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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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