Nov. 30: Light Up Cornelius
Friday, Nov. 1
7:30 pm | Nov. 1. Tammy Pescatelli brings brassy sexiness with a bold voice of witty sarcasm to her audiences, holding her own on the topics of sports, television, dating and family life using tongue-in-cheek humor. Tickets: $25-45. Cain Center for the Arts, Catawba Avenue.
Nov. 1 – Nov. 10
Connie Company Shows: ‘Matilda JR, The Musical’
See website for schedule. Matilda has astonishing wit, intelligence and special powers! She’s unloved by her cruel parents but impresses her schoolteacher, the highly loveable Miss Honey. Matilda’s school life isn’t completely smooth sailing; however, the school’s mean headmistress, Miss Trunchbull, hates children and just loves thinking up new punishments for those who don’t abide by her rules. But Matilda has courage and cleverness in equal amounts, and could be the school pupils’ saving grace. All ages. Tickets: $15 plus tax/fees. Armour Street Theatre, 307 Armour St., Davidson.
Saturday, Nov. 2
11 am. Dining room and drive-thru open. Pre-order open Sept. 16 – Oct. 25. BBQ will be sold by the pound pre-packaged and cooled in 1 pound containers (sauce is included) at $12 per pound. Slaw will be sold by the pint at $5 per pint. Plates available in dining room. Mt. Zion United Methodist Church, 19600 Zion Ave., Cornelius.
Maurice J. Norman presents: Don’t Lose Heart
7 pm | Nov. 2. Don’t Lose Heart is poetry in motion, centered on the individuals who are ever-present but often overlooked until they’re gone. The people we’ve deemed the furniture of our small towns, perched in atheir rocking chairs or tending to their tulips. The walking time machines and living memory keepers, who have helped weave the social fabrics of our local communities. Maurice J. Norman, accompanied by a live quintet from the Charlotte Strings Collective, invites you to experience and immortalize local history, as recounted by those who built its foundations. Tickets $20. Cain Center for the Arts, Catawba Avenue.
Birds & Bews: Fall for Raptors
3:30-6:30 pm Nov. 2. $75 tickets includes admission, beer, cider, seltzer and wine from 14 local vendors while getting nose-to-beak with avian ambassadors along the Raptor Trail. Live music, food stations, bird programs. Carolina Raptor Center, 6000 Sample Rd., Huntersville.
3-9 pm | Nov. 2. Live music. Lost Worlds Brewing, 19700 One Norman Blvd., Cornelius.
10 am – 4 p | Nov. 2. Discover treasures for every taste and interest, from jewelry and home décor to clothing, baked goods, paintings, lotions and more. Admission free. Charles Mack Citizen Center, 215 N. Main St., Mooresville.
9 am – 1 pm Nov. 2. Trucks, tractors, construction vehicles, candy, giveways and more. Halloween costumes are encouraged. Low sensory: 9 to 10:30 a.m. (no sirens, flashing lights, etc.). Free admission; $8 parking. Cabarrus Arena & Events Center, Concord.
6:30-9:30 pm | Nov. 2. Take part in an authentic ghost hunt of the building and grounds (weather permitting) using real investigative tools led by members of the Charlotte Area Paranormal Society (CAPS). Limited to 12 guests, 12 and older. Tickets $25 in advance. Hugh Torance House and Store, 8231 Gilead Rd., Huntersville.
Saturday, Nov. 2 – Sunday, Nov. 3
Sheepdog Trials & Dog Festival
9 am – 5 pm Nov. 2 and 10 am – 4 pm Nov. 3. Annual event that showcases the incredible skill and intelligence of sheepdogs as they compete in a variety of challenges. $6-$28. Pet vendors and dog adoptions. Historic Rural Hill, 4431 Neck Rd., Huntersville.
Sunday, Nov. 3
2-4 pm | Nov. 3. Taster? Judge? Sampler? Just a regular chili lover? – All the above are welcome. Tickets $7. sample the homemade chili concoctions of our esteemed entrants. Lost Worlds Brewery, 19700 One Norman Blvd., Cornelius.
Monday, Nov. 4
Tickets go on sale today for Saturday, Dec. 7, event at Red Rocks Cafe, Birkdale Village, Huntersville. Two seatings: 8:30-9:30 am or 9:45 am – 10:45 am. Sells out quickly.
7:30 pm | Nov. 4. Now Are the Foxes brings an unscripted, highly energetic, audience interactive comedy experience. Tickets $20. Armour Street Theatre, 307 Armour St., Davidson.
