Longer days and warmer weather mean more opportunities for family fun. Here are 10 events around Charlotte, to add to your summer bucket list. Note: Inclusion in this list does not imply endorsement by Duke Energy.
1. Taste of Charlotte
When: June 10-12
Where: Uptown Charlotte (Tryon Street between Stonewall and Trade)
What: Taste more than 100 samples from area restaurants while enjoying live music on two stages, interactive children’s activities and street performances. Admission is free.
For more details, visit the Taste of Charlotte website.
2. Beyond Rubik’s Cube
When: June 11-Sept. 5
Where: Discovery Place
What: Beyond Rubik's Cube is the world's first exhibition all about the Rubik's Cube puzzle. Explore the origins of the Rubik's Cube through interactive exhibits. Create your own unique 3D puzzles, interact with Rubik's Cube experts, control a giant Rubik's Cube and more.
For more details, visit the Discovery Place website.
3. Charlotte Symphony Summer Pops Community Concert
When: June 17
Where: McGuire Nuclear Station’s EnergyExplorium
What: Pack a picnic and experience a special evening of music along the shores of Lake Norman. The symphony will perform its Summer Spirit series which includes classics, as well as popular movie scores from Harry Potter, Superman, Batman and The Wizard of Oz. Music starts at 8:15 p.m. Admission and parking are free.
For more details, visit the EnergyExplorium website.
4. Great American Camp Out
When: June 25-26
Where: Anne Springs Close Greenway What: Experience a night of fun under the stars at the Adventure Center on the Anne Springs Close Greenway. Activities include guided hikes, kayaking, fishing, games and a hot dog dinner over the campfire complete with s’mores. Camping equipment is not provided. Registration is required.
For more details, visit the Greenway’s website.
5. The Wizard of Oz
When: July 5-10
Where: Belk Theater and Blumenthal Performing Arts Center What: This new production of The Wizard of Oz is an enchanting adaptation of the all-time classic. The production contains beloved songs from the movie score, all your favorite characters plus a few surprises.
For more details, visit the Blumenthal Performing Arts website.
6. Eats, Beaks and Brews
When: July 7- Aug. 11
Where: The Carolina Raptor Center
What: Head to the Raptor Center Thursdays from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. to try a new food truck and listen to live music. Bring the kids for a walk on the Raptor Trail and other family-themed activities.
For more details, visit the Carolina Raptor Center website.
7. KidsFest
When: July 16-17
Where: Carowinds What: KidsFest will feature super-fun interactive games and activities designed just for kids and their families. Music from popular kids’ group Choo Choo Soul will rock the house.
For more details, visit the Carowinds website.
8. Movies@McGuire – “Star Wars: The Force Awakens”
When: July 29
Where: McGuire Nuclear Station’s EnergyExplorium
What: Watch the seventh episode of the Star Wars saga under the stars. Will rule of the galaxy fall into the hands of the evil First Order? Find out! Parking and admission are free. Movie starts at 8:30 p.m.
For more details, visit the EnergyExplorium website.
9. Festival X
When: Aug. 13
Where: US National Whitewater Center What: Celebrate 10 years with U.S. National Whitewater Center live music, a cornhole tournament and outdoor adventure. Parking is $5 per car. Festival admission is free.
For more details, visit the Whitewater Center website.
10. Catawba Nuclear Station’s Community Grillfest
When: Aug. 20, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Where: Catawba Park
What: Catawba Nuclear Station neighbors are invited to enjoy free BBQ and bluegrass with a carnival theme. Bring the whole family to play games, win prizes and sample cool summer treats.
For more details, contact Catawba Nuclear Station at (803)701-3600.