local meats, fresh produce, and weekend-ready snacks. Don’t forget to stop by The Barking Coyote Kitchen for pre-made salads and artisan goods, or Donna Kaye’s for sandwiches, deli meats, and fresh-cut cheeses—perfect for building a picnic worth remembering.

Wineries & Long Weekend Wandering

It wouldn’t be a Yadkin Valley weekend without a little wine. Spend a laid-back afternoon at one of Elkin’s local vineyards—many featuring live music, food trucks, and plenty of space to spread out and stay awhile:

• Jones von Drehle

• Grassy Creek Vineyard

• Golden Road Vineyards

• Elkin Creek Vineyard

  
  

Want to turn it into a full wine adventure? Book a ride with The Elkin Vine Line, a local shuttle service that makes it easy to sip, relax, and winery-hop without the hassle.

Be sure to check the Explore Elkin event calendar or sign up for the weekly newsletter for up-to-date info on winery events, live music, and food truck schedules all weekend long.

Reflect & Remember

While Memorial Day Weekend is a time for fun and connection, it’s also a moment to honor and remember those who served.

Take a quiet stroll through downtown Elkin, where American flags line the streets and local pride is on display, or stop by the Yadkin Valley Heritage & Trails Center to explore exhibits and learn more about the region’s history. Keep an eye out for the many historical markers scattered along Main Street and nearby trails—they each have a story to tell.

Experience the Best of Elkin This Memorial Day

Memorial Weekend in Elkin offers something for everyone. It’s a weekend that invites you to slow down, explore, and savor the season—no matter how you like to spend your time.

Here’s to good weather, good company, and a small-town weekend that feels like summer’s first big exhale.

We’ll see you out there.