Taylor Marino
Davidson College Concert Series: Mozart, Webern and Haydn
7:30 pm | Nov. 4. Taylor Marino, principal clarinet with the Charlotte Symphony Orchestra joins Chamber Music For All to perform Mozart’s charming Clarinet Quintet in A Major, K. 581. Also featured are Anton Webern’s lyrical and brooding Langsamer Satz and Haydn’s chipper String Quartet in G major op. 77, no. 1. For tickets, call 704-894-2135. $25 adult; $22 senior; $10 child. Tyler-Tallman Hall – Davidson College.
Wednesday, Nov. 6
Traditional Series: Larry and Joe
7:30 pm | Nov. 6. a concert focused on Latin/Appalachian connections, with the great duo of Larry Bellorin and Joe Troop, known simply as Larry and Joe. Joe Troop, a Grammy-nominated Old-time and Bluegrass banjoist who spent over a decade in South America exploring Appalachian and South American connections, has joined with Larry Bellorin, a Venezuelan master on guitar, cuatro, and harp. $25 adult; $19 senior; $10 child; tickets required at 704-894-2135. Duke Family Performance Hall – Davidson College.
Thursday, Nov. 7
Deana Carter7 pm | Nov. 7. Deana Carter showcased her own blend of country and retro-rock sprinkled with the folksy singer/songwriter qualities. Tickets: $45-65. Cain Center for the Arts, Catawba Avenue.
Friday, Nov. 8
7:30 pm | Nov. 8. an all-star bluegrass supergroup featuring four legendary, award-winning musicians – John Jorgenson on acoustic guitar, mandolin and vocals; Herb Pedersen on banjo, acoustic guitar and vocals; Mark Fain on bass; and Patrick Sauber on acoustic guitar and vocals – delivering bluegrass like no one has ever heard it before. Tickets: $25-45. Cain Center for the Arts, Catawba Avenue.
Saturday, Nov. 9
HEARTS Harvest: Down on the Farm
2-5 pm | Nov. 9. Delve into the history of farming in our region and advancements through the generations. Discover insights from local farmers about the equipment they use today and those their ancestors relied on in the past. This multifaceted event — including farmers, historians, live music, local art and more — will explore the progression of farming practices as technology has developed and the environment has changed. Free with donations appreciated. Historic Cedar Grove, Gilead Road, Huntersville.
Heart By Heart7:30 pm | Nov 9. Steve Fossen and Michael Derosier, bassist and drummer for the band Heart during the 1970s and early 1980s, are now touring as Heart By Heart. The band features vocalist Somar Macek, guitarist/keyboardist/vocalist Lizzy Daymont and guitarist Chad Quist. Heart By Heart presents a powerful, dynamic show. Tickets: $35-55. Cain Center for the Arts, Catawba Avenue.
9th Annual Veterans Day Parade & Ceremony
9:30 am-noon | Nov. 9. The Town of Huntersville, American Legion Post 321 and The American Legion Auxiliary Unit 321 invite you to join the recognition of the 60th anniversary of the Gulf of Tonkin Incident, with the parade theme “Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans.” The parade will make its way down N.C. 115 at 9:30 am. A ceremony will follow the parade at Veterans Park beginning 11 a.m. to honor and remember those who serve and have served. Downtown Huntersville.
Noon – 6pm | Nov. 9. Shopping from 40 local businesses. Family and pet friendly, food vendors. 760 Craft Works, 100 Gilead Rd., Huntersville.
Sunday, Nov. 10
Choirs: Inimitable Hand: Benjamin Britten
7:30 pm | Nov. 10. Davidson College Choirs present music by one of the central figures of twentieth century music, Benjamin Britten (1913–76), renowned for his operas, vocal and choral output. Admission is free, but tickets are required; call 704-894-2135. Davidson College Presbyterian Church, Davidson.
• 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.
Monday, Nov.11
Community Document Shredding Event
9-11 am | Nov. 11. Hosted by the Cornelius Police Department. Free. 4-box maximum per resident or business. Will end early if truck reaches capacity. Student parking lot of William A. Hough High School, 12420 Bailey Road.
Veterans Day program in Cornelius
11 am-1 pm | Nov. 11. The Town of Cornelius and American Legion Post 86 program honors military veterans and those currently serving in our Armed Forces. Cornelius Veterans Monument at Rotary Plaza and the Cornelius Town Hall lawn.
Veternas Day program in Davidson
11 am | Nov. 11. Commemorating Veterans Day at 216 S. Main, outdoors in the horseshoe parking lot in front of the Davidson Public Safety Building. Keynote address from Maj. General Scott A. Jackson of the United States Army. Downtown Davidson.
