THROUGH EARLY NOVEMBER Cashiers

Bear shadow on the mountain

The “Shadow of the Bear,” near Cashiers in southern Jackson County, is visible for about 30 minutes daily (5:30-6 p.m.) through early November. During this period, the much-photographed bear-like shadow comes out of hibernation as the autumn sun sets behind Whiteside Mountain (elevation: 4,930 feet). This natural phenomenon can best be viewed from the Rhodes Big View Overlook on U.S. 64, approximately 4.5 miles west of Cashiers.

STARTS IN NOVEMBER Edenton

Events begin for town’s tricentennial

The historic coastal town of Edenton is unwrapping events early for its 2013 tricentennial – starting in November. They include the Nov. 1 opening of displays of Revolutionary/Colonial memorabilia at the Shepard-Pruden Library, 1758 Cupola House, 1767 Chowan County Courthouse, Barker House, Iredell House and visitor center. A birthday celebration on the town green Nov. 4 includes cupcakes and entertainment. Details on related happenings through December 2013: www.visitedenton.com.

NOV. 2-3 Dillsboro

Clay Olympics - and show

The Western North Carolina Pottery Festival, Nov. 2-3 in Dillsboro, features 45 potters from North Carolina and 12 other states, including featured potters Tony and Mindy Winchester of Iowa. From 1 to 5 p.m. Nov. 2, 20 festival potters will compete in Clay Olympics events. On Nov. 3 – the event’s main day – potters will demonstrate their craft in booths lining Front Street from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission: $3; free for 12 and younger. Details: www.wncpotteryfestival.com.

NOV. 2-3 Wrightsville Beach

Free-to-see kite festival

The annual Cape Fear Kite Festival returns to Shell Island Resort in Wrightsville Beach Nov. 3-4. Enthusiasts will display their kites both days. Details: www.VisitWrightsvilleBeachNC.com (click “Events Calendar) and via “Cape Fear Kite Festival” on Facebook.

NOV. 7 Charlotte

‘Appalachian Trail’ coming to town

As part of its membership drive, the Appalachian Trail Conservancy will screen the National Geographic film “America’s Wild Spaces: The Appalachian Trail” at Charlotte’s Crownpoint Theater, 9630 Monroe Road, at 7:30 p.m. Nov. 7. Guest speakers include Trevor “Zero Zero” Thomas, a blind long-distance hiker, author and motivational speaker. The two-hour event will include raffles and prizes. Suggested admission: $30. Details/reservations: www.appalachiantrail.org/discover (enter promo code PRATC12 to receive $5 off your reservation).

John Bordsen

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