We think it’s never too early to start planning ahead for the weekend. From OrthoCarolina’s 10k to wine classes, there’s something for everyone in this week’s round-up. Here’s what to do this weekend in Charlotte:
ALL WEEKEND
Tread Nightly Tread Brightly – Half Marathon and 4 Miler
August 17 – 18 | U.S. National Whitewater Center
Hit the trails under the stars for the The Tread Nightly Trail Half Marathon and four-miler. Make it a two-day event by camping out and rising for the Tread Brightly Half Marathon and 4-miler the following morning. Two distances are offered for both the evening and morning races.
Charlotte Pride Week and Festival
Through August 19 | Various locations
Charlotte Pride is the area’s largest LGBTQ event, featuring a two-day festival, annual parade and parties. Don’t miss performances from Superfruit, Jessica Sutta, Cupcakke, Coco Montrese and more. Find all events here.
THURSDAY
Sip & Stroll in the Garden
Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden | 5 – 9 p.m.
Each Thursday through the end of August, head to Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden for a summer evening of live music, blooms, libations and strolling. Garden admission applies: $12.95 per adult, $11.95 per senior 60+ and $6.95 per child ages 2-12.
Beer Tasting w/ Birdsong Brewing
Little Big Burger CLT | 6 – 8 p.m.
Little Big Burger will host a special tasting of Birdsong Brewing Co. beers. Which goes best with your go-to burger?
Raclette Night
Orrman’s Cheese Shop | 4 – 8 p.m.
Each week at Orrman’s Raclette night, a new cheese takes center stage. Try the featured melted cheese over roasted potatoes served with cornichons and mustard. $10 per plate, or $13 to add charcuterie.
Modernism + Film | Designing America
Bechtler Museum of Modern Art | 6 – 9 p.m.
Discover the work of Frederick Law Olmsted, whose efforts to preserve nature in public parks are still felt today, in this biographical film. A reception with a cash bar and complimentary light bites begins at 6 p.m., followed by the screening at 7 p.m. $10 general admission, $8 for museum members and $5 for students.
Sip & Stretch
Aloft Charlotte Ballantyne | 6:30 p.m.
NC Yoga Bar hosts this class in the backyard of Aloft Charlotte Ballantyne. Afterwards, stick around for live music, half price wine and $3 draft beers. $10 per person.
Summer Concert Series
Anne Springs Close Greenway | 6:30 p.m.
The summer concert series at Anne Springs Close Greenway continues with performances each Thursday through August. This week, Triple Play Band takes the stage. There is also a weekly fun run and yoga before the concert beginning at 6 p.m. $5 parking, $5 concert admission fee, $5 entry fees apply to non-members for yoga and run club.
Classic Chocolate Truffles with FEAST & Potts Chocolate
Potts Chocolate | 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.
Learn all about chocolate, truffles and other sweet confections in this hands-on workshop led by Blair Potts, master chocolatier and owner or Potts Charlotte. $90 per person.
Seafood Pizza & Wine Pairing
Thursday, August 16 | Inizio Pizza Dilworth | 7 p.m.
Celebrate the tastes of summer as Inizio fires up two specialty seafood pizzas and hosts a wine tasting. Try a white clam pie and low country boil pie and sample a variety of complementary wines. $55 per person.
The Breakfast Club at Alive After Five
210 E Trade St. | 5 – 10 p.m.
The Alive After Five concert series continues this week with a lively performance by ice if the most recognized eighties tribute bands in the U.S., The Breakfast Club.
FRIDAY
In-Depth Sauvignon Blanc
Corkbuzz Charlotte | 6:30 P.M.
Explore the popular white grape varietal through tastings of six wines, from dry to sweet, from across the globe. Discover its history, best pairings and more in this class perfect for summer. $60 per person.
Bechtler By Night: Opera Recycles
Bechtler Museum of Modern Art | 5 – 9 p.m.
This edition of Bechtler By Night lets fashion take center stage. Unused Opera Carolina marketing pieces get a vibrant new life as the materials for intricate gowns and dresses, on display during this monthly free night out at the museum. Bechtler by Night also includes interactive activities, live entertainment and a full bar with specialty cocktails.