Vistas: Musical works by Jennifer Stasack
7:30 – 9 pm | Nov. 11. Musical works by Jennifer Stasack with special guest Kosuke Matsuda, marimba. Honor the retirement of Professor Jennifer Stasack with a recital featuring compositions of hers not previously performed in concert at Davidson College. Program includes works for solo marimba, chamber ensemble of viola, oboe, and clarinet, and a vocal piece for soprano and tenor with piano, violin, and cello accompaniment. Brief reflections by the composer will be interwoven with the music with a reception to follow. Free and open to the public. Sloan Music Center Tyler-Tallman Recital Hall, Davidson College.
Tuesday, Nov. 12
The Lake Norman Chamber Foundation Thanksgiving Fundraising Breakfast
8-11 am | Nov. 12. The vision of this event is to be a “Goodfellow’s-style” event in Lake Norman to express our gratitude for being in the most business-friendly environment in one of the most blessed locations in the most blessed nation on earth.The 2024 Breakfast will benefit the Lake Norman YMCA Pre-School and After School Programs as well as the Cornelius Early Scholars. Advance tickets needed. Call 704.892.1922 with questions. The Peninsula Club, Cornelius.
Thursday, Nov. 14 – Sunday Nov. 24
10 am to see website for closing times. Adult advance online only $18; adults at the door $20; children ages 6-12 $10; children 5 and younger free with a parent. Parking $10; gates open two hours before show. The Park Expo & Conference Center, 800 Briar Creek Rd., Charlotte 28205.
Saturday, Nov. 16
11th Annual Cornelius Food Truck Invitational
2-8 pm | Nov. 16. The top trucks go head-to-head for boasting rights. Vote for your favorites across a variety of categories. Live music, vendors, kids activities, games, giveaways and more. Cornelius Town Hall.
9 am – 2 pm | Nov. 16. 100-plus vendors, food trucks, coffee/donut truck, photo ops, live Christmas tree sales, silent auction with more than 15-plus items and live music. Lake City Church, 311 Bluefield Rd., Mooresville.
Tree Lighting at LangTree Lake Norman
5-9 pm | Nov. 16. Lighting ceremony of 40-foot tree at 7:30 pm. Festivities include visit with Santa, face painting, craft vendors, food and beverage vendors, live DJ and bounce houses. LangTree Lake Norman, 144 Village View Dr., Mooresville 28117.
4-8:30 pm | Nov. 16. The event will begin with interactive exhibits and games led by the College’s astronomy class in the Blanche Knox Parker Esplanade between the Dana and Watson science buildings from 4-6 pm. The exhibits will be followed by nighttime stargazing on the campus lawn from 6:30-8 pm. Stay for the entire event or spend just a short time exploring the exhibits or taking a tour of the night sky. Check the website https://sites.google.com/davidson.edu/DavidsonStarParty2024?blm_aid=165565for weather status updates. Davidson College, Davidson.
Sunday, Nov. 17
3 pm | Nov. 17. As World War II came to an end, composer Randall Thompson honored Thomas Jefferson and his writings by creating a choral work that rallied great national pride at a time of world conflict. Featuring Queens Choral Union, Mitchell Community Chorus, Central Piedmont Community College Chorus, Palmetto Voices, and Queens Chamber Orchestra. Free. Queens University of Charlotte, Gambrell Center, 2319 Wellesley Ave., Charlotte 28274.
Saturday, Nov. 23
Larry McCray7:30 pm | Nov. 23. Rust belt blues shouter and guitar slinger.Tickets: $45-65. Cain Center for the Arts, Catawba Avenue.
9 am – noon | Nov. 23. Load up on all the foods you need for an NC feast. Davidson Farmers. Market, downtown Davidson.
The Lighting of Birkdale Village
2-7 pm | Nov. 23. Get in the holiday spirit with festive music, holiday performances and activities for the whole family. From Santa’s arrival to the magical tree lighting, there’s something fun for everyone. To view a map of the parade route and other aspects of the event, click here. Birkdale Village, Huntersville.
Sunday, Nov. 24
Community Thanksgiving Service
6 pm | Nov. 24. A Lake Norman community service to give thanks. All are welcome. Bethel Presbyterian Church, 19920 Bethel Church Rd., Cornelius.
Lindsay Kesselman
3 pm | Nov. 24. Lindsay Kesselman and Allison Gagnon present “How Can I Keep from Singing?”, an afternoon of art song. Pre-concert lecture at 2 pm, sponsored by Davidson Learns. $21.40 adults, $16.30 seniors, youth and students free, but must have ticket. St. Alban’s Episcopal Church, 301 Caldwell Lane, Davidson.
