CIAA Week 2014 Events: Friday, Feb. 28
Compiled by Jarvis Holliday, @HollidayInk.
The annual Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) Tournament is taking place in Charlotte for the ninth consecutive year, with events scheduled from Monday, February 24 to Sunday, March 2. The tournament includes five days of men’s and women’s college basketball games at Time Warner Cable Arena, and surrounding events and parties create additional excitement and draw tens of thousands of visitors to the city.
The EpiCentre is a major hub for day parties and visitors during CIAA Weekend.
Photo credit: epicentrenc.com
Below is a list of events scheduled for Friday, February 28.
Please use the website listed for each event to verify information. Advance tickets can be purchased through many of the websites as well.
*Denotes an official CIAA Tournament event
This list will be updated weekly with additional events, so check back soon.
UPDATED: 2-26-14
Friday, February 28
[Day Events/Parties]
*Yolanda Adams Morning Show
Be a part of a CIAA Tournament tradition and get up early on Friday morning to be a part of a nationally syndicated radio show’s broadcast. Grammy Award-winning singer turned radio personality Yolanda Adams is a fan favorite, and you can expect surprise celebrity guests to appear. Presented by Lowe’s. 5:30-10 a.m. Free admission. Charlotte Convention Center, Halls A and B, 501 S. College St., theciaa.com.
*John B. McLendon Jr. CIAA Hall of Fame Breakfast
The Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association will welcome seven new members into its hall of fame during this formal induction ceremony. 9 a.m. Visit website for admission prices. Charlotte Convention Center, Ballroom A, 501 S. College St., theciaa.com.
*CIAA Women’s and Men’s Tournament Semifinals
Down to the final four in both the women’s and men’s brackets. Women’s games: 1 and 3 p.m. Men’s games: 7 and 9 p.m. All-session passes, $60-$530. Time Warner Cable Arena, 333 E. Trade St., theciaa.com.
*Watch the Throne: CIAA Greek Day Party
This is an official day party of the CIAA. Two DJs, two levels, and a heated patio. 2-7 p.m. $10 and up in advance. Ri Ra Irish Pub, 208 N. Tryon St., ciaastepshows.com/dayparty.html.
*CIAA Fan Experience
A full schedule of events and activities for fans, including prize and ticket giveaways, car displays, video games and interactive zones, cooking exhibitions, celebrity appearances, and performances by popular hip-hop and R&B artists. Presented by Toyota. 5-10 p.m. Free admission. Charlotte Convention Center, Halls A and B, 501 S. College St., theciaa.com.
The New York Connection Old School Mix & Mingle 2014
Join friends from across the country for a 30-and-older party experience. Music by DJ Stacey Blackman of Charlotte’s 105.3 FM and DJ Aaron S of New York City. Brought to you by The New York Connection. 1-6 p.m. $20 in advance; VIP packages available. Tanner’s Bistro and Lounge, 505 E. 6th St., newyorkconnectiontournamentparty2014.eventbrite.com.
Top of the Top: EpiCentre Rooftop Day Party
Party on the rooftop of uptown’s popular entertainment complex. It will be enclosed and heated, and your finest daywear is requested. Brought to you by Culture19. Noon-7 p.m. $15 and up. Pavilion at EpiCentre, 210 E. Trade St., culture19.com.
The Day Party of All Day Parties, Part 1
Featuring music by DJ 360, DJ Hollywood, and DJ Pete James. Ages 30 and older preferred. Brought to you by BossMan Entertainment. Noon-6 p.m. $10 in advance; $15 at the door; VIP booths, $75. Dillinger’s Taproom, 214 N. Church St., bossmanentertainment.org.
Ninth Annual Déjà Vu
Come ready to party the day away, with music from DJ Daddy D. Large bar and lunch menu available. Ages 30 and older preferred. Brought to you by Digital Divas. 1-7 p.m. $20 and up; VIP seating available. Blue Restaurant and Bar, 206 N. College St. (corner of 5th and College streets), digitaldivasevents.com.
