Local Events

HMF strives to create a musical experience that is void of all barriers, whether those be from learning differences, financial struggle, or physical ability. Through their outreach projects, performances, educational programs, and community development initiatives, HMF is able to provide music to individuals from all backgrounds and walks of life. The organization offers a wide variety of music programs for both children and adults, and provides access to instruments, instruction, and technology. HMF has been successful in creating a musical environment that is open to all, and has seen a positive impact on the community. Through their work, HMF has been able to bring music to the hearts of many, and increase appreciation of the art in the community. Their support of the arts has been a source of joy and pride for all of those involved.

The Lenoir-Rhyne Youth Chorus is an incredible opportunity for children ages 8-18 to discover the joy of singing and learn about the choral art. It is an educationally based program that provides a safe and nurturing environment for students to explore their creativity and develop a lifelong appreciation of music. With the guidance of their experienced instructors, children form lasting relationships with others while learning healthy vocal technique, sight-reading, and music theory. As part of their program, the students have the opportunity to perform in various venues, such as churches, civic organizations, and concerts around the world.

Ann Freeman Dance Academy studio is the perfect place for aspiring dancers of all ages! Our studio offers a variety of classes including ballet, pointe, tap, jazz, lyrical, contemporary, modern, hip hop, and acro. Our 61 years of experience and our commitment to continuing education for our staff ensures that students of all ages receive the dance education they need to reach their goals. Our adult classes have grown in popularity over the years, offering ballet, tap, jazz and now hip hop classes. Our staff are experienced and passionate about dance, and are committed to providing students with the best possible dance education. The Ann Freeman Dance Academy studio has been providing quality dance education for over 61 years. We are proud of our commitment to continuous education for our staff and our commitment to providing our students with the skills and knowledge to pursue their dance dreams!

At Louis Nunnery School of Ballet, we're dedicated to helping dancers reach their full potential. Our experienced faculty has a wealth of knowledge and expertise in all aspects of ballet, and we provide a nurturing environment for our students to develop their skills and artistry. We believe that dance should be accessible to everyone, and that all dancers should be given the opportunity to explore and refine their art. Our school offers classes for children as young as four, right through to adults. No matter your age or experience level, you can find a class that's right for you. We strive to provide a safe and encouraging atmosphere for students of all levels, and we emphasize the importance of having fun while learning.

At our organization, we believe that every child has the potential to reach their highest goals. We strive to create an inclusive environment where men, women, and children of all ages can come together and work towards a common goal. We are dedicated to nurturing the potential of kids, encouraging healthy lifestyles, and helping to instill a sense of social responsibility. We recognize the importance of creating a supportive atmosphere that promotes physical, emotional, and social development. We strive to provide opportunities for kids to learn, grow, and build strong relationships. From physical activities to community service projects, we provide activities that foster a sense of social responsibility. At our organization, we recognize the importance of providing a safe and welcoming environment for people of all ages and backgrounds. We strive to encourage healthy living and provide opportunities for kids to explore their potential. We are dedicated to promoting social responsibility in our community through our commitment to nurturing the potential of kids.

. Located in Hickory, North Carolina, Shooting Stars is a family-run business. We have a newly renovated 15,000 square foot facility with the safest Olympic state-of-the-art gymnastics, cheerleading, and tumbling equipment. Our enthusiastic staff has the experience to help children turn their dreams into reality. We offer a non-competitive program for boys and girls that focuses on the development of strength, flexibility, and balance. Gymnastics encourages children to challenge themselves, build confidence, and be more self-disciplined. We also focus on creating a fun and safe environment that helps children become happy, healthy, and confident. Don't miss out on being a part of the most exciting gymnastics program in Hickory. Visit us today!

First, Foothills Gymnastics offers physical benefits to your child. Not only will they get in shape, but they will also learn important body awareness and coordination skills that will help them in all areas of life. Second, Foothills Gymnastics offers mental and emotional benefits to your child. With constant reinforcement, your child will learn discipline, focus, problem solving, and goal setting. They will also learn to take criticism and give and receive encouragement in a positive atmosphere. Finally, Foothills Gymnastics offers spiritual benefits to your child. They will learn to appreciate the beauty of hard work and the rewards of success. They will also learn how to work as part of a team and find joy in helping others. At Foothills Gymnastics, we strive to challenge and develop all aspects of your child’s mind, body, and spirit. We believe that by participating in our programs, your child will become a stronger, more confident individual.

At Mountain View Karate Centers, students of all ages and all abilities can learn the art of American Ching Sai Do. This style of martial arts was founded in 1995 by Sensei Doug Armstrong and combines elements of Tae Kwon Do, Shinjimasu Go-Ju, and Small Circle Jiu-Jitsu. American Ching Sai Do is an exciting and dynamic form of martial arts that children of all ages can enjoy. Founded by Sensei Doug Armstrong in 1995, this martial arts style combines techniques from Tae Kwon Do, Shinjimasu Go-Ju, and Small Circle Jiu-Jitsu. At Mountain View Karate Centers, students of all ages and abilities can learn this unique art and develop the confidence and discipline that comes with martial arts training.