Monday, Nov. 25
Davidson College Concert Series: Piano Quartets of Mozart and Brahms
7:30 pm | Nov. 25. Internationally renowned pianist, Phillip Bush, performs two powerhouse piano quartets with Chamber Music For All. The concert will feature Mozart’s Piano Quartet No. 1 in G minor, K. 478 and Brahms’s Piano Quartet No. 1 in G minor, Op. 25. The two G minor quartets—one Classical and one Romantic—present dazzling displays of pianistic virtuosity and heartfelt tenderness. 425 adult; $22 senior; $10 child. Call 704-894-2135 for tickets. Tyler-Tallman Hall – Davidson College.
Friday, Nov. 29
Joe Gransden’s Little Big Band Holiday Show
7:30 pm | Nov. 29. Favorite holiday classics played by jazz sensation Joe Gransden and his big band.Tickets $45-$65. Cain Center for the Arts, Catawba Avenue.
Saturday, Nov. 30
4-7 pm | Nov. 30. Annual tree lighting around 5:45 pm. Community group performances, children’s activities, a model train display, food and drink, s’mores, and a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus. Downtown Cornelius outside the Cain Center for the Arts.
12th annual AmeriCarna LIVE Car Show
9 am – 3 pm | Nov. 30. Ray Evernham’s 12th annual AmeriCarna LIVE car show is open to all cars. Gates open for car entrants at 7 am and for spectators at 9 am. Registration is $30 per car. Spectator tickets are $5 and kids under 6 are admitted for free. Trane Technologies North American Corporate Headquarters, 800 Beaty St., Davidson.
Noon – 5 pm | Nov. 30. Local vendors. Lost World Brewing, Cornelius.
Saturday, Nov. 30- Sunday, Dec. 1
Christmas Extravaganza Holiday Market
10 am – 4 pm | Nov. 30-Dec. 1. Get a head start on Christmas shopping with an endless supply of boutiques, crafters, woodworkers, artisans, glass blowers and more. $7 entry; free parking. Cabarrus Arena & Events Center, 4751 NC Hwy. 49, Concord.
Sunday, Dec. 1
1-6 pm | Dec. 1. Shop local artisans and small businesses; Christmas-themed inflatables and activities; local craft brews, ciders and food trucks; Candy Cane Quest scavenger hunt; Letters to Santa Station; live Christmas music and performances; a visit from Saint Nick. Oak Street Mill, downtown Cornelius.
Sunday, Dec. 1 – Sunday, Dec. 8
Dec. 1-8. See online to register, learn details to enter and the entry deadline. Lake Norman State Park visitors will vote for their favorite house this week. Lake Norman State Park, 759 State Park Rd., Troutman.
Wednesday, Dec. 4
5:30 pm or 8 pm | Dec. 4. The Davidson College choirs, orchestra, Appalachian Ensemble and Jazz Ensemble collaborate with Dance Davidson to bring you your festive holiday favorites and more. Tickets required; call 704-894-2135. $15-$35. Duke Family Performance Hall – Davidson College.
Friday, Dec. 6
Huntersville Town Tree Lighting
6-9 pm | Dec. 6. There will be something for everyone; rides, food and beverage vendors, 50+ craft vendors, Santa and a special performances by artists and performance groups. Downtown Huntersville.
Friday, Dec. 6 – Sunday, Dec. 8
5:30-8 pm | Dec. 6-8. Come and allow the sights, sounds, smells and tastes of the town of Bethlehem to transport you to the night that Jesus Christ was born. Journey through ancient Bethlehem, take part in the census decreed by King Herod, see the Inn and the marketplace bustling with activity. Finally the Nativity where a very special baby was born in a stable. Eevent is free. There are no vendors. Mount Hope Church, 7004 Old Concord Rd., Salisbury 28146.
Saturday, Dec. 7
Noon – 3 pm | Dec. 7. Celebrate the holidays by meeting Owl Claus, who delivers gifts for the raptors, and Santa all in one day. Both Santas will be available for photos; you must bring your own phone or camera to take pictures on. Included with paid admission. Carolina Raptor Center, 6000 Sample Rd., Huntersville.
HEARTS Winter Wisdom: Stories from Cedar Grove
2-5 pm | Dec. 7. HEARTS Winter Wisdom ’24 welcomes back Margaret “Chuck” Basinger, who grew up in Cedar Grove and is the great-great-great granddaughter of Hugh Torance. She’ll share her memories growing up in the house, what has changed, and what’s remained the same. Live music and winter nature tips. Cedar Grove, 8229 Gilead Rd., Huntersville.
