Things To Do This Weekend! – February 10-12

Things To Do This Weekend! – February 10-12

Every year, this second weekend of February can play on a lot of emotions. The Super Bowl is over. Your team may or may not have come out victorious. Either way, you’re (possibly) grieving the loss of football for another several months. Likewise, this time of year, we’re posed with the task of balancing our feelings towards the Metro Charlotte, Carolina weather. Up and down, warm, cold; 74 degrees on Tuesday and 27 on Saturday. You attempt to stay positive and happy, anticipating the beautiful spring days, but then a cold front sweeps through. It’s enough to make the most joyful person roll their eyes a little. AND THEN, there’s the big “V-DAY” on the horizon. Is ANYONE stressing yet? Restaurant reservations are filling up. Chocolate heart boxes and flowers are flying off racks. And jewelry and card stores are vying for every ounce of your attention and your wallet. Don’t you LOVE this coming weekend? Well, let us be your weekend “destresser” and your emotions masseuse with a short list of Things To Do This Weekend. Check out some of these fun and flavorful, entertaining, educational, and worry-free events happening in the area.

Feast Food Tours

Whether it’s South Uptown, Historic South End, or Plaza Midwood, there is a delightful and delectable food tour ready to satisfy your cravings this weekend. Sample and sip your way through Uptown Charlotte’s best representations of the local South through its ingredients, cuisine, & farmers. Experience a variety of establishments to enjoy fellowship over great food and beverages. If you prefer fried pickles and local craft beer, it’s definitely available. If you favor on the side of chef-driven cooking, pull up a chair and enjoy. These FEAST TOURS are fantastic for a fun, early Valentine’s Day experience, or just a fun night out with friends. feastfoodtours.com

Kids Consignment Sale

Maybe you’ve been waiting for that ideal opportunity to load up on goodies for your young child(ren). You survived the Christmas rush of making sure that they got their holiday ‘wants’, but maybe there are some NEEDS that you’d like to take care of. Well, The Park Expo & Conference Center is the place for you this Saturday. It’s Charlotte’s LARGEST most ORGANIZED Children’s Consignment Sale. It’s 80,000 square feet, more than 100,000 items, over 13, 000 books, ½ mile of clothing racks, and more toys than you can imagine. It’s a shopping frenzy you just can’t miss! Become a consignor yourself and sell what the kids no longer need or simply come shop for the best deals around! And, the highlight of the day, IT’S FREE. ttbkidz.com

Blackfinn Love Stinks Let's Drink

What about the “ANTI” Valentine’s Day Party? Wait, WHAT??? If you are single, in a relationship, just got out of one, or just want to have a good time, then the “Love Stinks, Lets Drink” event at Blackfinn may be your ‘cup of tea” (or something stronger). It’s a fun way to protest Valentines Day, at the same time enjoying awesome décor, delicious cocktail specials, and games throughout the bar. So, don’t be down about this day of puffery and googly-eyed mayhem. Go the opposite direction and live it up with your favorite “ANTI” buds. blackfinnameripub.com

Sully at the Aviation Museum

Sometimes it’s alright to just stop, take a deep breath, and be entertained. Not very often can you be entertained, AND be experience a bit of history at the same time. I know that I’ll never here the name “Sully” and not be moved. The terms “Miracle” and “Hudson” will forever be synonymous. Friday night is your chance to enjoy an unforgettable viewing of the feature film,“Sully”. Experience the Miracle on the Hudson, Flight 1549, while seated under the wings of the actual Airbus A320. You’ll also be treated by a very special guest speaker and passenger from Flight 1549. Ticket includes: Admission to the Museum, Sully Screening, and Light Refreshments. carolinasaviation.org

Grapevine Wine Shop and Wine Bar

If you’re in the Fort Mill area, and want to unwind with a bit of local flavor, why not take in the eloquent and quaint ambiance of the Grapevine Wine Shop and Wine Bar. A distinctive mix of wines and specialty beers with value, their multi-purpose space is home to both a retail shop where you may purchase wines, beer, accessories and cigars as well as an on-premise bar area where you may enjoy wine, beer, artisan cheese and desserts in the company of your friends and neighbors. It’s certainly a gem to become familiar with. grapevine.wine