University City Elite Day Party
Take your day party experience to the north side. Music by DJ Turk Nice. Brought to you by Vallo Corporation and Songstress Event Management. Noon-5 p.m. $10 in advance. Kabuto Japanese Steakhouse, 1001 East W.T. Harris Blvd., eventbrite.com/e/university-city-elite-day-party-tournament-weekend-500-early-bird-special-tickets-10278070987.
Put On For Our City Part 7 with DJ Biz Markie
Represent your city and party with the legendary DJ Biz Markie. Hosted by 4Ever Entertainment. Noon-6 p.m. $15 and up in advance; VIP tables available. Privilege Charlotte, 223 S. Brevard St., privilegecharlotte.com.
Tryst: Brunch and Day Party
Arrive early to indulge in some of the area’s most delectable food. Socialize and mingle with a mature crowd of professional alumni, athletes, and entertainers. Music by DJ Paradime and DJ Tayrock from Atlanta. Brought to you by Eddietainment, A.C.T., and Dynasty 5. 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Free admission before 1 p.m. Vapiano, 201 S. Tryon St., trystbrunch.eventbrite.com.
The Epitome (Day)
One of two Friday day parties offered by Brothers 4 Life Entertainment. Music by DJ Highrise. Noon-7 p.m. $20 in advance. Mortimer’s Café & Pub, at EpiCentre, 210 E. Trade St., b4life-ent.com.
Innocence Lost
Your second option to party with Brothers 4 Life Entertainment during this day. Music by DJ Fatz. Noon-6 p.m. $20 in advance; VIP tables available. Enso Asian Bistro & Sushi Bar, at EpiCentre, 210 E. Trade St., b4life-ent.com.
Ninth Annual Day Party Headquarters—Turned Up
Held at Fox and Hound each of the last several years, this two-day day party has a new home, but you can expect the same good times. Hosted by Big Tigger and Tab D’Biassi, with music by four DJs: Shakim, Flemingo, Big Cutz, and a special surprise DJ. Party on two levels and the heated patio, with 40 TVs, live entertainment, and food and drinks served all night. Brought to you by Talk of the Town, LK & R&R Productions. Noon-midnight. $30 in advance. The Saloon and The Comedy Zone, at NC Music Factory, 900 NC Music Factory Blvd., talkofthetownent.com.
New York-Charlotte: Reunion Day Party
If you’re looking for an age 25-and-older party experience, this is for you. Come ready to party the day away, with music from DJ Big Reg of New York and DJ Spinn, and the food menu will be available. Brought to you by Star 23 Enterprise. Noon-6 p.m. Free admission before 2 p.m. with RSVP; $10 after. Buffalo Wild Wings, at NASCAR Hall of Fame. 400 E. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., charlottebestdayparties.eventbrite.com.
Good Times Day Party with Doug E. Fresh
Party with hip hop legend Doug E. Fresh, along with music by DJ C-Rob, There’ll be drink specials and a special $10 food menu. Hosted by Moxie Society, 100 Black Men of Charlotte, Deltas of Charlotte Foundation, A.E. Grier & Sons, and We Run ECU. 2-7 p.m. $20 in advance. VBGB, at NC Music Factory, 920 Hamilton St., goodtimesdayparty.com.
Big Tournament Gospel Showcase
It’s a full lineup of gospel music performances, including choirs from Johnson C. Smith University, Winston-Salem State University, Livingstone College, and Johnson & Wales, as well as an independent gospel artist showcase, quartet gospel by The G-Man, and concluding with a concert by Dr. Larry Reed, Dennis Reed and GAP, Joshua Rogers, Arnetta Murrill Crooms, and Uncle Reece. A portion of proceeds will benefit the HBCU gospel choirs, Ausie Rivens Scholarship Foundation, and A Better World. Presented by Power 98 FM’s Sunday Morning Inspiration and Tonya Rivens. 12:30-10 p.m. Free before 5 p.m.; $8-$15 after; discount with college ID. Little Rock AME Zion, 401 N. McDowell St., tonyarivens.com.