3-8 pm | Dec. 7 . Activities will include free children’s rides, Artisan Ice Sculptures, holiday performances on stage from a variety of local groups, Carolers of Christmas Past, glitter tattoos, balloon twisters, roaming holiday characters, letters and pictures with Santa, and more. Shop with 50+ local vendors. Downtown Huntersville.
6:30-9:30 pm | Dec. 7. Take part in an authentic ghost hunt of the building and grounds (weather permitting) using real investigative tools led by members of the Charlotte Area Paranormal Society (CAPS). Limited to 12 guests, 12 and older. Tickets $25 in advance. Hugh Torance House and Store, 8231 Gilead Rd., Huntersville.
Sunday, Dec. 8
7-9 pm | Dec. 8. Vespers service of lessons and carols. The traditional candlelight worship service features the Chorale and Davidson Chamber Singers, and scripture readings. Guests include the Davidson College Pro Arte Brass and the Tower Ringers handbell choir. Free and open to the public. Davidson College Presbyterian Church Sanctuary.
Monday, Dec. 9
7:30-9 pm | Dec. 9. The Davidson College Performing Musical Theater class will showcase their fall semester with Broadway favorites. Free and open to the public. Sloan Music Center Tyler-Tallman Recital Hall, Davidson College.
Friday, Dec. 13
Classic Christmas in Mooresville
6-9 pm; ice skating begins 5 pm | Dec. 13. Wagon rides; visits with Santa; Victorian carolers crooning; a synthetic ice-skating rink; live performances; two life-sized snow globes; hot cocoa, sweets and treats; an animated projected light show; plus loads of family fun. Downtown Mooresville.
Saturday, Dec. 14
9 am – 2 pm | Dec. 14. Vendors include crafters and artisans, along with holiday gifts. Bethel Presbyterian Church, 19920 Bethel Church Rd., Cornelius.
9 am – noon | Dec. 14. Food and holiday gifts. Davidson Farmers. Market, downtown Davidson.
Saturday, Dec. 14- Saturday, Dec. 21
5-9 pm | Dec. 14-21. 30 small shop vendors each night, music, food and Santa. Liberty Park, 225 E. Iredell Ave., Mooresville 28115.
Sunday, Dec. 15
11 am – 4 pm | Dec. 15. Explore over 75 local vendors, enjoy music, snap photos with Santa. Bring the kids for fun holiday crafts and workshop stations; $25 registration required as space is limited. The Charles Mack Citizen Center, 215 N. Main St., downtown Mooresville.
Thursday, Dec. 19
7 pm | Dec. 19. Pam Tillis and her Acoustic Trio handle holiday music in a masterful way with an approach that celebrates country music at its best. $55-$75. Cain Center for the Arts.
5:30-7pm | Dec. 19. The town fill the lawn with candy canes to be found and enjoyed. Children also enjoy stories read by Santa Claus, crafts, hot chocolate and more. Wilhelm Park, 19018 Smith Cir.
Friday, Dec. 20
Appalachian Christmas7:30 pm | Dec. 20. Mark & Maggie O’Connor perform Christmas carols, fiddling, bluegrass and other traditional American music. $35 – $55. Cain Center for the Arts.
Saturday, Dec. 21
9 am – noon | Dec. 21. Food and holiday gifts. Davidson Farmers. Market, downtown Davidson.
Lake Norman Lighted Christmas Boat Parade
5:30 pm | Dec. 21. Blythe Landing in Cornelius will be the start, on to Ramsey Creek Park, The Peninsula Yacht Club and then the Energy Explorium in Huntersville for the grand finale. Toys and donations will be collected for Little Smiles.
11 am and 2 pm shows | Dec. 21. A new story inspired by the the holiday song “Frosty the Snowman.” Tickets $20-$45. Cain Center for the Arts.
2024 North Carolina Christmas Festival
1-5 pm | Dec. 21. Free pictures with Santa Claus, free toy giveaway for the kids, free gift wrapping, Christmas coloring & word search, and more! Vendors, entertainment, and more round out this family friendly free event. Cabarrus Arena & Events Center, 4751 NC Highway 49 N., Concord.
Sunday, Dec. 29
The Menorah Lighting at Birkdale Village
5:30 pm | Dec. 29. Join Chabad of Lake Norman for a Chanukah celebration. Guests are invited to celebrate Chanukah with a traditional Menorah lighting ceremony, children’s crafts, donuts, latkes gelt and more. The Grove across from Regal, Birkdale Village, 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.• 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.
