Nov. 1
Brooke M. Bauer, Ph.D.: Becoming Catawba: Catawba Indian Women and Nation-building, 1540-1840
7:30 – pm | Nov. 1. Talk and book reading. Sloan Music Center Tyler-Tallman Recital Hall , Davidson College.
Friday, Nov. 3
8 pm | Nov. 3. For over two decades, Chatham County Line has embraced a heart-worn songwriting and rough-hewn Bluegrass style that has graced stages all across the U.S. as well as Europe, Scandinavia, Ireland and the United Kingdom. Tickets: $30-$45. Cain Center For The Arts, 21348 Catawba Ave., Cornelius.
Lecture: “Margaret Bonds: A Life in Music”
7:30 pm | Nov. 3. John Michael Cooper, Ph.D., professor of music and holder of the Margarett Root Brown chair in fine arts at Southwestern University, will discuss Bonds’ life and musical contributions, including works that have only recently been performed publicly for the first time. Greenhoot Recital Hall, located in the Sarah Belk Gambrell Center for Arts and Civic Engagement, Queens University of Charlotte, 1900 Selwyn Ave., Charlotte 28274.
Nov. 3-12
See website for schedule. Davidson Community Players, based on the hit film, “Elf Jr.” tells the story of Buddy, a human boy raised as a Santa elf. General admission, $14. Armour Street Theatre, 307 Armour St., Davidson.
Saturday, Nov. 4
11 am | Nov 4. Dine-In, drive-thru orders and pre-order pick up. Share with your friends, invite your neighbors and pre-order your bulk BBQ for your holiday gatherings, tailgates, sporting events or a quick weekly meal. Mt. Zion United Methodist Church, 19600 Zion Ave., Cornelius.
Trey McLaughlin & the Sounds of Zamar
8 pm | Nov. 4. Southern gospel. Tickets: $40-$60. Cain Center For The Arts, 21348 Catawba Ave., Cornelius.
Cornelius Police Department host Community Document Shredding Event
9-11 am | Nov. 4. The event may end prior to 11 am due to truck capacity, equipment failure or bad weather. There is a 4-box maximum per resident or business. Bring documents such as obsolete tax documents, financial statements, cancelled checks, insurance documents or business records. Student parking lot of William A. Hough High School, 12420 Bailey Road.
6-9 pm | Nov. 4. Join the Carolina Raptor Center to celebrate a connection with birds of prey for an annual fundraiser. The evening includes heavy appetizers, an open bar with beer and wine, a silent auction, raptor experiences, games and activities, and fun. Tickets $75. Raptor Trail at Quest, 6345 Sample Rd., Huntersville.
The 47th Annual Working Fingers Craft Show
10 am – 4 pm | Nov. 4. A day of holiday shopping of handmade items. Jewelry, home décor, clothing, baked goods, paintings, lotions and more. Charles Mack Citizen Center, 215 N Main St, Mooresville 28115.
SOLD OUT: 11 am – 4 pm | Nov. 4.
Performance: “Margaret Bonds: The Songs”
7:30 pm | Nov. 4. Guest artist Sequina DuBose (UNCC) and Jennifer Piazza-Pick (Queens), along with Queens students, will perform in the Queens Hall Parlors, offering attendees an intimate audience experience in the style of a modern salon concert. The music will be interspersed with recitations of poetry written by Langston Hughes and accompanied by visual interpretations of the music by graphic design students. A short lecture will precede the performance at 7 pm. Queens Hall Parlors, Queens University of Charlotte, 1900 Selwyn Ave., Charlotte 28274.
Saturday, Nov. 4- Sunday, Nov. 5
Sheepdog Trials and Dog Festival
10 am – 4 pm | Nov. 4-5.This annual event that showcases the skill and intelligence of sheepdogs as they compete in a variety of challenges. Pet vendors and dog adoption group will be onsite along with food and drink vendors. Tickets $6-$25. Historic Rural Hill, 4431 Neck Rd., Huntersville.
9:30 am – 5:30 pm | Nov 4-5. Pirates Weekend. Shop at the Fairhaven Village Marketplace and enter the Pirate Costume Contest. Contest at 3 pm for children, and an adult contest to follow immediately after. Tickets on sale now. Rain or shine; no pets. 16445 Poplar Tent Rd., Huntersville.