Celebrity Day Party with Young Guru
He’s known to many hip hop heads as the recording engineer for Jay Z, but Young Guru is also a great DJ. Also, this party includes music from DJ Band Camp. Brought to you by IMM, TC Entertainment, and Harding Law. 1-7 p.m. $20 and up in advance; VIP tables available. Cosmos Café Uptown, 300 N. College St., charlotteparties.com.
The Ultimate Day Party Hosted by Doug E. Fresh
Who better to “teach you how to dougie” than the originator? Brought to you by Huliwood and Ace Entertainment. Noon-6 p.m. $15 and up in advance; VIP tables available. Vanity Nightclub, 500 W. 5th St., vanitycharlotte.com.
Dayhem 3.0: The All-Day Party
Three popular Charlotte promoters are coming together on this day party, with music by DJ DR and DJ Skillz. Brought to you by Blue Goose, RoundTable, and Sol Kitchen. Noon-6 p.m. $20 and up in advance. Howl At The Moon, at EpiCentre, 210 E. Trade St., thesolkitchen.com/category/ciaa.
The Best Happy Hour Day Party
The NCCU Alumni Association invites to come represent your university while partying with the Eagles. Music by DJ CK. Light hors d’oeuvres will be served. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the NCCU Scholarship Fund. Noon-6 p.m. $15 in advance. Shu Salon/Brief, 1426 S. Tryon St., nccucharlotte.org.
LU Roar! 1854 Casino Day Party
Lincoln University Alumni present their annual casino day party, featuring blackjack, poker, roulette tables, and slot machines. Complimentary food will be served, and music by DJ Smoove. 1-6 p.m. $30 in advance. Hyatt Place Charlotte Downtown, 222 S. Caldwell St., tenth floor, facebook.com/LUGreaterCarolinas.
Fourth Annual DJ SNS Friday Day Party with Lance Gross
With music by Ciroc Boy DJ SNS and hosted by actor Lance Gross, this party is sure to please. Presented by J&J Entertainment Group and BestFriendz. Noon-7 p.m. $20 and up in advance. Label, 900 NC Music Factory Blvd., djsnsfridaydayparty.eventbrite.com.
106&Park and Ciroc Boy DJ QuickSilva Friday Day Party
Music by DJ QuickSilva along with Miami’s DJ LS One. Presented by J&J Entertainment Group and Eddleton Events. 1-7 p.m. $20 and up in advance. Roxbury Nightclub, 116 W. 5th St., adayattheroxbury.eventbrite.com.
Celebrity Day Party with DJ Young Guru
Perhaps most known to hip hop fans as Jay Z’s musical engineer, Young Guru is also a great DJ and he’ll spin at this party, along with MMG’s DJ Band Camp. 1-7 p.m. $20 in advance. Cosmos Café Uptown, 300 N. College St., eventbrite.com/e/celebrity-day-party-featuring-yo.
Old School Day Party With A Purpose
Suit Up Charlotte hosts this event, with hors d’oeuvres, cocktails, and music by DJ Understandin. Proceeds will go to support, serve, and inspire men in transition. 2-6 p.m. $10. Carole Hoefener Center, 610 E. 7th St., eventbrite.com/e/its-an-old-school-day-party-with-a-purpose-tickets-10655427671.
Sip N Style Beauty Suite & Day Party (Friday and Saturday)
This day party will feature beauty services, food, drinks, music, and more. Presented by Vintage Beauty. 2-9 p.m. General admission, $20; VIP, $50. Four Points by Sheraton, 315 E. Woodlawn Ave., eventbrite.com/e/sip-n-style-day-party-tickets-10417935325.