Bechtler Family Day

I heard a wise man once say, “if it’s FREE it’s for ME”. If you’re a parent and you you’re constantly longing to do things with your kids, but the price is always a factor, then the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art’s next Family Day will tickle your fancy. Admission is free for kids and $8 for adults. Besides the free and discounted admission, there will be free hands-on art activities throughout the museum for families to enjoy. You can create your own modern art-themed handmade Valentine’s Day cards, or explore the abstract art of Italian artist Italo Valenti by constructing a torn paper collage. Guided gallery tours are also available at 1 and 3 p.m. Get your creative and educational juices flowing on Saturday from 12 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. bechtler.org

Men are from Mars, Women are from Venus

Finally, if it’s laughs and comedic relief you’re needing, then there’s no better male/female Valentine’s Day treat than the presentation of “Men are from Mars Women are from Venus”. This off-Broadway comedy features a one-man show mixing theater and stand-up comedy, leaning on vignettes about dating and marriage. Before V-Day, it’s a delicious evening of entertainment! carolinatix.org

There are always a considerable amount of family and friend events happening in your own ‘backyard’. Some, you just have to show up for to partake in the festivities. Football will return, Valentine’s Day will turn out fine, and the weather is looking EXTREMELY favorable with a lot of sunshine! Get out and LIVE it to the fullest.

Market Update Videos For February 2017 – Greater Charlotte Region

Market Update Videos For February 2017 – Greater Charlotte Region

January brings out a rejuvenated crop of buyers with a renewed enthusiasm in a new calendar year. Sales totals may still inevitably start slow in the first half of the year due to ongoing inventory concerns. Continued declines in the number of homes available for sale may push out potential buyers who simply cannot compete for homes selling at higher price points in a low number of days, especially if mortgage rates continue to increase.

New Listings were up in the Charlotte region 4.7 percent to 3,937. Pending Sales increased 20.6 percent to 3,643. Inventory shrank 25.0 percent to 8,639 units. Prices moved higher as Median Sales Price was up 14.5 percent to $205,000. Months Supply of Homes for Sale was down 30.3 percent to 2.3 months, indicating that demand increased relative to supply.

In case you missed it, we have a new U.S. president. In his first hour in office, the .25 percentage point rate cut for loans backed by the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) was removed, setting the table for what should be an interesting presidential term for real estate policy. FHA loans tend to be a favorable option for those with limited financial resources. On a brighter note, wages are on the uptick for many Americans, while unemployment rates have remained stable and relatively unchanged for several months. The system is ripe for more home purchasing if there are more homes available to sell.

Current as of January 5, 2017. Figures shown may be different than previously reported. All data from CarolinaMLS. Report provided by the Charlotte Regional REALTOR® Association
10 Things To Do For Valentine’s Day

10 Things To Do For Valentine’s Day

10 Things to Do For Valentine's Day

Yes, the countdown is on once again. It’s actually been on for quite some time. No doubt, you noticed shortly after “New Years”, that Valentine’s Day “stuff” was rolling out in stores everywhere. Heart shaped boxes, plush animals holding hearts, heart shaped balloons and, yes, A LOT of heart shaped jewelry. It’s a common understanding, and expectation, that the ‘dealings’ of Valentine’s Day can cause some angst amongst men and women alike. Where do we eat? What is romantic enough? Will she like the environment? Is now the ‘right’ time to try something new? Well, after much deliberation, and in no particular order, here are 10 Things To Do for Valentine’s Day 2017!

Days Until Valentine's Day

Day(s)

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Hour(s)

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Ten

Fig Tree Restaurant


The comfortable yet elegant setting of the house creates a unique dining experience. Boasting five stunning dining rooms, expansive seating on the veranda and patio, as well as multiple grand fireplaces and a full service bar, everything about the aesthetics of the restaurant — from the original woodwork to the blooming fig trees will delight. The Fig Tree Restaurant is a trifecta of decadent meals, perfectly paired wines, and exceptional service.