Sunday, Nov. 5
Trey McLaughlin & the Sounds of Zamar
4 pm Nov. 5. Southern gospel. Tickets: $40-$60. Cain Center For The Arts, 21348 Catawba Ave., Cornelius.
Performance: “Margaret Bonds: The Choral Music”
3 pm | Nov. 5. This event will feature Bonds’ choral works, including the southeastern premiere of her masterpiece, “Credo,” a passionate and moving cry for racial equality. Setting the poetry of W.E.B. DuBois, this work will finally make its way into mainstream choral repertoire. The concert will conclude with a new work by Queens University composition professor Zach Zubow, commissioned for the occasion. A short lecture will precede the performance at 2:30 p.m. Belk Chapel, Queens University of Charlotte, 1900 Selwyn Ave., Charlotte 28274.
Monday, Nov. 6
Panel on Religion and Politics
7 – 8:30pm | Nov. 6. Featuring Besir Ceka, King Associate Professor of Political Science; Susan Roberts, Professor of Political Science; and Douglas Ottati, Craig Family Distinguished Professor of Reformed Theology and Justice. The event is free and open to the public. Davidson College, C. Shaw Smith 900 Room, Alvarez Student Center.
Tuesdays, Nov. 7 – Tuesday, Nov. 14
Dance Without Limits
10-11 am | Tuesdays through Nov. 14. Designed to encourage and engage seniors of all mobility levels to embrace the magic of movement. Join weekly for free dance classes to explore a variety of fun genres and great music. Call 704-221-4787 to register or for more information. David B. Waymer Recreation Center, 14008 Holbrooks Rd., Huntersville.
Wednesday, Nov. 8
Creative Clay/ Pottery Senior Workshop
10:30 am-noon | Nov 8. Clayworks will lead participants in a hands-on clay workshop. Space is limited, so reserve your spot. Projects will be taken to Clayworks to be fired and glazed before being returned for pickup. Please allow 3 weeks for this process. David B. Waymer Recreation and Senior Center, 14008 Holbrooks Rd., Huntersville.
Nov. 9
Author Talks: Stories of the Latino South
6-8 pm | Nov. 9. Join authors Cecilia Marquez and Sarah McNamara to discuss their books Making the Latino South: A History of Racial Formation and Ybor City: Crucible of the Latina South. The conversation will focus on the stories and experiences they’ve gathered of Latinx people in the United States South. The VAPA Center, 700 N. Tryon, Charlotte.
Thursday, Nov. 9 – Sunday, Nov. 12
7:30 pm | Nov. 9-11; 2 pm | Nov. 12. A new ensemble drama based on the Jena Six; six Black students who were initially charged with attempted murder for a school fight after being provoked with nooses hanging from a tree on campus. This play by Dominique Morisseau examines the miscarriage of justice, racial double standards, and the crises in relations between men and women of all classes and, as a result, the shattering state of Black family life. For tickets, call the Union Box Office at 704-894-2135. $15 adult; $12 senior; $6 child. Davidson College.
Nov. 9-19
See website for hours and tickets. This year’s theme is Nauti or Nice! Showcasing buoys, boats and sandy beaches our nautical-inspired entrance will be filled with coastal Christmas charm. General admission $18 adults at the door and $8 children ages 6-12. $10 parking. The Park Expo and Conference Center, 800 Briar Creek Rd., Charlotte 28205.
Friday, Nov. 10
Davidson Veterans Day commemoration
11 am | Nov. 10. This year’s keynote speaker is General Stephen R. Lyons, retired four-star general of the United States Army and former Commander of the U.S. Transportation Command. 216 S. Main, in the horseshoe parking lot in front of the Public Safety Building, Davidson.
6 pm – Christmas Concert featuring the NC Baroque Orchestra Chamber Group with 7 pm lighting of a 25-foot Christmas tree. Ramah Presbyterian Church, 14401 Ramah Church Rd., Huntersville.
Saturday, Nov.11
11 am | Nov. 11. Join the Town of Cornelius and American Legion Post 86 for the annual Veterans Day Program honoring military veterans and those currently serving in our Armed Forces. Post Commander Gene McKinney will lead a ceremony that will include a guest speakers, 21-gun salute by American Legion Post 86 and patriotic music. Cornelius Veterans Monument at Rotary Plaza and the Cornelius Town Hall lawn; will move indoors in case of inclement weather.
