Don’t let the dog days of summer pass you by without having a little bit of fun in the Queen City. Here’s what you should have on your agenda for this weekend in Charlotte:
Orange Theory “I Do” Contest
Open through September 1
Orangetheory Fitness
If you’re planning a walk down the aisle, or are enjoying the blissful newlywed life, don’t forget to enter into Orangetheory Fitness’s “I Do” contest for a chance to win $5,000. The contest is open to all new and existing members that work out at Orangetheory at least 14 times between July 1 and September 1. Enter online here.
Joedance Film Festival
Friday, August 5-Saturday, August 6
10th Street Townhomes Courtyard
Celebrate Charlotte filmmakers, producers, writers and directors while raising funds for rare pediatric cancer research and clinical trials at Levine Children’s Hospital at the 7th Annual Joedance Film Festival. Bring your lawn chairs for viewings of original local films at the 10th Street Townhomes Courtyard beginning at 8:30 pm.
Cocktails and Garden Strolling
Monday-Thursday Evenings
The Duke Mansion
Wind down with a new type of happy hour amongst the beauty of the Duke Mansion. Grab a refreshing cocktail from the cash bar, then spend the evening strolling through the gardens. No reservations required. 5-8 pm.
August CLTtalks: Mentoring & Literacy
Thursday, August 4
BB&T Ballpark
Get involved in your community at this month’s CLTtalks event. At BB&T Ballpark, multiple area non-profits are joining forces to educate the public on mentoring and literacy needs in Charlotte. This free event also connects attendees with volunteer opportunities.
Mid-Century Modernism: Architecture & Interior Design
Thursday, August 4
The Charlotte Museum of History
To kick off excitement for the 2016 Mad About Modern Home Tour in September, speaker Ron Crider will discuss mid-century modern architecture and interior design. You’ll hear about the homes featured on the tour and the trends of the time. A reception will be held after the presentation.
Fan Fest 2016
Friday, August 5
Bank of America Stadium
The Panthers are back! Welcome them back to Bank of America stadium at this weekend’s Fan Fest. Admission is free but tickets are required. The night kicks off with performances by the TopCats, Sir Purr, PurrCussion and Black & Blue Crew, followed by an open team practice. Top off the night with a concert by Sol Fusion and a fireworks show.
Movies Under the Stars – Star Wars: The Force Awakens
Friday, August 5
Symphony Park
Cool down with the free movies series at South Park this August. It all kicks off this Thursday with a showing of Star Wars: The Force Awakens. Pack your blankets and lawn chairs and claim your spot early! Movies begin at dusk.
Jazz at the Bechtler: More and More Monk
Friday, August 5
Bechtler Museum of Modern Art
This month, The Ziad Jazz Quartet will pay homage to a legendary NC musician, Thelonious Monk. Get your tickets now for one of the two Friday evening performances, 6 pm at 8:15 pm.
Conforming: A Charlotte Storytellers Showcase
Friday, August 5-Saturday, August 6
Goodyear Arts
Eight local Charlotteans are coming together to tell their stories of “conforming” to social norms this weekend at Goodyear Arts. The summer showcase begins Friday and Saturday evening at 7:30 pm.
Cooking Class: Entertainment Training
Saturday, August 6
Mimosa Grill
Before summer cookouts are a thing of the past, sharpen up on your BBQ favorites just in time to host one last hoorah. The chefs at Mimosa Grill will lead attendees in this hands-on cooking class Saturday morning. $40 per person.
Friends and Beerfest: IPA Edition
Saturday, August 6
Legion Brewery
Cheers to National IPA Day with the first Friends and Beerfest: IPA Edition at Legion Brewing. Sample 15 locally breed IPAs, enjoy live music and dine on fare from Charlotte favorite restaurants. Day of tickets are $10 and include a taster glass and three taster tickets.
August Front Porch Sunday
Sunday, August 7
Shook Kelley
Stroll and shop along the Rail Trail at this month’s edition of Front Porch Sundays. Peruse the vendors, have lunch and enjoy the sunshine as you round out the weekend.1-5 pm.
Closing Celebration
Sunday, August 7
Maverick Rock Taco
It’s hard to believe but Maverick Rock Taco is closing its doors this weekend. Help bid them farewell at their Closing Night party Sunday at 7 pm. Drain the bar with great drink specials as well as food specials and a DJ.
Food Truck & Music in the Garden
Friday, August 26
Wing Haven Gardens
Plan ahead for a family-friendly summer evening of food trucks and music in the gardens. Wing Haven is hosting multiple area food trucks on-site, along with live music from Bobby Houck of the Blue Dogs. Food, popsicles, wine, beer and other beverages will be available for purchase. There are limited tickets, so claim your spot now!