[Night Events/Parties]
*CIAA Step Show Throwdown–Greeks vs. Greeks
Watch steppers from fraternities and sororities representing HBCUs from around the country compete for the grand prize. Hosted by Power 98's No Limit Larry. Presented by McDonald’s. Doors open 6 p.m.; show starts at 7:30 p.m. $30. Grady Cole Center, 310 N. Kings Dr., ciaastepshows.com.
*Pandemonium: CIAA Step Show After-Party
This is the CIAA’s official after-party. 10 p.m.-2 a.m. $15 and up in advance. Re:Public, 314 N. College St., ciaastepshows.com/afterparty.html.
SU!
Featuring the go-go sounds of Jus Once and hip hop and R&B from DJ Hollywood. Brought to you by BossMan Entertainment and the WSSU Alumni Association. 9 p.m.-2:30 a.m. $25 in advance; VIP admission, $50. Marriott City Center, 100 W. Trade St., bossmanentertainment.org.
I Love The 90s with DJ Jazzy Jeff
Music by the magnificent DJ Jazzy Jeff, and hosted by Skillz. Brought to you by The Sol Kitchen, Dynasty 5, and BestFriendz. 10 p.m.-2 a.m. General admission, $25 and up; VIP admission, $40 and up; VIP tables also available. Omni Hotel, 132 E. Trade St., iluvthe90s.eventbee.com.
The Black Pak Party
It’s a party for the “grown and sexy,” featuring Chicago house music DJ Boolumaster. 9 p.m.-2 a.m. $30. Extravaganza Depot, 1610 N. Tryon St., blackpakparty.com.
Queen City Omegas Breakfast Jam I
Party all night, then enjoy breakfast. Music by DJ 06. Brought to you by Queen City Omegas. 11 p.m.-6 a.m. $25 in advance; limited amount of VIP available. Omegas Fraternity House, 3301 Statesville Ave., piphiomegas.org.
Party with a Purpose
Come dressed to impress, walk the red carpet, and enjoy this night of partying to help a great cause. All proceeds will benefit A Child’s Place, which supports and raises awareness about child homelessness in the African-American community in Charlotte. Music by DJ Mark, and a photographer will be on hand. Ages 30 and older preferred. Brought to you by Rudy and Natalie Brown, Ramona Halloway, Dirty Eight Productions, and BLT Steak. 10 p.m.-3 a.m. $50 in advance; $60 at the door; private tables available. BLT Steak, at The Ritz-Carlton, 110 N. College St., achildsplace.org/partywithapurpose.
50 Shades of Blue Volume II
Sophisticated party revelers are encouraged to partake in this celebration as DJ C-Rob returns. Featuring a late-night menu, an array of specialty cocktails, and hors d’oeuvres. Brought to you by Dre Brown, James Rickmond, and Herb and Felicia Gray. 9 p.m.-2 a.m. $20 and up in advance. Blue Restaurant and Bar, 206 N. College St. (corner of 5th and College streets), bluefriday2014.eventbrite.com.
Old School Gathering
This is the sixth year for this event (formally known as South Meck. Gathering), and it will feature music by DJ Krazy, heavy hors d’oeuvres, a spades tournament, and door prizes. Brought to you by A Fat Boy Production. 9 p.m.-2 a.m. $20 in advance; $25 at the door. Rameses Temple, 4919 Beatties Ford Rd., afatboyproduction.com.
The Show with Doug E. Fresh
Party with one of hip hop’s greatest entertainers, Doug E. Fresh. 9 p.m.-2 a.m. $15 and up in advance; VIP tables available. Privilege Charlotte, 223 S. Brevard St., privilegecharlotte.com.
Friday Night Live 4
Be entertained by three DJs—DJ DeRon Juan of 102 Jamz; Heavy Hitters DJ Lonnie B., of Virginia; and DJ Crush Groovey, also of Virginia—on both levels of this bar. Brought to you by Eddietainment Inc. 10 p.m.-2 a.m. $15 and up in advance. BlackFinn, at EpiCentre, 210 E. Trade St., fnl4.eventbrite.com.
