This weekend in Mecklenburg County, NC

Charlotte Running Club hosts a free group outing on Mallard Creek Greenway with an out and back route that begins and ends at Mallard Creek Elementary School. Runners and walkers of every pace are welcome, and no membership or registration is required. Water will be available at the start and finish as well as along the greenway. If the route is new to you, on-site guidance can help identify a comfortable turnaround point, so arriving a bit early is recommended.

Hosted at Harry L. Jones Golf Course, this fundraiser supports Agape Dental Ministry, which provides free dental care to underserved neighbors, military veterans, and their spouses in the Charlotte Metrolina area. The aim is to raise more than $20,000 for Agape Dental Ministry. The field is limited to 120 golfers and uses a Captain’s Choice best ball format with a shotgun start to keep play moving. A catered lunch is included, and participants can look forward to raffles, tournament prizes, and contests. Sponsorship opportunities include branding on 360 premium golf balls, with a sleeve placed in every player’s bag, as well as options to sponsor towels, pin flags, or a hole. For details, contact Tiffany at tiffany@steelecreekchurch.org or text 704-964-5649.

Prepare for concealed carry in the Carolinas with a comprehensive class that satisfies the state training requirement for North and South Carolina permit applicants. The curriculum combines classroom instruction on NC and SC laws with core firearm safety, followed by a live-fire qualification conducted on site so there is no need to travel elsewhere. This course is intended for participants who already handle firearms safely. To receive certification, you must demonstrate safe operation and pass the shooting qualification; those who do not meet the standard will not be certified. Registration includes a range pass valid for 30 days, which can be used beforehand for additional practice. To qualify, bring a handgun chambered in .380 caliber or larger; .22 Magnum pistols are permitted only with prior instructor approval. Please bring 50 rounds of ammunition and keep it secured in your vehicle until directed by the instructor. The cost is $140 per person, and advance registration is required.

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An annual CFL Topgolf fundraiser in Charlotte features three hours at Topgolf, a buffet lunch, and non-alcoholic beverages, with a bar available at the venue for purchase. As the event winds down, organizers will share the ministry’s vision and outline ways to get involved. A silent auction will be held as part of the gathering. This fundraiser supports efforts to strengthen marriages in communities, churches, and countries worldwide.

Explore Charlotte’s small business community at a monthly SouthPark market presented by Shop Local QC. Set on the green beside Legion Brewing, this curated gathering showcases 30 small shops and makers. Look for a blend of returning favorites and new vendors, with handmade items, thoughtful finds, and local character throughout. It offers a warm, community-centered shopping experience in one of Charlotte’s favorite neighborhoods.

An award-winning drag brunch headlined by 2019 and 2020 National Entertainer of the Year Buff Faye brings a lively show with her cast of drag divas and favorite local queens. Presented at Midtown Tavern, this long-standing event has been recognized as the Carolinas’ longest-running drag brunch since 2009 and has earned honors such as Best Drag Performer from QC Nerve in 2025 and Charlotte Magazine’s top drag brunch in 2020. Tickets cover the performance, while food and beverages are purchased separately, a cash bar is available, and gratuity for servers is additional. Locally owned and operated, it supports area drag artists and fosters a welcoming, inclusive space that celebrates LGBTQ+ communities and allies. All sales are final with no refunds, and event details may change.

The third annual free Oktoberfest features authentic German beer, lively polka music, and family-friendly fun. Additional event details will be shared soon.

Explore the second oldest house in Charlotte on a guided tour of Historic Rosedale, a fifteen room home from the Federal period. Expert guides share insights into daily life in the antebellum era while highlighting notable architecture and decorative arts throughout this carefully restored museum. The experience also includes an introduction to the African American Legacy Project and a look at rotating exhibits. Guests are asked to check in at the Welcome Center before the tour begins. Afterward, plan time to wander the gardens and grounds and visit the reconstructed blacksmith shop at your own pace. Those taking a later tour may wish to explore the grounds beforehand. Advance tickets are recommended. Tour tickets include access to the grounds, so there is no separate grounds fee. Tours proceed in all weather and tickets are nonrefundable. Guided tours are offered on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, and most Saturdays.

Returning for another round, this contest invites builders to create their own boats and put them to the test on the competition channel, taking on class II to IV rapids. Participants navigate their handmade vessels through challenging water to see how their designs perform.

An immersive songwriting session designed to spark creativity and collaboration, the Young Icons Songwriter Lock-in Series is sponsored by ASC’ Culture Blocks, a community partnership funded by Mecklenburg County. Set within GRINDHAUS STUDIOS, participants make use of three fully equipped rooms and settle into an atmosphere charged with creative energy. Light refreshments are available to keep ideas flowing as the experience gets underway. The program begins with a selection of curated tracks to inspire new ideas, followed by a split into three groups where experienced facilitators guide the co-creation of an original song from the ground up. Whether someone brings strengths in lyrics, melody, or production, there is space for every skill set. With state-of-the-art gear and acoustically tuned rooms, attendees can record vocals, shape arrangements, and experiment freely. Along the way, there are opportunities to connect with other creatives, work in a professional environment, and build relationships that may lead to future projects, all within a setting that encourages exploration and fresh musical expression.