9 am – 5 pm | Nov. 11 – Vendors & Crafts festival. 9 am– Breakfast with Santa ($5 donation). Ramah Presbyterian Church, 14401 Ramah Church Rd., Huntersville.
8 pm | Nov. 11. Country. Tickets: $35-$55. Cain Center For The Arts, 21348 Catawba Ave., Cornelius.
8th Annual Veterans Day Parade & Ceremony in Huntersville
10 am | Nov. 11. The Town of Huntersville, American Legion Post 321 & Sons of the American Legion Post 321 want you to line the streets to cheer on parade participants and then meet at Veterans Park for the 11 am ceremony to honor and remember those who serve and have served. Downtown Huntersville.
11 am – 1 pm | Nov. 11. Join the Town of Mooresville for the annual Veterans Parade. Thousands of people will line Main Street and McLelland Avenue. Those interested in participating in the parade may call Jim Kiger at 704-340-0281 or visit MooresvilleVeteransCelebration.com.
Traditional Series: Black Opry Revue
7:30 pm | Nov. 11. Feature three musicians: Julie Williams, a Duke alumna with a degree in public policy who is following her singer/songwriting passion in Nashville; Joe West, who has been heard by countless thousands of travelers to and through the Nashville International Airport, and Mel Washington, currently living in Charleston but formerly from Nashville. For tickets, please contact the Union Box Office at 704-894-2135. General public $22; seniors $17. Duke Family Performance Hall, Davidson College.
Creative Clay/ Pottery Family Workshop
10:30 am-noon | Nov. 11. Clayworks will lead participants in a hands-on clay workshop. Space is limited, so reserve your spot. Projects will be taken to Clayworks to be fired and glazed before being returned for pickup. Please allow 3 weeks for this process. David B. Waymer Recreation and Senior Center, 14008 Holbrooks Rd., Huntersville.
Through Nov. 11
An exhibit by Anna Grant Dean, who was recently a part of the Class of ’23 in ArtPop Street Gallery. Dean’s work demonstrates the creative process as well as the understanding of engineering. Her ability to install large scale sculpture demonstrates how creative the mind can be. Gallery Hours: Tuesday – Friday, 10 am – 4 pm. Cain Center for the Arts, Catawba Avenue, Cornelius.
9 am – 5 pm Monday – Friday; 9 a m – noon Saturday. The gallery show showcases functional, sculptural, and experimental work that utilizes clay as the primary material. A celebration of a variety of use and techniques. Cornelius Arts Center, 19725 Oak St, Cornelius.
Saturday, Nov. 11 – Sunday, Nov. 12
9:30 am – 5:30 pm | Nov. 11 – 12. Time Travelers’ Weekend.Come as you are or dress as your favorite time-traveling character inspired by movies, TV, comic books, science fiction, and/or fantasy. Book signings by popular local science fiction and fantasy authors. Children ages 5-12 are free with a donation of school supplies at the festival entry; ages 4 and younger are always free. Tickets on sale now. Rain or shine; no pets. 16445 Poplar Tent Rd., Huntersville.
Thursday, Nov. 13
7:30 pm | Nov. 13. Free and open to the public in-person and live streaming. Davidson College Presbyterian Church, 100 N. Main St., Davidson.
6:30 pm | Nov.13. CYO main Orchestra will be performing a classical Tchaikovsky concert. Check website for ticket information. Charles Mack Citizen Center, 215 N. Min St., Mooresville 28115.
Tuesday, Nov. 14
Dance Without Limits
10-11 am | Nov. 14. Designed to encourage and engage seniors of all mobility levels to embrace the magic of movement. Join weekly for free dance classes to explore a variety of fun genres and great music. Call 704-221-4787 to register or for more information. David B. Waymer Recreation Center, 14008 Holbrooks Rd., Huntersville.
Thursday, Nov. 16
Creative Clay/ Pottery Family Workshop
6:30-8 pm | Nov. 16. Clayworks will lead participants in a hands-on clay workshop. Space is limited, so reserve your spot. Projects will be taken to Clayworks to be fired and glazed before being returned for pickup. Please allow 3 weeks for this process. David B. Waymer Recreation and Senior Center, 14008 Holbrooks Rd., Huntersville.