Ciroc Boyz Fourth Annual Celebrity Party
Hosted by Ciroc Boy Big Tigger, with music by DJ Self and DJ SNS, along with “startenders”/models Bernice Burgos and Elba Everlasting. 9 p.m.-3 a.m. $25 and up in advance. Whisky River, at EpiCentre, 210 E. Trade St., cirocboyz.eventbrite.com.
Grooving & Swinging Affair
Swing and groove cannot be explained, only experienced. Music by DJ Drako. Appetizers will be served along with a cash bar. Brought to you by Groove Phi Groove and Swing Phi Swing. 10 p.m.-2 a.m. $15. Carole Hoefner Community Centre, 610 E. Seventh St., groove-phi-groove.org.
The Epitome (Night)
Part of Brothers 4 Life Entertainment’s Tournament Weekend 2K14 lineup of five parties. Music by DJ Fatz. 9 p.m.-2 a.m. $20 in advance. Mortimer’s Café & Pub, at EpiCentre, 210 E. Trade St., b4life-ent.com.
Sound Of Applause
Join hosts Charlamagne Tha God of Power 105.1 FM in NYC, Black Linen Entertainment, and Sound 1 Production, with music by DJ Bro Rabb and DJ Frosty. Food and drink menus will be available. Brought to you by Eddietainment Inc. 9 p.m.-2 a.m. $15 in advance; VIP tables available. Vapiano, 201 S. Tryon St., soundofapplause.eventbrite.com.
Billionaires Boys Club with Diddy, Rick Ross, and Mary J. Blige
Three of music's biggest icons, Diddy, Rick Ross, and Mary J. Blige, will host this party. Brought to you by Kobe Jordan. 8 p.m.-3 a.m. $70 and up in advance; VIP tables available. QC LIVE Center, 8801 E. W.T. Harris Blvd., eventbrite.com/e/billionaires-boys-club-hosted-by-pdiddy-rick-ross-tickets-10382651791.
Love & Legends: Big Daddy Kane, Amina Buddafly, and Peter Gunz
Two levels of partying, featuring live performances by Amina Buddafly, Peter Gunz, and Big Daddy Kane. Also music by DJ Big Cutz and DJ Flemingo. Brought to you by Talk of the Town, DC Connection, LK & R&R Productions, and Dynasty 5. 10 p.m.-2:30 a.m. $30 in advance; VIP tables available. The Saloon, at NC Music Factory, 900 NC Music Factory Blvd., loveandlegends.eventbrite.com.
Welcome to the QC with R. Kelly
Come party with the King of R&B, who recently released his new album, Black Panties. 9 p.m.-2 a.m. $30 and up in advance; VIP tables available. Vanity Nightclub, 500 W. 5th St., vanitycharlotte.com.
Love, Hip Hop, and Money Baby with Jim Jones, Erica Mena, and K Camp
Pop champagne with rap star Jim Jones and Love & Hip Hop star Eric Mena. K Camp will perform live, including his single “Money Baby.” Brought to you by SouthCoast Marketing. 9 p.m.-2:15 a.m. General admission, $20 in advance; VIP admission, $40. Bubble Charlotte, at EpiCentre, 210 E. Trade St., bestfriendz.eventbrite.com.
Customer Appreciation Night
This is a night dedicated to the people—no lineups, no guest list, and no advanced tickets required. Drink specials all night and free giveaways at the door. DJ Shadow and DJ Big Shid will be spinning the best in old-school hip-hop and R&B. Brought to you by 1st Priority Entertainment. 9 p.m.-2 a.m. $10. Twilight Lounge, 7030 Smith Corners Blvd., facebook.com/1stPriorityEntertainment.
Fabolous Live
Come party with chart-topping rapper Fabolous, hosted by DJ Kyra Chaos and D’usse brand ambassador Mr. Rugs. Brought to you by Lou LV and Big Tex. 9 p.m.-2 a.m. $30 and up in advance; VIP tables available. Studio Movie Grill, at EpiCentre, 210 E. Trade St., smgfabolous.eventbrite.com.
