Is it just us or has this summer flown by? While we’re still trying to grasp the fact that it’s already August, Charlotte is kicking off the new month with plenty of things to keep us busy! Show your favorite football team some love at Panthers Fan Fest, get artsy in South End, party with your pup at Pawchella, enjoy free oysters, celebrate Optimist Hall’s 4th birthday, and much more.
THINGS TO DO THURSDAY, AUGUST 3
Young Icons Music Festival
August 3 – 5
Mark your calendars for this 3-day outdoor music festival featuring young and emerging artists in Charlotte. Along with live performances and youth music workshops, there will also be vendors, a Halal food cart, Popbar frozen treats, and more. Hosted by Will White, American Idol Season 12 Alum, and Grindhaus Studio Owner and Neo-soul Artist Jason Jet. Tickets can be purchased here.
Tasting Experience at Chez Marie
Thursday, August 3, 1 – 5p
Treat yourself to an assortment of small pastries at Chez Marie Cafe where they have “Le Goûter,” the experience of tasting, every Thursday from 1 – 5 p.m. Also happening from 3-5 p.m. each Thursday is the chance to sample nine French teas expertly curated by the Chez Marie team. Yum!
Music at the Met
Thursday, August 3, 6 – 9p
Head to the lively patio at the Metropolitan every Thursday evening for live music by local musicians. Enjoy food from surrounding restaurants including drink specials from Dressler’s.
THINGS TO DO FRIDAY, AUGUST 4
South End Gallery Crawl
Friday, August 4, 5 – 9p
Stroll the streets of one of Charlotte’s artsiest neighborhoods and enjoy local art in all forms including galleries, murals, and installations. Make a night of it with dinner and drinks at one of South End’s many restaurants and breweries.
Artsy Activities Happening in South End
Friday, August 4
- Along the Rail Trail at 108 E. Kingston Ave., you will find a local artist doing a live painting and the South End Gumball Machine from 5 PM – 8 PM. For 50 cents, spin the Gumball Machine for the opportunity to win a Rail Trail Sticker or a coupon to a local retail location. All proceeds will go to the Arts Empowerment Project.
- Meet with local artists and mingle with other art enthusiasts from 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM at Nebel’s Alley and the Design Center.
Exhibition Opening: my Presence is Present – the Gantt’s Second Biennial
Friday, August 4, 6 – 9p
Come out and celebrate the Harvey B. Gantt Center’s new exhibition, my Presence is Present: interpretations of afrosurrealism from the American South, curated by Carla Aaron-Lopez. This exhibition features 21 emerging and established artists in and around the Carolinas while exploring surrealism and its presence within African-American experiences.
Mint 2 Move Cultural Dance Night: What’s in The Vault?
Friday, August 4, 7:30 – 11:30p
This is not your average dance party. Mint 2 Move Cultural Dance Night is an artistic and cultural experience paying tribute to artists and dance forms from Latin, African, and Caribbean countries. It is the ultimate event where you can experience sizzling salsa, cha cha, bachata, line dancing, live musicians, Latin rhythms, Afro-beats, and dance lessons all under one roof.
Comedy Showcase at Common Market
Friday, August 4, 8p
Every first Friday of the month is comedy night at this popular South End spot. Laugh the night away as a rotating list of comedians take the stage while you enjoy craft beer, wine, or coffee, and Common Market’s late-night menu.
THINGS TO DO SATURDAY, AUGUST 5
Pawchella at Skiptown
Saturday, August 5, 11a – 10p
The ultimate Coachella-inspired dog event! Spend the day with your pup as they splash in the pool, have a foam party, and get all the delicious treats from the Pup Up Market. For hoomans, there will be live music, DJ jams, and a temporary tattoo station & decor to feel like you’re at Coachella.
The Waterman Fish Bar Brews & Brine
Saturday, August 5, 3p
An experience you won’t want to miss! The Waterman Fish Bar will be shucking 500 FREE oysters to honor National Oyster Day on August 5th at 3 p.m., all at 3000 S Tryon St. Come out to enjoy delicious oysters, craft beer, and giveaways. Bring your appetite and crew!
Glow Party at Old Armor Beer Company
Saturday, August 5, 9p – 12a
Glow the night away with Old Armor’s Glow Party 2.0. Glow sticks and paint will be provided but feel free to paint yourself up prior and bring all the glow you want. 21+ after 9 p.m. Be sure to wear black so the paints and glow sticks glow!
THINGS TO DO SUNDAY, AUGUST 6
Front Porch Sundays
Sunday, August 6, 11a – 4p
Shop from over 70 local vendors offering everything from dog toys to handmade jewelry to fresh spices, grab food from surrounding restaurants and food trucks, and listen to live music all along the Rail Trail at Atherton Mill.
Optimist Hall’s 4th Birthday Celebration
Sunday, August 6, 12 – 4p
Come celebrate Optimist Hall’s 4th birthday with delicious food, face painters, balloon twisters, a bubble station, a caricature artist, live music, and more.
