Charlotte, NC

Charlotte is a city where Southern charm meets modern flair. Known as the Queen City, it’s a hub for entertainment, drawing crowds with its diverse array of events. From heart-pounding sports games to soul-stirring concerts and captivating theater performances, Charlotte’s event calendar is packed year-round. The city’s biggest venues—massive arenas, historic theaters, and open-air pavilions—set the stage for unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, there’s always something happening in Charlotte to spark your interest.

Let’s dive into the magic of Charlotte’s event scene, exploring the top venues and the kinds of events that make this city a cultural powerhouse.

Why Charlotte Shines as an Event Destination

Charlotte’s event landscape is as dynamic as its skyline. The city blends a rich history with a forward-thinking vibe, making it a magnet for performers, athletes, and artists. Uptown Charlotte, the city’s bustling core, is home to cultural landmarks like the Levine Museum of the New South and the NASCAR Hall of Fame, setting the tone for a city that celebrates both heritage and innovation. Beyond Uptown, neighborhoods like NoDa (North Davidson) and South End buzz with local music venues and artsy vibes, while massive arenas host global superstars. The city’s mild climate, especially in spring and fall, makes it ideal for outdoor festivals, while its indoor venues keep the energy high year-round.

Charlotte’s diversity fuels its event offerings. You’ll find everything from high-energy NFL games to intimate jazz performances, Broadway musicals to local craft beer festivals. The city’s venues, ranging from historic theaters to sprawling stadiums, cater to every taste, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re into cheering for the home team, dancing at a concert, or getting lost in a theatrical performance, Charlotte delivers. Let’s take a closer look at the biggest venues and the events that bring them to life.

Charlotte’s Premier Event Venues

Charlotte boasts an impressive lineup of venues, each with its own personality and purpose. These spaces host everything from sold-out concerts to championship games and award-winning theater productions. Here’s a rundown of the city’s biggest and most iconic venues.

Bank of America Stadium: The Heart of Sports and Mega Concerts

Capacity: 75,419

Located at 800 South Mint Street in Uptown, Bank of America Stadium is Charlotte’s crown jewel for massive events. Home to the NFL’s Carolina Panthers and Major League Soccer’s Charlotte FC, this stadium is a mecca for sports fans. The roar of the crowd during a Panthers game is electric, with tailgates and team spirit turning game days into citywide celebrations. Charlotte FC matches bring a different kind of energy, with soccer fans chanting and waving scarves in a sea of blue and white.

Beyond sports, Bank of America Stadium transforms into a concert venue for global superstars. In 2025, Kendrick Lamar and SZA sold out the stadium for their Grand National Tour, proving its draw for music fans. The venue also hosted the “Concert for the Carolinas” featuring Luke Combs, Eric Church, and James Taylor, a benefit for Hurricane Helene relief that showcased its ability to unite communities through music. With its massive capacity and state-of-the-art facilities, the stadium is perfect for events that demand scale and spectacle.

Spectrum Center: Where Sports and Entertainment Collide

Capacity: 20,200

Just a few blocks from Bank of America Stadium, Spectrum Center is Charlotte’s go-to for basketball and big-name concerts. As the home of the NBA’s Charlotte Hornets, it’s a hotspot for hoops fans, especially during high-stakes games against rivals. The arena has also hosted major events like the 2019 NBA All-Star Game and NCAA tournaments, cementing its status as a sports powerhouse.

When the court isn’t in use, Spectrum Center becomes a stage for chart-topping artists. Stars like Beyoncé, Taylor Swift, and Stevie Wonder have performed here, drawing thousands to its modern, fan-friendly space. The arena’s versatility makes it ideal for everything from pop extravaganzas to family-friendly shows like Disney on Ice. In 2025, the Spectrum Center celebrates its 20th anniversary as a cornerstone of Charlotte’s entertainment scene, with a packed schedule of concerts and games.

PNC Music Pavilion: Summer’s Outdoor Music Haven

Capacity: 18,745

Nestled near the University of North Carolina Charlotte, PNC Music Pavilion is the city’s premier outdoor concert venue. With covered seating and a sprawling lawn for general admission, it’s a favorite for summer concerts. Since opening in 1991 as the Blockbuster Pavilion, it’s hosted legends like Dave Matthews Band, Tim McGraw, and Jimmy Buffett, creating unforgettable nights under the stars.

PNC’s season peaks in the warmer months, when the venue comes alive with festivals and tours spanning rock, country, pop, and hip-hop. Its open-air setup and massive capacity make it perfect for laid-back vibes, where fans can spread out on blankets or dance in the pit. The pavilion’s reputation as a Charlotte staple ensures it’s a must-visit for music lovers.

Bojangles Coliseum: A Historic Hub for Sports and Shows

Capacity: 10,829

Bojangles Coliseum, located at 2700 E Independence Blvd, is one of Charlotte’s most historic venues. Opened in 1955 as the Charlotte Coliseum, it’s hosted everything from Elvis Presley’s final performance in 1977 to modern concerts by major artists. Today, it’s home to the Charlotte Checkers, the AHL affiliate of the NHL’s Carolina Hurricanes, making it a go-to for hockey fans.