Fall 2018 Season Kick Off
Windy Hill Orchard & Cider Mill | 5 – 9 p.m.
Get ready for fall at Windy Hill Orchard & Cider Mill’s season kick-off. Grab some delicious apple cider donuts and wash them down with hard cider tastings at the cider bar.
Science on the Rocks: Pirates & Mermaids
Discovery Place Science | 5 – 9 p.m.
Set sail for adventure as this month’s Science on the Rocks explores the world of mermaids and pirates. Themed activities for this adults-only night out include a rum runner obstacle course, catapult beer pong, live jellyfish encounter, pirate ship races, a mermaid photo op and more. $10 in advance, $12 at the door.
Live Music + Cats with John Sullivan
Mac Tabby Cat Café | 7:30 p.m.
Start your weekend by visiting with lovable cats and hearing live acoustic music from John Sullivan, whose musical style is influenced by Van Morrison, Bob Dylan and Jack Johnson. $12 admission.
Harris Teeter presents Chef’s Best
Friday, August 17 | Charlotte Convention Center | 6 p.m.
The 29th annual Chef’s Best event features a three-course meal prepared on stage by Fahrenheit’s Chef Rocco Whalen, live music, a reception highlighting some of the city’s best restaurants and more to raise funds for hunger relief. $100 per person.
Carolina Panthers vs. Miami Dolphins
Bank of America Stadium | 7:30 p.m.
Don’t miss your chance to see the Carolina Panthers take on the Miami Dolphins in this preseason game. Get your tickets online.
Black & Blue Blaze Tailgate
Blue Blaze Brewing | 7 – 10 p.m.
At Blue Blaze, the countdown to kickoff gets started at 2 p.m. with plenty of ways to celebrate the return of football season. 64oz. beer pitchers are $10 off all day, they’ll have yard games and fire pits and free-to-use charcoal grills. Stick around to watch the game on a 12-foot projection screen.
Art Walk and Artists’ Reception
Downtown Concord | 6 – 9 p.m.
This free event features live music, refreshments, artist demonstrations and more activities in the heart of downtown Concord. The Art Walk will also serve as the opening reception for the Cabarrus Arts Council’s newest exhibition In the Open Air, open at The Galleries through October 19. Free and open to the public.
Maggiano’s Charlotte Murder Mystery Dinner
Maggiano’s SouthPark | 7 p.m.
Get carried away in the ultimate whodunnit at Maggiano’s in SouthPark. This night of murder and mystery includes a family-style menu, one complimentary glass of beer or wine and the chance to play detective in a hilariously twisted investigation. $65 per person.
Barista Craft Dessert Class: Infused Sugar and Churros
Barista Craft Highland Creek | 7 – 9 p.m.
Learn to make infused sugars and churros with Antwine Antoinette, who was recently featured on ABC’s The Great American Baking Show. Attendees will also enjoy a complimentary glass of wine and receive recipe cards to take home. $15 per person.
SATURDAY
9th Annual OrthoCarolina 10K Classic
1915 Randolph Rd. | 7:30 a.m.
This favorite local race will feature multiple ways to participate, from the full 10K to a 5K run/walk, kids dash and a rookie run designed for first-timers. After crossing the finish line, sample beer from local breweries and try creations from Charlotte food trucks.
Back to School Mini Block Wood Sign Workshop
AR Workshop Charlotte | 10 a.m. and 1 p.m.
Surprise your favorite teacher (or get the kids excited for back-to-school) by making your own free standing mini wood sign. There are two Saturday sessions: 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. $15+.
6th Anniversary Party
Triple C Brewing Company | Noon – 10 p.m.
Help Triple C Brewing toast to six years with a full live music line-up, listing tents, food trucks, a special beer ice cream from Golden Cow Creamery and more.
Down Dog at Draught with NC Yoga Bar
Draught Charlotte | 10 a.m.
Find your center with a weekly yoga class led by NC Yoga Bar. Stick around after class for a free post-workout mimosa. $10 per person.