At the Mountain View Karate Center, the team to beat is Team MVKC! Nineteen world champions and countless state champions have come from this elite group of martial arts students, who have been trained by the esteemed Sensei Doug Armstrong and his team of coaches, Chasity Ellis, Drew Crowe, Trent Temple, and Chris Urcinola. These students compete at tournaments throughout the southeast, and they continue to bring home awards and accolades. Do you have a martial artist in the family? If so, the Mountain View Karate Center is the perfect place for them. With a team of 19 world champions, and countless state champions, Team MVKC is a force to be reckoned with. Coaches Chasity Ellis, Drew Crowe, Trent Temple, and Chris Urcinola, along with the esteemed Sensei Doug Armstrong, have led this team to success and have helped develop amazing martial artists. Students are competing all around the southeast and bringing home awards and accolades. Are you looking for a martial arts program that will help your child excel? Look no further than the Mountain View Karate Center! Home to Team MVKC, which has earned an impressive 19 world champions and numerous state champions, this program is truly elite. With Sensei Doug Armstrong at the helm, and coaches Chasity Ellis, Drew Crowe, Trent Temple, and Chris Urcinola, children are sure to get the best instruction and training. Team MVKC competes at tournaments throughout the southeast, and continues to bring home awards and recognition.

The Hickory Academy of Martial Arts has been a pillar of the community for more than 17 years. Founded in a garage, this family-friendly martial arts school has grown and flourished, fostering a vibrant environment that empowers and encourages students and families. Students can look forward to more than just becoming blackbelts and sport karate champions. They develop the skills and confidence to become leaders, applying the lessons from the mat to their everyday lives. The school prides itself on equipping students and families with the knowledge they need to be successful in the community. The Hickory Academy of Martial Arts is proud to have enriched the lives of so many families over the years. It is dedicated to continuing to provide a safe, welcoming environment that promotes the values of goal-setting, leadership, and respect. Here, students and families can find the support and guidance they need to thrive.

The Hickory Academy of Martial Arts is proud to have been the best family martial arts school in the area for over 17 years. It began as a small garage school, but has grown to become an important part of the community. We strive to enrich the lives of our students and their families through the martial arts. The school has produced fine black belts and sport karate champions, as well as successful competitors in jiu-jitsu. But more importantly, we help our students develop into confident, goal-oriented leaders. We encourage them to take the lessons they learn on the mat and apply them to their lives at home and in the community. We are especially proud of our long history of success and of the lasting impact we have had on our students and their families. Our goal is to continue to provide the best family martial arts school in the area for years to come.

Pottery has been a beloved craft for centuries, and continues to hold a special place in hearts around the world. Our pottery classes are perfect for anyone wanting to explore the creative and practical aspects of this special art form. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to further develop your technique, we have the perfect class for you. Our classes strive to provide the highest quality instruction for both beginner and advanced pottery enthusiasts. We will teach you the basics of working with clay, like forming, glazing, and firing, as well as more advanced techniques, like sculpting and hand-building. Our goal is to help you create works of art that are uniquely yours.

Hickory Ballet and Performing Arts is a top-notch dance and performing arts school serving the Hickory community. Founded in 2011 by Michael and Melissa French, the school has grown under the direction of Leanna Bodnar who assumed leadership in 2018. With her experience in Broadway theater, she has expanded the school's curriculum to include a wide array of dance and performing art classes. At Hickory Ballet and Performing Arts, there are classes for dancers and performers of all ages, from preschoolers to adults. The curriculum includes Classical Ballet, Pre-Pointe, Pointe, Broadway Repertoire, Musical Theatre, Jazz, Tap, Modern, Acro, and Voice. All classes are taught by highly qualified instructors. No matter your age or experience level, Hickory Ballet and Performing Arts has something for everyone. With their wide range of classes and experienced instructors, you can be sure to get the quality instruction you need to explore and express your creativity.

Founded by Master Coy Reid in the 1970s, he trained directly under Master Darrell Wilson and eventually was promoted to the prestigious rank of black belt in Kyokushinkai karate. In the years that followed, Master Dale Lail received his promotion to black belt and eventually even Master rank under the tutelage of Master Reid. In recent years, Master Lail has taken over as head instructor of the dojo and has continued to teach the same style that Master Reid taught nearly 50 years ago. He has made sure to uphold the traditions and legacy of the school and style, ensuring that it passes on to future generations. We are proud of the history of the Reid and Lail Karate School of Oyama and are honored to be able to continue to teach the same style Master Reid taught. We invite you to come and experience the same martial arts traditions and spirit that has been around for nearly half a century.

The YMCA Seahorse Swim Team (YSST) is a great way for your child to learn the basics of competitive swimming and gain valuable skills that will last a lifetime. Whether you’re looking to get your child started on a beginner level or want to have them compete at a higher level, YSST has a program that will help them reach their goals. With professional coaching and support from an active parent organization, your child will have the opportunity to hone their skills while competing in a safe and positive environment. Join us today and watch your child thrive!