Fig Tree Restaurant
1601 E 7th Street, Charlotte, NC 28204 | 704.332.3322

Fig Tree Restaurant

“This is a great place for a night out with a special Someone or with friends. The food is delicious. The staff is great; very friendly. The place itself is very charming and quaint.”

Nine

Chef Alyssa’s Kitchen


Cooking together makes such a romantic date and we will celebrate this evening of love with a delicious upscale dinner.

Chef Alyssa’s Kitchen
2104 South Blvd Inside Atherton Market, Charlotte, NC 28203 | 704-817-7568

Chef Alyssa’s Kitchen

“It really is a perfect date night, bring a bottle (or 2) of wine and get social with your table-mates.”

Eight

Queen’s Landing


The 93-foot luxury yacht provides a four-course chef crafted meal on Lake Norman. Unlike other lake tours she is a real yacht with luxurious features. “The Lady” has two enclosed floors, each with fully-equipped bars and an upper floor open balcony that provides a beautiful view of the lake. Come enjoy the relaxing setting and indulge in a truly classy yachting experience.

Queen’s Landing
1459 River Hwy, Mooresville, North Carolina | 704-663-2628

Queen's Landing

“Cruise Lake Norman with the “Love of your life” and treat yourself to an evening of music and comfort”

Seven

The Pump House


The Pump House is a multi-level, riverfront restaurant featuring two bars, including a rooftop bar, all with sweeping views of the beautiful Catawba river. Situated in the new Riverwalk development, the Pump House is an upscale, gourmet restaurant with a casual but elegant atmosphere.

The Pump House
575 Herrons Ferry Road, Rock Hill, SC | 803-329-8888

The Pump House

“Absolutely fabulous! I figured the food would be good but it ended up being better than that… it was amazing. Great atmosphere.”

Six

Mama Ricotta’s


The most romantic holiday is just around the corner. We invite you to spend a wonderful Valentine’s Day evening with Mama Ricotta’s. Chef Tom has put together a truly delectable menu that is sure to please.

Mama Ricotta’s
601 South Kings Drive Suite AA Charlotte, NC I 704-343-0148

Mama Ricotta's

“Wonderful meal and service as always. It’s one of the restaurants that I can count on for a great meal – consistency!”

Five

Sydney’s Martini and Wine Bar


At Sydney’s, their goal is to provide excellent customer service as well as delicious food and drinks. They have 30 hand-crafted martinis, a domestic and international wine list, several appetizing small plates, and delicious desserts. The space is ideal for groups, couples, and individuals. They also feature live music events during the week.

Trish Andrews performing live on Valentine’s Day Tuesday – Showtime 8pm

Sydney’s Martini and Wine Bar
401 North Tryon Street #104 Charlotte, NC I 704-503-9060

Sydney's Martini and Wine Bar

“I love the atmosphere and the band was amazing. The martinis were great. I would recommend this spot for a great evening and for a special event.”

Four

Southern Breezes Carriages


Romantic Horse Drawn Carriage Ride thru Uptown Charlotte with your Sweet Heart, 45 minute ride with pick up and drop off at your chosen location – Pick up location at Trade & Tryon St. Intersection.

Southern Breezes Carriages
Bridger.Medlin@frontier.com I 704-301-5111

Southern Breezes Carriages

“My husband and I went for a carriage ride after our anniversary dinner. Our driver was pleasant and informative without being the least bit intrusive. She was thoughtful enough to bring along an Amish lap quilt for us to use. We would have been quite frozen otherwise.”

Three

Studio Cellar


Paint and Sip Date Night at Studio Cellar! Couples painting created on 2 separate canvases but only complete when hung together. No skills needed. You’re walked you through it step by step. Beer and wine sold on premise. Special treats included.

Studio Cellar
1800 Camden Road Charlotte NC I 980-207-1671

Studio Cellar

“Just when I thought that I had done every creative thing I Charlotte I discovered this place.  Do freestyle art or take an inexpensive class.”

