March in North Carolina tends to be when things start warming up and getting outside feels a little more tolerable. That means it’s time to take a day – or even – weekend trip with the family somewhere fun. In this month’s Getaway Guide, I share a small NC town that even those who have lived in the state their entire lives often overlook.
Lumberton is a quaint town with tons of potential for family fun. Every March, the town hosts its annual Rumba on the Lumber Festival which originated as a 10K and has grown into a full blown, weekend-long festival for the entire family. It’s a great reason to visit a part of North Carolina you might have overlooked in the past.
Discover a Hidden Gem of a Town
Like many small towns, Lumberton offers so much more than a place to pass through. Although, it’s actually the halfway point between New York and Florida on I-95, making it a convenient stop for anyone traveling that long journey.
Jef Lambdin, Coordinator of Rumba on the Lumber Festival shares what makes Lumberton special, “The people – diverse and friendly – are always willing to share their stories and culture.”
It’s an easy drive and mostly straight down I-74, which is one of the less congested and not as accident prone highways in NC. You’ll find it situated south of Fayetteville and just north of the South Carolina border.
Top Three Things To Do in Lumberton
Outside of The Rumba on the Lumber Festival, there are three other stops you shouldn’t miss.
- Exploration Station – This children’s museum focuses on hands-on exhibits for interactive learning and fun.
- NEW Inclusive Playground at Pennington Sports Complex – In addition to the new playground, the 140-acre park features six baseball/softball fields, five batting cages, two regulation football/soccer fields, .75 mile walking trail, two picnic shelters and more.
- Downtown Lumberton – The downtown area features numerous art displays and installations, dining establishments, shopping options and a River Walk.
Why Visit in March?
This is a fun small town to explore any time of year, but in March, it really comes alive with the Rumba on the Lumber Festival.
Jeff Cushing began The Rumba on the Lumber 26 years ago. As the years passed, the race became so much more than a race. Today, it is a true festival in every sense of the word.
This year, visitors will find the festival includes a 5K/10K/Fun Mile run and walk, North of the Border Chili Cook-Off, KidsZone area, craft and food vendors, live music and entertainment, and a beer garden.
One of the best things about this festival is that most of it is free. Plus, the town has plenty of free parking near the festival which is a rarity in larger towns and cities! Families won’t want to miss the KidsZone which includes a rock climbing wall, obstacle courses, giant slide, bounce houses, soccer kick and frisbee toss!
It’s a great way to spend a day or weekend as a family and create unforgettable core memories together!
Details to Visit Lumberton & Attend Rumba on the Lumber Festival
Distance from Winston-Salem: Around two and a half hours
Learn more about Lumberton: lumberton-nc.com
Learn more about Rumba on the Lumber Festival: rumbaonthelumber.com
Dates: Rumba on the Lumber Festival takes place Friday, March 7th – Saturday, March 8th
Instagram: @lumbertonvisitorsbureau
