The weather is cooling down, fall is in the air, and pumpkins are everywhere. Sure, it’s football weather and nearly sweater weather. But it’s also a great time to get the whole family together for fun at Charlotte-area festivals. Here are seven to check out in October and November!
THE GREAT PUMPKIN FEST
Head over to Carowinds between now and October 30 for The Great Pumpkin Fest. Planet Snoopy becomes even more fun for the whole family. Enjoy rides, shows, interactive displays, and plenty of food.
CAROLINA RENAISSANCE FESTIVAL
The Carolina Renaissance Festival takes place over eight weekends starting October 1 and running through November 20 in Huntersville, NC. The Festival goes on rain or shine, and visitors are encouraged to enjoy the festivities all day long. You’ll find plenty of events such as jousting competitions, comedy shows, and an artisan market featuring local arts and crafts. Tickets cost $12 to $25 and can be purchased on the day you arrive.
CHARLOTTE SCHOOL FAIR
Join Charlotte Parent and Charlotte Magazine on October 7 to the only place in Charlotte where you can meet representatives from the best public and private schools in Charlotte. They’re all here for the Charlotte School Fair and ready to meet with parents one-on-one. Bring the kids too and enjoy food trucks, free museum admission, giveaways, and much more. The fair will be held at BB&T Ballpark from noon to 3:00 p.m. Admission is free.
HOLA CHARLOTTE
Come out for fun and food at Hola Charlotte on October 7 at the Levine Museum of the New South. Celebrate Latin American culture in Charlotte with good food, great music, authentic folkloric dances, and much more. Admission is free.
UNC CHARLOTTE INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL
The UNC Charlotte International Festival at the Barnhardt Student Activity Center celebrates more than 50 cultures. This year’s event is set-up in a marketplace atmosphere with colorful booths staffed by UNC Charlotte international students and members of Charlotte’s international community. The event features art, crafts and costumes from each participating country. Many booths offer international food for sale so you can experience new flavors and cultures from around the world. Admission and parking are free.
CAROLINA BALLOONFEST
Enjoy a weekend of hot air balloons at the Carolina BalloonFest from October 20 to October 22. Two balloon launches with 50 balloons taking flight are scheduled each day. You can also experience tethered balloon rides and a walk-in balloon. If you want to have fun on the ground, enjoy beer and wine tastings, live music, artists booths, plus a Kids’ Zone and magicians for the kids. The event takes place at the Statesville Regional Airport. Admission costs between $5 and $30.
DAY OF THE DEAD/DIA DE MUERTOS FESTIVAL
Presented in partnership with the Latin American Coalition, the Levine Museum of the New South brings you the Day of the Dead/Día de Muertos Festival on October 29. This family-friendly festival celebrates the traditional Mexican holiday by featuring altars, music and dance performances, traditional foods, sugar skull workshops, and arts and crafts. Admission is free.
Enjoy the fall weather with the entire family every weekend! It’s a great way to spend quality time together and explore the Charlotte area.