Two

The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time


Spend Valentine’s Day at the Belk Theater and experience the Theater together! This “dazzling” adaptation is the Tony Award-winning new play by Simon Stephens.

The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time
130 North Tryon St. Charlotte, NC I 704-372-1000

The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time

“One of the most fully immersive works ever to wallop Broadway”

One

Stagioni


Chef Andrew Dodd is planning a four-course meal for the occasion, including an antipasto course and options such as shrimp tortellini and a local pork chop with tomato jam and mushroom truffle ragout. Guests can finish the romantic evening with a passion fruit tart or a warm chocolate cake with hazelnut crema.

STAGIONI
715 Providence Rd. Charlotte, NC I 704-372-8110

Stagioni

“Enjoyed a fabulous meal here with my wife. Had the 3 Antipasti, Eggplant, Olives, and Ricotta Spread. Added the mortadella for good measure. All were fabulous.” 

Things To Do This Weekend! – January 27-29

Things To Do This Weekend! – January 27-29

Things To Do This Weekend!

So, it’s nearing the end of January. Across our country, there are A LOT of areas where people are curious (and scrambling) as to what they’ll do this weekend, particularly because of the weather and time of the year. However, in Metro-Charlotte, it’s looking like you’ll have the opportunity to stay inside, or go outside, and involve yourself with plenty of activity. Highs around 53 degrees and sunshine; Yes, we’ll take that. After all, you have a week ‘off’ from football, as most Americans will be watching the Super Bowl on February 5. So, this weekend is an ideal time to take advantage of some of these exciting things happening in our area. Maybe it’s been “one of those” weeks and you just need to laugh. Perhaps you’re in the mood to experience something new and pick up a new skill. Are your kids taking dance classes and you want to expose them to first-class professionals? Or,  do you just want to eat some good food; (don’t forget about RESTAURANT WEEK). The Queen City wants to open its arms to you and yours and provide some wonderful outings. Let’s take a look at just a few Things to do This Weekend!

ASC CONNECT WITH CULTURE DAY

Whether it’s a variety of arts or science and history experiences, this Saturday is your opportunity to join in the fun for FREE, at the ASC CONNECT WITH CULTURE DAY. Hands-on activities, demonstrations from today’s top artists, film techniques, and even a free instrument petting zoo. That’s right a petting zoo for instruments, where young children will get a hands-on introduction to the instruments of the orchestra; ALL FOR FREE! For families or groups of friends, the ASC CONNECT WITH CULTURE DAY will educate and inform, of all of the amazing sites and sounds, of our wonderful Charlotte – Mecklenburg area.

 ASC CONNECT WITH CULTURE DAY

QUEEN CITY COMEDY FESTIVAL

Sometimes you just need to take a deep breath, get away from the stresses and frustrations of life, “blow off some steam”, and LAUGH. This Friday, Saturday, and Sunday is just for you! 35 of the area’s most talented and funny performers will treat you to their wit, improv sketches, comedy shows and workshops at the QUEEN CITY COMEDY FESTIVAL. Whether you need that extra pick-me-up, or just want to experience some good ole’ fun and side-splitting humor, the folks at Acting Out Studios have a weekend of good times prepared.

QUEEN CITY COMEDY FESTIVAL

THE PIZZA PEEL

If it’s good food that you’re interested in, can you believe that THE PIZZA PEEL is celebrating their 3-year anniversary by giving YOU free food? They’re so excited to offer a free buffet, $3 select drafts, even letting you craft and create your own pizza. This round pie may just be an occasional quick meal for most of us, but for the crew at THE PIZZA PEEL, it’s a way of life. From 11 am – 2 pm on Saturday, why not step into their world and celebrate their wonderful contribution to our community.

THE PIZZA PEEL

What if you live outside the Charlotte area, (or want travel and take a short day trip)?

Breakout Lake Norman

If you go North, Lake Norman has so much to offer in the way of art, culture, and fun. One of which is “Breakout Lake Norman”, an interactive real life adventure game. You and your group will be locked in a themed room and have to navigate by using the elements of the room to solve a series of Puzzles, find clues, and escape the room within the 60-minute time limit. If the weather chills off a bit and you’d like to participate in a stirring and challenging indoor activity, then this ‘escape room’ experience will keep you on your toes and help you build some relationships along the way.

