walking tour unc chapel hill

We have extended the  enrollment deadline to May 15, 2024 . View the announcement .

Schedule Your Visit

We look forward to introducing you to Carolina.

In-Person Tours

Come join us for a welcome session and campus tour! Talk with current students and experience life on campus.

Self-Guided Tour

Enjoy a self-guided tour of campus.

Virtual Info Session

Join us online and hear from students and staff about the Carolina community and application process.

• Accessibility
• Departments
• ConnectCarolina

Our main garden and Allen Education Center will be closed on Friday, March 29 for the University holiday. We'll be open normal hours on Saturday, March 30 (9 a.m. to 5 p.m.) and Sunday, March 31 (1 to 5 p.m.).

Coker Arboretum

Plan your visit.

Serene walking paths take you past wildflowers and trees in this 5-acre gem on the UNC campus. Rest on one of several open lawns, or take a seat on a shady bench. Coker Arboretum changes with the seasons: from spring blooms to summer greenery and fall color to winter trees, there’s always something to see.

Coker Arboretum is open dawn to dusk, 365 days a year.

Leashed pets are welcome (please pick up after them).

Directions & Parking

Coker Arboretum is located on the corner of Cameron Avenue and Raleigh Street in Chapel Hill. Click here for Google Maps directions . Metered parking is available nearby and around downtown Chapel Hill.

Coker Arboretum paths are mostly flat and either smooth grit or brick. They are wheelchair accessible.

Arbor Renovation in Progress

Support the arboretum, arboretum guide.

Take a tour of Coker Arboretum!

$9 ($8 NCBG Members) Led by an experienced guide, this tour provides a relaxed, informative introduction to this jewel in the heart of Chapel Hill. This walking tour will explore the 5-acres that make up the Arboretum, allowing time for observation and discussion. Each tour differs as the gardens change through the seasons.

10 Things to Do at UNC-Chapel Hill

Monday, November 26, 2018 9:00 AM by Visit Chapel Hill/Orange County

From holiday charm to spring flowers, fall foliage and everything in between, there’s never a bad time to take in the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Whether you’re a foodie, an urban adventurer or an avid sports fan, UNC-Chapel Hill has something unique to offer everyone. The breathtaking landscapes, the wealth of campus events and festivals and the rich culture will have you planning another visit while you’re still in town. Check out what the nation’s oldest public university has to offer:

1.   You can’t come to town without making a “Pit” stop at UNC’s best attractions. Spend some time walking around UNC-Chapel Hill’s beautiful campus. Head to the great central courtyard on campus called “The Pit” to see the popular gathering spot for students. It also serves as a stage for performances and speakers so if you’re lucky, you may get to see some unexpected entertainment during your visit!

2.   Located in the center of campus is the famous Old Well. Take a sip out of the Old Well , a campus tradition that promises a successful academic year for students that partake.  

3.   Just a short walk away from the Old Well is the marvelous Coker Arboretum. Laced with pathways and more than 400 species of ornamental flowers, trees and shrubs, the Coker Arboretum is a spot you won’t want to miss.

4.   Calling all basketball fans – the Carolina Basketball Museum is for you! As the first university basketball-only museum in the country, it houses hundreds of authentic artifacts and visuals that highlight the program’s long history. Guests can learn about the major players and coaches that have contributed to the program’s success, and did we mention it’s free? Definitely something you won’t want to miss out on.

5.   Spend time on Chapel Hill’s most vibrant thoroughfare: Franklin Street. Historic Franklin Street stretches over three miles and offers a wide range of activities and cultural experiences for all to enjoy! Fan favorite stops include: Top of the Hill , Carolina Coffee Shop , Al’s Burger Shack , Mediterranean Deli, Kipos Greek Taverna and Linda’s Bar and Grill.

6.   Stay, visit or dine at one of North Carolina’s most iconic destination hotels. The Carolina Inn, will blow you away. This historic hotel has earned the AAA Four Diamond Award since 1997 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

As a fundamental part of the university, The Carolina Inn sits in a central location on campus, is within walking distance of various shopping destinations, galleries, entertainment hubs and the Franklin Street district.

The impressive architecture, modeled after George Washington’s home at Mt. Vernon, hosts more than 185 guestrooms and suites, making it the perfect place to stay during your visit to Chapel Hill. Inside the hotel, you’ll find the Crossroads Chapel Hill restaurant, offering exquisite gourmet cuisine that will make you want to come back for more.

7.   Catch a live performance at Memorial Hall. UNC-Chapel Hill often has live shows perfect for visitors. Located at the heart of campus, Memorial Hall is home to various theater, dance and orchestra performances! Every year, the venue welcomes artists and performers from all over the world, shaping the performing arts culture on campus.

8.   If Memorial Hall’s schedule doesn’t align with yours, check out the Playmakers Repertory Company . This professional theatre company in residence at UNC-Chapel Hill will amaze you with their talent. What’s even more impressive is their involvement with students on campus!

New graduate students become a part of the acting company for the duration of their education, working closely with the pros. This helps provide graduate students with the skills necessary to pursue a career in theatre.

9.   Stroll through one of North Carolina’s most important cultural resources: The Ackland Art Museum . Offering various art collections for visitors to marvel over – from European master paintings to American contemporary photography – this museum has impressive variety. The program schedule offers music, films, gallery talks, tours and other activities for all ages.