The coliseum’s mid-sized capacity creates an intimate yet electric atmosphere for concerts and events. It’s hosted a range of performances, from rock bands to family shows, and its retro charm adds a unique vibe. The venue’s sister space, Ovens Auditorium, shares its address and complements its offerings with a focus on theater.

Ovens Auditorium: Charlotte’s Broadway Beacon

Capacity: 2,455

Right next to Bojangles Coliseum, Ovens Auditorium is a gem for theater lovers. Opened in 1955, it’s one of the top theater venues worldwide, ranking ninth for ticket sales in 2021. Known for hosting Broadway musicals like Wicked and 9 to 5 The Musical, it’s a hub for high-caliber productions. The Charlotte Ballet’s annual Nutcracker and performances by Opera Carolina and the Charlotte Symphony add to its cultural heft.

Ovens also welcomes a variety of performers, from Bob Dylan to Peppa Pig, making it a versatile space for both adults and families. Its intimate seating ensures every show feels personal, whether you’re watching a Tony Award-winning musical or a comedy special.

The Fillmore Charlotte: Intimate Vibes, Big Names

Capacity: ~2,000

Located in Uptown’s AvidXchange Music Factory, The Fillmore Charlotte is a fan favorite for its industrial-chic vibe and top-tier sound system. Housed in a converted textile mill, it’s inspired by the iconic Fillmore in San Francisco. Artists like B.B. King, Jason Mraz, and Foo Fighters have graced its stage, offering a standing-room-only experience that feels up-close and personal.

The Fillmore is perfect for fans who want to feel the music in their bones. Its general admission setup encourages dancing and mingling, while a second-floor balcony offers a great view. With a packed calendar of rock, pop, and hip-hop acts, it’s a cornerstone of Charlotte’s live music scene.

The Events That Define Charlotte

Charlotte’s venues come alive with a diverse lineup of events, from sports to concerts to theater. Here’s a closer look at the types of events you can expect and what makes them special.

Sports: Where Passion Meets Pride

Sports are the heartbeat of Charlotte’s event scene, with venues like Bank of America Stadium, Spectrum Center, and Bojangles Coliseum leading the charge. The Carolina Panthers draw massive crowds for NFL games, turning Uptown into a sea of black and blue jerseys. Game days are a citywide affair, with tailgates, watch parties, and the annual Fan Fest at Bank of America Stadium (like the one scheduled for August 2, 2025) showcasing team spirit.

Charlotte FC, the city’s MLS team, brings soccer fever to the same stadium. Matches are high-energy, with fans chanting and waving flags, creating a festival-like atmosphere. The Spectrum Center is the place for basketball, with the Charlotte Hornets delivering thrilling games and a chance to see NBA stars up close. Meanwhile, Bojangles Coliseum hosts the Charlotte Checkers, whose fast-paced hockey games are a hit with families and die-hard fans alike.

Beyond these major teams, Charlotte hosts events like the ACC and NCAA tournaments, showcasing college basketball talent. Smaller venues like Atrium Health Ballpark in nearby Kannapolis host minor-league baseball with the Kannapolis Cannon Ballers, offering affordable family fun.

Concerts: A Soundtrack for Every Taste

Charlotte’s music scene is as diverse as its population, with venues catering to every genre. Bank of America Stadium and Spectrum Center host the biggest names in music—think Kendrick Lamar, SZA, Beyoncé, and Taylor Swift. These mega-concerts are bucket-list experiences, with production values that rival any in the world.

PNC Music Pavilion shines in the summer, offering a laid-back setting for acts like Dave Matthews Band and Tim McGraw. Its lawn seating is perfect for picnics and dancing under the stars. For a more intimate experience, The Fillmore Charlotte and smaller venues like Neighborhood Theatre and Amos’ Southend deliver. Neighborhood Theatre, in the artsy NoDa district, hosts local and national acts like Scythian and Yonder Mountain String Band, perfect for discovering new music. Amos’ Southend, with its large dance floor, has welcomed artists like The Roots and John Mayer, making it a South End staple.

For jazz lovers, Middle C Jazz in Uptown is a must-visit. Opened in 2019, it offers a cozy 200-seat space with a full bar and a packed schedule of regional and national jazz artists. Country fans flock to Coyote Joe’s, a lively bar with a dance floor and performances by stars like Luke Combs and Kane Brown. Smaller venues like The Evening Muse and Snug Harbor in Plaza Midwood showcase local talent, adding a grassroots vibe to Charlotte’s music scene.

Theater: Broadway and Beyond

Charlotte’s theater scene is a cultural treasure, with Ovens Auditorium leading the way. Broadway hits like Wicked, The Lion King, and 9 to 5 The Musical draw crowds with their dazzling sets and award-winning performances. The Charlotte Ballet’s Nutcracker is a holiday tradition, enchanting audiences with its timeless magic. Opera Carolina and the Charlotte Symphony also call Ovens home, offering classical performances that resonate with arts lovers.

