Did you know that you can walk among the stars in Winston-Salem? While Los Angeles may be the City of Stars, the City of Arts and Innovation has its very own star-studded Walk of Fame.

The Winston-Salem Arts, Culture, and Entertainment Memorial Walk of Fame honors deceased citizens who made significant contributions to the arts and entertainment industries during their lifetimes. In late July, nine new bronze stars were added to the Walk of Fame outside Benton Convention Center.

One star recognizes Julian Carr Burroughs, a local public radio figure and former Wake Forest University professor. Burroughs secured WFDD’s broadcast license and North Carolina’s first NPR charter membership.

Another new star is in memory of Big Ron Hunter, also known as the “World’s Happiest Bluesman.” Recognized for his joyful spirit, Hunter created a unique style of blues that blended the genre with country and singer-songwriter traditions.

The 2025 inductees are:

William Grady Benton (art/philanthropy)
Julian Carr Burroughs (radio)
James Thackery Diggs (art)
Margaret Snodgrass Mueller (music)

The 2026 inductees are:

Flonnie T. Anderson (theatre)
Big Ron Hunter (music)
Carlotta Samuels (music)
Harold C. Tedford (theatre)
Robert Ward (music)

Since it began in 2016, the Memorial Walk of Fame has recognized 43 individuals. This includes Winston-Salem natives like radio host Alvin “A.C.” Stowe and people who made the Twin City their home like author Maya Angelou. Some honorees took their talents across the globe, like Broadway light designer Howell Binkley, while others made their mark here, like Piedmont Opera founder Norman Johnson. Learn about all the honorees.

Nominations are typically accepted at the beginning of each year. Inductees are then recommended by a committee of citizens before being passed on to the mayor and city council for approval.

To qualify for the Walk of Fame, these people must have lived in Winston-Salem for at least five years, exhibited excellence in one or more of the following areas: music, dance, theater, writing, visual arts, motion pictures, television, or radio, and made contributions not only to their field but to the community.