The Town of Oriental is celebrating 125 years this weekend. Today's events include a marathon history series covering the town's development from 1899 to present. This year's theme is Year of the Dragon, and tomorrow, the town will break out the dragon mascot for its street parade. Ginger Barnett, an organizer for the celebration, says the weekend will be full of events for everyone.
"We will have about 40 food and craft vendors at Lou Mac Park tomorrow as well as music from noon to 8:30 with all Oriental musicians," Barnett said.
Founded in 1899, the town's early economy was supported by lumber, fishing and farming. As those industries began declining in the 1950s with the end of rail service to the area, Oriental's claim to fame as "Sailing Capital of North Carolina" started taking hold. In 1960, just four sailboats called Oriental home. Today, more there are more than 3,000. To mark the occasion, the town is hosting events throughout the weekend, including vendors, live music and a parade.
"We have a sailboat parade that's gonna be out in the water at 2 right off of Lou Mac Park," Barnett said.
The street parade is scheduled for tomorrow at 11 with a boat parade and race set for two tomorrow. A complete schedule of this weekend's festivities is available here at towndock.net.