Flavors of the Summer: Watermelon
Lenny Boy Brewing Co. | 11 a.m. – 11 p.m.
Lenny Boy is going all out to celebrate the season of summer with free watermelons, small batch brews, a watermelon eating contest for dogs, vendors and food trucks.
An Afternoon with Casamigos
Saturday, August 18 | Dot Dot Dot Charlotte | 3 p.m.
Dot Dot Dot and Casamigos Tequila team up for an afternoon pairing of four tequilas (Casamigos Silver Tequila, Reposado, Anejo and Mezcal) with Mexican street food inspired dishes created by executive chef David Quintana. $45 per person.
Summer Night Jam Session – Diverse Groove
Waverly Charlotte | 7 – 10 p.m.
Waverly has added a special Saturday night concert in The Terrace to keep the summer fun going. See the Diverse Groove Band live on stage and enjoy beverages from Sugar Creek Brewing.
The First Ever Uptown Flea
Saturday, August 18 | 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Shop over 80 flea vendors, collectors, vintage dealers, local shops and more at the first ever Uptown Flea. While you shop, enjoy live music and food truck offerings. $1 entry fee.
Home Winemaking 101
Seven Jars | 9:45 a.m. – 12:45 p.m.
Learn how to make great wine at home for less than $3 per bottle. Yes, you read that right. The professionals at Seven Jars will teach you how in this hands-on class that also includes samples. $49 per person.
Pineapple Bali
Charlotte Flower Market | 10 – 11:30 a.m.
Master Designer Tammy helps participants create a pineapple themed arrangement made from seeded eucalyptus, astilbe, blue thistle, rose’s and mini pineapples. Take home your custom bouquet and receive 15% off additional take home purchases on event day (excluding floral cutters and specials). $45 per person.
SUNDAY
Low Country Boil
Sycamore Brewing | 2 – 6 p.m.
Help welcome South End newcomer The Waterman to the neighborhood ahead of their September opening with a low country boil at Sycamore. Try shrimp, sausage, corn, oysters and potatoes for just $15. The day also includes live music and beer, wine and cider offerings from Sycamore.
Pancake Pops
Reid’s Fine Foods SouthPark | 10:30 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Join Reid’s Fine Foods SouthPark for brunch this Sunday to try Blanket Pancakes and Syrup mini pancake pops. Enjoy hot buttermilk pancake pop samples dipped in classic maple or vanilla bean flavored syrup, in addition to the Sunday Brunch Buffet.
Free Yoga at the Park with King of Pops
Independence Park | 1 – 2 p.m.
Gear up for the week ahead with free yoga in Independence Park, plus treats from King of Pops. Class is led by Rebekah Coggins of Okra Charlotte. Bring your own mat.
Little King Art’s 1 Year Anniversary Celebration
Red Clay Ciderworks | 2 – 5 p.m.
Celebrate Little King Art’s first anniversary with a hands-on art workshop (you’ll hand paint your own mug or glass) and free 5 oz. cider pours for guests who arrive during the first hour (2 – 3 p.m.).
Simple Healthy Eating with Erin Falls of Planks and Pizza
Savory Spice Shop | 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.
Registered Dietician Erin Falls demonstrates four different simple and healthy dishes, including:
- Homemade Granola Bar Bites
- Orange Smoothie with a Twist
- Miniature Vegetarian Pizza Quiche
- Avocado and Spinach Pesto Pasta
Attendees will also receive a 10% off purchases of spices and seasonings during the class. $15 per person.
The Bridal Showcase
Sunday, August 19 | Charlotte Convention Center | Noon – 5 p.m.
Even if you’ve already made the walk down the aisle, grab your girlfriends and a bride-to-be to enjoy this summer’s Bridal Showcase. You’ll visit with over 100 of Charlotte’s top wedding specialists and vendors, sample cake and food, participate in contests and win door prizes, and end with a Grand Finale Fashion Show.
Picnic in the Park feat. Jeremy Davis
Fourth Ward Park | 4 – 6 p.m.
Enjoy live music in the park as Jeremy Davis returns for his second Picnic in the Park performance of the summer. Don’t forget your lawn chairs and picnic blankets.