Breakout Lake Norman

Havana Nights

Likewise, if you head south, to Rock Hill, The Arts Council’s Annual Fundraising Gala, “Havana Nights” will be burning up the dance floor on Saturday night. You’ll find the finest cigars and craft beer, live music, heavy hors d’oeuvres, and a silent auction. If you just love to hear some fantastic tunes, watch others dance, or shake to the rhumba and the mambo yourself; the “Havana Nights” festivities will captivate you.

Havana Nights

These are just a few of the spotlight events taking place this weekend; so why not get out and enjoy all that Metro-Charlotte has to offer. Next week you can plan your football parties and anticipate a day ‘in’, but the last weekend in January 2017 has loads and loads of fun just waiting to happen.

Other exciting events to consider:

Arts and Entertainment
Genghis Khan Exhibit:
Discovery Place
BRAHMS vs. RADIOHEAD: Knight Theater at Levine Center for the Arts
“Innovative Works” Ballet: Patricia McBride & Jean-Pierre Bonnefoux Center for Dance

Food & Drink
Quinn’s Release Party: Great Wagon Road Distilling Company

 

Queen’s Feast : Charlotte Restaurant Week 2017

Queen’s Feast : Charlotte Restaurant Week 2017

Queens Feast : Charlotte Restaurant Week January 2017

There are certain words in our culture that invoke interest or excitement, particularly when they are paired together. Black Friday, Cyber Monday, Door-Buster, & Super-Saver all imply DEALS, SAVINGS, SALES, and, ultimately, MORE MONEY in your pocket. We can’t wait for these “events” to come our way because we feel that we can indulge in some things we may like and not feel “buyer’s remorse” afterward. Well, may I offer two more “pairs” that should delight your senses? QUEEN’S FEAST and RESTAURANT WEEK!

In the metro Charlotte area, these are synonymous with one another. They imply, no, guarantee deals, savings, and yes, more “dough” for a “rainy day”. This gift to all of us returns January 20-29, and your favorite restaurant very well may be on the list. 130 of the best restaurants in 9 counties, 3 courses, $30 to $35 per person (not including tax & gratuity); THAT’S IT! Think about it. How much would you normally pay for a 3-course meal, if you wanted to celebrate a special dinner occasion? New job, birthdays, anniversaries, or just-for-the-heck-of-it, the totals can escalate quickly. But not during Queen’s Feast. The price has already been set. All you have to do is make the tough decisions of: what appetizer you’d prefer, what delectable entrée you’ll enjoy, and which dessert to share (or not share).

How do you participate? I’m so glad that you asked! You could just arrive, but I’d recommended making your reservations ahead of time. If you wanted that 4K, Ultra HD, 70-inch television for $500, on Black Friday, there’s a good chance that you’d be one of the first in line! Maybe that’s an extreme example, but during Restaurant Week, seats will fill up, and time (and savory menus) will get away from you.

Steakhouses, Bistros, Fine Dining and Cultural Cuisines…if you have a taste for it, there’s a restaurant ready to serve your party and your palette. When you can combine those, that’s what truly makes Restaurant Week special. The memories, the delicious food journey, the anticipation of fun times together, and the overwhelmingly positive sense of an evening, and resources, well spent!

If you need to, call the babysitter today. If you’re able, work ahead a little this week, and cut out a little early next week. Call your girlfriends. Text that person you’ve not contacted in a while and reconnect over a delicious meal and some unforgettable conversation. The opportunities are endless, and it’s not every day that you can partake in such an event right in your own “backyard”.

De-stress, wind-down, take a deep breath and let the good vibes (and deals) come your way. After all, you’ll have to wait 10 more months for Black Friday. Let the feast begin.

For more information on the participating restaurants and what they’re offering, visit CharlotteRestaurantWeek.com.

Restaurants Participating in Queen’s Feast : Restaurant Week 2017