10.  Visitors from all over have benefitted from Morehead Planetarium , and you can too! Discover why NASA sent its astronauts to Morehead Planetarium to learn about stars by blocking some time out for a visit. Since 1949, the planetarium has offered special courses, summer camps, afterschool programs, memberships and public viewings to help visitors understand science, technology and health on a deeper level.

The sense of community, attractions and culture at UNC-Chapel Hill will make your visit an experience you’ll remember for a lifetime. There’s something special in the air at UNC-Chapel Hill, and it’s time for you to see for yourself.

Author: Visit Chapel Hill/Orange County

The Chapel Hill/Orange County Visitors Bureau is the official destination marketing organization for Chapel Hill and Orange County, North Carolina. It is our pleasure to help make your visit to our communities one that you will  treasure and a destination you plan to visit time and time again. 

Search Blog

This website uses cookies to store information on your computer. Some are essential to make our site work; others help improve user experience. By using the site, you consent to the placement of these cookies. Read our Privacy Policy to learn more.

Black and Carolina Blue Tour site highlights Black History at UNC-Chapel Hill

  For more than 20 years, the Black and Blue Tour has introduced students and visitors to local histories of slavery, racism, memorialization and activism at UNC-Chapel Hill. Now, the University Libraries has released a revised Black and Carolina Blue Tour website , with updated and expanded entries for each tour stop.

The new site is part of the Library’s efforts to collect, preserve and share campus history.

“The Black and Carolina Blue Tour website is an essential supplement to other campus history sources,” said University Archivist Nicholas Graham. “It’s impossible to truly understand the history of UNC-Chapel Hill without learning about slavery, white supremacy and Black resistance.”

The original tour was created as a walking tour of key sites connected with Black History at Carolina and Chapel Hill. The Library developed a companion virtual exhibit, including tour excerpts and additional information.

Work to revise the tour website began in 2020 as part of efforts to evaluate and revise campus history materials offered by the University Libraries.

“So much of what we know about campus history is thanks to the primary source materials at Wilson Library and the work of the library and archives staff at Carolina,” said vice provost for University libraries and University librarian María R. Estorino. “The new tour site is one way we can make this history more approachable and accessible for our entire community.”

The updated content was developed by Graham and NC Research and Instructional Librarian Sarah Carrier, as well as graduate assistant Allison Ruvidich. The project received a University Libraries IDEA Action grant which provided funding to work with community stakeholders who reviewed the first draft of the revised site and provided feedback and suggestions.

“Students were really the inspiration for this work,” said Graham. “We’d heard from many students over the years who expressed frustration that information about campus history — especially Black history — was not more readily accessible.”

“The tour’s content, history and perspective are imperative for telling the story of UNC-Chapel Hill, but its online presence needed updating,” added Carrier. “The University Libraries had an opportunity to replace outdated online content with something fresh and current and to ensure the longevity of the content as an ongoing Library project.”

The revised website uses a new design and includes expanded entries with additional information, references and suggestions for further reading.

“We provided vetted citations for further research so that the online tour can be a source of quality information, explained Carrier. “We wanted to explicitly connect sources from the tour back to primary sources and model ways of doing research of this nature.”

Even with all of this new information, the website is not intended to replace the walking tour but to serve as a basic introduction, reference source and starting place for research and discovery.

“Our goal is to not only inform and answer questions about Carolina’s history but also to inspire new work and new thinking about what engaging with our institution’s history can look like,” said Carrier.

Story by Jacob Thompson

Search & Find

• E-Research by Discipline
• More Search & Find

Places & Spaces

• Places to Study
• Book a Study Room
• Printers, Scanners, & Computers
• More Places & Spaces
• Borrowing & Circulation
• Request a Title for Purchase
• Schedule Instruction Session
• More Services

Support & Guides

• Course Reserves
• Research Guides
• Citing & Writing
• More Support & Guides
• Strategic Framework
• Diversity Statement
• Staff Directory
• Job Opportunities
• Give to the Libraries
• News & Exhibits
• Reckoning Initiative
• More About Us
• Student Newsletter

• Search This Site
• Privacy Policy
• Accessibility
• Give Us Your Feedback
• 208 Raleigh Street CB #3916
• Chapel Hill, NC 27515-8890
• 919-962-1053

Your Tour leader: Sally

About our tour.

A tour of the beautiful town of Chapel Hill, NC - learn about the history of the town and its relationship to the oldest state university in the USA. See the distinctive murals that decorate this slice of heaven. Get tips on where to dine, and hints on some of the hidden gems. Your guide is a native of Chapel Hill, and has lived here most of her life.

See our tour schedule

What a lovely way to spend 90 minutes. Sally is so friendly and knowlegeable. I would recommend this tour to everyone! - Jennifer

I especially enjoyed Sally's coverage of the history of Chapel Hill, including the civil rights movement. Showing us Michael Brown's Murals was a nice addition - Johnny

Free Walking Tours Chapel Hill. All rights reserved.

10 Things To Do In Chapel Hill: Complete Guide To A Historic & Academic Haven

C hapel Hill is only one of North Carolina’s many beautiful towns . And it has so much to offer. The main attraction for most is the University of North Carolina (Go Tar Heels!). And no wonder why! World-renowned for its sports programs, both men and women dominate everything from basketball to swimming to field hockey and soccer. Aside from sports, the university also offers historic buildings, gardens, and great photo ops near the Bell Tower and the Old Well.

