While the arts are certainly alive and well in Sanford all year round, the month of October is particularly bursting at the seams with all manner of creative expression. From murals to musicals, jam sessions to scavenger hunts, ARTS-tober is one of those special times that calls for a visit or two.
Murals
Caterpillar and Wings
On the south-facing wall of 121 S. Steele St., inside Charlie Watson Lane, you’ll find one of the most whimsical murals in downtown Sanford. Marvel at the hungry, 3-D caterpillar that appears to be munching on a plant growing straight out of the concrete. From there, wander over to a beautiful set of butterfly wings and snap a pic in front of this 15-ft. interactive piece. Your Instagram feed will thank you.
Dr. Mary Margaret McLeod
This inspiring tribute to the founder of the first pediatric medical practice in Sanford graces the south-facing wall of 530 Carthage St. Dr. Mary Margaret McLeod, born in Lee County, went on to graduate with honors from Sanford High School and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. After moving back to Sanford in 1946, she started her pediatric medical practice which, at its peak, served 21,290 children.
J. D. McDuffie
With 653 cup starts and 106 top-10 finishes during his career, J. D. McDuffie is a bona fide NASCAR legend. Racing as No. 70, he has raced in cities all across North Carolina and beyond. McDuffie’s mural graces the west-facing wall of 329 Carthage St. Catch a glimpse of artistic renderings of the man himself and his legendary race car.
And Even More Murals!
The murals above are just part of the Sanford Mural Arts Trail that boasts many other inspiring examples of outdoor art. Keen observers will even spot a few “ghost murals” around town – original hand-painted advertisements and signs preserved forever in time.
Visual
Sanford Brush & Palette Annual Art Show
Oct 14 – 21
Visual art lovers will truly enjoy the Sanford Brush & Palette Club’s 58th Annual Art Show. Running throughout the second week of ARTS-tober, this show features original artwork by local, member artists. The club anticipates a large variety of works to be displayed at the Mann Center of NC. Mark your calendar and meet with artists while savoring the opportunity to appreciate beautiful artwork. Best of all, this event is absolutely free.
Performance
Temple Theatre
The Temple Theatre is known for hosting stellar plays and performances, and its ARTS-tober lineup doesn’t disappoint. Grab tickets now for Baskerville: A Sherlock Holmes Mystery to watch our favorite investigators solve a family curse before it dooms its newest heir. Five actors portray more than 40 characters in this quirky tale of mystery and intrigue. While you’re enjoying that show, you might as well plan your return visit this December for the theatre’s rendition of A Christmas Story. Trust us, you won’t regret it!
Lee County Orchestra
Sanford’s hometown orchestra brings the house down with their free concerts of classical and popular music. This group of volunteer musicians has been hard at work prepping their 2023-24 concert series, “Explorations.” The season opens the weekend of October 14th with “Visions: Love & Landscapes,” a program that features orchestral favorites like Tchaikovsky’s Romeo and Juliet Fantasy Overture and Sibelius’s Finlandia, plus Reinecke’s Flute Concerto from flute soloist Jillian Storey. In addition, this 2023-24 season premiere sets the stage for their next amazing concert, “Enchantments: A Holiday Celebration“.
Local Music & Bands
There’s always a band set or two gracing small stages at several downtown spots. You can always count on Hugger Mugger Brewing and Smoke and Barrel to showcase local talent on the regular. Round out your trip with a few drinks, a bite to eat, and musical stylings that are sure to please.
Interactive
Train Scavenger Hunt
Get to know downtown Sanford while on an ARTS-tober hunt for 12 miniature bronze train replicas of the Number 12 Locomotive in Depot Park. This family-friendly activity begins with a stop at 115 Chatham St. to pick up a passport book to use as a guide. You can also download a passport in advance and hit the ground running when you arrive. Once completed, they can be returned for a prize!
Here’s hoping you enjoy a creative, inspiring, and fun ARTS-tober!
