Good morning, Hickory.

A Catawba County funeral director appears on digital billboards in Times Square in a national campaign that shines a light on a profession that often works quietly behind the scenes.

Due to weather, the City of Hickory moved last Friday's Sails Original Music Series indoors to Hickory Community Theatre, where Rachel Sumner & Traveling Light performed at 7 p.m. in downtown Hickory.

Bunker Hill High School (class of 2026) held its graduation on Friday, May 22, where 193 students received diplomas; among them, 134 will pursue secondary education.

Maiden held its graduation ceremony for 234 students, and a speaker noted (no one walks across this stage by themselves) that local support helped each graduate succeed.

About 240 students graduated from Hickory High Friday night in a ceremony celebrating academic success and community spirit.

Principal Wendi Craven said the graduates are chain breakers and way makers for future generations.

NC Department of Health and Human Services urged residents to be cautious as summer activities increased for National Water Safety Month.

Officials advised parents to supervise children near pools and other water areas (drowning remains a leading cause of death for young children) and reminded everyone to stay hydrated and cool.

At Hickory Motor Speedway, Caden Kvapil won the Tar Heel 250 on Thursday, May 21 after an epic late-race challenge with Carson Brown — who led early stages.

Officials postponed the Carolina 250 due to rain, and refunds will be issued for tickets.

The Lenoir-Rhyne men’s lacrosse team had four players receive USILA All-America honors on May 22.

Donovan Powell (first team) shined while Matthew Mancini (second team) and Mac Murphy and John Mink (honorable mentions) marked a strong season at Lenoir-Rhyne.

Charleston RiverDogs vs. Hickory Crawdads

6:30-9:30 p.m. — L. P. Frans Stadium — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a thrilling baseball game featuring the Charleston RiverDogs and Hickory Crawdads.

PMP Certification Training in Hickory, NC

9 AM – 5 PM — Hickory North Carolina — $1599 — Enhance your project management skills with comprehensive PMP certification training over four days.

Hank Williams Jr Tribute Concert

7-10 p.m. — The Premier — Tickets starting at $20.78 — Experience high-energy performances of Hank Williams Jr.'s classic hits by a top tribute band.

Furniture Manufacturing Expo 2026

Trade Show — June 3-4 — Hickory Metro Convention Center — Entry fee varies — Explore the latest innovations in furniture manufacturing with over 300 exhibitors.

Candlelight Concert Series in Hickory

7-8 p.m. — Hickory, NC — Ticket purchase required — Enjoy an intimate musical experience in a candle-lit setting.

Concerts by Candlelight

7-8 p.m. — Hickory North Carolina — Ticketed event — Experience an intimate musical performance illuminated by candlelight in a historic venue.