CIAA 2011 Events and Parties Sat March 5 to Sun March 6

Your guide to the hottest parties and events at the 2011 CIAA Tournament in Charlotte, North Carolina

Saturday, March 5 to Sunday, March 6

The annual CIAA Tournament is taking place in Charlotte for the sixth consecutive year, from February 28 to March 5. Even though there will be six days of college basketball going on at Time Warner Cable Arena, it’s all of the surrounding events and parties that create the most excitement and draw tens of thousands of visitors. Below is a list of those events on Saturday, March 5 and Sunday, March 6. Please use the website listed for each event to verify information.

This list will be updated each week with more events through March 1.
Click here to see the rest of the week’s events.
Click here if you would like to submit an event.

*Editor’s Pick
#Official CIAA Tournament Event (put on by the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association)

Saturday, March 5

#CIAA Toyota Fan Experience
Events and activities for fans include car displays, video game and interactive zones, cooking exhibitions, and performances by national recording artists. Noon-8 p.m. Free. Charlotte Convention Center, 501 S. College St. ciaatournament.org.

The Finale! A Grown & Sexy Day Party
Invitation extended to all VUU, VSU, BSU, ECSU, FSU, JCSU, SPC alumni, and all others. Hosted by Kiss 105.7’s own Dee Dee Renee, with music by DJ Casper from Washington, D.C. Presented by CM Entertainment. Noon. $15 general admission; $25 VIP. Luna Lounge, 521 N. College St. thefinaleciaa2011.eventbrite.com.

Third-Annual Red Carpet Affair Day Party
The organizers roll out the red carpet at this fancy steak house, turning it into a party hub for the day. Music by DJ Paradime. Presented by Heights Entertainment. Noon-6 p.m. $20 and up. Ruth’s Chris Steak House, 222 S. Tryon St. heightsent.com.

*Uptown Saturday
It’s one of the most popular day parties each year when CIAA is in town. Get there early or you won’t get in. Music by DJ Polo. Part of Digital Divas’ Welcome to Charlotte Weekend. 1-7 p.m. $10 and up. Blue Restaurant and Bar, 214 N. Tryon St. (corner of Fifth and College streets). digitaldivasevents.com.

Yacht Day Party
After meeting at a central location, enjoy drinks on the party buses as they take you to the yacht on Lake Norman, just twenty minutes from downtown Charlotte. Food will be served along with a cash bar. Presented by Exclusive Essence Entertainment. 2 p.m. $35. Kings Point Marina, 17939 King Points Dr., Cornelius. exclusiveessenceent.com.

Industry Addiction
If you’re “addicted” to music or the music industry, or enjoy fashion, networking, entertainment, live shows, or concerts, then this event is for you. Artist and producer showcase will feature hip-hop, R&B, pop, and rock. Presented by SDE Marketing + Promotions. 4 p.m. $10. Tremont Music Hall, 400 W. Tremont Ave. IndustryAddiction.eventbrite.com.

#Women’s and Men’s CIAA Tournament Championships
The weeklong tournament concludes with these two finals. Women’s game at 5 p.m. and men’s game at 8 p.m. Visit website for ticket info. Time Warner Cable Arena, 333 E. Trade St. ciaatournament.org.

Good Times: The Grand Finale I
Hosted by Bern Nadette Stanis, aka Thelma from the popular 1970s sitcom Good Times (the pretty lady all the boys had a crush on). Presented by Six Figure Entertainment. 9 p.m. $25 and up. Harvey B. Gantt Center for African American Arts + Culture, 551 S. Tryon St. sixfigureentertainment.com.

The Encore @ The Ballroom
This party is taking over the 25,000-square-foot ballroom at one of uptown’s trendiest hotels. And they’re doing it Friday (The Premiere) and Saturday night (The Encore). Music by the renowned DJ Kool (Friday) and DJ Bro Rabb (Saturday). Presented by The A List. 9 p.m. See website for price info. The Westin, 601 S. College St. alistnextevent.com.

#CIAA Post-Tournament Party
The official tournament after-party features performances by legendary soul singer Jeffrey Osborne. Doors open at 10 p.m. $25 in advance; $30 at the door. Crown Ballroom, Charlotte Convention Center, 501 S. College St. ciaatournament.org.