Alpha 2 Omega IV
Music by the million-dollar DJ Tab D’Biassi. Presented by Aristocrats and Clawson Entertainment. 8 p.m.-2 a.m. $15-$20; VIP tables available. Dillinger's Taproom, 214 N. Tryon St., clawsonentertainment.wix.com/clawson-ent.
Su CASA Presents: The Grapes + Pancakes Party—A Prince Tribute
This monthly party series is offering a special tournament edition as an oasis from the typical “ratchetness.” And this time they’re celebrating the music of Prince. So along with their normal presentation of soul, house, Afrobeat, and other eclectic music, the DJs—DJ Justice and That Guy Smitty—will play a special midnight tribute to the “Purple Rain” icon. 9 p.m.-2 a.m. $10. Dharma Lounge, 1440 S. Tryon St., sucasacharlotte.wordpress.com.
Divas Night Out: The Black Hollywood Edition
The big party under the big tent returns, and this night will feature a live performance by Tamar Braxton, hosted by Morris Chestnut and Meagan Good. Brought to you by Digital Divas, Kam + Kam Entertainment, and Jigga Entertainment. 9 p.m.-3 a.m. General admission, $25 in advance; VIP admission, $40; VIP tables and cabanas also available. Oasis Party at The Tent, 514 N. College St. (between Eighth and Ninth streets), ez-tixx.com/divas-night-out-at-oasis.
Friday Night Live: Eighth Annual DMV Go-Go Takeover
Dance to music from D.C. go-go bands Vybe Band and Da Mixx. 10 p.m.-3 a.m. $40 in advance. Picasso’s Sports Café, 222 S. Church St., dmvgogotakeover2014.eventbrite.com.
Tournament Welcome Party
Experience upscale mayhem, with music by DJ Dime Piece of VH1’s “Master of the Mix.” Brought to you by IMM, TC Entertainment, and Harding Law. 9 p.m.-2 a.m. $20 and up in advance; VIP tables available. Cosmos Café Uptown, 300 N. College St., charlotteparties.com.
The Westin Experience (Friday)
Multiple DJs will play your favorites in hip hop, R&B, old-school, and reggae at this party that takes place on back-to-back nights. Brought to you by Velvet Enterprise and The A List. 9 p.m.-2 a.m. General admission, $30 in advance; VIP admission, $50; VIP tables available. The Westin Charlotte, 601 S. College St., avelvetlist.com.
Late-Night After-Party and Breakfast Part 1
In addition to all that partying you’re doing, fill up on this all-you-can-eat buffet of grits, eggs, salmon cake, fried fish, bacon, chicken wings, French toast, and more. 11:30 p.m.-5 a.m. $20 and up in advance. Vanity Nightclub, 500 W. 5th St., vanitycharlotte.com.
Tournament Takeover with DJ Whoo Kid
G-Unit DJ and Sirius XM star Whoo Kid will control the turntables, after an opening set by Power 98 FM’s DJ Ace. Brought to you by Sol Kitchen, Fab 5 Ent., and Prime Playboy Ent. 10 p.m.-2 a.m. $25 and up in advance; VIP tables available. X Nightclub, 950 NC Music Factory Blvd., tournamentakeover2014.eventbrite.com.
True School Party with DJ 9th Wonder
Grammy Award-winning producer and DJ 9th Wonder will inspire you with his play, along with sets by DJ Cuzzin’ B and DJ Face. Brought to you by Blue Goose, RoundTable, and Sol Kitchen. 10 p.m.-2 a.m. $20 and up in advance. Howl At The Moon, at EpiCentre, 210 E. Trade St., thesolkitchen.com/category/ciaa.
Rich Homie Quan Live
The “Type of Way” rapper will perform live. Brought to you by SouthCoast Marketing. 9 p.m.-2 a.m. General admission, $20 and up in advance; VIP admission, $75; VIP tables available. Suite, at EpiCentre, 210 E. Trade St., suiterichhomiequan.eventbrite.com.
