It’s a big weekend in C-town and we’ve got the Scoop on everything from cacti- crafting, comic con, kids kayaking and sailing, champions cup and picnics in the park.
Kid’s “Crafternoon” at the Gardens – Cacti
UNC Charlotte Botanical Gardens
Visit the McMillan Greenhouse for a guided tour of the cactus room, and follow-up fun in the classroom making three-dimensional cactus crafts.
Sunset Kayak
Anne Springs Close Greenway
Spend a beautiful summer evening kayaking on the still waters of Lake Haigler. The guide will outfit guests with a kayak and Personal Flotation Device before exploring the lake and surrounding environment. Children younger than 12 must be accompanied by an adult in a tandem kayak. For nonmembers, a Greenway entry fee of $5 is required in addition to cost of event.
Reading on the Railroad
North Carolina Transportation Museum
Enjoy transportation themed stories, plus a hands-on activity complementing the book.
Shark Behind the Scenes Tour
SEA LIFE Charlotte-Concord
Become a shark expert during the first-ever Shark Behind-the-Scenes Tour. Experience an exclusive shark feeding, see baby bamboo sharks and learn how the aquarium cares for its sharks. Tour space is limited; 15 guests max capacity.
Sounds on the Square
The Square at Spirit Square
Do not miss these outdoor performances every Friday night this summer at Spirit Square. Events will be moved indoors if there is inclement weather. Concessions and beverages will be available for purchase. Don’t forget to bring your lawn chair.
Mingling on the Greens
Birkdale Village
Join Birkdale Village for live music every Friday and Saturday night through August 25. Bring a chair or a blanket.
Tyrannosaurs: Meet the Family
Discovery Place Science
Meet the Family, an innovative, multimedia experience showcasing never-before-seen dinosaurs in the Tyrannosaurs family tree. Don’t miss the Dino Pit, or the daily show-Saurus!
Head to Gaffney for the South Carolina Peach Festival! Enjoy activities including inflatables, live music, delicious foods, road races, carnival, pageant, and a car show. The kick-off is downtown, 201 N. Limestone Street, Gaffney.
ImagiCon
ImaginOn: The Joe & Joan Martin Center
This library festival celebrates the culture surrounding comic books, graphic novels, manga, anime, fandoms, and gaming. The event aims to provide a safe space for those interested in exploring these interests, to inspire creativity and to introduce children and families to local industry careers and artistry opportunities.
Discovery Place Nature: The Buzz About Bees
Discovery Place – Nature
Enjoy special programs and activities focused on the importance of honeybees and beekeeping. Meet beekeepers, learn about beekeeping and the benefits of bees, and check out bee hives. As a special bonus, celebrate the launch of the very first honey produced by Discovery Place Nature. A limited supply will be available for sale!
KidsFest
Carowinds
Calling all kids! KidsFest features super-fun interactive games and activities designed just for kids and their families, including music from popular kids’ groups that will rock the house!
The Sky is Not the Limit Summer Science Session
Carolina’s Aviation Museum
Learn about career opportunities in aviation and STEM. Meet mentors and professionals in these fields and find out what they do and how they got to where they are.
Creek Stomp
Latta Plantation Nature Preserve
Wade in the shallow water of a shady stream while searching for salamanders, crayfish and other creek dwellers. Be prepared to get wet and muddy. Registration is required. Meet at the North Canoe Launch parking area.
Stories Under the Stars
Kannapolis Library
Join us for this unique literary performing arts event. Programs are geared toward families with children of all ages.
Night by the Tracks: Family Camp Out
North Carolina Transportation Museum
Pack your family and camping gear for a night at the N.C. Transportation Museum! This tent-camping event will include dinner, games, a scavenger hunt, story time, crafts, an ice cream bar, and a Legends by Lantern Tour on Saturday. Campers can also enjoy breakfast on Sunday. See website for registration, rules, and schedules.
Open Sail Dates
Lake Norman YMCA
Attendees can check out the Sunfish and practice their sailing skills. Children ages 11 and younger need to be accompanied by a competent sailor. A short test will be given to sailors to ensure they can safely maneuver the boat. July 21, 1-4pm August 18, 10:30am-1:30pm September 15, 1-3pm.
Ask a Naturalist
Latta Nature Center
Drop in to chat with a naturalist about the plants and animals that call Mecklenburg County home. You’ll learn about some common nature misconceptions and find answers to your most burning questions. The first session is 2-2:30 p.m., and another session is scheduled to follow from 3:30-4:00 p.m.
International Champions Cup: Liverpool FC vs Borussia Dortmund
Bank of America Stadium
Bring your little soccer stars to see Liverpool FC take on Borussia Dortmund in Bank of America Stadium. The International Champions Cup is a must-see for futbol fans!
Picnic in the Park
Fourth Ward Park
Bring a picnic and enjoy live music.
*All images sourced from Facebook pages of events listed or free sources.