But whether you’re a Tar Heel fan or not, Chapel Hill is an ideal travel destination for people of all ages. Tourists can explore Franklin Street and nearby Carrboro, dine at delicious restaurants, and explore parks and gardens.

UPDATE: 2023/05/16 14:42 EST BY NOAH STAATS

There Are Five More Things To Do In Chapel Hill, North Carolina!

This guide has been refreshed with five new places in Chapel Hill, as well as tips to make the vacation perfect. Whether people want to explore a botanical garden, eat lunch with kittens, or even tour the University of North Carolina campus, everything is possible in Chapel Hill!

Things To Do

There are so many things tourists can do in North Carolina , and one of them is to visit Chapel Hill. Chapel Hill offers the creativity and excitement of a college town mixed with southern culture and beautiful landscapes. Here is the ultimate travel guide to Chapel Hill, North Carolina.

North Carolina Botanical Garden

One of the first things to experience in Chapel Hill, NC, is the North Carolina Botanical Garden. This is a stunning garden operated by the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and offers visitors 700 acres of plants and wildlife to explore.

One of the standout features of this botanical garden is that it only charges a recommended ticket price of $5 in the form of a donation to the upkeep of the grounds. Members of the North Carolina Botanical Garden can enter for free, so that's another idea if someone wants to come here many times.

Coker Arboretum

Another thing to do while in Chapel Hill is check out Coker Arboretum, a serene arboretum within the North Carolina Botanical Garden on the campus of the University of North Carolina. Like many destinations in the Chapel Hill area, the University of North Carolina takes care of this property.

Notably, the park showcases a wide variety of plantings, including flowering trees and shrubs, as well as special perennial vegetation. If someone is looking to spend the morning or afternoon walking through a beautiful nature scene, this is what they should do.

The Forest Theatre

For tourists interested in architecture, heading over to The Forest Theatre in Chapel Hill is worth it. Here, people can experience a historical campus amphitheater staging theatrical & musical shows and other events throughout the year. This amphitheater is a favorite site for theatrical and musical performances and is currently booking weddings.

Cat Tales Cat Cafe

The next event to consider in Chapel Hill is Cat Tales Cat Cafe , where people can eat alongside adoptable kittens and enjoy a couple of hours with these precious animals. The idea behind the cat café was to give people a more intimate opportunity to engage with kittens, ultimately leading to them being adopted.

Of course, guests do not have to adopt to eat here, but that is a great souvenir to remember the vacation!

Kidzu Children's Museum

For families traveling to Chapel Hill, North Carolina, visiting the Kidzu Children's Museum is a perfect way to spend the afternoon. Here, children can experience a private, 501 non-profit children's museum serving ages infant through tween and learn about STEM, the arts, child health, and emerging literacy.

Although this isn't quite an amusement park, it is a nice way to learn something and spend time with the younger members of the group in a safe environment.

Explore The University Of North Carolina

There are so many great places to hike in North Carolina . But for tourists looking for more of a stroll, UNC is perfect. Tourists can spend hours walking around the beautiful greenery.

Even for non-students, there's still an opportunity to learn. Anyone wishing to learn more about the campus can stop by the UNC Visitors Center for a self-guided university tour. And any trip to UNC should include a game or a trip to the North Carolina basketball museum .

Morehead Planetarium

The Morehead Planetarium is located on the University of North Carolina campus. It has impressively trained astronauts for NASA and offers a unique behind-the-scenes look at current science research through family-friendly activities.

The dome seats 240 people under a 68-foot-high ceiling. Catch a weekend star show at the Morehead Planetarium.

• Check the calendar first; tickets should be bought in advance.

While the Morehead Planetarium is entertaining for all ages, it also has many programs for kids!

• Address: 250 E Franklin Street, Chapel Hill
• Hours: Friday, 2:30 PM to 6 PM; Saturday, 10 AM to 6 PM; Sunday, 1 PM to 6 PM.

Related: 10 Fun Things To Do In Durham, North Carolina

The Old Well

Located on the University of North Carolina campus, the Old Well is legendary among students. Rumor has it that if students drink from the well, they'll receive good grades in classes.

Standing proud at the entry to McCorkle Place (a grassy quad), the Old Well’s classic columnar style is definitely worth a look. It’s been a focal point of the school since it opened in 1793.

• Address: E. Cameron Avenue, Chapel Hill
• Hours: Daily, 24 hours

Carolina North Forest

The Carolina North Forest is one of many hiking trails that show off North Carolina’s beauty . Exploring 750 acres of woodlands offers a natural oasis for students, locals, and visitors to relax and recharge.

From the Crow Branch Overlook Loop to the Pumpkin Loop, there are 14 popular trails in the Carolina North Forest . Tourists can pick one best suited for their afternoon.

Stroll Franklin Street

Franklin Street is Chapel Hill’s main street. Start on the east end and take time wandering past a mix of new spots and old classics. The Carolina Coffee Shop and Sutton’s Drug Store have been on Franklin Street for over a century. It’s a great spot to stop for a bite to eat after an afternoon of shopping.