Nelly + Draya + Kenny Burns: Welcome to Charlotte Party
The hip hop industry’s aficionados will party with these stars. Presented by AG Entertainment, Marc Barnes, and Sherod Promotions. 9 p.m.-3 a.m. General admission, $25 in advance; VIP admission, $50; VIP tables available. Sheraton Charlotte Hotel, 555 S. McDowell St., agentertainment.com.
Adieux: Friday Night Kickoff
Spend your Friday night among the social elite and fashionably dressed. Brought to you by A.C.T. Productions, InnerCircle, Forward Vision Group, and Culture 19. 10 p.m.-2:30 a.m. General admission, $20 and up in advance; VIP admission, $30 and up; VIP tables available. Enso Asian Bistro and Sushi Bar, at EpiCentre, 210 E. Trade St., adieuxenso.eventbrite.com.
Grown Folks Friday with DJ Red Alert
The NCCU Alumni Association invites you to party with a mature crowd to sounds provided by DJ Red Alert. Drink specials will be served. Ages 30 and older preferred. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the NCCU Scholarship Fund. 9 p.m.-2 a.m. $20 in advance. Shu Salon/Brief, 1426 S. Tryon St., nccucharlotte.org.
Grits & Biscuits Party – Charlotte Edition
Grits & Biscuits is the touring party for “folks who grew up in the South, got kinfolk from the South, went to school in the South, or just love Dirty South swag.” 9 p.m. Limited number of tickets available at the door. The Fillmore Charlotte, 1000 NC Music Factory Blvd., gritsandbiscuits.com.
Soul Food Friday
Come unwind and enjoy live jazz and inspiration featuring The Groovemasters, plus DJ Sire Sound. And be sure to order from the soul food menu. 6-9 p.m. $20 in advance. Celebs Restaurant, 445 W. Trade St., unwindproductions.com.
Tournament Welcome Party with DJ DimePiece
VH1 Master of the Mix contestant, the “Mixin Vixen,” DJ DimePiece will take over the turntables. 9 p.m.-2 a.m. $20. Cosmos Café Uptown, 300 N. College St., eventbrite.com/e/tournament-welcome-party-featuring-dj-dime-piece-tickets-10471024115.
T.I. and Rocko
Hailing from Atlanta, these two rap stars will come together in Charlotte. Presented by Sport E. Odie, Russell Payton, and The Gidewon Group. 9 p.m.-3 a.m. General admission, $40 in advance; VIP admission, $60; VIP tables available. Oak Room, 200 E. Bland St., iamsporteodie.com.
Customer Appreciation Night
DJ Shadow and DJ Big Shid will spin the best in old-school hip hop and R&B. Drink specials all night. Presented by 1st Priority Entertainment. 9 p.m.-2 a.m. $10. Twilight Lounge, 7030 Smith Corners Blvd., facebook.com/TwilightLounge.
Kevin Hart and Nicole Murphy
Box-office-topping actor and comedian Kevin Hart and model/reality TV star Nicole Murphy host this party, with music by DJ Biz Markie. 9 p.m.-2 a.m. General admission, $40; VIP admission, $80; VIP tables available. Urban Garden, One Bank of America Center, 150 N. College St., prophecyevents.com/ncinvasion.
Who Got Nexxt Tour 2014 with Freekey Zekey
DipSet member Freekey Zekey will host this talent showcase. 9 p.m.-2:30 a.m. General admission, $15 in advance; VIP admission, $30. The BLVD Wings, 3133 E. Independence Blvd., hhtvonline.com.
MADD Again Fridays Tournament Edition
Boss Management Group will showcase their artist Kyle Hype. There will also be music from Undertaker Sound, playing reggae, hip hop, and dancehall. Drink specials will be served. 10 p.m. Free admission. Apostrophe Lounge, 1440 S. Tryon St., bossmanagementgroupllc.com.
