Camden Commons, South End’s ‘Living Room’ Pop-Up Event, Is Back

South End’s “outdoor living room” is back this spring and summer, as Camden Commons once again takes over the neighborhood’s Camden Road. During these free Sunday outings, the street is abuzz with 30 retail vendors, food trucks, “hangout zones,” games, interactive activations, and live music, while being closed to vehicular traffic between Tremont Avenue and East/West Boulevard. These next two editions of Camden Commons, presented by Lowe’s, arrive on May 21 and June 18, respectively. 

These 2023 installments of the event include a slew of family-friendly activities: a giant word search; a station for creating Picasso-inspired portraits via recycled materials; a build-your-own-bouquet bar; an interactive gardening station where kids can make necklaces; and more. Lowe’s, which owns the nearby Lowe’s Tech Hub in the neighborhood, is giving away goodies and supplying furniture for the lounge areas across the event.

The event’s origins go back to 2019 conversations between South End, Wilmore, and Dilworth residents, city officials, and Charlotte Center City Partners. Talks over the next few years led to improvements for pedestrians across the area. Street closures for events were another component of those conversations, and Camden Commons was born in 2022. A overwhelmingly positive response inspired its return this spring. 

Getting to Camden Road is easy, regardless of your preferred mode of transport. The LYNX Blue Line has the East/West Blvd. Station right at the event; paid parking garages are nearby at 11 W Worthington, the Design Center, and other spots; and you can always rent a JoyRides e-assist bike to travel via the Rail Trail.

> Learn more and plan your visit here.