Best Time To Go To Chapel Hill

North Carolina offers four very distinct seasons. All beautiful in their own way, spring and fall are the best times of year to visit Chapel Hill.

Spring (March through May)

Springs offers lots to do, including lots of local festivals and events. Temperatures range from highs in the mid-80s to lows in the mid-50s.

Related: This North Carolina State Park Beach Is Home To A Miniature Desert

Summer (June through August)

Summers are very hot and humid, with July being the hottest month. If tourists can stand the intense heat, summer offers a relaxed trip as most college students have left the area for summer break.

Fall (September through November)

Fall days are warm, with highs ranging from 88 degrees, but days (and especially the nights) get colder as the season progresses. Students arrive back in the area, and fall sports commence. This is definitely an exciting time of year in Chapel Hill.

Winter (December through February)

The weather is too cold in winter for warm-weather travelers. Temperatures often drop below 0 degrees, and it rains or snows a fair amount. In fact, the nearby mountains see so much snow that North Carolina is able to claim some of the best ski resorts in the south .

Best Ways To Get Around Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill is a great walking city. Check out these free walking tours !

Chapel Hill Transit offers free bus service to Chapel Hill, Carrboro, and the University of North Carolina.

Chapel Hill is an excellent city for cyclists. There’s an extensive system of greenways, and the city is currently working on completing more than 28 miles of trails to allow cyclists to access nearly every part of town.

Check out Chapel Hill's bicycles and greenways map .

It’s easy to drive around Chapel Hill. The city offers more than 850 parking spots downtown. There’s even a parking map to help tourists find them easily. But that being said, parking can be difficult. Uber and Lyft are also available, and Zipcars are available on the UNC campus.

Tourists visiting on the weekend can park at the UNC campus for free.

Where To Eat In Chapel Hill

From cheap eats to fine dining, Chapel Hill offers a variety to tourists.

Merrit’s Store & Grill

Merrit’s Store & Grill started as a lunch counter at the back of a filling station. Its claim to fame is a BLT named “The Love Sandwich.”

• Address: 1009 South Columbia Street, Chapel Hill
• Hours: Monday through Friday, 7 AM to 4 PM; Saturday, 8 AM to 5 PM.

Related: North Carolina Is Home To The Tallest Waterfall On The East Coast

Kipos Greek Taverna

Restauranter Giorgios Bakatsias own Kipos Greek Taverna , and the menu is run by his sister, Olga.

Offering a flavor of Bakatsias, this is a must-visit lunch spot. Try the spanakopita!

• Address: 1800 East Franklin Street, #16, Chapel Hill
• Hours: Tuesday through Sunday, 11 AM to 2: 30 PM and 5 PM to 9 PM (only late on Saturday until 10 PM; Monday, Closed.

Bluebird is a French Bistro offering a little piece of Paris in Chapel Hill.

• Address: 601 Meadowmont Village Circle, Chapel Hill
• Hours: Tuesday through Saturday, 5 PM to 9 PM; Sunday, 10 AM to 2 PM.

Where To Stay In Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill offers ample accommodations to suit any budget.

Whether visitors are looking for a high-end hotel, a comfortable room in an affordable spot, or a budget deal, there’s something for everyone.

The Carolina Inn

Centrally located in Chapel Hill and only five minutes from the University of North Carolina, the Carolina Inn is a beautiful and historic hotel.

• Address: 211 Pittsboro Street, Chapel Hill
• Amenities: Complimentary wired Internet access; 24-hour business center; express check-in; fitness center; bar/lounge; valet parking; restaurant; room service.

Related: 10 Things To Do In Raleigh, North Carolina

Aloft Chapel Hill

The Aloft Chapel Hill Hotel offers a one-of-a-kind stay!

• Address: 1001 South Hamilton Road, Chapel Hill
• Amenities: indoor pool; restaurant; free Wi-Fi; fitness center; bar/lounge; coffee shop; pet-friendly; ergonomic workspaces.

Hampton Inn & Suites Chapel Hill/Durham

Located on the west side of Interstate 40 and Highway 54, The Hampton Inn & Suites Chapel Hill/Durham is an excellent option for travelers on a budget.

• Address : 6121 Farrington Road, Chapel Hill
• Amenities: Outdoor pool; room service; coffee machine; fitness center; free Wi-Fi; flat-screen TV.

Popular Neighborhoods In Chapel Hill

The main strip is Franklin Street, but the entire downtown is quaint and charming. Eat at one of Chapel Hill’s many fine eateries, window-shop at quirky stores, and stop to people-watch from a cozy coffee shop.

Downtown gives visitors a peek at students' extracurricular life!

Related: Craggy Gardens Is A Beautiful Stop Along North Carolina's Blue Ridge Parkway

University of North Carolina

The 729-acre university campus is like its own neighborhood. Much of the city revolves around the school. From sports games to college culture and just students milling about, Chapel Hill's UNC is a place worth visiting. The park-like campus is the beating heart of the city.

Tourists can explore historic libraries, hear the toll of the Bell Tower, and sip water from the Old Well.

Nearby Carrboro

Carrboro is so close that it feels like an extension of Chapel Hill. It’s famous for its farmer’s market, which has been in business for over 40 years.

Carrboro is also loaded with cafés and restaurants. Just about a mile from Franklin Street, Carrboro is a great spot to dine with friends.

