Charlotte, NC, September 13, 2025
News Summary
This weekend, Charlotte hosts a variety of events catering to all tastes, from Broadway shows like Beetlejuice the Musical at the Belk Theater to cultural festivities such as Panda Fest at Ballantyne’s Backyard. Families can enjoy the Charlotte Brunch Festival and the Lowcountry Culture Festival, while thrill-seekers can visit SCarowinds for Halloween attractions. With concerts featuring Nelly and Ja Rule, and free events like Bands, Brews & BBQ, there’s something for everyone in the Queen City.
Charlotte is bursting with exciting events this weekend, from Broadway musicals to cultural festivals and musical performances. Residents and visitors alike can enjoy a variety of activities from September 12 through September 14, 2025, with something for everyone to indulge in.
Beetlejuice the Musical at Belk Theater
The highly anticipated Beetlejuice the Musical will be presented at the Belk Theater, running from Thursday to Sunday. This Broadway adaptation of Tim Burton’s classic film includes new songs, tricks, and treats that promise to entertain audiences. Tickets for this engaging show start at $39.76.
Panda Fest at Ballantyne’s Backyard
Food lovers can head to Panda Fest, one of the largest outdoor Asian food festivals in the country, running Friday to Sunday. Attendees can explore over 200 Asian street food vendors and enjoy cultural performances. Admission starts at $14 and includes two free gifts, making this a perfect event for families and food enthusiasts.
SCarowinds Opening
SCarowinds, Carolina’s premier Halloween event, kicks off this weekend at Carowinds amusement park, featuring five mazes and four scare zones. A new attraction, The Conjuring: Beyond Fear, promises to delight thrill-seekers. Admission starts at $55, with events running through November 2.
Charlotte Brunch Festival at The Iron District
On Saturday, from noon to 4 p.m., the Charlotte Brunch Festival will take place at The Iron District. This event will celebrate brunch with gourmet bites, live music, and artistic installations. Tickets are available for $7, while children aged 12 and under can enter for free.
Lowcountry Culture Festival at Shoppes at University Place
Also on Saturday, the Lowcountry Culture Festival at Shoppes at University Place will showcase food and crafts from South Carolina’s coast. Running from 1 to 6 p.m., tickets will start at $54 and include unlimited food and drink samples.
Jollof Festival at Johnson C. Smith University
Saturday will see the Jollof Festival focusing on the popular West African dish, Jollof rice. Scheduled from 3 to 8 p.m., admission starts at $24.86, making it a fantastic opportunity for culinary enthusiasts to experience traditional flavors.
Bands, Brews & BBQ in Downtown Mooresville
From 4 to 9 p.m. on Saturday, BBQ fans can enjoy Bands, Brews & BBQ in Downtown Mooresville. This event will feature a variety of food trucks and live performances by headlining bands Night Ranger and Jefferson Starship. Admission is free, making it an accessible family outing.
CLTure Day + Night Market at The Iron District
The CLTure Day + Night Market will celebrate Charlotte’s diverse Asian community on Sunday at noon. Admission is free and visitors can expect various food and art experiences.
Nelly with Ja Rule Concert at PNC Music Pavilion
R&B and hip-hop fans will not want to miss the concert featuring Nelly and Ja Rule at PNC Music Pavilion on Sunday at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are available starting at $54.50.
Other Events
- University City Food Truck Friday: A food truck event at Armored Cow Brewing from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Friday.
- Charlotte FC vs. Inter Miami: A football match will take place at Bank of America Stadium on Saturday at 7:30 p.m.
- Mecktoberfest at OMB LoSo: Featuring competitions and German food, running through Sunday with free admission.
- Charlotte International Arts Festival: Ongoing events throughout September celebrate global arts and culture.
- Various Markets and Community Events: Many local pop-up markets are ongoing to support community artisans and local businesses.
With such a diverse range of events this weekend, Charlotte offers an opportunity for locals and tourists to experience music, food, and culture, ensuring an unforgettable time in the Queen City.
FAQ
- What events are happening in Charlotte this weekend?
- Events include Beetlejuice the Musical, Panda Fest, SCarowinds Opening, and more.
- Are there any free events this weekend?
- Yes, Bands, Brews & BBQ and CLTure Day + Night Market are free to attend.
- What is the admission fee for the Charlotte Brunch Festival?
- Admission is $7, while children 12 and under can enter for free.
- Where can I find Asian street food vendors?
- At the Panda Fest in Ballantyne’s Backyard, which has over 200 vendors.
Key Features of Events
| Event | Date and Time | Location | Admission Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Beetlejuice the Musical | Thursday to Sunday | Belk Theater | Starts at $39.76 |
| Panda Fest | Friday to Sunday | Ballantyne’s Backyard | Starts at $14 |
| SCarowinds Opening | Friday, ongoing through November 2 | Carowinds | Starts at $55 |
| Charlotte Brunch Festival | Saturday, noon to 4 p.m. | The Iron District | $7, free for children 12 and under |
| Lowcountry Culture Festival | Saturday, 1 to 6 p.m. | Shoppes at University Place | Starts at $54 |
| Jollof Festival | Saturday, 3 to 8 p.m. | Johnson C. Smith University | Starts at $24.86 |
| Bands, Brews & BBQ | Saturday, 4 to 9 p.m. | Downtown Mooresville | Free |
| CLTure Day + Night Market | Sunday, noon | The Iron District | Free |
| Nelly with Ja Rule Concert | Sunday, 7:30 p.m. | PNC Music Pavilion | Starts at $54.50 |
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Additional Resources
- WBTV: 9 Things to Do in Charlotte This Weekend
- Wikipedia: Charlotte, North Carolina
- Axios: Weekender things to do in Charlotte
- Google Search: Charlotte events
- WCNC: Charlotte weekend events
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Charlotte
- Charlotte Parent: Things to do over Labor Day Weekend
- Google News: Charlotte festivals
- Kiss 95.1: Things to Do in Charlotte This Weekend
- QC News: Festivals and Sporting Events in Charlotte
Author: HERE Charlotte
The CHARLOTTE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECharlotte.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charlotte, Mecklenburg County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Lovin' Life Music Festival, Charlotte Pride festival, and major sporting tournaments at Bank of America Stadium. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charlotte Regional Business Alliance and Foundation for the Carolinas, plus leading businesses in finance and entertainment that power the local economy such as Bank of America and NASCAR. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HEREGreensboro.com, HERERaleigh.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
