National North Carolina Day Recognized Across the State

US, NC flags — Coastal Carolina News File Photo

Observance highlights history, agriculture, culture, and statewide contributions

By Coastal Carolina News Staff Writer

North Carolina residents mark September 28 as National North Carolina Day, an annual observance recognizing the state’s heritage, communities, and long‑standing influence across the country.

The date, set each year on September 28, was established in 2017 as part of a national initiative honoring each state in the order it joined the Union.

North Carolina became the twelfth state in 1789 following its ratification of the U.S. Constitution.

The observance highlights several defining elements that shape North Carolina’s identity. Agriculture remains central to the state’s history, with cotton and tobacco long serving as foundational crops across the eastern counties. North Carolina is also one of the nation’s leading producers of Christmas trees, with Fraser fir farms in the mountain region supplying trees nationwide. Sweet‑potato production continues to place the state at the top of national rankings, while poultry and hog farming represent major components of the state’s agricultural economy.

Food culture also plays a significant role in the state’s identity. Barbecue traditions, including Eastern whole‑hog and Lexington pork‑shoulder styles, remain widely recognized across communities and continue to anchor local gatherings and regional pride. Several well‑known soft drinks carry North Carolina ties, including Cheerwine from Salisbury, Sun Drop’s long‑standing presence in the Carolinas, and Pepsi, first formulated in New Bern in 1893.

North Carolina’s contributions extend beyond agriculture and food traditions. Aviation history is closely linked to the state through the Wright Brothers’ first powered flight at Kitty Hawk in 1903, a milestone that remains central to the state’s identity. Military installations such as Fort Liberty and Camp Lejeune support thousands of service members and families, reinforcing the state’s role in national defense. The Research Triangle’s universities and technology centers continue to drive scientific advancement, innovation, and economic growth.

Coastal communities, manufacturing, forestry, and tourism also contribute to the state’s broad identity, reflecting the diversity of North Carolina’s regions from the mountains to the coast. National North Carolina Day offers residents an opportunity to recognize these contributions and reflect on the traditions, industries, and communities that continue to shape the state.