Tips For Staying In Chapel Hill

For anyone coming to Chapel Hill in North Carolina, there are some things to be aware of. First, the town is incredibly walkable, often surprising guests who are used to relying heavily on vehicles. According to walkscore.com, Chapel Hill scores 70/100 for walkability, so most errands can be accomplished on foot.

It's also worth noting that this is a college town, meaning that local bars, restaurants, and attractions can become rowdy on weekends and holidays. Of course, that's not to say it will be unsafe, but it is a good idea to keep an eye out for anything suspicious and try to avoid engaging with intoxicated college students.

In contrast, for those who want to be social, it's recommended to head to Franklin Street for all things entertainment and socializing. It is filled with numerous coffee shops, restaurants, museums, music stores, and bars: all things to liven up a vacation.

How To Spend The Perfect Day In Chapel Hill

Start the day with a tour of the famous UNC campus! The quad closest to Franklin Street is McCorkle Place, and it’s a great place to begin. Learn about the history of the school while walking around the picturesque grounds. Pick up a copy of The Daily Tar Heel (it dates back to 1893!) and admire the buildings (some date back to the 1700s).

Be sure to check out Davie Poplar, a beautiful tree with a bench underneath. Rumor has it that sitting on the bench beside someone special means they may marry someday!

See the Old Well and the Bell Tower, and the Beaux-Arts Wilson Library. Tourists really could spend the entire day on campus, but there’s more to see in Chapel Hill.

After exploring the university, head to Franklin Street. Grab lunch and explore the unique shops. Soak in the charming downtown before heading to the Morehead Planetarium for an evening with the stars.

After the show, head to Carrboro for dinner and linger for an after-meal coffee.

Q: Is Chapel Hill NC worth visiting?

Chapel Hill is definitely one of the beautiful towns in North Carolina worth visiting. From all the wonderful attractions at the University of North Carolina to delicious eateries, parks, and gardens, Chapel Hill is a charming college city with many things to do.

Q: What is Chapel Hill known for?

Chapel Hill is known first and foremost for the University of North Carolina and their world-renowned sports program. It regularly ranks at the top of the list for best college town and top cities to live in the U.S.

Q: Does it snow in Chapel Hill NC?

Chapel Hill sees an average of 8 inches of snow per year. Sometimes that snow comes in multiple storms, sometimes in just one or two. Some winters see no snow at all.

Nearby neighbors, however, do see a lot of snow. In fact, some of the best ski resorts in the south are in North Carolina .

We keep you informed.

• Student Life
• Administration
• Chapel Hill
• Orange County
• North Carolina
• General Assembly
• Women's Basketball
• Men's Basketball
• Field Hockey
• Women's Soccer
• Men's Soccer
• Women's Lacrosse
• Men's Lacrosse
• Music Edition 2024
• Arts & Entertainment
• Food & Drink
• Reviews & Trends
• Meet the editors
• Board of Directors
• Corrections
• Policies & Bylaws
• Celebrations
• Classifieds
• Print Archive
• 1893 Brand Studio

UNC students and local community welcome spring to Chapel Hill

Last Wednesday, when temperatures peaked at 73 degrees Fahrenheit , friend groups flocked outside, setting up picnic blankets across the lawn in front of Wilson Library and lingering for hours. 

Some read books , some played ultimate frisbee and others simply basked in the first full day of spring, which came after a few days of cloudy skies and brisk chills. 

The vernal equinox , which astronomers consider to be the first official day of spring in the Northern Hemisphere, occurs every year between March 19 and March 21. During the equinox, the Earth’s axis lines up so that most places receive more balanced amounts of sunlight and darkness.

In Chapel Hill, student and community organizations are celebrating the season change with a variety of cultural and religious events throughout the next few weeks.

On Wednesday evening, Erin Harker , a self-proclaimed witch and the founder of Durham-based store for modern magick practitioners, the  Magick Makers LLC,   hosted an equinox-themed social at the Graduate Chapel Hill.  

At the event, Harker gave tarot readings related to the concept of renewal that her spiritual practice associates with spring.

Many pagans attach great spiritual significance to the spring equinox because of its connection to the natural world, Harker said . 

She also said that the equinox coincides with the astrological new year , which occurred when the sun entered the sign of Aries on March 19. 

“The sun is out longer, and it has this kind of transformational quality to it as well,” she said . “Where we just have an opportunity to look at where we want to grow and what direction we want to take for the year, and celebrate the Earth waking up again after a long winter.”

Another festival based on the spring equinox is Nowruz , also known as the Persian New Year. The holiday is the first day of Farvardin , the first month of the Iranian solar calendar . 

For UNC junior Maeve Kimia , co-president of the UNC Persian Cultural Society , Nowruz is a time to gather with family and perform rituals related to the new year. The holiday is celebrated by a variety of religious and ethnic groups.

“Before the new year, everyone does this massive cleaning,” Kimia said. “To prepare, so you don’t bring your dirt from the past year into this new one.” 

Kimia said that one of the primary traditions associated with Nowruz is the Haft-sin , in which participants arrange seven items, including apples, garlic, vinegar and sumac on a table. 

Each component symbolizes different virtues the person wants to manifest into their life in the coming year. 

UNC Holi Moli will also be welcoming the beginning of spring with their annual student-run festival of colors on April 6.

