The Best Festivals and Events in Charlotte

Charlotte’s festival calendar is packed with exciting events throughout the year, showcasing everything from live music and food to arts and cultural celebrations. If you're planning to visit the Queen City, be sure to check out these top festivals that celebrate the city’s diverse spirit.

Start your festival journey with the Charlotte International Arts Festival, held each fall. This event transforms the city into a living art exhibit, with performances, installations, and cultural experiences scattered throughout Uptown. Local and international artists showcase their work in public spaces, making it an interactive and immersive experience for all.

For music lovers, CarolinaFest is a must-attend event, usually held around Labor Day. This celebration of Carolina music features performances from a variety of genres, including rock, country, and jazz. The event typically culminates in an incredible fireworks show over the city’s skyline.

Foodies will enjoy the Charlotte Food & Wine Festival, a weekend-long celebration of the city’s thriving culinary scene. The festival features tastings from top chefs, cooking demonstrations, and wine pairings, allowing attendees to sample some of Charlotte’s finest culinary offerings.

The Charlotte Pride Festival & Parade is another highlight, attracting tens of thousands of attendees each summer. As one of the largest LGBTQ+ events in the Southeast, the festival features a lively parade, live music, and a variety of performances. It’s a vibrant and colorful event that celebrates diversity and inclusion in the city.

For beer lovers, Brewgaloo is the perfect festival. Held annually in the spring, it’s the largest craft beer festival in the Carolinas, offering over 100 local brews for attendees to sample.

Lastly, the Charlotte Film Festival is perfect for movie buffs. The festival showcases independent films from around the world, giving local filmmakers a chance to showcase their talent while bringing global cinema to the city.