Issues

December 2025

Decked Out for the Holidays

I’ll be the first to admit: my outdoor holiday light displays never turn out great, and you won’t see any cars slowing down in front of the Gates house. Our neighborhood, on the other hand, always puts on a good show. The same can be said for communities across North Carolina, and we’re highlighting a few of those worthy of a Christmas card. From all of us at Carolina Country, have a wonderful holiday season. We’re looking forward to more great stories in 2026!

—Scott Gates, editor

The White Elephant in the Room

Joe Hobby reflects on Christmas games gone wrong

What’s the Worst Gift You’ve Ever Received?

Share in the merry cheer (and horror) with stories submitted by our readers

Hometowns for the Holidays

Small towns across NC boast Hallmark holiday vibes

More Power

More Power

Warm Weather May Leave NC Dreaming of a White Christmas

What to expect from seasonal NC snows

More Power

NC Co-ops Partner to Support ‘Girl Power’ Camp

Nash Community College inspires next generation of women in utility and infrastructure careers.

More Power

Lineworkers Test Skills at 2025 Pole Top Rescue Competition

Cameron Clark of Lumbee River achieves fastest time among 23 other lineworkers.

Carolina Kitchen

Chicken Fried Ribeye Surf & Turf Sandwich

Chorizo Cheese Balls

Banana Pudding Pavlova

Everybody loves grandma’s old-fashioned banana pudding with cooked custard. We flipped ours upside down and put the meringue on the bottom for this fun pavlova.