Based on the Indian harvest festival of the same name, UNC’s Holi celebration aims to spread awareness about South Asian cultures while encouraging the wider UNC community to enjoy the festivities.

At the event, students throw powdered colors, traditionally  known as gulal , at each other and watch performances by South Asian dance teams.    Proceeds from this year's event will go to the Orange County Rape Crisis Center as well as The Desai Foundation , a women’s health organization working to improve menstrual equity in India.

According to Holi Moli co-president and UNC senior Mansi Gupta , the appeal of the event extends beyond its Hindu religious origins , which honor the triumph of good over evil and the arrival of spring.

“A lot of students support this event, because the way that it’s presented is, 'here’s all these students throwing color in the air; laughing; smiling; music,' and I don’t think there’s anything like this on campus,” Gupta said.

For some of the quad-sitting UNC students on the first day of spring, the season in Chapel Hill is a chance to expand their social horizons. 

UNC sophomore Anna Poydock said that last spring , they met many new people by hanging out on the quad.  

To get the day's news and headlines in your inbox each morning, sign up for our email newsletters.

“I definitely sat with a lot people that I didn’t know, or I’d sit with friends of friends,” Poydock said. “During the spring, I do tend to exit my social bubble.” 

UNC junior Sriya Chalasani said warmer weather  in Chapel Hill feels different than other points in the school year. 

“I enjoy walking to classes in the sun, and I’m less sad,” Chalasani said . “There’s just more people out and about and it's a lot more sociable.”

@phoebemartel1

@dthlifestyle | [email protected]

• 'All my own': Studio art seniors display year of work in exhibitions
• Franklin Street Rubbish the Raccoon sculpture shares Earth Day message
• 'Turn it up and crank the reverb': Carrboro celebrates first Dexter Romweber Day
• Review: Faye Webster unveils 'genre-free agenda' on new album
• Review: Denis Villeneuve cultivates desert power in 'Dune: Part Two'
• Students share their plans to get away from spring semester stress over break

JOIN THE START THE PRESSES SOCIETY.

Support independent, student-led journalism by becoming a member of the Start the Presses Society! Members enjoy exclusive DTH benefits.

Biden and Harris team up for health care event in North Carolina

President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris will promote their health care agenda on Tuesday in North Carolina, a battleground state that Democrats hope to flip in their favor after falling short to Donald Trump in the last two presidential elections.

Fourteen years after President Barack Obama signed the Affordable Care Act into law, the White House still sees health care as a winning issue during a campaign where Biden has sometimes found himself on the defensive when it comes to immigration or the economy . Republicans have opposed Biden's signature initiatives to lower medical costs, and they've seized opportunities to restrict abortion rights after the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade.

“That’s the split screen on health care you will see on clear display," said Anita Dunn, a senior adviser. "President Biden, Vice President Harris and Democrats want to expand access, make health care more affordable for everyone and defend reproductive freedom. Republicans want to gut health care, raise prices and rip away those basic reproductive freedoms even more than they have already been endangered.”

North Carolina is Biden's final stop in his tour of battleground states after his State of the Union earlier this month, which jumpstarted a frenzied travel schedule as the Democratic president makes his case for a second term in a likely rematch with Trump, the presumptive Republican nominee.

The state is also a health care success story for the president. The American Rescue Plan, a pandemic recovery measure signed by Biden, included financial incentives for states to expand Medicaid coverage for low-income residents. North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper, a Democrat, was able to use the money, which amounted to $1.8 billion, to persuade Republican lawmakers to go along with his plan. More than 600,000 residents are expected to qualify.

The visit from Biden and Harris comes on the same day that the U.S. Supreme Court hears oral arguments in a case about access to mifepristone , a widely used abortion pill. An eventual ruling could further restrict access to abortion.

The White House has tried to make mifepristone more available as one of its few opportunities to protect women’s ability to end their pregnancies.

“We will continue to fight back against unprecedented attacks on women's freedom to make their own health decisions,” press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said.

After speaking about health care in Raleigh, Biden and Harris will also attend a campaign fundraiser in the city. They’ve built a significant cash advantage over Trump, with $155 million cash on hand at the end of the first quarter of the year. Trump had $37 million .

Biden’s approval ratings on health care are among his highest on a range of issues, but he remains underwater there too. According to a February poll from The Associated Press and the NORC Center for Public Affairs Research, 42% of U.S. adults approve of Biden’s handling of health care while 55% disapprove.

KFF, a health policy research firm, conducted its own poll in November and found that 59% of U.S. adults trust the Democratic Party to do a better job addressing health care affordability issues. Only 39% said the same about Republicans. There was a similar divide in trust when it came to access to mental health care, prescription drug costs and the future of the Affordable Care Act, Medicare and Medicaid.

“I’m a person who believes that good policy is also good politics, that when people feel like policies are in place that are helping and benefiting them in their communities, then you now have loyal supporters,” said Maryland Gov. Wes Moore, a Democrat.

Moore said he sympathized with voters who did not believe that Biden had made a significant impact on issues like healthcare, but he stressed the administration’s record on policies like lowering prescription drug prices and capping the cost of insulin.

“Nothing happens by accident, it’s because you have leaders who are prioritizing it," he said.

