Clean the house, prep the menu, make sure the kids have something suitable to wear. The Thanksgiving countdown (and to-do list) has officially started. But before you turn all your attention to the turkey, let loose a little this weekend. Here’s the round-up of where to go and what to do this weekend in Charlotte:
Craft Beer Tasting
Thursday, Nov. 19
Dilworth Neighborhood Grille
Everyone’s favorite bar & grill is rolling out two new craft beer taps this Thursday night. Come out and try Birdsong’s Jalapeno Pale Ale, Mexi Cali Stout and Higher Ground IPA and cross your fingers that you snag one of the giveaway prizes. Plus, it’s buy a pint, keep the glass (while supplies last).
2nd Annual Moonshine Festival
Friday, Nov. 20
Rooftop 210
Get your shine on this Friday night. The Epicenter is hosting their second annual Moonshine Fest in the heart of Uptown. Sample different moonshine flavors and taste creative concoctions from 7-11 PM. Get your tickets here.
Open House & Jewelry Jubilee
Friday, Nov. 20
McColl Center for Visual Art
Come and shop the creations of regional jewelry artists curated by 2011 Alumna Artist-in-Residence Eliana Arenas and Claudia Griffin in this free and public event. They will also be celebrating the opening of an exhibit featuring works by Missy Luczak-Smith + Doug Smith Fellow, Stephen L. Hayes Jr. and Ivan Toth Depeña.
22nd Beaujolais Festival of Charlotte
Friday, Nov. 20
Queens University of Charlotte – Burwell Hall
Celebrate the first grape harvest of the season with a tasting of six wines, live jazz and the authentic French tradition of Beaujolais Nouveau. A silent auction and all proceeds benefit The Alliance Française de Charlotte.
Shuffleboard Smackdown!
Friday, Nov. 20
Red Clay Ciderworks
Feed your competitive side at red Clay Cider’s shuffleboard tournament this weekend. Team of two will compete for two $20 gift cards and other fun goodies, while the non-winning team with the most creative team name will snag a mystery prize. Hurry up and claim your spot! Space is limited to eight teams.
Tree Lighting Celebration at Piedmont Town Center
Friday, Nov. 20
Piedmont Town Center
It’s that time of year again! Time to light up Piedmont Town Center with lights, carolers, carriage rides and even a visit from Mr. Claus himself. Come out early for holiday activities, drop a gift off for Toys for Tots, grab some hot chocolate and get ready for the big show. At 7 PM, the tree will be lit for the season!
Southend Tree Lighting
Saturday, Nov. 21
Ahterton Mill
If South End is closer to you, check out their very own tree lighting on Saturday night. Munch on treats from the Sugar food truck, stay warm with hot chocolate and apple cider and enjoy the sounds of holiday performances. The lights turn on at 6 PM!
Sugar Creek Brewing Company’s One Year Anniversary Celebration
Saturday, Nov. 21
Sugar Creek Brewing
Come out and cheers to Sugar Creek’s one year anniversary with special release beers, a Photo Booth, live music and good eats.
Ride & Seek MTB Adventure Race
Saturday, Nov. 21
U.S. National Whitewater Center
Grab your best sidekick and race to the finish like at Ride & Seek, the USNWC’s inaugural mountain biking adventure race. Be the first team to complete various challenges located throughout the 25-mile trail system to be crowned champion.
South End Bazaar
Saturday, Nov. 21
C3 Lab
Get a head start on your holiday shopping at the South End Bazaar. Shop local fashion, art and food vendors in the creative space at C3. While you shop, you’ll enjoy music from Sinners & Saints and Blessed These Sounds Under The City. Proceeds benefit The Isabella Santos Foundation.
Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons
Sunday, Nov. 22
The Belk Theater
Sing along with classic favorites as one of America’s all time classic groups takes the Charlotte stage. You’ll hear the familiar notes of “Sherry”, “Walk Like A Man,” “Big Girls Don’t Cry,” “Rag Doll,” “December ’63 – Oh What A Night,” “Can’t Take My Eyes Off of You,” and of course, “Grease.”
2nd Annual Carolina Panthers Tree Lighting Celebration
Tuesday, Nov. 24
Bank of America Stadium
Feel the holiday (and undefeated!) spirit at the lighting of the Carolina Panther’s Christmas tree. The free event on the corner of Mint and Graham streets will feature local performances, kids activities, food vendors and a visit from Santa Claus himself. Tree lights up at 7 PM!
Mark your calendars! Upcoming events in the QC:
7th Street Public Market Holiday Sip & Shop
7th Street Public Market
Wednesday, Dec. 2
7th Street Market is making it easy to shop local for the holidays. Start by heading out to their Sip & Shop on Dec. 2. Over 50 locally owned businesses will be setting up shop and the first 100 guests will receive free sparkling wine. In addition, shoppers will enjoy beer tastings, food samplings and even on-site chair massages. View the full list of vendors here.