*Do Day Dougie
The incomparable Doug E. Fresh, the hip-hop legend who has a famous dance named after him, hosts this party. Music by celebrity DJ Shogun. Presented by Eddietainment. Noon-6 p.m. $15 and up. Pavilion at EpiCentre, 210 E. Trade St., eddietainment.com.

The Day Affair
Two popular promoters come together for this day party. Presented by Velvet Entertainment and the A-List. Noon-6 p.m. $15. Vida Lounge, inside the EpiCentre, 210 E. Trade St., alistnextevent.com.

Return of the Ram Official Day Party
Celebrate the return of Winston-Salem State University (WSSU) to the CIAA. Music by DJ Clutch. Presented by the Charlotte QC Rams Alumni Chapter. Noon-6 p.m. $10 and up. Marriott Center City, 100 W. Trade St., wssuqcrams.com.

The Official Kid Capri Celebrity Grand Finale
One of the biggest DJs in hip-hop, Kid Capri returns to Charlotte with guest DJ Technician. Hosted by NYC’s Obie the Promoter and Big Pat, the voice of the Charlotte Bobcats. Presented by Sherod McCormick, LV Productions, I.Simmons, and str8swagg.com. 9 p.m. $25 in advance. StrikeCity, inside the EpiCentre, 210 E. Trade St., kidcapriparty.eventbrite.com.

Black Hollywood Grand Finale
Music by Power 98’s Tab D’Biassi. Presented by Tony Wallace, PDE, VEP, and Williams Evans. 9 p.m. Ladies free before 11 p.m. Costs from $15 (general admission) to $150 (VIP). On the Roxx, 1520 South Blvd., ciaaontheroxx.com.

Second Annual Party with the Pros Hosted by Slick Rick
One of the godfathers of hip-hop, Slick Rick, hosts this party. Music by Power 98’s Yasmin. VIP available. Presented by Elite 5 Entertainment Group. 9:30 p.m. Cost varies. Grand Central, 1000 Central Ave., elitefive.eventbrite.com.

*Founders Hall Finale
In a repeat feat from last year, this is night two (they’re also doing it Friday night) of MAZ Entertainment’s takeover of one of Charlotte’s largest venues, connected to the city’s tallest building, aka Bank of America Corporate Center. Dance on marble floors as you gaze at the city’s skyline through a three-story glass ceiling. Plus, the escalators will lead you to the large VIP section located on level two. 10 p.m.-2 a.m. Visit website for price info. Founders Hall, 100 N. Tryon St., mazentertainment.net.

*Fifth-Annual Championship Saturday Jazz Brunch
The brunch features jazz ensemble Acoustic Soul and a delectable food menu. There will also be prize giveaways. Presented by Charlotte’s Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity. 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m. $35 in advance. McCormick & Schmick’s, 200 S. Tryon St. cltkappas.com/brunch.

Cufflinks and Cocktails: The Day Party
This popular, monthly evening event goes dayside for the tournament. Presented by Charlotte’s Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity. Noon-6 p.m. $15 in advance. Enso Asian Bistro and Sushi Bar, inside the EpiCentre, 210 E. Trade St. cufflinksandcocktails.com.

I Am | You Are | We Are: JCSU’s Official Day Party with DJ Kool
Come represent for the JCSU Golden Bulls. Music by the legendary DJ Kool. Presented by YTILT and The Sol Kitchen. Noon-6 p.m. $10 in advance. Phoenix (formerly The Forum), 300 N. College St. ytilt.com.

The Day Affair Vol. 5
It’s billed as “The Best D@%# Day Party Period,” and has built a large following during its four-year run in Charlotte. Featuring a bull-riding competition, drink specials, open buffet, and ticket giveaways. Music by New York City’s DJ S&S. Presented by Bestfriendz. Noon-7 p.m. $10 and up; ladies free before 1 p.m. with flier. Whisky River, inside the EpiCentre, 210 E. Trade St. thebestdamndaypartyperiod.com.

