CHARLOTTE, N.C. (WBTV) - The PGA Championship returns to Quail Hollow and the Cheerwine Festival turns the town red.
9 things to do in Charlotte this weekend is part of our new newsletter The Go Guide! Every week, get the scoop on the latest events and happenings around Charlotte right in your inbox. To subscribe, make sure to check “The Go Guide” in our newsletter page.
Here’s a list of things to do the weekend of May 16-18, 2025:
PGA Championship (Quail Hollow Club), through Sunday: It’s one of the biggest weeks in golf and it’s right here in Charlotte. It’s been eight years since the PGA Championship was last here and this time around, it promises to be a bigger and better event with over 200,000 expected attendees. All tickets are all-inclusive with select food and non-alcoholic beverages included with admission.
Japan Fest (Urban District Market), Saturday & Sunday 11:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.: Get a taste of Tokyo without a passport. Head to the Urban District Market for the second annual Japan Fest featuring delicious bites, drinks and games. Enjoy traditional performances and demonstrations like aikido, taiko drums and more. Sing your heart out for prizes at the karaoke contest or dress your best for the cosplay contest. Admission is free.
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Charlotte Asian & Dragon Boat Festivals (Ramsey Creek Park Lake Norman), Saturday 7:30 a.m.: Enjoy two cultural festivals in one. Thousands of people from all cultures will come together to celebrate the Asian community in the Carolinas. Wake up early for the Dragon Boat Festival to catch over 40 teams racing along Lake Norman with the first race at 8:24 a.m. The Charlotte Asian Festival officially kicks off at 10:45 a.m. with a special opening celebration. Head to the cultural showcase where you can find demonstrations, calligraphy, henna, games, wellness booth, interactive activities and more. Enjoy delicious cuisine from cultures around the world and shop the vendor market for gifts you won’t need a passport for. Admission is free.
Pineville Arts in the Park (Pineville Lake Park), Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.: Let your creativity soar with a festival all about showcasing the talent of our community. You’ll find over 70 local crafters, artisans and designers participating in the annual art fair. You’ll also find a variety of food trucks, an art show for the kids, live music and more. Admission is free.
Cheerwine Festival (Downtown Salisbury), Saturday 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.: Take a sip and a bite out of the iconic ruby red cherry drink with a festival celebrating all things Cheerwine. Thousands of fans will flock to Salisbury to try Cheerwine-inspired beer, food and crafts. This year’s headliners include Caroline Keller Band, Liam Pendergrass Trio, the Next Level Band and the Boy Band Review. Admission is free.
Beer, Bourbon & BBQ Festival (Ballantyne’s Backyard), Saturday 12 to 6 p.m.: Follow that sweet and smoky smell for some of the best barbeque in town. Pitmasters from around the state are slinging up big and bold flavors. Wash it all down with all-you-care-to-taste samples of the finest bourbons and beer. Your ticket includes a souvenir glass, plus live music and seminars. General admission starts at $45. Proceeds benefit Spirit of Hope Children’s Foundation.
Festa Italiana (Gateway Village), Saturday 1 to 6 p.m.: Say ciao, Charlotte! Uptown’s premiere Italian food and wine festival returns for its 20th annual feast. From antipasti to fresh brick oven pizza, to the famous 4-foot seafood risotto, enjoy a culinary adventure without having to bust out your passport. General admission starts at $125 and includes food, drinks and entertainment. Proceeds benefit the Nevins Inc., supporting individuals with developmental disabilities in Mecklenburg County.
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Charlotte Brunch Festival (University Place Boardwalk), Saturday 1 p.m.: Mimosa lovers unite! The Charlotte Brunch Festival is back for its sixth year of bubbles and breakfast. From over-the-top pancakes to surprising twists on eggs, try something new at this gourmet brunch extravaganza. 21 and over only.
Have an event you want to submit? I’m always looking for things to do around Charlotte. Send me your event to Carmichael.Cruz@WBTV.com.
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