Ever wonder how we decide which events to bring to Kinston each year? It’s not a guessing game—it’s you.
Every year, we poll Kinston residents to better understand who lives here and what we can improve. The results directly shape the events, activities and amenities you see around the neighborhood. In fact, everything you’ve enjoyed in 2026 — from Donuts with Neighbors to pop-up teen activities to the new look of the Kinston Connection — exists because residents like you spoke up.
Now it’s time to help shape 2027, and we need your voice more than ever.
Real Answers, Real Events
Here’s a look at what last year’s survey told us, and how we put those answers into action:
60% of residents wanted an event to meet new people.
Enter Donuts with Neighbors—a bi-monthly meetup where people from all over the neighborhood come together to socialize (and eat donuts, of course).
About 40% of residents wanted a bootcamp or yoga class
Great news: We added SPENGA to our lineup of summer events in July, August and September.
72% of residents said Saturday afternoons work best for large community events.
That’s exactly why we plan Hubbub at the Hub, an all-ages afternoon celebration of Kinston and its residents, on that day and time.
76% of residents said they’re most interested in events with food or food trucks, 71% said music.
July delivered in a big way—potluck at the Block Party; six music decades in four weeks at Sounds of Centerra; pastries at Donuts with Neighbors; classic rock anthems at Music Bingo; and Pints, Peaks & Playlists every Friday at the Hub Cafe.
How can we improve the community newsletter, Kinston Connection?
Neighbors suggested shorter posts and a monthly snapshots of all events. That’s why the Kinston Connection has a new layout and near the beginning of each month we show you every activity, meeting, club gathering and cafe special planned for the coming weeks.
49% of residents said they’d like to receive community news by SMS text.
That’s why we added this communication tool in 2026. If you haven’t signed up yet, you can do so here.
We also learned a lot about who you are and what you love: most households are 1-2 people, 1 in 4 residents moved here from out of state, and favorite neighborhood entertainment includes comedy movies and 80s & 90s music. Every detail helps us plan better.
Here's the Thing — We Need Your Help
Last year, only about 1 in 3 residents completed the survey. Many who opened it never made it past the very first page. That first page just covers basic demographics (like household size and age), but it’s the foundation that helps us understand who’s answering and make sure every group in Kinston is represented.
When the survey stops there, we lose the good stuff—the questions about what events you want, when you’re free, and what would make Kinston feel more like home. Without that information, we’re left planning 2027 with an incomplete picture.
The full survey takes just 10 minutes, and every question after that first page is where the real magic happens. It’s how we know to bring back the food trucks, keep Saturday afternoons open for events or try something brand new.
Take the 2026 Community Life Survey
If you want a say in what Kinston looks like in 2027 — more live music, different types of events for different lifestyles, new ways to meet your neighbors — this is your chance. Grab a few minutes, start to finish, and help us build a neighborhood that reflects everyone who calls it home.
Your answers shaped 2026. Let’s make 2027 even better.