In 2016, the Whisnants celebrated their 3rd Annual Homecoming in their hometown of Morganton, North Carolina. This Gospel Sing is a two night event hosted by the Whisnants that feature several groups each evening. To give you an idea of talent, they had artists such as Ivan Parker, Karen Peck & New River, Mark Trammell Quartet and Greater Vision in 2016. You can read my reviews from each evening by visiting these links -> Whisnants Homecoming – Part 1 and Whisnants Homecoming – Part 2. Each evening featured four artists – the Whisnants plus three guest groups.
What I loved most about the Whisnants Homecoming was that it didn’t just feel like another Gospel Sing – it truly felt like you were spending a weekend with the Whisnants, one-on-one. They included their family in everything. Jeff’s brother, John Whisnant, was the emcee and regaled the crowd with stories of how they grew up singing with their parents. Susan pointed out her parents in the audience and shared how the Lord has been faithful to their family over the years and with the birth of Aaron and Suzanne’s baby girl, photos of the new family appeared on the screens at the appropriate times in the evening. If you’re looking for a weekend that will make you feel like you’re at home, try the Whisnants Homecoming!
The Venue
The Whisnants Homecoming is held at the City of Morganton Municipal Auditorium in downtown Morganton, North Carolina. The building offered water and a limited selection of soda available for sale in the lobby; which was the designated concessions area.
The Homecoming is a ticketed event. In 2016, tickets were $20 for Reserved Seating and $25 for the Artist Circle. (Considering that four artists sing each night, you’re only paying $5-$6 a group – a GREAT deal in my opinion!)
Seating is reserved! The thing I enjoyed about the COMMA was the seating in the auditorium. Comfy theater seats were set up on a gradual slope – no worries about seeing over the row in front of you, everyone has a great view of the stage!
The 2017 Whisnants Homecoming is set for the first weekend in March! I will post the artist lineup when it becomes available.
Area Restaurants
If you speak to the Whisnants about their hometown of Morganton, they may humbly tell you that there’s not much there. I, on the other hand, disagree! The town was of considerable size and offered a variety of places to eat, with staples such as Cracker Barrel, Applebee’s and Chic-Fil-A if you’re a fast food person.
Local restaurants that rate on the Top 10 in Morganton include…
Friday Friends – We had lunch here and I had a Buffalo Wing wrap, it was served with chips and a pickle. My sister tried their bean burrito quesadilla. Large portions. Very tasty.
Abeles – This restaurant has the option of a menu or buffet – the buffet was my favorite.
My Local Bakery – If you’re in the mood for a sweet, check out this family owned shop. Folks say the cupcakes are amazing! Recommendations would range from flavors like “salted caramel,” “Red Velvet” and “peanut butter lovers.”
Las Salsas – A Mexican restaurant that rates #4 on the Top 10!
Timberwoods – This restaurant doesn’t look like much from the outside, but the food is great! Served family style with choice of dessert. The mashed potatoes and steak were amazing!
Any of these would make a great choice! Morganton has a great selection of restaurants for dining. Whether you want to stick to the main chain eateries or enjoy a local restaurant, you won’t lack for a selection!
Shopping
If you’re looking for a way to pass time in the afternoon and enjoy shopping, I’ll point out that there are plazas where you can do just that! Stores like TJ Maxx, Ross, Maurice’s, Cato and others similar are available.
Lodging
You can find lodging at the Comfort Inn and Suites in Morganton. I stayed there this year (2016) – they offered a free continental breakfast and of course, wifi.
What do you want to know about the Whisnant’s Homecoming and/or Morganton, North Carolina? Comment with your questions below and I’ll do my best to answer them!
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