For more intimate theater, Booth Playhouse in Uptown (capacity: 436) hosts smaller productions, from plays to comedy shows. The city’s theater scene extends to community venues like the Visulite Theatre, which blends live music with occasional theatrical performances, creating a unique experience in the Elizabeth neighborhood.

Festivals and Community Events

Charlotte’s event calendar bursts with festivals and community gatherings. The U.S. National Whitewater Center hosts outdoor festivals like the Tuck Fest, blending live music, adventure sports, and craft beer. NoDa and South End are hotspots for local events, with art crawls, food truck rallies, and craft beer festivals drawing crowds. The Charlotte Events Calendar highlights seasonal festivals, from holiday markets to cultural celebrations like the Charlotte Pride Festival.

Speed dating events, yoga sessions, and DJ-led parties like “Summer Symphony” add variety to the scene, often hosted at smaller venues like STATS Charlotte or the OrthoCarolina Sportsplex. These events reflect Charlotte’s knack for blending fun with community spirit, making it easy to connect with locals and visitors alike.

What Makes Charlotte’s Events Special

Charlotte’s events stand out because they reflect the city’s personality: warm, welcoming, and endlessly diverse. The venues themselves are part of the magic. Bank of America Stadium’s roar feels like the pulse of the city, while Ovens Auditorium’s history adds depth to every performance. Smaller spots like The Fillmore and Middle C Jazz offer intimacy that larger cities often lack, letting you feel close to the action.

The city’s fans are another key ingredient. Whether it’s Panthers supporters tailgating, concertgoers dancing at PNC Music Pavilion, or theater buffs applauding at Ovens, Charlotte’s crowds bring passion and energy. The mix of Southern hospitality and urban excitement creates an atmosphere where everyone feels at home.

Seasonal rhythms also shape Charlotte’s event scene. Spring and fall are prime for outdoor events at PNC Music Pavilion and the Whitewater Center, while winter brings holiday shows like The Nutcracker and indoor concerts at Spectrum Center. Summer is festival season, with music, food, and cultural events popping up across the city. No matter the time of year, Charlotte’s venues keep the calendar full.

Tips for Enjoying Events in Charlotte

To make the most of Charlotte’s events, a little planning goes a long way. Here are some tips to elevate your experience:

• Buy Tickets Early: Popular events at Bank of America Stadium, Spectrum Center, and PNC Music Pavilion often sell out. Check platforms like Ticketmaster, Bandsintown, or SeatGeek for tickets and seating charts.

• Explore Smaller Venues: Neighborhood Theatre, Amos’ Southend, and The Evening Muse offer unique experiences with lower ticket prices. They’re great for discovering new artists or enjoying a more intimate setting.

• Check the Charlotte Events Calendar: Websites like charlotte.events and Eventbrite list upcoming concerts, festivals, and community events, helping you stay in the loop.

• Plan for Parking and Transit: Large venues like Bank of America Stadium and PNC Music Pavilion offer VIP parking options, but public transit like the LYNX light rail can be a stress-free alternative for Uptown events.

• Embrace the Neighborhoods: Pair your event with a visit to NoDa or South End for pre-show dining or post-show drinks. These areas are packed with breweries, restaurants, and bars that add to the experience.

Looking Ahead: Charlotte’s Event Future

As Charlotte grows, its event scene is only getting bigger and bolder. New venues and expansions are on the horizon, and the city’s reputation as a cultural hub continues to soar. In 2025, expect more blockbuster concerts at Bank of America Stadium and Spectrum Center, with artists like Kendrick Lamar setting the tone. The Charlotte Checkers and Charlotte FC will keep sports fans buzzing, while Ovens Auditorium’s Broadway lineup promises more award-winning shows.

The city’s commitment to community events, from festivals at the Whitewater Center to local showcases at Snug Harbor, ensures there’s always something new to discover. Charlotte’s blend of big-ticket events and grassroots gatherings makes it a city where every night holds the promise of something special.

Final Thoughts

Charlotte, NC, is a city that knows how to put on a show. Its biggest venues—Bank of America Stadium, Spectrum Center, PNC Music Pavilion, Bojangles Coliseum, Ovens Auditorium, and The Fillmore—host a dazzling array of sports, concerts, and theater performances. From the roar of a Panthers game to the magic of a Broadway musical, these spaces bring people together to celebrate, cheer, and connect. Smaller venues like Neighborhood Theatre and Middle C Jazz add a personal touch, showcasing local talent and niche genres.

Whether you’re a sports fanatic, a music lover, or a theater buff, Charlotte has an event for you. The city’s vibrant neighborhoods, passionate fans, and diverse calendar make every visit unforgettable. So grab your tickets, explore the Queen City, and dive into the events that make Charlotte shine.