Friday, Nov. 17
Creative Clay/ Pottery Senior Workshop
10- 11:30 am | Nov. 17. Projects will be taken to Clayworks to be fired and glazed before being returned for pickup. Please allow 3 weeks for this process. Northern Regional Recreation Center, 18121 Old Statesville Rd., Cornelius.
Friday, Nov. 17
26th annual Tree Lighting Ceremony in Concord
6-8:30 pm | Nov. 17. The annual tree lighting ceremony will take place in Rotary Square, located at the corner of Union Street S and Corban Avenue SW. There will be food trucks, a kids’ zone featuring inflatables, a rock wall, balloon artist, kids’ train and fireworks. Visitors will enjoy an illuminated vehicle display as they make their way from Rotary Square to Bicentennial Lot on Church Street to watch the fireworks. This year, visitors will be able to vote on which City department they feel had the most outstanding light display. Downtown Concord.
Friday, Nov. 17 – Sunday, Jan. 7
6-10 pm; closed Dec. 24. Speedway Christmas features 4 million LED Christmas lights strewn across a 4mile course, with displays and lights synchronized to Christmas-themed music. The show is open rain or shine. Tickets per carload start at $35. The infield Christmas Village is open Thursday-Sunday nights. Charlotte Motor Speedway, 5555 Concord Pkwy. South, Concord.
Saturday, Nov. 18
2-5 pm | Nov. 18. Join us for HEARTS Harvest featuring local historic farm lore and breathtaking nature paintings of acclaimed local artist Elizabeth Bradford. Cedar Grove and Hugh Torance House and Store, 8231 Gilead Grove Rd, Huntersville.
Mike Farris & the Fortunate Few
8 pm | Nov. 18. Award winning artist Mike Farris is shares his soul through Americana, rock and blues, and gospel who has begun to make a name for himself in the last 10 years or so for his fusion of soul and gospel. Tickets: $35-$55. Cain Center For The Arts, 21348 Catawba Ave., Cornelius.
Saturday, Nov. 18
2:30 pm | Nov. 18. The annual Concord Christmas Parade is one of the oldest and continuously running Christmas parades in North Carolina. The parade route will begin at the intersection of Church Street N. and Lake Concord Road, and continue over 2 miles along Church Street, ending at the intersection of Church Street and Corban Avenue.
Christmas tree lighting at LangTree Lake Norman
5-8 pm | Nov. 18. Sip hot chocolate. Kids can ask for their favorite face paintings and ride holiday choo-choo trains. Whisper secret wishes to Santa and watch the lighting of the giant Christmas Tree. LangTree Lake Norman, 401 Langtree Rd., Mooresville 28117.
The Lighting of Birkdale Village
2-7 pm | Nov. 18. Schedule of events:
2-4 pm. Activity Row. Take the family for a stroll along the Parkway for face painting, balloon art, caricatures, stage performances and more. DJ Micki Blendz will also take the stage playing festive tunes.
2-10 pm: Birkdale on Ice. Officially opens for the season.
2-7 pm: Birkdale Biergarten.Beverages from Hoptown Brewing, Royal Bliss Brewing Co. and Suffolk Punch Brewing at the Birkdale Biergarten located between Red Rocks Cafe and Fox and Hound.
4:30 pm: The Parade. Santa arrives in style alongside dancers, first responders, the Hopewell High School Marching Band, and more. Maney & LauRen from Kiss 95.1 will host the parade and tree lighting ceremony.
6 pm: Tree Lighting Ceremony Begins.
Parking information: Guests may park in any of the Village’s free parking decks, parking lots or use valet that will be located near Dick’s Sporting Goods. Parking will fill up quickly; carpooling or using a ride-share service is recommended to ensure a smooth arrival and departure.
Saturday, Nov. 18 – Sunday, Nov. 19
9:30 am – 5:30 pm | Nov. 18-19. The Final Huzzah! Chomp a turkey leg before Turkey Day. Children ages 5-12 are free with a donation of can food items at the festival entry (ages 4 and younger are always free. Tickets on sale now. Rain or shine; no pets. 16445 Poplar Tent Rd., Huntersville.