Watch handmade boats take on class II to IV rapids, then enjoy live music on the River Jam Stage. This event pairs whitewater action with a live performance for a memorable combination.

This family-friendly Halloween party at Mint Hill Community Center features storytime, creative crafts, tasty treats, and lots of dancing. It is designed for kids and their caregivers, and adults do not need tickets.

Wags and Walks is a friendly dog walking group where pet parents and their pups can get outside, enjoy fresh air, and stay active together. It offers an easy way to meet other single dog lovers, make pet friendly connections, and find playmates for their dogs. Each outing visits different parks and outdoor spots, giving participants a chance to explore new places while socializing and exercising. Dogs of every size and temperament are welcome, and owners can connect with fellow pet parents, share tips, and build new friendships. A monthly update provides upcoming walk dates, meeting locations, and times to make planning simple.

Settle in at Neoteric Brewing Company for an acoustic set from Matt McKinley. Enjoy a mix of 90s favorites, classic rock, country, and a few original songs while you sip your favorite drink. It is a relaxed night of live music with familiar hits and personal touches from the artist.

A longtime music director and a keyboardist who has topped the charts, Brian Simpson is a leading figure in contemporary jazz. His melodic approach weaves R&B, funk, and Latin influences into an inviting sound honed on major stages. His path has included touring with Janet Jackson, a decade working with George Duke, and collaborations with Anita Baker, Dave Koz, and Gerald Albright. With an international schedule that reaches across Europe and Asia, he brings a polished presence shaped by global experience. His twelfth album, Midnight Groove, highlights the refined artistry that keeps him at the forefront of the genre.

Staind takes the stage for a live rock concert that blends hard‑hitting songs with high‑energy showmanship. Expect an evening of big choruses, intense emotion, and memorable moments long after the final note.

Karaoke runs every Saturday in a supportive, judgment free setting, with DJ Rick the RULER providing the tracks. Singers can step up to the mic and share favorite songs in a relaxed atmosphere with plenty of encouragement.

Whitney Cummings brings her Big Baby tour to Knight Theater at Levine Center for the Arts in Charlotte, showcasing the fearless observational comedy that has defined her for the past two decades. The set explores life as a single mom, the messy business of personal growth, taking responsibility for your missteps, and hilarious moments from raising her son, all delivered with her quick wit and a blend of personal stories and sharp cultural commentary. Cummings is the co-creator and co-writer of the Emmy Award winning CBS series 2 Broke Girls and the creator, producer, and star of the NBC sitcom Whitney. She hosts the podcast Good for You and appeared in Friends: The Game Show on Max, a fan competition honoring the 30th anniversary of Friends. Her work also includes six stand-up specials across Netflix, Max, and Comedy Central, the candid 2017 memoir I’m Fine...And Other Lies, and her feature directorial debut The Female Brain, which she co-wrote and starred in.

Team up for a free Magic: The Gathering 2 Headed Giant Commander night in a relaxed setting. Pairs of all kinds are welcome, whether you are partners, friends, family, or simply two players ready to team up. Expect casual play, a friendly atmosphere, and plenty of chances to meet other Commander pairs, make new connections, or reconnect with familiar faces.

This show takes place in an open-air setting with no covered seating, and it will proceed in any weather, so attendees should prepare for the elements. Event details, performers, and pricing may change without notice, and service fees apply to all ticket purchases regardless of where they are bought. Outside lawn chairs are not allowed. Ticket access includes multiple presales, such as artist, Live Nation, Spotify, and VIP package options, followed by a public onsale.

Two Door Cinema Club performs live at Skyla Credit Union Amphitheatre in Charlotte, NC. Enjoy a concert with the band at this Charlotte venue.

Lauren Alaina takes the stage at Coyote Joes in Charlotte, NC for a night of live music. The performance highlights her songs and offers a concert experience dedicated to her sound.

Set by the lake, the Novant Health Lake Norman 15K & 5K features two distances. Pick a family-oriented 5K with minimal turns, or take on a longer 15K that extends across the peninsula’s many fingers. Either choice offers an upbeat way to get moving by the water.

