With the chill breeze on the air, its almost safe to say that summer weather has come and gone. That doesn’t mean, however, that Beaufort County is quite ready to go into hibernation. On the contrary, looking ahead to this weekend, there’s quite a bit of fun and entertainment to be had for area residents and visitors, with events appealing to a wide variety of personalities.

For the history buffs among us, Bath is the place to be this weekend. Celebrating three centuries of history relating to the pirate Blackbeard, the Tricentennial Celebration promises to be a happening worthy of the ages. With interpreters, educational programming and a live sea battle off of Bonner’s Point, the celebration lasts all day on Saturday.

At the same time the pirates take over Bath, the pigs will be out in full force in Washington, as the Washington (Noon) Rotary hosts its annual Smoke on the Water Festival. Bringing together some of the top pig smokers and chili chefs in Eastern North Carolina, this event’s festive atmosphere will undoubtedly have something for everyone.

Held in conjunction with SOTW, the Arts of the Pamlico Blues and Jazz Festival will offer music lovers a chance to indulge in the musical stylings of no less than four exceptional bands.

For the party-lovers out there, the Wine Crate’s Crates Block Party Ever offers a chance to sip on some delicious libations and cut a rug on Water Street.

Those looking for a scare will want to check out two events on the south side of the river. At Raised in a Barn Farm a partnership with Haunted Pamlico promises a terrifying haunted trail experience during the farm’s annual Nights of Fright. Just down the road at Hematoma Paintball Fields, a zombie thrill ride will offer chills for those who dare brave the course.

All this is to say that there’s not really any good excuse to just stay home this weekend. It won’t be terribly long before winter comes knocking on our door, so take this opportunity to enjoy some fantastic fall events.