Saturday, Nov. 18 – Sunday, Jan. 28
3-10 pm Monday-Friday; 10 am -10 pm Saturday; noon-7 pm Sundays. Reservations are needed to ensure a skating time slot. Walk-ups are welcome as space permits. $18 per person includes skates (plus tax) for a 75-minute skate session; children 12 years old and younger $14 includes skates. The Plaza, Birkdale Village, Huntersville.
Sunday, Nov. 19
Give Thanks LKN
7 pm | Nov. 19. A community service with LKN churches and nonprofits. The service will feature a combined community choir. Composed of members of the 11 participating churches, the choir will be led by Julie Jones of Bethel Presbyterian Church with accompaniment on the piano by David Roach of First Baptist Church of Cornelius. A praise band led by Casey Whitt of Bethel Presbyterian will lead the audience in songs of thanksgiving. Donations of canned goods will be accepted. Cain Center For The Arts, 21348 Catawba Ave., Cornelius.
11 am-5 pm | Nov. 19. Explore three of the most historic sites in Huntersville: Historic Rural Hill, Hugh Torrance House and Store and the Old Huntersville Jail. Must have ticket; students $10 or adults $15.
3 pm | Nov. 19. The Queens Chamber Players. Pianist Paul Nitsch brings his ensemble to perform Schubert’s glorious “Trout” quintet, with violin, viola, cello, bass, and piano. Tickets: $20 adults; $15 seniors. St. Alban’s Episcopal Church, 301 Caldwell Ln., Davidson.
Tuesday, Nov. 21
3-5 pm | Nov. 21. Get your spots for the 1.5-mile parade route down Main Street filled with decorative floats, dance and entertainment groups, marching bands and merchants displaying their holiday best. Santa plans to join too – a parade tradition since 1944. Downtown Mooresville.
Wednesday, Nov. 22
Creative Clay/ Pottery Senior Workshop
10:30am- noon | Nov. 22. Clayworks will lead participants in a hands-on clay workshop. Space is limited, so reserve your spot. Projects will be taken to Clayworks to be fired and glazed before being returned for pickup. Please allow 3 weeks for this process. David B. Waymer Recreation and Senior Center, 14008 Holbrooks Rd., Huntersville.
Nov. 22 – Jan.1
Zootastic Park’s Wonderland of Lights
See website for schedule and cost. Admire the illumination of millions of holiday lights, crunch on s’mores and little ones can ride ponies. There’s a petting zoo, tiger and giraffe feeding, and pictures with Santa. Proceeds help care for resident animals every day of the year. Zootastic Park, 448 Pilch Rd., Troutman.
Friday, Nov. 25
4-7 pm | Nov. 25. Annual tree lighting around 6 pm. Attendees can enjoy community group performances, children’s activities, horse-drawn carriages rides, a model train display, food and drink, s’mores, and a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus. Cain Park and Cornelius Town Hall, Catawba Avenue.
11 am – 4 pm | Nov. 25. Lost Worlds Brewing, 19700-D One Norman Blvd., Cornelius.
Nov. 27 – Dec. 31
Downtown Holiday Light Spectacular
5:30 pm | Nov. 27-Dec. 31. Orchestrated light show set to music on the lawn at Town Hall, 413 N. Main St., Mooresville.
Wednesday, Nov. 29
8-9:30 pm | Nov. 29. Davidson College choirs, orchestra, Appalachian Ensemble, and Jazz Ensemble collaborate to bring you festive holiday favorites and more. For tickets, please contact the Union Box Office at 704-894-2135. Knobloch Campus Center, Duke Family Performance Hall, Davidson College.
Nov. 29 – Dec. 3
Check website for times | Nov. 29- Dec. 3. In the 1879 debut of Henrik Ibsen’s iconic A Doll’s House, Nora Helmer shocked audiences with her infamous “door slam heard around the world,” a bold decision that terminated her relationships with her husband and children but created space for a budding relationship with herself. In Part 2, Nora is back, knocking on that same door she slammed 15 years earlier. $25-$45. Cain Center For The Arts, Cornelius.