Sun & Ski Sports in Charlotte hosts a community road ride that welcomes a range of abilities and emphasizes fitness, skill building, and camaraderie. Weather permitting, groups depart from the store parking lot a few minutes apart and follow a rolling route through South Charlotte, Waxhaw, Marvin, and into Lancaster County, South Carolina. The store and restrooms open ahead of the rollout so riders can take care of last-minute needs, with basic mechanical help and credit card purchases available before departure. Multiple pace groups are offered. Advanced riders tackle roughly 35 to 42 miles at an average above 20 mph with a fast, drop format and no planned regroup or rest stop. The B group averages about 18 to 19 mph with tight pacelines, one rest stop, some regrouping, and a drop policy. The C group covers approximately 27 miles at 16 to 17 mph with one rest stop and several regroup points in a semi-drop format. Intermediate options span about 27 or 35 miles at 17 to 18 mph with a rest stop and several regroup opportunities, also semi-drop. A beginner option of about 27 miles at 14 to 16 mph may be added based on interest and leadership, featuring one rest stop and a no-drop approach. Helmets are required and road bikes are strongly recommended. Front and rear lights, along with glasses and gloves, are encouraged. Riders should arrive self-sufficient with hydration and nutrition, know basic bike maintenance such as fixing a flat and adjusting brakes, carry a phone and emergency contact details, and be prepared to keep pace with their chosen group. Knowing the route or having it downloaded is important in case of separation. Routes may include urban traffic, so ride predictably, keep at least one hand on the bars, and do not cross the centerline. Participants are responsible for their own safety.

SouthEnd Stroll is a new recurring open-air market in the heart of South End Charlotte. This Sunday-focused experience brings a lively neighborhood vibe with coffee in tow and over 75 curated small businesses. Explore vintage finds, boutique selections, handmade goods, candles, jewelry, sweet treats, art, and lifestyle brands as you take in the atmosphere of a community stroll. Created to build a consistent Sunday shopping tradition for South End, the series returns on a regular basis. Vendor applications are open and spots are filling quickly.

The second annual Parada Dominicana celebrates the heritage and spirit of the Dominican Republic with live music, folk showcases, traditional dances, Dominican cuisine, local makers, and cultural displays. Admission is free. A vibrant atmosphere highlights the country’s rhythms, flavors, and enduring traditions.

A weekly Pokémon league for players 16 and older welcomes all skill levels in a supportive community atmosphere. New participants are encouraged to create a Pokémon ID in advance, and assistance with the process is available when you arrive. Entry is $10. Every player receives a guaranteed pack of their choice, along with an exclusive Prize Pack for each win.

Go! Go! Gary! is a lively patio party that showcases Charlotte electronic music selectors and creators. The event features powerful sound, a standout setting, and a welcoming crowd. It happens every 2nd and 4th Sunday.

Matt Bergman traded a criminal justice degree for the mic after realizing in his final year of college that comedy was the better fit. Since then he has built a reputation for approachable, flexible humor with spots on Gotham Comedy Live, Comedy Central Live, Dry Bar Comedy, and a special on Amazon Prime. His album Mostly Nice is available on Amazon Prime, and his mother jokes that buying it was tricky only because streaming still trips her up. This event features a comedian whose journey from late-college discovery to national screens is fueled by relatable stories and crisp timing.

MercyMe brings its 2026 tour to Charlotte with Jeremy Camp, Tim Timmons, and Sam Wesley for an evening of contemporary Christian music. The show features a blend of worship and pop rock, with opportunities to hear favorites like I Can Only Imagine, Even If, and Greater. The full lineup delivers inspiring performances, with MercyMe’s biggest hits and heartfelt moments shaping a concert filled with uplifting energy.

MercyMe leads a night of music at Boplexclt in Charlotte with Jeremy Camp, Tim Timmons, and Sam Wesley. The set features singalong favorites from MercyMe, including "I Can Only Imagine" and "Even If," songs that reflect faith and enduring promises. Jeremy Camp adds "I Still Believe" and "Dead Man Walking." The evening opens with Tim Timmons and Sam Wesley performing together, pairing "Starts with Me" with the dynamic "Holding Onto Me." Big songs and big moments come together for a concert meant to be shared.

MercyMe, Jeremy Camp, Tim Timmons, and Sam Wesley share the stage for a live music event at Bojangles Coliseum in Charlotte, NC. This multi-artist show brings these performers together on the same stage in Charlotte.

Kenny Wayne Shepherd takes the stage at Knight Theater at Levine Center for the Arts with the Ledbetter Heights 30th Anniversary Tour. The Shreveport, Louisiana native made his mark in 1995 by pushing blues back into the spotlight with fiery guitar work, pop-rock hooks, and a deep respect for the genre. He has revisited his breakthrough album, Ledbetter Heights, with a faithful new recording that features more refined arrangements and nuanced playing while keeping the intensity alive. Named for a historic neighborhood in his hometown that honors Huddie Ledbetter, the album launched him into the mainstream and set him on a path as a committed ambassador for the blues. This show features the full 12-track Ledbetter Heights performed live, followed by a second set highlighting three decades of his career.