How about making a fun resolution for 2019? Commit to more bonding time with your best girlfriends this January using our guide to the best girls’ nights out around Charlotte. Whether your crew is into DIY (and a little BYOB), discovering new flavors, or taking in an art show or ballet, start planning your night out here.
ARTS & CULTURE WITH THE GIRLS IN JANUARY
NC Yoga Bar at the Mint
Every Wednesday | Mint Museum Uptown | 5:30 p.m. and 6:45 p.m.
Yoga and art? Count us in. Each Wednesday head to The Mint Museum Uptown for a one-hour class with NC Yoga Bar (classes are at 5:30 and 6:45) before or after exploring the Mint’s galleries, which are open for free from 5 – 9 p.m. Yoga class drop-ins are just $10 per class.
Matthew Bourne’s Cinderella
January 6 – 12 | Belk Theater
Together, you and the girls can revisit the classic fairy tale with reimagined storytelling, music, lighting and production when it comes to Belk Theater this month. Complete the evening with reservations at one of Uptown’s culinary hotspots like Angeline’s or Fin & Fino. Tickets start at $25.
Through The Lens Opening Reception
January 10 |Â 532 Governor Morrison Street | 6 p.m.
Don’t miss the opening reception of Through the Lens, ANFA’s first photography exhibition on display through February 2. Featured artists include Fred Bettin, Edwina Willis Fleming, Thomas Hager, Josef Hoflehner, Pam Moxley, Laurie Tennent, Dean West and Ben Winkler, who will each bring a unique vision for your crew to explore and discuss.
Transparency Opening Reception
January 11 |Â Elder Gallery of Contemporary Art | 6 p.m.
Discover work from some of the most accomplished glass artists in the country in this group exhibition at the Elder Gallery of Contemporary Art. Featured artists, many from North Carolina, include David Patchen, Alex Bernstein, Brent Skidmore, Mark Leputa, Linda Luise Brown, Elizabeth Ross and Chris Watts. Complete your night out with dinner at the nearby YUME Ramen Sushi & Bar.
Kenny Nguyen “Interwoven” Opening Reception
January 11 | Sozo Gallery | 6 p.m.
Join Sozo Gallery for the opening of Charlotte-based mixed media artist Kenny Nguyen’s “Interwoven”, the gallery’s first exhibit of 2019. Don’t miss the artist talk led by Andy Smith of Charlotte Magazine held at 7 p.m.
Opera Carolina’s “Carmen”
January 19, 20 and 24 | Belk Theater
Carmen’s free spirit and gypsy ways made her a feminist heroine and the focus of an opera recognized as the most famous of all time. In fact, it’s likely you’ll recognize the music from shows, movies and commercials even if you’ve never seen the show. Get tickets for your girlfriends now for one of Carolina Opera’s three performances of “Carmen”.
Adult Art Party: Mixed Media
January 25 | Mint Museum Uptown | 6 p.m.
It’s time for a party at the Mint studios, and you and the girls are invited. Bring your creativity for a mixed media studio experience (dress for a mess), a private mini-tour and adult beverages. Bring your own beer or wine! $40 per person, $30 for Mint members.
Charlotte Ballet’s Innovative Works
January 25 – February 16 |Â The Patricia McBride & Jean-Pierre Bonnefoux Center for Dance
In this creative collaboration between choreographers and Charlotte-area Shakespeare experts, the works of William Shakespeare come to life through in Charlotte Ballet’s Innovative Works. Your tickets include a dessert reception with the dancers and artistic staff following the show. $25 – $80 tickets.
Symphony On Tap
January 29 |Â NoDa Brewing Company | 7 p.m.
Looking for an activity that combines laid-back craft beer and music from your Charlotte Symphony? Head to the taproom at NoDa Brewing Company for a live performance and brews. $15 tickets.
DO-IT-YOURSELF OPTIONS IN JANUARY
The Candle Bar
1800 Camden Rd #105
Book your reservation now for the ultimate DIY girls’ night out. New to South End, The Candle Bar allows your group to choose your vessel, mix your unique fragrance and pour your own candle. Did we mention the class is BYOB? The entire experience is just $35 per person, and can be the perfect pre-or-post dinner (or Jeni’s) activity.
Pottery Class at Red Clay Ciderworks
January 16 |Â Red Clay Ciderworks | 7 p.m.
In this hands-on clay workshop you’ll create your own stein with help from artist Susan Hendley. Plus, you can enjoy a few tasty ciders from the bar. $30 per person.
Hands-on Mixology Classes
January 18 and 25 |Â Sweet Spot Studio CLT
Mix up your own cocktails in two hands-on classes this month: winter warmers and a gin masterclass. In each one, you and your girlfriends will make three full-size cocktails, from a spicy Aztec hot chocolate to drinks made with herbs and botanicals. Plus, enjoy light bites and learn about how to recreate your creations at home. $70+.
SIPS & BITES WITH THE GIRLS IN JANUARY
Monday Night Oyster Sessions
January 7 | Sea Level NC | 7 p.m.
Experience oysters five ways, including raw, poached, grilled, baked and fried, at the next edition of Sea Level’s Oyster Sessions. The evening also includes pairings with beverages from the bar, light bites and plenty of oyster knowledge. If January’s calendar is looking full, don’t fret! Sea Level offers an Oyster Session on the first Monday of each month for $50 per person.
Wine Tasting with Margo Van Staaveren
January 9 | Reid’s Fine Foods SouthPark | 5:30 p.m.
Meet, sip, and chat with Margo Van Staaveren, Chateau St. Jean General Manager and 2008 Winemaker of the year. She’ll be sampling multiple wines for just $10 per person. Read about all of the wines at the tasting table here. Tickets can be purchased at Reid’s SouthPark the day of the event.
Queen’s Feast: Charlotte Restaurant Week®
A sure thing for a stress-free night out, over 130 restaurants will offer special menus of three or more courses during Queen’s Feast from January 18 – 27.  Our top picks for girls’ night out via Queens Feast include:
- 5Church
- Bulla Gastrobar
- Dilworth Tasting Room
- ROCKSALT
- Vivace
- Zeppelin
Make your group’s reservation now!