Nov. 30 – Dec. 2
Check website for times | Nov. 30 – Dec. 2. Based on a true story, Suh’s dark and poetic play explores the life of Afong Moy, the first documented Chinese woman to set foot on U.S. soil. Afong Moy was brought to America in 1834 to be put on display for a paying public who were mesmerized by her differences. For the next half-century, she performed across the Eastern United States for curious white people, showing them how she ate, what she wore, and the highlight of the event; how she walked with her tiny bound feet. Ages 14 and older. $25-$45. Cain Center For The Arts, Cornelius.
8:30 am (9:45 am sold out) | Dec. 2. Every table with children must be accompanied by an adult; table capacity is 6 people. $26 age 13 and older; $21 age 2-12; younger than 2 free. A portion of the ticket proceeds will be donated to Seasons of Giving LKN. Red Rocks Cafe at Birkdale Village, Huntersville.
Friday, Dec.1
7:30 pm | Dec. 1. Christmas concert and all CYO ensembles will be performing. Check website for ticket information. Lake Forest Church, Huntersville.
Saturday, Dec. 2
1 pm | Dec. 2. The parade route follows Main Street (Hwy. 115) from Davidson through Cornelius and ends at the intersection of North Main Street and Catawba Ave in Cornelius. it is approximately 2 miles.
8:15 – 9:15 am or 9:30 – 10:30 am | Dec 2. Tickets required and go on sale Nov. 2. Join Santa and his cheerful elves for a buffet-style breakfast.Ticket proceeds will benefit Seasons of Giving, a nonprofit that assists individuals who live alone rediscover the joy of social interaction through their participation in their program. Red Rocks Cafe, Birkdale Village, Huntersville.
6-9 pm | Dec. 2. Head to the waterfront at Lake Norman Yacht Club to see and cheer on the brightly illuminated boats and sailboats bedecked in their finest holiday décor. Bring an unwrapped new toy for the parade’s benefit for Toys for Tots – collection box at the yacht club, 297 Yacht Rd., Mooresville.
Through Dec. 2
Check website for times | Nov. 30 – Dec. 2. Based on a true story, Suh’s dark and poetic play explores the life of Afong Moy, the first documented Chinese woman to set foot on U.S. soil. Afong Moy was brought to America in 1834 to be put on display for a paying public who were mesmerized by her differences. For the next half-century, she performed across the Eastern United States for curious white people, showing them how she ate, what she wore, and the highlight of the event; how she walked with her tiny bound feet. Ages 14 and older. $25-$45. Cain Center For The Arts, Cornelius.
Sunday, Dec. 3
Noon – 2 pm | Dec. 3. Fun, pet-loving family event where your pup can enjoy a visit with Santa, you can shop for unique dog gifts and more. Robbins Park, West Catawba Avenue.
7-8:30 pm | Dec. 3. Annual Vespers service of lessons and carols is a time-honored tradition. The traditional candlelight worship service features choral music and scripture readings by campus leaders reflecting upon the hope and promise of Christ’s birth in the Christmas season. Special guests include the Davidson College Brass Quintet and the Tower Ringers handbell choir. Free and open to the public. Davidson College Presbyterian Church Sanctuary, Davidson.
Through Dec. 3
Check website for times | Nov. 29- Dec. 3. In the 1879 debut of Henrik Ibsen’s iconic A Doll’s House, Nora Helmer shocked audiences with her infamous “door slam heard around the world,” a bold decision that terminated her relationships with her husband and children but created space for a budding relationship with herself. In Part 2, Nora is back, knocking on that same door she slammed 15 years earlier. $25-$45. Cain Center For The Arts, Cornelius.
Wednesday, Dec. 6
6:30-8:30 pm |Dec. 6. Join the stars of auto racing at the 25th annual Stocks for Tots. This fun and fundraising event is your chance to mingle with motorsport greats, get autographs, and make a difference in the lives of children. Net proceeds benefit local child abuse prevention efforts. Purchase tickets and get more info by emailing info@ncarhof.com or calling 704-663-5331. 215 N. Main St, Mooresville.
Creative Clay/ Pottery Senior Workshop
10:30am- noon | Dec. 6. Clayworks will lead participants in a hands-on clay workshop. Space is limited, so reserve your spot. Projects will be taken to Clayworks to be fired and glazed before being returned for pickup. Please allow 3 weeks for this process. David B. Waymer Recreation and Senior Center, 14008 Holbrooks Rd., Huntersville.