All 4 One Party
It’s an all-day and -night, nonstop party. All you can eat and drink. Music by DJ Skyy. Presented by B.A.T.T. Noon-2 a.m. $30 in advance. American Legion Post 380, 4235 W. Tyvola Rd. ez-tixx.com.

Charlotte Black Film Festival (March 3-5)
The CBFF will host three full days of festivities, films, and fun. It’s composed of film screenings, panel discussions, workshops, and the Vision Awards, which celebrate the work of African American filmmakers. See website for schedule and costs. Halton Theater, Central Piedmont Community College, 1206 Elizabeth Ave. charlotteblackfilmfestival.com.

Pinnacle Day Party
Connect with family, friends, and business associates while conversing over a cocktail at this beautiful restaurant, lounge, and patio. They’re also celebrating the birthday of K97.5 FM radio personality Brian Dawson. Fashionable attire is encouraged. Presented by A2Z Entertainment, Se7en Productions, PrivateNC.com, and BD Entertainment. Noon-5 p.m. Visit website for price info. Dressler’s, inside The Metropolitan, 1100 Metropolitan Ave., Suite 125-E. froma2zentertainment.com.

The Day Party Headquarters–Part 2
It’s Day Two of one of the biggest day parties year after year. Party on three levels, with six DJs, forty flat-screen TVs, ten pool tables, and six bars. Presented by Talk of the Town, LK, and R&R Productions. Noon-8 p.m. $15 and up. Fox and Hound, 330 N. Tryon St. tottciparties2011.eventbrite.com.

Tryst Day Party
Get your groove on at one of uptown’s newest and shiniest venues. Music by DJ Lonnie B. of Richmond’s Power 92 and Heavy Hitters DJ crew. Presented by A.C.T. Productions, PMG, and ForWard Vision Group. 1-7 p.m. $15 in advance. VIP tables are available. Urban Gardens at The Ritz-Carlton, 150 N. College St. forwardvisiongroup.com.

Welcome to The Kandi Shop with Kandi Burruss
The R&B singer turned Real Housewives of Atlanta star hosts this party. Presented by La Dolce Vita Escapes. 9 p.m.-2 a.m. $25 and up. VIP packages available. Cosmos Café, 300 N. College St. thekandishop.eventbrite.com.

Game On! Hosted by Wendy Raquel Robinson
You know her as the feisty Tasha Mack from BET’s The Game, and now you can party with her. Music by DJ Polo. Presented by IV for Life Entertainment. 9 p.m.-2:30 a.m. $30 in advance. The Big Chill, 911 E. Morehead St. gameon2011-auto.eventbrite.com.

Alpha to Omega Day Party: The Pink and Purple Edition
Food, hookahs, and cigars are available. VIP sections with table and private wait staff. Music by DJ Tab D’Biassi. Presented by Clawson Entertainment and the Aristocrats. Noon. $10. The Sunset Club, 1820 South Blvd. ez-tixx.com.

Indulgence: The DMV Party
The DMV (D.C., Maryland, Virginia) will converge here. Music by DJ Quicksilva and DJ A Rod. Presented by The Flywire. 9 p.m. $25 in advance. Molly MacPherson’s Pub & Grill, 127 N. Tryon St. theflywire.com.

SaturDazed: Drink, Dance, Play, Repeat
MAZ Entertainment keeps the party going. Noon-7 p.m. Visit website for ticket prices. Belk Theater, N.C. Blumenthal Performing Arts Center, 130 N. Tryon St. mazentertainment.net.

The Appreciation 2011
The barbershop and salon community show their appreciation with this event. Free martinis for ladies until 10 p.m. Presented by Hats Off Barbershop and The Dooby Shop. 8 p.m. Free before 10 p.m. The Brevard Event Center, 219 S. Brevard St. doobyshop.com.

*Day Meets Night
Hosted by Janine Davis with an appearance by Lamman Rucker from the hit TV series Meet the Browns. Featuring music by DJ Kid Capri, Technician the DJ, DJ Frase, and DJ Justice. Presented by BDI Nation. Noon. $15 in advance; $25 at the door. The Harvey B. Gantt Center, 551 S. Tryon St. bdination.com.

