There are certain holidays that bring about particular emotions. Valentine’s Day is for love and romance. Easter, Halloween, and Christmas all offer memories and traditions. Thanksgiving and New Years are times to think about blessings and opportunities to come. But there are holidays that are set aside to consider just “HOW WE GOT HERE” as a country, and remember the incredible sacrifices that have been made so that we may live in a free America. Memorial Day Weekend is a few days, every year, that we can anticipate cookouts, an extended weekend, time with family and friends, and celebrating all things USA! It’s a different feeling than July 4th, when we celebrate our nation’s independence. It’s taking time away from our burgers, hotdogs, and potato salad to realize that, without the efforts and devotion, from our service men and women, that we wouldn’t have the wonderful freedoms that we cherish. This week’s edition of “Things To Do This Weekend” shines the spotlight on friendship, culture, health and activity, fun, and fanfare. There are so many enjoyable events, that will attract all walks of life across the Charlotte Metro area, and it only involves taking the initiative to try something new! Revel in your extra time off on Monday. Make some special memories with family and friends. Consume just as many (or few) calories as you can at your bbq. But be sure to pause, and be thankful, for the unbelievable amount of commitment and sacrifice that it took for us to enjoy our holiday.
Race Fan Appreciation Night
May 26 – 9:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Don’t miss this RACE FAN APPRECIATION NIGHT at Dale Jr.’s Whisky River! This will be Dale’s last Coke 600 so make sure you stop by his bar and sign the GIANT BANNER they’ll have hanging in the bar to wish him GOOD LUCK! Prizes and giveaways with Miller Lites and light appetizers provided.
Queen City Sneaker Expo & 3on3 Basketball Tournament
May 27 – 2:00 PM
The Queen City Sneaker Expo & 3on3 Tournament is the #1 “Sneaker Culture” event in North Carolina. This is a BUY/SELL/TRADE event. Custom exclusive sneakers plus some of your retro or classic favorites. There is also a 3on3 tournament with cash prizes and trophies for the winners. Food, music, vendors, and great entertainment rounds off this must attend event. This is a FREE family friendly event.
Charlotte Asian Film Festival
May 27 – 8:00 PM
The Charlotte Asian Film Festival will be a joint effort of the local Asian-American community and others who see value in this novel addition to Charlotte’s cultural landscape. The Festival will be held as part of Asian Heritage Month celebration. The screenings will include full-length feature films, shorts and documentaries that provide a window on various facets of Asian society, culture and history both in the native lands and in the diaspora.
Old School Adult Board Game Night
You’ve never experienced an evening like this, with old school R&B and Hip Hop and Board Games. Who’s Got Game? Find Out at this adult board game night. Enjoy an evening of grownup company with Scrabble, Spades, Jenga, Twister, Connect Four, Taboo, and Dirty Minds while listening to R&B and Hip Hop music of the 80s and 90s. Games, music, food, and fun! You coulnd’t ask for a better night out. Must be 30+ to attend.
Enjoy live music and various handmade craft vendors! Studio Coffee will be serving specialty coffee beverages, muffins and pastries. D9 Brewing Company will also be selling beer and Mama’s Pizza Express is across the street selling pizza & Italian Food!
One of the country’s largest gospel music festivals is returning to Carowinds! Be blessed and inspired from award-winning gospel musicians including Kirk Franklin, The Mann Family, Tasha Cobbs, Travis Greene, and Dee-1.
This year’s Mint Hill Madness festival pairs new offerings with a lot of fan favorites. The 34th annual, family-friendly festival joins the traditional carnival rides, games, boardwalk-style food and arts and crafts vendors, this year’s festival will once again include an Artisan Tent featuring local artisans demonstrating their work. Live entertainment continues to be a big part of the festival and headliners for this year include: Da Throwback Band; Blue Monday and Satisfaction-Tribute to the Rolling Stones.
Fit ‘N’ Lit Latenight Event
Go out to the world’s leader in laser tag for a night of heart pumping fun! Get your summer body ready with LQ. They’ll have specialty missions, group workouts (aka DANCING) yoga, and snacks to keep you fueled. Wear headbands, sneakers and get your workout partners!
This year marks the 1st year of entertaining families and friends by bringing the Carolina Fair to Charlotte. Family-fun, all at an affordable price! Admission is FREE for kids 4 and under, $5 for Seniors (60+) and Kids 12 and under. Adult Admission is $10. Enjoy carnival rides and fair food – plus enjoy a variety of attractions FREE with your paid fair admission. Attractions include: Meet & Greet with Disney’s Peyton List, Wolf Shows, Wild West Shows, Comedy/Magician Shows, Marvelous Mutts, Tiger Shows and more!