Dec. 6-25
5:30 – 9 pm | Dec. 6-25. This dynamic projected light show has turned the corner of Broad St. & Center Ave. into a dazzling holiday lightscape. Downtown Mooresville
Thursday, Dec. 7
The Menorah Lighting at Birkdale Village
5:30 pm | Dec. 7. Join Chabad of Lake Norman for a Chanukah celebration. Guests are invited to the Parkway to celebrate Chanukah with a traditional Menorah lighting ceremony, children’s crafts, donuts, latkes gelt and more. Birkdale Village Huntersville.
Friday, Dec. 8
7:30 pm | Dec. 8. Rosanne Cash has released 15 albums that have earned four Grammys. She is one of only a handful of women to be elected to the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame. Queens University of Charlotte, 1900 Selwyn Ave., Charlotte 28274.
6-8 pm | Dec. 8. Listen to strolling carolers. Visit Christmas Tree Lane and hop on horse-drawn wagon rides. Sweet holiday treats and hot chocolate keep patrons warm along Broad and Main streets. Downtown Mooresville.
Saturday, Dec. 9
5:30 – 7:30 pm | Dec. 9. The town fills the lawn with candy canes to be found and enjoyed. Children also enjoy stories read by Santa Claus, crafts, hot chocolate and more. Town Hall, Catawba Avenue, Cornelius.
2-5 pm | Dec. 9. Featuring David Fleming, author of “Who’s Your Founding Father?” Cedar Grove and Hugh Torance House and Store, 8231 Gilead Grove Rd., Huntersville.
8 pm | Dec. 9. Led by three-time Grammy nominee Kevin Sucher, The Docksiders take you to a time machine to the year 1981. Tickets: $30-$50. Cain Center For The Arts, 21348 Catawba Ave., Cornelius.
2-3 pm | Dec 9. Have you completed the same puzzles more than once? Ready for some new ones? Bring your gently used puzzles and leave with new-to-you puzzles. Puzzles must be 100+ pieces without any missing pieces. Children’s puzzles must be swapped for children’s puzzles. Cornelius Library, Catawba Avenue.
A Classic Christmas in Downtown Mooresville
5-9 pm | Dec. 9. Santa visits, wagon rides, carolers, ice skating, awesome shopping and dining, hot cocoa and treats, two life-sized snow globes, WinterLights Alive, live musical performancers and Christmas vendor village and more. Main & Broad streets, downtown Mooresville.
Monday Dec. 11
7:30-9 pm | Dec. 11. Students performing an evening of chamber music accompanied by Tomasz Robak. Free and open to the public. Sloan Music Center Tyler-Tallman Recital Hall, Davidson College.
Thursday, Dec. 14
7:30-9 pm | Dec. 14. The Davidson College Jazz Combos present an evening celebrating the jazz greats. Free and open to the public. Sloan Music Center Tyler-Tallman Recital Hall, Davidson College.
Friday, Dec. 15
6-8 pm | Dec. 15. Listen to strolling carolers. Visit Christmas Tree Lane and hop on horse-drawn wagon rides. Sweet holiday treats and hot chocolate keep patrons warm along Broad and Main streets. Downtown Mooresville.
Creative Clay/ Pottery Senior Workshop
10- 11:30 am | Dec. 15. Projects will be taken to Clayworks to be fired and glazed before being returned for pickup. Please allow 3 weeks for this process. Northern Regional Recreation Center, 18121 Old Statesville Rd., Cornelius.
Saturday, Dec. 16
5th Annual Lake Norman Lighted Christmas Boat Parade
5:30 pm | Dec.16. Starting at Blythe Landing then headed to Ramsey Creek, we have the finale at the Duke Energy Explorium with food trucks and Santa. Little Smiles will collect toys to be shared with the children of the Levine Children’s Cancer Center.
8 pm | Dec. 16. Sons of Serendip, the Billboard charting classical-crossover quartet, return for a holiday engagement. $35-$55. Cain Center, Cornelius.
North Carolina Christmas Festival
1-5 pm | Dec. 16. Enjoy free pictures with Santa Claus, a free toy giveaway for the kids, free gift wrapping, Christmas coloring & word search, ornament decoration and more. Pro Tip: Show your holiday cheer by wearing family ugly Christmas sweaters. Admission is free. Parking $8 per car, credit or debit card only. Cabarrus Arena & Events Center, 4751 State Highway 49, Concord.