Trump has never detailed his health care proposals despite campaigning since 2016 on a promise to end the Affordable Care Act and replace it with something else.

"The cost of Obamacare is out of control, plus, it’s not good Healthcare. I’m seriously looking at alternatives,” he wrote in a post on his Truth Social site in November.

However, healthcare has not been a prominent issue in his 2024 campaign as Trump instead focuses on immigration, inflation and the wars in Europe and the Middle East.

Polls show a tight race between Biden and Trump this year, and Democrats hope to create another potential path to victory in North Carolina.

Although Democrats have failed to win a U.S. Senate seat or a presidential race there since 2008, Trump beat Biden in North Carolina by just 1.3 percentage points in 2020. The White House has repeatedly highlighted federal injections of funds for transportation, rural broadband and other initiatives while dispatching top administration officials to the state.

Democrats also want to exploit what they view as weaknesses among Republican candidates for statewide offices. For example, the party's nominees for governor and state schools superintendent, Mark Robinson and Michele Morrow, have a history of inflammatory comments.

“We’re seeing a Republican slate at the statewide level that is filled with MAGA extremists that ultimately is going to hurt the Republicans’ chances of winning the state again,” state Sen. Jay Chaudhuri of Raleigh, the chamber’s Democratic whip, said Monday in an interview. “As we get closer to November, I think independents that are critical in winning the state will be able to see how extreme the Republican ticket is from top to bottom.”

Democrats hope that unaffiliated voters, the largest category in the state, will cool to Trump in part based on worries that his election along with Robinson and Morrow could make businesses question relocating to a state that is currently riding an economic boom.

“It’s clear that Republicans have nominated a slew of candidates that want to throw us right back into the culture wars,” said Cooper, the Democratic governor, last week. “And Donald Trump is right on top of that, driving the train on this.”

Creek Week Roundup

Environment, Health and Safety (EHS) recently partnered with Sustainable Carolina for the Orange County Creek Week, March 16- 23, 2024. Creek Week is an annual celebration that engages local communities in activities aimed at preserving and appreciating streams, lakes and rivers.  

One of the highlights of Creek Week is the litter cleanup challenge, where volunteers come together to remove trash from water bodies. Additionally, there is a community science BioBlitz, invasive plant removal efforts and green infrastructure tours to educate participants on sustainable practices.  

On UNC-Chapel Hill’s campus, EHS and Sustainable Carolina teamed up with Exercise and Sports Science (EXSS) Lifetime Fitness walking classes for two days of creek walks, offering students an opportunity to explore campus waterways. These classes emphasize the importance of lifelong health and physical activity by engaging in activities like creek walks and correspond with Creek Week core values, which encourage community members to take stewardship of local waterways for the benefit of future generations.  

“This is the third year we’ve worked with EXSS,” says Sustainable Carolina Communications and Engagement Specialist Abigail Brewer. “This year, we were thrilled to have the expertise of the stormwater program with us for all of the guided walks — Stephanie Grubbs brought great ideas to the table throughout the entire planning process.”

EHS also joined forces with the Institute for the Environment for a cleanup along the Meeting of the Waters Creek in the Dean Smith outfall off of Skipper Bowles Drive.  

“All water on campus eventually flows to Jordan Lake, a reservoir serving hundreds of thousands of Triangle residents,” says EHS Stormwater Specialist Stephanie Grubbs. “Our cleanup demonstrates a collective responsibility by the University to protect water quality.”

Furthering their commitment to environmental stewardship, members of the Epsilon Eta Environmental Honors Society conducted their own campus cleanup and invasive species removal .

These collaborations between University departments and organizations, comprised of faculty, staff and students, showcase the University’s dedication to environmental conservation and sustainability for future Carolina generations.

Women's History Month

Centuries of difference-makers.

More than half of the Tar Heels enrolled at UNC-Chapel Hill today are women, but that hasn’t always been the case. It wasn’t until 1877 that women first began enrolling at the University for summer sessions. Another two decades passed before Sallie Walker Stockard became the first woman to receive a degree from Carolina. Click on a photo to learn more about a historic Tar Heel, and keep scrolling to take a closer look at how women’s history has progressed at Carolina.

Tar Heel trailblazers

Sallie walker stockard.

In 1897, the board of trustees opened the University’s doors to women for postgraduate studies. Mary McRae, Lulie Watkins, Cecye Roanne Dodd, Dixie Lee Bryant and Sallie Walker Stockard were the first to be accepted for postgraduate studies. Stockard was the only one of the group to graduate, and she became the first woman to earn a degree from Carolina when she graduated in 1898, though she was excluded from all ceremonies, including the actual presentation of degrees and class pictures.

Susan Grey Akers

As more and more women began enrolling at Carolina in the early 1900s, leadership roles slowly began to be filled by people who reflected the student body. The University hired its first female faculty member in 1927 when Sallie Marks was named an assistant professor of education.

In 1942, Susan Grey Akers became the first woman dean at UNC-Chapel Hill when she was appointed to serve as the dean of the School of Information and Library Science, then called the School of Library Science.

Gwendolyn Harrison

When Gwendolyn Harrison Smith applied and was accepted to Carolina in 1951 as a doctoral student in Spanish, she had already earned a bachelor’s degree in history from Spelman College, a master’s degree in Spanish from the University of California and was a professor at Johnson C. Smith University in Charlotte.

