What To Do In Charlotte This Month: October 2025
The best things to do and see
It’s festival season in Charlotte. Here’s a sample of ones to check out this month in and around the Queen City.
FabFest: Charlotte’s Beatles Festival
Oct. 3-4
When John Tosco was a kid, he’d “strum” a cardboard guitar and lip-synch to “She Loves You.” The fascination led him to found Tosco Music Parties, running for 35 years, and the annual FabFest, a tribute to the four lads who shook the world. It starts with a tribute show at the Knight Theater at 7:30 p.m. Friday, followed by a free celebration from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday with tribute bands, guest speakers, and memorabilia; that’s at the Parr Center at Central Piedmont Community College, 1201 Elizabeth Ave. Tickets for the Friday concert range from $22.50 to $56.50.
Autumn Jubilee
Oct. 4-5
It’s Rowan County’s main fall festival, a free, family-friendly event that draws 40,000 for the craft vendors, live music, food, and children’s activities. Parking and some activities may have a small fee. Pets are not allowed, and neither is alcohol or tobacco use. Dan Nicholas Park, 6800 Bringle Ferry Road.
32nd Annual Carolina Renaissance Festival & Artisan Marketplace
Oct. 4-Nov. 23
Every fall weekend, the 25-acre “Village of Fairhaven” comes alive in an approximation of a 16th-century European village: castles, cottages, kitchens, and pubs. Among them frolic guests, many in costumes, who take in musical, comedy, and theatrical performances food (including turkey drumsticks) and drink, handmade arts and crafts, games, rides, and demonstrations by artisans. Ticket prices start at $37.99 for adults, $23.99 for children; kids 4 and younger get in free. 16445 Poplar Tent Road, Huntersville.
Pineville Fall Fest
Oct. 16-18
Enjoy a carnival, food vendors, live music, and a Saturday parade. The free festival begins Thursday evening, continues through Saturday night, and culminates in a fireworks display. Admission is free; fees apply for rides and food. Jack D. Hughes Park, 513 Main St.
Carolina BalloonFest
Oct. 17-19
This venerable event—organizers claim it’s the second-oldest hot air balloon festival in the country—features hot air balloon launches, tethered rides, music, wine and beer vendors, and family activities. Launches depend on weather, of course; they happen in early morning and late afternoon. Ticket prices vary depending on the day; weekend passes are $50 for adults, $25 for children. The festival offers free off-site parking with complimentary shuttle service. 531 Old Airport Road, Statesville.
Fort Mill Fall Festival
Saturday, Oct. 18
Indulge in live entertainment, food trucks, crafts, and children’s activities. Admission is free. Limited parking is available near the park. Walter Elisha Park, 345 N. White St., Fort Mill.
NC Liver Mush Festival: Mush, Music & Mutts
Saturday, Oct. 18
Liver mush is one of this state’s signature foods: pig liver (and other parts), plus cornmeal and seasonings, sliced, fried, and usually served for breakfast. This annual festival, held every year since 1985, celebrates the traditional dish with music, local vendors, and a pet costume contest. Food tastings and cooking demos are part of the program. Admission is free. Activities are suitable for all ages, and pets on leashes are welcome. Uptown Shelby, 118 S. Washington St.
K-Fest
Saturday, Oct. 25
It’s the second edition of the Korean cultural festival at Urban District Market, an Optimist Park development with several Asian eateries—including Seoul Food Meat Co., the host. You’ll see K-pop performances, Korean food, dance contests, and local vendors. The event is outdoors and spans most of the afternoon and evening. General admission is free. Schedule subject to change. 421 E. 26th St.
Halloween Daze and Spooky Knights
Oct. 25-26
This is the All Hallow’s Eve-themed RenFest weekend, with trick-or-treating, costume contests, and themed shows as the regular jousting and merriment continues on the site. Tickets: $32 for adults, $20 for children 5–12, and free for ages 4 and younger. Children in costume receive a discount at the gate.
