Charlotte, September 18, 2025
News Summary
Charlotte is poised for a vibrant weekend with various outdoor events, including the 61st annual Festival in the Park at Freedom Park and the ongoing Charlotte International Arts Festival. Families can enjoy free activities like the Thrift Pony’s night market and movie screenings, while music lovers can attend a concert by Parker McCollum. Sports fans will have plenty of options, including Major League Table Tennis and the Carolina Panthers game. With events appealing to diverse interests, Charlotte promises a weekend full of culture, sports, and community engagement.
Charlotte is set to be buzzing with excitement this weekend, hosting a series of outdoor events, festivals, and live music performances. From September 19 to 21, the Festival in the Park will return for its 61st annual celebration at Freedom Park, featuring local artists, vendors, and live music. Entry to this vibrant festival is free and will continue through Sunday.
Simultaneously, the Charlotte International Arts Festival is taking place throughout the month with over 200 events, both free and ticketed, highlighting the city’s dedication to the arts. Major events will occur daily, but specific times vary, providing ample opportunities for locals and visitors to enjoy.
For those seeking a unique evening experience, the Thrift Pony’s night market will be held at Camp North End’s Boileryard from 6 PM to 9 PM, also free of charge. Families are encouraged to visit Discovery Place Science, hosting “Science on the Rocks,” a kids-free event featuring hands-on science labs for a price of $22, running from 6 PM to 10 PM.
Additionally, sports enthusiasts can watch Major League Table Tennis at the Charlotte Convention Center this weekend, with ticket prices varying. The Charlotte Knights will face off against the Durham Bulls at Truist Field at 7:04 PM, with tickets starting at $22.
For music fans, Parker McCollum is performing live at Skyla Credit Union Amphitheatre at 7:30 PM, with tickets starting at $75. Community events include a trivia night on 2010s music at The Suffolk Punch from 7 PM to 9 PM, which is free to enter, as well as a retro party at Blinders Sports Lounge featuring ’90s to ’00s music for a cost of $0 to $5, starting at 9 PM.
An outdoor screening of the movie “Migration” will take place at Urban District Market from 7:30 PM to 9:30 PM, entry is free. Meanwhile, the 35th annual Latin American Festival CLT will celebrate at Ballantyne’s Backyard, beginning at 12 PM, with admission fees starting at $5.
Sports fans will also have the chance to see the Carolina Panthers face off against the Atlanta Falcons at Bank of America Stadium at 1 PM, with tickets starting at $58. For an alternative sporting experience, the NHRA 4-Wide Carolina Nationals at Charlotte Motor Speedway will kick off at 9 AM, with ticket prices varying.
On the cultural front, the gospel and grits brunch at 3rd & Fernwood serves from 11 AM, starting at $22.99, while a plentiful selection of activities also includes Yoga sessions at Urban District Market ranging from $5 to $15, and a drag queen funny bus tour around Charlotte starting at 3 PM, costing $50.
There will be artisan markets at Hinds’ Feet Farm in Huntersville from 10:30 AM to 4:30 PM offering food trucks, free entry to a pop-up market at Urban District Market from 12 PM to 5 PM, and various other events catering to diverse interests. Local vendors will be showcased through a noDahood Market at Divine Barrel Brewing and Crown Station from 12 PM, which is free to enter.
In summary, Charlotte is poised for a lively weekend filled with culture, sports, food, and community-led activities, ensuring that there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What dates is the Festival in the Park happening?
The Festival in the Park returns for its 61st annual celebration at Freedom Park from September 19 to 21.
Are there any free events this weekend in Charlotte?
Yes, there are several free events including the Festival in the Park, trivia night at The Suffolk Punch, and outdoor screenings of movies at various parks.
What are some of the paid events happening?
Paid events include Parker McCollum’s concert, the NHRA 4-Wide Carolina Nationals, and the ‘In the Heights’ show at the Carolina Theatre.
Key Features of Events in Charlotte This Weekend
| Event | Date & Time | Location | Entry Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Festival in the Park | Sept 19-21 | Freedom Park | Free |
| Thrift Pony’s Night Market | Sept 19, 6 PM – 9 PM | Camp North End | Free |
| Science on the Rocks | Sept 19, 6 PM – 10 PM | Discovery Place Science | $22 |
| Parker McCollum Concert | Sept 19, 7:30 PM | Skyla Credit Union Amphitheatre | Starting at $75 |
| Latin American Festival CLT | Sept 19, 12 PM | Ballantyne’s Backyard | Starting at $5 |
| Outdoor Movie Screening: “Migration” | Sept 19, 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM | Urban District Market | Free |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Metro Atlanta and North Georgia to Host Weekend Festivals
Charlotte Hosts Inaugural Panda Fest Amid Mixed Reviews
Panda Fest Returns to Atlanta for a Culinary Celebration
Atlanta Celebrates Historic 1 Millionth Soccer Fan Milestone
Additional Resources
- Axios: Things to Do in Charlotte This September Weekend
- Wikipedia: Charlotte
- Camden County: 2025 Freedom Festival
- Google Search: Freedom Festival
- Sahan Journal: Hmong International Freedom Fest 2025
- Google Scholar: Freedom Festivals
- WJCL: Freedom Rings Parade Music Festival
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Freedom Festivals
- ABC11: Juneteenth Jubilee NC 2025
- Google News: Freedom Festivals
Author: STAFF HERE ATLANTA WRITER
The ATLANTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAtlanta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Atlanta, Fulton 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 vibrant music festivals like Shaky Knees and Music Midtown, major cultural celebrations including Dragon Con and the Atlanta Film Festival, and iconic sporting events like the Peachtree Road Race. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce and the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, beverages, and retail that power the local economy such as Delta Air Lines, The Coca-Cola Company, and The Home Depot. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAugusta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