The 2nd Annual Day Soiree
Presented by Cheeky Sasso Ent., A List Group, and Pratt Styles. 1-7 p.m. $10 in advance. Crave Dessert Bar, 500 W. Fifth Street. 2ndannualdaysoiree.eventbrite.com.

Day Party at Allure
Featuring live band Jus Once along with DJ Horse Raney of 102 JAMZ. There will also be an “old school” fish and chicken fry, so bring your appetite. 1 p.m. Free before 2 p.m. $10 in advance. Allure Lounge, 1508 S. Mint St. allurerestaurant.com.

The Best D*mn Greek Day Party
Invitation extended to all AKAs, Alphas, Deltas, Kappas, Omegas, Sigmas, Zetas, SGRhos, and Iotas. Music by DJ Daun Juan and DJ Phalse. Presented by Atlanta Greek Picnic and Virginia Greek Picnic. 1-7 p.m. $20. JET Ultra Lounge, 1202 Charlottetown Ave. atlantagreekpicnic.com.

A Soundscape Party by King Magazine
The atmosphere of this beautiful sushi bar will combine with some of the hottest mixes of neo-soul, R&B, jazz, Latin, Afro-beat, and soulful house music put together by DJ Khaos. And a live performance by Jason Jetplane featuring Innertwyned. 9 p.m. $30 in advance. Enso Asian Bistro & Sushi Bar, inside the EpiCentre, 210 E Trade St. lionessbusinessgroup@live.com.

Grand Finale with Wiz Khalifa
Mr. “Black and Yellow” hosts this party and will also perform. Music by DJ Green Lantern.
9 p.m.-4 a.m. $30 in advance. Club 935, 935 S. Summit Ave. club935.com.

Tournament Finale Late Night Jazz
Don’t feel like hitting a party, but still want that tournament atmosphere? Enjoy cocktails while listening to live jazz by saxophonist Shableek and Unkommon Jazz. Presented by Jazz Diva Entertainment. 11 p.m.-2 a.m. $20. Morton’s The Steakhouse Uptown, 227 W. Trade St. ez-tixx.com.

The Main Event with T-Pain and DJ Khaled
They close out the weekend in a big way, with performances by two hip-hop stars and occupying three venues. Presented by Inner Circle Events. 10 p.m.-2 a.m. $45 and up in advance. Suite, Whisky River, and Pavilion, inside the EpiCentre, 210 E. Trade St. innercircleevents.com.

Mike Epps and Friends
This comedy show features one of the funniest comedians around, Mike Epps, along with special guest Sheryl Underwood. 8 p.m. $46, $56, $76. Bojangles Coliseum, 2700 E. Independence Blvd. bojanglescoliseum.com.

Funkmaster Flex and his NFL Friends
Flex remains one of the top DJs and radio personalities in hip-hop. Hosted by NFL players Deon Grant, Takeo Spikes, Leonard Little at uptown’s newest nightclub. Presented by The Sol Kitchen. 9 p.m. $40 and up; VIP available. Phoenix (formerly The Forum), 300 N. College St. thesolkitchen.com.

Saturday Night Live with R. Kelly
The “King of R&B” hosts this party. And it’s your opportunity to check out this new nightclub. 9 p.m. $40 and up. Lux (formerly Jillian’s), 200 E. Bland St. luxcharlotte.com.

Official Power 98 Party with Erykah Badu
The “Window Seat” singer performs live, with music by DJ Buttafingahz. 9 p.m. Cost varies. 5th Element, 500 W. Fifth St. 5thelementnc.com.

Sunday, March 6

Panache: Farewell Jazz Brunch
Enjoy good company and good food as you say goodbye to the week of festivities. Features a live jazz band. Presented by Digital Divas. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Ruth’s Chris Steak House, 222 S. Tryon St. digitaldivasevents.com.

Sunday Sendoff Spectacular
Power 98’s DJ Incognito wants you to keep the party going. 10 p.m. $10. Suite, inside the EpiCentre, 210 E. Trade St. fullhouseconcerts.musictoday.com.

Visit www.charlottemagazine.com/ciaa for our comprehensive coverage of the events and parties surrounding the 2011 CIAA Tournament.