University officials did not realize she was Black when she applied and told her she would not be allowed to live in the dorm or register for classes at Carolina. After Smith filed a federal lawsuit, Harrison became the first Black woman to study at Carolina.

Women's history at Carolina

Through the years.

• Display Previous Slide of Statistics Carousel
• Display Next Slide of Statistics Carousel
• 1877 The first women enrolled at the University for a summer session.
• 1896 University President Edwin Alderman called for women's admission in his inaugural address.
• 1898 Sallie Walker Stockard became the first woman to receive a degree from the University.
• 1906 Female students formed the University Women's Club to promote their interests on campus.
• 1915 Cora Zeta Corpening became the first woman student in the medical school. Margaret Berry became the first woman to graduate from the law school.
• 1924 Women began to earn doctorates from Carolina.
• 1942 Susan Grey Akers became dean of the UNC School of Library Science, making her the first woman on campus to hold that title.
• 1972 With the passage of Title IX, Tar Heel women's sports — basketball, field hockey, volleyball, fencing, swimming and diving, tennis and gymnastics — went varsity.
• 1972 Female students numbered nearly 6,500 — about 30% of the student body.
• 1979 Karen Stevenson became the first Carolina woman — and the first black woman in the country — to receive a Rhodes Scholarship.
• 1985 The student body elected the first woman, Patricia Wallace, as its president.
• 1998 Anne Cates '53 became the first woman to chair Carolina's Board of Trustees.
• 2013 Carol L. Folt becomes Carolina's first female chancellor.

A legacy continued

Generations of women at UNC-Chapel Hill have made way for current students, faculty, staff and alumnae to make a mark on the world. Today, women continue to lead and succeed at Carolina. In May, we will welcome back our Tar Heel astronaut, Zena Cardman, to speak at Spring Commencement . Current students and alumnae make a difference with their research, and Tar Heels excel in everything from the arts and IT to athletics . Click on a story below to see how Tar Heels continue the tradition of excellence set by generations of women before them.

Decades later, memories of Flower Ladies live on

Social media is connecting a new generation to the African American florists once central to Franklin Street.

Carolina Women’s Center resets

With a new director, location and mission, the organization wants to support more Tar Heel women.

Katherine Turk writes first history of NOW

The associate professor of history documented the rise of the National Organization for Women in her 2023 book.

Business professor profiles 25 inspiring female leaders

Jan-Benedict Steenkamp’s new book shows how these “gritty women” bent the arc of history.

Stephanie Headley makes her mark in the beauty biz

In crafting Procter & Gamble’s Olay brand, the MBA graduate ensures the industry is more representative.

#GDTBATH: Ally Sentnor

The National Women’s Soccer League’s first overall draft pick studies remotely while training with the Utah Royals.

Eve Carson Scholarship turns 15

Fulfilling her plan to support student leaders honors the legacy of the slain student body president.

Dental hygienist inspired student’s career choice

Mariana Alcaraz, a child of Mexican immigrants, wants to work with Hispanic patients.

Bullying researcher makes schools safer

Dorothy Espelage of the School of Education pioneered school-based bullying studies that have led to prevention programs.

Explore more

• Women's History Walking Tour
• Carolina women's center
• The Well — news from Carolina

Share on Mastodon

Northwestern

#13 North Carolina

Wildcats Set to take on UNC Tar Heels in Chapel Hill

3/24/2024 11:37:00 AM | Women's Lacrosse

The Wildcats hold a closely contested 12-13 record against the Tar Heels, setting the stage for another intense battle. In their last encounter on March 19th, 2023, Northwestern emerged victorious with a 13-9 win at home in Evanston, IL. This victory was particularly significant as it snapped UNC's impressive 47-game regular-season winning streak.

In that game, Izzy Scane showcased her offensive power with 4 goals and 1 assist, while Erin Coykendall contributed 2 goals. Defensively, Kendall Halpern's four caused turnovers and Molly Laliberty's 10 saves were instrumental in securing the win for the Wildcats.  

THE NASTIEST BEHIND THE BACK GOAL YOU WILL EVER SEE. A ROUND OF APPLAUSE FOR ERIN COYKENDALL?? @NU_Sports | @NCAALAX pic.twitter.com/C6bFAtnHEq — Northwestern Lax (@NULax) March 19, 2023

On the other hand, the Wildcats are seeking redemption after falling short against Penn State. Led by Izzy Scane's impressive performance with 5 goals, Northwestern displayed resilience throughout the game. Madison Taylor , Erin Coykendall , and Dylan Amonte also made notable contributions, emphasizing the team's depth and talent.

Madison Taylor is on the verge of a significant milestone, being just 10 goals away from reaching 100 career goals as a sophomore. Northwestern boasts impressive national rankings, leading in draw controls per game and showcasing a potent offense ranked 4th in scoring.

Players like Erin Coykendall and Madison Taylor have been pivotal in facilitating the team's success, with Coykendall ranking 7th in the nation in assists and Taylor leading in free position goals per game.

Game Details:

Monday's matchup is scheduled for a 4:30 PM ET start at Dorrance Field in Chapel Hill, NC. Fans can catch the action live on ESPNU, with Jay Alter and Sheehan Stanwick Burch providing commentary alongside field analyst Dana Boyle.