Creative Clay/ Pottery Family Workshop
6:30 pm- 8 pm | Dec. 16. Clayworks will lead participants in a hands-on clay workshop. Space is limited, so reserve your spot. Projects will be taken to Clayworks to be fired and glazed before being returned for pickup. Please allow 3 weeks for this process. David B. Waymer Recreation and Senior Center, 14008 Holbrooks Rd., Huntersville.
Wednesday, Dec. 20
Creative Clay/ Pottery Senior Workshop
10:30 am-noon | Dec. 20. Clayworks will lead participants in a hands-on clay workshop. Space is limited, so reserve your spot. Projects will be taken to Clayworks to be fired and glazed before being returned for pickup. Please allow 3 weeks for this process. David B. Waymer Recreation and Senior Center, 14008 Holbrooks Rd., Huntersville.
Friday, Dec. 22
Holiday instrumental and folk by three-time Grammy and seven-time CMA Award winner Mark O’Connor, who melds the influences of French jazz and New American classical music.Tickets: $30-$50. Cain Center For The Arts, 21348 Catawba Ave., Cornelius.
Thursday, Dec. 28
Creative Clay/ Pottery Family Workshop
6:30 pm- 8 pm | Dec. 28. Clayworks will lead participants in a hands-on clay workshop. Space is limited, so reserve your spot. Projects will be taken to Clayworks to be fired and glazed before being returned for pickup. Please allow 3 weeks for this process. David B. Waymer Recreation and Senior Center, 14008 Holbrooks Rd., Huntersville.
Monday, Jan 1
10 am – 1 pm | Jan. 1. Celebrate Hogmanay, a Scottish New Year’s celebration steeped in centuries of rich history. The event is free to attend, but registration is required, and donations are encouraged. Guests can enjoy a warm bowl of vegetable soup catered by Savory Moments and are invited to bring canned goods to donate to Caterpillar Ministries, a local non-profit organization that helps those in need in our community. You can also bring a picnic lunch to enjoy with your friends and family. At First Footin’, attendees will have the opportunity to learn more about this ancient Scottish tradition through a guided walk around the property. They will hear stories about the history of Rural Hill, which dates back to the 18th century. Historic Rural Hill, 4431 Neck Rd., Huntersville.
Saturday, Jan. 6
4-6 pm | Jan. 6. Join the Davidson Lands Conservancy to celebrate its success in 2023. Donors, volunteers and community partners are invited to enjoy food, drink, live music and door prizes during a recap of the positive gains DLC has made in the areas of conservation, greenways, tree plantings and wildlife preservation. Hurt Hub, Davidson.
Sunday, Jan. 14, 2024
10:30 am | Jan. 24. Presented by Clayworks Inc. Friends and families (children aged 5+) are welcome to a Creative Clay Workshop. Thanks to the ASCs Culture Blocks Program, a teaching artist from Clayworks will help participants with their projects. Projects will be taken to Clayworks to be fired and glazed before being returned for pickup at Waymer Recreation. Please allow 3 weeks for this process. David B. Waymer Recreation Center, 14008 Holbrooks Rd., Huntersville.
Thursday, Jan. 15
7:30 pm | Jan. 15. Free and open to the public in-person and live streaming. Davidson College Presbyterian Church, 100 N. Main St., Davidson.
Jan. 21
3 pm | Jan. 21. Alicia Chapman, professor of oboe at Appalachian State University, will play oboe and English horn and be joined by her friends on organ and baritone voice.Tickets: $20 adults; $15 seniors. St. Alban’s Episcopal Church, 301 Caldwell Ln., Davidson.
Saturday Jan. 27
6-9 pm | Jan. 27. A celebration of Scottish heritage will feature a three-course dinner and one free pour of Scotch whisky for the toast to the immortal memory of Robert Burns. Guests are encouraged to come dressed in their best tartan and kilts. Tickets $75-$150. Historic Rural Hill, 4431 Neck Rd., Huntersville.
• Send your event information to corneliustoday@gmail.com. Deadline is the 15th of the month for the print calendar; one week in advance for online/newsletter calendars.