Weekend Ahead: February 20-22

WATCH
Finally. The Oscars are here. Don’t you feel like we’ve been hearing the words “Oscar hype” for like twelve months straight? Now, obviously we are partial to the Oscars not so much for the fact that they celebrate the artistic side of film, but more for the pretty gowns. And the pretty people. Oh, and also the pretty jewelry. Which is why we’re going to Charlotte’s own Oscar party, Oscar Night America. Held at the Belk Theater and benefiting the Charlotte Symphony, this way you get to see all the pretty stuff in person and on screen. Not a bad way to spend a Sunday evening. Tickets are $75 and the party starts at 7 p.m. www.charlottesymphony.org

BE UNDEAD
It’s been forty years since famed director George A. Romero first screened his classic Night of the Living Dead. Now, The Light Factory and Reel Soul are celebrating that with the Midnight Dread party at Amos’ Southend on Saturday. Usually zombies aren’t really our thing, but we do love the chance to dress in costume and as it turns out, that’s just what this party offers. Romero will be hosting a screening of his film Diary of the Dead at midnight and you should be dressed in your most frightening zombie attire. The party starts at 9 p.m. (that gives you three hours to show off your gory, undead face before the screening) and tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at the door. www.zombiestakecharlotte.com

AFFIRM
If we’re going to be honest, both of us kind of tend to lean towards mainstream—and often pretty girly—music. (Jenn, in fact, has a not-so-secret total adoration of Mandy Moore. See what I mean?) So, you’re probably not going to find either of us hanging out at the Neighborhood Theatre tonight to hear Michael Franti and his band, Spearhead. However, if a blend of rock and reggae with lots of life affirming tunes and a little world peace promotion thrown in is your thing, then head to NoDa and rock on. Tickets range from $25 to $45. www.neighborhoodtheatre.com

CHEER
The Charlotte Bobcats are taking on the Orlando Magic tonight at 7 p.m. at Time Warner Cable Arena. Plus, it’s faith and family night. After the game there is an event featuring Will Graham, the grandson of evangelist Billy Graham, and a live performance by Christian rock band, BarlowGirl. Just consider this two events for the price of one. www.timewarnercablearena.com